Folks at St. Bonaventure Catholic Church in the Glenshaw district of Pittsburgh are in for a real treat come Feb. 13. That’s the day Rev. Ed Schleicher begins his new duties as associate pastor there.
The move, of course, means that the mid-Mon Valley in general and St. Jerome Catholic Church in Charleroi in particular will be losing a good friend. In his brief tenure at St. Jerome – he’s been there just over three years – Father Ed has made a lasting impression on the people of that parish as well as others throughout the Valley who have come to know him and his special ways.
A story by reporter Karen Peters in The Valley Independent on Saturday (Jan. 31) certainly captured the thoughts of Father Ed in a strong way. There are those who know him well, however, who will tell you he’s been more than just a priest in his brief, but fruitful, stay at St. Jerome. He has been a friend to many, a mentor to others – a man whose compassion and talents go far beyond the symbolic white collar he wears as a man of God.
When it comes to serving others – as well as God – Father Ed is seemingly tireless. The word “No” has never been part of his vocabulary when the need to help others prevailed. He has always been there for the people of St. Jerome community as well as many others in this sprawling Mon Valley.
In her article, Miss Peters quoted Father Ed as he works “with people of all ages,” but also noted that a major part of his ministry is working with youth. That latter point is emphasized by the manner in which Father Ed has rallied the young people of our church to “answer the call of God” in so many ways. Every church must have its young people taking an early lead, and Father Ed has instilled a unique sense of pride in the young people of St Jerome to do just that.
It should be noted that Father Ed became a priest much latter in life that most men. His assignment as parochial vicar at St. Jerome was his first as a priest and came immediately on the heels of his ordination. But, he brought a wealth of knowledge and expertise as a social and youth worker with him. He also brought the unique qualities of being able to deal with all people with thoughtfulness, cooperation and compassion.
Father Ed Schleicher is one of those rare individuals whose actions we would all do well to follow.
Yes, folks at St. Bonaventure in Glenshaw are going to love him – just as we at St. Jerome who have been touched by this special man do.
Peace, Father Ed.
A Member of St. Jerome