St. Jerome Catholic Parish

According to a news release on November 9, 1959, the Catholics of Walbridge, Ohio discussed the possibility of erecting a Church. From this release, Father Joseph Pastorek, pastor and founder, and his people, made progress towards fulfillment of this possibility. Thus on September 9, 1962, the first mass was said in the Walbridge School. From that date until December 8, 1962, when the first Mass was celebrated in St. Jerome Hall on property purchased by the Diocese of Toledo in 1956 for the sum of $25,000, rapid progress was made in the construction of an all-purpose building with the attachment of a partial rectory. The first councilmen at that time were: Leo Henige, Terry Gaul, Jerry McCloskey, and Don Wolfe. About three years later, St. Jerome School opened its doors for the first time on September 7, 1965, with the enrollment of 97 children in grades 1 through 4. The enrollment increased as one grade was added each year. In l969 St. Jerome arrived at the required 8 grades. At present we have over 250 students enrolled in our parish school. Sister Mary Loyola was the first principal and served in this capacity until her untimely death in October 1971. The following personnel have served as principal for St. Jerome, and they are: Principals (years) Sister Maurice 1980 - 1981 Eric Wagner 1981 - 1984 Lori Schweyer 1984 - 1986 Helen Mack 1986 - 1987 Sister Eleanor Furman 1987 - 1993 Sister Diane Hay 1993 - 2005 Ann Sciarini 2005 - Present August, 1965, the convent was completed. Thus in a space of three years, a parish plan was completed and in full operation under the leadership of Father Pastorek and the wonderful help and cooperation of the parishioners of St. Jerome. September, 1967, Father Pastorek was transferred to St. Charles Parish in Lima. Since his transfer, the following personnel have served as Pastor of the Church: Pastors Fr. Joseph Pastorek - 1962-1967 Fr. Jerome Swiatcki - 1967-1968 Fr. Edward Dietzer - 1968-1977 Fr. Edward Stietzer - 1977-1987 Fr. John Stites - 1987-1995 Fr. Wm. Parker - 1995 to present Since its founding St. Jerome has grown. With homes built in the village of Walbridge and the outlying districts, St. Jerome Parish will have a great future. With Faith and Trust in God, we can all work together to spread God’s kingdom in our hearts and in the hearts of others, thus making a thriving parish.