LIVING WINTER/ SPRING 2024
SPLENDID SLOPES
GALION NEUROLOGIST SHARES HER LOVE OF FAITH, FAMILY & SKIING
GORGEOUSGLASS
WINDOW CREATIONS MAKES MASTERPIECES
HOLYHOUSE
TIFFIN HOUSE HAS A FAITH LEGACY A P U B L I C AT I O N O F T H E D I O C E S E O F T O L E D O
ABOUT MY PRACTICE I focus my practice in the areas of estate and wealth preservation planning, taxation, estate and trust administration, and residential and commercial real estate transactions. I work with individuals and families to address both simple and complex estate planning, business succession planning, and tax planning objectives. I also have significant experience in the preparation of personal income tax, personal gift tax, fiduciary income tax, and Federal estate tax returns.
ABOUT MY MISSION I believe that estate planning is more than just wills or trusts; it is an act of love taken by those who care deeply about their families and desire to leave a lasting legacy in the world. My mission is to help families regain their peace of mind by providing protection in times of prosperity, security in times of uncertainty, and comfort in times of crisis. Understanding that no two families are alike, I take the time to get to know my clients so that I can provide customized advice to accomplish their specific goals and objectives. Also, seeing my role with my clients as both advisor and educator, I empower my clients to leave my office understanding all of the options so they can forge their path with confidence. I got into the practice of law because helping people is my passion. And I strongly believe that I can help you.
The Law Offices of LaValley, LaValley, Todak and Schaefer 5800 Monroe Street, Building F Sylvania, Ohio 43560
Charles D. Rittenhouse, Attorney
(419) 882-0081 cdr@lavalley-law.com charlesrittenhouse.com
Graceful
LIVING
1 9 3 3 S P I E L B U S C H AV E . TO LE D O, O H 4 3 6 0 4 (419) 244-6711
P U B L I S H E R
MOST REV. DANIEL E. THOMAS B i s h o p , D i o c e s e o f To l e d o KELLY DONAGHY S e n i o r D i r e c t o r, C o m m u n i c a t i o n s KEITH TARJANYI M a n a g e r, C r e a t i v e S e r v i c e s ANNIE LUST Social Media & Communications Manager NATHAN VOLKER Sales & Production Specialist ELISHA VALLADARES-CORMIER Contributing Writer SCOTT W. GRAU Contributing Photographer Graceful Living is a special interest magazine of the Diocese of Toledo, in particular for our senior parishioners. Stories of the lives of Catholic seniors contributing their talents to our parish communities are highlighted. If you are interested in sponsorship, donations or advertising, please contact the Communications Department of the Diocese of Toledo: 419-214-4876
BISHOP DANIEL E. THOMAS Rev. Msgr. William J. Kubacki Vicar General & Moderator of the Curia Rev. Michael G. Dandurand Senior Director/Vicar for Clergy Clergy, Consecrated Life & Vocations Sr. Rose Marie Timmer, RSM Chancellor Mr. Matthew J. Daniels Senior Director, Catholic Education Ms. Kelly M. Donaghy Senior Director, Communications
C
F R O M
T H E
B I S H O P
C
Dear Friends in Christ, Greetings in the Lord for this New Year of grace, 2024! I can’t tell you how many people mention a story they read in Graceful Living as I travel throughout our 19 counties. Thank you for your continued support of the magazine, and I hope you enjoy our latest Winter/Spring 2024 issue! In this edition of the magazine, we feature Dr. Melany Raedy Novack as our cover story subject. She makes the Church, particularly St. Joseph in Galion, the center of her life while also enjoying some time on the ski slopes in Mansfield. It's my pleasure to introduce you to Fr. George Wenzinger, who was named The Diocese of Toledo’s Minister to Priests, a position that came out of our strategic plan to help care for our active and retired priests. In a can you believe this! story, we feature a small house in Tiffin that has been home to three different priests from three different families! Truly remarkable. I am also excited to share the amazing work of Window Creations and how they use both traditional techniques and new technology to create or restore stained glass windows in our churches, parishes and beyond. We are also featuring a story on intentional planning, a process in which parishes realistically look at both parish and diocesan data, resources and personnel to plan for the future in order to secure vibrant Catholic communities for decades to come. Please enjoy these stories and the many other fun tidbits that are in this issue. With every good wish and prayer for you and yours, I am Sincerely yours in Christ Jesus, Most Reverend Daniel E. Thomas Bishop of Toledo
Mr. Bret V. Huntebrinker Senior Director, Discipleship & Family LIfe Mr. Philip R. Renda CFO, Diocese of Toledo COO, Management Corporation Mr. Rodney O. Schuster Executive Director, Catholic Social Services
GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 3
Making Your Living Christ Pledge Payment Is Now Easier Than Ever! TO MAKE YOUR SECURE PAYMENT:
livingchristcampaign.org/pledgefulfillment OR SCAN THIS CODE TO GET STARTED: Thank you for your extraordinary participation in this historic campaign!
4 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
T A B L E
O F
C O N T E N T S
WINTER/SPRING 2024
8
14 22
36
IN THIS ISSUE SKIING WITH SOUL: Galion neurologist Melany Raedy Novack beats the winter blues at Mansfield's Snow Trails . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8
ENCOURAGING VOCATIONS: Six ways to encourage your children and grandchildren to pursue religious vocations . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20
ELEVATING THE TYPICAL: Check out these tips to take your next grilled cheese sandwich to the next level .. . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30
WINTER ACTIVITIES: Check out these exciting winter activities that you might not ordinarily consider . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 13
THE CUTTING EDGE: The unique journey of a Northwest Ohio family owned stained glass business . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22
HOLY HOUSE: A Tiffin house has been home to three priests each from different families since it was built in 1940 . . . . . . . . . . 32
INTENTIONAL PLANNING: A couple shares their experience of their church and the 'intentional planning' process . .. . . . . . . . . . 14
WEEKEND GETAWAY: Aside from university life, Bowling Green offers many lively options for various age groups. . . . . . . 28
PRIEST Q&A: Fr. George Wenzinger, the diocese's minister to priests, shares his thoughts on a range of topics. . . . . . . . . . . . . . 36
ON THE COVER: Galion neurologist Melany Raedy Novack on the slopes at Mansfield's Snow Trails ski resort. Photo by Scott W. Grau/Special to the Diocese of Toledo
GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 5
WIT H B I S H O P T H O M A S
St. Mary Leipsic celebrates 150th anniversary Bishop Daniel E. Thomas presided in September over the 150th anniversary of St. Mary, Parish in Leipsic. The parish is led by Fr. Randy Giesige. Parishioners and priests alike enjoyed a dinner celebrating the historic occasion following Mass.
St Barbara Cloverdale 125th anniversary
6 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
Immaculate Conception Ottoville 175th anniversary
Visitation Sisters celebrity chefs night
WELCOME
TO THE FAMILY! 419-874-4331 PerrysburgAutomall.com 26875 N. Dixie Hwy, Perrysburg, OH
GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 7
gliding
BY ANNIE LUST
PHOTO BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO
grace
Galion Neurologist Melany Raedy Novack spends her free time during the winter months on the slopes at Mansfield's Snow Trails Ski Resort
8 W S UI NM TMEERR/ /SFPARLI LN G2 022032 4| D| I DO ICOECSEES OE FO TF OTLOELDEOD O| G| RGARCAECF EUFLU L I LV II VN IGN GM AMGAAGZAI ZN IEN E
I was running late for my appointment to meet Dr. Melany Raedy (her maiden and professional name) Novack. I was not headed to her office for a medical consultation SUBMITTED PHO TO The Novacks have spent many enjoy but instead to another place able days at ski outings over the years. she spends time: Snow Trails, the ski resort in Mansfield. It was winter in Ohio, but the roads I was traveling were free from snow. Everything — the sky, the road and the remnants of snow — was a bit gray. I pulled into the parking lot and hopped out, barely looking up as I rushed toward the agreed-upon meeting spot. I skidded to a stop and finally looked around. I was no longer in Ohio — at least judging by my surroundings. It didn’t even look like 2023! I seemed to be in a small village in the Alps in the 1960s. There’s an undeniable charm to Snow Trails resort. From the wood detailing on the Swiss-inspired buildings to the blanket of pure white snow covering the hills, it looks like a scene in a snow globe. When I meet up with Melany, she’s beaming — she loves it here. “I call [Snow Trails] the gem of Mansfield,” she exclaims.
M
elany Novack followed in her father’s footsteps. Go to medical school and become a doctor? Check. Move to the Midwest to raise your family? Check. Make skiing the family’s favorite pastime? Check. Make Catholicism the center of your life? Check. “Almost everyone in Michigan went north to go skiing on the weekends,” Melany explained. Her family was no exception. Her father was from New York, and as skiing boomed in popularity post World War II, he fell in love with the alpine sport. When he settled in Saginaw, Mich., with his wife and children, skiing became a family event. He taught them all to ski. Melany, who was only three years old when her dad taught her to ski for the first time, treasures the memories of G RGARCAECF EUFLU L I LV II VN IGN GM AMGAAGZAI ZN IEN |E D| I DO ICOECSEES OE FO TF OTLOELDEOD O| |W ISNUTME M R /ESRP/ RF AI NL GL 2 0 2 43 9
PHOTO ABOVE BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO
her family on the ski slopes together. Beyond their weekend getaways, her dad planned vacations around skiing. “He would take a week off, and we would go to Crystal Mountain, which is near Michigan's northwest coast, for Christmas. It was so beautiful,” Melany recalled. Melany kept up the skiing habit in college, where she joined a team “for fun, not for racing,” she clarified. After college, her life became hectic. She was in medical school, followed by her residency, each in different parts of the United States. She simply didn’t have time to ski. She did find the time for Steve, who was in his own residency. Melany and Steve both became doctors — neurology is her specialty — and were married. A hospital recruiter brought Melany and Steve to Galion. “She showed us all the best parts of the area. I can’t remember if she showed us Snow Trails, but she definitely showed us St. Joe’s [Parish in Galion],” Melany said. They were convinced. After spending their 20s moving from state to state, they were ready to settle in Ohio. In 1991, they moved to Galion and began working at the local hospital.
It was the ideal place to raise their family. By 1998, the family grew to include children Elizabeth, Stephen, Sarah, Michael, Catherine, Maddy and Hannah, living in a farmhouse. They attended St. Joseph Parish and sent their children to St. Joseph School. It was one of the selling points for the area. “I loved St. Joseph. It was a place you could go in and be a part of,” she explained. Over the years, Steve and Melany have been a part of many parish and school activities. Melany volunteered to teach French at the school in her spare time for years and organized an afterschool place for teens. Steve traveled to Belize on Mission trips with the late Fr. Bob Haas. The church and school became central to the Novacks’ lives. Snow Trails became another cherished place for
10 W S UI NM TMEERR/ /SFPARLI LN G2 022032 4| D| I DO ICOECSEES OE FO TF OTLOELDEOD O| G| RGARCAECF EUFLU L I LV II VN IGN GM AMGAAGZAI ZN IEN E
SUBMIT TED PHOTO
Galion St. Joseph parishioner Melany Raedy Novack (above) loves to spend the cold winter months on the slopes with family and friends. "Skiing is such a great family activity," Melany says. Since her father taught her to ski at three years old, Melany (right) has loved being on the slopes. Ski holidays were a staple of Melany’s childhood. She is pictured here on one trip.
Instead of being cooped up in the winters, the Novack family spent the coldest months of the year bundled up in warm gear, gliding down snowy runs, and then warming up in the cozy lodge.
GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 11
Melany (above) waves from one of the ski lifts at Snow Trails Resort in Mansfield. She has been visiting for years with her family.
the family. With fond memories of her childhood on the slopes, Melany had her children take lessons, too. Steve, a Georgia native, did not learn to ski until adulthood, but he picked it up enthusiastically. Instead of being cooped up in the winters, the Novack family spent the coldest months of the year bundled up in warm gear, gliding down snowy runs, and then warming up in the cozy lodge. “Skiing is such a great family activity,” Melany said. As the children grew, their love of the ski slopes has not waned. Like her father before her, Melany planned vacations where the family could ski. “We took vacations to Michigan when the kids were younger, or now that they’re older, we meet somewhere for a ski vacation,” she shared. Even with their children now grown, Steve and Melany stay busy. They both still practice medicine, which makes for busy days. In the evenings, they spend time doing some of their
favorite activities. In the winter, they might head to Snow Trails after work for a few runs on the snow-covered slopes or to enjoy the lodge’s rustic ambiance and a meal. Fridays are Melany’s favorite, though. Each week, they join a group of friends at a home for a rosary social club. On those evenings, the couples pray the rosary, have lively discussions and enjoy food and drink. More than half a century since those fatherdaughter ski lessons, it’s evident that Melany learned much more than how to ski from her father.
12 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
PHOTO BY ALAMY PHOTO SERVICE
PHOTO BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO
St. John Paul II was an avid skier beginning in his youth until more than a decade into his papacy. “We can pray perfectly when we are out in the mountains or on a lake and we feel at one with nature. Nature speaks for us or rather speaks to us. We pray perfectly,” said St. John Paul II.
winter
activities
Winter is a great time to explore different types of activities that you might not ordinarily think of. Consider these activities this winter.
CURLING Despite being an Olympic sport, curling is a lesser-known winter activity. Curling utilizes two four-person teams where the object is to glide large stones down a sheet of ice and get them as close to the center of a circle as possible. There are several curling rinks within a two-to-three-hour drive which offer classes for beginners. One of those clubs is the Bowling Green Curling Club. For more information: www.bgcurlingclub.com. TOBOGGAN CHUTES: If racing down steep, ice-covered chutes on sleds sounds like fun, then this activity might be the ticket. The Cleveland Metroparks manages the Chalet in Millstream Run Reservation in Strongsville. The twin, 700-foot chutes are open from late November through mid-February. If you plan to go, you will want to check out their site for reservation information: Clevelandmetroparks.com. Gloves are required of all toboggan participants. INDOOR WATERPARK: If you enjoy swimming during the winter then there is nothing quite like spending the day at an indoor water park. Several indoor water parks within an hour or two drive are attached to hotels and feature heated amenities. Kalahari, Great Wolf Lodge and Comfort Inn Splash Harbor indoor water parks offer great ways to add some extra fun to your winter plans. Before making your reservation to visit an indoor water park, be sure to call ahead and verify operating hours. HORSEBACK RIDING Some farms offer winter horse riding lessons and guided trail tours. A winter horseback trail-riding trip through farmland and meadows can be a great opportunity to take in the stillness of nature's impact on the outdoors.
GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 13
The interior of All Saints in New Riegel has inherited elements from many of the former parishes in the area. Each former parish is represented by a mounted statue. There are also angels surrounding the Tabernacle, candle sticks and a stained-glass window depicting the rich history of the area. PHOTO BY SCOTT W. GRAU SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO
14 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
for a lanningfuture pbright BY ANNIE LUST
One couple shares their experience of their parish going through the 'intentional planning' process GROWING UP IN BASCOM
Bascom is part of Bob Swartzmiller’s identity. He was raised in the small community on the western side of Seneca County. There are no stoplights in Bascom. It’s the kind of place where you know your neighbors. In Bob’s case, he was related to many of them. “I couldn’t date anyone from Bascom,” Bob joked. He met Alicia at the nearby vocational school, and they married. After his military service, Bob and Alicia settled in Bascom to raise their family. Both lifelong Catholics, it was apparent that St. Patrick, less than half a mile from their home, would be their parish. For decades, it was. Their three sons received First Holy Communion there. On Sunday mornings, they sat in the familiar pews, often on the side with the St. Patrick statue looking down onto them. The small brick church was home, like it had been to generations before them.
DIFFICULT DECISIONS
In the early 2000s, while Bob and Alicia were busy raising three young boys, the parishes of western Seneca County were undertaking a momentous task of their own. A decade prior, then-Toledo Bishop James R. Hoffman, who served from 1981-2003, recognized the trend of lower
Mass attendance and fewer seminarians and began looking toward the future. The six rural parishes in the area: St. Andrew in Liberty, St. Boniface in New Riegel, St. James in Kansas, St. Nicholas in Frenchtown, St. Patrick in Bascom and Sts. Peter & Paul in Alvada — were among the first to grapple with these difficult realities. In 2005, three of those parishes (St. Boniface, St. Nicholas and Sts. Peter & Paul) were merged to create All Saints Parish. St. James closed, as well. In 2010, St. Patrick and St. Andrew began sharing a pastor with All Saints Parish. In 2018, St. Patrick and St. Andrew closed. The six former parishes became one parish. For many, the process was understandably heartbreaking. Each church had a history, an identity and a group of parishioners who were emotionally and spiritually attached to the church. While many made the transition to becoming members of the newly formed All Saints Parish, not everyone did. In some cases, the heartbreak or anger was overwhelming. Some decided to attend other parishes. Some left altogether. Bob and Alicia can’t recall every detail of the transition of St. Patrick in Bascom, one of the last churches in the area to close. “Many,
GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 15
Give the Gift of Love BY PROVIDING YOUR FAMILY WITH PEACE OF MIND.
SCAN FOR MORE INFO
many meetings” stand out the most in their memory. Despite their apprehension with the changes, they felt heard throughout the process. “Looking back, they asked our opinion and listened to everyone,” Alicia said. In the moment, though, it was very painful and emotional. Still, they were very grateful for a compassionate leader. “We were lucky to have someone like Fr. Tim [Kummerer] to guide us through the process. He has a gift for listening,” Alicia continued.
PAINFUL GOODBYE
Catholic Funeral & Cemetery Services (CFCS) of the Diocese of Toledo is a charitable organization founded in faith and dedicated to providing education, support, and professional services.
Benefits of Planning in Advance: Interest-free payment plans Ensure your Cemetery wishes are met Avoid emotional overspending Reserve an inspiring location for you and your family at one of our Catholic Cemeteries Burial and Cremation services are guaranteed at today’s prices Resurrection Cemetery (419) 531-5747 Calvary Cemetery (419) 536-3751 Mt. Carmel Cemetery Call Calvary or Resurrection
Start planning today:
Cemetery | Cremation Niches | Family Estates cfcstoledo.org
While St. Patrick Parish closed in 2018, the church was still used for a weekend Mass until 2020, so Bob and Alicia continued attending Mass at St. Patrick. Despite the proximity (only 7.8 miles) and activities at All Saints, Bob and Alicia did not fully embrace the change at first. “It’s unbelievable the things that were taking place so close to us that we didn’t even know about because we focused just on our own local church,” Bob said. Then, in March 2020, Fr. Tim Kummerer announced there would no longer be Masses at St. Patrick — it was closing completely. “I remember sitting there,” Alicia said, “I had to fight back tears.” For both Bob and Alicia, it was painful to say goodbye. There was sadness and anger. The attachment of parishioners to their churches is an intimate, familial and sacramental reality. Despite the heartbreak of losing the church building they loved, Bob and Alicia decided to fully embrace All Saints Parish. “I realized I was angry over a building,” Bob said. It was not immediate, but they found a way to let go. “Wherever pain is, grace abounds more,” Bob said.
SAYING YES
Alicia and Bob resolved to jump into life as members of All Saints Parish. “We started taking the opportunity to say yes … to projects, to invitations, to things I saw in the bulletin.” At St. Patrick, they knew most of the parishioners because of proximity. If they were going to build a true community at All Saints, they needed to work to accomplish that, so they volunteered as much as possible and accepted every invitation. And the invitations and opportunities were abundant. They were amazed at how much was happening at All Saints Parish. Before long, they were involved in Mass coordinating, festival committee, prayer shawl ministry, pastoral council and finance council, just to name a few. “We both recently did
16 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
Cursillo weekends," Alicia said. Cursillo weekends offer an intense opportunity for prayer, discussion and personal testimony on a range of topics. "They were incredible, and it’s something we never would have even heard about [until we began attending All Saints Parish],” she said. For Bob, one event stands out as an example of six former parishes truly becoming one — the 2023 All Saints Parish Festival. One of the largest parish events of the year, the festival is two days of delicious food and fun for the family. The setup is arduous for the group of volunteers. After days of work, everything came crashing down when a sudden, vicious storm rolled through. “It was carnage. We had 15 tents and three survived,” Bob said. The massive tents were blown around the campus with the metal poles twisted. As the storm passed, they surveyed the damage. And then something incredible happened — people from the nearby communities began showing up to help fix the damage and set up again. “We had 100 people there to help,” Bob said. “Father said it was a miracle. I don’t know if it was a miracle, but if you didn’t see God working, you weren’t paying attention,” Bob quipped. “To me, this tells the story of all of these parishes coming together as All Saints.”
A NEW HOME
In less than four years, Bob and Alicia’s lives have changed. It’s not only their involvement in exciting parish events. It’s not just the new friendships they’ve built. Their lives have changed. “The doors that have opened for us … I don’t even have the words to express how beautiful it’s been,” Alicia said. Bob added, “It didn’t come without a price, but the reward has been incredible.” In short, they’ve found a new home. Bob and Alicia drive 7.8 miles for Mass on Sundays, but they don’t mind. When they arrive at All Saints, they see friends — new and old. They pick up a bulletin and noted the faith-enrichment and community-building events they plan to attend. And inside the church, they see the familiar St. Patrick statue that used to reside in Bascom. It’s not the only piece of the former church that has been incorporated into All Saints. “All of the saints that were in the different churches are mounted on the walls; there’s a statue that represents each one of the six churches. And they don’t look out of place,” Alicia noted. “They look natural, as if they’ve been there forever.” It is truly a perfect fit. Their experience and witness of discipleship in Christ grew beyond focusing on buildings and structures to focus on the vibrant practice of living out their Catholic faith.
Intentional Planning Overview BY ANDREW REINHART
I
ntentional Planning in the Diocese of Toledo is the process of exploring new parish collaborations and clergy assignments to meet the spiritual needs of the people in our diocese now and going forward. This process studies demographic changes in the population of our diocese, the number of priests available for pastoral service, and the need for greater evangelization within our diocese. Once a possible change is identified, the process includes consultation with local clergy, pastoral councils and parish members to investigate what should best be done. The Intentional Planning process originated from priests’ and laity feedback that formed the diocesan strategic plan beginning in 2019 . Each of the 122 parishes in the Diocese of Toledo will feel the effects of change. Some of these changes are challenging such as twinning, merging or grouping; other changes have been less so, including having fewer priests or sharing a pastor with another parish. Often changes rightly result in a reduction of Mass times offered at the parish. As challenging as it may be, we do not get to choose whether to plan for the future. Over time planning has been a constant in the Diocese of Toledo and will continue. We do, however, get to choose if our planning is intentional. In the history of Catholicism in Northwest Ohio, there have been countless changes to our parishes: sharing pastors, a declining number of associate pastors, changing weekend Mass schedules and deacons or laity leading parishes. Throughout the history of Catholicism in Northwest Ohio, over 70 parishes have closed. Before the diocese’s founding in 1910, 11 parishes had already closed in the 19 counties that now comprise the diocese. In the early decades of the diocese, nine parishes closed during a period of growth in the Catholic Church in America. In more recent history, as the number of active Catholics has declined, there have been three rounds of planning in 1990, 2005 and the 2010s, and each of these seasons of planning included some parish closures. In more recent years, the diocese has not been pursuing parish closures, but if Mass attendance in
the diocese continues to decline, some parishes may be in danger of closing. One of the painful realities of our time is that many of our parishes are shrinking. The number of active priests in our diocese and the number of people worshiping in our churches have historically declined at about the same rate. These two realities are symptoms of something deeper. We are not facing a priest crisis or a Mass attendance crisis, we are facing a crisis of faith. To face this crisis of faith there is only one solution, evangelization. As our parishes do the arduous work of evangelizing, we need to continue to minister in all our communities even the ones with fewer people in the pews and fewer priests. There are two general approaches to confronting this reality, either priests minister to multiple parishes or parishes close. Both approaches have pros and cons. When parishes close, many people do not find another parish to attend and no longer practice their faith. However, the remaining parish communities are better resourced and more manageable for the pastor to lead. If a pastor leads multiple parishes, more members remain engaged, but the pastor faces increased leadership responsibilitites. The story about intentional planning starting on page 14 in this issue of Graceful Living is an example of parish challenges after a painful process of closures and mergers. In the next issue of Graceful Living, we will feature a “week in the life” article about a triparish grouping collaborating closely. As we shift toward a more evangelical and missionary approach as a Church, remember that we are all in this together with Christ. The most important things you can do in this season of the Church are to give your life more completely to Christ, support your pastor, and generously give yourself to the life of your parish. Please pray for the intentional planning process throughout the Diocese of Toledo. Pray also for vocations to the priesthood and be open to collaboration between parishes which provides for the pastoral needs of the faithful and looks to a bright future where evangelization becomes the norm and the Catholic faith is more vibrantly lived.
18 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
Unforgettable PILGR IM AGES
Maggie McDaniel and Teresa Grodi Members of the Diocese of Toledo, St. Rose of Lima Perrysburg
JUNE 3 – 13, 2024
OCTOBER 14 – 25, 2024
HOLY LAND PILGRIMAGE
ITALY PILGRIMAGE WITH FR. MATTHEW RADER
FR. JEFF WALKER & ANNUNCIATION RADIO’S DAVE VACHERESSE
Pray at the birth place of our Lord in Bethlehem . Ascend to Jerusalem to visit the Upper Room, pray in the Garden of Gethsemane . Breathe in the sea air at the sites around the Sea of Galilee . Visit the Mount of Beatitudes, Capharnaum, Cana, Nazareth, Mt . Tabor, and Caesarea Philippi . Holy Mass offered daily .
Join Fr . Matthew Rader on a pilgrimage of spiritual renewal to Rome, Assisi, Norcia and Lanciano/San Giovanni Rotondo, Italy . Pray at the tomb of Padre Pio . Visit the basilicas of Rome, enjoy a papal audience, walk in the footsteps of Sts . Francis and Clare in the hilltop town of Assisi, experience the peace and beauty of Monte Sant’Angelo, where St . Michael appeared in 490, and so much more!
CatholicFaithJourneys.com For information or to register, visit our website or contact Maggie McDaniel at 419.290.8782 or maggie@catholicfaithjourneys.com GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 19
your with children
6 WAYS TO PROMOTE VOCATIONS TO THE PRIESTHOOD AND CONSECRATED LIFE
and grandchildren
20 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
PRAY The most powerful and obvious way to encourage vocations is through prayer. Firstly, as Bishop Daniel E. Thomas asked, be sure to pray one Hail Mary each day for an increase in vocations to the priesthood in the Diocese of Toledo. It’s ideal to pray this together as a family and explain why the prayer is important. Secondly, pray aloud with your children (or grandchildren), asking God to help them discern their vocation. If you can go to Eucharistic Adoration together, that’s best.
WATCH
VISIT Providing opportunities for children to interact with priests and consecrated religious is a great way to help children recognize that God might be calling them to the same vocation! Take time to speak with
PHOTO COURTESY DOLLS FROM HEAVEN
A great introduction to the priesthood and religious life can be books and movies. Books like Molly McBride and the Purple Habit, The Monks’ Daily Bread and The Story of Saint John Paul II: A Boy Who Became Pope are picture books that children will love! For movies, many parishes offer FORMED to parishioners for free. Similar to Netflix, FORMED.org gives you access to Catholic movies, audiobooks and much more, including content for kids. Videos like Brother Francis, Hildegard’s Gifts and Littlest Saints are highquality and engaging.
your priest at parish gatherings or after Mass or invite him over to your home for a meal. Visit a convent of sisters. Look for events where priests or consecrated religious will be present. Find opportunities to build friendships with priests and consecrated religious persons so your children can see those vocations lived joyfully!
PLAY Use your imagination when promoting vocations to little ones! It can be as simple as playing make-believe as religious sisters using a blanket as a habit. If you have a talent for sewing, consider making an All Saints Day costume featuring a priest or consecrated religious saint. You can also encourage play by purchasing gifts like a toy Mass kit or a saint doll. You can find gifts like this in many places, such as Dolls From Heaven (dollsfromheaven.com), Shining Light Dolls (shininglightdolls.com) and Wee Believers (weebelievers.com).
TALK Simply talking about vocations is crucial. From the earliest years of your child’s life, talk about what a vocation is and the different vocations God may be calling them to.
GO Priesthood ordinations and vow professions are incredible, powerful celebrations. Take your family to join the celebration so they can witness it firsthand.
Reggie Bueher has made a career out of creating holy images. He founded Window Creations with the goal of making stunning stained glass. He quickly realized the majority of customers were churches. In the three decades since its founding, the Window Creations team has created countless images of Jesus, Mary and the saints. PHOTOS COURTESY WINDOW CREATIONS
22 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
THE CUTTINGEDGE THE INNOVATIVE JOURNEY OF A NORTHWEST OHIO FAMILY OWNED STAINED GLASS BUSINESS
BY ANNIE LUST
W
alking through the sprawling Window Creations building is a fascinating experience. On one side, tradition prevails. The hand-blown glass glitters in shades of emerald, plum and ruby when the sunlight streams through. Artists work meticulously using the techniques stained glass masters have used since the Middle Ages. For Window Creations, working on priceless pieces of stained glass art from hundreds of years ago is part of their day-to-day work in one part of the building. On the other side of the building, though, state-of-the-art technology looms large. With one foot in the past and one in the future, Window Creations produces breathtaking glass art no matter which technique they use.
Thirty plus years ago, even Reggie Bueher, who founded Window Creations LLC with his wife, Penny, could not have dreamed of the growth and innovation of their business. The stained glass window company had modest beginnings: “It started as a business, never a hobby,” Reggie continued, “but the goal was to just pay for our kids’ Christmas.” They accomplished that goal rather quickly. “The business kept doubling year after year,” he explained. While their start was in residential
work, churches began reaching out for restoration work almost immediately. Within three years of Window Creation’s founding, Reggie worked on a restoration project for St. Mary in Van Wert. It was something of a turning point for the company. “I have special memories of that, and so does my wife,” Reggie explains. It was also their first foray into working with churches, which became a staple of their business. “I would say 90percent — maybe even 95 percent — of the work we do is for churches,” he shared.
The stunning image of the Annunciation of the Blessed Virgin Mary (left), looks like traditional stained glass, but is actually a printed glass technique Window Creations developed. The technology enables them to print breathtaking images on windows, headstones and more. GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 23
PHOTOS COURTESY WINDOW CREATIONS
Stained glass restoration became their forte. They take on major restoration and repair projects. Sometimes, a window was damaged in a tornado, and other times, previous restoration needs to be redone. He never criticizes other restoration because stained glass restoration is difficult. “We dedicated ourselves to restoration,” Reggie said they became masters at matching and repairing. The process can be more arduous than creating an original piece. “Matching glass in color and texture that was produced a hundred years ago, is sometimes hard to find or duplicate” He explained, “It will take us two or three times longer than it did the original artist because we have to work at a slower pace.” The process of painting and then firing the glass, which changes the color, sometimes has to be repeated six to eight times. Then, of course, the paintwork must be duplicated. “You have to get into that artist’s head from 100 and some years ago and try to duplicate the way they painted it. Not just the color, but the way they painted it.” Essentially, it’s quite a challenge. While Reggie and his team are incredibly talented and successful in traditional stained glass methodology, it’s in his nature to innovate. Reggie came from a computer science background, and Window Creations made the jump to computers decades Bishop Daniel E. Thomas was before most competitors. given a tour of the Window Creations facilities during a visit in “Studios were passed the summer. down from generation to generation. Things were done the way dad did it, the way grandpa did it,” he explained. Because Reggie did not have familial roots in stained glass, he was constantly looking for a better way to get things done. “We were doing drawings on computers three decades ago,” he said. There are some drawbacks to traditional stained glass that Reggie identified and sought to improve upon. First, stained glass is expensive. “Saving churches money is very important for us,” Reggie explained. And the expense is really the time, not materials. “The glass itself is inexpensive comparatively — even if it’s hand-blown glass
As a full-service company, Window Creations employs not only artists but many skilled workers. A new wood frame is installed at Immaculate Conception church in Ottoville .
from Germany.” The time required — firing a piece of glass many times or painting and repainting — is the majority of the expense. “If I can save labor, I can save a church money,” he shared. With that mentality, Reggie noticed the everyday items we see with colors printed on glass — the lines on refrigerator glass and car windshields. He paired that technology with the beautiful designs Window Creations creates on computers. “Today, we can take a piece of clear glass and print all the colors on it. We can achieve the same effect [as a traditional stained glass window] with one painting, one firing and the paint is applied by machine.” The cost savings are not insignificant — sometimes, the difference for the church is hundreds of thousands of dollars. Unsurprisingly, many priests walk into Window Creations asking for traditional stained glass and walk out opting for the printed glass technology. The printed glass is no less beautiful. In some ways, it outshines traditional stained glass, in fact. One of the drawbacks to traditional stained glass is that while they are breathtaking from the inside of a church with the light shining through, they appear nearly black from the outside. “That’s the beauty of the printed glass. You can see them on the inside and outside equally well.” Reggie continued, “We can do things that are impossible with traditional stained glass.” That goes beyond illuminating windows on both sides. Because the
24 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
We put living into senior living. Dedicated to our healing ministry, CHI Living Communities offers many safe senior living options, including Independent Living, Assisted Living, Memory Care, Skilled Nursing and Rehab. And, with our on-site chapels with religious services, robust selection of planned activities, abundant green space, and many other amenities, your choice to move just got easier! Contact one of our area communities to learn more about all of our services and amenities or visit CHILivingCommunities.org. The Commons of Providence 5000 Providence Drive Sandusky, Ohio 45870 419.624.1171
Franciscan Care Center 4111 N. Holland Sylvania Rd. Toledo, Ohio 43623 419.882.6582
Providence Care Center 2025 Hayes Avenue Sandusky, Ohio 45870 419.627.2273
St. Clare Commons 12469 Five Point Road Perrysburg, Ohio 43551 419.931.0050
The Gardens of St. Francis 930 South Wynn Road Oregon, Ohio 43616 419.698.4331
artwork is designed on a computer, they can include incredible detail on a tiny piece. “That’s just impossible in stained glass,” Reggie said. Ever innovating, Reggie saw another application for beautiful glass artworks. With his children and wife, they established Crystal Creek Glass Inc. in 2008 as a sister company of Window Creations LLC. They got to work patenting their custom columbaria. Cemeteries purchase columbaria with niches for cremated remains. The technology offers incredible artwork — that can feature stained glass images on the endcaps, and the appearance of granite or marble on the face of the units similar to the ones that adorn the columbaria purchased by St. Joseph
PHOTOS COURTESY WINDOW CREATIONS
Window Creations specializes in restoration work. An artist cements and cleans the newly restored glass (above). The custom columbaria installed at St. Joseph Cemetery in Maumee feature images of Jesus, Mary and Joseph (right). An innovative glass printing technique saves time and money without sacrificing beauty, as seen in the window of an angel at St. John in Lima (below).
Parish Cemetery in Maumee. They also offer tempered glass headstones for individuals that provide rich color and high-definition photograph quality. There is, quite literally, no other place in the world to find these. While Reggie is always looking for new ways to innovate, he does not mince words about the real reason for Window Creations’ success: “It’s not because we’ve worked so hard or because we’re so smart; it’s the blessing of the Lord. Reggie gestures around the workshop, where windows from centuries ago share space with a massive cutting-edge printer, and CNC machines. “The Lord gives us insight, ideas, creative paths,” Reggie said, “and that’s why we grow.”
T R AV E L
C
WEEKEND GETAWAY BY ANNIE LUST
It’s hard to think of anything but the university when you hear the words Bowling Green, but you don’t want to overlook the lively city itself. At its founding in 1832, Bowling Green was part of a massive wetland called the Great Black Swamp. Initially, the city’s growth was slow because of the difficult marsh conditions, but the wetlands were drained in the 1850s, allowing a bustling town to grow. Today, BG offers something for everyone — from the foodie to the history buff. Events, parades and plenty of local attractions make this a delightful destination for a mini vacation.
BOWLING GREEN
C
EXPLORE There is so much variety in the fun things to do in Bowling Green. Snook’s Dream Cars is a must-see for car or history enthusiasts. It features a recreated 1940s-era Texaco gas station, a showroom of extensive automobile memorabilia and a car collection presented within period scenes ranging from a 1930s general store to a racetrack from the 1960s. Visit Carter Historic Farm, a Depression-era working farm and living history center, to experience rural agricultural life in the 1930s and 1940s. Bowling Green is a haven for winter sports, offering both Slater Family Ice Arena, where you can skate, play or watch hockey, and Black Swamp Curling Center, where anyone, young or old, can try their hand at curling. The university offers no shortage of exciting things to do, but one of the most interesting is the Bowling Green State University Planetarium. The 114-seat public science theater offers a 40-foot dome with video that can immerse you in the cosmos. The city hosts two nationally known events in warmer months: the National Tractor Pulling Championships in August and the Black Swamp Arts Festival in September.
PRAY St. Aloysius Parish has served the community since its founding in 1881. The original church, built by local farmers in the 1880s, became too small soon after Bowling Green State University was founded in 1910. In 1926, the current Spanish Gothic church was dedicated. Visit stalbg. org for Mass times and events. St. Thomas More, the parish serving Bowling Green State University, has roots stretching back much further than 1968 when it became a parish. A Catholic apostolate was present on BGSU’s campus as early as 1916. Encouraged by the St. Aloysius pastor, the Newman Club gathered for faith enrichment and eventually, St. Thomas More Parish was founded. Today, they proudly serve the students of Bowling Green, “Drawing in and sending out disciples with the heart of Jesus Christ.” Visit sttomsbg.org, for more information.
PHOTOS COURTESY CAMBRIA WOLFF
EAT & DRINK
A perfect morning in Bowling Green begins at Novel Blends. This charming coffee shop offers delicious drinks and baked goods in a warm and cozy atmosphere where patrons can linger while listening to music or reading. And lunch options are plentiful, but you will not regret trying the stuffed bread sticks at Campus Pollyeyes. If pizza is not what you want, try the french onion soup at Easy Street Cafe. For dinner, you cannot find better food and service than Sam B’s. The eclectic and ever-changing menu offers many delights. Visit Clay Pot Bistro for a mouth-watering chicken piccata or a creamy mushroom risotto.
SHOP
Unique and interesting stores are a staple of Bowling Green. Just take a look in the beloved Bowling Green shop, Ben’s. It began as an old-fashioned variety store in 1976 and evolved into several specialty stores under one roof, including crafts, toys and fudge. Rock ’em Sock ’em Retro not only sells video games and comics, but the store also has a coin-operated arcade! Book lovers should stop by Grounds for Thought, the charming shop where you can sip coffee and flip through your favorite book. For Keeps Gifts is the perfect place to purchase a unique gifts; it’s impossible to leave empty-handed. GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 29
ELEVATE YOUR
GRILLED CHEESE BY ANNIE LUST
GET CREATIVE WITH YOUR BREAD
You can use the sandwich bread you have on hand, but consider opting for something more interesting? Sourdough, baguettes, ciabatta, pumpernickel and rye each offer delicious bases for your sandwich. A rustic loaf of bread with a great crust adds a nice crunch that traditional grilled cheese lacks.
Is there any sandwich more satisfying than a grilled cheese during the winter (and especially in Lent!)? Take this comfort food to the next level by adding or changing a few ingredients. The options are endless whether you pair it with the classic tomato soup or make the sandwich itself the star.
ADD SOMETHING FROM YOUR PANTRY
The pantry is a hidden gem for taking your grilled cheese to the next level. Pesto will add a bright, herbaceous layer of flavor. Relish offers acidity to balance the creamy cheese. Even a sweet or spicy jam can make a tasty pairing. Try Gouda with prosciutto, spinach and raspberry jam
3 0 W I N T E R / SS PP RR II NN GG 22 00 2244 || DDI IOOCCEESSEE OOFF TTOOLLEEDDOO | | GGRRAACCE EF FU UL L L LI VI VI NI NG GMMA AG GA AZ IZNI NE E
SWAP YOUR BUTTER
Using mayonnaise instead of butter is popular because of the higher smoke point. Simply put, burning a grilled cheese sandwich is harder when you use mayonnaise! You can also add flavor to the outside of your bread by using whatever type of aioli you have on hand — garlic, dill or chipotle, for example.
$750
TAX CREDIT The Diocese of Toledo Scholarship Fund is a Scholarship Granting Organization (SGO) that collects funds to provide scholarships to students in grades K-12 to attend Catholic schools. Donors receive a tax credit on your State of Ohio tax liability of up to $750.00 for individuals or up to $1,500.00 for those filing jointly.
FIND SOMETHING FRESH
Fruits and vegetables taste delicious on a grilled cheese sandwich. You cannot go wrong with tomatoes, but almost any veggie you have on hand will work: peppers, onions, spinach, zucchini and mushrooms. The same is true for fruit! Apples are a safe option, but berries, peaches and pears all work, too.
GO FOR VARIETY
The essential ingredient is the cheese. Why keep it basic when there are so many incredible options? And you don’t need to stick with just one. Multiple cheese selections can add flavor and creaminess. No cheese is off limits, although you should consider that some cheese is more difficult to melt. Try Havarti, cheddar and pepperjack
We ask you to consider: would you like to give to a student to attend a Catholic school or send your money in the form of taxes to the State of Ohio? • A tax credit is different than a deduction. • A tax credit is money back in your pocket on taxes you already owe. • You can also designate which Catholic school you would like to donation to be directed!
It’s easy to donate, go to dotsgo.org and click the “Donate” button. You can also send a check to Diocese of Toledo Scholarship Fund:
1933 SPIELBUSCH AVE. | TOLEDO, OHIO, 43604 Following your donation being processed, you will receive donation receipt and instructions to file for a tax credit.
holy house
OF TIFFIN B Y E L I S H A VA L L A DA R E S - C O R M I E R
A small house in Tiffin has been home to three priests from three different families since it was built in 1940. The unique occurrence proves that fostering holy vocations requires both a healthy Catholic community and a strong domestic church.
T
o the ordinary passerby, Steve and Dena Schreiner’s home on Ella Street in Tiffin seems simple enough: three bedrooms, one bathroom, just over 1,100 square feet. There are close to two acres of land behind the house, a perfect spot to garden or for children to run around. All these observations hold true, but there’s even more than what meets the eye. Not only is Fr. Paul Schreiner, Steve and Dena’s only son, a priest for the Diocese of Toledo and pastor of St. Mary Parish in Vermilion, but he is the third priest over time to come from that same home. Fr. Eugene Miller, who was born in 1928 and died in 2012, grew up in the home and was ordained a priest for the Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity in 1955, serving in several posts throughout the world. Additionally, Fr. Kenneth Alt, whose family sold the home to the Schreiners in 1979, was ordained a priest for the Missionaries of the Precious Blood in 1978 and currently serves as parochial vicar for a group of parishes in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, which are northwest of Dayton. “Three priests coming from this little place … and it is a little place,” Dena said with a chuckle. “It’s a really neat story when you think about it.”
32 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
“My parents provided the most important thing: the faith and knowing we were loved and supported . . .” F R . PAU L S C H R E I N E R
SUBMITTED PHOTOS
At the time, the Schreiners only knew about Fr. Kenneth’s recent ordination, so continuing a legacy of producing priestly vocations wasn’t on their radar when they purchased the home just after getting married in 1979. They were both 21 years old at the time and were focused on finding a place they could make into a home to start their family. Dena had lived in Tiffin all her life and her parents lived just a few minutes down the road from the Ella Street house. When they laid eyes on the house, they knew it was the perfect place to raise their kids. The Schreiners raised four children in the home — Marie, Paul, Renee and Mary — and the space was quickly transformed to accommodate the family’s changing needs. Dena homeschooled the children, so the kitchen table doubled as a massive desk for schoolwork during the day. The living room was a perfect place to both read a book and pray a nightly family rosary. With two kids to a room, however, romping around in the spacious backyard became a staple for sanity, Fr. Paul said. “It’s hard to fathom how the other families, who had more children, got by with the small amount of space,” he said, laughing. “But we shared a lot of love, making the most of what we had.” At some point during the family’s early years, Dena learned of Fr. Eugene’s connection to the house through one of the priest’s sisters, Joanne Brickner, who still lived in Tiffin. Eventually, Fr. Eugene returned for a surprise visit to see his old stomping grounds. “He told us stories about growing up here,” Dena said. In his high school years, Paul began discerning the priesthood in earnest, but he said that he didn’t feel any extra pressure knowing about the two priests who grew up in the house before him. Rather, he said it was the domestic church his parents cultivated and the Catholic community in Tiffin that stoked the fire of his vocation. “My parents provided the most important thing: the faith and knowing we were loved and supported no matter what the Lord was calling us to,” Fr. Paul said. “And there were so many priestly and religious vocations coming from the Tiffin area who had a fervor to serve their people, it was a testimony of the faith.” A newspaper clipping of Fr. Ken Alt, the second priest to grow up in the house, during one of his return visits to Tiffin (top). Steve and Dena Schreiner purchased the house in 1979 (top left). A recent photo of the house (bottom left). The house was built in 1940 (center). The Schreiner family while Fr. Paul Schreiner was a child (right).
GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 33
Plan a visit to the Sorrowful Mother Shrine ✓ Walk the wooded pathways dotted with over 40 Grottos ✓ Indoor chapel ✓ Outdoor Pieta Chapel ✓ Mass daily at 11:00 am Mon.-Sat. ✓ Confession 1 hour before each Mass ✓ Peaceful quiet place to rest the mind and body
Founded and served by the Missionaries of the Precious Blood for over 170 years
4106 State Route 269 Bellevue, Ohio 44811 419-483 3435 sorrowfulmothershrine.org
In fact, a particular impression was made on Paul by Fr. Richard Dunn, a retired priest residing at the St. Francis Home in Tiffin. “He displayed the faithful life of a priest — once a priest, always a priest. And I was able to receive his chalice after he passed. He left such a strong impression on me.” When Paul became a seminarian for the diocese in 2009, the ties to the house became even stronger. He met Fr. Kenneth Alt at a Serra Club event in Tiffin, where they discussed growing up in the same home. At another Serra Club event, Joanne Brickner told thenBishop Leonard P. Blair, who served the diocese from 2003 to 2013 when he left to become archbishop of Hartford, Conn., about the connection, to which he reportedly promised with a Fr. Paul Schreiner was the only boy in wink to buy the the family. He is with his three sisters, house in order Marie, Renee and Mary (above). to cultivate more vocations, should Paul be ordained. Fr. Paul was ordained a priest in 2015 by Bishop Daniel E. Thomas, achieving a trifecta of priests to come from a single humble home in Tiffin. And as much as some might want to say it is something intrinsic to the house — Fr. Paul jokes that “maybe it’s the well water or the Sandusky River down the road” leading to the unique pipeline of priests — the Schreiner family knows there’s no doubt that it speaks to the power of the Holy Spirit in the home and the parish. Really, they say, it’s a fulfillment of the diocesan prayer to “foster Holy Disciples, Holy Families and Holy Vocations, so as to become a more Holy Diocese of Toledo.” “I don’t think there’s anything special about the house,” said Steve, who recently celebrated 43 years of marriage with Dena. “These were all hard-working families who raised the families in the faith.” Fr. Paul agreed, saying, “My upbringing really shaped the roots of my faith through the domestic church in the home and in my home parish. You never know what God might use to call a young man or woman to serve him in the Church.”
If you enjoy reading about the lives of faith-filled seniors throughout the Diocese of Toledo…
Become a Friend of Graceful Living We are so grateful to the community of Catholic seniors we serve! You are the reason we strive to find the best stories of faith-filled seniors from all around the Diocese of Toledo. This year we are again facing very difficult circumstances, both globally and locally – so we want to make sure you don’t miss the good news that is also happening throughout the diocese. If you would like to see Graceful Living Magazine continue, we need your help and support now more than ever. The only way we can keep publishing this magazine is with generous donations from readers like you. We made the decision to keep the magazine free, so all seniors could receive it. If you love what you see in Graceful Living, please consider becoming a friend of the magazine today. You can mail the form below to make your donation – we thank you in advance! To subscribe to Graceful Living, email your name and mailing address to glmagazine@toledodiocese.org. If you want to reach the mailboxes of 42,000-plus people over the age of 55, consider advertising your business, organization or service in Graceful Living.
Graceful
To make a tax-deductible donation to Graceful Living, mail in the form below or donate on the web: gracefulmag.com
LIVING LIV ING
Mail to: Diocese of Toledo | 1933 Spielbusch Ave. Toledo, Ohio 43604. Or email to: glmagazine@toledodiocese.org
Enclosed is my tax-deductible gift made payable to: The Diocese of Toledo (419) 244-6711 I would like my contribution to be designated to: ❒ $10
❒ $25
❒ $50
❒ Graceful Living ❒ $100
Other $ ______________
Check enclosed ❒ (To make a donation using your credit card, visit gracefulmag.com) Donor Name(s): _______________________________________________________________________________ Address: _____________________________________________________________________________________ City: _____________________________________________ State: ___________ Zip: _____________________ Phone: ________________________
Email address: ______________________________________________
The Diocese of Toledo is a 501 (c)(3) tax-exempt organization.
(Rev. 12.23)
Q&A with Father George Wenzinger
PHOTO BY SCOTT W. GRAU/SPECIAL TO THE DIOCESE OF TOLEDO
In 2021, Fr. George Wenzinger was named the Diocese of Toledo’s Minister to Priests. The newly created role was a result of the Diocesan Strategic Plan and is now funded by the Living Christ campaign. A natural introvert with a gift for empathy, he was well-suited for the role of pastoral and spiritual care for our priests. He spent years as a pastor in the Diocese of Toledo from Defiance to Leipsic before his final assignment as pastor of Perrysburg's St. Rose Parish. He is also a trained spiritual director and papal-appointed Missionary of Mercy. Today, he works part-time as the Minister to Priests, caring for as many of the priests in the Diocese of Toledo as possible. We asked Fr. George to participate in a question and answer session.
36 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
Q. Fr. George, how did you feel when you were asked to be featured in Graceful Living? A. At first I felt resistant for various reasons, wondering if I had anything worthwhile to offer. Should I accept or "gracefully" decline? Q. Obviously you said yes! A. Yes, after praying about it for a while, my thoughts and feelings led me to the conclusion that my ‘yes’ to your invitation would be a way to serve the mission of the New Evangelization in some small way. Maybe I do have something to offer Graceful Living readers, which are largely composed of brothers and sisters in my age group and demographic. Q. What might be that something you have to offer for the sake of the mission of living a graceful life? A. Coincidentally, I just read a new book called: "The Fourth Quarter of Your Life: Embracing What Matters Most" by the popular Catholic author Matthew Kelly and coauthor Allen Hunt. Now, at age 71, I must accept the reality that I myself and many others are in, or very close to being in, the fourth quarter of life. How can we embrace what matters most with the time we have left? I was intrigued by the thoughts presented by the authors: "people don’t accidentally age gracefully, people don’t accidentally die peacefully, people do not accidentally leave behind legacies of hope, love and
encouragement. Successful fourth quarter living takes intentionality." Q. I think you are correct. It reminds me of the quote: “What lies behind us, and what lies before us, are tiny matters compared to what lies within us.” A. I am so grateful that God the Creator has given me the opportunity to have reached the seventh decade of life and that our bishop has allowed me to enter into senior status as a part-time minister to priests, a member of our diocesan clergy, consecrated life and vocations ministry team, and as a papalappointed Missionary of Mercy. Over the course of my life and ministry since June 10, 1978, I am grateful to have had the gift to learn about and practice the charism of spiritual direction/ accompaniment which can be defined in this way: One Christian helping another Christian pay attention to God’s personal communication, so that, one can respond to God’s personal communication, grow in intimacy with God and live out the consequences of that relationship. Q. That sounds so very interesting, like a "life in Christ as an intentional disciple" A. That is saying a lot, every person is unique with their
own sacred story. But who is there to help us pay attention and respond? Imagine what we can share together — an intentional life in Christ lived in the dynamic sacramental community of the Catholic Church over four quarters of life! What a witness we could be for the younger spiritual pilgrim brothers and sisters and for each other because the journey is not easy. As I try to live in the present moment as a hopeful courageous Christian man imperfect in many ways, I find my source for graceful living in this fourth quarter of life in these words of St. Paul to the Romans 5;1-5: "Therefore, since we have been justified by faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ, through whom we have gained access [by faith] to this grace in which we stand, and we boast in hope of the glory of God. Not only that, but we even boast of our afflictions, knowing that affliction produces endurance, and endurance, proven character, and proven character, hope, and hope does not disappoint, because the love of God has been poured out into our hearts through the Holy Spirit that has been given to us."
ABOUT MISSIONARIES OF MERCY
Missionaries of Mercy are priests who have been commissioned by the Holy Father to give particular emphasis to the duty shared by all priests to “hear confessions and preach on behalf of and promote the Sacrament of Reconciliation.” They are to be an intentional, visible expression of the mercy of God, which is at the heart of the priesthood and all of Catholic life. GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | WINTER/SPRING 2024 37
Whether you enjoy a coffee shop for the caffeine boost or the cozy atmosphere, the small towns in Northwest Ohio do not disappoint! Visit one of these locations for a great cup of coffee (or a variety of other drinks) and a fun place to gather. GALION
THREE BEAN COFFEE HOUSE
There’s always something new on the menu at Three Bean Coffee House in Galion. The family run business uses a three bean espresso blend in its lattes, but their name also refers to the owners’ three children. Some of the most popular drinks are named after them, like Ru Ru’s Red Velvet! We recommend the Cookie Butter Chai Latte and turkey bacon brie sandwich. FOSTORIA
JAVA’S ENCHANTED BEAN
BY ANNIE LUST
Here are some fun coffee shops to check out if you are in the area or don't mind a drive
Local products and ingredients are a hallmark of Java’s Enchanted Bean in Fostoria. From the coffee beans roasted in Seneca County, hand-dipped ice cream from Hancock County and fruit or cream pies made in Wood County to their delicious cookies, you will leave with something delectable. The beautifully renovated interior will make you want to stay awhile. We recommend the Dalgona coffee and Alice’s Ham Panini on Focaccia. ARCHBOLD, DEFIANCE
CABIN FEVER COFFEE
Cabin Fever Coffee is so good you’ll find it in multiple places. There are two locations in Defiance, with the newest branch in Archbold. At each site, you’ll find a warmly lit, lodge-styled coffee shop that offers cozy corners for conversation, single tables for remote computer work, couches for reading
38 WINTER/SPRING 2024 | DIOCESE OF TOLEDO | GRACEFUL LIVING MAGAZINE
books and tables with moveable chairs for large group studies and hanging out. We recommend the Fuzzy Moose Latte. NORWALK
SHERI’S COFFEE HOUSE
Just off Main Street in Norwalk, you’ll find their quintessential, small-town coffee shop, Sheri’s Coffee House. There are plenty of seating options in this spacious shop. Order one of their hand-crafted specialty drinks and a delicious cookie, then find a window seat for a great view of downtown. We recommend the Maple City Latte. WHITEHOUSE
COPPER PRESS ROASTERY
One thing that sets Copper Press Roastery in Whitehouse apart is the housemade syrups. They make every drink on the menu exceptional! With a friendly staff and welcoming atmosphere, your first visit will not be your last. We recommend the Pecan Bourbon Latte. BLUFFTON
TWISTED WHISK CAFÉ
The biggest conundrum visitors will face at Twisted Whisk Café in Bluffton is which of their mouthwatering, madefrom-scratch pastries to select. Whether studying, meeting friends or having a business meeting, this comfortable space is the perfect place. We recommend the Baker’s Delight Latte and Main Street Melt.
Insist on Us by Name! Sincera Palliative Care and Hospice of Northwest Ohio When selecting a palliative care or hospice provider, it is important to ask questions to assure you are receiving the best care possible. How long have you been providing care? Hospice of Northwest Ohio was the area’s first hospice. Founded in 1981, we are the only local, independent, non-profit agency that dedicates all of its resources exclusively to hospice and palliative care. Sincera palliative care was started in 2008 to meet the pain and symptom management needs of patients with serious illness who are not on a hospice program. Where do you provide palliative care services? Sincera’s care can be provided right in your own home, assisted living or nursing facility. For those who prefer to make an appointment with their Sincera care team in an office, we have Outpatient Consultation Offices inside Hospice of Northwest Ohio’s Toledo Center and The Toledo Clinic Cancer Center in Maumee. How well do you manage pain and other symptoms? Our pain and symptom management expertise is unmatched in this region. We strive to manage pain within 48 hours of admission to our program. Do you have a freestanding inpatient center? Yes, we have two! Both designed to meet the unique needs of patients and their families at the end of life. Our Perrysburg and Toledo Centers provide beautiful, home-like environments for patients who require close medical monitoring, or whose conditions can no longer be managed at home. Do you provide bereavement services? Yes. Hospice of Northwest Ohio provides the area’s most comprehensive range of grief support services. These include counseling, support groups and special workshops, which are free and open to anyone in the community. What about patients who are unable to pay for services? Medicare, Medicaid and most commercial insurance plans will cover the cost of Hospice or Sincera. As a not-for-profit agency, we receive substantial support from a variety of community sources. We care for everyone who requests our services, regardless of their ability to pay or complexity of care. If you have questions, contact us anytime! sinceracare.org 419-931-3440
sincera
hospicenwo.org 419-661-4001
Catholic Radio for the Diocese of Toledo On Air and On Demand at annunciationradio.com and our mobile app.
WHERE TO LISTEN Weekdays 7-9 a.m.
Thursday 4:30 p.m.
ADDITIONAL LOCAL PROGRAMS
DAILY: • 3:00 p.m.: Live & Interactive Divine Mercy Chaplet with Dave & Eileen Vacheresse • 3:15 p.m.: The Daily Mass from Rosary Cathedral EACH WEEKDAY AT 4:00 P.M.: • MONDAY: The Virtuous Life with Pat Oedy-Murray • TUESDAY: Faith Alive with Rodney Schuster • WEDNESDAY: Faith with Reasons with Ron Finn & Shayne Stanfield • THURSDAY: Say Yes to Life with Peter Range • FRIDAY: Understanding Scripture with Fr. Dave Nuss TUESDAY EVENINGS AT 8:00 P.M.: • Ignite Radio Live with Greg & Stephanie Schlueter
WNOC 89.7 FM
in Bowling Green & Toledo
WHRQ 88.1 FM in Sandusky & Port Clinton
WFOT 89.5 FM in Lexington & Mansfield
WSHB 90.9 FM in Willard
WRRO 89.9 FM in Bryan
On Demand on the Annunciation Radio app and at annunciationradio.com
C H A N G E O F A D D R E S S : P O B O X 6 , H O L L A N D , O H I O 4 352 8 - 0 0 6 C H A N G E O F P H O N E N U M B E R : 419 - 8 6 8 -2 9 6 6
