St Nicholas Parish of Barton, Ohio Celebrates 100th Anniversary
BARTON, OHIO -- On the weekend of September 17 & 18, 2011, Saint Nicholas Orthodox Church in Barton, OH celebrated the 100'th Anniversary of its incorporation as a parish community. This long-awaited event brought family, friends and clergy from near and far to the small community of Barton, OH and its environs for a festive celebration of Faith and ethnic culture.
In conjunction with the Centennial Celebration, Saint Nicholas Church sponsored a performance of the renowned Duquesne University Tamburitzans, which was held at the Capitol Theatre in Wheeling, WV on Saturday, September 17.
On Sunday, September 18, the Divine Liturgy was celebrated at the Barton church at 10:00 AM. As a beautiful, sunny day dawned, former pastors and visiting clergy processed into the church with Diocesan Representative, the Very Rev. Protopresbyter Richard G. Salley, pastor of St. Nicholas Church in New Castle, PA, to celebrate the Divine Liturgy. More than 170 friends, relatives and parishioners packed the church for this prayerful celebration.
Following the Divine Liturgy, a sumptuous Buffet Dinner was held at the Hellenic Center in Wheeling, WV. Toastmaster for this festive event was former pastor, the Very Rev. Father John P. Fencik, pastor of St. Mary Church in Bayonne, NJ. Over 200 guests enjoyed this time of great food, fellowship and re-connecting with friends and relatives.
In addition to the descendants of the original Rusyn founders, the parish is also comprised of Orthodox Christians from other ethnic backgrounds, such as Coptic, Russian, Ukrainian, Romanian and Serbian. Many converts from diverse backgrounds have also found a spiritual home at Saint Nicholas, and have enriched the fabric and life of the community.
The Very Rev. Father Michael C. Kabel is the pastor of St. Nicholas Church.