Monsignor Krebs Presents Handmade Gift

CLEARFIELD, Pa. — The Rev. Monsignor Henry Krebs has inspired residents and team members at Colonial Courtyard at Clearfield as a spiritual leader for years.

Drawing on a lifelong hobby, the 93-year-old recently presented the senior living community with a one-of-a-kind gift that he built.

“Monsignor Krebs hand-crafted a beautiful model ship, which he named The Colonial, and generously presented it to Colonial Courtyard at Clearfield,” said Brittany Gearhart, Executive Operations Officer, who accepted the gift.

Monsignor Krebs wanted to show his appreciation of the team members and fellow residents at the senior living community.

“Colonial Courtyard at Clearfield is my home. This is where I live with my family — the residents,” he said when asked why donating the wooden ship to the senior living community meant so much to him.

Although retired, Monsignor Krebs continues his ministry by celebrating Mass at Colonial Courtyard at Clearfield on the fourth Sunday of every month. He also is known for offering prayers, encouragement and friendship to residents, their families and team members.

“Monsignor brings a special light to every day here at Colonial Courtyard,” Gearhart said. “He prays for us, jokes with us, and makes every day better. We are so thankful to have him here with us.”

A resident at Colonial Courtyard at Clearfield for three years, Monsignor Krebs spent decades serving communities throughout the Diocese of Erie.

Following his ordination, he taught at Erie Cathedral Preparatory School before serving as assistant headmaster at Elk County Catholic School. He later became headmaster at DuBois Central Catholic, where he served for 12 years, and then spent two years at Kennedy Catholic High School.

Monsignor Krebs then served as pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Parish for 22 years before returning to his hometown of Clearfield. There, he was senior associate at St. Francis Church for 20 years before retiring from active parish ministry.

In 1991, Monsignor Krebs was named Chaplain of His Holiness and given the title of Monsignor by Pope John Paul II, according to the Diocese of Erie.

“Building model ships remains one of Monsignor Krebs’ favorite hobbies, and Colonial Courtyard is honored to receive such a meaningful and thoughtful gift,” said Kellie Strouse, Community Relations Director at the senior living community. “This handcrafted ship serves as a reminder of his creativity, generosity and the lasting impact Monsignor Krebs continues to make on those around him.”

For more information, contact Kellie Strouse, Community Relations Director, Colonial Courtyard at Clearfield, at [email protected] or call 814.765.2246.