St Joseph on the Brandywine Parish
Renovation Capital Campaign Continues
Thank you for your kindness and generosity in this endeavor! In January 2023, a large portion of our Renew Refresh Rejoice Capital Campaign was completed with the work to our church.
We continue work in other areas of the parish grounds to make much needed improvements and your help is still needed! Please consider making a donation to this effort.
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Dear Parishioners,
I am writing to ask your support for our Campaign to restore our Parish Church and to enhance its sacred beauty as our place of worship. It is my blessing to serve as your pastor and to build on the foundation of Msgr. Rebman and all the other pastors and priests who have served this parish community since its beginning in 1841.
Since its construction, the Church has undergone several modifications, with the addition of the belltower in 1890 and more significant renovations in the 1930s and 1960s. The 1960s renovations included the removal of the marble high altar, side altars, and altar railings, the addition of carpeting to cover the white terra cotta sanctuary floor, and the movement of the tabernacle to the side. Renovations since then have reinstated and highlighted some of the original finishes.
Working with the designers and owners of the Saint Jude Liturgical Arts Studio in Havertown, PA, a design for the sanctuary was developed that honors the history of the building, while making the space beautifully appointed for Masses and other ritual celebrations. In addition to the sanctuary, the scope of the proposed renovations will address the vestibule, pew seating, as well as the Confessional, Sacristy and choir loft.
This comprehensive renovation plan can only happen with the support of many people. We hope to raise $500,000 to complete the renovations.
The restorations/renovations that we are undertaking now will ensure that our church remains a sacred place of worship, a place where we celebrate the gift of the Eucharist for years to come. Our commitment to restore and renovate the Parish Church of St. Joseph will honor the legacy left to us from the original founders.
It is with hope and certainty that I ask your prayerful consideration and support of this campaign. Assuring you of my prayer and support, the Parish Family of St. Joseph on the Brandywine.
Sincerely,