This weekend is the Commitment weekend of the
Come, Follow Me....and share the Word
2019 Annual Catholic Appeal
for the Archdiocese of Chicago. You have been given flyers and asked to read through the pages and prayerfully reflect on the pledge you can make as a commitment today as we come together to be nourished in Word and Sacrament and to make our commitments to the Annual Catholic Appeal.
The generosity of the parish, supporting the work of the Church in spreading God's word, is appreciated. May each of us do what we can making our parish's participation in the 2019 Annual Catholic Appeal an opportunity of generosity, pride, and gratitude for the means, resources, and ability to give with generous hearts.
I remember greeting people after Mass last year, approached by someone leaving the church. "Fr. Mike, you know what St. Mary's needs?" I paused, and asked, "please, let me know what you think St. Mary's needs?" I was told, "We need an elevator for the church!" Holding back a chuckle, "We have an elevator, in the south entrance to the church." "Oh, really, thanks. That is great!"
I share that story because depending upon when and how you enter the church, you may not be aware of what we have and what we do not have. Over the past year, discussions have been held with the Parish Council, the Parish Finance Council, and the Parish Staff regarding the east stairways and the east entrance to the church. For those who regularly use the east entrance and stairways, you are aware of the deterioration and the need for improvements for the well-being and safety of all who come to St. Mary's!
In addition to the above mentioned meetings, there have been meetings and conversations with the Archdiocese of Chicago department of facilities and construction, local architects, construction firms, engineering firms, and lighting firms as well as the Historic Preservation Committee of Lake Forest.
A presentation was made to the Historic Preservation Committee in November, and we were approved by this committee to move forward with the improvements to the church. Regular meetings are taking place with the Archdiocese, construction, and engineering firms to move forward with this long needed project at the Church of St. Mary.
With any construction project there are planning stages that take place to make sure the project can move forward with as few headaches, setbacks, or delays as possible. The time frame is being put together and reviewed by all involved parties regarding this parish project.
The plan being formed is to begin construction in early to mid-June when the school year is finished. As details of the construction schedule become available they will be presented to the parish. The project is being drafted so that it can be sent out to bid. I hope to have the projection costs in March to share with the Parish Finance Committee, Parish Council, and the entire parish.
Whenever a construction project takes place, while the church is still in use, accommodations and adjustments to routine will be required. More details and information will be shared later this spring when that information is available to all. Please let me know if you have any questions.
Thanks to all those who brought groceries and household items to support the Food Pantry at Most Blessed Trinity parish.
There is an information meeting Monday, February 25 at 7:00pm in the Parish Office regarding a St. Joseph Table at St. Mary's!
God bless you with a generous heart!!!
