CCAirwaves

Famous Figures- Father Gene Wilson C.PP.S.

• The Catholic Cemeteries Association

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Father Gene Wilson broke barriers as the first African-American priest ordained in the Diocese of Cleveland, leaving a lasting impact through his unwavering faith and dedication to Christ. His journey from Charleston to Cleveland established a legacy of service that paved the way for future generations of priests.

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Speaker 1:

Thank you so much for joining us. Hello and welcome back to CC Airwaves. My name is Paige Mattillo and today it's just me, no co-host, which means that I will be sharing another story of an important figure that has been laid to rest in our cemeteries. Cleveland has been home to many influential African-American leaders who have shaped our region across generations, organizations and industries. One such leader was Father Gene Wilson, c-p-p-s, a man whose unwavering faith and dedication left a lasting impact on the Diocese of Cleveland. As the first African-American priest ordained in the diocese, his story is one deep devotion to Christ and service to his community. Born in Charleston, west Virginia, on May 18, 1928, Wilson's journey of faith began early. His parents, luther Lee and Hilda Wilson, moved their family to Cleveland, which would always remain his hometown, despite his travels across the country. At the age of 22, he entered the Missionaries of Precious Blood, beginning a lifelong commitment to the ministry. By 30, he had earned his bachelor degree from St Joseph's College in Indiana and was ordained a priest on May 28th of the same year.

Speaker 1:

Wilson's early ministry began at St Adalbert Church in Cleveland, where he faithfully served his parish. Seeking to deepen his knowledge and expand his ministry, he pursued further education at Catholic University in Washington DC, earning his master's degrees in library science and spirituality. His time as a librarian was brief, as he soon felt called back to parish ministry. His journey took him across the country, particularly to California, where he helped establish the province of the Pacific and played a crucial role in reaching new cultural communities. His missionary work and ability to connect with people of all backgrounds made him a respected and beloved leader.

Speaker 1:

At 78, wilson returned to Ohio, serving as a senior associate pastor at St Mark Church in Cincinnati. There he became known for his healing masses and efforts to bring the black consciousness movement to his parish, fostering greater awareness and cultural identity among his congregation. In 2009, he transitioned to the ministry at the Sorrowful Mother Shrine in Bellevue, ohio, a place of deep spiritual significance for many. Reverend Wilson's joyful spirit, unwavering faith and dedication to Christ defined his legacy. He passed away in Cleveland on March 30, 2017, at the age of 88, and was laid to rest at Calvary Cemetery in Section 92, lot 1301C, grave 2. As the first African American priest in the Diocese of Cleveland, reverend Wilson paved the way for future generations of men called to the priesthood. His life is a testament to the profound impact one individual can have on a community through faith, perseverance and service. Thank you so much for joining me today and stay tuned for another famous figure soon.