Generosity shines through the windows at St. Paul
by Angie Asam Staff Writer
Generosity, the willingness to give money, help or time freely is also defined as nobility of character. Some noble and generous people have certainly stepped forward to add some major character into St. Paul Catholic Church for years to come.
Rev. Peter Eke recognized that effort both in the parish bulletin over the weekend and in his spoken word. “Thank you, thank you, thank you! You outdid yourselves and completed an incredible project. It is a blessing that we have many talented and dedicated volunteers at St. Paul of Onaway. Due to the generosity of our parish family, both parishioners and non-parishioners, our 17 large windows and 23 small windows are restored,” said Eke.
On Memorial Day weekend of 2009 the window restoration committee was formed and set out with a goal of completing the restoration in 10 years. Not only have they accomplished their goal, but did it in just over three years for one reason, the generous support shown for the project.
“The dollars, given with loving hearts, tossed in the collection basket, kind benefactor’s large donations and monies earned after countless hours of fund raising enabled us to reach our goal in far less time than we ever could have imagined,” stated Eke.
The Altar Society, Knights of Columbus and their spouses were a work force that took on the task raising $122,176, working hand in hand with the restoration committee. Members of the committee are Barb Ellenberger, Sandy Breed, Sharyl Leonard, Mike O’Meara, Mary Osantowski, Ryan Howell, Don Libby, Dave Tesmer and Sally Schaar.
“Each member brought something special to the table, but most of all – devotion and a tremendous love of St. Paul Parish. We appreciate all your good works and we pray you all work with the same zeal and love in your new task as Restoration Committee Members,” said Eke.
Three of the restored windows will have name plates placed on them. A large plaque will also be placed in the vestibule with the names of memorials and large donations.
“Each window contains a story of faith and we all have our favorites. Soon the hunters will be visiting and look to St. Hubert. The ladies who constantly share their hospitality love St. Martha. And St. Patrick can bring tears and smiles to the sentimental Celtic folk. St. Peter and St. Paul were the last to come home and somehow that seems right too, what a finale,” said Eke.
A benefactor who chose to remain anonymous paid for the restoration of St. Peter’s window in honor of Rev. Eke. St. Peter and St. Paul were the final two windows returned to the parish and are located in the balcony above the church, watching over the entire parish community.
In addition to recognizing those directly involved with the restoration project, Eke did not want to leave out the rest of his generous and faithful parish. “To the entire parish community, it is very important that each one should know that you are very much appreciated. Without you the task would have been difficult. Without your unbelievable contributions, time and treasures, the window project would not have been completed within three years. All contribution counts, all sweat is pressure and all gifts are priceless,” said Eke.
Through fund raisers from pig roasts, auctions, raffles and countless other events the parish and community have accomplished something to be proud of because of one thing, their generosity.
“The project is completed, and it leaves a lasting impression on this parish and leaves behind a beautiful place for many generations,” said Eke.
THE RESORATION Committee’s efforts are not completed, however, as there is a major problem that needs attention as well.
“In order to safeguard St. Paul’s beautiful edifice for many generations of Catholics. We have been made aware that pools of water will appear on the floor of the cry roo
Fallen plaster appears on the stairway to the choir loft following a storm as well. The building was inspected and it appears that the deterioration of mortar joints, brick work and the lack of adequate drainage around windows is causing the problem. Water damage has been found around brick, block and mortar joints in the belfry as well.
Thus, the restoration committee will continue to raise money and hope for generous support as they look to repair those problems to solidify the structure they have worked so hard to uphold for the future generations as well.
In a time that the economy is down and people are struggling, the kind-hearted generosity shown by the parish community at St. Paul Catholic Church enabled some of the greatest characters in the Bible to be restored and replaced, shining over the parish for many years to come. When the sun shines in the windows the saints are beaming their support down on the church.