Heights photographer publishes book on 21 now-shuttered churches

When Debra First learned that the Catholic Diocese of Cleveland was planning to shutter many churches, she knew she had to get involved.

A professional photographer who lives in Cleveland Heights, First set out to preserve the lifetime memories which, for so many Greater Clevelanders, were tied up with their parish church.

She wanted, however, to do more than simply record the scenes on film. She knew that there were also moving stories to be told. Most of the churches that were to be closed had their roots in ethnic communities, and these churches not only served a spiritual mission, they were of incalculable importance in helping immigrants adjust to their new home. 

First decided to make her project a family affair. With her husband Rick and their four sons, she made Sunday morning pilgrimages to all the targeted churches. From parishioners, she learned about the church's history and what parish life meant to these people who would soon be losing their religious anchor.

The result of months of travel and countless hours of interviews is her first book, Founded in Faith: Cleveland’s Lost Catholic Legacy, which is making its way to area bookstores this month. 

Published by Cleveland Landmarks Press, the softcover book tells the stories of 21 of the closed churches. The volume contains 144 pages and 127 photos. It retails for $19.95 and can be purchased at local bookstores or online at www.clevelandlandmarkspress.com.      

James Toman, publisher of Cleveland Landmarks Press Inc., is a retired college professor, a writer of Cleveland history, and author of the introduction to Founded in Faith.