When Church Was the Center of Our Lives


My grandparents immigrated to the United States from Czechoslovakia and eventually settled in Hazeltine in Youngstown. Their home was across a small alley adjacent to St. Elizabeth School and just up the hill was their beloved St. Elizabeth Church. The church was the center of their lives. My father and my aunts and uncles grew up in the church receiving their sacraments, attending school and passing their faith forward to their children.

The church was also the center of my grandparents’ social life. They loved the yearly bizarre as it was called in those days. They were so blessed to enjoy all the wedding receptions in the church hall, and all the cooking and camaraderie. The church was the center of both their spiritual and their social life.

The church is the center of Karen’s and my life as well, both spiritually and socially. We have many lifelong friendships with so many people of our parish and we have had so many great and memorable times at our social events.

This year on December 31st, our St. Patrick Parish will be hosting our “New Years Gala.”  What a great opportunity to start the new year together!  I promise that you will not be disappointed. We will feature a world class menu that includes prime rib, shrimp table and much more. Music will be provided by Guys Without Ties. The venue will also feature an open bar. The cost for this event is only $75 per person.

I look forward to joining you for this fabulous evening of fun and friendship. You can call Marybeth (330)770-8327 for tickets.

Love,
Deacon John