06/01/2026
Dear Parishioners,
I am pleased to share that in the coming weeks our parish will begin an important improvement project to repave the parish parking lot, create a new parking area at the parish office, and improve handicap accessibility to the parish office.
Over the years, our parking lot has experienced significant wear and deterioration, and it has become clear that repairs are needed to ensure safety and accessibility for everyone. A special part of this project will be the enhancement of handicap access to the parish office, making it easier for all who visit the office for assistance, meetings, sacramental preparation, and other parish needs.
I want to express my deep gratitude to all our generous parishioners whose financial support has made this project possible. Your faithful stewardship and love for our parish continues to bless our community in countless ways. The original project cost was estimated at $200,000. Our parishioner, Fred Recktenwald, matched our contribution dollar for dollar. Parishioners contributed $124,467.00. Fred, in his generosity, exceeded his matching amount- he donated $137,652.00. Together, these contributions reached $262,119, exceeding the original project goal by $62,119.
As planning progressed, the scope of the project expanded beyond the original proposal. The Building and Grounds Committee recommended that, instead of simply adding a ramp to the office entrance, we create proper parking directly in front of the office. The current parking access from Smith Road presents a safety concern, and this new design will greatly improve convenience and safety for parishioners and visitors alike.
These improvements are more than construction updates- they are part of our commitment to hospitality and stewardship. Our parish should always be a place where every person feels welcomed and can safely and easily access the ministries and services of the Church. The expanded project now also includes:
• New parking in front of the parish office
• A sidewalk around the prayer garden
• Repaving the rectory driveway and parking area
• A concrete dumpster pad at the church
The total cost of both the original and expanded project is now $315,524. To complete every part of the project as planned, we still need an additional $53,405. The good news is that our generous donor has once again offered to help. For every $1 contributed by parishioners by June 22nd, Fred will donate an additional $2. If parishioners contribute $17,711, Fred will contribute the remaining $35,424 needed to fully fund the entire project. Because of your generosity, we will be able to care for our parish facilities and ensure they remain welcoming and accessible for all. On behalf of our parish I would like to thank Fred Recktenwald for his generous dedication to our parish community.
Construction is scheduled to begin on June 22. During this time, there may be temporary inconveniences, including limited parking and alternate routes to the parish office. We kindly ask for your patience and understanding as this work is completed. We will keep you informed of any changes and provide clear directions to minimize disruption.
Thank you for your continued prayers for a safe and timely completion, for your generosity, and for your support as we work together to strengthen our parish home. Together we continue building not only our parish facilities, but also a community of faith that reflects Christ’s welcome to all.
God bless,
Fr. Krzysztof Kardzis
