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We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin September 24, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this 25^th Sunday of Ordinary Time and the last Sunday in September, we honor all priests on Priesthood Sunday, a Vatican backed worldwide event.  We are thankful for all the priests who have served San Antonio Italian Church since its founding in 1922.  Without them and their dedicated service to those Immigrant Italians who settled in the Lick Run area of South Fairmount, we would not be here today, Mass would not be offered, and the Sacraments would not have been celebrated.  Those early priests kept generations of our family members practicing their faith as they were Baptized, Confirmed, Married, and the final celebration of life, their Funeral.  Our parishioners have wonderful memories of those priests who served their families, and we will never forget the roster of Priests who have aided us in keeping our church alive and open.  They are Fr. Matthias Crehan, Fr. Larry Dunham, Fr. Bill Ferris, Fr. Frank Jasper, Fr. Jim Meade, Fr. Mike Savino, and Fr. Ralph Westerhoff.  A prayer for them and all Priests: “Gracious and Loving God, we thank you for your gift of priests Through them, we experience your presence in the sacraments.  Help our priests to be strong in their vocation.  Set their souls on fire with love for your people.  Grant them the wisdom, understanding, and strength they need to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.  Inspire them with the vision of your kingdom.  Give them the words they need to spread the Gospel.  Allow them to experience joy in their ministry.  Help them to become instruments of your divine grace.  We ask this through Christ, who lives and reigns as our Eternal Priest.  AMEN.”  St. John Vianney who is the patron saint of parish priests said “The priesthood is the love of the heart of Jesus.  When you see a priest, think of our Lord Jesus Christ.” 

On Tuesday, September 26^th we honor the feast day of Saints Cosmas and Damian, 3^rd Century Arabian born twin brothers who were Martyred, rather than deny their faith.  They were highly skilled physicians who practiced medicine and performed surgery refusing payment for their services.  They were known for their invention of opopira an oral medication that treated diverse maladies such as paralysis, later used by many 15^ths Century Italian physicians.  Their major shrines are the Convent of the Poor Claires in Madrid and the Basilica of Saints Cosmas and Damian in Rome.  At St. Anthony Parish in Utica, New York, Cosmas and Damian are venerated during their annual pilgrimage that brings thousands to honor them with many generations from the Italian immigrants who settled there among them.   Their festival will start with Masses on Sunday, Blessing of the Sick and   processions throughout the streets of East Utica, New York.  There will be many regional Italian dishes served for the celebration which is considered one of the largest festivals that honor saints in the northeastern United States. 

On Wednesday, September 27^th we honor the works of St. Vincent de Paul, the Occitan French Catholic Priest, dedicated to serving the poor who was known for his compassion, humility, and generosity.  When Vincent was 36, he began bringing food and comfort to the poor families in Paris and soon established the Confraternities of Charity to assist him and to collect funds for missionary projects.  These wealthy women of Paris helped Vincent collect funds to aid victims of war; and to pay the ransom for the release of 1,200 North African slaves.  The work of these women led to the founding of the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul; the charitable organization dedicated to the service of the poor. The Society of St. Vincent de Paul was founded in 1833 by French University students and at present is in 153 countries.  He was born in 1581 died in Paris on September 27, 1660, and was Beatified by Pope Benedict XIII in 1729 and Canonized by Pope Clement in 1737. 

On Thursday, September 28^th, we honor the feast of St. Wenceslaus, who worked to strengthen the Catholic Faith in Bohemia when Catholics were begin purged from public office and churches were being closed.  Born around 907 to a noble family he preferred to become a monk instead of a duke, although he led a life of charitable service and prayer.  When he was assassinated in 935 at the age of 22, by his brother, it was seen as a turning point in the history of Bohemia.   His feast day is a public holiday in the Czech Republic and the major shrine dedicated to him is the St. Vitus Cathedral in Prague.  His helmet and armor are displayed inside the Prague Castle where a rotunda was consecrated to St. Vitus.  In 1994, the TV Film Good King Wenceslas was produced recounting a version of his early life.  Also on Thursday, September 28^th, the Catholic Church celebrates the feast day of Lorenz Ruiz the patron saint of the Philippines.  Born in Manila to a Chinese Father and Filippino mother, he became a member of the Dominic Order always working for the good of the church.   At the age of 42, Lorenzo was falsely accused of a crime and with the aid of Dominican Fathers, sailed to Okinawa where they were imprisoned, transferred to Nagasaki, and tortured to death.  He was beatified in 1981 during the visit of Pope John Paul II’s papal visit to the Philippines, the 1^st Beatification ceremony held outside of the Vatican.  Lorenzo was Canonized in 1987 by Pope John Paul II, becoming the 1^st Filippino Saint.  There is a mosaic of San Lorenzo in the Trinity Dome of Mary’s National Shrine in Washington, D.C.

On Friday, September 29^th, we honor the important role of the Archangels, Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael.  St. Michael the Archangel was referred to as the messenger.  Pope St. Gregory the Great once said “Whenever some act of wondrous powers must be performed. Michael is sent”.  Muslims, Christians, and Jews practice devotion to Michael as a defender and protector of the Catholic Church.    He is the patron saint of emergency medical technicians, police officers, first responders and of Papua, New Guinea.  St. Gabriel the Archangel is seen as God’s Messenger of Good News who was the angel who appeared to St. Joseph in dreams. He is the patron of all messengers, broadcasters, diplomats, postal workers, and all telecommunication personnel.  St. Raphael the Archangel is considered the healing angle as Raphael means “God Heals”.    Raphael is mentioned in the Old Testament story of Tobit where he guides Tobit’s son Tobiah through adventures leading to a happy conclusion. Raphael is the patron saint of travelers and the blind.  The Archangels Michael, Gabriel and Raphael are considered the patrons of the country of Germany.

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin September 17, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this 24th Sunday of Ordinary Time,  we remind everyone the date of our Annual Spaghetti Dinner.  Our 87th year of serving the traditional Italian Dinner San Antonio Church has been noted for will be on Sunday, October 8th from 11:30 AM-7:00 PM.   What started as a fundraiser by our newly formed San Antonio Church Choir in 1936, has grown to serve not only dine in customers but offer curb side take out dinners as well.  The 3rd, 4th, and 5th generations of our church members will be serving the next generations of west side families who are now   loyal supporters of San Antonio Church.   We are now taking reservations and asking for help as many shifts will be needed to fill.   There is sign- up sheets in the Hall after our 9:00 AM Mass every Sunday concerning volunteering, donations for drinks desserts, or to be part of the clean -up crew.  We are all humbled and grateful to walk in the shoes of our ancestors as we anticipate another year to carry on this tradition.  The contacts for those parishioners who stepped up to lead this event are Dave Sabatelli 513-405-6444 to place a Curb Side Carry Out Order, Jimmy Capano 513- 364-8301 to place a Dine In reservation, Connie Dalessandro 513-846-1502 to donate wine or soft drinks and to Volunteer for the Dinner.   Harry Panaro 513-260-3371 is the person in charge of the 2023 Place Mat used at the dinner and is now selling ad spots for your business or family milestone.  Please consider joining the San Antonio Church Crew for our 87th Spaghetti Dinner.  We welcome all new volunteers to become a big part of the next chapter in our church’s history.   

On this 3rd Sunday in September, we celebrate all those Catholics who not only teach but share the Church’s teaching on Catechetical Sunday.  The initiative for this Sunday   started in 1935 to recognize not only the gift volunteers give to their parish communities but to highlight all those who have worked educating children.  At that time, the Vatican published a document stressing the importance of catechists and in 1971, USCCB developed published materials to help parishes honor those who serve as catechists on Catechetical Sunday.  The theme chosen by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops for 2023 is from Matthew 11:28, “Come to me all you who labor and are burdened”.   We thank all those dedicated faithful who have committed to teach the Catholic Faith and share the Church’s teachings.  Within the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, many dedicated volunteers answer the call to serve in youth ministry, RICA, and other adult programs as they help parishioners develop a deeper relationship with God and the Church. 

On September 21st, we observe the International Day of Peace,  dedicated to world peace and the absence of war, a United Nations Sanctioned Holiday.   This day is devoted to strengthening the ideals of peace with the UN General Assembly’s theme Actions for Peace: Our Ambitions for the #GlobalGoals.  To start this day, the United Nations Peace Bell will be rung at the U.N. Headquarters in New York.  The Peace Bell was donated by the United Nations Association of Japan on June 8, 1954.  It has become a tradition to ring the bell twice a year, on the 1st day of Spring and on September 21st, the International Day of Peace.  Ringing the Bell at the Vernal Equinox (Spring) started in 1971 when then Secretary General, U Thant signed the Earth day Declaration. The World Peace Bell was tolled on other occasions and in 1966, it was rung to commemorate the 1st Anniversary of Pope Paul Vi visit to the United Nations and in 2004 on the 10th Anniversary to observe the International Day of Reflection to recall the Genocide that took place in Rwanda.   There are more than 20 Peace Bells that have been placed in 16 countries.  The World Peace Bells are made of melted down coins donated from countries around the world.  One of the World Peace Bells is located at 425 York Street in Newport, Kentucky.   This bell was cast in France and then sent to the United States, arriving at the port of New Orleans, Louisiana after the month and a half journey.    The bell then was put on a barge traveling up the Mississippi and Ohio Rivers making 14 stops along the way until it’s final destination in Kentucky on the August 1, 1999.  The arrival of the Peace Bell coincided with the Tall Stacks Festival that was held along the Cincinnati, Covington, and Newport section of the Ohio River.  The 66,000 lb. World Peace Bell was formally dedicated on December 31, 1999.

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin September 10, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this 23^rd Sunday of Ordinary Time we remember how important the bond is that forms between grandparents and grandchildren, as we celebrate Grandparents’ Day.  Senator Jennings Randolph along with other senators introduced a joint resolution requesting the president issue an annual proclamation.  This annual proclamation was proposed to designate the first Sunday of September after Labor Day as National Grandparents’ Day.  The proclamation was passed by Congress and on August 3, 1978, the then President, Jimmy Carter signed the annual proclamation “To honor Grandparents, to give Grandparents an opportunity to show love for their children’s children and to help children become aware of strength, information and guidance older people can offer.”  The National Grandparents’ Day Council of Chula Vista, California announced in 2004 an official song “A Song for Grandma and Grandpa” by Johnny Prill would become the official song of the United States Grandparents’ Holiday.  The National Grandparents’ Day Council presented Mr. Prill an award in recognition for his composition. 

On Monday September 11, 2023, we remember 9/11 and the 4 coordinated attacks on our country, 22 years ago.  Those attacks caused the deaths of 2,996 victims with thousands injured and the destruction that would affect many families forever.  Our country will always remember where we were on that morning and grieve those who lost their lives on that fateful day.  Our church community remembers that day and the time 8:46AM this Monday, as we pray for those lost and the family members they left behind.

On Tuesday, September 12^th we honor the feast of the Most Holy Name of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  This feast day began in 1513 as a local celebration in Cuenca, Spain on the date of September 15^th.  It was moved by Pope Sixtus V to September 17^th with the feast spreading throughout the Kingdom of Naples.  The faithful at that time started asking the Blessed Virgin Mary for protection during wars.  When the Polish King, John Sobieski asked the Blessed Virgin Mary to aid his troops before the Battle of Vienna and after being the victor, Pope Innocent XI then added the feast to the Roman calendar.  In 1911, Pope Pius X restored the celebration to a prominent position when it was moved to September 12^th.  By 1969 it was considered a duplication of the September 8^th Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary, but still recognized as a celebration of the Roman Rite and in 2002, Pope John Paul II then restored the celebration to the General Calendar. Those who promote the veneration of the Holy Name of Mary are Saint Anthony of Padua, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux, and Saint Alphonsus Maria de Liguori.  As a sign of honor and entrustment to Mary, religious orders such as the Cistercians and Servites as a custom give each member “Mary” as a part of his or her name.  In Rome, one of the twin churches at the Forum of Trajan is dedicated to the Name of Mary “Santissima Nome di Maria al Foro Traiano”.  The name of Mary is venerated because it belongs to the Mother of God with parishes and schools dedicated in her honor.

On September 13, 2023, we celebrate the feast of St. John Chrysostom Archbishop of Constantinople in 397 who worked for the common good of the church and founded hospitals in Constantinople.  The Anglicized version of Chrysostom in Greek means golden mouthed denoting his celebrated eloquence.  There are 700 sermons and 246 letters, biblical commentaries, moral discourses, and theological treaties written by him.  In 1908, Pope Pius X named St. John the patron of preachers.  His preaching is part of the lasting legacy of St. Johns influence on Christian Liturgy.  Christian clerics refer to him as “one of the most eloquent preachers who ever since apostolic times have brought to men the divine tidings of truth and love”.  His widely used editions of St. John Chrysostom’s works are available in Greek, Latin, English, and French.  He was born in 347 and died in 407 at the age of 58.  His last words were: “Glory be to God for all things”. 

On Thursday September 14^th, we honor the Exaltation of the Holy Cross, the liturgical festival of the Exaltation (triumph) of the Holy Cross that can be traced to two historical occurrences in the City of Jerusalem.  The first was the dedication of the Constantinian Basilica of the Holy Sepulcher on this date in the 4^th Century.  The other event was the recovery of the True Cross from the Persians in the 7^th Century which prompted the declaration of this special feast.  The history of this feast began in Constantinople where the custom was to carry the relic of the True Cross through the streets of the city to invoke God’s blessing for the protection from sickness.  The Roman Catholic, Orthodox, and some Anglican Churches have a formal Adoration of the Cross during services on Good Friday. 

On Friday, September 15, we honor Our Lady of Sorrows, a popular religious theme, and Catholic Devotion to the Virgin Mary.  The Seven Sorrows of Mary portray her sorrow in tears with seven swords piercing her heart that depict the events in the life of Mary.  The Seven Sorrows are:  1. The Prophecy of Simeon, 2. The Flight into Egypt, 3. The Loss of the Child Jesus in the Temple of Jerusalem, 4. Mary meeting Jesus on the Via Dolorosa, the 4^th Station of the Cross, not found in the Bible, 5. The Crucifixion of Jesus on Mount Calvary, 6. Jesus’ Descent from the Cross, 7. The Burial of Jesus by Jospeh of Arimathea.  Over the centuries, devotions were started from the meditation on Mary’s Sorrows with the three most common devotions to Our Lady of Sorrows are, the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows, the Black Scapular of the Seven Dolours of Mary, and the Novena to Our Sorrowful Mother.  The Feast of Our Lady of Sorrows became popular in the 12^th Century after the writings of the Benedictine Monks around the 11^th Century.  In 1482, the feast was officially placed in the Roman Missile under the title of Our Lady of Compassion showing the great love our Blessed Mother displayed in suffering with her Son.   Our Lady of Sorrows (Mater Dolorosa) is the subject of some well-known works of Catholic Marian art and in the book “The Seven Sorrows of Mary” by Joel Giallanza published by Ave Maria Press.  Our Lady of Sorrows is the Patron Saint country of Poland, the state of Mississippi and the churches dedicated to her are:  Our Lady of Sorrows Basilica in Chicago, St. Mary of Sorrows in Virginia, Our Lady of Sorrows Church in Hawaii, Our Lady of Sorrows Church in California, Shrine of Our Lady of Sorrows in Missouri, and in Molise, Italy the Basilica Santuario di Maria Santissima Addolorata.  On the 2^nd Sunday of September in the Carroll Gardens neighborhood of Brooklyn, New York the annual procession will be held with the statue of Our Lady of Sorrows.  This tradition started in the 1940’s with the Italian immigrants from Mola di Bari celebrating the feast of their patron saint.

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin September 3, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this 22^nd Sunday of Ordinary Time, we send condolences to the LaRosa family on the passing of two of their family members.   They lost Peter Schmidt husband of Jean Schmidt and beloved father to Emilie (Schmidt) LaRosa, father-in-law to Nick, (Grandson of Donald “Buddy” LaRosa) and Grandpa to their children, Michael, and Anthony LaRosa.  Peter passed away on August 20^th at the age of 73.   Peter was buried on August 25, 2023, from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Church.  We also send our heartfelt sympathies to the LaRosa and Ciambarella Families on the loss of Joseph Ciambarella who passed away suddenly on August 24, 2023, at the age of 70.   Joseph “Joe” was the much-loved husband to Denise (LaRosa) Ciambarella and cherished father to the late Jenna Ciambarella and Nicole (Ciambarella) Staley, son-in-law, Todd Staley and proud Papa to grandsons, Elton, Lennon, and Simon Staley.    Joseph “Joe” was the son of the late Joseph Sr. (1919-1990) and Mary (Nesi) Ciambarella and son-in-law to Donald “Buddy” and the late Jo Ann (Augustine) LaRosa.  Joe also leaves his two sisters Lena (Denny) Doppes, Patty (Tom)Martin, and brothers-in-law, Michael (Lisa), Mark (Cara), Tommy (Maria) LaRosa and many nieces and nephews.  Always a West Sider, Joseph “Joe” kept up with those many friends he grew up with, especially those from the Ramundo Family who will mourn his passing.   Please keep all these grieving family members in your daily prayers at this very difficult time.                                        

On Monday, September 4^th we Commemorate the Federal Holiday created by the labor movement when the average American worked 12 hours days during the long 7-day work week.  At that time most workers toiled in mills, factories and mines in dire conditions that were unsafe for the recent immigrants who were not allowed breaks or sanitary facilities. The first Labor Day was celebrated in New York City on September 5, 1882, and by 1885 was celebrated in industrial centers throughout the country.  In 1887, the state of Oregon became the 1^st state to officially recognize Labor Day as a holiday.  When it became a Federal Holiday in 1894, there were already 30 states celebrating Labor Day.  On September 4^th we honor the American laborer and the contributions and achievements of all those past and present American workers who helped build our great country and are big a part of our country’s history.  We remember all those past generations of men from our families who toiled and sacrificed at menial jobs to feed their families and worked to help establish prosperity and the well- being for a better community in their new home. 

On Tuesday, September 5^th, we commemorate the International Day of Charity on the anniversary of the death of Mother Teresa of Calcutta who died on September 5, 1997, at the age of 87.  Mother Teresa was awarded the Nobel Peace Prize in 1979 with her work in the struggle to overcome poverty and distress which she felt was a threat to peace.  The International Day of Charity was established by the United Nations General Assembly in 2012 to raise awareness to call all of us to become involved in charitable, philanthropic, and volunteer organizations.   The date for this annual event was chosen to honor Mother Teresa of Calcutta and to never forget her dedication to those in need.  The United Nations General Assembly adopted a resolution which was co-sponsored by 44 Un Member States that represented all 5 Regional Groups of the United Nations.  These Member States commemorate the International Day of Charity by encouraging charity through education and public awareness activities.  This day is a call for us to give back and by doing so find causes we can promote.   By 2014, there were International Day of Charity fundraisers and events scheduled around the world to fund charities, volunteer, or attend a charity event.   Within the Archdiocese of Cincinnati, the Catholic Church provides social services and other ministries that promotes the goodness that leads to peace, joy for all of us to lead a full life.      

On Thursday, September 8^th we celebrate the Christian Feast day of the birth of Mary, nine months after the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception on December 8^th.  The Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary is celebrated in Western Christianity and in some of the Eastern Churches. The legend states that St. Maurilius from the Diocese of Angers in France instituted the feast around 430.  The earliest documentation that commemorates Marymas (Birth of the Virgin Mary) originates from a hymn written in the 6^th Century taken from the Georgian Chant book of Jerusalem.  The first Liturgical celebration of this feast is connected to the Marian Basilica built in the 5^th Century on the site known as Shepherd’s Pool and thought to be the home of Marys’ parents.  The Basilica Sanctae Mariae ubi nata est was dedicated in the 6^th Century and is now called the Church of Saint Anne in Jerusalem.  Under the Marian title, the devotion to Mary is widely celebrated in cultures around the globe with various prayers and hymns, especially the Novena in Honor of the Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary.  In France, Marymas is known as “Our Lady of the Grape Harvest” for those winegrowers who bring their best grapes for a blessing from the local church.  At the blessing, there will be a statue of Mary with the best of the harvest placed in her hands and around her feet.  A special blessing will be said before the meal with some dishes prepared with the grapes from the harvest.  In Goa, India on the feast of Mary’s Nativity, the family celebration called Monti Fest, this thanksgiving festival celebrates the harvest of new crops and blessing of the grain.  Flowers will be adorned on the statue of Mary; and before lunch is served, the priest will bless a branch of grain that will be added to the dishes being served.   There are Cathedrals dedicated to the Nativity of the Virgin Mary in Milan, Italy, Juneau, Alaska, and Biloxi, Mississippi.  In Lorain, Ohio the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish was founded in 1898 to serve the Polish American Community; and in High Hill, Texas the historic church was dedicated to Mary was built in 1906.

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin August 27, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this 21^st Sunday in Ordinary Time we thank all those parishioners from Holy Family and San Antonio who came together for our annual church picnic on August the 13^th.  We appreciate all those who organized the afternoon, especially Dave Sabatelli who was in charge of the event. 

On Monday August 28^th we celebrate the feast of Augustine of Hippo, (354-430), born in Algeria to parents Monica (St. Monica) and Patricius and two siblings who were fluent in Latin.  He who went on to form a monastic community in Africa before becoming the Bishop of Hippo in 396 and is viewed as one of the most important Church Fathers during the Patristic Period of the Latin Church.  He is the Patron of the Augustinians and is recognized and celebrated in the Catholic, Eastern orthodox, Lutheran, and Anglican Communion Churches.  During his life, Augustine dominated the Christian world by writing against heretics, publishing sermons and composed two great works that went on to inspire Christians ever since.  He was considered one of the most prolific Latin authors whose works consist of more than one hundred separate titles.   The first of his works is an autobiography, Confession to an interesting read full of self-knowledge and amazing honesty.  The second was The City of God which took thirteen years to write the total philosophy of history showing the fundamental contrast between Christianity and the world.  Augustine imagined the Church as a spiritual City of God, distinct from the Earthly City.  Protestants, especially Calvinists and Lutherans consider Augustine one of the theological Father of the Protestant Reformation for his writings on salvation and divine grace.  Martin Luther, who was a member of the Order of Augustinian Eremites from 1505-1521 held him in preeminence among the early Church fathers.  He was Canonized in 1298 by Pope Boniface VIII and is considered the patron saint of printers, theologians, brewers and is invoked for sore eyes.    Words of wisdom from St. Augustine “Pray as though everything depends on God.  Work as though everything depends on you.”

On Tuesday August 29^th, we honor The Passion of Saint John the Baptist, born in the hill country about five miles west of Jerusalem.  John’s mission was to precede Jesus “in the spirit and power of Elijah to turn the hearts of fathers toward children and the disobedient to the understanding of the righteous, to prepare people fit for the Lord”.  During the years between 27-29, John would receive inspiration from God while in the Judean desert and then started to gather the disciples who he would teach and ask to repent and then Baptize with water.  John called on Tax Collectors, Soldiers, Religious Leaders, Townspeople and Herod to repent with many responding to his plea.  The feast of St. John is one of the oldest within the Catholic Church for the Memorial of the Beheading of Saint John the Baptist.  John the Baptist made the commitment to selflessly give himself to the mission he received.  Two of the Gospels narrate the story of John’s death:  Matthew 14:1-12 and Mark: 6:14-29.   “Saint John the Baptist, you were given a holy mission and sanctified in the womb of your mother in preparation for that mission.  You never deviated from your calling and always pointed the way to Christ, the savior of all.  Please pray for me, that I will have the same courage you had and the resolve to fulfill my duties, no matter the cost.  Saint John the Baptist, pray for me. Jesus, I trust in You.  

On Friday September 1^st we celebrate the World day of Prayer for the care of Creation that begins the Ecumenical Season of creation that commences on October 4^th, the feast of St. Francis of Assisi. The Synod (an assembly of Bishops chosen throughout the world with the task of meeting for deliberation when requested by the Pope who is president of the synod) on Synodality will open its first session in October with the Pope inviting all People of God to an immersive journey of dialogue and hopefully conversion.  Pope Francis established the first World day of Prayer for the Care of Creation in 2015 to encourage the faithful around the world to pray for our home that God created for all of us.  “With the help of God’s grace, Pope Francis says, “Let us adopt lifestyles marked by less waste and unnecessary consumption, especially where the processes of production are toxic and unsustainable.” The theme for this celebration on September 1, 2023 “Let Justice and Peace Flow”, that helps Catholics to fully live the Season of Creation together with Christians of other denominations.  The theme was inspired by the Prophet Amos who said, “Let justice flow on like a river, righteousness like a never-falling stream”.  In his appeal the Pope states “Like a river basin with its many tiny and large tributaries, the Church is a communion of countless local Churches, religious communities and associations that draw from the same shared waters.  Each source adds its unique and irreplaceable contribution, until all flow together into the vast ocean of God’s loving Mercy.”   In his closing statement, he said “let us be mindful as we can about our habits and economic decisions so that all can thrive-our fellow men and women wherever they may be, and future generations as well.”

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin August 20, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On Friday August 18^th San Antonio Church held a funeral Mass for Vincent “Butch” Accurso beloved husband of the late Juanita Grischy Accurso (1942-2023) who passed away February of this year.  Vincent leaves four children:  Lisa, Angela, Kathrin, and Anthony and nine grandchildren:  Lauren, Megan, Hannah, Andrew, Allie, Annie, AJ, Luken, and Bodie.  Father Jim Meade officiated.  Our church community sends prayers and condolences to the Accurso, Grischy, Win, Garrison, Rooney, and Einhaus families.

On this 20^th Sunday of Ordinary Time, San Antonio Church welcomes members of the Kafiti, Trotta, Mazzie and Reenan Families for the Baptism of Mila Rose Kafiti after our 9:00 Am Mass.  She was born on June 29, 2023, and is the daughter of Lindsay (Trotta) and Bill Kafiti and joins brother Lucas Kafiti who was also Baptized at San Antonio Church on May 20, 2021, by Fr. Westerhoff.  The Trotta Family has ties to many old established Italian Families with Lindsay’s great- great- Grandfather Anthony Frank Trotta’s marriage to Angelina Beratta.  Lindsay’s great grandfather Francisco Anthony Trotta married into the Ramundo family with his union to Theresa Ramundo and from the Mazzie Family with the union of Frank Mazzie, Lindsays Great Grandfather to her Great Grandmother, Elvira-Seta Mazzie.  The Trotta Family has always been a presence at San Antonio Church and our parishioners all remember Mila Rose’s Great Grandfather, Joseph “Joe” Trotta who attended our church until his passing in 2019 at the age of 99 and his late wife, Mila Rose’s Great Grandmother, the late Constantine (Connie) A. (Mazzie) Trotta who passed away in 1986.  Lindsay’s parents and Mila Rose Kafiti’s Grandparents are David Stephen and Kimberly Philomena Reenan-Trotta who were married at San Antonio Church in 1980 by Fr. Elliot and a few years later would Baptized Mila’s mom Lindsay Maureen Trotta Kafiti in 1984 by Fr. Senn.  The God parents for Mila are Kelly and Eric Kroger who are also sponsors for older brother Lucas Kafiti.  Our church community sends their prayers and congratulations on this new addition to the Kafiti Family and this milestone event for all the members of their large extended family. 

On Monday, August 21^st we celebrate the feast day of Pope Pius X (Giuseppe Melchiorre Sarto (1835-1914) known for promoting liturgical reform while head of the Catholic Church from 1903 until his death in 1914.  Pope Pius X lowered the age for those making their First Communion and strongly encouraged receiving Holy Communion regularly.  He was devoted to the Blessed Virgin Mary and gave sermons from the pulpit which was a rare practice at that time.  In 1908 when the earthquake hit Messina, Pope Pius X took in those refugees devasted by the destruction into the Apostolic Palace before the Italian Government steeped in to aid them.  He was noted for his humility and simplicity waking at 4:00 AM before saying Mass at 6:00 AM, at his desk by 8:00 AM with statues of the saints he was beatified during his Papacy – John Vanney and Joan of Arc nearby.  He conducted an audience with pilgrims at noon, lunch at 1:00 PM and returning to work until dining at 9:00 PM at the end of the day.  Pope Pius X was immensely popular with Catholics in America with fifteen new dioceses created in the Unted States during his tenure.  He also named 2 American Cardinals and was respected and revered, while seen as an ordinary man from a poor family who was raised by God to the Papal Throne.  Pope Pius X died at 1:20 AM on August 20, 1914, shortly after he kissed the little crucifix that was clasped in his hands.  On May 29, 1954, his Canonization ceremony was taped and recorded by NBC and other early television news broadcasters.

On Tuesday, August 22^nd, we celebrate the Queenship of the Blessed Virgin Mary, a feast that was established by Pope Pius XII in 1954.  The Pope stated that Mary deserves the title because she is the Mother of God and is strongly associated as the New Eve with Jesus’ redemptive work and her intercessory power and her preeminent perfection.  As Jesus was to be King of all creation, Mary in dependence on Jesus, Mary was to be Queen of Angles and Men, Queen of Heaven, and Earth. 

On Wednesday, August 23^rd, we honor the feast day of Rose of Lima born, Isabel Flores de Oliva on April 20, 1586, who died on August 24, 1617, at the age of 31.  She was a lay member of the Dominican Order who cared for those poverty stricken throughout the city of Lima, Peru.  She was beatified on May 10, 1667, by Pope Clement IX and was Canonized on April 12, 1671, by Pope Clement X as the 1^st Catholic in the Americas to be declared a Saint.  The 1^st Governor of the state of California donated a plot of land in downtown Sacramento for a park to be named in her honor.  The Fiesta de Santa Rosa is celebrated on the last weekend in August in Dixon, New Mexico and in Maywood, California Saint Rose Church is the largest dedicated to her.  She is considered the patroness of the Americas, the Indigenous people of the Americas and of Lima, Peru.  There are sixty-six churches in the United States dedicated to her.

On Thursday 24^th, we celebrated St. Bartholomew, the Apostle who along with Jude “Thaddeus” is thought to have brought Christianity to Armenia in the first century.  Both Saints are considered the patron saints of the Armenian Apostolic Church. There is a 13^th Century St. Bartholomew Monastery constructed at the site of the martyrdom of Apostle Bartholomew around 69/71 AD in Greater Armenia now part of southeastern Turkey.  It is thought that St. Bartholomew preached the Gospel throughout India before his journey to Greater Armenia.  He is the patron saint of Gambatesa, Italy Florentine cheese merchants, butchers, and leather workers.  In the Church of England, Bartholomew the Apostle is celebrated on August 24^th with a Festival in his honor.    

On Friday August 25^th we honor the feast day of Saint Louis of France (1214-1270) who at his coronation as King of France, Louis IX pledged as an oath to   be true to God, to be the father of his people, and the feudal lord as the King of Peace.  During his reign he brough peace and justice with regulations to reform laws and encouraged written records in court.  His patron was Saint Frances with Louis becoming patron of the Secular Franciscan Order who went on to establish hospitals and would visit the sick; even caring for those with leprosy.  He brought prosperity to France by unifying its people in all levels of society to townspeople, priests, knights, and lords.   Also, on August 25^th we honor Joseph Calasanz (1557-1648) a Spanish Catholic Priest and educator who founded the Pius Schools to provide free education to sons of poor families.  He knew he wanted to be a priest at the age of fourteen as the youngest of eight children.  He attended a college run by Franciscans and would later move to Rome where he resided for 56 years.  Joseph was Beatified on August 7, 1748, by Pope Benedict XIV and Canonized by Pope Clement XIII on July 16, 1767.

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin August 13, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this 19^th Sunday in Ordinary Time, San Antonio Church is excited to announce that the “Sister Blandina Segale: A Cincinnati Saint” won 4 Emmy’s at the 59^th Annual Ohio Valley Regional Emmy Award on Saturday, July 30, 2023, in Columbus, Ohio.  To be eligible, entries were submitted from work by television stations covering cities Athens, Cincinnati, Columbus, Dayton in Ohio and Bowling Green, Lexington, and Louisville in Kentucky and in Indiana, Evansville and Terre Haute.  The National Academy of Television of Arts and Sciences recognizes those in the Arts and Sciences of Television and the documentary highlighting Sr. Blandina Segale, Servant of God, won 4 Emmy’s in the News Special Category.  The Local 12 Team tracked the journey of Sr. Blandina Segale from Cincinnati, Colorado, New Mexico and back to Cincinnati as they filmed her amazing story on location covering every aspect of her tireless good works from the late 1800’s to the early 1900’s.   Our parishioners from San Antonio Church congratulates Patricia McGeever, Bran Dykes, Richard Henry and Bob Herzog on their Emmy’s and the wonderful work they did to honor Sister Blandina Segale and for including our humble church in their special.   They have not only won these regional Emmys, but every other award their special was nominated for.

On Monday, August 14^th we remember St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe, Polish Priest and Conventual Franciscan Friar who died in Auschwitz-Birkenau on August 14, 1941, at the age of forty-seven and is venerated in not only the Catholic Church, but also in the Anglican Communion and Lutheran Churches. He was ordained in 1918 and was strongly opposed to the leftist communist movements.  During World War II the monastery he founded in Niepokalanow sheltered Jewish refugees until it was shut down by German authorities on February 17, 1941.  He was then sent to Pawiak Prison until May 28, 1941, and later transferred to Auschwitz as prisoner number 16670. 

While at Auschwitz, the deputy camp commander Karl Fritzsch chose 10 men to be sent to an undergrown bunker to be starved to death   Maximilian Maria Kolbe who argued with the guards that he was old and useless gave his life when he volunteered to die in place of Franciszek Gajowniczek who cried out “My wife, My Children”  at the German Death camp.    He comforted each one as he was the last to die after being injected with carbolic acid on August 14^th and was cremated on August 15^th, on the Feast of the Assumption.  St. Maximilian was recognized by the Holy See as a Servant of God on May 12, 1955.  He was then Beatified on October 17, 1971, by Pope Paul VI with Holocaust survivor Franciszek Gajowniczek present at both the Beatification and the Canonization Ceremonies by Pope John Paul II on October 10, 1982.   St Maximilian Kolbe was dedicated to the Veneration of the Immaculate Virgin Mary and is known as the Apostle of Consecration to Mary for his work promoting consecration and entrustment to Mary.  He organized the Army of the Immaculate One to work for the conversion of enemies and sinners of the Catholic Church.   St. Maximilian Maria Kolbe will always be remembered as a brilliant scientist, mathematician, and religious journalist.

On Tuesday, August 15^th we celebrate the Assumption of Mary, with the month of August dedicated to her.  The word Assumption derives from the Latin word ASSUMPTIO meaning taking up. The Assumption is defined as a doctrine of the faith on November 1, 1950, by Pope Pius XIII stating that Mary was taken up body and soul into heaven after completion of her earthly life, her dormition (or falling asleep in the Lord) since by reason of her Immaculate Conception, she should not suffer the consequences of Original Sin.  The Church has long held on to the basis of theological reasoning and tradition the implied belief in our Lord’s taking His mother to Himself from the moment of her passage from this life.   Many Catholic areas will celebrate Mary with festivals and parades and in Canada, Assumption Day is called the Fete Nationale of the Acadians where she is their Patron Saint.  

In Italy, the name of the Holiday is called Ferragosto and in the Maltese Islands, the Virgin Assumed in Heaven is their patroness as local churches celebrate her with great solemnity.   On August we celebrate the feast of St. Stephen I of Hungary, the King who worked for the transformation of Hungary into a Christian state throughout his reign.  He was King of Hungary from 1001-1031 and established an Archbishopric, six Bishoprics, and three Benedictine Monasteries with the help of Benedictine Monk, Gerard from the Republic of Venice.  He led the Church in Hungary to be independent from the Archbishops of the Holy Roman Empire and invited foreign priests to Hungary to evangelize his kingdom.  During his reign, Hungary enjoyed a prolonged period of peace and was a preferred route for merchants and pilgrims journeying between Western Europe, the Holy Land and Constantinople.  Stephen 1 of Hungary survived all his children and died at the age of sixty-two on August 15^, 1038, and was laid to rest in his new Basilica, dedicated to the Holy Virgin. 

Next Sunday San Antonio Church will welcome the Trotta and Kafiti Families for a family Baptism on Sunday August 20^th.

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin August 6, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this Sunday we honor the Transfiguration of Jesus. Churches who celebrate the Transfiguration on August 6^th are Syriac Orthodox, Indian Orthodox, Eastern Orthodox, Roman Catholic, Old Catholic, and the Anglican Church.  This feast has existed since the 9^Th Century and during the reign of Pope Callixtus III (1455-1458) who would then establish the Transfiguration as a Universal Feast to be celebrated on August 6^th and to commemorate the lifting of the siege of Belgrade in 1456.  The Transfiguration is one of the five major milestones in the life of Jesus along with the His Baptism, Crucifixion, Resurrection, and the Ascension. Because of its importance, Pope John Paul II in 2002 introduced the “Luminous Mysteries” to include the Transfiguration in the Rosary. 

The Transfiguration is the occasion described in the first three Gospels when the divine glory of Christ was shown in a comprehensive way, according to the gospel, Jesus along with Peter, James, and John would go to a secluded mountain to pray.  For three years the three disciples followed Jesus, seen his miracles, and have done miracles in his name and that is why he took them away from the other disciples.  The three apostles witnessed Jesus’ change in his outward appearance that shone with bright rays of light as Jesus himself became the connection point between Heaven and Earth.  Saint Maximus the Confessor stated that the senses of the Apostles were transfigured to enable them to perceive the true glory of Christ, as Jesus was transfigured before them with his garments turning white as the light.  Paul the Apostle referred to the “Transfiguration of Believers” as Jesus was transfigured before them.

The narrative of the Transfiguration explains the further revelation of the identity of Jesus as the Son of God to some of His Disciples.  It is thought that the spiritual transfiguration of the believer continues to remain a way for achieving a closer union with God, as the transfiguration echoes by Jesus’s teachings; that God is not “the God of the dead, but of the Living.”  The Transfiguration is seen as a preview for us as we anticipate the Resurrection.  Several churches and buildings were named to honor the Transfiguration and since the 3^rd Century, some Christians have named Mount Tabor as the site of the Transfiguration.  It is thought that Mt. Tabor is where Jesus, Peter, James, and John joined together to pray and at present where many pilgrims still make their journey.  Mount Tabor, located in Lower Galilee, Israel is located eleven miles west of the Sea of Galilee and is shaped like a half sphere reaching 1,886 feet. 

The mountain is the location of a Roman Catholic Church of the Franciscan that was built between 1919 and 1924.  The Church of the Transfiguration is built on the peak of Mt. Tabor on the ruins of a 5^th Century Byzantine and Crusader Church from the 12^th Century and is visible from afar.  The entrance of the church welcomes visitors with a rock engraved in ancient Greek next to an engraving of a cross.  Every August 6^th, on the Feast of the Transfiguration, the church will be illuminated by the sunbeams that are reflected off the glass plate on the floor for a memorable display.  For the faithful who visit the site, there is also an Eastern Orthodox Monastery and a Franciscan Cemetery located on Mt. Tabor.

San Antonio Parishioners sends their condolences to the Andriacco and Scriveri families on the passing of Mackenzie Mc Carthy.  She was the daughter of Geri and Chris McCarthy. She passed away on July 27^th at the age of thirty and leaves siblings, Daniel, Mariah, and Megan to mourn their loss.  Her celebration of life service was held on Friday, August 4^th at St. William Church.  Please keep her many family members and friends in your prayers in their time of mourning.  We also mention the passing of Vincent “Vinny” Scriveri from a large family with many connections to South Fairmount and our church. A resident of Saddle Brook, New Jersey he was the son of Audrey and Frank Scriveri and brother to Patty, Francine, Carolyn, Pam, and Frank. Vincent leaves wife Diane, children Tara, Anthony, Victoria, and Grandson Sebastian. 

On Saturday, August 5^th at 10:30 AM, San Antonio Church held a remembrance Mass for Fern (Bonaventura) Webster whose namesake was the late, Fern (Romelli) Roberto.  She passed away on July 26^th and leaves son Michael (Josie) Webster and Grandchildren Hailey, Zachary, and Madison.  She also leaves her beloved sister Estelle (Bonaventure) Ruehl and many nieces, nephews, cousins, and friends.

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin July 23, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this 16^th Sunday in Ordinary Time, we honor the feast of St. Bridget of Sweden born in Upland, Sweden in 1303.   Bridget’s parents were Birger and Ingeborg Peterson, part of the reigning family of the country.  Bridget’s father Birger went to confession every Friday and made many pilgrimages to the Holy Land.    At the age of ten, her mother died leaving her sister Katharine aged nine and a newborn boy Israel to live with their maternal aunt who promoted her devotion to her faith and education.  When Brigit was in her teens she married and over the years, gave birth to 4 daughters and 4 sons with all of them surviving infancy.    In the early years of her marriage, Bridget   was requested by the King of Sweden, Magnus Erickson to serve as a Lady-in-Waiting to the young Queen, Blanche of Namur a position she continued to serve in the Court of the King and Queen of Sweden for 10 years.  At the age of 41 she lost her husband Ulf Gudmarsson when they returned from a pilgrimage to Santiago di Compostela.  Bridget was devastated and during   her long mourning period, spent many long hours in prayer near Ulf’s grave.  She prayed for guidance in the Abbey at Alvastra while seeking God’s intercession and an answer to what her next mission in life would be.  She consulted with her children, took care of her affairs, and soon, her answer was for Bridget   to find   a new religious order for women.  The new order would be seen as a “vineyard full of grapes” with the wine made from those grapes to be used to revive the Church.   In the vision she received, Bridget was told of   plans for the Abbey Church and how it was to be built, of the clothing and of the prayers for the nuns and for the number of priests and chaplains. 

There would be two communities with 60 nuns, 13 priests, 4 deacons, and 8 lay brothers, ruled by an Abbess who represent the Blessed Virgin Mary.  Bridget requested and received a plot of land and a small palace donated by the King of Sweden for the new Monastery.  In 1349, Brigit needed to consult the Pope for his blessing for the new Order and   traveled to Rome, to await his return from France. She resided in Rome all during the Holy Year of 1350 and was finally given the support of Pope Urban V in 1370, never to returning to Sweden.  During the last years of her life, Bridget had visions concerning the future and fought for Church reform.  Bridget went on to direct those in authority to make the changes she had hoped for the Church.  Her one desire to become a nun never happened and she never visited the Convnet Church of the Pax Mariae Abbey in Vadstena, the first Bridgettine Monastery.  None of her desires took form and she died in Rome on July 23, 1373, tired and worn from all her failed plans with her body returned for her burial in the Monastery at Vadstena.   She was Canonized by Pope Boniface IX on October 7, 1391, eighteen years after her death and to some she is thought of as the Patroness of Failures.  Bridget is considered the foundress of the religious Order, the Bridgettines Nuns and Monks primarily for women with permanent chaplains and an Abbess in charge and dedicated to devotion to the Passion of Jesus Christ.  The brothers within the Order had a Confessor General responsible for the spiritual business of both convents.  The Bridgettine Monks are in Amity Oregon at the Monastery of Our Lady of Consolation founded in 1976 and is the only monastery of men since the 1^st of the 19^th century. 

There were Monasteries from Scandinavia although Europe and into Italy.  It expanded into Spain in 1629, Rome in 1911, United States in 1970, and Mexico in 2012.  The Motherhouse where Bridget once lived is located on the Piazza Farnese in Rome.  and at present there is one male convent in the U.S.A.  St. Brigit is the patroness of Sweden and once said “True wisdom, then, consists of un the works, not in great talents which the world admires; for the wise in the world’s estimation are the foolish who set at naught the will of God, and know not how to control their passions.” 

A prayer to St. Brigit: “Brigit, you were a woman of peace.  You brought light into darkness.  You brought hope to the downcast.  May the mantle of your peace cover those who are troubled or anxious, and may peace be firmly rooted in our hearts and our world.  Inspire us to act justly and to revere all God has made.”  In 1999, The Holy Father added 3 women as Patron saints of Europe:  St. Brigit of Sweden, St. Catharine of Siena and St. Edith Stein.

On July 30^th we will celebrate “World Day for Grandparents and Elderly.”  This was established by Pope Francis near the liturgical memorial of Saints Joachim and Anne, the grandparents of Jesus.

We would like to thank everyone who has continued to contribute to the ongoing expenses of San Antonio Church by mailing in their weekly envelopes or by contributing electronically utilizing WeShare . The buttons at the bottom of this post allow you to make online donations directly to the listed account for San Antonio Church.

Weekly Bulletin July 16, 2023

by Terrie Evans

On this 15^th Sunday in ordinary time, our San Antonio Church Community sends its heartfelt condolences to the Ellerhorst and Ruehl Families on the passing of Audrey Rose “Sissy” Ellerhorst at the age of 19 years.  Sissy was the daughter of our parishioner and volunteer Gregg and Lisa (Ruehl) Ellerhorst and beloved sister of Virginia and husband Nick Zieleniewski, Ashley and husband Andrew Curtis and brothers Robert and William Ellerhorst.  Sissy was the cherished Aunt to Jackson, Cameron, Eli, and Ella; leaving behind many Aunts, Uncles, Cousins and her fairy godmother Barbara Graham to mourn her.  She was an inspiration to all and was a proud 2023 graduate of the Margaret B. Rost School.  Audrey Rose “Sissy” Ellerhorst left this earth on June 28, 2023, and her Funeral Mass was held at St. Catharine of Siena Church on July 6^th.  Memorials may be made to the Trisomy 18 Foundation at P.O. Box 320, Flushing, Michigan 48433.  Please keep their extended family members and friends in your prayers. 

We also announce the death of Fern (Bonaventura) Webster on June 28, 2023, at the age of 76.  Being a member of the large Bonaventura family, Fern has connections with many of the families who have attended San Antonio Church.  She was the daughter of Carmine Bonaventura and Carmela Smeraldo who were married in the 2^nd temporary San Antonio Church building on May 23, 1936, with her namesake, Fern (Romelli) Roberto the flower girl witnessing her parents wedding.  Fern (Bonaventura) Webster along with her sister Estelle grew up in the Little Italy section of South Fairmount and were part of the Sunday gatherings held on Biegler Street that united all the aunts, uncles and cousins for the traditional home cooked Italian meal.  She resided in northern Kentucky at the time of her passing and there will be a memorial scheduled sometime in August.  Fern was a proud graduate of Mother of Mercy High School, attended Thomas More College and retired from Cincinnati Bell as a purchasing agent.  She leaves her son Michael, his wife Jose, 3 Grandchildren, her sister Estelle (Bonaventura) Ruehl, nieces Donna, Gina, Linda and their families.  Please keep her many family members in your prayers. 

On June 29, 2023, Joyce (Thinnes) Roberto (1940-2023) passed away at the age of 83.  She was the wife of the late Robert J. Roberto (1942-2016) who was a United Sates Navy Veteran serving on the USS Intrepid.   Joyce was a loving mother to Tina Martini, Debbie Roberto (Lonnie Tingle) Katy Marston (Phil) and Tracy Roberto (Tate Bailey).  Joyce also leaves 11 much loved Grandchildren, cousins Tina, LuAnn, Gina and many family members from the Bomkamp, Schmerber, Blome, Kuhling, Thinnes and Bley families who mourn her passing.  Joyce ‘s mother and father-in-law were the late Mildred (Wittkamp) (1917-2012) and Jospeh Vito Roberto (1914-1987) who along with her sister the late Lorraine (Wittkamp) Roberto (1921-2015) were long time members of San Antonio Church.  Those past generations of the Roberto family who were active members of San Antonio Church were Pasquale Roberto (1892-1953) and Louise( Di Stasi) Roberto (1891-1942)and their family Joseph Roberto (1914-1987),  Anthony H. Roberto (1917-1984), Patrick Roberto (1920-1972), Alexander J. Roberto (1922-1990), Vito Joseph Roberto (1924-2000), Louis Roberto (1928-2000 ), Angelina (Roberto ) Buck (1913-1969) and Rose (Roberto) Baudendistel (1917-1964).  The Roberto family resided in the Upper Lick Run Section of South Fairmount with their homestead located at 2153 Queen City Avenue and were active in the Men’s Club and the St. Ann’s Married Ladies Sodality in the early years of the church.  They were also active in the Felitto Club that united the next generations from the first wave of Italians who settled in Cincinnati from the small towns and villages in southern Italy.  Pease keep the large Roberto and Thinnes family in your prayers.