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 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'S GO."
Dear Parishioner;
A review of the financial affairs of the parish covering a period of seven years seems at this time to be of special interest.
On January 1st, 1919, the parish indebtedness amounted to $4,000. A few days later the old church caught on fire and conditions were anything but encouraging; the parishioners assembled around the ruins and gathered up a few candlesticks and vestments, they took .them to the assembly room in the school and with the assistance of the nuns, an altar was erected.
The bell rang the next Sunday and masses were offered as usual. Most of the parishioners showed grit and determination. The ladies made light of having to kneel on the muddy floor over which the previous congregation had walked. With few exceptions, the congregation showed a fine spirit of self sacrifice and parish fidelity. They made it evident to the priests that they were going to see the thing through. Some sent flowers for the altar. Saturday after Saturday ladies came and scrubbed the floors of the temporary church; many of the parishioners sent to the Rectory generous checks; even the children vied with one another in giving nickels and dimes. It was really a great year for St. James; the parishioners had awakened from a torpor and the parish had received a baptism of fire.
A parish meeting was called. The hall had a capacity crowd, numerous suggestions were made, some said, "build a basement," others thought the old church could be improved and enlarged. It was difficult to come to a decision; the meeting disbanded without a definite program.
On the next Sunday I proposed to the parishioners the idea of enlarging the school and of using the addition for a temporary church. They at once agreed with me, and in a few weeks the present building was under construction. It cost $10,500. That year it was paid for and the parish debt was- reduced $500.
On January 1st, 1920, the parish was still in debt $3,500. Mr. John P. Dolan died that year, on his death bed he had the interest of the church at heart and bequeathed to the parish $500. By the end of the year the church was out of debt and for the first time in the history of the parish there was a balance on hand of $3,000.
The next year pew rent was discontinued, the school was practically made free, some of the old timers shook their heads and said expenses could not be made, I told them I knew the parishioners might be depended upon to do the right thing and I am glad to announce now I was not mistaken in my confidence; that year $6,000 was set aside. Next year I asked them to set aside $10,000. They did it -- at the end of 1922, the balance in the treasury amounted to $19,000. But the pace was too slow, it was evident it would take very many years before a sufficient sum could be accumulated to erect a new church; a meeting of parishioners was again called, the difficulty was explained to them, they asked me for a plan to increase the revenue, I suggested that each parishioner give 4% of his income to the church. The enthusiasts were few but the fidelity of the majority was evident. Many feared this was not a progressive plan, I assured them I had given the matter sufficient thought to be sure of my decision. The old guard had no more hesitation, they said they were with me, and the meeting decided to accept the 4%.
Since that time the revenue of the parish has consistently increased though many were slow to fall in line. In that period the parish has increased the building fund $41,000, and there is today in the treasury $60,000.
By persistent efforts the parish has progressed, Without the co-operation received from the staunch supporters of the parish, each movement would have died aborning. I cannot sufficiently express my gratitude to those faithful ones. The parish account books record their generosity and I am confident God will reward them in His own way for their sacrifices.
I appeal to them again on this the eve year of building the New Church, to get behind another movement I have in mind for making the biggest drive that yet has been conceived for increasing parish funds. I deem it necessary because I know after these years of effort and hope the vast majority of you want a church erected that will be in keeping with your appreciation of what is architecturally correct and large enough to seat the increased congregation which might be expected in St. James in another decade. Should any error be made in this matter, it will entail very serious consequences for the parish because the vast majority of the parishioners expect to see a beautiful large church erected. Should the edifice not come up to their expectations, they will be disappointed and disheartened and will say, "Is this all we have after all our efforts?" The morale of the parish would be broken and the indebtedness regarded as an overwhelming burden.
I deem it our duty to build a beautiful church, regardless of the cost, and it will be impossible to do so unless we have set aside a sufficiently large fund before the plans are drawn; hence I feel compelled by the exigencies of the case, to urge you to make unusual effort to increase your donations to the church this year.
Thanking you most sincerely for all you have done in the past and wishing you great success in your own undertakings, praying God to bless your homes and families with much gratitude, I remain,
Yours truly,
PATRICK J. O'CONNOR.
FATHER O'CONNOR'S COMMENTS ON THE ANNUAL REPORT
The first Sunday of the year, the late mass was crowded, the morning was dark, a thaw had set in. and everybody seemed to have taken a long sleep.
Father O'Connor commented on the annual statement and said he was very delighted with the report of the year 1925. The revenue was never greater. The income for the year amounted to $26,000 and of that amount over $15,000 was added to the surplus fund leaving in the parish treasury.-a sum total of $60,000.
He expressed special appreciation of the sacrifices that many of the parishioners made in paying their 4% regularly. He knew, he said there were some who had large families, small salaries and were burdened by the obligation of meeting notes on their own home, but notwithstanding these they kept up their contributions.
He also referred to the contributions received from a large number of the young people of the parish. "These," he added "are the manifestations of sterling Catholic character. Young people have many calls from the world of pleasure and show. When a young man or woman contributes regularly to the church we know that he has a proper appreciation of its spiritual worth, and that he is making an effort to live up to the high ideals of conduct which it dictates."
"The greater part of the revenue was derived from contributions of 4%, the total receipts from this fund amounted to $17,500. Added to this, the Sunday basket collection of $2,300, the interest of $3,000 on investments, the Christmas collection which amounted to over $800, it was evident that the amount derived from those who are not contributors to 4%, was an insignificant sum. In fact it might be said this latter class did not contribute as much in hundreds as the others did in thousands. They do not believe in the 4%, they believe in the old system. But with the old system it would be difficult to meet the current expenses of the parish, and it would take a thousand years to build a church." “It is not quite fair to say that those who contributed the 4% are also to be given credit for the basket collection, but it is a remarkable fact that the basket collection has not increased ten dollars in the past seven years. It was as high in Father Casey's time as it is now. It seems to us people get accustomed to put in a nickel or dime when the basket is passed regardless of whether or not they are contributors to the 4%. Now and then some individual in a moment of spiritual zeal, and perhaps of repentance for his past neglect, throws in a five or ten dollar bill and feels big about it; we appreciate the moments of generosity that have influenced his thoughts, and opened his purse, but they come far too rarely in the lives of many of you. People who are regular contributors to the church do more than that in a few weeks and think little or nothing about it. We would much prefer to see each contributor placing his donation in an envelope so that he will be duly credited with it in the parish records. Contributing to the church is a matter of duty and a good Catholic man, no matter how small his contribution might be, should be desirous of letting his parish priest know that lie is making an effort to assist him in carrying the parish burden."
“We intend mailing to each parishioner this week a statement of the amount of his contributions to the church during the past year. There are a few of the new parishioners whose names are not yet in the parish account books, perhaps, they expect us to send them collectors but we are not in the habit of doing so. We realize they are not yet initiated in the ways of the parish and would ask them to begin as soon as possible to send in their contributions."
"Investing the parish funds has become a matter of much concern to me. An error of judgment in this affair would be calamitous. I have made an effort to invest in securities that bear 6% interest. Mr. Gittens has given me, with others, a great deal of valuable assistance, so far the investments have been safe and profitable, and the Archbishop has so much approved of the purchases, he has long since left me to travel alone. However, I submit to him each year a record of our investments and I am confident his keen eye would quickly detect a bad bargain had I made one.
"I am going to make an announcement to you today which is of the greatest moment in the history of the parish. This month next year, with God's help if I am living, the contract for the new church will be let. Many of you, since you were children have looked forward to this event. I'm afraid that because of your long deferred hopes and many efforts that you will expect a building that will be so complete and beautiful as would be impossible to erect with the amount of funds that will be on hand. When we go into the purchase we will be like a man in a store with a child at his side who goes to purchase a hat. He will be asked whether it is for the child or himself he wants to make the purchase, the bigger the hat and the more high grade the material, the greater the price. So if you want me to purchase for you the church that will come up to your expectations you must send me to the architect and the contractor with sufficient funds to buy what you desire.
"I intend submitting to you from time to time at the parish meetings sketches of churches drawn by reputable architects with an estimate of the probable cost. We have traveled together these many years and have undertaken nothing before we had reached a mutual agreement. I hope to do so in this affair. Don't blame me if the church that is erected is not satisfactory. I will give you what you want, though I am sure I will do all in my power to prevent your making a mistake.
"You see, therefore, how necessary it is for you to attend the parish meetings. These will be the proper occasions for discussing the problems that we have before us. Every parishioner will be given an opportunity of expressing his viewpoint, or of agreeing or disagreeing with those that might be expressed so that the parish as a whole will have to carry the responsibility for the debt that shall be contracted and the church that shall be erected.
"I feel that we owe it to this community to erect a beautiful church. There is nothing that so impresses a child with the majesty of God as magnificence and art in a temple. A child's ideas of things are taken from his first impressions and the importance of religion will be deeply engraved in his memory if he sees his parents making a big sacrifice towards the erection of a magnificent church.
"You might hesitate when asked to give a large contribution towards the church building but if your child were in the hands of a police officer or you saw him looking at you through prison bars, what sum would pay for your tears? Would you not spend all that you had to procure his release? You would even sell the home over your head to secure his liberty, but you could never, had he committed a crime, buy back his reputation or remove from your memory the conscientiousness of the tragedy that had fallen on your home.
"I appeal to you to be properly impressed with the importance of the spiritual welfare of your children. You can't build a spiritual character of strength or stability without paying the price. Religion alone will save the youth in modern times in the many dangers and temptations which everywhere surround them, and when a child is taught from his infancy to put his penny in the basket and to look up to the church with reverence he will gradually develop in his life those principles of conduct which will make him a pride and an honor to his parents.
"At the beginning of last year I asked you to set aside $15,000 towards the new church fund. I know you and I knew what to expect of each one of you, I felt you wouldn't fail me and you came up to my expectations. When I ask you to do something that is difficult you may hesitate and shift from one foot to another, but you never refuse me. I am not going to tell you how much I expect you to contribute this year, the sum I have in mind would probably startle you, I intend putting on a big drive, the least that I ask of each one of you is 4% of your income, I will expect some of you to do more. Regardless of what anyone did in the past, I would ask every wage earner who is listening to me to begin at once to send in his contribution and to form a unit in this parish organization that has determined to build a suitable church. Let us all work together for the honor of God and towards the extending of the Kingdom of Christ in Heaven which the church foreshadows on earth, mindful that there is no love where there is no sacrifice and that Christ in emphasizing his love for us said, "No one had greater love than to lay down his life for his friend." Let us contribute toward the new church in the spirit of zeal and devotion and our contributions will have a religious value. They will be a proof to our Lord of how earnestly we love Him and He will be with us in all oar undertakings and difficulties, and with so powerful a protector we cannot fail."
ST. JAMES PAROCHIAL SCHOOL ALUMNI ASSOCIATION
A special meeting of this organization held in the school hall on the evening of December 17th. The meeting was called for the purpose of organizing a dramatic club within the society.
Raymond Usher presided and about forty members were present. Mr. Usher stated that it would be a decided advantage to have a dramatic club which would help to continue the development that was begun in the school and which made many members pre-eminently fitted to take part in a play. He said in this way a fund could be created wherewith suitable memorial windows could be erected in the new church in memory of Father Casey, Sisters Catherine and Louis. A motion was made to begin at once to elect officers who would encourage this organization and the following were appointed:
Dan Murphy, President;
Helen Bawn, Vice-President;
John Mahon, Secretary;
Genevieve Mahon and Mary Wilson, Assistant Secretaries;
Teresa Manion, Treasurer;
Euph. Jones, Assistant Treasurer.
It was decided that the officers should meet on Thursday, January 7th, at Mr. Murphy's home and select a play and name the formers.
BAPTISMS FOR NOVEMBER AND DECEMBER
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Mrs. Daly, better known as Helen Moore, 1356 Tamm Ave., gave birth to a baby boy Christmas eve, at St. John's Hospital.
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John May, 2009 Martha Place, was in an explosion, January 4th, and is St. Mary's Hospital.
EUCHRE AND LOTTO
The Boosters' Club are requested to note that St. Ann's Sodality will give a Euchre and Lotto in the School Hall, Thursday evening, January 21st, the price of admission 35c, You are expected to be present with all your friends and relatives and prove to the ladies of the Sodality that this Boosters' Club is not a big hoax.
MAHONS’ FILLNG STATION
There appears to be a keen competition between Bellamy's Filling Station, The Mahon brothers' Filling Station and Eddie Ryan. Mr. Ryan proposes erecting a stand for himself that will be so high that he can spit on the other two. Recently, Mr. Ryan suffered an awful humiliation. Whilst passing The Mahon Brothers' Filling Station, his machine went dead. John Mahon obligingly came out to render whatever assistance he could. He saw at a glance that Mr. Ryan was out of gasoline. "I knew," he said, "Mr. Ryan that when you needed a first class article, you would come with an empty tank, so drive in, I will give you the first five gallons for nothing."
THE CHRISTMAS PARTY
With part of the proceeds of their Euchre, the Mothers' Club gave a Christmas party for the children at the school on Wednesday, Dec. 23rd. Besides the 300 belonging to the school, 132 extra children were entertained and each was given by Santa Claus, candy and fruit.The ladies presented the Sisters with a Christmas turkey and a large basket of fruit. They also made gifts to Father O'Connor and Father Pohl.
This efficient body, inspired by the dynamic Mrs. Bovard is deserving of an immense amount of credit for their efforts in behalf of the school and church.
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The church, the aisles, the vestibule and the hallway leading to St. James Church was crowded at the Christmas Midnight Mass. It would appear most of those present went to communion.
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Father O'Connor presented a pocket knife at Christmas to the boy in each room who knew best the Catechism. On the way home from school two of the boys got into a scrap about one the knives and one of them gashed the other's foot. No more pocket knife presents!
Father Pohl is becoming quite a hunter. He has advanced so far that he can now hit what he aims at. Unfortunately, he sometimes aims at "protected" game. Recently, while on a hunt with Messrs. Plengemier and Bersch, he saw what he thought was a cottontail bunny sitting on the crown of a hill, took careful aim, pulled the trigger and blasted an ear off a mule.
WAH! WAH!
On Tuesday morning, January 5th, at St. John's Hospital, Mrs. Theresa Moran Larson, 6225a Victoria Ave., gave birth to a ten pound baby boy.
Mrs. Larson is a sister to Mrs. William Hefele, and recently returned to St. Louis after living for several years in New York City, where Mr. Larson held an important office with the Fox River Butter Co. Mrs. Larson persuaded her husband to give up his position so that they could return to St. Louis; as in her own words, she would "rather live in St. James Parish than on the Joisey side."
The Larsons have two other children, Dorothy and Raphael.
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LETS GO goes to press on the Tuesday after the last Thursday of the month, and is distributed on the following Sunday.
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Sister Sacristan requests the ladies of the parish to be mindful that candles for the Altar and home will be blessed on February 2nd and that she expects them to send in their donations not later than the Sunday previous.
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Ryan's filling station presented a thermometer to its customers at Christmas. It tends to produce in the home a spirit of comfort and good cheer. When the fire goes down and the north winds blow, it registers a temperature of 80, and when the weather moderates and the furnace flames with latent energy suggestive of the lower regions, the thermometer plainly says, "keep cool, see I'm only 65." It has some of the peculiar energy of Ryan. When he is all smiles and bubbling over in the effervescence of wit and good will one can be sure he is suffering from a corn on the toe; a blister on the heel, a boil in the back of the neck and not a dime in his pocket.
THE MIRACLE
Undoubtedly, Father Stritch, by his criticism, has done a good deal to eliminate undesirable features from the Miracle play. We understand the producing company acceding to his wishes, made a laudable effort to remove many of the objectionable features of the play, but there is still in the performance an element of ridiculousness which is repulsive to Catholic taste and untrue to Catholic practice.
A few boys from St. James' parish witnessed a recent performance. They were impressed by the grandeur of the temporary cathedral, the solemn tones of the organ, the consonance of the bells, the elaborate staging of the play in its rich tapestries and variegated lights, the rigid statuesque pose of the Chicago lady who represented the statue of the Virgin.
All these features, however, did not counterbalance the abhorrence they experienced at seeing nuns so ridiculously caricatured. "We never," they said, "saw a nun who would act so silly and display such lack of self-control. These ladies in the nuns' garb rushed here and there around the cloister like inmates of a madhouse, rather than the disciplined women whom we are accustomed to admire in our convents. At times they became hysterical and silly, and at no time were they reverent and impressive." If convent life was no better than what it is depicted to be as staged in the Miracle, the boys would be in favor of abolishing convents and sending the so-called religious into the world.
The religious processions also were conducted contrary to Catholic practice and the court fool was given a place among the dignitaries in the sanctuary where his capers were supposed to be mirth-provoking, but to a Catholic, nauseating.
We would rather depend upon a boy's unsophisticated impressions of the worth of the Miracle play than any afterthought which Father Stritch might have given to his former remarks.
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Mrs. Buddy, mother of Mrs. Ward, 1041 Louisville Ave., who was buried from St. James Church, December 23rd, was a fine type of old-fashioned mother. She loved her home, her family and her church and faced death in the fortitude of Christian hope. May she rest in peace.
PARISH MEETING
The Parish Meeting of November was deferred from the last Thursday of the month, owing to Thanksgiving, and as the meeting for December would fall on the eve of New Year, a special meeting of the Parish Organization was called on December 11th. The attendance was small but enthusiastic..
The chief business transacted during the evening was an election of officers: Messrs. Riegel, Martin Coad and Pierce as soon as their names were placed in nomination vigorously opposed their election. It looked as if they were fearful to run in a race with Mr. Crotty the outgoing president. After a vote was taken Mr. Crotty's popularity became more evident. At the first roll call he received a majority of votes and was continued in office for another year.
Mr. Martin Coad received second highest number of votes and was elected Vice-President.
Mrs. G. J. Boerckel formerly Miss Mary O'Hare, was unanimously elected Secretary.
The committee of forty were called on to report on the visits which they were instructed to make on parishioners who had not been supporting the church and school. Father O'Connor spoke for this committee and said that as some of the members had shown a reluctance to call on these parishioners, he transferred their work to the financial committee. These, he said, visited many of the parishioners with very good results. Ollie Dolan procured promises from several that they would begin to contribute, and Mr. Kletzker and Mr. Stiff received a donation of $25 from one family. It was decided to discontinue the calls until the New Year.
A discussion took place as to whether the Parish Meetings should not be held on the first Monday of the month and it was finally decided to continue as in the past on the last. Thursday.
Father O'Connor paid an eloquent tribute to Mr. Pierce, Mr. and Mrs. Boman, Mrs. Gittens and Mr. Jim Coad for the efficient service they had rendered in publishing the little pamphlet "LET'S GO." He said it took a great deal of time and trouble as the copy had to be made up in the few days following the parish meeting, usually the work had to be rushed to get the copy to press not later than the Tuesday following. He was glad to say that the paper was a financial success and the majority of the parishioners appreciated the breezy, newsy manner in which it was written. No doubt it has justified its existence and accomplished its purpose which was to keep the parishioners informed on parish activities.
Mr. Ed. Pierce suggested the advisability of establishing a parish boosting club. Father Pohl enlarged on the advantages that might be derived from such an organization, and on a motion being made by Mr. Pierce, Father O'Connor was requested to form the nucleus of such an organization. All the men who were present signified their willingness to be members of this organization, and their motto is BOOST EVERYTHING THAT IS STARTED IN ST. JAMES, and be present at every affair given in the name of the Parish.
Mr. Crotty, after thanking the meeting for his election, said that there was every indication that the year 1926 would be one of the biggest years of financial success and he asked all who were present to co-operate with him in making the meetings larger and more interesting.
As there was no further business to transact, the meeting adjourned.
PICTURE SHOWS
St. Ann's Sodality recently gave two picture shows which were very entertaining as well as financially successful. The proceeds from these shows are being put into a fund to be used for purchasing something for the new church. This fund is well past the $100 mark and the Sodality officers promise to stimulate its further growth with a number of entertainments during the coming year.
Indebted to Mrs. Bringlia
Many have been wondering how the Sodality was able to obtain such wonderful pictures for its shows until it was recently explained that they were procured without cost through the friendship of the Bringlia family, who are closely related to the Skouras Brothers, theatrical magnates. One of the Skouras brothers is married to Mrs. Bringlia's daughter. At their first performance "The Sea Hawk" which was very recently a first run picture, was presented.
The officers of the Sodality extend their thanks to Mrs. Bringlia for her kind assistance and urge parishioners to patronize the Skouras Theatres.
Euchre Prizes Wanted
The Sodality is preparing to give a Euchre in the very near future and the officers are asking the parishioners to assist by the donation of articles suitable for prizes.
EUCHRE AND LOTTO
The Prize Euchre and Lotto given by the Mothers' Club in the School Hall, on Wednesday evening, Dec. 8th, was attended by a large and enthusiastic crowd. Both the Euchre and Lotto tables were well filled and all seemed to be well satisfied with the evening's entertainment.
Chigger! The Cops!
No prizes were given, but an arrangement by which the winners were granted the privilege of purchasing certain items at very nominal prices, seemed to be the point of distinction, between a gambling orgy and a legitimate enterprise: Oh! Well! anything to please, Chief.
New Tables
The Euchre was the christening event for the new tables purchased by the Mothers' Club. The tables are small, but efficient, and fold up to a very compact size so that they can be packed away with little trouble. They are patterned after a sample borrowed from St. Bridget's Parish. The material was purchased from Huttig Sash and Door Co., and the tables were made by a committee of the men from the School Patrons' Association.
Of this committee, Jim Kelly procured the sample and bossed the job; Louis Riegel purchased the material and assisted Kelly; Tom Duggan set a dizzy pace in the construction of the tables, and was ably supported by Will Driscoll, Ben Plengemeier, Geo. Wiber, Bernard Brady, John Lawrence. Ed. Pierce and his son James.
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Very often people in the parish are anxious to be nearer the church and school and would be glad to know of property so situated. Mr. W.T. Boman has a modern five room brick bungalow one block west of the church and a modern 5-room frame, 2 blocks south, and would be very glad to talk it over with you.
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The Dolan Real Estate office has now painted on its window
DANIEL SHEEHAN, Attorney-at-law. Good for Dan!
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The Mother General Regenald O S D of Sparkill, New York is on a visit to the Dominican sisters of the west. She was expected at St. James on Jan. 8th.
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Patrick J. Connors, 1321 Hampton Ave., has taken over the barber shop at 6401 Manchester Ave., in the John P. Dolan Building.
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Jimmy Kelly, 6519 West Park Ave., fell off a fence during the Christmas vacation, and broke his leg.
VIRGIN MOTHER'S SODALITY
On the Feast of the Immaculate Conception the Virgin Mother's Sodality held their meeting at which the following officers were elected:
Mary Devaney, 1538 Buck Ave., President;
Virginia Jones, 1034 Tamm Ave., Vice-President;
Margaret Oates, 6811 Waldemar Ave., Secretary;
Margaret McDonnell, 1104 Forest Ave., Treasurer;
Loretta Cooper, 1515 Tamm Ave., Medal Bearer.
The members present pledged themselves to make the Sodality a more energetic, active organization. They propose to make a special effort to bring all the public school children in the parish into the catechetical instructions that are being held at 4 o'clock each Friday, and to see that the children are present at 9 o'clock mass each Sunday. They also determined to advertise Catholic literature in the community, and to arouse and interest in the many admirable novels that have been written by Catholic authors.
Father O'Connor said he proposed to have no one in the Sodality who would not be willing to become all active parish worker.
On the first Sunday of the month there was a profession of members and the following young ladies were enrolled: Ethel Barry, Margaret Irvin, Cornelia Gruner, Loretta Cooper, Mary Harris, Margaret Oates. Teresa Jones, Francis Doering, Helen Oates, Catherine Mahon, Josephine Moellenbeck, Helen Mahon, Geraldine Arlt, Dolores Arlt, Rose Gioia, Teresa Gioia, Edna Saxton, Amelia Aydt.
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Mrs. B. Weaver whose sister was killed January 2nd, by an automobile at Manchester and Prather Aves., has the consolation of knowing that the deceased lady was at communion the morning of the day she met with the fatal accident.
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Mr. Joseph Pauk purchased the next lot south of the rectory from Evans and Howard at the suggestion of Father O'Connor. He intends building there a double decker flat at a cost of about $12,000.
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Make haste with the marriage, Lent begins February 17th.
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Mrs. Bayers, 6929 Magnolia Ave., who has been a patient in the Deaconess Hospital during the past three weeks, came home on Wednesday. Her condition is not much improved.
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Catherine Cullen, daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Cullen, 1111a Central Ave., was given permission by Father O'Connor to be married at Chicago on Thursday, December 31st. Mr. John Jay Woodmansee is the fortunate fellow.
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Throats will be blessed on the Feast of St. Blase, February 3rd, after the morning masses and at 3:30 and 8 p. m.
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Miss Minnie Carreras has been re-employed as organist at St. James Church. During the past six years she played at St. Malachy's. She hopes to have a splendid choir trained for the opening of the new church.
ANNUAL MEETING OF THE HOLY NAME SOCIETY
At the annual meeting of the Holy Name Society, December 14, 1925, the principal matter of business was the election of officers.
The new officers are
Mr. Bernard P. Brady was appointed as delegate to attend meetings of the Archdiocesan Union during the next three years. There are three such delegates, the other two being Mr. H. Hager, who has just one more year to serve, and Mr. George Wiber, who has two more years to serve..
The meeting was not so well attended, but nevertheless there was plenty of zestful competition for the various offices. Besides Mr. Oats, the nominees for the presidency were Mr. Bernard Brady and Mr. J. P. Harris. For the office of vice-president there were four nominees, Mr. Michael Maloney, Mr. D. F. Collins, Mr. Bernard Brady and Mr. Hugeback, the successful one. Mr. Mike Maloney ran a close second to Mr. Hugeback.
Mr. John J. Kelly was opposed for the office of secretary by Mr. D. F. Collins, who lost by merely one vote. In fact, the favor shown for Collins was responsible for his being elected to the office of assistant secretary.
This will be Mr. Kelly's fourth year as secretary of the Society, and his re-election this time very nearly caused him to lose his happy home. Before coming to the meeting he received explicit instructions from his wife to decline any further offers for the secretaryship of the Society because he has been using altogether too many of the children's note books for the minutes of the Holy Name meetings.
Mr. Boyer was elected to the office of treasurer by acclamation.
Father O'Connor, Spiritual Director of the Holy Name Society, welcomed the new officers and wished them every success in their work during the coming year.
A piano has been purchased by the Holy Name, and at the annual meeting it was decided to charge a rental of $5.00 for each time it is used by other societies until the treasury has been reimbursed for the cost of the piano. Mr. Anthony Palumbo was appointed custodian of the piano.
In future, the meetings of the Holy Name Society will be held quarterly in place of monthly, as heretofore. The next meeting will be in February, on the evening of the second Monday of the month.
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 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'S GO."
Dear Parishioner;
I feel I come closer to your ear when I write you a letter and can more easily explain to you the thoughts that are constantly recurring to my mind.
We should build a church so devotional and beautiful as to be a source of inspiration to all who enter it; the kind of building that arouses in the heart a holy emotion and that inclines one to linger in reverence.
Rubbing up against a selfish world makes our hearts callous and cold; when we come to church we would like to find our generous better nature bursting the shell and expanding in sentiments. of love and good will. Such a feeling as the apostles had when they uttered in the presence of the Transfigured Christ, "Lord, it is good to be here."
A beautiful church usually produces this effect in the minds of the well disposed. It speaks to the soul and stimulates the emotions. It is a sermon in stone, a refuge in times of mental distress, a help to salvation.
One of the parishioners recently said to me, "Father, I would rather see you wait ten years than erect an ugly unattractive church." He expressed my own thoughts, but my hands are now tied; I am bound to keep my promise of letting the contract in January.
At the parish meeting it was decided that the church must have a seating capacity of at least 750. That means a large church, and unless we have a sufficient fund when we begin, we cannot expect a very beautiful church without imposing on the parish an intolerable debt.
Hence I would ask each wage earner to give not less than 4 per cent of his income this year to the church. You won't miss it if you put the amount into the envelope on receiving your pay; four cents of each dollar that you earn is not an enormous sacrifice to make. There will be still 96 cents left for your bodily needs, and you will get on better with that much and God's blessing than with the whole dollar and God's frown.
Don't say, "I will pay it all in one sum at the end of the year." With few exceptions people who say that prove that “Hell is full of good intentions!"
Yours sincerely in Christ,
PATRICK J. O'CONNOR.
A BEAUTIFUL CHURCH
Many irritations come our way in the course of a day, things go wrong in the best regulated families; the mind colors the objects around it with a touch of what it finds within itself. A Fifth Avenue mansion is as open to the shafts of grief as is the miner's hut of clay. Luxurious apartments, turkish bath, and French chefs do not make men happy The soul requires its own food. Spiritual starvation is more prevalent among the rich than bodily starvation is among the poor. More important are the things that bring peace to the mind than those that minister to bodily comfort.
In the desert, amidst the shifting, burning sands, the traveler hopes to reach, before his strength is spent, the oasis, where he shall rest under the cool shade of the palm tree and drink of the refreshing fountain. The church is the oasis in this desert of burning cares and weary labors. There a man hopes on Sunday to lay down his heavy pack of worldly anxieties and refresh his weary soul.
The church building to be in keeping with the inspiring message of God's love, should have all those elements that appeal to the man's thoughts from the sordid things of earth. The soothing tones of the organ, falling midst the soft light from stained glass windows within a beautiful edifice, dispose a man to feel that Heaven is near.
Money spent on a beautiful church is well spent. One thinks little of paying $500 for the furnishing of his sitting room. The church is the ante-chamber of the home; it is the spiritual banquet hall for the family. The fact that it is used by others does not deprive it of that privacy which man wants when he retires to meditate. Your parish church is a very important portion of your property. Do your share to make it possible to erect a building that will be inspiring and beautiful. If you want the best you must pay the price.
LENT
Lent is a time set apart by the church for penance and acts of self-denial.
After the eternal punishment due to mortal sin is remitted there still remains a debt called temporal punishment which must be paid in this life or the next. Voluntary penance satisfies this demand and the church exhorts all who have sinned to discharge this debt during Lent.
Lent is also a time for increasing merit and advancing in sanctity. Christ, who never sinned, fasted and prayed in the desert for forty days.
Acts of self-denial are the most potent exercises for character building. Each day one should deny himself something in order to gain self-control. Sin is an indulgence of a passion or a selfishness and is the mark of a weakling. Virtue is taken from the Latin word "vir;" which means a man! Virtue means manly strength, habitual self-control and self-denial in conformity with the will of God.
Practical Acts of Self-Denial
Refraining from amusements and luxuries such as cards, dances, tobacco, sweets and shows. Abstaining from unnecessary food and complying with the abstinence from meat on days on which the church forbids it.
Men who drink owe it to themselves to put on the brakes during Lent. A habit of drink easily grows and has ruined the career of many. A man who can deny himself the glass during Lent needs have no fear of becoming a drunkard.
Practical Devotions
Daily mass, weekly confession and communion; attendance at the public devotions, especially at the Stations of the Cross.
Reading a few good books, such as the Holy Gospels, the life of our Lord, etc., etc.
Lent begins February 17th. There will be distribution of ashes Wednesday morning after each mass, in the afternoon at 3:30 and at night after devotions.
Working men and their families are permitted the use of meat at the principal meal all days of Lent except Ash Wednesday, Wednesday and Saturday of Holy Week and on Fridays.
Hours of Devotion
CHILDREN'S EXAMINATION
The school children were given report sheets on Tuesday on their recent examination. Sister Gabriel requested the children to have their parents sign them before they are returned to her. Children who have not succeeded in making the grade will be given an opportunity of making up the work before the end of the school term. In future, diplomas will not be awarded to any child who has not passed.
The following children of St. James School made the highest marks in the recent examination in their respective classes
BAPTISMS IN JANUARY
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Mrs. John Wack, 1546 Tamm Avenue, gave birth to twins Saturday, January 30th. She has ten children living, seven boys and three girls.
PRESIDENT UNTIL SHE REMARRIES
Mrs. Bovard was again elected President of the Mothers' Club much to her disappointment. She states that the people of Benton greet her as Mayor Kiel. Father O'Connor suggested that she be appointed for life as she was a splendid president. A voice in the hall "or till she gets married again."
On the way from the meeting she said, "I would like to tell you ladies what I think about you.” Mrs. Hefele replied, "You have been retained in office because you are so capable of holding your tongue. We all admire this exceptional trait in a woman."
Mrs. McDonnell was elected Vice-President and Mrs. Wiber and Mrs. White continue in office as secretary and treasurer respectively.
The Mothers' Club in their annual report state that their efforts have been directed to giving a warm lunch to the children at cost. They also find it necessary to keep a supply of candies and sweets to meet the demands of the children. During the past year there was a deficit in the treasury presumably because of the loss in the sale of candy. Mrs. Irvin was appointed to take care of the candy counter during the year 1926 and to appoint ladies who will be responsible to her for its sale. It was decided that the candy counter would be closed on days when her representative was not present.
Many mothers have complained that the children spend all their money in purchasing candy and go without lunch. The sisters and the ladies in charge make every effort to encourage the children to buy more milk and less candy. If a child has only five cents, they insist that it buys a lunch.
The Club sold about $1,500 worth of lunches during the past year.
With funds which they have received from their euchres and lottos they have purchased chairs for the parish hall and euchre tables, also the equipment for tables for banquets, and the balance of the fund has been applied for maps for the school, blackboards and other requirements. In many instances they have given free books and free lunches to poor children.
CATHOLIC INSTRUCTION CENTER
The Catholic Instruction Center, under the direction of Father Henry, S. J., has been holding a class every Sunday in the School Hall for the education and recreation of children not attending the parochial school. Last Sunday there were 50 present. George Wiber operated the picture machine.
Mr. Maher, a Jesuit Scholastic, exhibited on the lantern pictures of the mass. Mr. Birch, Mr. and Mrs. Henkle, Mr. and Mrs. Stiff assisted in the hall and the Young Ladies' Sodality was represented by Mary Devanney, Vera Bersch and Cecelia Badendieck.
APOSTLESHIP OF PRAYER
The Apostleship of Prayer Society reports a number of special favors that have been granted through the prayers of the members scattered through the world. One member reports a cure from rheumatism. Another a return to the practice of religion, and the baptism of an infant. Those seeking favors are requested to send in their requests preceding the Holy Hour, so that they may be placed on the Altar during this devotion.
The promoters, in their endeavor to encourage the reading of Catholic literature, have established on the second Sunday of the month a Catholic Magazine Exchange at the door of the church. Mrs. Nixon is in charge of the 7:30 Mass, Marie Pate the 9 and Mrs. Combrevis at 10.
Those who desire a special magazine can purchase one at a slight cost or get it in exchange for another.
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The River Des Peres sewer is made in Benton and the portion near Scullin’s Plant is now under construction.
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Mr. Arnold, 6507a Manchester Avenue, is at Barnes Hospital, where he recently underwent a very serious operation. His condition is satisfactory.
FATHER O'CONNOR SEES THE CHARLESTON
Mary Wilson and Louise Bawn gave an exhibition of the Charleston at a meeting of the Dramatic Club, which was held January 20th in the, school hall. Father O'Connor was asked what he thought about it. He smilingly replied, "The girl who can dance that is capable of becoming a mountain climber."
Miss Maria Kelley, 6903 Mitchell Avenue, gave a recitation entitled "The Baseball Game." It was evident she is a skilled elocutionist. She was given extended applause.
Estelle Coad read a poem by Aloysius Mahon, a welcome to the class of 1925. About forty members of the association danced after the entertainment.
Raymond Usher in the course of the evening sang several songs. Refreshments were served by the officers.
The next meeting of the society will be held Thursday, February 11th, in the school hall. There will be songs, dances, one-act plays and refreshments. The following will entertain John O’Shaughnessy, Randall Dwyer, James Dwyer, Loretto Cooper, Cornelia Gruner, Genevieve Martineau. Refreshments committee: Arthur Pahl, Eleanor Bannon, Alvinia Barr, Viola Barr and Virginia Jones.
PARISH MEETING – HOW BIG A CHURCH?
Chairman Mr. Crotty asked Father O'Connor to give an outline of the work to be taken up by the organization during the year.
In his opening remarks, Father facetiously spoke of the birthday of the organization falling on the same day as the birthday of the secretary. "We are," he said, "tonight celebrating two birthdays, one of this organization and the other of the secretary. We know the parish organization is one year old, but we have no accurate knowledge of the age of the secretary. The two have done very well during the past year, the secretary got married and the parish organization has been accomplishing what it set out to do."
Purpose of Parish Organization
"The Parish organization has for its purpose three aims; namely, creating a better social feeling among parishioners; increasing parish revenue, and deliberating on questions that can be better solved by the priests consulting with the parishioners."
Know More Faces
"It has done a great deal of good during the past year in, getting the parishioners acquainted; many of them were strangers in the parish a year ago and now they claim they are acquainted with half the congregation. It is a pleasure to come to church where you are greeted by a number of your neighbors."
An Increase in Revenue
"Its second aim was to increase revenue. This it has accomplished, as the revenue increased $3,000 in the past year.
Questions to be Solved
"This year the organization will devote the greater part of its efforts to solving questions that pertain to the new church. Older priests have advised me to spend a year preparing the plans. I intend doing so and having everything ready for the letting of the contract at the end of the year."
Size of Church
"Tonight I would ask you to discuss this question and come to a decision; later in the evening I will submit other matters for your consideration. There is, "Father continued, "a great deal of vacant property in this parish; perhaps there is not less than 800 acres. All of the property north of West Park has a market value not less than $30 a foot and that portion near the park is estimated to be worth from $50 to $100. Owners of this ground will not leave it vacant very long. Taxes are increasing, interest is being lost and most of the owners have been so long waiting for a market they are availing themselves of the boom that is now affecting this territory; they will sell as soon as they can and the buyer will erect a home. This means an increased population and a demand for a larger church. The Evens and Howard property south of the Rectory and east of Tamm Avenue is expected to be sold soon. They were recently offered a fair price and may accept it. True, this property is not high priced, but when it is opened, the poor man's home will come and with it the large family. We, as a parish, are more interested in souls than pocketbooks, and we must consider those facts when planning a new church."
Mr. Coad: "The present church will seat about 470 people. It is well filled at most of the masses, and with growth of the parish I think we ought to provide an additional 50 per cent seating capacity."
Mr. Martineau: "I believe, as Mr. Coad does, that the church should seat about 750 people. The property east of Hampton Avenue will eventually build up with factories and bring laborers to the parish; however, along Oakland Avenue and those streets close to the park, west to the parish boundary, will probably be built with homes costing between $10,000 and $25,000. Clayton Road has become one of the main arteries entering the city on the south side of the park."
Mr. Hugeback: "I have been around a good deal and observed that churches, in other parishes like this, have a seating capacity of about 500."
Mrs. McDonnell suggested about 800, and requested Mr. John G. Houlihan to give an opinion. "It won't be long," she said, "until the young Houlihans will require a whole church for themselves."
Mr. Crotty: "We should also give some thought to the needs for special occasions such as Easter, - Good Friday, Christmas Eve and the times of a Mission."
Father Pohl said that it was unnecessary to have more space to heat, build and decorate than would be used ordinarily; the picture show houses say all their profits come from those that are standing.
Mr. Martin Coad: "We must consider the length of the ground and the proper proportions of a church. After 30 feet is taken off for an entrance and ten feet in the back for a passageway, you cannot build a church and keep proper proportions if you look for a seating capacity of more than 750. I doubt even if you have room for 750."
Mr. Boman: "I make a motion that we build a church that will have a nominal seating capacity of 750; this may mean more or less according to the judgment of the architect. A seating capacity of 750 would take care of a great deal more on special occasions, as chairs could be put in the aisles and usually in large churches there is a good deal of space between the front pews and the altar railing which could be also utilized."
Mr. Pierce: "I second the motion."
On a vote being taken it was evident that all who were present were in favor of building a church that would have, a seating capacity of about 750.
Father O'Connor: "I am glad that you have come to this decision; it agrees with that of the Archbishop. He said when the parish gets larger you will be getting another assistant and having six masses. A church that has a seating capacity of about 750 will more than take care of a normal parish congregation."
Test the Ground
"Another question to be considered is, is our ground safe to build upon? I have been assured by Mr. Gibbons and other old settlers that this ground has not been undermined for clay, but as there is some uncertainty as to where the old coal mines were, it may be well for us to have the ground tested by boring a distance of about 60 feet."
Mr. Riegel: "What will it cost?"
Mr. Boman: "It would depend upon the space to be tested. I have good reason for believing it would not cost more than $200 to have the building site tested."
Mr. Riegel: "Regardless of the cost, I think we ought to play safe."
Mr. Jenneman: "Does Mr. Gibbons think the ground was undermined for coal?"
Father O'Connor: "Mr. Gibbons says there hasn't been any coal mining in this locality for 50 years. There was a coal mine in the adjoining property and he believes it did not go north of Wade Avenue. The coal mines, he said, were not more than five feet in depth and in all probability the ground filled in long ago."
Mr. Martineau: "Why not have a committee appointed at once to make proper investigation. If the ground were undermined perhaps we wouldn't be able to build on that site. Better find out in time."
Mr. Crotty: "Even if there was a coal mine, construction work would remedy the danger to the building."
Mr. Martineau: "I make a motion that the chair be empowered to appoint a committee who will confer with engineers about testing the ground."
Mr. Pierce: "I second the motion."
Motion carried and the chair appointed Mr. J. P. O'Gorman and Mr. Will Boman, with instructions that they were to incur no expense before reporting at the next meeting.
Survey of the Ground
Father O'Connor said that before calling in architects he thought it was necessary to have a survey of the church plot, so that they will have a chart to work on showing elevation of ground, depth of sewers and street levels. He added if we had once decided upon the plan of the church we could give out the contract for grading in the early winter, when excavators were not so busy. Mr. McCauley agreed with this suggestion and said the contract for excavation need not be included in the general contract and if this were done ahead it would mean an earlier start for the building.
The meeting authorized Father O'Connor to give out a contract for the survey, so that architects could be called in to discuss designs for the new church.
Meeting adjourned.
FOUR PER CENT ENVELOPES
The four per cent envelopes have been delivered by the school children during the past week and it is expected that everyone will contribute their just share to the parish revenue. Should you not receive a package apply at once to the rectory.
Those who decide not to contribute should return the envelopes immediately.
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The St. James Alumni Dramatic Club are well on their way to be social entertainers in the community. - Under the direction of Mr. S..F. Halley they are preparing a play, entitled "It Happened in June." They expect to stage it soon after Easter.
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Since Will Hense gave up the soccer team, they say everything is strictly business about the store. No more delayed orders; no more items short.
The Henses feel that they were given a raw deal and cheated out of the soccer championship; and there is some justification for their grievance. "Life on the hill just ain't the same."
Though their lapse of interest in soccer may have benefited the grocery business, it certainly has put a crimp in neighborhood athletics. Hense seems to be the only one capable of gathering and holding together the necessary talent for a successful team, and it seems a pity that this guidance which our youngsters are so much in need of should be lost to them.
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Mrs. May Bisso, 2226 McCausland Avenue, had a family gathering last week on the occasion of her birthday. She is over sixty and not afraid to climb the hill to St. James Church every Sunday.
SCARLET FEVER
There appears to be a slight epidemic of scarlet fever in the neighborhood. So far no case has been reported among the children of the parochial school: Last year it decimated every class because people whose children contracted the disease were careless and permitted them whilst they were still "peeling" to mix with others in the streets.
Often a child has so slight an attack a doctor is not called. Herein lies the danger to other children. If you have any suspicion that your child has scarlet fever, keep it confined as long as there is any sign of peeling.
FATHER O'CONNOR'S WHITE DOG
Father O'Connor lost his white dog a week ago. It is worth about $150, as it is high bred and well trained. Has one brown ear and is about two years old. Answers to the name of "Gypsy." Parishioners are asked to be on the lookout for it.
YOUR CHILDREN
Those outside the church judge us according to our conduct. The school children make a very poor impression upon the non-Catholics of the community by their tantalizing disregard for neighbors' property. As they go along the street many of them are mischievous and destructive. They run upon lawns, tear up flowers and shrubs, break fences, take tools and other things that lay around homes.
It is known that some of the parents are aware of these pranks, and it is well to remind them that their indifference to the activities of the children will only assist them to the penitentiary.
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LET'S GO is a mirror of the Catholic and social life of the community. Fifty years from now copies that are preserved will be very interesting reading for the children who are yet unborn. They will search in its pages for their fathers' and mothers' names and they will be very delighted if it appears that their parents took an active interest in parochial affairs the year the church was built. Father O'Connor intends having a set of copies bound in book form and preserved in the rectory. If there are others in the parish who desire to have copies bound, he assures them the expense will be a trifle, provided they have the copies.
St. James Parish is most favorably situated on the hills along the south line of the western part of Forest Park, with excellent drainage and fine landscaping possibilities for every home.
Public improvements are in full swing. Our South Forest Park Improvement Association is pestering the city officials continuously. Among those completed are improvement of Oakland, Clayton, Louisville, Kraft, Famous, Waldemar, Garner, West Park, Nashville and Wise, opening of Lloyd, Wade, Villa and Childress, granitoid walks on Lloyd and Plateau from Tamm to Dale.
Other improvements are coming along through the tedious processes of the Board of Public Service, the Board of Aldermen, the City Law Department, etc., among which are improvement of Childress, Dale, Cutter, Berthold, Kraft, Adeline, Art Hill and Graham, sewers in River Des Peres Section C, Cheltenham Joint District (Manchester to Clayton and Tamm to Hampton), Dale Avenue District No. 6 (Buck Avenue), and Manchester Avenue District No. 6; granitoid walks on both sides Clayton from Hampton to McCausland, West Park, Knox and Kraft.
The certainty of a large increase in population justifies us, yes, demands, that, in planning our new church, we must take into account the St. James congregation of the next 25 or 50 years.
Adequate church and school facilities are a very large factor in the building of a community. Our people will readily see that home and business property in the parish will be benefited by such facilities.
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Mrs. Gibbs, mother to Mrs. Kavanaugh, 6811 Wise Ave., recently returned to the parish. The mothers' club, mindful of the many prizes they received from her in the past, gave her a hearty welcome.
Mrs. Placke had a birthday party last week. Several of the ladies of the parish were present and congratulated her on her remarkable recovery from her recent illness.
Father O'Connor wonders if St. Ann's is a married ladies' sodality. The members seem to have no man who will bring back the old pews that were taken out of the church by them for the euchre and lotto.
You know where you're going St. Patrick's Night. The Mothers' Club will give their annual Minstrel Show at Yale Hall.
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 at 8:00 P.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.
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This is undoubtedly the best show the Holy Name Society has ever prepared, and a capacity crowd is expected. The Boosters' Club is on the job. Look for a full house.
This is the last entertainment to be given until St. Patrick's Day, so don't miss it.
Preceding the entertainment, at 7:30, the quarterly meeting of the Holy Name Society will be held. The hall will open to others at 8:15 p.m. The Holy Name Society expects to have a large attendance at communion on the following Sunday as this is the quarterly period. A number of new members will be received.
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 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'S GO."
Dear Parishioner;
I have been turning over the leaves in the Parish Account Books, selecting the names of those to whom I shall send the quarter-a-week collectors. I have been very much impressed with the amount which the majority of you have contributed during the past two months and the regularity with which you have been sending in your envelopes. No matter how small the contribution may be, when given Sunday after Sunday, it counts up with the others and helps to make a big permanent income. The Sunday you do not contribute your customary sum the collection falls back that much, and when a number fail on an occasion the continued omission is very noticeable, and is somewhat depressing even to an enthusiast.
I am now puzzled as to what I should do with those good, faithful ones who were regular contributors the greater part of last year, and who, during the past few months, have not been sending in their envelopes. If they fail much longer to give their offerings our chances of a Big Year are ruined. I don't like to make any demand of them. Some of them may be sick or out of work. I think I will submit a special intention to the Apostleship of Prayer and leave it go at that. The promoters assure me that most of the favors recently asked have been granted. I would ask you all to be faithful to this weekly obligation. If you have not been a contributor your assistance is solicited; no matter how little you can give your contribution will be appreciated. The ocean is made up of drops, and harvest of single seeds, the big Sunday collections of individual donations.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
PATRICK J. O'CONNOR.
STONE OR BRICK FOR NEW CHURCH
An Interesting Discussion
Mr. O'Toole, representing the St. Louis Contracting Company, was present at the last parish meeting and gave information tending to make it possible to discuss intelligently whether the proposed new church should be built of stone or brick.
He has had much experience in the construction of churches. His company erected Holy Rosary Church, Our Lady of Lourdes and St. Ann's Church of St. Louis.
When Father O'Connor introduced him he said undoubtedly Mr. O'Toole would make out a case in favor of a stone building, as his was mostly a stone contracting company, but later on the other side of the question would be presented by an individual representing the interest of brick manufacturers, so he warned Mr. O'Toole to be very careful about his statements.
Mr. O'Toole said that Mr. Boman invited him to confer with what he thought was 'a few' of the parishioners, but he felt somewhat embarrassed at finding himself present at a parish meeting; however, he said he hoped to give the information that was expected of him, and when he got through he would be glad to answer any question which might be asked of him.
Mr. O'Toole said that there is a variety of stone used in construction in the St. Louis district, the cost of which depended upon the quality of the rock, the labor expended in preparing it, the freight in hauling it, etc.
He would, he said, give comparative prices on rock quarried in Missouri.
Comparative Prices
Red unfinished granite, such as has been used in the Font Bonne College, would cost $1.95 a square foot.
Limestone rubble facing, $1.50.
Brown stone, such as is used in the church at Union and Kingshighway and Holy Rosary Church, $1.40.
He personally preferred red granite as being more durable, non-porous, and neater in appearance, though he admitted the limestone rock from the Big Bend Quarry was in much favor by many who sought elegance and durability.
Father O'Connor asked what would be the cost of a wall 100 feet long, 20 feet high and 18 inches thick. Mr. O'Toole replied that he would figure it in a few minutes, and estimated that granite would cost $3,900, limestone $2,900 and a shale brick about the same cost as limestone. "Of course," he added, "the real expense of building a wall must be estimated not in accordance with the material used in the main portion of the wall; the number of openings, the ornamentation and trimmings increase the cost immensely, and," he said, "a contractor can scarcely give a just estimate before the architect presents his plans."
Mr. Huger, a local contractor and a parishioner, who resides at 1033 Louisville Avenue, asked if the walls were to be backed with brick and stone faced. Father O'Connor said it would interest the meeting to be told how church walls usually were constructed.
Mr. O'Toole replied that stone walls were usually backed with brick or tile.
Mr. O'Gorman: "Mr. O'Toole, when you speak of a wall of granite backed with brick, what proportion would be granite and what would be brick?"
Mr. O'Toole answered in an l8-inch wall about 9 inches will be rock.
Mr. O'Gorman: "When two materials are used, is there not a danger of the wall separating?"
Mr. O'Toole: "The materials are bonded by ties and headers, so that the wall is as strong as if a single material were used."
Limestone
Mr. Crotty: "Mr. O'Toole, do you think that limestone is durable?"
Mr. O'Toole: "Absolutely. There is no question about a hard grade of limestone such as is quarried at Manchester and Dale Avenues and Big Bend."
Father O'Connor: "Is there not a noticeable decomposition in the rock of the College Church?"
Mr. O'Toole: "Yes, in a part of the building where the contractor used a different rock from that which was specified. A porous limestone will not stand this climate."
Father O'Connor: "Mr. O'Toole, do you like the looks of red granite after some years? Doesn't it get a dirty color?"
Mr. O'Toole: "Not red granite. It is so hard that the water won't get into it. It won't take moisture. Red granite is the hardest granite in the United States. The best example of red granite is a house on Westmoreland which is over thirty years old and looks like new. It is hammered, but Washington University is another sample of red granite. A great many today want to get different colors in the work; at Concordia Seminary there are five different colors in the building and it has some limestone mixed in. At Washington University they put in the rusty granite. Now, there is a church at Wydown just west of Skinker which is a very good example of granite work, church, school and rectory all together; church since 1913 and school since 1919. That will give you an idea as to how it looks. Font Bonne College will look better in a few years than it does now."
Father O'Connor: "Mr. O'Toole, I understand that red granite when blasted in the quarry comes out in rough, jagged masses, difficult to handle and costly to work."
"That is true, father, but I gave you the price per foot at which it can be laid, and after you have let the contract the masons and the contractors will have to do the worrying."
Dampness
Father O'Connor: "Is a stone wall that is not backed with brick subject to dampness and difficult to plaster?"
Mr. O'Toole: "Yes, the cost of plastering is increased, but the dampness can be prevented by furring."
Father O'Connor: "What exactly is furring?"
Mr. O'Toole: "Inserting into the wall or behind the plaster a material such as wood that will absorb the moisture. Furring is objectionable because wood decays and the wire used in plastering in time gets rusty. Brick or tile backing is much to be preferred."
Father O'Connor: "I notice that there was little steel used in the construction of Holy Rosary Church. Is it cheaper to carry the roof of the building on rock piers or on steel?"
Mr. Huger: "Steel is the cheapest material we have in building today, costing only 5 ½ cent a pound; it takes up less space and the walls need not be as thick, but it is a matter of taste; the piers are often preferred for decoration purposes."
Mr. O'Toole: "Has anyone any other question to ask me; if not I'd like to be excused."
Father O'Connor: "We are very thankful to you, Mr. O'Toole, for attending our meeting and giving us this information. It will be very helpful to us. Before leaving will you please answer one more question. Is the usual length of the wall of a church about forty feet?"
Mr. O'Toole: "No, about twenty feet."
Father O'Connor: "Isn't the College and Rock Church more than twenty feet high?"
Mr. O'Toole: "You mean the gable, Father. Yes the gable is usually about forty feet."
Mr. Huger: "Father, I would advise you not to decide on the material until the plans are drawn, then ask the contractors to submit estimates on different materials."
Information for Architects
Father O'Connor: "The idea we have in mind, Mr. Huger, is this: When we call in an architect he will say, 'What is the building going to cost?' 'What is the seating capacity to be, and what materials do you intend using?' This is very important if we expect him to make blue prints that will be accurate and practical. Before calling in an architect I think we ought to decide on the material to be used in the church. From the discussion it seems to me that stone will cost about ten per cent more than brick and that there would be a difference of ten or fifteen thousand dollars in the cost. And now to bring the matter to a conclusion, and as the Mothers' Club are preparing a play for St. Patrick's night and are anxious to have the hall for a practice, it is necessary that we take a vote to get an idea whether the meeting favors brick or stone."
Mr. Crotty: "Will someone make a motion to bring the matter before the house?"
Father O'Connor: "I will present the question, ladies and gentlemen: Supposing a stone. building would cost one-third more than a brick building and that a brick building would cost even more than we can afford, how many would be in favor, regardless of the cost, of having a stone building?"
On a show of hands being taken the vast majority were in favor of a stone building.
Mr. Houlihan: "Father O'Connor, you are a genius for presenting a question. If you stated it differently the vote would not be the same."
Father O'Connor: "Mr. Houlihan, you have the floor; state the question any way you please."
Mr. Houlihan said he was satisfied with the conclusion.
Testing the Ground
Mr. W. T. Boman, in behalf of the committee who were appointed to investigate if the site intended for the new church was safe to build upon, submitted information volunteered by Aegerter & Bailey, architects, 1904 Railway Exchange Building.
No Mines
The report is as follows: "From the investigation made today, it appears on the face of all records, consultations and conversations, that no mines nor tunnels nor excavated rooms occur under said property, yet I do not feel that I desire to definitely make a statement and have a third party build a costly building on same without progressing further with this investigation.
We know that the records of clay mines are not accurately kept and the Evens and Howard plat indicates that they came up to Tamm Avenue to the lot line on the east side of said street and that the Highland Pottery Company came not closer than 600 feet of your lot, according to their records, yet it is possible that either with intention or inadvertently these drifts or rooms may have extended beyond the point indicated on the records.
We have ascertained from surveys that there are three stratas of clay in this neighborhood, separate one from another by layers of stones.
No one would be able to tell by the ordinary drilling whether drifts or tunnels exist underneath your property. The method of procedure here would be a steel sound and a stone drill.
Mr. Crotty: "Since the committee were authorized to incur no expense and as they have procured the information desired, it is evident that we can go no further in this matter without calling in a contractor to make a final test of the ground."
Father O'Connor: "I propose that we leave the matter rest until it has been definitely decided where the foundation of the church is to lay."
This suggestion met with the approval of the meeting and the chair asked if there was any other matter to be discussed.
Build a Convent and Rectory Also
Mr. Heil: "Ladies and gentlemen, in addition to building a church, I propose that we include in our plans a convent and rectory. The immediate need for a church is not urgent; we could get along very well for some time with the one that we have were it not that we propose to abandon it to make room for additional school rooms. You cannot have additional school rooms unless you provide living quarters for more sisters. The present convent, as is known to most of you, is inadequate for the needs and the comfort of the present teaching staff.
Each room has two beds and little space. One of the sisters is compelled to sleep in a little room that is without heat, which was constructed over the stairs. Our sisters require more consideration and better treatment. I say let us build them a convent.
"The rectory, too, is old and will be a considerable distance from the new church. I suggest attaching a rectory as a south wing to the church and a convent to the north. I believe the three buildings can be erected for a cost of not more than $200,000, and if the three are constructed at the same time there will be a saving of from ten to fifteen thousand dollars.
"A heating plant sufficient to heat the three buildings also should be constructed and would in time be a considerable saving for the parish, as it would eliminate the necessity of digging a cellar for a heating plant and fuel.
"The old convent and rectory could be sold for about twelve or fourteen thousand dollars and this, with the fifteen thousand dollars saved on the construction of the three buildings, would give us one of them practically free."
Plan the Three Buildings
Mr. O'Gorman: "I agree with Mr. Heil that the three buildings should be planned at the same time, and when we are ready to let the contracts we will be better able to decide if the parish can shoulder so big an obligation."
Mr. Pierce: "I agree with Mr. Heil that money can be saved by erecting the three buildings at once. Unless we have more accommodation for new sisters there is no use speeding up the building of a new church."
Mrs. Manion: "I agree with Mr. Pierce and Mr. Heil that the three buildings should be put up if we can afford it."
Opposition
Mr. Crotty: "We should have half the money before we start the work"
Mr. Houlihan: "The company loaning us money will insist on payments being made each year. Should we borrow a hundred thousand dollars, the interest each year would be $6,000 and our present income would be further reduced by the amount of $3,000 which we at present derive from our investments.
Mr. Reece: "Mr. Huger, could we save fifteen thousand dollars by erecting the three buildings?"
Mr. Huger: "Yes, if the three buildings are erected at one time."
Mr. Reece: "I have been talking to two bonding companies and they are anxious to give us a loan of $100,000 provided that we have on hand another $100,000."
Mr. Crotty asked Mr. Hense for an opinion and he replied that he probably wouldn't be here when the church was built.
Mr. Crotty: "Don't be hanging crepe."
Father O'Connor: "Mr. Crotty, you probably misunderstood Mr. Hense; he means he is going to get married soon and go to California on his honeymoon."
Mr. Crotty asked Father O'Connor what he thought about the suggestion.
Father O'Connor: “We have set out to build a new church; for the time being let us defer the question of the rectory and a convent. We must not take on too large a debt. It appears to me that fifty thousand dollars is as much as the parish can carry."
Mr. Heil: "I do not agree with father. If he is afraid to put a debt on the parish for so good a purpose, I have lost my faith in his leadership."
Mr. Crotty: "I do not blame father for not wanting to assume so large a debt. You and I, Mr. Heil, may decide later to move to the West End; he will have to remain with the debt and his blond head will soon become white from worry.
The meeting adjourned.
Mr. O'Toole's Figures Upset by Hercules Construction Company
The Hercules Contracting Company, who erected the International Fur Exchange, Fourth and Market Streets, at a cost of $740,000, were asked by Father O'Connor to give the comparative prices between granite, limestone and brick. The following is their estimate of wall 100'x20'x18"
It is probable Mr. O'Toole made an error in his figures, but from both reports it is evident that the cost of rubble stone and matt face brick differs about 2% per cent, but as regards the difference between granite and brick, Mr. O'Toole's figures would imply that there is a difference of 33 1/3 per cent, whereas Mr. Hercules shows a difference of only 8 per cent.
Undoubtedly a truer estimate could be had by calling a third party.
BAPTISMS IN FEBRUARY
ADELE McVEY CONROY
This clever comedian will again lend her talents in behalf of the Mothers' Club Minstrel, to be given at Yale Hall on St. Patrick's Day.
Remembering her humorous antics on previous occasions, we look forward to another evening of genuine entertainment. Her clever imitations and ludicrous mimicry are a show in themselves, and they say she is better than ever in the new show. Do not miss it!
VIRGIN MOTHER’S SODALITY MEETING
After the usual devotions the sodality members met in the hall and discussed the possibility of organizing a basket ball team. Mary Emma Paul, 6705 Garner Avenue, and Marie O'Gorman were appointed as a committee of two to make the preliminary arrangements.
At an informal meeting held one evening after devotions it was reported that the team was now organized and that arrangements were made with Miss Thompson, principal of the George Dewey School, for the use of the gymnasium on Friday evenings.
Velma Trammel was authorized to purchase a basket ball and it was agreed that the ladies would meet on Friday evening after devotions and go in a body to play.
Refreshments were served by Genevieve Mahon, Cecelia Badendieck, Ethel Barry and Mary Sexton.
Virginia Jones and Rosemary Wiss were prize winners in a game that was played.
A discussion was held about the sodality adopting some means for raising funds for the new church, and it was agreed to present in the airdome at a later date the play known as the "Old Maids' Convention."
Father O’Connor complimented the young ladies on the work that was being done teaching the children in the Catholic Instruction Center, which meets each Sunday in the Parish Hall, and he exhorted them to extend their activities by aiding in organizing the Foreign Mission Society in the Parish.
It is understood that Reverend Mark Carroll of the Diocesan Missionary Society will address the sodality at the meeting which will be held in the School Hall Tuesday evening, March 9th, and all the members of the sodality are expected to be present.
LOUIE! THE BOWLER!
Ed Pierce, one of the editors of LET'S GO, is going to Toledo, Ohio, on the 12th of this month to take part in the Knights of Columbus National Bowling Tournament.
Mr. Pierce is a member of one of the teams League, of the Kain Council Bowling League along with Mr. Thomas Williford of St. James Parish.
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Holy Name members who were mailed tickets for Shrove Tuesday's entertainment are requested to make returns to one of the captains mentioned in the letter that accompanied the tickets or to the Marshals on Communion Sunday.
A guard of honor will be kept during Holy Thursday night in church before the Altar of Repose by St. James Branch of the Holy Name Society. Volunteers are called for and the president, Michael Oates, 6414 Nashville Avenue, requests members to notify him, stating what time they would prefer serving.
THE ALUMNI DRAMATIC CLUB
The monthly meeting of the Dramatic Club of St. James School Alumni Association was held Thursday, February 11th, in the school hall. Mr. Dan Murphy presided. Over sixty members were present.
Apart from the dancing and general choruses, special features were added by James Dwyer, who dramatized the "Trials of a Traffic Cop," Genevieve Martineau and Raymond Usher.
Refreshments were served by Arthur Pahl, Viola Barr, Eleanor Bannon and Virginia Jones.
Mr. Murphy reports that the play, "It Happened in June," will be ready for presentation Easter Week.
Alumni members are requested to note that the regular monthly meeting will be held in the school hall Thursday evening, March 11th, and no special notices are to be mailed to members.
CONVERTS AND ADULTS
A class for converts and adults is being conducted on Wednesday evenings in the Rectory at 8 p.m. Pass on the information to those who might be interested and volunteer to accompany them.
THE CATHOLIC INSTRUCTION CENTRE
One wonders where the children are from, but Sunday after Sunday there are new faces in the class that is being conducted at 1:30 p.m. by Father Henry, S. J., in the school hall.
The children are very delighted with the arrangement. It is not all catechism; there are movies, prizes and special events. On the Sunday before Lent there was a Valentine party and outdoor games. There is to be enrollment in the Scapulars Sunday, March 6th, and the pupils are to be assigned to classes.
The instruction is specially for Catholic children who attend the Public School. There are ninety-seven now enrolled; an instruction is given also on Friday afternoon at 4 p.m. by the priests of the parish.
JUBILEE INDULGENCES AND CONDITIONS FOR GAINING THEM
The indulgence to be gained through the Jubilee is a plenary indulgence -- the total remission of the temporal punishment due to sin.
As in the case of all other indulgences, in order to gain the jubilee Indulgence it is necessary to be in the state of grace -- free from mortal sin.
The Jubilee Indulgence may be gained only twice -- once for the person who performs the prescribed works, and once for the souls in purgatory.
If it is gained only once it may be applied for either of these intentions.
The Jubilee Indulgence may also be gained twice this year by those who gained it last year.
In order that it be gained twice the prescribed works of the Jubilee must all be performed a second time.
The Jubilee Indulgence may be gained any time during the year 1926 until midnight December 31; but we recommend that it be gained as soon as possible.
The conditions for gaining the Jubilee Indulgence are these four: Confession, Communion, Visits to designated churches and Prayers for the Pope.
Confession: Any confessor may be chosen for the Jubilee Confession.
The confession for gaining the jubilee Indulgence must be other than the annual confession prescribed by the laws of the church.
Communion: The Jubilee Communion may be received anywhere.
The Communion for gaining the jubilee Indulgence must be other than the Paschal Communion prescribed by the law of the churches.
Visits to Churches: The prescribed visits may be made before, between or after the Jubilee Confession and Communion; or they may be interrupted by the jubilee Confession or Communion.
The interval between the Confession, Communion and Visits is left to the individual; but they must all be completed before midnight, December 31st, next.
A Visit must not be otherwise of obligation -- for instance, to satisfy our obligation of attending Mass on Sunday.
The Visits to the Churches need not be made on foot.
The Visits should be made with the intention of worshipping God, and this intention should be manifested by one's exterior reverence.
The Designated Churches: Those persons whose parish church is situated within the limits of the City of St. Louis should visit once a day on five days (not necessarily consecutive days) the New Cathedral, Lindell Boulevard and Newstead Avenue; St. Francis Xavier Church, Lindell and Grand Boulevards; The Basilica of St. John the Apostle, Sixteenth and Chestnut Streets, and the Old Cathedral (Church of St. Louis of France), Second and Walnut Streets --thus making in all 20 visits.
The designated churches may be visited in any order, not necessarily in the order named. No other churches may be substituted for these four.
The term day in connection with these Visits is taken to mean either the natural day of twenty-four hours from midnight to midnight; or the ecclesiastical day from noon of one day until the midnight thirty-six hours later.
Prayers for the Pope: In addition to the general intention of the Pope the special intentions for the jubilee Indulgence are: "Lasting peace among nations; the conversion of those outside the True Fold; and the arrangement of conditions in the Holy Land in a way that will safeguard the rights of the Catholic religion."
Any prayers may be said. The number of prayers is left to the devotion of the individual. It is certain that the Our Father, Hail Mary and Gloria said five times (or the equivalent of these) are sufficient. It is a pious custom to say the prayers at each visit to church, but this is not necessary. They may be offered apart from the visits.
The prayers should be vocal prayers, but need not be said aloud. If said aloud they may be said alternately with a companion. (In this matter the usual concessions are made in favor of deaf mutes.)
It is not necessary when praying for the Holy Father to recall precisely what his intentions are.
Some Exceptions to the Above
Confessors are delegated to make such concessions as the respective peculiar circumstances of such persons warrant. These concessions may result in lessening the number of prescribed visits to churches; altering them in some way; or `even exchanging them for some other works of religion, piety or charity.
In the case of the sick, if the illness is so grave as to prevent one from Confession or Communion or both, the Confessor may also excuse the sick person from such obligations.
THE TRE ORE -- GOOD FRIDAY
The three hours devotion in memory of our Lord's three hours' agony will be held in St. James Church between 12 and 3 p. m. on Good Friday. Father Henry, S. J., will preach on the "Seven Last Words."
This sublime meditation on the death of our Blessed Saviour is attracting more attention each year, and the business world is beginning to recognize the fact that there is a big religious sentiment in favor of a half holiday.
Last year St. James Branch of the Holy Name Society requested the stores in this locality to close and the merchants unanimously consented to suspend business.
This will be the fifth year that the devotion has been held in St. James Church: each year the attendance has increased and the meditation has become more inspiring. Catholics should arrange with their employers so that they can leave in time for devotions -- suggest going to work an hour earlier.
Don't expect your employer to start the movement; your religious obligations are your own affair -- agitation is an indication of earnestness.
Protestant people need have no fear of attending this exercise. It is as Christian as the Cross and is an act of appreciation of God's love and of Christ's suffering and death for our Salvation.
HOLY NAME ENTERTAINMENT A PHENOMENAL SUCCESS
Michael Oates, the president of the Holy Name Society, achieved an unusual success in the Holy Name entertainment of Shrove Tuesday evening.
By 8 o'clock the parish hall was filled and the crowd was still coming. Father O'Connor, anticipating just such a happening because of the zeal and activity of the officers and captains of the branch, had the school hall ready for the overflow crowd, and the vaudeville performers passed from one hall to the other and gave a duplicate show. After both halls were filled late comers crowded around the door and many of them, finding it impossible to gain admission, went home.
The Shamrock Trio and the boxing held the stage a great deal of the evening.
Mr. Quinn and his band of merrymakers were encored several times and returned with some new hit of wit or melody.
The boxing did not appeal as much to the women as it did to the men; it was too realistic and, to the ladies, barbaristic. One lady was heard to exclaim to her husband, "Why does Father O'Connor permit it? Won't they hurt one another? It makes me sick. Let us go home." The husband answered, "Ah, pshaw, woman, don't you see the gloves they have on are as soft as a wool sack, but the boys are sure fighting." This seemed to be the opinion of all the men -- the boxing was a first-class exhibition of pugilistic art and the boys punished one another rather severely for a practice test.
Mr. Dobson, the monologist, though a stranger, seemed to have an unusual knowledge of the affairs of the community. He explained satisfactorily how hopeless is Father O'Connor's search for his dog. "I knew," he said, "Father 0'Connor would never get that dog back. Why, the very next day the Mothers' Club served hot dogs in the kitchen." The monologue was interrupted by a call for Mr. Ray Dolan. The audience, fearing a calamity had occurred in his home, searched the hall with their eyes for his person. "Here he is," somebody said. "Well," said the comedian, "tell him to come quickly to the cloak room his coat is leaking."
The Irish dancing by Mary Scanlon, the Hanley Sisters and the Barry Brothers brought back a touch of old times to many of the audience, and Edward Benda in the eccentric dance showed how the modern stage can harmonize rhythm and ridiculousness.
Smiling George Gibson, toastmaster, jester and general security against failure, filled in whatever time was unoccupied, and in intermissions that resulted from the comedians not passing quickly enough from one hall to another.
Genevieve Mahon, Charley Brady and Joe Flaherty furnished the music, and had difficulty in supplying extempore recitals demanded by the comedians.
The evening's entertainment proved very delightful, and the audience apparently were enthused by Mr. Oates' effort to furnish an evening's fun. Mr. Oates, however, disclaims any special distinction and credits the success of the evening to his able assistants, Sergt. Martineau, Michael Maloney, Stephen Boyer, James Harris, Francis Collins, Wm. Henkel, Joseph Crotty, R. F. Fish, Frank Strathman, J. J. Kelly, Mat McLaughlin, Henry Hugeback, Ed Hussman, B. P. Brady, Pat Connors, W. Hawkins, Pat and Pete McHugh and R. F. Hodnett.
MARRIAGES
ANNOUNCEMENTS FOR THE MONTH
Collection taken for the priests at all the masses.
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The Mothers' Club Minstrel Show, Wednesday, March 17th, at 8:15. Devotions that evening will be held at 7 o'clock
The :Mothers' Club Minstrel has become a parish institution. Given annually for the past two years, these shows have always drawn capacity houses. The coming show, the result of adding several years' experience to the natural ability of these industrious ladies, is to be, according to the advance notices, "bigger and better than ever." '
Mrs. Ben Plengemeir, that handsome interlocutor, is the "gentleman" who does the announcing, and argues with the end men.
APOSTLESHIP OF PRAYER OF THE LEAGUE OF THE SACRED HEART GUARD OF HONOR FOR THE FIRST FRIDAY
The Promoters of the Apostleship of Prayer have been very much encouraged by the number of Special Favors that have been granted recently in the parish. For some time they have been organizing a Guard of Honor, who will watch for a quarter of an hour before the Blessed Sacrament on the first Friday of the month. The above list will show that the greater part of the day is filled by those who are willing to give a quarter of an hour to the Blessed Sacrament in Honor of the Sacred Heart.
Parishioners desiring to serve are asked to send in their names to Miss Genevieve Mahon 1534 Tamm Avenue.
The promoters are anxious not only to have someone present every quarter of an hour during the day, but to have several in attendance.
END MEN
SOLOS
FUN
Conroy and Gittins
THE PRIZE CHARLESTON
THE DANCERS
Mrs. Sam Gittins sings coon songs in the style of Sophia Tucker, and doubles with Mrs. Conroy in creating side-splitting comedy.
Mrs. Bernard Quinn, "the dancing mother" as in previous shows, again promises to show us some new and fancy steps.
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 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'S GO."
The resurrection of Christ. His commission to his disciples.
WISH YOU ALL A VERY HAPPY EASTER
Dear Parishioner:
There are a number of problems pertaining to the new church which must be decided upon. The closer I study the question the greater possibilities I see for making mistakes. I don't mean glaring errors that shall be apparent to the inexperienced, but errors just the same that take from the style, beauty and usefulness of the building.
For instance, the selection of an architect, the church shall be his creation and will embody his ideas of beauty and strength. A comparatively unskilled architect may produce one building of neat proportions and excellent design, and a genius may create a monstrosity.
There is not an architect of any pretension but can plan a church, but usually excellency of design and creation of unique art is the work of genius.
Material, size, price and indebtedness are also important items and give an opportunity at each step along the way for keen judgment and good sense
I am studying the whole question with the humility of one who knows he has lots to learn, but with a confidence that I will know a great deal about building before the work is undertaken. I have many professors and am much amused in observing how thoroughly convinced every architect and contractor is that he, himself, is about the very ablest, best and most economical man in the business, and that every school and church in the city in which he had not a guiding hand is a deplorable failure.
I have a great deal of consolation in the thought that a number of the parishioners will remain by my side and share with me the responsibility of arriving at decisions that will lead up, I hope, to the very best results. After Easter, The Boosters' Club and myself intend visiting a number of churches that have been recently erected, and getting all the information from the pastors that may be helpful for our purpose. We are fortunate to have much time and opportunity for investigation and the parishioners may feel assured we will leave no stone unturned in our efforts to improve our judgment in all matters that pertain to the selection of the best men and material for the perfection of the undertaking.
But whilst I attach much importance to these human efforts, I am mindful that the best laid plans of men and mice can gang a glee, and I place all my confidence in the help that comes from that unseen Hand that directs all who in humility seek guidance on the solution of life's problems. The purpose of this letter is to ask all of you, especially the children, to pray to God through the Virgin Mother to guide us to a proper solution of every problem that may arise, so that when the church is built its physical perfection and fitness will be an indication of God's approval and benediction.
Sincerely yours in Christ,
REV. PATRICK J. O'CONNOR.
ST. JAMES CHOIR
The Parish Choir has been receiving many favorable comments during the past few months. It is apparent that their training under Miss Carreras is progressing. Charles Heil rendered a solo "The Palms" on last Sunday which carried a wave of religious emotion through the church. The timbre of his voice lends itself to religious expression and its strength and fullness harmonizes with the mellow tones of the organ.
Recently a parishioner was heard to remark, "I'm going to change from the 6 to the 10 o'clock mass, that choir makes me more devotional."
The Mass on Easter Sunday, however, has been set with the purpose of giving an opportunity to the early church goers of hearing the choir.
The following program will be rendered at the Solemn High Mass at 6 A. M.
The following are the members: Chas. Heil, John Lawrence, Chas. Brady, Ben Kelly, James Kelly, David F. Collins, John Kelly. Wm. Koncen, Louis Riegel, Joe Masterson, Ed Hussman, Geo. Wiber.
Miss Carreras expects additional members after Easter and is contemplating arranging for a mixed choir.
BAPTISMS IN MARCH
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On March 6th, Miss Agnes Glass, 6718 Mitchell Ave. and Jack Espen, were married at St. James Church. Samuel Glass and Miss Irma McHenry were the official witnesses.
Miss Jane Sache, 6311 Famous Ave., is a patient at St. Mary's Hospital. ` ,
Mrs. Anthony Guriche, 6316a Victoria Ave., is at St. Mary's. -
Mrs. Anna Dwyer, 1032 Tamm Ave., has been a patient in St. Anthony's Hospital during the past two weeks. Her condition is much improved.
Mr. William Angenendt, 1120 Graham St., has grieved very much since the death of his wife; who was buried from St. James Church, March 3rd. R. I. P.
Mrs. Sarah Donnelly, 6922 Magnolia Ave., is ill in St. Mary's Infirmary.
PARISH MEETING
Selecting an Architect
Price of the new church; eliminating a general contractor; a beautiful stone church erected by the University City Methodists at a cost of $150,000; a saving of $20,000.
Father O'Connor was called upon at the Parish Meeting to report on the selection of an architect for the proposed church. He said that he had drawn up under proper direction a number of requirements which would make it possible for architects to enter a contest. So far it was not possible to submit the complete requirements to the architects because there were questions which were not finally decided. Among those he mentioned the cost of the church, the number of rooms required for a convent and rectory. After Easter he hoped to have more time to decide on the convent and rectory and at this meeting he would ask the parishioners to come to a conclusion, as to what the church should cost.
Mr. O'Gorman was in a smiling mood and enlivened the meeting by his humor and enthusiasm. He was sanguine about the future and apparently satisfied with the present. The times were never better, he said, everyone is working, building has taken another start, public works are in full swing, real estate is booming, everyone will be able, to give more to the church, myself will give double what I gave last year; he then paused as a man might who has a scruple of conscience, and added, not that I gave a whole lot last year. I intended making a big contribution, but I had among my assets a lot of frozen stock, which are now thawing out, and I paid little or nothing till the end of the year. I sold five or six lots recently in the Cody & O'Gorman Subdivision; Mr. Pahl is already building upon them; I will give more this year to the church than, I have ever given. I say, "Let us build a real Church."
Mr. O'Gorman was energetically applauded and the spirit of the meeting inclined most of those present to vote for a costly church and a big debt, but Father O'Connor evidently was not carried away by the prevailing sentiment. “We must be practical," he said, "the specifications that we are to submit to the architects make it imperative that we decide tonight the exact amount that we intend to expend on a church building. If we decide on a certain sum and later find we cannot afford it, the plans and blue prints must be all changed and this would entail unnecessary loss of time and money."
Opposed To A Big Debt
Father O'Connor continued, "I am opposed to a big debt and I have made up my mind not to let you borrow more than $50,000, this is as much as the parish can safely carry. You know the majority of the parishioners are wage earners and it is quite possible conditions may change in the next five years; if a number of wage earners were out of work I could not stand up at the altar and ask them for money which they had not.
"I suggest distributing this loan over a period of ten years. If prosperity continues, we can set aside a sum each year for a convent and rectory, and when we have sufficient funds to justify the erection of a convent, we can make another loan and place a separate mortgage on the new building."
Cost of a New Church
Mr. Heil: "How much would that leave us for a new church?"
Father O'Connor: "It is a matter of addition. We had on hand at the end of 1925, $60,000; add to that the ordinary income for this year which I presume will be $15,000, and the income of 1927, less the sum taken in as interest of $3,000 on our investments, about $12,000, and the total including the amount borrowed shall be about $137,000. As far as I can see this must be the cost of a new church."
Mr. Heil: "Do you mean to include in this the cost of furnishings?"
Father O'Connor: "Yes, everything complete."
Mr. Heil: "What do you suppose the furnishings including an organ would cost?"
Father O'Connor: "Roughly I would say about $30,000.'"
Mr. Heil: "That leaves only $107,000 for construction. You will never get a stone church that will be large enough for that amount.
Mr. Coad: "The parishioners want a stone church and will not be satisfied with anything else. Could we not make it $150,000?"
Father O’Connor: "Where is the money to come from?"
Mr. Coad: "From the parishioners."
Father O'Connor: "It is up to the parish to decide. All that I know is there will be $137, 000 to expend and unless I have sufficient guarantee from the parishioners that more funds are forthcoming this will be the sum I shall submit to the architects and you-will have to be satisfied with whatever kind of a church can be erected for that amount"
Mr. Crotty: "I think the church should cost not less than $150,000."
Mr. Martin Coad: "I make a motion that we build a $150,000 church."
Mrs. LaGarce seconded the motion.
Mr. Coad: "By scratching we should be able to raise $13,000."
Mr. Kletzker : "I believe a matter of $10,000 can be taken care of inside of two years. I consider $150,000 a very conservative estimate." Motion carried.
Mr. Houlihan: "Will $150,000 include everything?"
Mr. Jim Coad: "Father O'Connor, what would an Altar, Organ and Stations cost?"
Father O'Connor: "The cost of the altar would be in proportion to the cost of the church, usually a permanent altar costs about 6 per cent of the price of the building."
Mr. Coad: "That means an altar for $150,000 church would cost about $9,000?"
Father O'Connor: "Yes."
Mr. Coad. "And what would the organ and stations cost?"
Father O'Connor: "An organ would cost about $10,000, pews about $5,000 and