This pamphlet was conceived in enthusiasm by men and women who are bristling with PEP to build a Beautiful Church in St. James Parish. They are impatiently waiting; they are clamoring for action. They want YOU to know what they propose the dog should be doing. They hope you will be with them. Don't look for a seat in the Grand Stand-People who do things move=-the disinterested sit; and watch-Our Parish Big Drum is beating a marching tune -"LET US GO."
On Saturday evening, March 14, Michael J. Macken and his wife at their home. 1354 Semple avenue, signed their names to a deed in the presence of Father O'Connor, James P. O'Gorman and Ray Dolan, which transfers a city block of property on Tamm avenue between Nashville and Wade avenues, to . St. James Parish as a free gift for the site of a new. Church. The estimated value of this property is between nine and ten thousand dollars. It fronts 200 feet on Tamm avenue and is a depth of 160 feet on Wade and Nashville avenues.
Mr. Macken
Mrs. Macken
A strip of 35 feet on Tamm and Wade avenues was sold by Mr. Macken last August to Mr. and Mrs. William T. Boman, 6425 Nashville avenue, and plans were made to rest a bungalow, but on being informed by Father O'Connor that the church hoped someday to purchase the rest of the lot from Mr. Macken and would need this portion also, Mr. Boman suspended his decision and left the lot lie idle.
When it was represented to Mr. and Mrs. Macken that they ought to donate the entire site for the church, they agreed to arrange with Mr. Boman for the repurchase of this lot and an exchange of property was made that was agreeable to both parties. Mr. and Mrs. Boman were as anxious .to help the, church as were Mr. and Mrs. Macken. A fine spirit of generosity and charity' was manifested.
Mr. Macken - was born in Ballen Roba,, County Mayo, Ireland, and served as a draper’s assistant in his native village until he married Miss Donnelly, a Roscommon girl. Fifty years ago the couple set out for St Louis. "God," he said, "has been very good to me. I have prospered and we are getting old. It is the greatest pleasure of my life to give this piece of property to be the site of a Catholic Church." There was 'a tear of gladness in his eye as he said those words and to conceal his emotion, he had his little joke:
When Father O'Connor gave him the dollar required in the form of contract, "I have," he said, "given many a dollar to priests, but this is the first that ever I received from one of them."
Mr. Macken's gift is a splendid spiritual urge to the people of St. James Parish to get busy about their proposed New Church, as well as a substantial aid. We are not going to say when we will begin to build but the Parish is aroused; an organization is being formed and meetings of the Parishioners will be held the last Thursday of every month. We thank you very sincerely, Mr. and Mrs. Macken, and we assure you we will make great haste so that you and your good wife will have the pleasure of being with us on the date when a splendid edifice shall be dedicated to the Lord on the ground you donated to St. James Parish.
FORTY ENTHUSIASTS
At a call from Father O'Connor, forty enthusiasts met in the Parish Hall on the last Wednesday in January. They were selected from among the parishioners who have been regular contributors to the 4%.
Father O'Connor's Remarks
On addressing the meeting he said: "In calling this committee I have no definite plan to submit and prefer the members to mark out the course to be pursued. I have selected you because of your many manifestations of good will and because of the sacrifices you have been making to increase the fund for a New Church. I am confident that each one of you has a desire to do all in his power to advance the best interest of this Parish. I realize that you being closer to the business world than I am, and more conversant with business methods in a variety of offices, will bring to bear your business ability on the problems that will come up from time to time, and that united with me in effort we will achieve in a short time, a success that shall be gratifying to ourselves and to all parishioners. I have called you especially to establish a Parish Organization.
The thoughts that have occurred to the general purpose of such an organization are:
Ray Dolan Temporary Chairman.
At the close of Father O'Connor's remarks, he requested Mr. Ray Dolan to act as temporary chairman and a vote was taken as to whether a permanent organization should not be established. Mr. Martin Coad objected because the meeting was not parochial. Mr. Dolan replied that he had attended many parochial meetings that were publicly announced and to which the parishioners were earnestly exhorted to attend, but he never saw a much larger and more representative body of parishioners than were present on this occasion. He was, he said, very much in favor of proceeding with the election of regular officers for a permanent organization. A motion was made by Mr. Crotty, which was carried, and after a keen contest on the three nominees -- Messrs. Frank Walsh, R. Dolan and Joseph Crotty --Mr. Crotty was elected by a majority of one vote. Mr. Dolan and Mr. Walsh each received the unlucky number . of 13.
On a motion from Mr. Dolan, Mr. Walsh was unanimously named assistant chairman. There were three nominees for secretary Miss Irene Moloney, Theresa Manion and Mary O'Hare. On a division Mary O'Hare was elected.
Little Headway.
The meeting opened with a variety of questions and there seemed to be a general inability to decide on what course to pursue. The chair asked for suggestions. Mr. George Kletzker suggested appointing a committee who would act on such questions as the site of a church, the size, cost, and style of architecture, Father O’Connor said he preferred to leave these questions to later meetings. Mr. Frank Walsh said it was unreasonable to look for practical suggestions at this meeting because he believed most of those present were, like himself, unaware till they arrived, of the purpose for which they were called -- and therefore he would suggest that the meeting close with the understanding that each one present would deliberate on the things that might be done for the benefit of the Parish and report at next meeting.
A Financial Committee.
Father O'Connor urged the meeting to select a financial committee who would begin at once to increase the number of contributors to the four per cent. The meeting acquiesced and the chair appointed Messr,. Hell, Ollie Dolan, Sam Gittins, Clyde Stiff and George Kletzker.
Regular Meetings.
It was decided to holed a meeting on the last Thursday of each month and to extend an invitation to all the parishioners. Meeting adjourned.
SECOND MEETING
Splendid Suggestions Offered by Sergeant Eugene Martineau.
Mr. Chairman: "This being the second meeting called by our Pastor, Father O'Connor for the purpose of devising ways and means by which the people of this Parish may realize their cherished ambitions, namely, the building of a New Church, suggestions are in order. I have come to the conclusion that the people of this Parish are made up of three distinct groups. The first group I would term the Progressives, because they favor any practical plan that would intensify the activities to increase Parish Revenue and facilitate the building of a Church. The second group I would term the Conservatives, because their contention is they have accepted the four per cent system of raising funds and are in favor of staying within, the limits of that system: and the third group comprises those who favor any plan adopted by the majority. Of course, this is all opinion and may be wrong-but if this condition is true, then it is only right and proper that this meeting should decide by vote whether it wants the Progressive or Conservative plan. After the winning plan has been determined by a majority vote, the submitting of plans to raise funds by any member should be in order.
A Motion to Adopt the Progressive Plan.
Mr. W. Boman proposed a motion to accept the Progressive Plan. Mr. R. Dolan seconded the motion. Sergeant Martineau was requested by the chair to explain in more in detail what these plans implied.Progressive Plan.
Hold two monster outdoor carnivals, one to be held this year and one in 1926. Committee on Arrangements to be appointed as soon as possible for the purpose of advertising the carnival, getting tickets out and attending to other matters. This plan to run for two years independent of the four per cent system. At the end of period, NEW CHURCH TO BE BUILT.
Conservative Plan.
To draw money from the four per cent system and user same to buy two portable school rooms or temporary buildings to relieve the congestion in our school. Make other improvements, such as painting, landscaping and beautifying the present properties, a committee to be appointed to take charge of this work. This plan to run for five years; at the end of this period a New Church to be built. This plan to be run under strict economical plans in order to raise as much money under the four per cent system as possible.
Opposition to Carnivals.
Mr. Thomas Duggan stated he favored Conservative plan, because extended facilities for the school children were more necessary than a New Church. "Everyone knows, he said, "the school is crowded to its capacity and there are people in the Parish who are availing themselves of this excuse and neglect of the religious education of their children." He was opposed to bazaars; they were associated in the popular mind with gambling; they; entailed a great deal of work, and the money that was raised through them came chiefly from those who were already doing their full share. He was determined, he said, to contribute to give only one or the other. He would urge them to stick to the four per cent method of raising funds -- at one time he was opposed to it; now he was convinced it was the rational method for supporting the church -- it was fair to all; the man who had a small salary was not asked for much and the one who had a large salary was asked to only four cents out of each dollar. He was sorry to see Father O'Connor not making a more decided stand against Carnivals -- a few years ago he was opposed to them.
Charlie Heil
"I am," said Mr. Heil, "a contributor to the four per cent. I understand I have been appointed on the financial committee. I am ready to do anything for the good of the Parish -- let us get after the ones who are not contributing -- they are the Slackers. I am ready to give two evenings a week and my machine to the committee. Let us build a Church -- we can't do it without money. I am in favor of any method that increases revenue.
Those Who Do Not Pay.
Mr. John Houlihan asked Father O'Connor what percentage of the parishioners supported the Church. Father O'Connor replied., It is not easy to answer that question – some contribute for a month or two and get tired. About seventy per cent of the congregation are regular contributors."
Favors a Carnival.
Mr. Nicholas Nolan said: "A raffle is the only way to increase funds." He works, he continued, for a firm that employs two or three thousand men and they are always ready to take a chance on a worth-while prize, such as an automobile or a house. A raffle would in no way interfere with the four per cent, because only those need pay for a ticket who were willing to take a chance.
Mr. Ray Dolan:
"There is scarcely anyone present who is not .a contributor to the four per cent. If we also want a Carnival, it is the privilege of this meeting to decide. I am in favor of a Carnival; because it will help us to get a Church sooner. I have spent all my life in St. James Parish and in all that time the neighboring Churches have been better than ours."
They Go to Carnivals Anyhow:
Mr. Martin Coad: "The question is not whether you believe in Carnivals or not -- as a matter of fact, there was not, a Carnival in this Parish from 1916 to 1924. Last year the Mothers’ Club gave a Carnival to improve the School, and though Father O’Connor did everything but condemn it from the Altar, twenty-five hundred dollars, ($2500.00) was raised. There are oodles of our parishioners whom I have seen at Carnivals these several years. If you don't give them a chance to spend their money at home, they will spend it somewhere else. I have been a contributor to the four per cent and I favor a Carnival. I will further state for the information of this meeting that the workers who put over this Carnival and raised the $2500.00 were parishioners who are paying .the four per cent."
Did Not Take Interest Till Carnival.
Mr., Frank Walsh, who up to this time had remained silent, was requested by the chair to give his views. He listened, he said, with pleasure to the discussion -- he liked to see parishioners meet and thrash out questions pertaining to the Parish. A parish meeting was the practical place to find out whether one's viewpoint corresponded with that of the majority. It was a place where one could meet and get acquainted with his neighbors. He was in favor of a Carnival because, until the last Carnival, he never took any interest in the parish and he was confident there were several of the new settlers who, like himself, would become more interested in parish affairs if they were asked to help with a Carnival.
Portable Schools.
Mr. Bernard Brady said the present Church was satisfactory; he favored Mr. Duggan’s suggestion to erect portable school buildings Mr. Dolan said it would be waste of money and an unnecessary delay to a Church. "The School is already erected; we are occupying a part of it for Church purposes; let us get out, and there will be plenty of room for the children."The Vote Decided.
The question was put to a vote --the greater number of those present were in favor of the Progressive plan and a Carnival. Mr. Duggan again objected and Mr. J. P, O'Gorman said it was the custom when a question was discussed and voted upon to have all accept the majority decision as final. "This is a parochial meeting to which the entire Parish was invited” he continued, “and unless we abide by the decision of the majority we will, never get anywhere"
Volunteers!
Sergeant Martineau made a motion that, as the Parish had decided to give two Carnivals before 1927, when `a Church would be built; the meeting would place itself on record as upholding the four per cent contributions from every wage-earner -- with the clear understanding that only those would be expected to contribute to the Carnival who were willing to do so; that it should be regarded as a voluntary affair which the urgent needs of the Parish made imperative. Mr., Hodnett moved a committee be appointed to look into the matter of Carnival, leaving date, location, etc., in the hands of the committee. Motion seconded and carried, committee appointed being: John Houlihan, Jr., chairman; Mr. Hodnett, Geo. Kletzker, Thos. Duggan, R. R. Dolan, Louis Regal, W. T. Boman, Martin Coad, Frank. Walsh, E. J. Martineau, Chas. Heil, Clyde.Stiff. This committee to meet and report back to next meeting plans they have decided upon.Meeting adjourned.
St. Patrick's night in St. James Parish will be associated for many years to come with the Mothers' Club. The Minstrel Show given by them, to a full house, aroused unusual admiration and enthusiasm. One would readily believe the players were professionals. For three hours the vast audience laughed. Adele McVey Conroy in her personification of "Danny Murphy" made a hit that was equaled only by the Quartette and Mrs. Sam Gittins. The whole cast was excellent.
(Printed by Wellington Printing Co. – and carried a union bug.)
MOTHERS CLUB MINSTREL
The Mother’s Club will repeat their minstrel show on Sunday evening, May 17, 1925 at the parish open air theater. They say it is the first word in high class entertainment. When the oldest Catholic Mother’s Club of the city starts to do something it is as good as accomplished.
The Mother's Club with Father O'Connor
The minstrel show at Yale Hall March 17 was acclaimed to the audience a better show than one sees down town for $2.00 Judging by the repeated laughter it had plenty of kick. Mrs. Adele McVey Conroy believes she has a few wiggles left for the show in the airdome and Mrs. Gittins expression in the picture proves she is still smiling. The following is the program for the evening:
Act I
Interlocutor
Mrs. E.M. Plengemeir --- Washington.
End Men:
Act 2
Mrs. Sam Gittins and Mrs. Adele McVey Conroy
Act 3
SCRUBWOMAN’S REVENGE
Mrs. V.M. Kavanaugh and Mrs. W. Hefele
ST. JAMES MOTHERS' CLUB
The St. James Mother’s Club is, as far as we know, the oldest mother’s club of parochial schools in St. Louis. It celebrated its fifth anniversary on October 5, 1924. It was organized by Mrs. Emma Bovard, under whose active and zealous presidency it has developed and earned a place in the affections of the school children and their parents.
Every lady in the parish is eligible to membership. Members who have time take turns in the cafeteria -- a hot lunch is served at a nominal charge during the winter months to the children who' do not care to go home, and a seasonable snack with fresh milk the rest of the year. The club aims at no profits in the lunch room and as it purchases commodities at wholesale prices, the lunch costs the parents less than if served in the home.
The health of the children is the first object of the mothers' club and so successful has been its efforts, the children of the parish last year were awarded first prize in the contest among parochial schools conducted under the auspices of the St. Louis Tuberculosis Society
The club also furnishes books to poor children and interests itself in the needs of the classroom and the general welfare of the pupils. Last year it gave a carnival and raised $2,500 for the installation of toilets, and the renewing of plastering in the play rooms. The children probably remember best the Christmas presents and Christmas tree.
The Mothers' Club's chief sources of revenue: are euchres, lottos, minstrel shows and rummage sales. The entire fund is spent on the children. Recently chairs and tables were purchased in anticipation of the euchres.
MEN TO SERVE LADIES BREAKFAST
The Mothers' Club will go to Holy Communion on Sunday May 10, at 7:30 o'clock. and will afterwards be guests of the parish. Men will cook and serve their breakfast. Eddie Ryan says he is a first-class chef but his experience is limited to the cooking of bacon and eggs. He is not much of a hand, he says, at making cookies. However, he believes John Bersch, Stephen Boyer, Louis Regal and George Wiber may be depended upon to turn the trick.
YOUNG MOTHER
Children are much the same at birth. The difference comes later. Human nature is like a grab bag. The inheritance of each one has an element of chance some of our greatest human characters and finest intellects have come from genealogical scrubs. Sir Isaac Newton, for instance, one of the greatest mathematical geniuses the world has ever known, was the son of a little farmer. Nero was born in a palace -- Jesus in a stable.
Your child is an unknown character even to you. What will this child be? God alone can tell. Whilst waiting developments there is much that you can do to mould the plastic beings that God has entrusted to your care.
Health is more important than education. Open air, sunshine, plenty of plain food and exercise will keep the doctor from your door. Let the child kick, shout, climb and play till he's tired. Do not irritate him with "don'ts” "Don'ts" make walls to a child's prison. Your nerves will not suffer if you encourage him to play abroad winter and summer. Inventiveness and self-reliance will come if you leave him make his own toys and games. 0ld folks and adults are poor playmates for children and the picture show is a dangerous pleasure. Fido should be given a place in the family circle. He is worth a dozen artificial toys. God made him; he doesn't talk but he can love and he understands the way of a child. When Fido and the child are too tired to play, feed them, fondle them a make their little beds.
EDITORIAL
This little Paper-echo of a regenerated parish spirit and inspired by a desire to spread information and enthusiasm concerning parish affairs, will justify its' existence in the measure in which it serves that purpose, The only thing that could have induced the editors to undertake the great amount of work necessary for its publication was the realization of the absolute necessity of improvements in parish buildings,
That realization, coupled with implicit faith in the people of St. James Parish, gave us the feeling that through this medium a great deal could be done to facilitate the work of making these improvements. As regards the improvements, we all feel that we should have a new church sooner or later; a few of us know that it must be sooner.
To be sure, your present church is not the worst in the world -- the roof doesn't leak; it is clean, warm and almost large enough; but it is not a fitting place to house our Host, because it is not the best we can afford Him. Besides, the present quarters provide no means for taking care of natural parish growth, which is taking place and sure to continue. Furthermore, sooner or later the school children are going to notify us to hang out the "forced to vacate" sign-and when it comes to a show-down, we are with the kids: They have been imposed on long enough; we are ashamed of the way they have been cooped up in their present crowded quarters, and when they get up on their hind legs, we're going-to help them declare themselves. And we haven't said a word about the fact that we ought to get busy in order to let Mr. and Mrs. Macken know that they have not been misguided.
We said we had faith in the people of St. James, and repeat it. There is not a wage earner in this parish who would shirk his or her duty; provided they were sure of what that duty consisted of, and were reasonably , certain that each of the "other fellows” were doing theirs. There folks, is where we come in. We intend to show you just what your duty is; and we intend to convince: you that your neighbor is doing his. When we have done this, we will have justified our existence, and St. James will have their NEW CHURCH.
THE CROWNING OF THE STATUE OF BLESSED VIRGIN
The annual custom of "crowning the Statue of the Blessed Virgin in St. James church will take place Sunday, May 24th, at 7:30 p. m. The Virgin Mother Sodality will march in procession from the Parish Hall singing hymns as they proceed. When they have arrived before the altar of the Blessed Virgin, Miss Virginia Jones will place a crown on the head: of the statue, whilst the rest of the Sodality will sing the beautiful hymn, "O Mary We Crown Thee the Queen, of the May."
The honor of crowning the Statue usually has been conferred by the Sodality on young ladies of unusual virtue. The devotion was established six years ago and three of the maids, Misses Irene Barr, Collette Schram and Parthenia Pate have become nuns.
The preacher for the occasion is not yet selected, but an eloquent sermon may be presumed.
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We are informed that the Mahon Brothers have purchased a Filling Station at 6100 Oakland Ave. "Gasoline Eddie Ryan" now gets competition from "Coal-Oil Johnnie" Mahon.
MOTHER'S DAY
If I were asked to give a thought which in one word would speak
A unity of brotherhood, a sympathy complete,
A hundred happy cheery ways, a mind that knows its own,
Contented midst a throng of folk, yet peaceful when alone,
A heart that sheds its silent glow, to brighten many another,
Without a moment of delay I'd say, "You mean my mother."
Who fed me from her gentle breast,
And hushed me in her arms to rest,
And on my cheeks sweet kisses pressed
My mother
Who taught my infant lips to pray,
To love God's Holy Word and Day,
And walked in wisdom's learned way
My mother
When pain and sickness made me cry,
Who gazed upon my heavy eye,
And wept for fear that I should die
My mother
Who ran to help me when I fell,
And would some pretty story tell,
Or kiss the part to make it well
My mother
And can I ever cease to be
Affectionate and kind to thee,
Who was so very kind to me
My mother
Ah, no, the thought I cannot bear,
And if God be pleased my life to spare,
I hope. I shall reward thy care
My mother
PARISH MEETING
At the meeting of the Parish Organization on March 26 it was decided -by vote of those present to hold a Carnival on the 6th, 7th and 8th of August, at the intersection of Clayton and Childress and Wise avenue. The site was very generously donated by Mr. Sam Bellamy, who has invariably been courteous and sympathetic.
After plans were completely formulated and well under way, the order of the Police Department putting a ban on raffles of every description, including those for charity, made the Carnival a more or less hazardous undertaking. The heads of the committees after consulting with Father O'Connor, decided to withhold all activities until the parishioners were consulted.
APRIL PARISH MEETING
The April meeting held at the assembly hall on April 30 was well attended and enthusiast tic.
Discussion of Carnival
The first question considered was whether or not plans for the Carnival should be continued, and developed the following discussion:
Mr. Pierce: "I am one of the many who feel that the police ruling which prohibit church carnivals is unjust and unfair. The anti-gambling law was aimed at gamblers, and a gambler doesn't apply his arts at a charity carnival. No one goes to one of these affairs with the hope or expectation of getting rich quickly; on the contrary, a man starts out with ten dollars in dimes with the declaration 'This is all I'm going to spend.' He takes a chance with the idea of donating and at the same time getting a 'kick' out of it. I predict the Police Department will be forced to renounce this ruling, but in the meantime the ruling stands and I don't think we ought to tie our kite to a rainbow by inviting a legal; battle with them. Therefore, I move we table' the Carnival program."
Mr. John Houlihan, Chairman of the Carnival Committee: "Under the existing conditions, I feel that the only thing to do is to table the proposition and that is the consensus of opinion of the committee, but I would like to hear others express their views:
Afraid of Police
Mrs. McDonnell: "I believe the Carnival should be set aside for the present"
Mrs. Bovard : "Table it. I'm afraid of the police."
Mrs. Nixon: "Someone has to make a test case; why not St. James?" .
Motion to table the Carnival program was seconded and passed by acclamation.
All Cheating
Mr. Crotty, Chairman of the Parish Organization, said: "The chief purpose of the organization is to raise funds for a new church.' He invited discussion on other means to in. crease the parish revenue.
Mr. Frank Walsh: “Mr. Chairman, in a steel mill yard scraps of iron and junk lay strewn on the ground and the intelligent hand puts them into the furnace and fashions out of them an engine that carries freight across the continent, ships to distant ports and air planes into the clouds of Heaven. This is nothing more than an achievement in organization the scraps are arranged and unified and set to a purpose and stupendous results are accomplished. Let us all get together under the directing hand of Father O'Connor and when every member of the congregation becomes a unit in the activities for raising funds, a great force will bet set in motion and a New Church will soon be so near even the short-sighted can see it. I suggest that we concentrate on the 4%"
"Let me speak plainly," he continued; "Father O'Connor stated that the revenue of the Parish last year amounted to $375 a week. It was good. It would have been better if most of you were not like myself cheating a bit on the 4%. I believe about 85% of those supposed-to-be 4% contributors are cheating. They are not conscientious in this matter and their bad example is contagious, for instance, John says to Bill, 'Did you hear what Father O'Connor said last Sunday about the 4%?’ 'Yes, John, I heard it, but I don't pay much attention to that; I give what I like.' 'Why, Bill, how much do you give?' 'Me l give 50c a week and that’s all.' 'My!' says Bill;, 'what a chump I've been giving 4%.' That is the attitude of a great many of us.”
They Do Not Contribute
Mr. Walsh asked Father O' Connor how many were regular contributors to 4%. Father O'Connor stated that there were about two hundred of the 560 wage-earners who were 'at' least honest enough to admit they did not believe in the 4%. They were not contributing half as much as the others; they had no system of giving; they belonged to the disordered mass of scrap iron that should be organized.
Mr. Walsh continued: "Mr. Chairman, our course is quite clear; if those whose names are on the list of 4% contributors give a real 4% and the others be induced to come in, we will increase the revenue in one year $10,000 and be ready to build a church in January, 1927."
Suggests a Picnic
Mr. Blank: "I am a newcomer in the Parish but would like to do all I can to help to build the new church. I believe as long as we cannot hold the Carnival, a picnic would be a good substitute. We can raise a good deal of money from the sale of lunch, ice cream, etc., also by charging for dancing."
Motion to appoint a committee to investigate the prospects of holding a picnic carried. Amended to name the Carnival Committee, to which Mr. Blank was appointed for this work and report at the next meeting.
Better Luck
Mrs. Bovard: "I think when people give to the church thy have better luck. A family moved into our apartment who had nothing when they came and $500 when they left. They gave 10% of their earnings to the church. The husband was a carpenter during the week and a minister on Sunday."
Mr. Reese: "Mrs. Bovard! Do you mean to suggest that Father O'Connor ought to get a, job so he can pay 4% of his earnings to the church?”
Father O’Connor: “I am sure whatever success I have at preaching I would be a failure as a carpenter.” (Laughter.)
No System
Mr. Regal: “Along the 4% line seems to be the only logical and sure way of raising revenue. If we would organize and canvass the Parish and see everyone who is not paying the 4% I believe we could increase our revenue sufficiently so that we would not have to bother about Carnivals and make just as much cash. If two-thirds of the wage-earners are leaving us a surplus each year of $15,000, without doubt, we could set aside $20,000 if all contributed their full quota, and we would have a permanent revenue that would enable us to take on a bigger debt and erect a neater church. We owe this to ourselves to our children and to Almighty God. The school is congested -- on Good Friday between the hours of 12 and 3 the church was crowded though most of the men were at work. A new church will be an inspiration to the Parish.
Mr. Nick Nolan :"You may lead a horse to water but you cannot make him drink. We cannot compel the rest of the parishioner to pay 4% but we may induce them to do so if we handle them in the correct manner."
Selling the New Church
Mr. Frank Walsh: "Each one should consider himself a salesman. He should talk 4% to his neighbor, and sell the idea of a new church to the Parish."
Mr. Regal: "We can get everyone to contribute if they realize the conditions that make a new church necessary. Talk to other parishioners like men in other organizations talk to one another. A pledge system could be used."
Mr. Hodnett: "A steady source of income is most needed and is a thing that would be best for the parish."
Pledge Card System
Mr. Heil: "I suggest a house-to-house canvass of wage-earners. Ask each one, regardless of what he has done in the past, to contribute 4% of his income to the church. We do not want to know how much money he will give, nor is it my idea to investigate any man's past donations. Let us get a card system and canvass the parish, not only the slackers but the good people; organize teams; get each wage-earner to sign a pledge card. It should be possible to do this in a couple of weeks."
Mr. Crotty: "Mr. Heil's idea is excellent.
Mr. Hodnett : "Following Mr. Heil's suggestion, I move that a committee of sufficient number be appointed. This committee to be known as the Pledge Committee.” Motion carried.
Mr. Crotty requested Father OConnor to name this committee. Father O'Connor said that every man present at the meeting who has been paying 4% should consider himself a member of the Pledge Committee. The following were later appointed:
C. Heil, P.J. Ludden, .D. J. Coad. S..J. Gittins, W. T. Boman, D. F. Collins, Thomas Williford, Bernard Brady, Henry Hugeback Louis Regel, Wm. Hawkins, Ray Dolan, F. Walsh, R. E. Pierce, G S. Kletzker, Ben Hawkins, John McDerby, F. M. Graves, Bernard Quinn, Aloysius Dolan, John G. Houlihan, W. G. Saxton, J. Crotty, M. C. Coad, W. J. O'Brien, C. K. Stiff, Joseph Hruby, Mike Maloney, Thos. Duggan, John Brady, Geo. Wiber, H., F. Hodnett,, W. D. Reese, J. H. Seager, P. H. Murphy, Leo Hefele, J. P. Harris, E. A. Dyer, W. D. Blank, Win. Henkel, Henry McCauley and J. P. O'Gorman.
This committee will meet at Rectory Wednesday evening, May 13, at 8 p. m.
Mr. Heil: "I believe the names of those who sign pledge cards should be printed in the parish paper, 'LET'S GO.' It would be just as well to know WHO IS WHO in this parish."
Motion made and seconded that names of those signing pledge cards be published; the number each month to be left to the decision of the committee in charge of the publication.
Mr. Regal then arose and asked what the meeting intended to do on Mr. Hodnett's motion about appointing a pledge committee. Everyone laughed and Jim Coad asked Mr. Regal when he awoke.
Father O'Connor: "Before any action is taken by this committee the minutes of this meeting should be published in 'LET'S GO, so that the parishioners will know such a committee has been appointed. The committee should be ready to act on the seconds Monday following the publication of the pamphlet. It is best that members be not appointed to visit parishioners in their immediate vicinity. I would suggest that the committee also take a census.”
Taking a Census
Mr. Duggan: "Father O'Connor is the best 4% talker in the parish. Let him take the census and also talk 4%. He converted me to the 4% system. I thought that a man with four or five children should not be expected to contribute in the same ratio as a man with only one. I was opposed to the Carnival from the first. One knows exactly how much, he must give under the 4% system. If a man goes to a carnival with his family and runs out of money he’s in a poor place to borrow.
Mr. Houlinhan: “The committee should make it clear they are not going to make an effort to find out how much anyone's salary is nor how much he will contribute, but simply get one to promise to pay 4 cents to the church out of every dollar he might earn.”
Mr. Pierce: "I think the committee should tell everyone which of his neighbors has signified a willingness to contribute. The knowledge might help him to sign the card."
Father Pohl
Father Pohl was then called on and greeted with applause. Father Pohl said: "I don't understand what the noise is about! The suggestions made are all very good. The parish books show that when one contributes others will follow. However, after the pledges are signed that will not mean that the 4% is in the parish treasury. There are a number of persons whose names are on the books, who call themselves 4% contributors, but have only one or two entries on their accounts -- the balance of the page is beautifully white. The pledges must be followed up in order that payment may be made. Keep up the spirit shown in the meeting tonight."
Thanks to Mr. and Mrs. Macken
Motion made, seconded and carried that a rising vote of thanks be offered Mr. Macken and his wife for the gift of a location for a new church, also that a committee of three be appointed to call on them and thank them. Meeting arose in expression of their appreciation and committee appointed was Mrs. Bovard,. Mrs. McDonnell and Mrs. Pahl.
Meeting adjourned.
HOLY NAME SOCIETY
Easter Sunday morning at the Solemn High Mass, two hundred and fifty men and boys of the Holy Name Society of St James Church approached Holy Communion and one hundred and thirty five others went at the 7:30 o'clock mass. It was an inspiration to those who witnessed so large an attendance and justified the good opinion expressed by Mr. Josias, President of the Arch-diocesan Union, at the last meeting when he said St. James was not only the first branch established in St. Louis, but also the most regular in their attendance at Holy Communion.
The Holy Name Society goes to communion on the second Sunday of each month at the 6 o'clock mass during the summer months. All members are now assisting in reviving the old custom of assembling at the old church hall before mass begins, and marching in a body to the church, taking seats to the left of the center aisle. Holy Name badges -are worn which adds to the splendor of the spectacle. .
Then there is, the monthly meeting on the Monday evening following the communion Sunday. These meetings are not so well attended .as they might be. Members have the impression that they are tiresome business affairs, but that is not so; they are really a devotional exercise, which begins at 8 o'clock, continues for a period of only one hour. There is a short business session of twenty or thirty - , minutes followed by a very interesting talk by Father O'Connor, the Spiritual Director, on the life of some Saint. These talks are indeed inspiring and should be heard especially by every youth in the parish. After the meeting has closed those who desire to do so may adjourn to the school hall where several forms of recreation are afforded."
BAPTISMS
March
April
ST. JAMES BASE BALL TEAM
Line Up
Substitutes:
Manager, Tony Palumbo
Captain, Frank Strattman
=====================================
Father O'Connor's going to get a job
And go to work each day;
Dinner bucket on his arm
With lively step, and gay
And when his daily work is done,
And he is homeward bent;
St. James will be the gainer
Of another four per cent.
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SCHOOL CHILDREN SEE THE ELEPHANTS
Sergt. Eugene Martineau is the most popular man in St. Louis Police Department in the estimation of the children of St. James Parochial School. He procured for them a pass to the Police Circus. On Tuesday, April 28th, the Sisters, Father O'Connor and 280 little tots were at the Coliseum laughing at the clowns and through the kindness of good Sergt. Meyers and the Police, partaking of soda and popcorn. One of the clowns warmed his hands over the blaze of Vivian Saxton's red hair and put his finger in his mouth when Sister Alphonses looked at him. The elephants climbing on the tubs were as attractive to the children, as the ladies who swung on the trapeze or rode on the horses. It was a very delightful day; the Sisters and Father O'Connor seemed to be as happy as the children. There was a little difficulty in procuring cars in the evening during the business rush. but the discipline of the children and the watchful care of the nuns made the trip a happy event long to he remembered.
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Father O'Connor was a booster for the Police Salary Increase Bill which recently was voted by the legislature and was signed by the Governor. $35.00x4%x12 months = Gosh! Ain't that Grand. And just look how many policemen there are living in the parish,
Officer -- We're truly happy
In the success of your attempt;
But when you get your raise, remember
That it isn't tax exempt.
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Ray Dolan is a clever young man and keeps his wits well ailed, but he just turned a deal that has him guessing. He sold himself a house, and bought it back from himself; and has spent most of the time since in trying to figure out how much commission he made out of the deal.
Better call in "Bill" Hawkins on this one, Ray.
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There is a story going the rounds to the effect that a certain young man in the confessional admitted to Father O'Connor that he had missed Mass on five consecutive Sundays. "What's that, five Sundays l What was the matter with you? "Why Father, this is the hunting season and I have been going out on Saturday." Oh, Is that so? Where did you go? Get anything?
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SPORTS
The Home Team is decorating the vestibule of 'the church with Pennants. The Soccer Team in the Parochial School League in Forest Park Division won the Championship for years, 1923-1924. This year the base ball team are going to increase the decoration, Capt. Fanky Strattman says. In the opening game they cleaned up St. Cronans 26 to 14. It was a runaway for St. James. This was evident from the first inning when they hammered St. Cronans all over the field, and made three home runs. Waldo Bisso, first to bat, slugged the ball into the bleachers, and arriving over the plate was elevated on the shoulders of the enthusiastic fans and carried around the diamond. The procession halted to watch Bernard Thiele drive the ball almost out of the park. When he arrived he was embraced by a crowd who kissed him; rolled over him and rolled over one another several times. The enthusiasm did not abate till Frank Strattman. was thrown out at second. The whole team showed unusual skill.. Billy Corbett, shortstop, distinguished himself by catching three successive flies. Manager Palumbo was well pleased with his .team and says he is going to show St. Margarets and the New Cathedral boys that the kids from Clayton and Tamm Ave. are the real Babe Ruths of local base ball. St. James played the Dewey School Team on April; 27th and beat them 24 to 3. The Dewey boys say a few of their best players were missing. It remains to be seen whether they can hold down the score of St. James in the next game.
OUR ADVERTISERS
We call especial attention to our liberal advertisers and cordially recommend them to our readers. 1n giving this paper their patronage they materially aid the cause and we should show our appreciation, as Catholics, by giving them our generous support.
The fact that a merchant advertises in "LETS GO" is a guarantee that he considers your patronage worth having. It is a guarantee that he: believes you a desirable customer and is willing to patronize "LET US GO" to secure you. Such people are worthy of your patronage and you should always scan "LET-US GO" to see who they are.
THE ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
The Association met at breakfast in the Parish Hall, May 24th, after receiving Communion in a body at the Church. One hundred and twenty members were present and included many from outside parishes. It was a home-coming that was very delightful. Dan Murphy, and the other Officers were much elated, as the breakfast and Communion were a new departure from the traditions of the Society.
Alumni breakfast photo from 1925
The Alumni Association was organized in 1909, and includes the graduates since 1904. The first class consisted of Jos. L. Brady, Edward Cody and Joseph Gibbons.
After breakfast a business meeting was held and the following were elected to office
“Welcome Class of ‘25’”
We have crossed the one way river
That has borne us from your school;
Where we learned to be obedient
And apply the golden rule.
Where the patient sisters taught us
All that any child should know,
So that we would not be backward
In the ranks where we must go.
But no matter where we wander
In this world of strife and woe,
We will be with you in spirit
Any place that we may go.
For this reason we have banded
Our Alumni year by year,
That in stepping 'cross the river
You may do so without fear.
You may join our band well knowing
That your comrades rank and file,
With St. James are linked in spirit
And will make your stay worth while.
So we welcome you new comers
Graduates mean added names,
Faithful to our Alma Mater
Honors too, to old St. James.
T. Aloysius Mahon, 5-8-25.
TO ST. JAMES STUDENTS
Well, how are the essay writers getting along?
Here's a red hot tip, kiddos: That dad of yours can think of a whole flock of reasons why he should be paying his 4%, so it is up to you to get around him in the right way and make him 'fes up.
Ask Dad! He knows.
And now, because I like you, and want you all -- to win these big prizes, I am going to tell you how I would go about writing this essay.
I would start out by drawing a word-picture (your teacher will tell you what a word. picture is) of a beautiful church standing on the magnificent site which Mr. and Mrs. Macken so generously donated to us, and how pleasant it would be to attend there.
I would also picture what a wonderful pleasant, clean, comfortable and healthy school we would have if we were given the space now used for our Church, and which belongs to the School.
Then I would point out the great pride both my Daddy and I would feel in the knowledge that he had done his part in making this picture a reality. That he had not been a slacker when this great work was undertaken.
I would put into words the warm feeling of pride I would have in knowing that this beautiful church, finished, stood as a monument to commemorate the many sacrifices my good daddy made to aid in its completion.
Now jump in St. Jamesites, and let's have a grand lot of essays. We want every one of you to win a prize. if you can. We are going to publish the three winners, and we want them .to be GOOD. There are a lot of other reasons why Dad should pay: make him help you think of them.
I'm just a kind of a little tot
And can't be expected to know a lot;
'Bout writin' poems, an' essay's, an' such
'Cause these are things I aint studied much.
So please excuse if I make mistakes
And remember I havn't all that it takes,
To be a great writer, but some day, who knows?
I may be one; and so here goes.
MAY BAPTISMS
Robert James Houlihan, 6744 Oakland Ave.
Robert Edward Droege, 6400 Wise Ave.
PARISH MEETING
On May 18th the Carnival Committee met at the Parish Hall to talk over the arrangements for the Picnic which was favorably voted upon at the April Parish Meeting.
Mr. Wm. Blank was selected to act as Chairman of a Picnic Committee with Messrs. Joe Hruby, Reece, Walsh and Pierce assisting.
The impression was forcibly made on the Committee that they were to arrange a Children's Picnic -- not alone for the school children but those older ones who have left the school. Father O'Connor made the point that we should devote as much effort to holding the young people after graduation as before, and Mr. Hruby was especially selected to serve on the Committee to assure these young people that their wishes would be given proper consideration.
Dancing
With these instructions, the Picnic Committee proceeded to procure grounds which would afford first-class dancing facilities and, after a thorough investigation, decided upon Bartold's Grove as the one among those available best suited for our purposes.
It was decided to bend every effort and spare no expense to give St. James Parish the best picnic possible, and the Committee proceeded with that idea in view.
Big Parade
At the Parish Meeting on May 28th, Messrs. Blank and Pierce. speaking for the Picnic Committee, reported having arranged to have a big parade starting from the School at 9:00 a.m. on Thursday, June llth, headed by a 10 piece Band and comprising every automobile attainable, and augmented by several double-deck busses. This Parade is to proceed over a long route covering all parts of the Parish and giving the children a ride which they would enjoy. The school children will be furnished free transportation to and from the grounds, and all others at 20c each.
Hot Lunch
It was further reported having arranged to serve hot lunch to all who desired, to give a euchre during the day and to furnish ample entertainment for the grown-ups as well as the children. Excellent prizes are being procured for a large variety of races which are being arranged by Mr. Jim Kelly. The Band will entertain at the grounds until 1:30 P.M. From 4.00 P.M. to 12:00 P.M. -- the well-known La Paradis Orchestra will play for dancing. During the day a ball game between the married and single men has been arranged.
No Raffles
As no raffle or lottery devices are permitted on the grounds, these forms of entertainment will not be indulged in.
The Committee especially desires to obtain as many machines as possible for use in the Parade. All who can aid in this capacity will please report as soon as possible to the Committee, or by phoning Benton 1534-W.
Don't Forget Children's Entertainment June 12th and 14th
St. James Picnic June 11th.
MOTHERS' CLUB MINSTREL
The Minstrel Maids of the Mothers' Club displayed their arts, Sunday evening, May 17th, at the school hall, and as is customary with them, scored a huge "WOW." In spite of inclement weather, and the fact that the show had been presented twice previously, the hall was well filled and the show greatly enjoyed.
Among the outstanding features were the "coon shouting" numbers of Conroy and Gittins, Mayme Brady's Soprano and Katherine Hefele's Contralto, the dancing numbers of Mrs. B. Quinn, and solos of Mrs. Oates and Mrs. Bisso; and the antics of Mrs. Kavanaugh. Mrs, Plengemeir made a stunning man and clever interlocutor; anything but the "jack-ass" Mrs. Quinn called her. Mrs. Ray Dolan, in plaintive tones, expressed an interest in the whereabouts of "Sally."
Gittins and Conroy, representing Linda Lee and her "boy friend" were humorous and decidedly robust. Conroy’s trousers were short in length but long on girth. After half a dozen encores this pair of comedians, to show their versatility, gave a studied and well executed rendition of vocal discord.
This being a church paper, we don't dare publish the jokes. They were for the most part, scandalous but entertaining. We do not need to tax our imagination to picture any one of the performers boxing their youngster's ears for using the same language. Nevertheless, it is the writer's opinion that all present enjoyed the show as thoroughly as he did. The Revs. O'Connor and Pohl were probably hovering somewhere about the immediate vicinity. The only thing lacking, was tambourines and bones; in the old days these two "props" were essential parts of any minstrel, though they may have been eliminated from modern minstrelsy.
The School Room Scene was hilariously funny. Adele Conroy in the role of "tough," with her mischievous side-kick Corine Gittins, entertained cleverly with their ludicrous horseplay. It was in this act that Mrs. Quinn gave a very good presentation of the Spanish Fandango, and that Kath Hefele, in her rich contralto, lent color to the touching tribute to "Mother," which brought the show to an end.
FOUR PER CENT PLEDGES
It was decided at a Parish Meeting to publish a partial list of wage earners each month who have pledged themselves to pay 4% of their income to the church. The parish was divided into nineteen districts. The best district was that section of West Park and Wise Ave., west of Tamm and east of Childress.The following are the names of subscribers in the district visited by collectors P. J. Regan and Pat Murphy:
THE PARISH ENTERTAINS THE MOTHERS' CLUB
On Sunday, May 17th, Father O'Connor in behalf of the Parish, entertained the Mothers' Club at breakfast. There were 41 members present. The Club went to Communion at the 7:30 o'clock mass. The sermon delivered by Father O'Connor was appropriate to the occasion, Mother's Day, and was an eloquent tribute to Christian Motherhood.
After mass a frugal breakfast was served by Messrs. Eddie Ryan, John D. Bersch, George Wiber and Will Hense. The cooking was elegant and the service was perfect; one of the guests was heard remarking "I bet they are accustomed to getting their own 'breakfasts," and one of the younger members added "It is about time men were taught something, my husband brings a cup of coffee to me in bed every morning before he goes to work," whereupon Mrs. Bovard shook her :head in a disapproving manner and solemnly ejaculated "what is the world coming to?"
After breakfast, Mrs. Helen Dolan Walsh sang Mother Machree, Mrs. Catherine Hefele recited "I'd give up Heaven and all to set Old Ireland free," Mrs. Barney Quinn danced and the climax of the occasion was reached when Father O'Connor arose and in behalf of the Mothers' Club presented to the President, Mrs. Bovard, a signet ring. He said in part, "I want to thank The Mothers' Club for their wonderful achievements in the past in this parish, most organizations, when a priest turns his back for fifteen minutes, are in a state of collapse, not so the Mothers' Club they continue of their own efforts, and this is due mainly to organization; ten people organized can accomplish more than a hundred unorganized, no matter how good .their intention. About forty men are now organized to assist me in the Parish drive for a New Church and if I had about the same number of women there is no limit to what could be accomplished in this Parish. The wonderful work of the Mothers' Club can be attributed mostly to the unselfish, untiring efforts of the President, Mrs. Bovard, who organized this society and who has been the backbone of the organization. The time has arrived for something more substantial than thank you and in behalf of the Mothers' Club I wish :to present your worthy president, Mrs. Bovard, this small token of appreciation and esteem.'.' Amidst much excitement, laughing, handclapping and shouting to put it on the wedding ring finger, a call went out for a widower to place it there and it looked for awhile as though Mr. Hense would be chosen, but the lot finally fell to Father O'Connor. You have often heard of people being struck speechless; that explains Mrs. Bovard's condition exactly. She said she had come prepared to thank the club for their kind cooperation, also the men who were responsible for the wonderful breakfast, but she had been taken so entirely off her guard that she felt utterly helpless. She managed, however, to thank the club and Father O'Connor for the token and assured them that she would always treasure highly this ring as one of her dearest possessions.
Florence Wiber is in the market for a car, tell the automobile agents, she won five gallons of oil after breakfast.
Mrs. Nixon wants a new hat, said she had it picked, but refuses to divulge who is wearing it, so ladies watch your hats.
BESSIE O'GORMAN
On Monday morning, May 25th, Mrs. Jim Gallaher, better known perhaps as Bessie O'Gorman, gave birth to a baby boy. They are both very well.
Bessie has been an advocate of large families. She often said she hoped she would have as many children as Mrs. Dulany Reese, or at least ten.
After this, her first experience in motherhood, someone asked if she still wanted to have ten children and she replied, "yes, but- I would rather adopt the other nine."
ANTONY PALUMBO
"Tony," the popular student and Altar boy of St. James Parish suffered recently an acute. attack of appendicitis. When he arrived at. St. John's Hospital his condition was declared serious. Dr. Glennon operated upon him at once, and found a ruptured appendix. For several days he lingered between life and death. The Dominican Sisters stormed Heaven for his recovery and many of the parishioners added their earnest supplications.
He is now out of danger and is expected to be back on the job in a week or two.
Among those present at the Alumni Breakfast was Mrs. Helen Scherzinger (Helen Finn) who was the first Alumni bride. Helen is now the mother of six children, and one of the most conscientious contributors to the 4% collection.
DISSENSION
A serious argument took place between Ed. Ryan and Ed. Pierce, following The Mothers' Club Breakfast, of which Ryan was one of the chief perpetrators. Pierce took Ryan to task for the effect the breakfast had on his domestic relations. After 16 years of careful training he complained, Ryan and his cohorts had spoiled a wife who, "Lord knows, was hard enough to handle." All he now hears is "why don't you fix breakfast?" "don't see why a few women like Mrs. Ryan got only good men."
MOTHERS' CLUB MINSTREL AGAIN
The Mothers' Club Minstrel is like Abie's Irish Rose, it will stay as long as it is wanted. The third performance will be given in the Airdome, at 1360 Tamm Avenue, Sunday evening, June 28th, at 8 o'clock. The people are clamoring for it.
The first performance was given in Yale Hall, St. Patrick's night and was incessantly applauded by a full house; it was presented the second time, May 10th, in the Church Hall, which was crowded. It is a splendid show and is the essence of comedy. This may be the last chance to see it. Tickets cost only 35c.
MARRIAGES
The bans of marriage have been called for Vernon Smith, son of Joseph and Louise Smith, of St. James Parish, and Louise Carr, daughter of James and Norah Carr, of Immaculate Conception Parish, Maplewood.
FUNERALS
The church does not permit Solemn Funeral Services for Careless Catholics who die without receiving the Last Sacraments.
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It has been decided to hold the Annual Banquet at 6:30 P. M., on June 21st, at the City Club. Minimum plate cost, $2.00.
EDITORIAL
Parish Revenue
The parish revenue for the year 1924 was approximately $20,000; practically all of which came from 4% contributors. Estimated on a 4% basis, this figure would indicate a $500,000 annual income for these contributors, and, as they constitute 65% of the wage earners, the total annual income for the parish would seem to be in the neighborhood of $750,000 if all wage earners were contributing 4%, the amount available for parish affairs would be $30,000 yearly; 80%c, or $24,000 of which could be placed in the New Church Fund.
At the beginning of the present year the New Church fund totaled $45,000. Adding to this figure $24,000 for each of the years, 1925 and 1926, together with $3000 interest accruing for that period, the fund at the end of 1926 would total $96,000.
It is no uncommon thing for people to contribute 10% of their earnings to the support of a church. We do not feel, therefore that 4% is too much to ask from any parishioner. To the man earning $5.00 per day, 4 cents out each dollar would total 20 cents daily. How long would that man hesitate to buy two ten cent cigars? Yet he holds back when that twenty cents means so much to the Church.
OREGON SCHOOL LAW
As we go to press we learn that the Oregon School Law is declared unconstitutional by the U. S. Supreme Court. This insidious piece of legislation, conceived in intolerance, fostered by bigots, and aimed at the Catholic Church, was intended to hamper Catholic growth by destroying the Parochial School. It received what it deserved, the unanimous condemnation of the Supreme Court Judges.
HEBER NATIONS AND HIS DAD
Heber is a chip of the old block. His father is a lawyer and presumably a man of intelligence. He is a professional bigot who has used his pen to foster Anti-Catholic prejudice in Missouri and his intelligence to commercialize the brew he has fermented in the brain of back wood illiterates. If he were honest in his convictions his misplaced zeal might he overlooked, but his hypocritical patriotism and virtue is in keeping with his son's false protestations of zeal for prohibition. His virtuous indignation at the wets won him leadership and place among the dries. His aim was self aggrandizement. His professions were hypocritical. The fanatics have even now difficulty in believing that he sold out.
THE PARISH CENSUS
Exact information was obtained by the Parish Committee who recently took a parochial census, and solicited wage earners to pledge 4%, of their earnings to the Church.
There are six hundred and thirty wage earners in the parish, and three hundred and ninety-six families. Ten per cent of these are Catholics in name only; they do not attend mass on Sundays, and are not very much concerned about the building of a new Church. There is another six per cent of families of foreign origin, who speak English with difficulty and whose European traditions are against church support. They do not feel at home in English speaking congregations, and they contribute little or nothing to the Church. Many of them send their children to the Parochial School, their presence necessitating more teachers and more space. There is also a small percentage of the congregation who live close to the Parish boundaries, who attend the nearest Church and consider this a sufficient reason for not identifying themselves with their own Parish. These three classes constitute the rag-tag and bob-tail element, who cannot be counted upon for Church support. They constitute about twenty per cent of the congregation, or one-fifth of the families and wage earners.
Eliminating these from the list of contributors, there remains five-hundred and four wage earners and three hundred and seventeen families in St. James Parish.
THE CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINMENT
They are coming again and they always hold the crowd. Two hundred and fifty children will be on the stage. No one except a child can play the part of a child, and its attempts to cover up its errors are more amusing than its best performance. The unexpected always happens at the children's entertainment. This year thrills will be provided to make you smile. Look out for the-Baby Room in their action songs, Chinaman and Raindrops, they will bow to the audience in oriental costumes and pig tails.
The third grade are having something very special in the way of fairies, there will be white fairies, black fairies, good fairies, bad fairies; fairies who sing, fairies who dance, fairies who expect to win your generous applause.
The senior boys will present a sketch "Around the Camp Fire." There will be plenty of action, drills, songs and humorous situations. Leave it to the boys.
The senior girls will present a play "Beyond the Gates." It opens a vista of the future and presents the initial flapper and her dreams of Prince Charming. Of course she will have enough of good advisers to keep her on the road of righteousness. Clowns, harvesters and happy workers will enliven the scene with bright costumes, dances and choruses.
The performance will take place June 12 and 14, in the Airdome, 1360 Tamm Ave. at 8 P. M. Don't get your dates mixed, remember Friday and Sunday, after the picnic.
Diplomas will be presented the second night of the entertainment at the airdome to the class of 1925, by Rev. P. J. O'Connor. Rev. M. J. Stritch, S. J., well known orator and lecturer will address the graduates.
Graduates of 1925
CROWNING OF THE STATUE
The evening was cold, those in procession were compelled to wear their coats till they arrived at the door of the church. The snow white dresses impressed one with the idea that the marchers came out of the clouds of Heaven.
The Young Ladies Sodality led the procession and crowned the Statue of the Blessed Virgin. They were followed by the Angelic Warfare Society and the girls of the First Communion Class came in the rear. The line presented the graduation from innocent childhood to budding womanhood as they moved around the church singing the Litany of the Blessed Virgin. When they knelt before the altar of Our Lady and consecrated themselves to the Virgin Mary, one realized how earnest the Church strives to impress on womanhood the grandeur of Purity.
Rev. Daniel Daly of St. Marks Church preached in a voice that was as soft as an organ peal, a sermon that earnest devotion alone could inspire. He was assisted at Solemn Benediction by Rev. Robert E. McKeon, and Rev. John P. Ryan
YOUNG MOTHER
The spoiled child is a calamity to himself and to his associates (all through life). He is usually willful, selfish, irritable, and disagreeable. At home he sulks and kicks and cries unless he is given his own way; at- school, he incurs the displeasure of his companions; they are always picking at him; and he rarely wins the admiration of his teacher. In later years, at work, his mind is often in a turmoil. He has little peace; he picks quarrels with his fellow laborers; he becomes suspicious of one, holds a grudge against another; the boss gets on his nerves, he is not getting a square deal; he goes home with a grouch and takes it out on his family -- he craves for love and like a child who breaks its toys and weeps for their loss, he wounds the hearts of those he loves.
Heredity has a bearing on ones character, so has the emotional outbursts of the mother whilst bearing and the food she eats. The Doctors attribute much of ones natural disposition to gland development. A child's brain grows very rapidly until the age of five or six -- during this period the baby needs rest and quiet -- jumping him up and down, watching him blink at lights may seriously injure the delicate nervous mechanism.
It is natural for a child to be willful and selfish -- this disposition must be curbed, children have to be taught to consider others -- the parents' decision should never be open to question -- the child should be taught the lesson of blind obedience. The parent must win the admiration and confidence of the child. This imposes a high standard of living and talking and thinking on the parents -- displays of anger are the worst example for a child.
The spoiled parent has many children in the penitentiary.
CHURCH DIRECTORY
Pastors
Masses
Sunday and New Year's Day -- 6.00, 7:30, 9:00, 10:00.
Holidays -- 6:00, 7:30, 9:00.
Week Days -- 6:30 and 8:15 during Lent and the Months of May and October.
Holy Hour
Thursday before First Friday at 7:30 P.M.
Instructions for Public School Children
Fridays during school year at 4 P. M., and every Sunday after 9 o'clock Mass.
Confessions
Saturdays from 4:30 to 6:00 P.M. and 7:30 to 9:00 P. M.
Sunday mornings from 7:00 to 7:25 A. M. for the aged and those who are not free to go on Saturdays.
On the eve of solemn festivals and First Fridays -- 3:30 to 4:30 and from 7:30 to 8:30 P. M.
Special confessors on Eves of Christmas and Easter.
Meetings
Parish meetings the last Thursday of each month at 8 P. M. All invited.
Mother's Club meeting first Friday of each month at 2:30 P. M.
Virgin Mother's Sodality -- Tuesday after first Sunday at 8:00 P. M.
Holy Name Society -- Monday after 2nd Sunday of the month at 8:00 P. M.
St. Anne’s Sodality -- ,Tuesday after 3rd Sun. day at8:00P.M.
Visiting Hours to Rectory
Preferably from 8 to 10 A.M. and from 6:30 to 8:00 P. M.
Baptisms
Sundays at 3:30 P. M. sharp. Sponsors ought to be practicing Catholics.
Sick Calls
Don't delay; the pastors will not be responsible for sick calls over the telephone. In all cases confer with one of the Priests.
Bells
Church bells are rung for the Angelus at 6.00 A. M., 12:00 and 6:00 P. M. Also a quarter of an hour before services.
Church Dues
Each wage earner is expected to give 4c out of each dollar earned; for maintenance of priests. sisters, ordinary parish expense and for a building fund. No pew rent or special collections except at Christmas and Easter.
MR. BEN HAWKINS
We share the pride which our friend and fellow parishioner, Mr. Ben Hawkins must feel, in the great honor recently conferred upon him. Mr. Hawkins entered the contest of the Art Students League of New York, knowing that he was matching his work against the best of America's Artists, and came out winner of a two-year scholarship too the New York Art School. We feel this great honor the more keenly because of the fact that Ben has always been one of us, he played with us, attended school with us, and: grew up to manhood with us.
We extend our congratulations and wish him luck.
Bennie had a little lamb,
He modeled when a boy.
He tried to teach it lots of tricks,
Tho' it was but a toy.
It went with him to school, one day,
In the pocket of his coat;
And when the teacher took it from him
Benny cried "She's got my goat."
SPORTS
Our school boys played eleven games in the Parochial School League contest Forest Park Division, and lost the trophy to Holy Angel Team by one run. It was hard luck. They were the best team in the division. Had the Cathedral or St. Cronin’s boys won a game or two the contest would be keener and the result doubtful; however, our boys have no kick. They are real sports. They say they were beaten and they offer no alibi. They congratulate Father Kelly and his team.
Students 28 (14 boys and 14 girls)
Top Row: William Corbett, John Fannen, Bernard Thiele, Renard Gruner, Frank Strathman, John Doering, Maurice Sullivan, Orvad Harnes, Norman Fehrensen, Joseph Hussman.
Second Row: Angelo Pilla, Emmet Jones, Regina Bernsen, M. Hester Bovard, Mary McCauley, Estelle Coad, Evelyn Lutz, Loraine Lutz, Joseph Phelan, Waldo Bisso.
Front Row: Sylvia Blazitz, Rosalie May, Rose Gioia, Dorothy Brady, Rev. P.J. O'Connor, Dolores Brady, Margaret M. Huff, Lillian Saxton, Christina Hobbs.
CHILDREN'S ENTERTAINMENT AND GRADUATION
On June 14th at 8 P.M. a crowd of about 800 persons assembled in the air-dome at the back of St. James Old Church to witness the Commencement Exercises of St. James Parochial School. Twenty-eight children were awarded diplomas by Rev. P.J. O'Connor. Rev. M.J. Stritch, S.J., who gave the address, humerously commented on the fact that the class consisted of 14 boys and 14 girls who graduated on the 14th of the month and were each 14 years old. The exercises were advanced because ominous clouds gathered and an electric disturbance flickered in the distant heavens.
The entertainment feature was repeatedly applaudedd. The children showed excellent training. They went through the various numbers with confidence and accuracy. The costumes were rich in color and material and were markedly appropriate. It must have taken a great deal of time and patience to stage so cleverly, the many children who performed.
The entertainment and play were deferred Friday evening to Saturday because of the rain. The attendance was not as great as on Sunday evening. Notwithstanding this drawback the total net receipts of the entertainment and graduation was close to $500 and greater than on any former occasion. The Sisters express themselves very pleased with the attendance and thank the parents of the children and the other supporters and friends of St. James School who co-operated with them so earnestly to make the exercise a success.
CHILDREN'S ESSAY CONTEST
The contest on "Why Daddy Should Pay His 4% Quota" has brought out some clever essays. There were in fact so many good ones that the selecting of the winners was a difficult task.
This contest was inaugurated the 15th of May by an announcement to the children that "LET'S GO" would pay cash prizes of $5.00, $3.00 and $2.00 for the three best essays on "Why Daddy Should Pay His 4% Quota," The contest closed on June 12th, and the judges carefully considered all entries and chose the winners without knowing their names
The rules of the contest were:
The judges have carefully examined each entry, and made their awards as impartially as possible. Following are the three winners:
First Prize $5.00
PHILOMENA SHAFFREY
6320 West Park Avenue
Every Daddy should be willing to give four per cent of his salary to help build a New Church because if Mr. and Mrs. Macken who are not parishioners are good enough to give us the property, Daddy should be willing to give four percent for material.
Now if Daddy can go to the ball game. the movies and many other amusements, and pay fifteen or twenty cents for cigars, he certainly can give 4% of his salary to help build a new Church: even though he should have to make some sacrifices.
There are so many beautiful theatres and other buildings. why can't we have a nice church. We ought to have as beautiful a church as other parishes.
Another reason why Daddy should pay 4% is that the children are very crowded in St James School and need more class rooms.
St. James Parish was established sixty years ago, and to think we haven't a nice church yet!
The school children saved their pennies during Lent and Father O'Connor put the money in the bank to be used for the purchase of a pipe organ for the New Church. Father O'Connor would not ask for 4% if it was too much. You know that the money is going towards a New Church, so, LET'S GO men, women and children, pay your 4%.
Second Prize $3.00
DOROTHY BRADY
6235 Victoria Ave.
Daddy should give his 4% quota to St. James Church because:
First -- Father O’Connor, who is the leader of the parish for a long time has seen the urgent necessity for a New Church which would be located on the beautiful terrace donated by Mr. and Mrs. Macken and which is across from the present church.
Secondly – Because our parish is one of the earliest founded in the City, and is one of the very few that has never had a church building of which to be proud.
Third – because a representative number of parishioners believe the 4% system of raising the funds is the most just and quickest.
Fourth -- Because, with a New Church all its beauty and charm, we would take more pride in our parish and would have more devotion, and it would fill our hearts with joy to hear a big new organ peeling forth hymns of praise to God.
Third Prize, $2.00
VIRGINIA COAD
6433 Lloyd Avenue
For years St. James has been trying to get together money to build a New Church. It seems as though all former methods have been too slow. Now we have the 4% plan which I hope will succeed.
I think my Daddy should pay 4% because St. James should provide a suitable place for the adoration of our Lord; because we need the space where our church now is to provide people facilities for our education; because God has given him health and strength to earn money, and therefore he owes our Lord a portion of his earnings.
Still another reason why Daddy and all Daddies in the parish should pay 4% is, St. James is an old parish and yet its people cannot point toward their Church and say “there is a building worthy of the name.” However, if all the Daddies and other wage earners get together now and pay 4% we will soon have a New Church which will be a fitting dwelling for our Lord.
I am glad my father belongs to the “LET’S GO” and is paying the 4%.
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Other authors whose efforts merited special mention were:
SCHOOL PATRONS' ASSOCIATION
The St. James School Patrons' Association met on the 9th of June and took active steps to support the Picnic Committee. The "Mothers" branch of this organization took over a large share of this work and performed admirably the tasks assigned them. Cashiers were named to serve for two hour periods throughout the day and evening.
Messrs. Blank, John Houlihan. J. Coad and Pahl were appointed on a committee to handle the refreshments at the Picnic.
Messrs. Blank and Pierce reported arrangements completed.
Mr. John Kelly was appointed on the balloon concession. Mrs. Sam Gittins appointed for Fish Pond.
Mr. Lederle turned in a long list of donations from firms with whom he does business. Trucks were offered for picnic day: one by Mr. Harry Huger and the other by the Roxana Petroleum Co., obtained through Eddie Ryan.
After much discussion it was decided that a program of races should be arranged for the St. James School children only and several additional in which all would be allowed to compete.
A plan to give each school child two five cent purchase tickets was discouraged by Father O'Connor who contended that the committee would be establishing a precedent which might cause difficulties in the future. He pointed out that the school picnics usually are affairs which he is forced to handle without financial assistance, and that if given free tickets this year, the children would expect them in the future when it might not be possible to give them. The meeting voted to abandon the plan.
It was also voted that the proceeds of the picnic, it any, be turned over to the treasurer of the School Patrons Association.
ST. JAMES PICNIC
The picnic held at Bartold's Grove on June 11th was a gala and successful affair. So many people turned out as to give the impression than those unfortunates unable to attend must have been terribly lonesome.
Big Parade
The day was ideal, and the festivities began at 9 o'clock with a monster parade made up to three double deck motor busses and a large line of machines gaily decorated, to the inspiring accompaniment of a large band, and marshaled by Mr. Bersch, who maintained perfect order, the route took in practically the entire parish, then proceeded to the grounds west of Maplewood.
Preparations Complete
Bent on having everything in readiness, a group of men had met on the grounds at five o'clock in the morning to prepare swings, pony track, decorate booths, arrange lunch and refreshment stands, etc., so that when the parade disbanded at the grounds everything was in readiness, with the first shift of workers furnished by the Mothers' Club at its post in the cashier's stand and ice cream booth.
Hot Dogs and Dulany Reese
Dulany took charge of the lunch stand and assisted by two gentlemen of color, served faithfully throughout the day and evening. The lunch and coffee were delicious. To utilize a trite phrase, their ham, beef and frank sandwiches, served hot, would "melt in your mouth." Folks ate that lunch and pronounced the picnic a success.
Step right up folks and get in line, We've got your choicest morsel. The beef is hot and the franks are fine, Ten cents buys quite a parcel.
Kelly's Kids
Jim Kelly and Father Pohl took charge of the races and we believe we are not far from the truth when we say that. the youngsters had almost as much fun out of it as they did. Father Pohl "also ran" in the fat man's race, won by Mr. French. This race was quite a disappointment to Mrs. Bovard's gang as they had been training Father on their cake. The, result indicated their training may have been ill-advised and too thorough. They made him too eligible.
Jenneman Too Fast
George Jenneman took highest honors among the men by annexing both the 100 and 440 yard dashes. By a burst of speed he took a long lead in the 440, a lead which was never threatened, and which carried with it the parish cup.
McLaughlin Wins Marathon
Mathew McLaughlin won the marathon with a remarkable display of speed and stamina. Starting at the school, he covered the distance to the grounds (about 2 one-fourth miles) in less than fifteen minutes. In this race each of the twelve entries finished and none seemed to have overtaxed his vitality.
C. Kavanaugh Best Boy
C. Kavanaugh was the best athlete among the boys of school age, he having shown first in three events and third in the marathon.
Miss L. Grandinetti took two of the girl events, and Mrs. Geo. Wiber two of the ladies.
Police Look Us Over
Several Maplewood and County plain clothes men spent considerable time in looking for something to which they might object, and were finally compelled to admit failure. They were especially vigilant during the time the Mothers' Club were conducting their euchre, but all they were able to discern was a lot of happy and contented people sitting around playing euchre for "fun."
Busy Bartenders
The men behind the refreshment bar served long and tirelessly. Messrs. Pahl, Banks, both Coads, Sam Gittins, "Ollie" Dolan, Bill Blank and several others efficiently handled an all day rush. They all worked hard and harmoniously and we heard not a single complaint. These gentlemen deserve credit for a mean job well done.
Dancing Well Managed
Capping the climax of a perfect day was the dance which was arranged and managed to perfection. Starting at 4 o'clock, the clever LaParadis Orchestra seemed to realize that the committee desired that their numbers be short and often. Five cents per couple was charged and Father Pohl, Jim Kelly and Geo. Wiber were kept busy shooting them in on one end of the floor and out of the other. No one got in without a ticket. The thoroughly business-like methods of those in charge of this concession were equally fair and satisfactory to all.
EDITORIALS
CO-OPERATION
The recent parish picnic pointed a valuable lesson in "co-operation, and the benefits to be derived there from." Launched on an uncharted and stormy sea, the floundering ship "Committee" was having a rough voyage when the crew mutinied. They objected to the port of passage and were about to take to the boats when a few of the steadier heads persuaded them to reconsider, and soon the craft was fully manned. Almost immediately the storm lifted, the seas smoothed and the port of Utopia appeared in the offing.
The lesson pointed is "make the most of what you can't correct." The good common sense shown by the rank and file of parishioners saved the day. These good people frankly condemned that which they did not approve. We all claim and exercise the same privilege. When, however, they were convinced that the committee had done what it thought best, and that the time for changing was passed; they, like good seamen, manned the sails and righted the ship. "Altogether, let's go."
LET THE NEXT GENERATION PAY FOR IT
Pioneers clear the ground and erect temporary dwellings; the next generation does not look backwards, it continues to improve; the shack is abandoned, a neat home is erected and the offspring inherits the benefits of the laborers who went ahead; and this is the unending order of human progress.
The first buildings erected in a parish are usually temporary. St. James is in its second stage, it has to erect more capacious and neater buildings that will be permanent. This generation has to build a Church; the next, will have its own task in erecting a larger Convent, a bigger rectory and a modern school.
Were the parish now to erect a church that would meet the requirements of the times, a loan of $100,000 should be made, which, with commission and interest, would cost $6,000 a year. This is too much rent to pay for a new church, and would, with an added $2,000 for depreciation, leave us in a persistent struggle for several years.
Better delay for a year or two, add the interest to the principal on hand, put on a spurt to accumulate, and look forward to the day when the Parish will have a church which it can call its own.
WILLIAM BLANK
Mr. Blank, practically a newcomer in the parish, was the instigator of the picnic which has been declared so great a success. "Bill" was also an indefatigable worker for its success, and deserves a great deal of credit. He started his campaign for a picnic at a time when affairs of this kind in St. James were about as popular as a "bull in a china store" and staunchly stood by his idea to the end. He successfully engineered a plan which none of the old timers would have had the temerity even to suggest.
Stay with us "Bill" we need your kind. Let us have some more of your ideas.
WATCH YOUR STEP BOVARD
There is a story going the rounds to the effect that Mrs. Bovard called for a "klotch" on one of the members of the Mothers' Club who has the reputation for serving liquid "wallops" and upon starting for home, she took the bus going in the opposite direction. Better take a guide along next time.
I swear I didn't have a thing
But just one tiny drink.
For when they passed the second one,
I spilled it in the sink.
So you can see it was not that
Which confused my journey homeward,
Pon myword! Says Emma Bovard.
BALLOON ASCENSION
John Kelly, owing to his size (or lack thereof) was purposely selected for the balloon concession at the picnic, because the Committee thought an ascension would be an added attraction. When, however, after blowing up a couple dozen, John started to ascend, he suddenly got cold feet and called Mrs. Quinn and Mrs. Hefele to help him hold down the job.
TRANSPORTATION PAYS A PROFIT
Mrs. George Wiber deserves credit for her work in making the transportation to and from the picnic grounds profitable instead of expensive. Entirely through her efforts, enough ride tickets were sold to more than defray this part of the expense.
TOUGH LUCK
Father O'Connor was busily passing out challenges for a race with a number of men in his age class previous to the picnic, but several of them failed to accept. Owing to improper pedal equipment, when the race finally was run, Father O'Connor couldn't get started. Better luck next year.
VACATIONS
Mr. and Mrs. Ray Dolan and Mr. and Mrs. Arthur Pahl recently returned from a trip to Canada They say the weather was bad but the beer was fine.
FOUR PER CENT PLEDGES
The district south of Manchester Avenue had the fewest wage earners willing to pledge 4% of .their earnings to the Church.
The following are the names of subscribers, visited in the district by John H. Seager, Clyde Stiff, John McDerby and William Henkel.
Each wage earner in the parish
Either lady or a gent
Is asked to make donations
That will equal Four Percent
Many have complied while
Others seem to lurch
Now if this is not soon remedied
We'll never build a Church
In donating Four Percent
By our Pastor we are told
Not a solitary ticket
In the parish will be sold
No Bazaars, no Raffles
Gee won’t that be fine
Come on you slackers
Please fall in line
Unless we all contribute
Things wont be so nice
There'll be carnivals and picnics
Perhaps a little dice
Take the fish hooks from your pockets
And come from off your perch
Buy some Mortar, Brick and Plaster
For that Great and Grand
New Church
HOMES CONSECRATED TO THE SACRED HEART
The following families were consecrated in their homes .to the Sacred Heart by Father O'Connor during the month of June.
NOT A BATHING BEACH
The pilgrims to the Vatican comply with the Catholic tradition of modesty in dress, women are not permitted to appear before the Holy Father in short sleeves and dress décolleté. A few ladies appear in St, James Church from time to time and their dress suggests they must have mistaken ideas about propriety and the essentials of reverence. They seem to be ready to jump from a diving board,
MOTHERS' CLUB MINSTREL
A storm hung around the horizon and deterred the gathering crowd from the air-dome, though the Mothers' Club held out the flag and prayed for a pleasant evening.
Despite the threatening weather, the curtain rose and the minstrel show was on in all the splendor of its two previous performances and numerous new features, which a sparse audience applauded till the thunder claps drove the players from the stage.
Not discouraged, they betook themselves to the hall where Biz Kenny put the finishing touches to the performance sending all away in high good humor and all praising that wonderful Mothers' Club.
NEW PARISHIONERS
At the Parish Meeting it was decided to appoint the committee of twenty who solicited the parish, as a committee on Good Fellowship, their duties to be to welcome new Catholic families in the name of the parish, turn their names in for publication in "LET'S GO," and hand them a copy of the publication when calling on them.
THE ALUMNI BANQUET
The annual banquet of the Alumni Association of St. James Parochial School was held Sunday evening, June 21st at the City Club. One hundred and forty-five members including the new graduates were present.
After partaking of an appetizing menu, the Class of 1925, twenty-eight in number, were introduced and welcomed into the association. Father O'Connor eulogized the graduates and left no doubt they were his favorites. He said he would make this class his body guard and promised to confer this distinction on no other class.
The older grads are jealous and say Father O'Oonnor gave this honor to the Class of 1925 because it is Jubilee Year.
Father Pohl on being requested to make a few remarks, said what pleased him most was the word "few" and he strictly adhered to it.
Frank Strathman, as spokesman for the Class of 1925, assured the association of their appreciation of the banquet tendered them and of their determination to live up to the traditions of the Society and the high ideals learned in St. James School.
The Annual Communion and breakfast recently introduced, Ray Dolan said was a splendid addition to the activities of the society, and should be availed of as an occasion for remembering Sisters Catherine, Louis and Father Casey, "those saintly and much beloved ones who made the organization possible." He impressed upon the newly elected officers, the propriety of making the annual Communion and the banquet, the two big events of the association.
The only set speech for the evening was delivered by James Dolan. His eloquence and literary skill were impressive. He wove words into rich tapestries and variegated imagery. His thoughts flowed like a crystal brook through a flowery meadow, alliterations, metaphors, hyperboles nestled in the crevices of deep emotionalism. He flew over the sheep ranches of Nevada, the poppy fields of France, interviewed the pompous citizens of heaven, the most exalted ecclesiastics of the earth and pointed many morals to the class. With tender sentimentalism, he touched on the graduates farewell to childhood, the Parochial School and the faithful Sisters who taught them; and in a climax to their possibilities in life, he closed his remarks with the slogan "Let's Go."
Dan Murphy the outgoing president, introduced the new officers and Raymond Usher was vigorously applauded when he took the chair to preside. He at once got down to business and had a motion carried to have the society financed by dues of a dollar a year from each member, which, the motion declared, would be obligatory though non-compulsory.
After the banquet, the Alumni met in the lobby many of their friends who came to dance, and all repaired to the Club Ball Room where the Orchestra was already playing a lively waltz.
A QUARTER OF AN HOUR WELL SPENT
The Promoters of the Apostleship of Prayer are making an effort to get volunteers to keep a watch before the Blessed Sacrament each Friday from 7 a. m. to 8 p. m. The devotion gives an opportunity for spiritual thought and practical belief in Christ's presence. Each adorer spends a quarter of an hour in church and forms a link in the chain of worshippers. A schedule in the back of the church shows the hours and days that are already filled. Those who desire to have their names listed, should communicate with Miss Genevieve Mahon, 1534 Tamm Ave.
CHINAMEN?
Among the many friends who attended the picnic, we noticed Messrs. Wm. Graves and George Ehrhardt. These are the two young men who recently opened the Forest Park Laundry at 6442 Wise Avenue. We understand they do fine work and are enjoying an ever increasing volume of business. We wish them the best of luck.
BAPTISMS -- JUNE
Bridget Viola Edna Hofstetter, 1319 Ripple Street.
Kathleen Mary 'Regan, 6815 Waldemar Ave.
Helen Frances Graves, 6020a Loretta St.
YOUNG MOTHER
Do not permit your child to form objectionable and detrimental habits; these will ever impede his way to success and happiness. It is almost impossible for an adult to extricate himself from a deep rooted habit that has grown up with him from childhood. Habit becomes second nature and bad habits, like weeds, are quick to sprout, hard to eradicate and usually more fertile than good ones.
Habits are formed from repeated acts. A single act rarely gives a facility or inclination for similar actions, but repeated, it cuts for itself a groove in which it can increase its speed and force. A habit is a pathway to an action, good or bad. It makes the way easier and suggests the action. One who has formed a habit does not deliberate on the act; like the rabbit, he repeats the run of yesterday and follows the same path.
You do not permit your child to pick his nose because the action is objectionable and repulsive to others, though perhaps pleasing to the child. There are quite a number of things that people do that make their manners vulgar and their presence less desirable; their conduct is irritating and their attractiveness is thereby decreased. One snuffles, another bangs doors, a third keeps the middle of the road, chews tobacco and spits on your doorstep, etc. All of these imply a lack of consideration for others and arouse antipathies. The mother lives in the child's habits, and the child is father of the man. Refinement is not an inheritance, it is the polish produced on raw character by the gentle rubbings of a considerate woman.
Bad habits do not always afflict our neighbor, some are so personal they cause the greatest inconvenience to ourselves. I am ever looking for my pipe. My glasses, the book I had been reading, my hat, my pen, my transfer or railroad ticket. I waste lots of time doing nothing, and yet absorbed in a nerve racking search for something. I was an impulsive child. The newest attraction called me so suddenly, I dropped the hammer I had been using, the book I had been reading, the cup from which I had been drinking, anywhere next to hand, and went my way in happy forgetfulness of what was left behind and where it was. Mother may have corrected me but not sufficiently. I now am hopelessly tied to these careless habits which I have endeavored to correct but find myself too careless to be persistent.
Carelessness about dress, punctuality, personal cleanliness are common offenses. The high class business man is a model of neatness and order. The sloppy, untidy woman and her home are as unsightly as a rag-picker's wagon.
A bad habit is a vice when one's attitude is at variance with the laws of God. These habits imply viciousness, lying, stealing, impurity and blasphemy, lead to depravity and unfit a human being for any great nobility of character.
Young mother, your home is a school room wherein a child's character is formed or deformed. You are the teacher; are you qualified to discharge your duty, or do you permit your child to grow up as Topsy grew?
SUCKERS
Corinne Gittins had a hard time finding a suitable place for her Fish Pond. She finally decided upon the refreshment booth as the "wettest" location on the grounds. It was so "wet" in fact, that some of the men may have contracted pneumonia if they had not taken proper precaution.
PARISH MEETING
On Thursday, June 25th, the regular monthly meeting of St. James Parishioners was called to order by Martin Coad in the absence of Mr. Crotty and Frank Walsh. Aside from a few who are on vacation, the meeting was well attended.
PICNIC COMMITTEE REPORTS
The committee reported a profit of $65 on the picnic and this amount was turned over to the School Association, while important suggestions as to the management of future picnics were turned over to Rev. P. J. O'Connor for future reference.
"The picnic," Mr. Pierce said, "was not to be a money-making affair but a grand get together for everyone in the parish, to advertise St. James inside and outside the parish, to promote pride and interest in parochial affairs and to inspire the young people with possibilities of finding things to do in the parish; in this, the committee feel they have been very successful." He said a group of about 20 people who worked from 5 A.M. to 11 P,M. deserved the thanks of the parish and at the same time the parish as a whole ought to be thanked for turning out as they did. He made special mention of the untiring efforts of Jim Kelly who took the place of two of the original committee who could not serve.
This committee was discharged with a rising vote of thanks for their earnest and efficient services.
SCHOOL ASSOCIATION TO DEVELOP ATHLETICS
The picnic has inspired the children with a desire for athletics and the school association feels there are great possibilities along this line. There is talk of a handball court, basket ball, etc.
FOUR PER CENT
The remainder of the parish meeting was devoted to the financial report on the 4% system.
Mr. Gittins said, "Letters have been mailed to those who subscribed 4%, those who subscribed nothing and to those who signed pledge cards but designated no amount."
FATHER O'CONNOR
Mr. Coad requested Father O'Connor to give the committee something further to work on and requested that some members of the parish look over the books in order to instruct the meeting as to the parish financial standing. Father O'Connor said. since the 25c a week collectors have stopped calling on some of the parishioners, they make no effort to give anything, do we want to let this go on indefinitely? The individual who takes advantage of the church and school is the first to criticize and we should call them on it. The thing should be discontinued, a priest should not be compelled to talk money from the altar. The Sisters and Priests work only for the continuance and development of the church to improve the growth of the parish, etc., and this required revenue.
The Church is authority. It is based on justice, and it is justice that those who have the benefits of its school and church should help to keep them up.
A large number of good people are not contributing to the church not because they are not willing, but because their good intentions never materialize: they treat every question as it comes along with a generous viewpoint; they buy from everyone who comes to their door selling, with the result at the end of the month they have nothing left for the church.
Motion made and carried that financial committee and Father O’Connor go over the parish books and at next meeting report on their findings and make recommendations.
Meeting then adjourned.
CHILD LOGICIANS
The school children, in their essays on "Why Daddy Should Pay His 4% Quota" brought out some interesting and novel gems of logic. A number of their reasons why “Dad” should “kick-in” are entirely new and so worthy and indicative of careful thought that we have selected a few for publication, and list them as follows:
We commend the youngsters and thank them for phrases some of which may suggest slogans. The child’s mind, usually free from prejudice, when properly encouraged, often shows almost unbelievable flights of wisdom.”
SPORTS
The athletic events held in conjunction with the picnic were interesting and thoroughly representative. Arranged by Mr. James Kelly, they brought into play virtually every form of physical skill.
The marathon, chief event of the day, was something new in the parish. When the idea was first suggested, we admit entertaining some misgivings due to the fear of the effort upon the boys. As all of the twenty entrees finished and none of them show any ill effects we gladly place our stamp of approval on the race and nominate it for first consideration for future meets.
Names of the first three in this and winners of other events are given below in the order of their position.
Matthew McLaughlin ---------- first
Waldo C. Bisso ---------- second
Cornelius Kavanaugh ---------- third
Standing Broad Jump – boys under 8 years
R. Corbett
Standing Broad Jump – boys under 12 years
J. Phelan
100 Yard Dash – boys under 12 years
J. Phelan
100 Yard Dash – boys under 15 years
C. Kavanaugh
Sack Race – boys over 12 years
Byron Fannen
Needle and Threat Race – girls over 12 years
Christina Hobbs
Sack Race – girls over 12 years
Philomena Shaffrey
Fifty Yard Dash – girls 9 to 12 years
L. Grandinetti
Sack Race – girls 9 to 12 years
L. Grandinetti
Fifty Yard Dash – school girls over 12 years
Philomena Shaffrey
Fifty Yard Dash – school girls over 12 years
H. Moellenbeck
Relay Race – school girls 16 and under
M. Regan and L. Stumpf
50 Yard Dash – Single girls over 18
Dolores Arlt
440 Dash – open to all men
George Jennemann
100 Yard Dash – married men
George Jennemann
Fat Man’s Race –
C. French
Married Ladies Race –
Mrs. George Wiber
Fat Ladies Race –
Mrs. George Wiber
"Into this Universe and why not knowing,In the Catholic School the child learns "God made the World." This truth becomes the foundation of the rest of his education. It seems as reasonable to a child to believe God made the world as that man built the school. He is taught to seek the will of God and do it; to revere the name of God and praise Him and to regard his fellow man as his brother. When the child has learned that God-man so loved the world that He sent His Son to teach us, the child's heart expands and a generous impulse loosens the cords from the structures of selfishness. The lesson proceeds from day to day and consciousness opens its flowery arches and a God-man groans in agony for the sins of men in the road where the purple blossoms of love had fallen and will forever mark the way of Peace and Good will.
Nor whence, like water willy nilly flowing
And out of it, as wind along the waste,
I know not whither, willy nilly blowing."
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Mr. and Mrs. Henkel spent a week at Stanton, Mo.
Maria Shaffrey, Dr. Courtney Murphy and his wife toured to Lake Emerald, Newaygo, Michigan, where they had a delightful time. They had a great deal of trouble on the way -- blowouts, punctures and dead ignition alternator. Maria says no more touring trips for her.
PARISH BOUNDARIES
The system of the Catholic Church is to divide a city into parishes, placing there priests who are responsible for the spiritual interests of all the parishioners in that territory. He is obliged to provide ample church and school buildings; he must see that his people have convenient hours for mass, devotions, confessions, etc., he must look after the spiritual training of the youth of his parish and see that all are prepared for First Communion and Confirmation; he must care for the sick of his parish, etc., etc.
THE PEOPLE at the same time have THEIR OBLIGATIONS towards their OWN PARISH. It is their duty to attend and support not any church they may fancy, but THEIR OWN PARISH CHURCH. They must unite with their fellow parishioners in building up their own parish; they should be members of their own PARISH SODALITIES AND SOCIETIES. They should not be strangers there; if they are, it is because they make themselves such. They should strive to attain PARISH PRIDE and PARISH LOYALTY, encouraging their priests and their fellow parishioners in their undertakings.
(Year Book of Sacred Heart Parish)
YOUNG MOTHER
When you go to the store, you want the best vegetables, the most luscious fruit, the finest cuts of meat, you have in mind the health and happiness of those who sit at your table, but you too often forget that air, sunshine and recreation are as necessary to the physical development of a child as is food.
In the Public Schools of New York City, the Board of Education has provided a physical culture class as a part of the program of school exercises. The children are taught to take proper recreation. On a cool morning one might see crowds of ten in the streets near the school under the direction of a teacher. They are taught how to fill the lungs with fresh air, how to carry the body and give the muscles full play. The children take a delight in these exercises and vie with one another in athletic ability. They enter the school room in a bright cheerful spirit, their cheeks have the glow of health; the dullness and tediousness of the school room is forgotten and the teacher faces a class of vivacious little pupils who are well disposed for the work of the day.
Recreation, to have real value, must have the element of sport. The child must play the game and forget thinking about himself. It is not recreation for a child to take a quiet walk with a parent or nurse. The child must cut loose from the mother's apron strings and meet companions of his own age in friendly rivalry. The clothing must be free and easy, and games should be provided which give a chance to the child to use every muscle in the body.
To have the incentive to use the muscles to the fullest extent the school yard ought to be provided with recreational facilities and the home with toys that will tempt the child to use his muscles. '
Nature, if permitted, would tempt children to all the exercise they need; climbing, tumbling, rolling, throwing, jumping, baseball, football, wrestling, are splendid old-fashioned methods of physical development. In the sickly child, nature is often dormant, and the child who most needs exercise is least inclined to take it. He becomes self conscious of his inability to meet his fellows in a game and he avoids them, to be later humiliated and dubbed a "sissy." Such a child seeks pity, and it is unfortunate if his parents are so lacking in judgment as to sympathize with him and quarrel with the parents of all the healthy robust children in the neighborhood who offer these insults.
Such a child is simply backward in physical development, his chest is hollow, his voice is girlish, his shoulders are goose-backed; he lacks vitality and virility; he is under a terrific handicap. He needs a physical instructor more than a mental tutor. Give him a chance and see that he plays the games.
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Mrs. Harry 'Malone and her daughter Irene made a retreat at the Sacred Heart Convent,, St. Charles.
A STORY FOR BOYS
How To Become a Man
Old Greece was a lovely land; mountain and valley sat side by side and the sea reflected from the hills, the white washed cabins, the sheep fold and the vineyard.
Over these mountains and valleys walked a race of warriors and beautiful men. Their skin was smooth and well rubbed with olive oil, their bodies muscular and flexible, their movements easy and graceful, their step sprightly, their eyes bright, their countenances beaming with the glow of health and the courage of confidence. What made them so beautiful? They were athletes trained in the gymnasium; soldiers who from childhood were taught to be men.
"Did you cry when leaving home?" said the old Greek teasingly to a boy who came to the training school.
"No," said the boy, "why should I cry? I have come to be a soldier. Spartans do not cry,'
The Spartans were the bravest of the Greeks and the best athletes.
The boys left home at an early age and entered a military academy Where their characters were formed and their muscles were developed. These boys were not permitted to stay up late at night, they slept in the open air and in hard beds, they were awakened at day-break and ran to the river for a cold plunge, and then ran back to camp ground. The different Irens called their boys together, twenty or thirty companies stood in soldiers orders, the boys were taught to box, to wrestle, to throw the discus and to jump, the men walked among them looking on. They gave praise when a boy did well, they stopped the game when it was wrong.
After the boys played for some time, the trumpet blew and another lesson began. “What?” said th