First Presbyterian Church

At the time, all services were conducted in welsh by the Rev. William Morgan, pastor of Baptist churches in Pottsville and five points (on the road to new Philadelphia), who walked to his three charges. This church was located at 23 South Front Street (next to the Wagner residence).

However, by 1870 a large number of English speaking immigrants desired their own services. In that year a Sunday school at 9 a.m. Was started under the Rev. A. H. Sembower, pastor of the first Baptist church of Pottsville, and lay leader Sanford Morgan.

On Feb. 16, 1871, the English element organized its own parish as part of the Pottsville charge and named it the First English Baptist Church of Saint Clair. At first, services were held in the so-called Greek schoolhouse on north Front Street, near the church's present location.

The original church of frame construction was dedicated on Dec. 31, 1871, on the present site. The name of the church was later changed to Bethlehem Baptist church. By 1910, the existing building was considered inadequate. With $500 bequeathed by William Waters and additional adjoining land donated by Ann Griffith, plans for a new church were started.

The present brick building was erected at a cost of $18,000. The cornerstone was laid in 1911 and dedication services were held on December. 15, 1912.

The Rev. T. D. Morris was appointed pastor of the church on February. 1, 1914, and served for 30 years.

In the early 1920's the few remaining members of the Welsh Baptist church transferred their membership to the English church.

The church continues to worship God and celebrate their welsh heritage with an annual welsh hymn sing held in the spring of the year.

First Presbyterian Church

120 North Mill Street

The Reverend Elmer Davis

In 1905, Lehigh Presbytery invited The Rev Joseph Kohout from Kansas City, Kansas to serve the twelve families of "Slovak Calvins" that Michael Ondik had gathered a few years, earlier in St. Clair, Pennsylvania. Pastor Kohout did missionary work among the Slovak families of the Reformed and Lutheran Traditions. In 1910, Pastor Kohout left the area, the same year that George Bardarik, a future pastor, entered training for the ministry.

Miss Stella Horak and Mr. Frank Sintak carried on the work, but it was Miss Horak's work with children that, to a large degree, kept the Slovak families of the Calvinistic tradition together. By 1916, Miss Horak left the field, and about 1919 Rev. Sintak accepted the call of a Bohemian Church "Somewhere in the West".

On May 20, 1920, Lehigh Presbytery invited the Rev. George Bardarik to take over the work. From the start he was well received. The early prayer services were held in the homes of Paul Botto and Michael Maksim. In September of 1920 the congregation rented an old Welsh Baptist Church building for all services. The Congregation was organized in May of 1921. The next month the church was structured, and the officers elected. . In 1932, the church bought the land on which the present Church building and manse were constructed, and dedicated on September 18, 1933. The entire costs were $30,000. The congregation by 1945 paid off an indebtedness of $14,000.

Pastor Bardarik served the church well until he moved on to a new call in 1949. At that time there were 107 active members, 60 young persons in the Christian Endeavor, and a large Sunday School. When World War II broke out the membership reached 150. At this time there were three worship services each Sunday to accommodate the bilingual congregation, a large Sunday School attendance, and about 60 young people in an early evening Christian Endeavor. However, during World War H, when many young persons entered military services, and others left the area for available jobs elsewhere, there was a sharp decline in membership.

Like most churches of the area, the congregation did not recover from the exodus of so many of its youth. With the deaths of the immigrant generation over the years the membership continued to decline. At present the active membership is less than 30, but this loyal group worships regularly at 9: 00 a.m. each Sunday, and maintains the properties of church and manse.

Most interesting, for this congregation, has been its vocational choices. The immigrant generation heads of households took whatever jobs they could get, principally in the mines of the area. The second generation saw most of its men and women seek skilled work in a wider area reaching to Harrisburg, Reading and the Lehigh Valley, The third and fourth generations have sought advancement through education. As a result, at one time, the current pastor could count many young persons with Bachelor of Science and Bachelor of Arts Degrees, several Master Degrees and even a couple of Doctoral degrees. Unfortunately, for employment, most of these had to locate all over the United States, further decreasing the church's opportunity to regain its lost membership.

First Primitive Methodist Church

115 North Mill Street

The Reverend Donald Keller

The First Primitive Methodist church in Saint Clair was the very first church in Saint Clair and the first organized Primitive Methodist Church in Schuylkill County. It has been around for 168 years. Not only is it the oldest church in Saint Clair, but also it is the only church that can boast having one of the founders of its denominational life among its former ministry.

Missionaries sent from England began primitive Methodism in America in 1829. A layman, Edmund Heapes, of Patterson, New Jersey, visited the area and is give credit for beginning the work in Saint Clair. Meetings were held in private homes until the fall of 1831 when the group secured the use of the schoolhouse located in the Saint Clair Borough Cemetery. Hugh Borne, founder of Primitive Methodism, visited America around the year 1845 and ministered from the pulpit in Saint Clair for quite a time The first church building was planned for and erected in 1847 while the Rev. Alexander Miller was pastor at a cost of $2,000. It was a frame building located on the present site. The land for the church was partially donated, and then one-half of the lot was sold to William Yoe for $100, which was the purchase price for the entire lot. As a further item of sale, Mr. Yoe agreed that if he sold any section of his purchase for any amount over $100, the surplus shall be returned to the church society.

The work continued under Rev. Alexander Miller and the organization was chartered December 14, 1848 with the following charter members: John Bamford, John Bates, Philip Lewis, Mary Lewis, Maria Jackson, Mary Fox, Elizabeth Taylor, William Gehering, Ellen Jones, Elizabeth Turner, William Kay and William and Martha Williams.

Progress of the church was steady until during the ministry of Rev. Charles Spurr in 1864, a parsonage located on North Nicholas Street was purchased for $700.

In 1868, Rev. S. Horwell came, and during his pastorate in 1875, the present church building was erected. At this time, mine workings under the church settled, causing the old building to be damaged and was rendered unsafe for worship. The old building was torn down and a new frame church was built. When completed the church cost about $7,500. It was on September 12, 1876 the church was formally dedicated to the worship of God with the cornerstone being laid with Masonic ceremonies, with the Rev. J. W. Read in charge and the Rev. Joseph Odell preaching the sermon. The debt remained on the new church and was Finally liquidated in 1899 during the ministry of Rev. W.H. Acornley.

About the turn of the century working conditions became poor in Saint Clair area and the church had its most difficult period. For a decade the industrial conditions had a great influence on the church, the membership was so depleted and the faith of the few who were left became shaken until the society voted to request the Annual Conference, held at Mount Carmel in 1912 to disband the work and to dispose of the property. The Conference, however, did not agree to the proposal and instead sent the Rev. Thomas E. Jones to the church instead.

Arriving in the field in 1912, Rev. Jones being a tireless worker with a firm faith and convictions rallied to the forces to work, the tide turned and gradually the work has grown until it became one of the strongest congregations among the Protestant churches in Saint Clair. Upon his arrival $600 was spent to electrify and paint the sanctuary. In 1914 art glass windows were added and a steam heating plant installed.

In 1920, during the pastorate of the Rev. John Stephens, the old parsonage on Nicholas Street was sold and in 1921 a new parsonage was built on the adjoining property, north of the church at a cost of $13,000. In 1925 a tower was built to beautify the front of the church. The first organ was purchased in 1940-42 under the ministry of Dr. Richard Owens

In 1951, Rev. Heller came to Saint Clair. He served the church for 10 years, one of the longest terms of service for the 47 ministers who have served the church. From 1951 to 1961 many improvements were made to the church. A new furnace, new churches lights, remodeling of the sanctuary walls and alter area were made. The mortgage burning ceremony took place during the 125th Anniversary Sunday morning service in 1956.

In 1963 property next to the parsonage was purchased, the building was torn down to build a much needed parking lot.

Between 1974-1978 the Department of Labor and industry put legal restrictions on the church due to fire regulations. Thanks to the estate of George Carl renovations of $70,000 were completed to bring the whole building up to State specifications. Between 1980-81 the outside of the church received a face-lift with aluminum siding and stone facing.

The church celebrated its 150^th (Sesquicentennial) Anniversary in 1981. In all there have been forty-nine ministers serving the church and local community. Another long-time minister was Rev. George Kropp, who served here for approximately 15 years ending in June of 1999.

Holy Apostles Episcopal Church

Nichols & Hancock Streets

The Reverend James Smith

The Reverend Thomas A. Starkey who first held services at the Lawton Mansion, Super’s Hall and the Front Street School building organized Holy Apostles Episcopal Church in 1847. On July 7, 1854 the Rector, Wardens and Vestrymen purchased lot 198 and 199, situated on the comer of Nichols and Hancock Streets from Abram Hart, his wife Rebecca C., Elizabeth C. Baird from Philadelphia and Henry C. Carey from Burlington, New Jersey for the sum of $300.00. The Reverend Daniel Washburn of Pottsville laid the cornerstone of the present church October 8, 1854.

The first vestry was organized October 8, 1847 in the home of Charles Lawton. The first choir was organized in 1857. In 1858, the parishioners raised enough money to have a choir gallery constructed in the church. A committee on music was formed in 1887 and the first vested choir organized shortly thereafter. In 1903 the first choir stalls were placed in the church. In 1906 or 1907 a pipe organ was installed. The present Austen pipe organ was dedicated in 1927.

Other improvements to the structure were made in 1860 when a schoolroom was added. The rectory was constructed in the late 1860's being enlarged in 1827.

By 1930 a large renovation project took place. The interior of the church had been redecorated, the Parish House had been improved, with an enlarged and modernized stage, and the whole interior redecorated and repainted. The church property, including the rectory had been painted and the heating plant thoroughly renovated.

In more recent years, with the decline of Episcopalians in the county, on December 22, 1971 the North Parish, consisting of Holy Apostles, Christ Church in Frackville, St. Paul's in Minersville and St. John's in Ashland was formed.

In 1978, the bellows on the pipe organ required major repairs. It was at this time that a group of interested parishioners formed the Good Shepherd Guild. Many improvements to the church have been made. This organization continues today.

In March 2000, The Reverend James Smith, a Saint Clair native, was ordained into the priesthood and serves North Parish, as it's rector. We have an active Sunday school with ages varying from 2 to IO years of age. The Sunday school sponsors various Outreach projects throughout the year. Some of these projects include: collecting new and used clothing and donating then to a local women's shelter; participating in Super Bowl Sunday which includes collecting money and can goods for a local soup kitchen; sending cards to local Veteran' s Hospitals to remind Veterans they are not forgotten and collecting pet food, supplies and money for the Hillside S.P.C.A. as a "Make a Difference Day" project.

This past year we were honored to be a part of Saint Clair's Sesquicentennial Celebration. Many meetings were held in the Parish House and we were part of the Family Day Picnic and the Tour of the Churches.

Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church

254 North Mill Street

The Reverend John Wysozhanski

Our founding fathers emigrated from the most part from that territory of the Ukraine, then part of the Austrian-Hungarian empire known as Lemkivschina.

On February 2, 1922 a lot with an existing frame home on North Mill Street was purchased by a group of founding fathers. This was done in spite of the disastrous coal strike of 1922. Many of these founders were unemployed, without the benefit of today's unemployment compensation or strike benefits, yet they went ahead with their plans. Being thrifty and practical rather than demolishing the building they decided to move it to the rear of the lot, where it now stands, and utilize the facilities as a temporary chapel and rectory. Because of the strike, manpower was readily available and by utilizing a system of rollers, the structure was moved to its present location. The men of the parish then set out to dig, by hand, the basement and helped put in the solid basement foundation.

The first Pastor, Fr. Jaroslav Skrosty, conducted Divine Liturgy and other religious services. Having a background in architecture, Fr. Skrotsky drew up the plans for the structural design of the church, which, at that time, cost $80,000. It was one of the first buildings in St. Clair to have a steel superstructure.

Originally this church was named St. John the Baptist Ukrainian Catholic Church. 1944 was a time of reorganization for this church and it was then placed under the patronage of the Most Holy Trinity.

Many clergy and religious call this their home parish. Among these is the late beloved Bishop, the Most Reverend John Stock, D.D. who was ordained in December of 1948. He served as the representative of the Ukrainian refugee committee in Western Europe fro 1946 until 1952. He was consecrated as Bishop in 1971.

Another son of the Parish, Peter Skincosky, was ordained a priest of God in June 1947. He was an instructor at St. Basil’s Seminary in Stamford, Conn. Later he was elevated to Monsignor and became rector of St. Basil’s Seminary.

Two daughters of the Parish also entered the religious light. Sister Evelyn Stock and Sister Zachary Kuzio.

Presently Fr. John Wysochansky, who came to us in 1988, ably administers our parish..

Immaculate Conception Roman Catholic Church

Caroline Avenue – Diener’s Hill

The Reverend Paul E. Masiar

It was in the 1870's that the Slovaks began to migrate to the United States from their homeland. They settled in different parts of the country. Schuylkill County was one of those parts situated in the rich coalfields of Pennsylvania.

In the early 1900's a priest by the name of Rev. Peter H. Schaaf a native of St. Clair, was acquainted with the local Slovaks. He was assistant rector of St. Joseph's Church, Jim Thorpe. It was under his guidance that plans for a parish was formulated.

Mrs. Mary Dormer sold the land at the southeastern end of town to Archbishop Patrick John Ryan. The property was known as Dormers Place was atop a high hill and was the perfect setting for a church. A dance hall on the property was remodeled and became St. Mary's Slovak Church.

The first mass was celebrated July 22, 1904. The Rev. John Stanek was the parish's first resident pastor. This improvised church was used for services while the brick edifice was being constructed.

In 1905, Archbishop Ryan gave the parish its name, The Immaculate Conception.

On Thanksgiving Day, November 27, 1913 the new church was dedicated. It was brick of the Gothic style of architecture and cost $25,000. The tower was equipped with a peal of bells that added to the majesty of this cathedral like church.

Unfortunately, structural defects developed to such an extent that in 1921, the church was condemned for use. For 8 years services were held in the frame building used prior to the construction of the brick church.

On July 27, 1930 the rededication of the present church building took place. Not only had the church been rebuilt, but also the entire parish property was landscaped. Later a pipe organ was installed by Mudler- Hunter Co. of Philadelphia at the cost of $1,100.

Stained glass windows costing $l stained $85 each and statuary costing $55 each were donated by various parishioners.

Depicted in the stained glass windows are; St. Andrew, Christ in Gethesame, St. Gabriel, St. Bernard, Holy Family, Resurrection, St. Joseph, Annunciation, Sts.Cyril and Methodius.

Statuary include: St. Joseph, St. Francis, St. Stephen, St. Philip, Guardian Angel, St. John the Baptist, St. Andrew, St. Barbara, St. Anthony, The Little Flower Pieta.

Through the efforts of dedicated pastors and loyal parishioners the church has been maintained well over the years.

In 1950 Mr. and Mrs. John Sninsky donated the beautiful outdoor grotto. A small chapel has been built in the basement of the main church. It is used for daily masses during the winter months.

The present pastor, Father Masiar is responsible for the replacement of the windows, Chalice and Host, in the Pieta area and in the choir loft, the Musical Symbols, St. Catharine of Siena, St. Cecilia, St. Anne, and St. Elizabeth.

Father Masiar also had all the old trees removed from the front hillside and had shrubbery planted in they’re places as well as having the grounds landscaped.

This magnificent church and its lovely grounds are one you will not want to miss on your tour of the churches

Saint Boniface Roman Catholic Church

Nichols and Lawton Streets

The Reverend Kevin Gallagher

A parish history terms Saint Boniface church the mother of the Roman Catholic Parishes in the anthracite mining town, since at the time of its founding under the auspices of the German Catholic settlers and for many years after, this parish administered the faith to all Catholics of the town and immediate environment.

After giving permission in 1852 for the church to be built in Saint Clair, Bishop Neumann (now St. John Neumann) wrote to a friend in Europe, Rev. Herman Dichtl, that he thanked God for his rich blessings upon the efforts of Fr. Dichtl on behalf of the Diocese.

The Rev. Wencelaus John Repis, who was working among the miners of Saint Clair, became the first pastor of Saint Boniface Church, which was blessed by Bishop Neumann October 30, 1853 at which time he administered the sacrament of confirmation to 43 persons. Mr. Jacob Metz, assisted by members of the congregation, Messrs. Michael Lang, Frank Frey, and John Betz, built the church.

Fr. Repis served the Saint Clair church until August 1854. The Rev. Joseph Hamm who had been ordained by Bishop Neumann succeeded him. Bishop Neumann authorized the blessing of a cemetery in 1858 for the German Catholics of Saint Clair.

Among the other clergy who served Saint Boniface Church in the early years were Rev. Severin, Rev. Philip Woerner, Rev. Francis Neufeld, Rev. Alphonsus Schleble, Rev. Herman Depmann (who added two cast bronze bells I 1866 in the church tower), Rev. Bernard Dornhege, Rev. John Gerhard Freude, Rev. Fredrick Schleble, Rev. Aloysius Misteli, and Rev. Joseph Nerz. During Rev. Nerz’s pastorate a new catholic school was built to replace the old one. On August 6, 1893 the corner stone laying and blessing took place. Rev. Charles Sauers became pastor serving until 1902, Fr. Saures had a larger tower built to Saint Boniface Church in 1902. Rev. Abert Korves replaced Fr. Sauers, During Rev. Korves’s administration a new rectory was built. The original rectory, is now the home of Mr. John Zerdy (43 S. Nichols St.). Rev. Joseph A. Schaeffer was the next pastor, serving from 1911 to 1945. Some of his most outstanding projects was the improvement of the parish property, including the remodeling of the church and school from frame to brick buildings in 1928 and the addition of a stained glass dome above the high altar, new stations of the cross, statue of Saint Boniface, and redecorating the church interior and a new tile roof on the church. Rev. George Fenzil served Saint Boniface from 1945 to 1948. Then came Rev. Vincent J. Hillanbrand, Fr. Hillianbrand was born December 25, 1888, and he served St. Boniface from September 1948 until about 1967 when he became ill. Fr. Hillanbrand died January 3, 1970 and was the last resident pastor of Saint Boniface. Fr. William J. McHale, assumed the pastoral duties about 1967 during the illness of Fr. Hillanbrand. During Fr. McHale’s pastorate many needed improvements were made to the church and parish buildings including the parish cemetery. Fr. McHale started renovations to the interior of the church to conform to Vatican II. Fr. McHale served until June 1975, and then the duties of pastor were delegated to the Rev. Francis McNelis. Fr. McNelis completed renovations started by Fr. McHale by adding new carpet and new altars. The next priest was Rev. Michael Piovane who left on November 2, 1986. Rev. Francis P. Schoenauer succeeded him. Under Fr. Schoenauer’s administration, the interior of the church underwent a restoration project. The interior of the church was repainted and stenciled. New red carpet was added along with a public address system and organ. Fr. James Ward succeeded Fr. Schoenauer. During Fr. Ward’s pastorate an antique gothic high altar with reredos was added to the sanctuary to complete the restoration project. Fr. Kevin Gallagher succeeded Fr. Ward in May 1999. Fr. Gallagher is the present pastor of Saint Boniface.

The nuns who taught at Saint Boniface School were the sisters of the Third Order of Saint Francis.

Priests from St. Boniface Parish

The Rev. Peter P. Gottschall, ordained July 1, 1911, the Rev. Peter H. Schaaf, ordained July 9, 1900, the Rev. Augustine P. Wachter, ordained May 24, 1902 and Rev. Joseph I. Plappert, ordained May 24, 1906.

Sisters from St. Boniface Parish

Sister M. Simeona (Johanna Klein)-Franciscan order, Sister M. Pulcheria (Victoria Klein)-Franciscan Order, Sister Ursulina (Anna Mary Scholly)-Sisters of Christian Charity, Sister Leocadia (Catherine Scholly)- Sisters of Christian Charity, Sister Dolorosa (Magdalene Bauer)- Sisters of Christian Charity, Sister Venanitia (Elizabeth Bauer)- Sisters of Christian Charity, Sister Leonore (Dolorosa Bauer)-Sister of St. Joseph, Sister Mary Rosamunda (Louise Scholly)-Franciscan Order, and Sister M. Elisea (Margaret Ploppert)-Franciscan Order.

Facts and Points of Interest

The original frame building, which dates back to 1853, is contained within the brick exterior walls. The stained glass windows date back to 1900, which were donated by the parishioners. The oldest being a double window is located in the alcove in the sanctuary to the left. The windows depict St. Boniface and St. Elizabeth of Hungary and date back to the late 1800’s. These were donated by the church sodalities, Vonder Sodalitat and Vom Rosenkranz Verein. These windows ere originally located on the back wall of each side of the high altar. The stained glass dome above the altar is rather unusual and dates back to 1928. The center panel was donated by Rev. Joseph A. Schaeffer and depicts St. Boniface.

The back altar and reredos was obtained from St. Stephens’s church in Coal Township and placed in St. Boniface church in December of 1998. The altar is of the Gothic style and weights 2,500 lbs. And is similar to the original high altar which was made by Maurus Oestreich for at St. Boniface over 100 years ago and was removed during renovations some 32 years ago.

A statue of St. Barbra Patron of miners is located in a niche at the top of the reredos of the back altar and is one of St. Boniface’s original statues. It was imported from Germany and is over 100 years old. The wood carved corpus (image of the Body of Christ) on the marble crucifix located in the reredos was the original one used at St. Boniface in the early years and was hand carved in Germany over 100 years ago.

The new altar of sacrifice located in front of the back altar contains the original altar stone with relics consecrated by Bishop Neumann on July 27, 1852. The statues of the Virgin Mary and St. Joseph are located over the side altars. They are original and were imported form Germany over 100 years ago.

There are three cast bronze bells in the church tower. One of which bears the date1853, date of the church’s founding. Bell founder Joseph Bernhard in Philadelphia, PA, who also recast the sister Liberty Bell, cast these bells.

First electric lights (16) were placed in the church February 13, 1893. In the back of the church under the choir loft to the left is a small room, which is a shrine to St. John Neumann. It contains a first class relic of St. John Neumann in a reliquary. Also the small altar in the shrine was made from a section of the original church’s high altar made by Maurus Oestrich over 100 years ago. Mr. Oestrich, a parishioner, was a carpenter and organ builder who specialized in making pipe organs and church furnishings in the mid to late 1800’s. The large crucifix in the back of the church under the choir loft to the right (the image of Christ crucified) is over 100 years old.

Saint Casmir's Lithuanian Catholic Church

441 South Nichols Street

The Reverend Ronald Jankaitis

A Lithuanian parish was formed in Saint Clair in 1912. Rev. A. Kutas visited the newly established parish and celebrated Mass weekly in the Missonia Hall (formally Buchanan’s Pharmacy on S, 2^nd St.). Saint Mary’s Church and later in the Columbia Hall (now called Columbia Hose House).

In 1915 Mass was being held at the Saint Boniface schoolhouse and the parishioners decided it was time to purchase a plot of ground on South Nichols Street. Ground was broken and the construction of the parish was officially named Saint Casimir’s Church.

The need for a parish cemetery was clearly evident so a strip of land was purchased near Port Carbon in October 1929. The Right Reverend Monsignor Rrusas of Chicago, Illinois blessed the new Saint Casimir’s cemetery.

In 1937, the Silver Jubilee year of St. Casimir's Parish brought with it many renovations to the interior of the church, especially the very unique painting of Our Lady of Vilna on the church ceiling, done by artist Mr. Mino Squillace & Sons. This is a replica of the miraculous figure of Our Lady which stood for 500 years in Vilnius, the capital city of Lithuania. Mr. John Bakas, a parishioner, now deceased, did the oval paintings of Our Lord & Our Lady of Saint Casimir’s Church. Mr. Bakas also painted the pictures of Our Lady and Saint Casimir near the front entrance to the church.

In 1952 Our Lady of Fatima shrine was erected and dedicated alongside of the front entrance. Alfredo Soldani, Massa, Italy, carved the statues of Carrara Marble. The statue of Saint Jude was erected in 1958. In 1959 Baut Studios from Forty Fort, PA installed stained glass windows. They were made possible by individual gifts.

Over the years Saint Casimir's has been blessed with many vocations, including Monsignor Gerald Gobitas, Rev. Richard Ryscavage, S.J. and our present seminarian, Christopher Zelonis.

Our present Pastor, Rev. Ronald Jankaitis, a native of Shenandoah, Pa., is also the Principal of Nativity B.V.M. High School in Pottsville.

During Father Jankaitis's pastorate, our church has undergone a number of renovations and building projects to better enhance our spiritual appreciation of our lovely church. Father Jankaitis has been the shepherd of our flock of 200 families since 1986.

Our Rosary Confraternity group provides spiritual and financial help to Saint Casimir's Parish and the dedication of our Pierogie Sales workers is evident by our successful monthly sales of pierogies & haluskie.

The generosity of our parishioners & friends has been the financial backbone of the parish. Under the protection of the Blessed Mother and our patron Saint Casimir, the church stands as a testament to the memory of the founders of the church, its benefactors, parishioners and friends, many long since departed, who by their personal sacrifices and prayers contributed to the many years of its existence to the greater glory of God.

www.stcasimirschurch.org

Saint John's Lutheran Church

North Nichols Street

The Reverend Mindy Heppe

The first Slovak immigrants to the United States were attracted to the coalfields of Pennsylvania. Those who settled in Saint Clair in the early 19^th century banded together in their homes or public halls to worship in their native language.

A German missionary named Kohut was one of the first ministers to hold services for the Slovak Lutherans in Saint Clair.

In 1907, approximately 15 families banded together to form a congregation. Under the direction of the Rev. John Hurdy of Hazleton, the parish rented the German Lutheran Church on North Nichols Street from the Pennsylvania Ministerium.

Also influential in founding the congregation were Paul Juris, Martin Hubera Sr., Michael Tranowsky and Stephen Kovac. The church was officially organized August 11, 1907.

St. John’s Church was built in 1873 by approximately 20 German Lutherans who left the joint Reformed Lutheran congregation after a long battle over whether German or English should be used in worship services. The Germans sold their half of the church to the Reformed (now St. John’s United Church of Christ on South Front Street) for $1,825, and purchased a lot on North Nichols Street for $2,000.

The Slovak congregation continued to rent the church until 1921, when it purchased and renovated the structure for about $37,000.

Rev. Hurdy served as administrator of St. John’s from 1907 to 1921. Services were held twice a month on Sundays from 7 to 9 p.m. Rev. Hurdy traveled by train from Hazleton for the services and returned home Monday morning. His pay was $15 per month, including train fare and lodging.

The Rev. Matthew Benko of Lansford served as administrator of the church from 1921 to 1926. During this time a basement was dug and daily Bible school classes started. Teachers of these classes were Daniel Adamick, Stephen Medvek and John Mikletz.

The Rev. Stephen Zima became administrator in 1926 and remained until 1929. He held services twice a month, while a lay reader, John Pallo, conducted services other weeks.

During Rev. Zima’s pastorate the congregation purchased its first bell and organ. Stephen Kovac served as the church’s first organist.

In 1930, the congregation decided to merge with St. Matthew’s Church in Mount-Carmel under the Rev. John Janisak. During his pastorate English services were held once a month, beginning in 1947.

Before Rev. Janisak resigned in 1949, the church was remodeled and a new organ purchased.

In 1948, the congregation merged with the Slovak-Zion Synod of the Pennsylvania Ministerium.

The Rev. John Kovacik became administrator in 1949. Services for the next year were conducted by seminarians Albert Ursin and Andrew Kazar. From 1950 to 1958 the Rev. Andrew Balaska became pastor of the Saint Clair Mount Carmel parish.

John Pallo, who served as lay reader for 25 years, died in 1955. His nephew, John Tranowsky, took over the position and served until 1965.

St. John’s celebrated its 50^th anniversary in 1957 with a dinner and special services. The Rev. John Kovacik was the guest speaker.

After Rev. Balaska’s resignation, supply pastors served the congregation for a year until the Rev. Stephen Hluchy accepted a call to the parish in 1959. He served until 1967.

In 1968, St. Matthew’s Church in Mahanoy City was added to the parish. During the pastorate of Rev. Hluchy, the church was again renovated and a new hymnal introduced. Service sin Slovak were reduced to once a month because of dwindling number of Slovak-speaking members.

The Rev. Kenneth Zindle became pastor in 1968 and served until 1970. During the next two years supply pastors served the church and St. Matthew’s Church dropped from the parish.

In 1972, the Rev. Ronald Orovitz became pastor and served until 1975. when he moved to the Lutheran congregation in Ringtown.

From 1975 until February 1979, the Rev. Kenneth Ofslager, who resided in Mahanoy City, served the church.

During his pastorate, St. John’s celebrated its 70^th anniversary in 1977 with a special dinner and service. President of the Synod, the Rev. Paul Brndjar, delivered the sermon.

Various interim pastors served since then, Rev. Mindy Heppe is the present interim pastor.

Saint Clair - Wade Methodist Church

23 North Front Street

The Reverend William Carson

The original Methodist Church in Saint Clair was established in 1848 known as the Methodist Episcopal Church. The present church was built in 1868. The name of the church was later changed to The First United Methodist Church.

In August 2000, the congregation of the Wadesville Methodist Church was forced to abandon their church due to the coal mining operation of the Reading Anthracite Company. The members of the Saint Clair Church were very happy to welcome the Wadesville congregation to join with them. We are now known as The Saint Clair - Wade Methodist Church.

Our church is equipped with a handicapped entrance and an elevator to accommodate the special needs of our members and visitors.

We are also proud of our beautiful pipe organ that was installed in 1905. During the tour of churches, we are very privileged to have Mrs. Emily Gibson performing Christmas music. Mrs. Gibson is a Saint Clair native and resident. She is an accomplished musician of organ, piano, voice and direction. When Mrs. Gibson was the music director for the Saint Clair School District, her choral ensemble was noted throughout the state.

Saint John's United Church of Christ

45 South Front Street

The Reverend Keith Bowie

St. John's UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST began in January of 1853 with the organization of GERMAN REFORMED worshipers. It was a bilingual church with German being the other language.

IN April 1927, the village of New Castle was being razed and abandoned because of mining operations and the Congregation of St. Luke's Reformed Church dissolved their congregation and joined the congregation of St. John's Reformed Church in St. Clair.

In 1934 there was a merger of the Evangelical Church and the Reformed Churches in the United States and St. John's Reformed Church became St. John's Evangelical and Reformed Church.

On June 25, 1957, a new denomination was born with its roots in the Evangelical, Reformed, Congregational and Christian movements in America

The UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST is a merger of four once separate denominations. Our denomination shares a common Statement of Faith as well as these separate emphases; EVANGELICAL ... proclaiming the Evangels (the Good News) REFORMED… Reforming the church and society CONGREGATIONAL…free and autonomous congregations and CHRISTIAN...affirming that Jesus Christ is sole Head of the Church.

Today St. John's is now ST. JOHN'S UNITED CHURCH OF CHRIST, A small congregation that has been in existence for 147 years.

We hope you will come to see our CHRISMON TREE. Chrismons are symbols (monograms) representing Christ. They are all white with gold trim and are all hand made by ladies of the congregation. The only other adornment on the tree is white lights.

Saint Mary' Byzantine Catholic Church

South Morris Street

The Reverend Michael Mondik

In the latter years of the nineteenth century, the thriving coal industry of Northeastern Pennsylvania attracted thousands of immigrants from Eastern Europe. Many of these people settled in St. Clair, a community situated near several major coal deposits. In 1897 a Greek Catholic church was established in St. Clair, which represented a partnership of Rusin and Galician members. Even though each group spoke its own dialect and celebrated the same liturgy of St. John Chrysostom with distinct chants, the blending of the two was successful for a time. However, the differences in customs eventually led the various groups to form more homogenous worship communities.

St. Mary's Byzantine Catholic Church was formed in 1926 by thirty of these families. Initially they attended the Liturgy in St. Nicholas Ukrainian Catholic Church. Later they rented the hall of St. Mary’s Roman Catholic Church in St. Clair. In 1931 Fr. John Koval was appointed pastor of the new church. Land was purchased on the corner of Morris and Railroad Streets in the borough for a church. Five families mortgaged their homes to raise the funds to buy the property. Construction began in 1931 and the church was solemnly dedicated in 1932. A tract of land in Arnot’s Addition was purchased for a new cemetery. During this time Fr. Koval accepted only a fraction of the salary normally due him as pastor.

In 1936 a house on Front Street was purchased to serve as a rectory. During the Great Depression the parish community faced the financial struggles typical of the time. One three occasions a sheriff’s sale sign was posted on the door of the church in response to the demands of numerous creditors. Fr. William Lesko, a pastor at the time, was able to secure a loan from the Greek Catholic Union to partially pay the creditors. In addition, renovations to the church and hall were made. The present stained glass windows were installed in the nave and choir of the church in 1951. The mortgage was burned in 1954.

Under the pastorate of Fr. Joseph Homa a new rectory was completed in 1960. The interior of the church was extensively remodeled and repainted in the late 1960’s during the pastorate of Fr. Theodore Rudy.

Another major update to the church and social hall facilities was made in 1980. The interior church renovations included the installation of an icon screen and six crystal chandeliers.

In 1968 a parish vocation, Fr. Michael J. Dudick, became bishop of the Eparchy of Passaic, where he served until his retirement in 1996.

Saint Mary’s Church had a humble beginning in the immigrant laborers who settled in and around Saint Clair, where they found work in many mines and collieries. They arrived here in the 1840’s and 1850’s.

Between 1853 and 1863 when Bishop James Wood, the Bishop of Philadelphia, received a request for the creation of a new Parish, the English-speaking Catholics had grown to number 3,000. The hard work of founding the parish was given to The Reverend N. J. Walsh, who was stationed at Saint Patrick’s Church in Pottsville.

Mr. E. F. Durang, of Pottsville, drew up the plans. The plans called for a church based on a classical Roman temple. It was to have rounded arch windows, Roman-style altars, and a floor plan based on the basilica plan. The apse or sanctuary was to be at the east end of the building so that the priest and people would face the East, toward the Holy Land, especially Bethlehem and Jerusalem, during the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass, a practice carried out in most Catholic churches of the time. The building itself was to be constructed of brick, with the width of the walls varying from two and one-half bricks to one and one-half bricks as per the plan.

The floor of the upper church was to be supported by twelve cast iron posts that rested upon 12” by 12” girders of white pine; the latter are still in use supporting the hall floor.

The church was dedicated and consecrated by His Excellency, The Most Reverend James T. Wood, Fifth Bishop of Philadelphia. Although formed in 1863, Saint Mary’s did not function as a parish

until 1864. Bishop Wood appointed Reverend James A. Brehony as the pastor of Saint Mary’s Church. On May 1, 1864, Father Brehony offered the first Mass in the parish of Saint Mary, the Immaculate Mother of God.

During Father Brehony’s pastorate, Saint Mary’s took shape and proceeded, as any other parish would have done. The original ledger, which is still in existence, shows that typical furnishings were bought for the church. The organ was purchased on May 28, 1869 for $192.00. The coal bill for 1864 was $90.00. as there was no permanent rectory, a house was rented for $150.00 a year to be increased to $200.00 a year by 1871. The first fund-raiser, noted as having taken place in July 1864, was a raffle of cigars. This netted the parish $31.00. Also, that same July a parish tradition was established; a picnic was held which netted $1,065.00. This tradition continued until the 1970’s.

Many prominent non-Catholics of Saint Clair were also helpful in founding the parish. During May 1866, the Protestant Community of Saint Clair donated $500.00 to Saint Mary’s.

In 1869, land was purchased from Mr. Thomas Russell for the purpose of creating a cemetery for the parishioners of Saint Mary’s. On March 20, 1872 a lot was purchased from Mr. John Barry for the purpose of building a rectory.

Father Brehony continued his pastorate until 1874 when the Reverend Philip McEnrse replaced him. In April 1879, the Reverend Michael McEnroe, who was succeeded by The Reverend M.J. Gately, succeeded Father Philip McEnroe. He remained at Saint Mary’s for thirteen years until the Reverend Huch McGettigan who was ordained on June 15, 1892 succeeded him. Father McGettigan served as pastor until 1894 when The Reverend John J. O’Connor replaced him. Father O’Connor remained as pastor until 1911, when he was succeeded by The Reverend George P. Degnan who served when the parish was ready to undertake the education of its children in subjects beyond the catechism. A lot for a school had been purchased sometime prior to 1874. On February 15, 1914, Father Degnan announced that plans and specifications for the new school were completed. On March 17, 1914 ground was broken for the new school by the Reverend Father Kelly, C.S.S.P. The church was mortgaged for $15,000.00 to help pay for the school. On July 26, 1914, the cornerstone was blessed by His Excellency, The Most Reverend J.J. McCort, Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia.

In 1921, The Reverend James J. McCloskey was named pastor. He was able to keep the parish together during the hard years of the Great Depression and he was pastor during the painful years of the Second World War.

In 1953, Father McCloskey was relieved of the burden of pastoral card when the Reverend Wiliam McHale was sent to Saint Mary’s. After 89 years of daily use Saint Mary’s was, on Father McHale’s arrival, in need of much deserved renovation. Mr. Edward Byrne of Byrne Studios, Doylestown, designed the new simplified church interior. These renovations wee extensive, including new floors, lights, wiring, pews and a totally new sanctuary. Exterior stairs were added, making access to the church both easier and safer. The crucifix on the apse wall, the statues, and the Stations of the Cross were hard-carved wood imported form Germany. The sanctuary lamp originally hung in a bombed-out English church. During the one and one-half years of renovations, Mass was held in the church basement. Exactly ninth years after the first Mass was celebrated in Saint Mary’s Church, Mass was again said in the church; the date was Christmas Day, 1954.

After the church renovations were completed it was necessary to find land for a new parish cemetery. A suitable piece of land was found on Peach Mountain. A total of 610 acres was purchased. Only part of the total tract of land was developed as a perpetual care, lawn-type cemetery called the Queen of Universe Memorial Gardens.

In June of 1974, the Reverend Frances McNelis of the parish succeeded Father McHale in the administration of the church. Father McHale remained at Saint Mary’s until his retirement in June of 1980.

Father McNelis headed Saint Mary’s from 1975 to 1985. During his pastorate, the interior of the church was painted, as well as the first floor of the rectory. He installed a new furnace in both the church and the rectory.

In 1980. Saint Mary’s convent was closed when the Sisters of Saint Joseph consolidated, the Sisters of Saint Mary’s school with those living and teaching at Saint Patrick’s Church in Pottsville.

The Reverend Michael Piovane who left Saint Mary’s on November 2, 1986 succeeded Father McNelis. He was succeeded by The Reverend Francis P. Schoenauer, who was responsible for having the marble altar installed during the renovation of 1953-1954, moved so that it could again be used in the celebration of Mass. He was also responsible for the installation of a new microphone system and pulpit in the church.

Many groups still exist in the parish, which serve various purposes, all of which enhance the parish. Among them are the altar servers, lectors, Eucharistic Ministers, cantors, and ushers who assist at the celebration of the Mass. The Senior Choir, under the direction of Mr. John Melley, adds beauty to the celebration of the Mass. The building committee, which played an advisory role in the evaluation of the physical plan of the church and the creation of the renovation plans, will be aided in the actual renovations by the parish finance committee.

Father James J. Ward succeeded Father Schoenaur as pastor in November 1996. Our present pastor, Father Kevin P. Gallagher, who is also pastor of Saint Boniface and Saints Peter and Paul churches, replaced Father Ward.

Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Orthodox Church was built in 1907 and dedicated in 1908. The first clergyman was Rev. Michael Fekula.

Around 1900 emigrants out of Galicia and Carpatho-Russia of the Uhiat Greet Catholic Church in St. Clair organized an Orthodox Brotherhood of Mutual Aid by the name of Declension of Holy Ghost and the aim was to abandon Rome and to organize an Orthodox Congregation. The first organizers were mostly immigrants of the village of Kamyanna of Sandetsky district of Galicia namely: Auksenty Chylack, John Gogotz, Dionisy Yadlowsky, Theodore Gogotz, Phillip Fetsenko, Eugene Gogotz, Nicholas Polifka, Thaddeus Tsidillo, Andrew Herbert, John Okal, Gregory Steknatch, Kiprian Stetz and John Mandiak. They held services in the Lutheran Chapel and called themselves Orthodox Christian. The first pastor was Fr. Yatskovitch of Lansford, PA.

In January 1901, 1-1/2 acres of land was purchased for a cemetery in Arnots Additon at a cost of $550. The church was built in 1908. In 1915 there were 123 persons from Galicia, 39 from Russia proper and 6 persons out of Carpatho-Russia.

During the parish’s early development a Church Choir, the Balalayka Orchestra and Dramatic Club were organized. The Church Choir presented the Congregation with a monument for the cemetery, a huge stone Orthoxos Cross, blessed and dedicated by the Most Eminent Platon, Metropolitan of North America and Canada.

Auksenty Chylack was architect of the church. The icons for the screen were prepared and painted by Joseph Warchol. On June 23, 1927, all property was transferred to the Holy Assumption Russian Orthodox Church by the Holy Trinity Brotherhood..

On January 14, 1939 during vesper services the church caught fire. Luckily, the church was insured and the damage was repaired.

In 1952, under the pastorate of Rev. Gregroy Stefchak, the church hall was renovated, the church and parish home were repainted and new furnishings purchased for the parish home.

In the early 1890's a number of Slavic people from the Carpatho-Russ, Czechoslovakia, and Galicia regions of Europe immigrated to the St. Clair area to work in the southern anthracite coalfields and pursue the American dream. Although they spoke very little English and found themselves among other immigrant groups, they banded together in Christian love to help each other.

One of the first priorities was to form their own church community. A two-story hall was purchased on October 29, 1897, from the Holy Apostles Episcopal parish and converted into a house of worship. The new church, St. Michael's the Archangel United Greek Catholic Russian Orthodox Church, was dedicated on November 21, 1897, on the patron saint's feast day. This building, which is now the social hall, served as the church for 35 years.

During those years many families from the original church would leave to form parishes on their own in St. Clair: St. Mary's Russian Orthodox Church in 1900, St. Nicholas Greek Catholic Galician-Russian Church in 1906, Holy Trinity Ukrainian Catholic Church in 1922, and St. Mary's Greek Catholic (now Byzantine) Church in 1925. The remaining faithful of St. Michael's continued to maintain the faith of their forefathers--Orthodoxy.

As the parish continued to grow, it became obvious that a larger church was necessary. Construction of the present day church was begun in 1924 at a contract cost of $159,000. However, these were difficult times; the Depression was looming. Work on the new church ceased for several years until 1929 when the Rev. Andrew S. Slepecky was made pastor. Many parishioners mortgaged their homes and/or donated their labor and materials to complete the construction. The church architect, D. H. Grootenboer, and contractor, C. Messersmith, were both from Pottsville. On Thanksgiving Day, 1932, Archbishop Adam of Philadelphia dedicated the new church. A long awaited dream of the faithful had finally come true. The final construction cost was approximately $119,000.

Fr. Andrew would serve St. Michael's and the St. Clair community for the next 47 years. During his pastorate, the church completed a stained glass window project (I 93 8), purchased pews (I 94 1), and built a chapel on the cemetery grounds (I 943). St. Barbara's Altar Society was organized in 1931 to help in fund raising activities. A men's group, the Citizens Club, educated parishioners in correct voting procedures and assisted in fund raising activities also. A choir was organized to sing responses during the Divine Liturgy. John Shandor, who served as St. Clair's Borough Secretary for many years, would direct this choir for 40 years until his death in 1984. A Church School Guild was started in 1959 to assist in the Sunday school program. A chapter of FROC (now FOCA) was also very active socially during these years and continues to be so today.

When Fr. Andrew retired in 1975, the Rev. Paul Borick and his matushka, Irene, succeeded him. In his seven-year pastorate, Fr. Paul introduced more English into the service and continued to inspire the faithful in the Orthodox faith. In September 1982, St. Michael's returned to the jurisdiction of the Carpatho-Russian Orthodox Diocese of Johnstown, PA, a diocese it had belonged to prior to 1946. On 0ctober 8 1982, His Excellency, Bishop John R. Martin, assigned Rev. David L. Moriak, and his pani, Jeannette, to St. Michael's. The present shepherd of the Diocese is His Eminence, Metropolitan Nicholas Smisko.

During Fr. David’s eighteen year pastorate at St. Michael's, the sacramental life of the parish has been revitalized, more English has been introduced into the services, and the church school curriculum has been restructured. A senior and junior ACRY were established. St. Michael's Sisterhood was established in 1990 to support church endeavors. A weekly scripture class is held to learn more about the Orthodox faith. Many building and repair projects were begun and completed with the help and guidance of the twenty-two members Parish Council and the support of the parish family.

St. Michael's Catering Service has served the St. Clair community and environs for many years. The parish supports the local Birthright organization. The parishioners financially support our nation during times of crises such as floods, hurricanes, and tornadoes. We annually participate in the local Relay for Life activities for cancer. The Christine Zuk Charity Fund was organized and presently supports the Hogar, an Orthodox orphanage of 150 youngsters in Guatemala.

In its 103-year history, St. Michael's has provided six vocations to the Holy Priesthood, and at the present time we have a seminarian, Matthew Moriak, attending St. Tikhon's Seminary, and a sub deacon, Frank Opalenick, serving the parish. St. Michael's has experienced many joyous and tragic times in its history. The untimely death of Pani Jeannette after an eleven-month battle with leukemia in 1997 not only shocked the parish, but also united it in prayer, love, and community service. May her memory be eternal.

Through the forthcoming years St. Michael's will look forward to continuing the faith of its forefathers, Orthodoxy, and serving the St. Clair community. May the prayers and intercessions of St. Michael the Archangel be with us always.

In 1904 a group of Ukrainians decided to organize their own church. Prior to that time they attended liturgy at Saint Michael's Church in Shenandoah and later in the old Saint Michael's Church in Saint Clair. There were about forty-six Ukrainian families residing in Saint Clair, New Castle and Cumbola. With the help of Reverend Leo Levitsky the group formed a corporation for the purpose of worshipping God according to the Rite, tradition and customs of the Ukrainian Catholic Church. They rented a building on North Front Street, formerly the School House Dress Factory, to hold church services. In 1905 they received their charter and undertook the task of building a church.

They leased a parcel of land, the present site, from the Philadelphia and Reading Coal and Iron Company and began construction of the present church edifice with the men of the parish digging the foundation by hand. The church was completed in early 1906 at a cost of $3600.00. The church was dedicated on April 17, 1906 and the first church services were held on Easter Sunday.

Due to economic conditions and because the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church in America was not yet organized, the early years were difficult times for the parishioners. There was no bishop to take care of the newly formed charges and a shortage of pastors plagued the parishioners. The parish had to depend on European pastors to give up their homeland to come to America. The pastors were married with families and it was difficult for the small parish to support a Resident Pastor and his family.

In 1907 the bells were purchased for the church. In 1916 the present parish house on North Mill Street was purchased and the interior of the church was completed.

The membership of the parish dwindled during the great economic depression. Due to unemployment, parishioners left the area to look for work.

In 1946 the present church site was officially purchased and the present stainless steel domes were installed. In 1986 the church celebrated its 80th anniversary and the interior of the church was refurbished.

The parish of SS. Peter and Paul came into history as most other national parishes. The origin is usually a response to the needs of people

3) further alienated by a language barrier. These conditions were quite accurately those of the Polish people of St. Clair and it’s surrounding area.

These immigrants partially fulfilled these needs by sticking together and by worshiping in near-by Polish-speaking parishes or in the Slovak church in St. Clair, Immaculate Conception.

On March 5, 1906, Peter Wysocki, Michael Sokolowski, and Joseph Andziewski organized the first Polish society in St. Clair to deal with these needs more effectively. This society had fourteen members. In that same year they formed a parish. They had no Polish priests among their number, so they intended to invite Polish priests from neighboring towns to celebrate Mass for them.

Rev. Frug from Minersville said the first Mass for this group in a hall, which they rented, from a group of Masons in town. The name of the hall was Columbia HaIl and this occurred in the year of 1906. Later in this year yet, Rev. Ziebura came from St. Anthony's Polish Parish in Cumbola to say a Mass for them. Lack of interest and response from the Polish people of St. Clair led the group to withhold services until, 1912, when Rev. Olesinski traced Ziebura's path from Cumbola to say Mass for them. Olesinski, with the help of Niicholas Olewicz, a natural leader of the people of the parishioners whose influence spanned the tenures of many pastors and their leader of the parish committee, conducted a census which showed 35 families and 26 single men. Olesinslii's work set the stage--the parish was beginning to grow. Before the year 1912 was out, the interest of the Polish people of St. Clair was not only aroused but also bubbling over to the extent that they wrote to the Archbishop of Philadelphia, Archbishop Prendergast requesting a permanent pastor. He complied with their wish by appointing Rev. John Dudzik first pastor of SS. Peter and Paul Polish Parish. In this same year the parish also received its own charter from the Polish National Alliance, becoming Group 1,517.

Rev. Duizik said his first Mass in Columbia Hall, as the visiting priests had done in the past. He later arranged to use the basement of St. Mary's Parish, the “Irish” church. His rectory was on the site of the present St. Mary's Parochial School. He was pastor for only one year.

In 1913, Rev. Olesinski, who had worked earlier to organize the parish, now came from Cumbola to be its second pastor. He transacted a purchase, which included property on North Mill Street, which was intersected by the street. On the east side of the street was a plot of ground which would be the site of the church building; on the west side was a building which had been used as a saloon, which would be converted into a rectory. Then the construction of the church began, the parishioners would go from Sunday Mass at St. Mary's to inspect the progress on their church.

In 1915 Rev. Durycki replaced Rev. Olesinski. Being qualified to handle both Polish and Lithuanian, the new pastor betrayed mixed loyalties. Static came from the parishioners, who feared that a dual nationality ministry would result--such as was practiced at Sacred Heart Parish in New Philadelphia. Durycki stayed less than a year.

Rev. Sulek came in 1916 and stayed until 1918. Next came Rev. Kucharski, and on August 18, 1919, the church building was completed. The “Polish church” was now a reality. Rev. Kucharski had difficulties with a group of dissenters within the parish, and in 1922 he left as pastor. Rev. Mioduszewski was appointed to fill his place; after three years of efficient administration of the parish's affairs, he too moved on.

In 1925 came Rev. Klosinski, and so began a new phase of the parish's development. He built a fence around the church property, to the approval of the parishioners. A fire broke out in the church building but was confined to the back of the building in the vestibule area. Rather than merely repairing the damage, the energetic pastor extended the entrance of the church, thus bringing it out to its present position. Remodeling was completed in 1928, and on May 30, (Confirmation Day for the parish), Rt. Rev. Bishop Crane laid the new cornerstone. On November 29, (Thanksgiving Day), that same year, Rt. Rev. Msgr. Kopytkiewicz dedicated the new front of the church. SS. Peter and Paul now had a new look. A church bell and organ were added at the request of the parishioners.

Rev. Klosinski also did some remodeling in the rectory. He replaced the front widow which had been a feature of the facade since the time when

the dwelling had been used as a bar. He also put a partition into the front room, dividing it into a parlor and an office, as it is presently divided.

In 1942 came Rev. Kopec whose stay as pastor was the longest and who became the first priest to die as pastor at SS. Peter and Paul. Mild mannered by nature, he pastured in a quiet, unassuming, low-key manner, preferring to refrain from unnecessary socializing activities. His basic personal nature intensified by bouts with cancer during the 1950's and 1960's which forced his hospitalization several times had a restricting influence on the parish social spirit.

Although quiet, his years were not unproductive. During his tine the long-standing parish debt disappeared. A huge marble cross was purchased and installed on the cemetery grounds, and the approach to the cemetery was improved. The heating system was converted from coal to oil, and the radiator system was recessed into the side walls in the nave of the church. Carpeting was added to the church. The parish hall was completely remodeled. The lighting system was augmented; sound system, both interior and exterior was added. The exterior of the church was improved as well as the rectory and garage exteriors. The walls of the parlor, office, and dining" room of the rectory were paneled. By 1968, the year of Rev. Kopec's death, the parish had seen many improvements, large and small, in the appearance of their church, rectory, and parish grounds--all due to their quiet and, for many years ailing, pastor.