St. James Needing Some Help from the Community

is expected — as early as this summer.

But parishioners, who have rallied since the church closed in 2010, are getting ready — and they from the community.

The Friends of St. James are hosting a fundraiser at Johnny Malloy’s at 17103 Detroit Ave at 4 p.m. June 29. 

Proceeds from the fundraiser will be used to “continue our work of keeping parishioners informed of the progress toward restoration of the parish,” said Toni Sabo, the president of the Friends of St. James organization.

She said the money will also help to restore the building once it’s reopened.

“Tell the hostess that you are with the Friends of St. James and a portion of your bill will be donated to the Friends of St. James,” she said. “So bring the family and enjoy a pizza and wings and reconnect with old friends and meet new ones and support the Friends of St. James.”

Sabo and a group of parishioners are expected to meet with Bishop Richard Lennon today.

“We do continue to pray,” said Sabo.

The greatest of their prayers has already been answered, when Lennon announced in April to reverse his to close 12 parishes in Northeast Ohio.

Questions remain about St. James’ leadership and physical restoration — and no firm date has been set.