Each of you knows the importance of upkeep for your homes. It is similar with the physical
structures of the parish. Not too long ago, through the school's rental income, it was possible to replace the roof of the school, which was in desperate need as parts of it leaked like a sieve. Our plant shows its age, as do all structures. Now we must turn our badly needed attention to the roof of the church. I am reminded of this each time it rains. We have been about the how-to of this project for the last months.

I express gratitude to George Rachmiel (Finance Committee) and John Castagna (Business
Administrator and Facilities Manager) for all the work they have put in recently in the process of what will be a great good for the capital improvement of the parish. We follow the protocols and procedures mandated by the Diocese in this and all major projects. The Diocesan Business Office requires that we have a minimum of 3 bids on such projects. Some of the companies were recommended by the Diocesan Business Office. Others were known to us from work carried out in our region. 

Once all that was done, all the bids we received, along with a request to spend money to repair, were sent to the Diocese. Diocesan Financial Guidelines state that when a proposed project is estimated to cost between $29,000 but less than $100,000, approval must come from the Bishop after agreement between the Pastor and the Parish Finance Council. The information was shared with the Diocesan Business Office, who approved the project, and the Diocesan Business and Facilities Project Manager, Dennis Rodano. The project was offered to the same company that replaced the school roof. We find them to be the most competitive in pricing the undertaking. Based on our previous experience with the school, we knew we would be most satisfied with the completed project.

The project will cost $95,000, and the monies will come from a bequest to the parish from
the estate of Gerhard Grandl and funds set aside for Capital Improvements. We will not have to borrow, which is a blessing. We do, however, need to replenish our reserves. With that in mind, I ask each parishioner to prayerfully consider a gift to the parish earmarked for the replacement of the church's roof so that we can build up our reserves for the next project, whether it be expected or as sometimes happens, unexpected, which this project will deplete. This is an important project, so we needed to allocate what was available to cover it. When presented with all the information, the parish Finance Committee endorsed the project. Approval was given for the $95,000. Preliminary work may begin as early as March, depending on the weather. I expect there will not be too much interruption to our daily schedule here while the work occurs.

I am genuinely indebted to George and John for all their work and diligent action in this big
project. I am also grateful to each of you who sacrificially contribute to the collection, which allows us to continue the mission and programs we offer here. Your goodness is essential in all that we do to keep our facilities up to date, safe and accessible.

My favorite Saint, Therese of Lisieux, wrote: "Remember, nothing is small in the eyes of God, do all that you do with Love." Thank you for doing that which you do with Love. Be assured of my prayers for you and your loved ones. Please keep me in your daily prayer.

Peace,
Fr. Richard