Update on the Church Construction Project
My Dear Parishioners,
As we continue this exciting and faith-filled journey of renewing our parish church and social hall, I want to share an important update on the progress of the construction project. This work—rooted in faith, patience, and generosity—represents not just a renovation of buildings, but a renewal of our mission to serve, worship, and grow together as the Body of Christ. While the process has included some unexpected turns, our goal remains clear: to create a sacred space that reflects the beauty of our faith and serves the needs of our parish for generations to come.
Project Timeline
The project will take longer than originally anticipated. We had hoped for a 52-week construction period, but it now appears the work will extend to about 75 weeks, moving the projected completion from Fall 2026 to early December 2026. Much of the delay stems from the permitting process, which we began in a timely fashion but has taken longer than expected for several reasons. We are now nearing the end of this stage—the final public input meeting will take place at City Hall on November 17. After that, we expect approval for early demolition of exterior areas and removal of certain trees (each of which will be replaced as part of our plan).
While awaiting final permits, our contractors at Grant Construction have scaled back their interior crews. The church and parish hall have been taken down to the studs, consistent with our original plans for a new heating and cooling system. This interim period has allowed our team to re-examine each aspect of the project for possible savings while maintaining quality and long-term value.
Project Costs
As often happens in projects of this scope, costs have risen. We are carefully reviewing the project item by item to identify savings where possible. Several factors have contributed to higher costs: delays in the permitting process, the discovery of additional asbestos, the finding that the church had no insulation (a surprise that will now allow us to improve energy efficiency), reinforcement of the church floor for greater structural strength, tariff-related material increases, and general inflation pressures. Our Capital Campaign Cabinet remains fully dedicated to addressing these needs. They are confident that, with faith and determination, our community will meet a revised goal once established.
We are blessed to report that we have received approximately $9.5 million in pledges toward our original $10 million goal, with more than half already received in cash. Many parishioners have completed their pledges—thank you for your generosity and commitment! We know the goal will rise to account for these cost increases, but we move forward in faith, trusting that God will provide through your continued support and prayer.
Soon, we hope to offer guided tours between weekend Masses so you can see the progress for yourselves. Standing amid the work reminds us that this project is more than construction—it is a visible sign of our parish’s faith, vision, and unity in Christ.
I want to thank each of you for your patience, prayers, and steadfast generosity as we continue this great work together. These months of waiting and transition remind us that the Church is not only a building—it is the people of God, gathered in faith and love. Please continue to pray for the success of our project, for all who labor on it, and for the day we will gather again in a renewed space to worship with joy and thanksgiving. May this be a time of hope and trust in God’s providence.
Your brother in Christ,
Fr. John Kerns
Pastor
