I am writing this on Tuesday, August 21. Thirteen years ago today our parish, then called Blessed John XXIII, celebrated its first Sunday Mass. This took place at Perrysburg High School

            The day before I was in Delphos for my niece’s wedding. Afraid of falling asleep driving back that evening, I had a couple of cups of coffee before leaving. Then once I got to bed that night I was wide awake and slept little before that first Mass. Excitement probably also played a role in my not sleeping.

            To my delight, some 250 to 300 persons were present for Mass. I know some came just to support us, including various friends and family members from elsewhere. Three Toledo television stations showed up for coverage.

            We had borrowed a sound system which we managed to get set up minutes before Mass. The various musicians had not had a chance to even meet each other, but they were skilled and were able to practice before Mass. And thanks to lots of help, we had bulletins, song books (the first and last time our parish ever used song books for Sunday Mass), and cookies and coffee after Mass.

            I look back at that experience with humility, knowing full well that God was with us and helping us begin this great experiment. And God continues to bless and guide us. Thank you, Lord.

“Unless the LORD build the house, they labor in vain who build.

Unless the LORD guard the city, in vain does the guard keep watch.”

Psalm 127:1