by Gail Finke and Emma Cassani

1 Copper steeple

1 Wood reredos
Distinctive modified Art Deco reredos combines a large central crucifix with smaller, elaborately gilded paintings of the Virgin Mary and St.
John, each flanked with a decorative panel attached with hinges. During Lent the panels are closed.

“Our fish fry is known for its communal spirit – as a place to see neighbors and friends. Usually if someone comes, they stay the entire time! We have trouble turning over tables, people just don’t want to leave.” – Father George Jaquemin, pastor

“Many, if not most, of the parishioners are actively engaged in parish life and in the life of the neighborhood.
St. Clare is really an anchor in the College Hill Community.” – Father George Jaquemin, pastor

Sept. 5, 1909
25 families met at the Ohio Military Institute to discuss a new parish.

Oct. 3, 1909
The parish’s first Mass celebrated on the stage at College Hill Town Hall.

May 29, 1910
Temporary church finished and dedicated.

1912
Sisters of St. Francis Oldenberg arrived. St. Clare School opened in their convent.

1915
School building dedicated.

1930
Rectory and basement of church built and roofed to use for Masses.

1955
Work on the church began again. It was designed by architect Edward Schulte in a style combining late-period Art Deco lines with an emphasis on spare wood elements and spare, empty space.

1957
Current church dedicated.

1964
German-made stained glass windows installed. They were based on the Benedicite canticle from the Book of Daniel used in the Liturgy of the Hours (“Oh all ye works of the Lord, bless ye the Lord”).

1987
First St. Clare Lenten fish fry, which continued until Covid-19 restrictions.

2006
New parish center built. School consolidated with several other local parishes at St. Bartholomew Consolidated School (now John Paul II).

This article appeared in the February 2022 edition of The Catholic Telegraph Magazine. For your complimentary subscription, click here.