Framing Faith

Pennsylvania Magazine

2012-03-08T10:13:00.002-08:00

Pennsylvania Magazine
March/April 2012

Book Reviews
by Publisher Al Holliday

Regional History
Framing Faith - Remembering 10 Catholic Churches

Ten Catholic churches have been closed in the Scranton Diocese in recent years. The author has written historical profiles of them with special notes about the Irish, German, Polish, Italian and Austrian ethnic origins of each. Ivana Pavelka worked with students in the local Arts Engage program to photograph special attributes of each site. The book serves to tell the story of immigrants and their descendants in our northeast area.

FramingFaith.com named PA Live! & NEPABlogs.org's Blog of The Week

2012-01-12T11:42:00.000-08:00

Watch this episode on the PA Live! site: http://pahomepage.com/fulltext?nxd_id=220832

Our PA Live! Blog of the Week this week is Framing Faith ( http://framingfaith.blogspot.com/ ).

Population shifts and financial troubles have made parish consolidation a fact of life for many of the Catholic churches in the Diocese of Scranton. Parish consolidation has left churches that have been parts of the landscape of Northeastern Pennsylvania for a century or more empty, shuttered, dismantled - and in some cases, demolished.

Framing Faith is a blog that spotlights ten parish churches that were closed due to consolidation, and the communities that made up those parishes. It features excerpts and photos from the book of the same name. The images are stunning, and the stories heartbreaking; each parish was a creation of the community, a labor of love often by people of a particular ethnic group that reflected their particular customs and traditions. As the years have passed those ethnic identities have gradually eroded, and the closure of each parish and its associated church has slammed the door on some of those identities forever. Framing Faith provides one last look at these churches, and preserves the stories of the people who worshiped there.

Framing Faith was a project of the Lackawanna Historical Society. The text was written by Sarah Piccini and is accompanied by photos by Ivana Pavelka and four student photographers. The blog serves two functions: It is a promotional tie-in to the book of the same name, but it also serves as a stand-alone showcase of the images and stories that preserve the history of these now-closed churches.

Watch Sarah Piccini's interview on Northeast Current about FRAMING FAITH

2012-01-04T10:32:00.000-08:00

Please vote for Sarah for Best Local Author

2011-11-15T09:45:00.000-08:00

Please vote for Sarah Piccini in the Electric City Best Local Author 2011 poll at:

http://varsity570.upickem.net/engine/Welcome.aspx?contestid=39856

Voting ends Wednesday, November 23 at 11:59 p.m.

PA Anthracite Heritage Museum book signing - October 23

2011-09-28T13:23:00.001-07:00

Framing Faith book signing
with Sarah Piccini

Sunday, October 23, 2011
2 p.m.

PA Anthracite Heritage Museum
RD #1
McDade Park
Bald Mountain Road
Scranton, PA 18504

570-963-4804
AnthraciteMuseum.org

click here for more info

EBOOK GIVEAWAY in celebration of Reviews by Martha's Bookshelf Blogoversary

2011-06-22T11:20:00.000-07:00

ENTER GIVEAWAY HERE: https://spreadsheets.google.com/spreadsheet/embeddedform?formkey=dDZZMFNaSWtvYVBYVS1OUEJLeDVwUWc6MA and go to Reviews by Martha's Bookshelf blog at: http://marthasbookshelf.blogspot.com/2011/06/mbs-blogoversary-spotlight-4c-publisher.html

Giveaway of eBook Framing Faith - Three Winners
OPEN WORLDWIDE - ENDS JULY 15, 2011

Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith by Sarah Piccini

with photography by Ivana Pavelka.

Framing Faith Website

Framing Faith Synopsis:
Framing Faith tells the story of the faith of immigrants and their descendants, spotlighting ten Catholic churches in the Diocese of Scranton that were closed due to restructuring. The churches, SACRED HEART, MAYFIELD; ST. ANTHONY OF PADUA, SCRANTON; ST. JOSEPH, SCRANTON; HOLY FAMILY, SCRANTON; ST. JOHN THE EVANGELIST, SCRANTON; ST. MARY OF THE ASSUMPTION, SCRANTON; ST. MARY CZESTOCHOWA, SCRANTON; ST. JOHN THE BAPTIST, TAYLOR; IMMACULATE CONCEPTION, TAYLOR; AND ST. MICHAEL, OLD FORGE have rich ethnic heritages. They are Polish, Slovak, Italian, German, and Lithuanian parishes with long traditions and deep roots. Each church was founded by immigrant groups who came to the coal fields of the Lackawanna Valley with little more than their faith in God. Their churches served as the center of the community and touchstones of the Old Country. Framing Faith traces their histories from small beginnings through baptisms, weddings and funerals to their final celebrations. Throughout the text are images from each church, visual reminders of what was for many an important part of their lives.

Buy links

Abington Journal

2011-06-20T06:38:00.001-07:00

Abington Journal
June 15, 2011

Book details 10 church closings in the diocese

“Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith,” written by Sarah Piccini with photography by Ivana Pavelka and ARTS Engage!, tells the story of the faith of immigrants and their descendants, spotlighting 10 Catholic churches in the Diocese of Scranton that were closed due to restructuring.

The churches, Sacred Heart, Mayfield; St. Anthony Of Padua, Scranton; St. Joseph, Scranton; Holy Family, Scranton; St. John The Evangelist, Scranton; St. Mary Of The Assumption, Scranton; St. Mary Czestochowa, Scranton; St. John The Baptist, Taylor; Immaculate Conception, Taylor and St. Michael, Old Forge have rich ethnic heritages. They are Polish, Slovak, Italian, German and Lithuanian parishes with long traditions and deep roots. According to the author, each church was founded by immigrant groups who came to the coal fields of the Lackawanna Valley with little more than their faith in God. Their churches served as the center of the community and touchstones of the Old Country. Framing Faith traces their histories from small beginnings through baptisms, weddings and funerals to their final celebrations. Throughout the text are images from each church, visual reminders of what was for many an important part of their lives. Piccini graduated from The University of Scranton with a degree in History and Communications. In 2010, she received a Master’s degree in History focusing on the ethnic and labor history of the Lackawanna Valley. She collaborates with the Lackawanna Historical Society on many projects and programs, and serves the Vice President of the board for the Anthracite Heritage Museum and Iron Furnaces Associates.

Pavelka is a co-founder and co-manager of the photographic gallery Camerawork in Scranton and is a professional photographer who has had solo and group shows. “Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith” is published by Tribute Books. For details, contact 570. 876.2416 or visit www.tribute-books.com

Raising Little Saints review

2011-06-15T06:34:00.001-07:00

Raising Little Saints
June 14, 2011

Catholic Book Blog Tour: Framing Faith by Sarah Piccini [Book Review]
by Erika Drain

The closing of our Parish back in Miami, brought great sadness to our family. It was a our home there, we had great family and friends there, history was made there...we exchanged out vows in our Sacrament of Matrimony, saw our second and third children be Baptized, many fond memories of this small and beautiful little church Near the Miami River in Florida. My only wish was that I had taken more pictures and spent more time with our Pastor asking questions about its rich history.

As I stop to think about Saint Robert Bellarmine's in Miami, I realize that our family is not alone. Across the US, there are many other families like ours, reminicing the closing of their home parishes due to restructuring of the different Diocese and of course, our horrible economy. Yes, sadly, we are not alone!

Which leaves you with this question, "How do you capture the richness of these parishes?" Author Sarah Piccini had an inovative idea, she documented the history of the people of 10 parishes in the Diocese of Scranton in Pennsylvania, then got together with photographer Ivana Pavelka & ARTS Engage and together they captured these ten beautiful parishes in a book entitled, Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith.

Looking through this beautiful book, I can't help but feel like I've been taken back through time to parishes with not just the Catholic history that they embody, but also the history of many immigrants and their families. To see the pictures of the cornerstones and see the dates some as old as 1895, just facisnates me. Some written in Polish for those communities rich with these families starting to make roots in a new country. This book conveys to its reader, the positive impact that Catholic immigrants from Poland, Slovakia, Italy, Germany, and Lithuania made to the Scranton Diocese. What an incredibly thoughtful and beautiful idea it was for these two very talented ladies to have created this lovely book!

It was truly a pleasure reviewing this book. I could not tell you which parish I liked the most because each one had such amazing stories or the place was just heavenly, that I could not pick just one. I might favor Sacred Heart in Mayfield, but I'm partial to anything and anyone with that title ;)

Stained Glass of the Sacred Heart of Jesus,
Sacred Heart Church

Stations of the Cross,
Sacred Heart Church

Immaculate Mary and Sacred Heart of Jesus,
Sacred Heart Church

This book honors all of those parishioners and priests that served and loved and worshipped our Lord in beautiful parishes. I wish more authors and photographers would capture these unforgetable churches throughout the US, as these two lovely ladies have done so well in this great book. If you have ties to the Northern Pennsylvania area or just the fact that you love older traditional churches and their rich history, I recommend that you add Framing Faith to your Catholic library.

Hope you enjoyed this review!
Many Blessings,
Mama Erika

Midwest Book Review

2011-06-03T06:50:00.000-07:00

5 stars

A fine read for those who have a fondness for religious work, very highly recommended

Faith has inspired people to create brilliant things. "Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith" is a blend of art and photography as Sarah Piccini provides the words describing these works as Ivana Pavelka offers photography to display this unique work. Churches for centuries have proved to be community centers and evidence of that still reigns strong in the modern day. "Framing Faith" is a fine read for those who have a fondness for religious work, very highly recommended.

Holy Family Institute review

2011-05-31T06:27:00.001-07:00

Holy Family Institute
May 30, 2011

Framing Faith
by Marlicia Fernandez

When I first decided to read FRAMING FAITH:A pictorial History of Communities of Faith, by: Sarah Piccini (Photos by: Ivan Pavelka and ARTS! Engage), I thought it would be a rather dry listing of a number of Catholic parishes in northeastern Pennsylvania that had been forced to close. While it is indeed a listing of parishes, it is anything but dry. Each parish has its own section and is described in such as wa as to have a distinct personality. The place of these parishes in the lives of those they served is clearly apparent. I’m always saddened when a Catholic Church is forced to close its doors. After reading about these parishes, I was even sadder.

This book will appeal not only to those interested in Catholicism and Catholic Churches in general, but also to those who love history, especially the history of the northeastern region of Pennsylvania. The author is not content to tick off parishes and give the bare facts, but delves into the reasons the parishes came into being, often at great personal sacrifice to the immigrant communities they served. She gives an informative and interesting overview of just how important the church, priests and sisters were to the community and how integrated the parish was in everyday life.

An added bonus for readers is the Catholic tidbits spread throughout the book. There are explanations of devotions, prayers and citations from Catholic documents and the Bible. Other, more secular tidbits include excerpts from local newspapers that really make the information come alive.

As if the well researched material (footnoted in the back of the book) were not enough to hold the reader’s interest, there are dozens of beautiful photographs taken by Ivan Pavelka and ARTS! Engage. These images really drive home how much love went into the building of the various parishes and what pride of place the church held in the hearts and minds of the people.

Framing Faith is historically and religiously accurate and well foot-noted. It held my interest from start to finish. The pictures and textual inserts put what is being read in context for even greater understanding and appreciation. I believe lovers of history in general, and of north-eastern Pennsylvania and Catholic history in particular will enjoy this book immensely. The forward alone, holds a wealth of information that whets the appetite for what is to follow. The book does not fail to deliver on that promise.

I learned so much from reading this Framing Faith, but feel sure I’ll have to revisit its pages if I am to absorb everything that I read the first time around. If you love history or have an interest in the role of Catholicism in the settling of northeastern Pennsylvania, this is a must read. In my humble opinion this book is definitely a keeper.

Buy link:

http://tribute-books.com/shop.html#religion3

Tidbit: St. Joseph (Scranton, PA)

2011-05-27T06:39:00.000-07:00

For his role in the formation of the Catherine McAuley House, a refuge for homeless women and children, St. Joseph's Father Ozalas was named a prelate of honor and elevated to Monsignor by Pope John Paul II.

Whimsically Plucky review

2011-05-26T06:21:00.000-07:00

Whimsically Plucky
May 25, 2011

Framing Faith: a review
by Amanda Luckey

Tribute Books invited me to be a stop on their blog tour of the book Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith. I am doing this without monetary compensation. I received a PDF copy of the book for my review.

Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith is a collaboration of author Sarah Piccini, photographer Ivana Pavekla, and students of ARTS Engage.

As you know if you've read even one of my blog posts, I am not here to write reviews. However, when Tribute Books gave me the synopsis of this particular book, I couldn't say no. Having both Czech and Italian heritage, I was particularly interested in reading about the rich heritage of the churches built when European immigrants came to the area. It was humbling to read of the sacrifices they made: It may be hard to tithe sometimes, particularly when the economy is poor, but these families made so little and still gave so much in order to contribute to the building of these churches.

The book is short (the 96 page PDF included the index, acknowledgements, and title pages) but packed full of full-color photographs. My understanding is that the author recruited students to assist with the photography, which I think is a great concept - it's neat to see different photographers' idea of which pieces of the church should be immortalized.

Quite honestly, many of the architectural styles of the churches photographed didn't "do it" for me. In some cases, the statuary and grounds of the church were lovely, but the altar itself was very plain. This isn't the fault of the book, of course, but my preference is to see a beautiful church with an even more beautiful and ornate altar. Most of the churches, though, are beautiful, and the photographs highlight both the vast sanctuaries and the intricate details of the churches. I was particularly struck by Immaculate Conception, which has an unassuming exterior but gorgeous woodwork inside the sanctuary.

Photography is not my field of expertise by any stretch, but I did find that a few of the photos had awkward composition. Most of the photography is amazing; only a scant few photos had me turning my head and trying to figure out what, exactly, I was looking at.

My favorite highlighted church was St. Mary of Czestochowa in Scranton, Pennsylvania. How sad that the church literally rose from the ashes when the original building was destroyed by fire, only to be closed (presumably permanently) in 2009.

I loved reading the stories of how these churches were founded. I would have liked to know why they closed, but I'm assuming that the goal of the author was to bring these churches to light and focus on their heritage rather than to go into detail on their closing. I'd also love some more information on some of the more ambiguous photographs (why is there an old red phone booth outside Our Lady of Czestochowa?! Maybe it just ended up there somehow, but I imagine a fascinating background story!).

Overall, this book would be a welcome addition to my coffee table, if said table were not already occupied by a half-dozen My Little Pony toys and yesterday's forgotten sippy cup. It was both inspiring and sad to read about the churches that were built with so much love and sacrifice but have since closed. I appreciate the opportunity to review this book and thank Tribute Books for their consideration.

Day by Day in Our World review

2011-05-26T06:19:00.000-07:00

Day by Day in Our World
May 25, 2011

Framing Faith, a review
by Laura O'Neill

Today I have a different type of book to share about with my readers. It isn’t fictional and it is not from the realm of homeschooling material, either.

No, today I am sharing about a book titled Framing Faith by Sarah Piccini with photography by Ivana Pavelka & the ARTS engage students. My best description of this non-fiction work is that of a historical reference. The author and photographers have captured the stories and photos of ten parishes now closed in the Scranton Diocese located in Northeastern Pennsylvania. Their efforts have led to the preservation of this rich history where for many people the church was the hub of their community.

For someone who did not grow up in an older community with strong cultural delineations, I found the numerous Catholic churches in some areas around the Northeastern US to seem strange. Even after I discovered that you might find 2 Catholic churches on the same block because they represented 2 different cultural communities (say Irish and Italian!), I still found it boggled my mind. It is often those types of situations that ultimately end in the ethnic parishes being closed during restructurings from lack of financial or pastoral support (aka no priest to be assigned.)

Before even delving into the specific churches chronicled for this piece, there are introductions by both the photographer Ivana Pavelka who shares about bringing students into the project as well as some background on the church as the center point of immigrant communities as share by the author. She includes a bit about key features of all churches, so that one might see how even a building deemed shabby by one has the same underlying features of the most grandiose churches. This is then rounded out with a history of Scranton and how the community grew.

Then, the reader is treated to a chapter per parish being preserved in this text. Within each chapter is the story of how the specific church came into being along with other stories of its history. Interspersed throughout the text are gorgeous photos of the church itself, including images of the statues or stained glass windows gracing it.

I have to admit a bit of sadness welling up inside as I read through each chapter. Hearing the rich history of each parish and seeing the beauty of each structure made it challenging for me to accept that they are no more. However, it is some comfort to know that someone saw the need to document the history of the ten parishes so they may not be forgotten. And, I will admit it has me yearning to visit older churches again. Sadly, that is not something that can really happen up here in the Anchorage, Alaska area as most structures are not much older than I am. But, I can savor my memories of visiting similar churches while living in Maryland and visiting up in to Delaware.

While this book is preserving the history of the Diocese of Scranton, the stories told and images shared can resonate with any lover of history or architecture. Maybe other dioceses will be inspired to do similar works to preserve their history for future generations. The immigrants who built these churches did so with great sacrifice and deserve to have the fruit of their labor remembered.

Framing Faith retails for $24.95 in paperback and is published by Tribute Books. You can also purchase in different electronic formats for $2.99 to $4.99 depending upon the format.

Sober Catholic review

2011-05-25T06:22:00.000-07:00

Sober Catholic
May 25, 2011

Framing Faith
by Paul S.

Tribute Books has asked me to review another book they are publishing, this time it is “Framing Faith” written by Sarah Piccini with photography by Ivana Pavelka and “ARTS Engage!”

To quote from the synopsis:

“Framing Faith tells the story of the faith of immigrants and their descendants, spotlighting ten Catholic churches in the Diocese of Scranton that were closed due to restructuring. The churches … have rich ethnic heritages. They are Polish, Slovak, Italian, German, and Lithuanian parishes with long traditions and deep roots. Each church was founded by immigrant groups who came to the coal fields of the Lackawanna Valley with little more than their faith in God. Their churches served as the center of the community and touchstones of the Old Country. “Framing Faith” traces their histories from small beginnings through baptisms, weddings and funerals to their final celebrations. Throughout the text are images from each church, visual reminders of what was for many an important part of their lives.

I was originally going to post this review on Mother’s Day, as that was my personal tie-in to reviewing the book. I usually only review books that may have something to do with the scope of this blog. However, I was unable to meet the deadline due to some things going on in my “real life” away from blogging and other online activity. Why Mother’s Day? Because my Mom and Dad grew up in the Scranton, Pennsylvania area and although none of the churches I recall them ever mentioning are among those closing, this still hits home a bit.

The Catholic Church in the United States is restructuring. Churches are closing due to declining membership as people move away from the cities and out to other areas. The churches never recognized the need to evangelize the urban populations surrounding them, and as a result, Catholic parishes close and are boarded up, or are turned into non-Catholic churches. Anyway, the nature of the Church changes.

This is important in some manner to this blog as an authentic Catholic identity is critical one’s spiritual development. Membership in a parish is basic to the practice of the Faith, it provides a home and a framework for a person’s relationship to the greater Church as a whole.

The Introduction to “Framing Faith” provides an excellent glimpse into this idea, as it details the history of the Diocese of Scranton and the creation, growth, and development of the immigrant ethnic Catholic parishes. We see how important to the lives of Catholics these parishes were, how they were a means of social support in the decades before government charity. In addition, they were a means of maintaining a cultural identity in the times before “diversity” became an abused ideology.

Which makes it sad that certain parishes are closing. And why “Framing Faith” is an important book documenting by words and pictures the history and architectural styles of these parishes. Architecture is a means of creative expression, and how members of a Catholic parish or Christian denomination build their house of worship gives a very good indication of their concept of God and their own relationship to Him.

Generations of hard, faithful work by people long ago is now passing away. Who knows what will become of these closed churches. This is a shame, and makes us wonder at the survival of our our patrimony. Will our parishes be around 100 years from now. Will they be mourned? Will current parish members learn from the closure of churches and seek to instill an evangelical vitality so that in the event of demographic and geographic change, the parishes will survive and not be forgotten?

We must not fail in learning from the failures of the past. Get a copy of “Framing Faith”, marvel at the beauty of these churches and wonder just how could they be closing?

The book’s website: Framing Faith

Facebook: Framing Faith

To buy it: Shop Tribute Books Online

Tidbit: Holy Family (Scranton, PA)

2011-05-24T06:24:00.000-07:00

In a letter to the parish marking Holy Family's centennial, Bishop James C. Timlin wrote: "From the dedication 10 decades ago to the present, its families have worshiped, received the sacraments and lived their baptismal promises in that parish."

The Garden Gate review

2011-05-23T09:48:00.001-07:00

The Garden Gate
May 23, 2011

Book Review: Framing Faith
by Georgiann

Framing Faith is a wonderful book! This book is bittersweet but needed to be written and photos taken! As a Catholic it is sad to see an era of traditional style churches being torn down!
This book Framing Faith is a true treasure and did a awesome job to preserve forever, history of early Catholic immigrants with beautiful photos. This book is a must have for all Catholics and non Catholics alike! Well done!!!

Scorpion Stalking Duck review

2011-05-23T06:26:00.000-07:00

Scorpion Stalking Duck
May 23, 2011

Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith
by Stephen M. Donahue

Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith is a tribute in pictures to the various Catholic ethnic groups which settled for a time in the Diocese of Scranton, Pennsylvania. From the mid-1800’s until the early 1900’s, immigrants from Europe moved into Northeast Pennsylvania to work in the coal mines and iron works which were the main industry of the region. Along with their distinct languages, the settlers brought their unique traditions and culture with them, especially those related to their Faith. This book showcases ten Catholic churches which were founded by different communities, and is a testimony to the devotion of the men and women who sought to retain their culture and faith in their new homeland.

This book originally started as a project to preserve some record of the many churches which were closing in Lackawanna County, which is part of the diocese of Scranton. Over time, the endeavor grew, with photographs provided for the book by art students as well as Ms. Pavelka. Ms. Piccini complimented the photo essay with a brief but relevant history of the founding, growth, and decline of each parish. Funding was provided by the ARTS Engage! Program, Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit (NEIU 19), and the Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority. The artists and writer who contributed to this book have succeeded in achieving their stated goal: to preserve the history of these now empty churches in an informative and entertaining manner.

Briefly, the book consists of an introduction and ten chapters. The introduction gives important background information to the reader. In the next ten chapters, ten churches are presented, from their humble beginnings in the hearts and minds of the people, to their construction, growth, maturation, and sad but inevitable closure. Most of the churches were started either to provide for the needs of a new wave of immigrants arriving from a different country, or because travel to the closest existing church was too far or difficult to face every Sunday. Construction for most of these churches was funded by the parishioners, and much of the labor was done by the men after a long day in the mines or foundries. The author reports that the people contributed to make each of the churches a thing of beauty, with an emphasis on devotions which were specific to each particular ethnic group. Key events in the history of the churches - and the pastors who led the parish through them - were mentioned as well. The closure of each church, but not really any explanation for it, ends each chapter.

Every chapter includes photographs taken by Ms. Pavelka and her students. The pictures vary in each chapter, from external shots, close-ups of statues, to scenes in the sanctuary. These are an excellent collection of photographs of the churches at the time of closure. It is unfortunate that there are no pictures from the 1800’s or early 1900’s.

One thing which troubled me about this book was that there was no reason given for the closure of so many churches in one diocese. The most likely answer is that the coal and iron resources were depleted, and the jobs went away. As a result, the workers moved on. Another explanation is that the children of immigrants work hard to have a better life; usually this is done by pursuing an education and a professional career. Perhaps there is another explanation which I shall put forward: the closure of the churches is connected with the changes in the church which are reflected in the architecture.

In the introduction, a church is described as processing from the entrance - or narthex - where secular business takes place, to the baptismal font, or stoup of Holy Water. This is followed by a central aisle which leads the faithful up to the high altar. Upon this altar, we Catholics believe that the priest changes the bread and wine into the Body, Blood, Soul and Divinity of Jesus Christ. It is where Heaven comes down to Earth, and the fine metals, cloth, and silk used on the altar should convey to the faithful a sense that something Holy is taking place on the altar. Before the 1960’s, the priest faced away from the congregation, toward the Tabernacle, which was the center of the altar and held the consecrated Hosts. For a Catholic, the Tabernacle is the most important part of the altar. A good example of this is a quote about Fr. George Schmidt, who was pastor of St. Mary’s starting in 1928:

Father Schmidt was a devout and pious man, for whom “everything accomplished started at the Tabernacle....they have noticed his daily visits to Our Lord in the Blessed Sacrament....” (p. 27)

Contrast this with what happened to every one of these churches. For six of the churches, Ms. Piccini specifically mentions that renovations were made in order to conform with changes made after Vatican II in the 1960’s. Some of the most common changes were the placement of the altar so the priest faces the congregation, and elimination of the Communion rail; I have no idea what was changed in any of these churches because there are no old pictures. But what I can see is that in at least half of the churches, the Tabernacle is no longer front and center on the altar; instead, a stately chair, more like a throne, is positioned in the place of honor.

One altar - the one where Fr. Schmidt spent so much time before the Blessed Sacrament - looks like something off the set of Star Trek - The Original Series:

(Photo: Ivana Pavelka - notes added by me)

I would argue that the changes in the church architecture represent an emphasis on Man over God. God has been relegated to the sidelines by placing the Tabernacle on a side altar, and Man is the center of one’s attention at the summit of the altar. The priest now faces the congregation, so that the people concentrate upon him rather than the devotions and intercessions he would offer to God for his people if he were facing the altar. It would follow that putting Man before God will result in a loss of the faithful, loss of vocations, loss of churches. I don’t mean to single out the Diocese of Scranton; this has happened all over the world.

This book was a good read; I recommend it to all history buffs. I found the historical vignette of each parish fascinating, and the pictures were an excellent representation of each church. I also enjoy any book which makes me think; in this case, thinking of a possible connection between architecture and our Faith.

Tidbit: St. John the Evangelist (Scranton, PA)

2011-05-20T06:29:00.000-07:00

Father Healey set the groundwork for reconstruction and restoration of the church facade after its fatal brush with a fire truck.

Tidbit: St. Mary of the Assumption (Scranton, PA)

2011-05-19T06:35:00.000-07:00

The last pastor of St. Mary of the Assumption, Monsignor Dale R. Rupert, restored the stained glass windows that lined the sanctuary. The windows reflected the parish's devotion to Mary, depicting her variously as Mother, Intercessor, Comforter and Queen.

Frederation review

2011-05-18T06:31:00.000-07:00

Frederation
May 17, 2011

Book Review: Framing Faith by Sarah Piccini and Ivana Pavelka
by Fred Warren

The anthracite coal-mining towns of northeastern Pennsylvania in the 1800′s and early 1900′s were a portrait of immigrant America in microcosm. Refugees from Germany, Ireland, Italy, and eastern Europe fled poverty, war, and persecution in their native countries and dreamed of a better life in the United States. They found a reality of backbreaking, dangerous work in a land that was often less welcoming of newcomers than it aspired to be. The immigrants drew together in close-knit communities bonded by common culture and faith, and one of the first things these communities always did was build a church.

Framing Faith is a remarkable book that tells the story of Catholic immigrants to northeastern Pennsylvania in words and pictures, through their houses of worship. Sarah Piccini begins with a brisk history of Scranton and the greater Lackawanna Valley region, and then sets off on a tour of ten historical Catholic churches founded by immigrants, covering congregations from all the major ethnic groups and providing a brief but engaging outline of their founding and growth. Her narrative is accompanied by beautiful images from Ivana Pavelka and her photography students. The project was conducted with the cooperation and financial suppport of the ARTS Engage! program, Northeastern Educational Intermediate Unit (NEIU 19) and the Lackawanna Heritage Valley Authority.

My religious upbringing was in plain, functional church buildings, so the sweeping murals, ornate statuary, and brilliant stained glass of these churches was a treat for my eyes. It was even more impressive to read how the immigrant congregations financed their buildings with sacrificial offerings and sweat equity, the coal miners digging out the basements with picks and shovels in the evening after a long day of labor in the mines. In addition to their primary role as a beacon of faith and a rally point for ethnic minorities, these churches provided important social services, often spreading out into campuses that provided additional ministries such as schools, hospitals, and orphanages.

There are many inspiring tales here of courageous, patient leadership in the face of adversity. The coal that fed their communities posed a unique hazard to these churches–most of the buildings in Framing Faith suffered damage at some time when one or more of the mining tunnels that honeycombed the ground beneath them collapsed. They were rebuilt, remodeled, and refurbished as time progressed and the fashions of local culture and religious practice changed, but to greater or lesser degrees they all maintained ties to their original founding with key elements of their original architecture, interior decorations, and congregational heirlooms passed down through the generations.

Each of these churches closed its doors in recent years, not from disuse, but as part of a series of consolidations into larger parishes in order to better manage costs and clerical manpower. Framing Faith performs a noble service in preserving the beauty and rich heritage of these sacred places for future generations.

For a taste of Ms. Pavelka’s beautiful photography, check out the video trailer for Framing Faith. You can also find more information about the book and its authors at the Framing Faith website, where there are links to purchase the book in paperback or a variety of electronic formats. Framing Faith is published by Tribute Books.

Indignant Conservative Mom review

2011-05-18T06:28:00.000-07:00

Indignant Conservative Mom
May 12, 2011

Sarah Piccini's Framing Faith
by Danielle D. Hollars

Sarah Piccini's book, Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith, is an enjoyable book that I found to be extremely rewarding to read. The book delves into the influence of faith in the lives of Catholic immigrants to the North Eastern part of Pennsylvania during the late 1800's and the early 1900's. It took me back to my high schools days, and visiting Pennsylvania Dutch Country, and feeling a sense of awe in how religion influences communities. This book goes into a brief history and overview of 10 Catholic churches with an amazing array of photos by photographer Ivana Pavelka. It also has a basic layout of how most Catholic Churches are arranged, and what different items are and what they mean to Catholics.

The beautiful work of photographer Ivana Pavelka, and her students from the ARTS Engage! program are simply breathtaking.

I sat and actually let my children look at the wonderful display of the history of these churches, and they recognized some of the items and statuary. This would be a great family book to snuggle up with!

I would recommend this book to someone who loves history, particularly if they like religious history. These memories will now live on in the hearts and minds of those in that part of Scranton, Pennsylvania, and in the hard work of Sarah Piccini, Ivana Pavelka, and the Lackawanna Historical Society, just to name a few.

Here are a couple of pictures from the book:

Tidbit: St. Anthony of Padua (Scranton, PA)

2011-05-17T06:21:00.001-07:00

At the final Mass at St. Anthony of Padua, Father Cyril Edwards said, "We'll move on. We're a strong, faith-filled people."

Tidbit: St. Michael (Old Forge, PA)

2011-05-17T06:20:00.000-07:00

In 1997, Father Brozena donated new double stained glass doors to be hung at the entrance to St. Michael's church (Old Forge, PA) in memory of his parents.

Palace of Twelve Pillars review

2011-05-16T06:28:00.000-07:00

Palace of Twelve Pillars
May 15, 2011

Book Review: Framing Faith
by Christina Weigand

When I saw the opportunity to read and write a review for Framing Faith I was very excited on a number of levels. Upon reading the book and looking at the many photographs I was not disappointed.

I was a member of the neighboring Diocese of Pittsburgh, which went through some very similar changes at the same time the Diocese of Scranton was experiencing their upheavals. However, I was on the other side of the coin, living in the suburbs and feeling the strong need for newer and bigger churches and although aware of what was happening to those small city parishes, I did not feel the pain and sorrow that accompanied these changes.

With Ms.’s Piccini and Pavelka, the rich history, splendor and struggle was brought to light. As with the Diocese of Scranton, the Diocese of Pittsburgh shared similar histories full of immigrants struggling to make a life for themselves in a new world. Framing Faith gives the reader a little peak into how those struggles were managed and the immigrants faith maintained and even strengthened.

The people who could barely speak english, and made very little money in the mines and mills of Pennsylvania through the sweat of their own brows and a unwavering faith in God were able to build faith communities that today’s contemporary churches have a hard time recreating.

To think that these poor people often built the churches themselves, raised the money themselves and even repaired sometimes insurmountable problems themselves is a testemant to them. For today we build a church millions of dollars are spent, workers are paid to build the structure, someone is paid to make needed repairs. This isn’t wrong, it’s just the way of the world. But this reader thinks a precious asset has been lost in our fast paced contemporary world.

Thanks to Ms.’s Piccini and Pavelka for reminding this reader of her roots and helping me to see that my way is not the only way or even the best way.

Maybe when all is said and done, we will all learn that God’s way is the best way.

I recommend this book for anyone who loves God, the church and history. This book is full of all of them. The authors did an excellent job of travelling through history and capturing the essence of those first immigrant parishes and their people, because in the end the church is the people that make it up.

Happy reading and God Bless,

Christina Weigand

IonaScribe's review

2011-05-16T06:26:00.000-07:00

IonaScribe
May 14, 2011

Book Review: Framing Faith
by Amanda R. Danziger

"Framing Faith: A Pictorial History of Communities of Faith" written by Sarah Piccini, photography by Ivana Pavelka & ARTS! Engage.

This book is a wonderful tribute to the faith and hard work of the Catholic immigrant communities in the Scranton, PA area. It highlights ten churches that have been closed recently due to restructuring. "They are Polish, Slovak, Italian, German, and Lithuanian parishes with long traditions and deep roots."

The beautiful photographs of the art and architecture in these parish churches are the next best thing to being able to visit in person. There are many artistic gems hidden in this diocese; stained glass, paintings, altarpieces, and more. I particularly enjoyed the different sculptures of Our Lady in each ethnic parish.

Visit the website: http://www.framingfaith.com

I'm sure this book would be of particular interest to Catholics of the Scranton area whose ancestors came to work in the coal mines, but the story of rapid industrialization followed by waves of European immigrants is a very familiar one to any American. The historical detail was very engaging, especially insights into the immigrants' financial circumstances, various parish organizations, and the odd tale of the suave thief. I'm impressed by the faith of these communities, and how their values were manifested so visibly through their hard work and generosity.

The only piece missing was an explanation of the spirituality of the Tridentine Mass and belief in the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist. I feel that both of these elements are essential to understanding the faith the way it was practiced at the time these parishes were founded, and understanding what motivated these immigrants to sacrifice so much to honor the Lord.

It's sadly ironic that these once extraordinarily active parishes are now closed after renovations and reforms in the "spirit of Vatican II" which were supposed to help the lay faithful become more active participants. Regardless, these churches stand as a testimony to their great faith, and this book is a well-deserved tribute to them. I hope this project inspires others to document the rich spiritual, cultural, and artistic heritage of Catholic parishes all over the U.S.