A Blessing Beyond the Campaign

One of the greatest joys of our work is returning to visit with one of our partners long after the active phase of a capital campaign has ended. We are blessed to share in the celebration as the dream and vision that inspired the campaign become reality. Whether it's the dedication of a renovated church, the opening of a new Catholic school, a debt-elimination celebration, or the blessing of a brand-new parish, these moments remind us why our work matters.

This past weekend was one of those special moments as we joined the Infant Jesus Parish family at the Chapel at St. Charles Hospital in Port Jefferson, New York.

In preparation for their 125th anniversary, Infant Jesus Parish raised more than $2.1 million through their Forward in Faith campaign to renovate two worship spaces. Now, the first of those spaces is complete!

A History of Healing

The history of St. Charles is rooted in service, compassion, and love. The hospital was established by just four Sisters of the Order of the Daughters of Wisdom, who were called to care for 27 homeless children with disabilities. By 1910, the ministry had grown into a three-story facility designed to accommodate 250 children and was dedicated as St. Charles. Today, the hospital continues its healing mission, serving children and adults.

A hospital chapel holds a special place in a community. It offers a place of prayer and comfort for patients, families, and those who care for them. This renovation, the first since 1996, is an investment not only in a physical space, but also in the spiritual well-being of all who enter.

A Sacred and Moving Celebration

This historic celebration included the blessing of the new ambo and the consecration of the new altar.

One particularly moving moment came as Bishop John O. Barres poured sacred chrism onto the five crosses etched into the altar, representing the five wounds Jesus endured during His Passion. Billows of incense rose and carried our prayers, then parish staff carefully wiped and dressed the altar with fresh linens and candles, preparing the table for the celebration of the Eucharist.

Another special gift was shared by Sister Catherine Sheehan, US Delegation Leader of the Daughters of Wisdom, who presented a relic of Pope Saint Pius X, which will remain in the chapel for public veneration.

Each moment was a beautiful reminder that a sacred space is more than a building. It is a place where faith is nurtured, prayers are offered, and people encounter the presence of Christ.

A Blessing Beyond the Campaign

It was truly humbling to celebrate this remarkable day with the Infant Jesus and St. Charles communities. In a place dedicated to healing, the blessing of this renewed chapel was a powerful reminder of the healing power of the Holy Spirit. It is days like this that strengthen our faith and deepen our unity as one Body in Christ.

These are the moments that stay with us long after a campaign has ended. They remind us that our work is about more than raising funds or completing projects. It is about helping communities build, restore, and preserve the places where faith is lived, shared, and passed on.

At LDA, we are grateful for the opportunity to walk alongside our partners on their journey. To witness a dream become reality and see a sacred space preserved for generations to come is a blessing in itself.

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