History of St. Barbara Parish. St

History of St. Barbara Parish. St. Barbara. Six Decades of Growth 1924-1983. Dearborn, Michigan, p. 12-64. CAP at Orchard Lake.

Beginnings Sixty years ago, the busy shopping district of Dearborn East was a rural community known as Springwells. Local residents in that era were members of long-established families bearing names like Schaefer, Neckel, Horger, Esper and Oakman. But this tranquil village life was slowly changing. Henry Ford, a plucky hometown boy, had established a factory in faroff Highland Park to build a "new-fangled" contraption called the automobile. His need for a workforce to man his growing industrial empire enticed many to this area. In this atmosphere, forty families of Polish descent settled in Springwells. Bringing their traditions entwined with a strong Roman Catholic fervor, they sought a place for worship. Springwells had only one Catholic church, St. Alphonsus, begun over fifty years before by German and Irish settlers. Because ethnic groups tended to "keep to their own corners" in that age and because some were deficient in English, the new Polish arrivals attended churches on the west side of Detroit where other Polish communities already thrived. However, communication and distance soon proved to be a hardship for the Springwells group. There quickly arose a vital need to establish a local parish within the town to serve their immediate needs, foremost the religious education of their children in a Catholic school. From these forty families, John Olesko, John Maciag, and John Skutnicki provided the impetus for this project. These men approached Stanley Swiatkowski, a local grocer who owned a store at Michigan and Schaefer. Well acquainted with the neighborhood, Swiatkowski provided them with a list of local Polish families who could possibly be contacted. At this point, Mr. Swiatkowski joined the others by providing his store as a focal point of activity. A petition was drafted by these families and presented to the Rt. Reverend Michael J. Gallagher, then Bishop of Detroit. Responding to the enthusiasm and need of the Springwells flock, he willingly approved their organizational plans. However, he withheld pastoral appointment to a later date. On April 20, 1924, Father Joseph Wilemski of St. Stephen's parish in Detroit celebrated the first Mass for the new congregation of St. Barbara. The service was held in the Old Township Hall at the corner of Michigan and Schaefer. There, in the second floor auditorium above the jail quarters, the new parish would meet until a new church would be built. John Schaefer, a local resident who owned the building, donated the use of his hall and soon joined the ranks of parishioners. Later 1 the site would become the birthplace of neighboring parish, St. Clement's. It would prove to be a busy day. Following the first Mass, a parish meeting convened. A Founders committee consisting of Stanley Swiatkowski, Peter Brzeziński, John Makowski, Casimir Staniak, Seb. Jucha, and John Skutnicki resolved to take further action in parish planning and fundraising. Proposed sites for the future parish grounds were discussed. The availability of an entire block, owned by James Casey, at Kenilworth and Ruby, for $26,000, appeared favorable. A contract to buy was drawn and a deposit made. News from the Chancery Office soon followed announcing the pastoral appointment of the Rev. Raphael J. Chrząszcz. With his arrival, the new pastor offered Mass every Sunday morning at 8 o'clock in the Schaefer Building. Early accounts depict Father Chrząszcz as an endearing man with a "retiring disposition." In June of that year Father Chrząszcz was also assigned to serve the newly-formed SS. Peter and Paul parish in Warrendale. To assist him in this busy schedule The Springwells Independent that summer chronicled his purchase of a new (what else?) Ford Tudor Sedan. A pastor, of course, needs a residence. Lacking one, John Schaefer offered Father Chrząszcz lodging in his home. Soon the parish obtained funds to purchase a house from Mr. Schaefer for a low price. (The house at 4608 Calhoun, just south of Michigan Avenue, no longer stands. It was demolished with others on the block in the 1960's for expansion of the Montgomery Ward parking lot). 1924-1933 Meanwhile, dissatisfaction grew over the selected site of the new parish grounds. Some parishioners argued that the land was situated on former swampland, others that it was far from the heart of the Polish community. John Lukasiewicz, a local builder and real estate agent, proposed a plan. He would mediate the purchase of sixteen lots at Colson and Calhoun from John Schaefer for $25,300 in exchange for his personal purchase of the already acquired lots of Kenilworth. He also stipulated that the building contract be awarded to him. His proposal was accepted and the transaction was completed on the 31st of August. Plans were then drafted by Lukasiewicz to build a one- story brick building with a flat roof, having a capacity of six classrooms, four for a school and two for a church. The building cost was $46,000. On Sunday, September 7, 1924, groundbreaking ceremonies for the new church were held. As the grounds were blessed in the presence of several dignitaries and the new parishioners, Father Chrzaszcz threw out the first spade of dirt. The event coincided with another that would have an impact on the future growth of the parish and the entire Springwells community. That same week the transfer of 27,000 workers from the Highland Park Facility to the newly built Rouge Plant was announced. Population expansion was on the horizon. By October construction efforts were well underway. On the Sunday afternoon of October 19, 1924, the parish ceremoniously laid the church cornerstone (situated at what is now the northeast entrance of the school, leading to the Activities Building). Over 2,000 people attended the function, many from Polish communities in Detroit. A parade of Polish military soldiers and cadets in full uniform, carrying flags and led by their own bands, marched from Michigan and Addison to the site of the future church. There the Rt. Reverend Joseph C. Plagens, with the assistance of the

2 clergy, blessed and laid the cornerstone in place. With this accomplished, the Polish troops fired off a military rifle salute. The cornerstone rite was a first for the recently consecrated Bishop Plagens, yet he would preside over many more ceremonies for the new community in his new office of auxiliary bishop. Early parish accounts describe his response to the ceremony: "After the end of the transcription rite, the Eminent Celebrant turned around to the assembled people with sincere yet ardent words. He condemned those who were the current enemies of the Church, of the Polish people, and of the parish schools, and at the same time encouraged the faithful to further deeds and sacrifices. The words fell with dignity, stirring admiration and profound appreciation for the newly consecrated 'Princely Church'." Eager to begin devotions within the new church on the feast of Saint Barbara, Father Chrząszcz scheduled dedication ceremonies for Sunday, November 30, 1924. Though certain details were still incomplete, the church was blessed by Bishop Gallagher on that date. Thus on December 4, the feast of Saint Barbara, Father Chrząszcz celebrated the first Mass in the new church, as he had planned. To commemorate the occasion, he blessed a statue of the parish patroness. Activities soon flourished during the following Advent and Christmastide. On Decem- ber 15, the first two- week mission was conducted by Father Pathe and the Redemptorist Fathers in English and by Augustinian Father Stanley Weinert in Polish. The first annual feather party was held December 22 in the old Schaefer Hall, still used for parish social gatherings. Bishop Plagens returned to bless the first church bell, appropriately during Christmas week on December 28. Shortly afterward, in January, 1925, the first Holy Name Society and Altar Society were organized. These were followed in the spring by the Polish Women's Alliance, Group 451, (March 18) and the Rosary Society (April 5). Subsequently two masses were celebrated on Sundays, one at 8:00 with an English Homily and a High Mass at 10:30 with the sermon in Polish (Masses were all in Latin). Vespers were sung on Sunday evenings at 7:30. Confessions were heard Saturday evenings from 7 to 9 pm. During that first Lenten season, several religious objects were added to the church. On March 8, 1925, the Stations of the Cross were blessed, followed by statues of the Sacred Heart and St. Jo- seph, gifts from Joseph and Anne Neckel, on April 19. Holy Week culminated with Easter services where Father Chrzaszcz was assisted by his cousin, the Rev. Anthony U. Hullin, S. V. D., president of St. Francis Xavier Mission house in Boston. In the midst of all this bustling activity a shocking tragedy occurred. After serving his regular Sunday masses, Father Chrzaszcz contracted pneumonia and died three days later on April 29, 1925. The news vibrated throughout the still tiny community; many were as yet unaware of the pastor's ill health. The death of Father Chrzaszcz became the headlines of the local town newspaper that week where he was eulogized as a man who "shunned all matters of publicity, but made himself very endearing to his parishioners who appreciated his devotion to duty and his charity." A Pontifical Requiem High Mass was celebrated by Bishop Plagens on May 1, 1925. Many parishioners and religious attended. In the interim following the death of Father Chrzaszcz, Saint Barbara's was served by Father Prelate 3 Woznicki, secretary to Bishop Gallagher, who would later become an auxiliary bishop of Detroit. However, on May 17, 1925, the Reverend Stanislaus P. Chmielewski was appointed administrator-provisional pastor of the parish. With a parish debt of $84,500, fundraising was the order of the day. That summer, on August 2, the parish held a gala picnic affair on Jim Daly Road, near the Westwood Inn, south of Michigan Avenue. Large trucks, courtesy of Schaefer-Gleeson, transported picnickers to the grounds. Dan- cing, foot-races, and games of all kinds provided amusement. A special raffle was also held that day offering the following prizes: 1st prize: $10 (donated by the Wayne County and Home Bank), 2nd prize: $10 (donated by the Springwells State Bank), 3rd prize: $10 (donated by Schaefer-Gleeson), 4th prize: $10 (by John Kelly, real estate), 5th prize: one ton of hard coal, donated by A. P. Ternes Coal and Lumber, 6th prize: 100 lbs of flour, donated by Stanley's Springwells Market. The crowd at the affair was estimated to be 1500. Father Chmielewski had intended to open the parish school on September 8, 1925. His plans did not reach fruition, however, because he was transferred. The news surprised many parishioners, some of which had entertained the provisional pastor in their homes only days before. In this stead, the Reverend Vincent Anuszkiewicz arrived as permanent pastor on September 12, 1925. Because of this transfer of office, the opening of the parish school was postponed until September 21, 1925, when the first and second grades began classes followed by grades 3, 4, 5 and 6 on Octo- ber 12, 1925. Eighty school children were enrolled that first school year as classes were conducted by lay teachers Anna Waliczki, Mary Olszewski, and Olga Kulin. Lay teachers were hired because a shortage of teaching religious existed in the diocese. Throughout that first school year, Father Anuszkiewicz, the new pastor, petitioned several religious communities requesting a team of teaching sisters for St. Barbara's School. After many frustrations, the Community of the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth in Bellevue, Pennsylvania, informed him that five of their sisters would be assigned to the parish. The sisters arrived in August, 1926, in time to begin the second school year on September 8. The first superior-principal was Sister M. Nazarene, and, together with Sister M. Suzanne, Sister M. Angeline, Sister M. Christiana, and Sister M. Basil, the supervision of the school was assumed by this order and continues to the present day. At first the sisters were offered lodgings in John Skutnicki's garage home at the corner of Calhoun and Colson (recently demolished), but were shortly moved next door to the upstairs apartment of his two-family flat where they lived for one year. Then, in November, 1927, the sisters moved to Jacob Kolodziej's home at 5211 Bingham where they resided until 1931. Realizing that the strength of a parish often lies in its organizations, Father Anuszkiewicz set about a revitalization program for the existing societies in the parish. Where a need for an organization existed, he created a new one including the Young Ladies Sodality (December 4, 1926), the Children of Mary and Junior Holy Name Society (1927), the Polish National Alliance, Group 2525 (February 4, 1929), St. Anthony's Society (April 28, 1929), and a new Altar Society (April 29, 1928) which exists to the present day. With all these organizations, social activities, and fundraising events, a need to build a parish hall 4 became imminent. Previously most took place at the Schaefer Building auditorium or on grounds owned by John H. Schaefer. In 1929, it happened that certain streets in Dearborn were being wid- ened to accommodate traffic from the Rouge Plant and Headquarters Building of the Ford Motor Company. Consequently, many buildings were ordered to be moved or demolished. A store on the corner of Schaefer and Ford Road was purchased "dirt cheap" at auction for $125 and moved to the parish grounds on July 7, 1929. After renovations were completed, the Grand Opening of the new parish hall occurred on October 11, 1929. For almost forty years the building served as a site of parish and school functions. With these major projects accomplished, new parish administration policies were begun. Reserved family pews were cancelled on New Year's Day, 1930; thereafter everyone was charged 10$ for sitting in a pew. A system of Sunday collection envelopes was instituted on February 1, 1930. A weekly parish bulletin announced church events, beginning March 1, 1930. By 1930, the parish had grown to 400 families, the school expanded to almost 300 children in eight grades and Father James Johnson was acquired as a weekend assistant. With these popu- lations, the existing church and school building could not accommodate the growing needs. On May 18, 1930, Father Anuszkiewicz sought to resolve these problems by forming a special building committee consisting of John Yagley, Victor Malyszko, Frank Zawacki, Frank Najmowicz, Peter No- zewski, Stanley Swiatkowski, Casimir Staniak, Felix Budny, Joseph Cieliczki, and Joseph Jakubiec. After lengthy discussions, it was decided that a two-story annex would be added to the existing church building. The addition would create eight more rooms, two of which would be designated for the church, three upstairs as a residence for the Sisters and three for classrooms proper. In addition, plans were drafted for a rectory to be conveniently built on the parish grounds. The cost of this twofold project amounted to $65,000 ($50,000 for the annex and $15,000 for the rectory). Groundbreaking occurred the week of June 29, 1930. Parish life continued in the midst of the carpenter's hammer. A two-week mission was conducted from October 19 to November 2, under the leadership of the Rev. 0. A. Piasecki and the Rev. J. Czapli. Meanwhile a committee of parishioners consisting of J. Yagley, P. Wygonik, E. Zalinski, H. Zabczyk, K. Nozewski, P. Świątkowski, M. Archacki, P. Yagley, J. Zitny, F. Zawacki, P. Dulemba, W. Malyszko, P. Brzeziński, and A. Majewski planned an extensive dedication ceremony of the new buildings for November 16, 1930, though work was not fully completed. A commemorative souvenir booklet was prepared for the event, led again by Bishop Plagens and assisted by Father Anuszkiewicz and several other priests. Following the ceremony, a reception was held in the parish hall. In the words of Father Anuszkiewicz looking back on the time left in the decade: "not much happened after that." The ill-fated Depression was well on its way, making finances difficult. Yet it did not dampen parish enthusiasm for simpler tasks. Sodding of the parish grounds began in April, 1931. On May 24, 1931, the main altar, a gift of the Altar Society, was installed and blessed. Father James Johnson, the weekend assistant since 1928, resigned in June, 1933. That summer and fall various priests filled his post. The decade that began like a skyrocket ended at a much slower pace…

5 Tempus Fugit…, Czas Ucieka…, Time Flies . . . Burdened with financial debt in the midst of the Great Depression, Saint Barbara's parish still commemorated the first ten years of its existence and began its second decade on a note of hope. After a series of temporal pastoral assistants, the Reverend Vitalis Lasota was appointed a permanent assistant to the parish on May 25, 1934. In place of the parish picnic that year, a dinner and raffle were held on June 24. A novena to St. Theresa, on August 19, was led by Reverend John Pietrzak of the Salesian order. However, the most outstanding event of the year occurred on November 4 when a solemn High Mass was held in honor of the 10th Anniversary of the parish founding. The Reverend Albert Zadala, pastor of Assumption Church (Detroit), who had offered guidance to the founders of the parish in its early years, delivered the sermon. In the evening a banquet was held, attended by prominent guests, parishioners, and their friends. As a keepsake of that Jubilee year, a soft-covered 10th Anniversary Book was published. Written primarily in the Polish language, the book chronicled a ten-year history of Saint Barbara's parish, including portraits of former pastors, and group photos of the organizations existing in the Jubilee year. Though the period of the thirties kept most in the newly established City of Dearborn economi- cally depressed, parishioners still tried to keep their spirits alive. Activities and growth, although hampered, never completely stopped. Organizations continued to thrive throughout the decade. In addition to regular services, spiritual needs during this period were continually served by an annual mission or retreat in the winter months, followed by a novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help in either spring or summer. The Reverend John Pietrzak (Salesian), Reverend Joseph Jaworski, and Reverend Joseph Gredler (Redemptorist) served the parish in this regard. Though the parish was relatively new, renovations and repairs were constantly made to maintain and upgrade the church property. Parishioners, in June of 1935, undertook the task of cleaning and painting classrooms and the Sisters' quarters. This was followed by a massive overall repaint- ing in 1938 of the rectory, school, church, and Sisters' quarters. In October, 1935, the parish hall was enlarged by having a basement dug underneath it. This facility was later relinquished to the Young Men's Club, in 1939, for recreational activities. Redecoration of the hall interiors occurred in August, 1937. Then there was always something that broke down and thus needed fixing or replacement. During that decade a new boiler (1938), combustioner stoker (1936, 1939) fire tender and enlarged boiler (1939) were included among the fuel bills. Perhaps the most enjoyed new addition was an organ, a Hammond Electric. A play, "wina i Kara" was offered at Fordson High School in 1935 to raise funds for the new organ which was finally installed in 1937. Additional religious items were added to the church in that period. New Stations of the Cross were installed and blessed on March 3, 1935. Side altars, the generous gift of Mr. Victor Malyszko, in memory of his wife and son, were installed on May 7, 1939. For three consecutive years (1936-1938) the parish held a carnival in the last week of June to raise funds. However, this concept was dropped in 1939 and was replaced by a system of Pledge Cards.

6 1934-1943 In January, 1937, the Rt. Reverend Michael J. Gallagher, Bishop of the Diocese of Detroit, died. He was succeeded by Archbishop Edward J. Mooney, who arrived in Detroit on August 1, 1937, and was installed the following day. That year Archbishop Mooney visited Saint Barbara's for the first time to officiate at the Sacrament of Confirmation on October 31, 1937. 1939 was a particular memorable year, both in the spiritual and secular spheres. Pope Pius XI died, succeeded by Pope Pius XII who was crowned on March 13, 1939. Within the City of Dearborn, business was finally crawling out of the Depression and local residents looked forward to the pros- perity created by industry supplying the war effort in Europe. Activities in the parish particularly reflected the times. On March 19 a collection for German refugees was held, followed on April 30 by a special collection for the Defense of Poland. That year and in subsequent ones, efforts were made to assist the Polish Red Cross in several ventures. A sewing circle was held in October followed by a collection drive. To raise additional funds, the Polish Women's Alliance sponsored a benefit program on December 10, 1939. By 1941, the congregation numbered over 2000 people. John Tamrack, a local journalist, described the parish in a Dearborn Press article that year which covered the parish history and mentioned that "Many societies flourish at St. Barbara's and among them are the altar boys, the senior and young people's choir, a Young Men's Club, a bowling league, and many others." In early July, 1941, Father Anuszkiewicz left Saint Barbara's to assume the pastorate of Saint John Cantius parish in the Delray district of Detroit. He was replaced by Father Edward Szumal. Months later, with the bombing of Pearl Harbor, America was officially at war. The parish was not immune to the tragedies that accomplice wartime. Along with others in the city they grew their victory gardens, bought war bonds, and prayed for peace. Parish records of war dead and causal- ities were never truly kept or, if they were, have been lost with time. From memorial masses and Young Men's Club recollections it is known that at least seven young men from this parish gave their lives for their country from the period 1942-1946. Of these, the first to die was Edward T. Mieszczur, a member of the Young Men's Club, on May 29, 1943. In September, 1943, Father Szumal left Saint Barbara's to become Rector of Orchard Lake Semi- nary. Father Joseph Tompor arrived to replace him. A new parish decade was about to begin with a new pastor. The Battle Of The Bulging Church As the second World War continued, Father Joseph Tompor, the new pastor, ministered to the needs of parishioners with the fulltime assistance of the Reverend Roman Narkun and the weekend help of Father Constantine Cyran. Parish Life reflected the mood of the nation. A reading of mass schedules of this period reveal that stipends were made not only in memory of those who had died in the war but also for those living: for those who were in active combat, for recovery of wounds sustained while fighting in action, for a safe return, and a thanksgiving once a father, son or brother was again home. The Young Men's-Usher's Club organized a Servicemen's Club and held various functions including a bingo on January 21, 1945. Some gave tokens of remembrance 7 or thanksgiving. Cass Horrack, a young parishioner, donated an American Flag to the parish as a farewell gift before he left for the service. He later returned safely home. Though wartime dispensa- tion was in effect during Lent and on Ember Days (i.e. obligation of fast and abstinence was limited to Ash Wednesday and Good Friday with abstinence from meat on Fridays) parishioners were still encouraged to continue their acts of prayer and self- mortification to bring about peace. Many collections and wartime drives highlighted this period. Ladies of the parish conducted house- to-house canvassing to raise funds for the Red Cross. A Bishop's War Emergency and Relief Collection was held March 11, 1945. In April of that year the parish partook in a National Clothing Drive, conducted by the UNRRA, with a goal of 150 million lbs. of clothing for free distribution to the needy in war-devastated lands. This was followed in early June by a campaign to collect canned goods, sanitary supplies, and medicine to be distributed to Polish refugees. These efforts continued even after the war when a canned food drive was held from December 9-16 for the starving millions in Europe and the Far East. In April, 1945, the war in Europe was over. The parish bulletin of April 29, 1945, reported St. Bar- bara's jubilant response: "On the proclamation of victory in the European theater of war thoughts should turn to God in thanksgiving for His strong help in repelling the assaults of our enemies. Immediately after the proclamation that the war in Europe is over, the church bells will ring and at the same evening at 7:30 a Holy Hour will be observed." President Truman in his Proclamation to the people of the United States declared Sunday, May 13, 1945, as a special day of Thanksgiving to God for victory in Europe. A world-wide broadcast of the Family Rosary was held that same day. Finally, with the surrender of the Japanese forces that summer, a day of Prayer and Thanksgiving for victory was declared for August 19, 1945. With the end of the war, St. Barbara's as well as the entire Catholic Community made the transition to peacetime. Old regulations for fast and abstinence were resumed. All Catholics from 21 years of age to 60 were obliged under pain of mortal sin to fast every day of Lent except Sunday. Those over 7 years of age were obliged to abstain from meat on all Fridays and Wednesdays of Lent, on Saturday of Ember week and the forenoon of Holy Saturday. With few revisions these rules remained in effect for almost two decades until they were reformed by Vatican II in the 1960's. Throughout the decade during and following the war, certain liturgical services and parish activities became routine in the parish. Devotions to the Sacred Heart were observed every First Friday of the month, complete with procession of school children. Missions were usually conducted for one or two weeks during Lent. Summer was a time for bringing garden flowers for the altar, going to a parish picnic on Bob-Lo Island, or embarking on a pilgrimage to the grotto of Our Lady of Orchard Lake. In October, forty hours devotions were held. For a considerable period of years the Sisters would routinely ask for piano donations for the school classrooms. 1944-1953 The Young Ladies' Sodality was an active and visible organization throughout the forties. Member- ship in the organization was encouraged for "every girl in the parish who is over sixteen and desires to become a better Catholic." Many dances were sponsored throughout the years by this group including a "Snowflake Shuffle" held in the winter of the 25th Jubilee year. One member, Genevieve

8 Lukowski, rose to president of the Archdiocesan Sodality Council. In 1949, she received the honor to crown the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary at the University of Detroit Marian Day, May 15. Of course, many of these young ladies soon became young married ladies. A movement soon grew to organize a group for married women. The Young Married Ladies' Sodality (Later Christian Mothers) was organized June 6, 1951, by Virginia Gruska. During this period the parish bulletin became a forum for reprimands that needed emphasis beyond the sermons of Sunday mornings. Parishioners were constantly rebuked for leaving church early, coming in late, and disturbing priests at the rectory during dinner hours and on weekends for non-emergencies. Women were reminded to wear hats in church. Some of these lectures took humorous routes. When new electric fans were installed in Church in July of 1949, the parish bulletin chronicler remarked: "Remember! There won't be any fans in hell or purgatory and you won't be able to fall asleep or to run out of those states at your will." Another clerical complaint was the mad rush to the altar rail for communion, aptly named "the last minute 25 yd. dash." During summer, fishermen who missed Mass to catch the "the big one" were chastised. In 1948, Father Narkun was replaced by Father Joseph Strzelewicz as assistant pastor. That year Father Tompor was deeply occupied with the first of several projects that would mark his pastoral ministry as one of expansive growth. The Sisters were outgrowing their quarters above the school and, with predicted increasing enrollments, more classrooms and more teachers would be required. Plans were drafted to construct a convent equipped to house about sixteen sisters to be built on property north of the church and parish hall. This impressive structure cost about $163,000 to build. Father Tompor announced to his parishioners that no special "tax" would be required of them to pay for this costly project. Instead he suggested that if all would double their Sunday contributions the cost of construction would be paid within two years. Financial assistance also came through various organizations. Among these, the Polish Women's Alliance sponsored a bazaar October 30, 31, and November 1, 1948, in the Parish Hall and the Altar Society held a bingo in May of the following year. Monday morning, December 6, 1948, at 9:00 the ground was broken for the Sisters' Convent. Con- struction took about nine months to complete. Meanwhile parishioners collected articles needed for the Sisters' new home. On September 4, 1949, the Sisters began the moving process from the rooms above the school into their new quarters. Two weeks later, on September 25, they held an open house for the generous parishioners who made the building possible. While this important project kept many occupied, it appeared that another event was almost overlooked. In 1949, the parish had become 25 years old. Almost hastily the parish turned its thoughts to 25th Jubilee Celebrations as the feast of St. Barbara approached. (Perhaps this explains why a 25-year history book was never published!) Beginning November 27, 1949, devotions to St. Barbara were conducted every evening in Polish and English until December 4. On Sunday December 11, at 10:00 in the morning, a solemn Mass of Thanksgiving was celebrated. The most Reverend Bishop Stephen S. Woznicki, D.D., who, as monsignor, had served a short interim as parish administrator in 1925 between the death of Father Chrzaszcz and the arrival of Father Chmielewski, presided in the sanctuary during the services. Father Tompor celebrated the Mass, assisted by the Reverend Andrew Wotta and the Reverend Anthony Kolanczyk as subdeacon. The Reverend Alexander Cend- rowski preached the Jubilee sermon, heard by more than forty priests together with parishioners

9 and guests. Blessing of the new parish convent took place that afternoon. The early fifties again brought parish concern for the outside world. Cardinal Mooney urged all to pray for those in the Korean conflict. On December 30, 1951, a day of prayer and reparation was called for the victims behind the Iron Curtain and the Orient. The spread of communism became an increasing concern to all within the country and the parish. The Catholic League for Religious Assistance to Poland became an annual drive in the summer. On November 15, 1953, a day of prayer for the persecuted Church in Poland was observed. On the home front, the Legion of Decency pledge was made every year around December 8 to take a stand against immoral literature, motion pictures, and, soon, programs from a new modern time spender called television. Parishioners were urged to write Congressman Lesinski to defend the justice of federal aid for parochial schools. Fluoride treatment for St. Barbara school children was held in March, 1951. That same year the St. Barbara Class F Basketball Team won the Dearborn Recreational Championship under the direction of coach Benny Franas. Meanwhile bingo and bowling became the rage. Throughout the parish history, it appeared that bowling, the "City Sport", was organized into a parish league at one time or another. A St. Barba- ra's Ladies' Bowling League was organized in 1949. On July 26, 1950, a St. Barbara's Men's Bowling League was organized by Phil Burch and Stan Oleszko. The first season was held September 10, 1950, with a promise: "Fr. Tompor to bowl first strike." Bingo in 1950 was held every Monday night in the Parish Hall at 8:00. However, by the following year, the local Police Department sent a directive that forced the parish to discontinue all bingo games. The year 1950 was also known as the Holy Year, a time for pilgrimages to famous Catholic Shrines. Early in that year, Father Tompor went on a pilgrimage to Rome, Italy. On Sunday, November 4, 1951, Father Joseph F. Tompor celebrated the Silver Jubilee of his ordination to the priesthood. That morning at 10 o'clock he celebrated a solemn Mass of Thanksgiving, assisted by the Reverend Edwin Milka, assistant pastor of SS. Peter and Paul of Detroit and Father Roman Narkun, assistant pastor of St. Michael's, Pontiac, and former assistant to this parish. Father Remigius Steczkowski, O.F.M., guardian of St. Paschal Monastery, Toledo, preached the sermon. The most Reverend Stephen S. Woznicki, then Bishop of Saginaw, again presided over the service while the combined choirs of the parish sang under the direction of Leonard Kondrat. That evening at 6:30 a testimonial banquet was held in the Italian-American Hall on Oakman Boule- vard, conducted by Father Alexander Cendrowski, procurator of SS. Cyril and Methodius Seminary of Orchard Lake. Among the speakers were Father Venaty Szymanski, assistant pastor of St. Albertus parish of Detroit, and Chester A. Kosdroj, an attorney. During his first eight years as pastor, Father Tompor had earned the respect, confidence, and sup- port of his parishioners. Under his direction and with the cooperation of his flock, St. Barbara had manifested noteworthy progress. Along with the completion of the parish convent, he liquidated the $80,000 parish debt and acquired additional land for the parish. Yet a new project would soon occupy his ministry that would outshine the rest.

10 The parish had outgrown the existing church with the alacrity of a child in a new pair of shoes. In 1945 there were five masses on Sundays. By 1948, with the return of those from the war, the "baby boom", and the increasing city population due to the expansion of industry, the church was bulging with parishioners at services. The parish in that year served 1,200 families and supported a school of 430 children. In the first years of this situation children were restricted from attendance at the last two masses. By 1950 the problem was alleviated in part by establishing a Children's Mass at 8:30 Sunday mornings and by requesting that organizations attend the early mass at 7:30. By 1951, seven Sunday masses were said, beginning at 6:30 am and ending with the late mass at 12:45 pm. Then, in 1953, a new idea to remedy this problem was proposed: a new church. Immediately parish organizations contrived means of raising money for this cause; the first recorded was the Young Ladies' Sodality "Brick Sale" on June 21, 1953. The first parishioners to make individual contributions to the project were Marion Matuszewski, Victoria Bieniek, and Albert Dobkowski. It would be a tough uphill battle. Expansion years How does one build a church? With prayers, innovation, hard work, and a lot of money. The parish needed over $100,000 before groundbreaking could begin on a building originally estimated at $650,000. It would take talent and sacrifice to achieve this "small miracle". On June 6, 1954, Father Tompor established a new format for the weekly parish bulletin. Now called St. Barbara's News, the publication invited parishioners to contribute articles. More important, however, the bulletin established an Honor Roll which listed individual contributions to the New Church Fund. By January, 1955, due to a shortage of funding, each parish family was requested to make a special one-hundred dollar donation to the church, payable in a lump sum or in four twenty-five dollar monthly installments. Organizations tried every possible fundraising scheme short of a parish festival to raise money. The Ushers' Club sponsored a drawing of U.S. Savings Bonds. The Young Married Ladies' Sodality sold religious articles and held a Pre-Lenten Party. An all-occasion card sale was conducted in the spring. The Holy Name Society held a 500-club Drawing. Choir members sold their own raffle tickets to raise funds for a new organ. The Altar Society sponsored a social party. Saint Barbara's schoolchildren donated $1038.00. A Bake Sale appeared almost every week on parish grounds as the Rosary Society, Altar Society, Young Ladies' Sodality, Polish Women's Alliance, Married Ladies' Sodality, and Third Order alternated sponsorship. In January, 1955, Father Tompor received permission from Cardinal Mooney to build the new church. Architects A. Frank Herman and Howard T. Simons designed a structure adapted from Spanish mission architecture, known for its simple grace and beauty. The specifications included a facade of Plain Bedford stone and a roof of mission tile. Seating capacity on the main floor was 954; the choir loft, 58. The main entrance would face Schaefer Road and the structure would lie just north of the Rectory. Father Tompor arranged a tentative spring date for groundbreaking with contractor Matthew Lalewicz. This ceremony occurred on April 17, 1955.

11 Throughout the fundraising and church construction, parish administration and activity continued. Father Joseph Strzelewicz was transferred in the Summer of 1954 and was replaced by the Reverend Benedict Rembelski as assistant pastor. Forty hours devotions occurred annually in October as did a Bob-lo outing every June. A Pantry Shower to supply the Sisters' needs was conducted every fall. A one-week mission was held in March, 1955. Modesty in dress, Juvenile Delinquency, and proper courtship behavior were the concerns of the day. St. Barbara's School could boast of a successful graduate: Dr. Bernard Serrester found time from his medical practice to write "The Frog Murders" in 1955. The publication was available at Hudson's and Doubledays for $3.00. Construction of the church foundations progressed to warrant a cornerstone ceremony. Father Tom- por originally scheduled this outdoor ceremony for October 16, 1955. The Lord, unfortunately, had other plans for that date and sent rain to dampen everyone's plans. The ceremony was therefore postponed until October 23 at 3:00. The wait proved beneficial. Color pictures of the event (see page 14) indicate it was a beautiful sunny day. Meanwhile the fundraising continued. A seat collection of 25

13 Meanwhile the older Boy Scouts continued their activities. They canoed at Proud Lake, near Milford, on July 10, 1959. They won blue ribbons in scouting, camping, and cleanliness at the District 8 Fall 1959 Camporee held at Kensington Park. On February 7, 1960, the 50th Anniversary of the Boy Scouts of America, tents were displayed on the parish lot and the parish scouts attended Holy Hour services at U of D. In August, 1962, Ray Wright and the Explorer Scouts packed and loaded boxes for the migrant worker drive. That same year the troop could boast of six parish "Star Scouts": Kenneth Wright, Lawrence Suchyta, Michael Shields, George Hogie, Samuel Barlaam, and Gregory Czubik. Their female counterparts, the Girl Scouts of America, were organized in the fall of 1959. Brownies held their first meeting September 22 while Intermediate Girl Scouts met the following day. Irene Tellish, parish Girl Scout representative, spent the next two months looking for Scout Leaders. Among those she enlisted were Mrs. Herman Brindley for Senior Scouts; Mrs. George Theisen for Intermediates; and Mrs. John Radomski and Mrs. Raymond Wright for the Brownies. On December 13, 1959, a Sunday afternoon, the troops held their investiture presided by Father Edward Wilk, chaplain to the organization. In the following year of 1960, the Girl Scouts held a Card and Bunco party on February 25. During Girl Scout Week in March they sold their famous cookies and attended communion in a group that Sunday, March 6. A Holy Hour followed that afternoon at U of D. That week at Salina School, Dearborn, the scouts performed in a musical variety show with other troops from the Dearborn area. Like the parish Boy Scouts, they participated in the annual City Memorial Day Parade. In 1961 Girl Scouting was fifty years old. That year the parish scouts attended the Holy Hour for Girl Scouts on Sunday March 22. It was the first year that St. Barbara's was represented in the Flag Ceremony. The following evening at Salina School, the troops performed in a program called "Music in Scouting". Leaders responsible for the program were Mrs. Ray Wright, Mrs. John Radomski, Mrs. A1 Nolan, Mrs. Edward Stachulski, Mrs. Steve Stachura, and Mrs. Steve Tellish. Gold bars in honor of the 50th Anniversary of Girl Scouting were presented to the leaders. One former Brownie recalls of those years: "We went on many outings, like the Singer Sewing Center, and to a Doll Hospital. Then we were on television: We participated in the games on 'Milky's Party Time' and a show for kids on WXYZ. There was day camp in the summer at Ford's Woods where we made Indian dresses out of burlap bags and collected wildflowers. My favorite time was our Brownie performance at Salina School. We did a baton dance to '76 Trombones' the first year. The next year we dressed up like Raggedy-Ann Brownies and danced to Lawrence Welk's 'Calcutta'. We seemed so professional because Sharon Radomski, our Brownie choreographer, had taken dancing classes for several years." In September, 1961, Girl Scouting was suspended temporarily in the parish due to the unavailability of Scout Leaders. By January, 1963, interest grew again as Mary Reese began reorganization. The Girl Scouts met again in September, 1963. Organizations thrived during this period. The Ushers formed a social club on January 12, 1958, meeting once a month. Their group picture was published in the church bulletin September 7, 1958. Single Catholics were served by a Teen Club, a Young Adults Club, and a 30-and-Over Club. Sodalists were proud of member Mary Ann Satawa who was selected "Catholic Miss of America" for the 14 November, 1958, Catholic Miss Magazine. The Young Married Ladies' Sodality raised money for a car for the parish Sisters and held a raffle for the school library. In February, 1960, the organization officially became the Christian Mothers. The Holy Name Society donated communion rail cushions for the new church in April, 1959. The previous year, the Society formed its own softball team. Ed Mordarski, a former minor league catcher, was manager of the 18-member team. Among the star players were Ray Sudek, Marty Orlowski, A1 Muto, Joe Michalik, and Stan Litwin. Basketball and baseball were youth sports. The St. Barbara's Cagers, a basketball team managed by A1 Stadnik and coached by Gerald Zitny, were organized in 1959. By April, 1960, the team became City Champions. Baseball teams for both boys and girls existed. By 1958, St. Barbara's School began to publish graduation pictures in the parish bulletin. That same year in October, Dr. Molnar encouraged the polio vaccination of schoolchildren. In September, 1959, the school started its first kindergarten class. A fund was established in January, 1960, to raise funds for a new rectory. The existing building had recently suffered a series of floods which destroyed many valuable books and papers in a basement library. Father Wilk was transferred during this period in June. He was replaced by the Reverend Stanley Kukulski as assistant. In January, 1961, John F. Kennedy, the first Catholic U.S. President, began his term and heralded the "Camelot Years." Parishioners watched "Ben Hur" at the Circle Theatre for $1.25. All were encouraged to view "All in the Family" (no relation to Archie Bunker), billed as an interesting and though-provoking 12-week program on CKLW. Schoolchildren were given TB tests on October 23. The following week, on October 29, Father Tompor celebrated the 35th Anniversary of his Ordination with a Solemn Mass of Thanksgiving. Uniforms were introduced as school wear in September, 1962. As parishioners saved stamps for the missions, some grew concerned over the use of dirty words and whether women should wear gloves in church. The first reform of Vatican II arrived December 8, 1962 when St. Joseph's name was added to the Canon of the Mass. A survey of the parish was conducted in those 50 years by Sisters M. Dorothy and M. Lauretta CSFN. Four hundred parish households were contacted; three hundred families responded. The survey dubbed Dearborn "A City of Advantages," a place of "clean streets, neighborhood swimming pools and ice rinks, rapid snow removal, regular garbage and rubbish pickup, a 586-acre 'Citizens Country Club,' a fine school system, low tax rate and, in the words of its 11-term Mayor Orville L. Hubbard, 'all this and more too." Ford Motor Company was expanding world-wide and two colleges, Henry Ford Community, and the University of Michigan-Dearborn Campus, were newly built. Dearborn was a realization of the national idyll. Within this dream city, St. Barbara's was composed of 2300 families with a total parishioner count of 7000. Various ethnic groups were represented including Polish, German, Italian, Ukrainian, French, Irish, and several Slovak groups. The birth rate was approximately 130 per year; infant mortality was one per year.

15 According to the survey: "Employment in the parish covers a wide range, the largest percent being Factory Employment . . . Only a small amount of mothers are employed outside the home . . . Most of the parents have completed their high school education. . . The families on the whole are average size the largest percent ranging between three to five children per family. Large families with ten to twelve children are sparse and the only child' family ranks about average in comparison with statistics . . . the conveniences in the home are normal in comparison. Automobiles, televisions, and especially the radio, which averages about three to a home, take the lead. Mangles and deep freezes fall in the low per cent bracket." How did parishioners spend their leisure time? The survey reports that mothers listed reading, television, cooking, sewing and "Just spending a quiet evening at home with the family." Fathers listed television, bowling and sports. Youngsters watched television, skated, danced and played baseball, football, and basketball. Cheerleading was a girlish sport. In September, 1962, Father Tompor and Father Kukulski moved from the old rectory to a white trailer between the convent and the parish hall. This temporary office and living quarters existed while the old rectory was demolished on September 16. During that year a new rectory, constructed of red brick and mission tile, was erected on the old rectory grounds. Several trees were uprooted to the dismay of a few nature lovers. Wire fencing encircled the construction site. By summer, 1963, the building was completed and an Open House was held for parishioners. On June 3, 1963, Pope John XXIII died. Soon after his death, on June 21, Pope Paul VI was elected. On September 29, 1963, the second session of the Ecumenical Council convened under the direction of the newly elected pontiff. During that time, Saint Barbara's welcomed two new assistants. In June, the Reverend John Krol arrived. Father Krol was a survivor of the concentration camps in World War II before being freed by American soldiers from the First Army. The second assistant, Father Joseph Grzelak, arrived on September 15, 1963. Then on November 22, 1963... There followed a memorial in the parish bulletin: "The death of John Fitzgerald Kennedy, the first Catholic President of the United States, occurred suddenly and tragically in the early afternoon of Friday, Nov. 22, 1963. He was shot to death in a cowardly but arrogant manner by a man whose motive may never be known to us on this earth. Whatever the motive, it seems to have been engendered by hate, and self-pity which gave rise to arrogance. It is ironical that the President uttered his famous phrase, 'Ask not what you can do for your country' and was assassinated by a man who demanded the country bow to his every whim — including expatriation." "We will long remember John F. Kennedy, not only because he (was) one of our assassinated Presidents, but because he was a man of principle, courage, and devotion to his family. We Catholics will have a special place for him in our memories because, perhaps, we felt he had symbolized a victory over bigotry by being elected President, the first Catholic in our history." 16 One parishioner recalls: "School was dismissed early that Friday. Who could study? A Solemn Memorial Mass was said at St. Barbara's within days of the assasination. The children's school choir sang Mozart's Requiem as Father Tompor celebrated the Mass before a catafalque draped in black." In the Wake of Vatican II On July 19, 1964, the following article appeared in the parish bulletin: HELP WANTED Male and female help wanted. Must be St. Barbara's parishioner. Must have experience at being at Catholic. We offer on the job training. Fringe benefits are all spiritual. Right now we don't know exactly what you're going to do. But we'll soon find out from Rome. With the rejuvenation going on in the Church today we need people here at St. Barbara's who are not afraid to "get involved" in the life of the parish community. Here's an advance, non-official idea of the jobs we have to fill from among our parishioners: men commentators at the Masses on Sundays; men and women (young and old) with singing voices to sing some of the parts of the Mass; men lectors who will read the epistle and gospel selections at Mass; men and women "ringers" who will be sprinkled throughout the congregation who will encourage others to vocal participation in the Mass prayers of worship. These and other "positions" are up for grabs in our parish. So far we have two young men and two women who have volunteered to be of help wherever they can be of use. If you'd like a job in our parish community, notify Fr. Grzelak, our "personnel manager." He assures that you will work among nice people. The "fresh air" of the Ecumenical Council had arrived at St. Barbara Parish. To many it blew about like a Michigan tornado with all its dizzied effects. It is true that liturgical changes had occurred throughout Church History. Within the twentieth century alone the Vatican periodically updated regulations on fasting and other Church matters. Yet few parishioners appeared prepared for the whirlwind of changes that were about to come. Looking back, the Renewal covered approximately a decade. However, enough reforms occurred during that period that a prodigal Catholic from the early sixties would, by 1970, hardly recognize the Church he had left behind. The most apparent changes involved the Mass. No longer said in Latin, the service was gradually changed to the vernacular by October, 1967. For Polish-speaking parishioners, a Polish High Mass was instituted in February, 1966. Parishes throughout Catholicism established dialogue Masses whereby the congregation responded and prayed along with the priest during worship. For these purposes, a new missal and corresponding missalettes for the laity were developed. The new missal included a choice of four Canons and more selections of Scripture so that the entire Bible could be read in three years. Lay participation in worship went beyond the pew and prayer book. All were encouraged to sing. Hymnals and racks to hold them were installed in 1965. The following year church hymn boards 17 hung on the front walls of the church, their numerals printed by parishioner Ron Boshaw. Those present at Mass were invited to bring offertory gifts to the main altar. Laymen were also encouraged to read the epistles and the recently instituted Old Testament read- ings before the congregation. A training program for commentators and lectors was begun on April 4, 1965. Among the first to take training were Edward Hamel, Joseph Markulicz, Bernie Stec, Ralph Suchyta, Phil Voltattorni, Frank Weyer, and Bob Wilk. A portable altar, where the priest could face the congregation during Mass, was installed on the sanctuary floor before the main altar. Communion under two species — bread and wine — was allowed on certain occasions, like Nuptial Masses. Evening weddings were permitted. Violet vestments replaced black ones at funerals in June, 1967. By 1970 white vestments were used. Saturday evening masses at 5:30 and 7:00 fulfilled Sunday obligation. There were "special masses." One, which caused consternation among the older generation (remember, this was the era of the "Generation Gap"!) was the "guitar Mass." In April, 1968, the high school CCD prepared the liturgy during their classes. The first "guitar Mass" was held in church on June 9, 1968, for 12th Grade graduates. The parish bulletin described it as "a mass in a young people's style" but neglected to report the reaction of elders. 1964-1973 During this period of ecclesiastical confusion, the parish administration experienced its own dramatic changes. Father John Krol was transferred in October, 1964, and was replaced by the Reverend Joseph Drogowski. In October, 1965, Father Tompor became ill and entered Mercywood Hospital, Ann Arbor, for observation and rest. Due to his prolonged absence, Archbishop Dearden appointed the Reverend Thaddeus Wypijewski administrator on March 8, 1966, and transferred Father Drogowski. Parishioners, curious about the correct pronunciation of the new administrator's name, soon learned at a PTG meeting that you say it "V.P.S.Kee". In August, 1966, Father Tompor resigned his pastorship, the longest in parish history, and accepted retirement at Carmel Hall. Father Wypijewski was appointed pastor on August 17, 1966. Many of the Church reforms were the result of a world-wide Synod begun on the parish level in August, 1967. Instructions on the Renewal were taught through Sunday sermons, three television programs, and printed literature. All parishioners were invited to attend discussions headed by a parish Synod committee consisting of Father Wypijewski, Father Grzelak, Sister M. Aloysius, Clar- ence Nowak, Virginia Gruska, and Susan Suchyta. The Synod discussed issues regarding community affairs, the laity, administration, worship, the religious life, and education. Parishioners were then asked to vote on proposals from these meetings on December 10- 17, 1967, and January 7, 1968. A diocesan Synod followed in March, 1969, at Cobo Hall. The Laity was encouraged to become involved in the operation of the parish through the Parish Council. St. Barbara's held its first Parish Council meeting on Sunday, February 6, 1966, in the parish hall. Officers of every organization were requested to attend. The framework of this early council consisted of a chairman, a secretary, and a representative from each organization. The first council members included Joseph Musial (Chairman and Ushers), Helen Guido (Secretary and

18 Christian Mothers) both elected for one year; Helen Jasionowicz (Alliance Dancers), Clara Burch (Altar Society), August DiFazio (Boy Scouts), Phil Voltattorni (Cub Pack), Paula Trotto (Brownies), A1 Muto (Holy Name Society), Frank Weyer (Lectors), Sophie Maciag (Legion of Mary), Angeline Bolak (NCCW), Angeline Lepiczynski (O. L. Auxiliary), Fred Wolski (PTG), Vincent Tychulski (Polish Ameri- can Senior Citizens), Lottie Pawlak (PWA), Anna Pokocka (Rosary Society), Angeline Crongeyer (St. Anthony Society, PRCU), Sister Georgia (Sisters), Catherine Nawrocki (Third Order), Andrew Hebda (PNA), and Frank Wozniak (25 and up). By Synodal Decree, the Council began reorganization in 1969. Organizational representatives were eliminated and a Steering Committee served in the interim. By the following year they structured the council to its present form. It provided for a group consisting of parish priests, sisters, elected council members, and chairmen of four standing committees: Worship, Christian Service, Christian Formation, and Finance. The first elected officers of the Parish Council were Anthony Bloink,- Ray mond Sudek, Phil Voltattorni (3-year terms), Angeline Bolak, Joseph Musial, Betty Pujdowski (2-year terms), Frank Mycek, Thomas Ubik, and Fred Wolski (1-year terms). While this rejuvenation of the Christian mind and heart continued, the parish undertook its own renovation project, specifically the building of a new parish hall. As early as 1965, this idea had been discussed. That year both the Rosary Society and PWA donated proceeds from their socials for the purpose. Enthusiasm became uncertain during the illness of Father Tompor but was rekindled in May, 1967, when Father Wypijewski established an Activities Building Memorial Fund. By October of that year plans were formulated for a new parish facility to be erected on the site of the existing parish hall and surrounding area. In April, 1968, the parish hall which had served the community for almost forty years was razed. Contracts were signed the following month but construction was postponed due to various trade union strikes. The cost of this gymnasium-sized building, together with some school modernization, was estimated at $225,000. Construction began in June, 1968. The entire project took almost a year and was filled with incon- veniences. Lacking the traditional stage for a backdrop, the eight grade Class of 1968 was photo- graphed in a classroom. Organizations also held their meetings in the school. Father Wypijewski grew concerned that delays in the renovations would cause problems when school reopened in the fall. Fortunately this phase of construction was completed in time and the schoolchildren enthu- siastically aided the fundraising through bake sales, paper drives, candy sales, seed sales, a school newspaper, and a kindergarten program. The building was near completion when the PTG held a meeting there on April 27, 1969. Martin Orlowski had designed a cross to hang over the new stage. Finally dedication ceremonies for the new building was observed on September 21 after the 9:00 Mass. An Open House of the hall and school facilities lasted until 2 pm. The cost of the entire project amounted to $338,025. Scouting continued to be "alive and well." Girl Scout troops 2108 and 757 were reorganized in 1964 by Maxine Henry, Mary Ann Shepherd, and Mary Kaza. The girls enjoyed camping at Ivory Farms and Camp Dearborn. That same year Mrs. Kosko, and Mrs. Slomba reorganized the Brownies. Troop leaders in years following were Mrs. Wisk, Elizabeth Voltattorni, and Mrs. Williamson. Parish Boy Scouts won distinguished awards. On January 19, 1964, fourteen parish cub scouts 19 earned the "Parvuli Dei" award: James Cipollone, Ralph Clevenger, Richard Godzialski, Thomas Koch, Mark Misko, Gregory Ozimek, Frank Ricci, Edward Riley, Christopher Rzonca, Leo Sherling, Mitchell Suchyta, David Szabla, Robert Szchechura, and Dennis Voltattorni. By next year Cubmaster Phil Voltattorni could boast of eight more scouts receiving the award: Michael Addison, Patrick Berna, Erick Giovanni, Robert Henry, David Kozicki, Richard Kiwak, Michael Sobczak, and Tom Teely. In 1966, those of Polish ancestry grew aware of their heritage through the Polish Millenium. This event commemorated the 1000th Anniversary of Poland's conversion to Christianity. By the baptism of Mieszko I of Poland and his royal household in 966, Poland was recognized by Christian Europe as a nation. Polish societies in the parish planned ahead for this event. In 1964, PNA Group 2525 sponsored the Alliance Dancers, a group of school age children learning both folk and contemporary dance. Their first recital was held May 8, 1964, in the parish hall. Polish Language classes began in the school October, 1964, and held a pageant play that Christmas. On May 3, 1966, the traditional day of Poland's uirth, the parish held a novena. A diocesan ob- servance of the Millenium occurred later in the year on September 4 in Detroit. Bishop Rubin of Poland dedicated a monument at Washington Boulevard. A Mass was celebrated at Cobo Hall, followed by a banquet. In September, 1969, another Polish visitor arrived in Detroit. The parish bulletin chronicled the visit of a certain Cardinal Wojtyla of Krakow who was on an American tour "to thank the American Poles for their great help extended the Church in Poland during the most critical years in its history." Along with a biographical sketch of this distinguished visitor, the parish bulletin mentioned that he would be in Detroit on September 22 and at a banquet at Orchard Lake the next day. It is not known how many parishioners attended the function nor how many paid attention to the bulletin article. Few could foresee that this foreign guest would one day become Pope John Paul II. Nevertheless, the Cardinal sent a thank-you letter to his Detroit hosts (in Polish); Honored Reverend Father, After arriving in Rome I wished to convey to the reverend pastor my great joy surrounding our meeting in Detroit. I thank you for the promise of daily prayers for the Church in Poland — I also express my deep gratitude for the monetary gift received to your venerable pastor and the wonderful people of your parish. Both gifts will help the needy Church of Poland. Wishing you all the heartfelt blessings of God. Karol Cardinal Wojtyla St. Barbara School held its first annual Clean-Up parade on May 20, 1966. Mayor Hubbard of Dearborn was present at the event initiated by Father Wypijewski and Sister M. Georgia. Floats, costumed students, and bicycles followed a route down Colson to Hartwell to Ruby and back to the school on Calhoun. Spectators that first year saw a Miss St. Barbara Clean-Up Queen, baton twirlers, a Suzie Spotless, a wheelbarrow fleet, carpenters, painters, flowers, "The Man from Trash", and Batman.

20 Following the parade an assembly was held. Student Michael Guido opened the program with his "Clean-Up Song." After speeches by the mayor, pastor, and City dignitaries, the seventh grade girls closed the program with a "Clean-Up A'Go-Go" song. No matter the degree of confusion within the parish — over renewal, the new "mini fashions," or whether we should go to the moon — greater turmoil existed beyond our community. The Vietnam War raged in Southeast Asia. The parish bulletin requested prayers for the safe return of young parishioners fighting in this controversial conflict. Of the many young men from Dearborn who died in combat, Robert J. Bonnici and Robert Nozewski were from this parish. As a memorial for their son, Mr. & Mrs. Bernard Nozewski offered to have a clock installed in the choir loft of the church (see article). Death sadly shrouded the community several times during that decade. On July 9, 1968, Father Bro- nius Dagilis, a weekend helper for eleven years, lost his life in a fiery crash on the Ford Expressway when his car collided with a gasoline truck. The following year, Father Tompor died on December 21, 1969. To the very end there were those who remembered the retired pastor and were touched by his life. Early on the day he died, St. Barbara's seventh graders Sue Ashenbrenner, Karen Koch, Mary Gazarek, Denise Chmielewski, Sandra Larken, Maureen McMaster, Nancy Schepis, Anna Stachura, and Debbie Stuart were singing Christmas carols for the elderly at Carmel Hall and visited shortly with Father Tompor. When they later learned of his death, the girls went caroling in the neighborhood. The money they collected went for masses in his memory. A wake was held at the parish rectory on December 22. The next day the body of the former pastor lay in state in the church until the hour of services on Christmas Eve. John Cardinal Dearden officiated at the "white" funderal mass. Msgr. Alexander Cendrowski, a close friend and classmate of Father Tompor, gave the eulogy. Pallbearers Frank Gach, Frank Gruska, Chester Janeczko, Joseph Musial, Frank Padzieski, and Joseph Wach accompanied the coffin from the rectory while Stephen Dobkowski, Chester Janeczko, Joseph Musial, Albert Muto, Albert Nolan, and Edward Schmidlin assisted at the funeral. Burial followed at Holy Sepulcher Cemetery. In October, 1971, Father Grzelak was transferred and replaced by the Reverend Henry Waraksa. That same year a convent garage was built and the adjacent lots were paved. The parish also acquired a new organ, a Rodgers 990, dedicated on November 21. A recital followed, performed by Eric Franker. In 1973, a library room was constructed at the northeast corner of the school through the carpentry efforts of Marty Orlowski, Marty Orlowski, Jr., and Joseph Wach. Later that year, Father Waraksa was transferred. It was a decade when, for better or worse, society "did its own thing." Many parishioners did. Personal accomplishments and honors seem endless: In 1964, Virginia Gruska was elected First Vice-President of the Wayne West Central Deanery of the Council of Catholic Women. That same year, Ford Motor Company named A1 Stadnik "Citizen of the Year." In 1967, artist Joseph Mark- iewicz donated three oil paintings ("the Good Shepherd," "Head of Christ," and "Easter Lilies") to the rectory. Marcelline Sattler was approved as a non-voting member to the World Congress of the Lay Apostolate in Rome, that October. Student Jim Nowak was a National Merit Scholarship 21 winner in 1968 while Susan Jagniszak won a PLAV contest for the essay "How I would improve our government." That same year the CYO presented Maxine Henry with the Ed Crowe Award. Pauline Kedziorek became parish sacristan in 1969 (and still is!). Earl Wendt painted a portrait of Cardinal Dearden for the rectory in 1970. On May 20 of that year, a testimonial dinner was held for Coach Ed Gadulka. For her outstanding service to Catholic Girl Scouts, Arcoline Trotto received the St. Anne Medal. In 1973, the Polish Activities League proclaimed Josephine Dobkowski "Sweetheart of the Year" for her devoted service of over twenty years. The pastor was not overlooked. On September 27, 1973, Mayor Orville L. Hubbard appointed Fa- ther Wypijewski to the City Beautiful Commission. The pastor had impressed the mayor at Arbor Day and Clean-Up parade assemblies with his view that "fighting litter is everyone's business and responsibility." He was the first clergyman appointed to the Commission. Throughout the decade there had been much excitement and chaos, yet equalized by many accomplishments. There was cause to celebrate as the parish entered its fiftieth year.