[Congressional Record Volume 151, Number 92 (Monday, July 11, 2005)]
[Extensions of Remarks]
[Page E1447]
From the Congressional Record Online through the Government Publishing Office [www.gpo.gov]




 IN HONOR OF THE 100TH ANNIVERSARY OF ST. BARBARA ROMAN CATHOLIC CHURCH

                                 ______
                                 

                        HON. DENNIS J. KUCINICH

                                of ohio

                    in the house of representatives

                         Monday, July 11, 2005

  Mr. KUCINICH. Mr. Speaker, I rise today in honor and recognition of 
the parish community of St. Barbara Roman Catholic Church, as members 
and leaders celebrate 100 years of faith and hope throughout 
Cleveland's southwest side. Throughout the past century, St. Barbara's 
Parish has served as a spiritual refuge, opening its doors to 
individuals and families in search of guidance and peace.
  The ministry of St. Barbara's began in 1905, serving Polish immigrant 
families who settled near Henninger and Denison Roads. Father Albert 
Migdalski was appointed as the first pastor. Pastor Migdalski and a 
small yet dedicated group of parishioners led the effort to construct 
St. Barbara's first permanent home. On Christmas Day in 1907, Pastor 
Migdalski celebrated the first mass at the new church building, 
constructed on the corner of Valley Road and Elston Avenue. A church 
hall and pastoral residence were also built on the grounds.
  Since that time, a number of pastors and parishioners have served as 
critical guides in the journey of the faithful at St. Barbara's Church. 
Over the years, the parish community of St. Barbara's has evolved and 
grown, and has also survived numerous struggles and hardships. Tragedy 
struck St. Barbara's in 1916, when a fire completely destroyed the 
church. Eventually, because of its committed members and leaders, St. 
Barbara's Church and School were built near West 15th and Denison 
Avenue. The school operated for more than 40 years, until financial 
struggles forced its closure in 1969.
  Mr. Speaker and Colleagues, please join me in honor and recognition 
of every past and current member and spiritual leader of St. Barbara's 
Church. Despite hardship and adversity, St. Barbara's parish continues 
to provide a haven of faith, guidance, renewal and support for more 
than 350 families, along Cleveland's southwest side and far beyond.

                          ____________________