BLAIRSVILLE--St. Francis of Assisi Parish members celebrated Appreciation of Clergy Sunday on Oct. 13 with special prayers, gifts, notes and flowers for Father Ronald Fuchs, pastor, and Franciscan Sister Rosemary Wickham, pastoral associate.

The choir sang a hymn that had been sung at Father Fuchs' ordination at the Cathedral of Christ the King, he received a bouquet of painted balloons and personal expressions of gratitude for his spirit of openness and regard for each person.

Parishioners signed a letter to be sent to Archbishop John F. Donoghue thanking him for attending the dedication of the new church and for his personal care of the parish.

The three weekend Masses were more crowded than usual with parishioners and guests visiting the mountain area to enjoy the fall colors and area festivals.