St Mary High School - Marian Yearbook (Marion, OH)

Page 11 text:

Very Reverend William J. Spickerman, V. F. P A S T O R For almost a quarter of a centurv, Father Spickerman has carried on his shoulders the responsibility of all the people of Saint Mary's parish, both chil- dren and adults. Hundreds of children have been lifted to supernatural living by holy Baptism received from his hands. Their First Holy Communion certifi- cates bear his signature. All through their grade and high school days they have been co-offerers at his daily Sacrifice of the Mass. While having primarily at heart the spiritual interest of his young charges, Father keeps a vigilant eye and a responsive spirit to all their work-a-day activities, sharing their pride of achievement, their worries about a ball game, their excitement in the many drives through the school year. Both parents and children of St. Mary's are sincerely grateful for the inspiring example and priestliness of the pastor of their parish.

Page 10 text:

HIS EXCELLENCY THE MOST REVEREND MICHAEL J. READY BISHOP OF COLUMBUS Michael J. Ready, by the grace of God, Bishop of Columbus, is the fifth shepherd charged with the care of Saint Mary's parish. The parish was organ' ized in the 1820's under the jurisdiction of the Archdiocese of Cincinnati during the reign of the following archbishops: Edward D. Fenwick, John B. Purcell, William H. Elder, Henry Moeller, John T. McNicholas. ln 1944 when the Ohio diocesan areas were redistributed and Bishop Ready was appointed by Rome to the Diocese of Columbus, St. Mary's parish became a part of the Columbus diocese. Bishop Ready was officially installed on January 4, 1945. Being closer geographically to the episcopal seat, the pal rishioners of St. Mary's are privileged to have more frequent visits from their be- loved shepherd. ln 1947 Bishop Ready made his first episcopal visitation.

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ASSISTANT PRIESTS Reverend Hugh Murphy . Father Murphy's kindly smile and friend- liness have endeared him to all the students at St. Mary's. He acts as moderator for the Junior Holy Name Society and the Catholic Youth Organization in the parish. Being the athletic director, Father has a special interest in school sports. Curricular activities include religion classes for Sophomore and Freshman students as well as instruction in the grade school. Reverend Urban Wiggins . The students of St. Mary's have a loyal friend and adviser in the person of Father Wiggins. His sermons and classroom in- structions are equally inspirational. Besides teaching Senior and Junior religion classes, Father is frequently in the confessional for the students' convenience. All school activities and particularly basketball and football games are Father's enthusiastic interests.