The sanctuary of the Church of the Holy Spirit in Palmyra bears a lasting tribute to the craftsmanship, faith and generosity of the late Joe Spear, a Fourth Degree Knight of Columbus and beloved member of Council 10502. A quiet and humble servant of the parish, Spear’s legacy lives on through the liturgical furnishings he lovingly crafted for the church he called home.
Several years ago, Spear approached then-pastor Father Anthony Dill with a simple offer: to build the sanctuary appointments the church needed. Father Dill agreed, and over the next several years, Spear – often with the help of his friend and neighbor Ron Lott – crafted the ambo, Paschal Candle stand, hymn boards, new legs for the main altar, and a cabinet for the baptistry, among other items. His work, done quietly and faithfully, transformed the sanctuary into a space of reverence and beauty.
During one walk through the sanctuary, Father Dill mentioned the presider’s chair and its accompanying seats. Spear encouraged him to choose a new design, intending to build them himself. But before he could begin, Spear was diagnosed with cancer. As his health declined, he and his wife Barb made a final act of generosity: in lieu of flowers at his funeral, they asked for donations toward the new chairs. The community responded with $4,300 in contributions.
Though grief made it difficult for Lott to complete the project his friend began and the cost of hiring outside help proved too high, the story did not end there. With renewed determination and the support of Barb, brother Knight Art Bond, former pastor Father Dijo Thomas, and current pastor Father Michael Metzger, the chairs were finally completed.
The new presider’s chair and its companions were fittingly blessed and dedicated on the Feast of the Dedication of the Lateran Basilica. The ceremony was a moving tribute to Spear’s enduring spirit and the community that rallied to fulfill his final wish.
“It is a blessing when individuals use their gifts and talents for the glory of God, especially in service to the Sacred Liturgy,” said Father Metzger. “As pastor, it brings me great joy. The blessing of these chairs was made even more meaningful by the presence of Barbara’s family, the Knights of Columbus, and the many parishioners who gathered to witness and celebrate this moment.”
Spear’s legacy will continue to inspire all who worship at the Church of the Holy Spirit as a testament to one man’s quiet devotion and the power of a community united in faith.
(Story and photos by Ray Maillet, Communications Director for Knights of Columbus Council 10502 and a member of Holy Spirit Parish.)
By Ray Maillet, Special to The Witness
