“Blessed Beyond Measure” Concert

Father Salvatore Ruggeri, Pastor of Saint John of the Cross Parish, Releases Christian Music CD Father Salvatore Ruggeri, pastor of St. John of the Cross Parish in Euclid, recently completed production of his inspirational CD, “Blessed Beyond Measure.” The CD features traditional hymns like How Great Thou Art and “I Need Thee Every Hour,” and contemporary favorites like Fernando Ortega’s “Take Heart, My Friend” and Marie Barnett’s “Breathe.”

Father Sal was encouraged by parishioners to record this CD as a fundraiser for St. John of the Cross ministries because he enjoys singing at Mass in praise to God. He hopes the CD will inspire and comfort those who hear it. The CDs sell for $20 each and are available to order online at www.saintjohnofthecross.org/cd just in time for the Christmas season. Songs from the CD will be performed at the “Live Concert and Release Reception” at the parish on Dec. 8 at 7 pm.

The CD is dedicated to Father Sal’s long-time friend, Lisa Craine, St. Hilary, Fairlawn parishioner (his first assignment as a priest) and cancer survivor for over seven years. “Lisa is a true example of grace, strength and faith in God,” he affirms. “She’s been through so much yet maintains a positive outlook and inspires not only her friends and family, but others battling the disease and the doctors and nurses that care for them.”

About the CD, he adds, “I could not have even considered this undertaking if it were not for the support of my talented musician friends who also perform with me, including Sarah Kozlowski – piano, Paul Zaepfel – guitar and vocals, Stephanie Ristau – vocals, Francesco Binda – synthesizer, and Olivia Clark and Belinda Conrad – cello. And, I am especially grateful to Vince Casamatta, Los Angeles sound engineer and son of parishioner Skip Casamatta, who graciously donated many hours of his time and talent to record some of my vocal tracks and to mix the entire CD.”

Sound tracks were also recorded locally by Megan Poletti Kuhar of Cleveland Heights and Michael Papatonis of Strongsville, and mastered by Michael Schoonmaker in New York.

The CD’s title “Blessed Beyond Measure,” was taken from a phrase that Fr. Sal recalls was painted onto wood in Amish country that he says best describes this journey. The CD cover photo, entitled Sunrise at Hazard Rock, Narragansett, Rhode Island, was taken by photographer Michael Blanchette (www.michaelblanchette.com) who permitted the use of the photo as a fundraiser for the parish. Fr. Sal says that he discovered this amazing photo online that just so happens to be the exact location where he ultimately accepted the call to the priesthood while on retreat as a seminarian.