Recently we signed the contract for the first phase in repairing the damages done to our School building by its shifting foundation. We have engaged the Hayward Baker Geotechnical Construction Company, since their bid was the lowest. With a 15% contingency factor added in, the work will cost $140,800.00. Hopefully, the repairs will begin at the end of the month. The other two phases, namely repairing the exterior walls and the flooring of some of the classrooms, will take place during the summer while school and CCD classes are not in session. Of course, each of the other two phases will have its own price tag, to be determined later.

Thankfully, we have reserves on deposit at the Archdiocese which will pay for this first phase. But this project will seriously deplete these reserves. Those funds have been deposited there for a rainy day. This undertaking certainly qualifies as a very rainy day! But who knows what rainy days await us in the future? It is important, therefore, for us to start replenishing our reserves. To this end, we respectfully but urgently ask that you consider increasing your Christmas donation to Saint Joseph’s this year, if you possibly can. You have always risen to the occasion in the past. We know that we can count on you now! God bless you in advance for whatever generosity you can show our Parish.

PREPARE THE WAY OF THE LORD!

While Advent is not a penitential season such as Lent, it is a time for us to prepare the way of the Lord into our hearts. One of the most important ways of doing this is to celebrate the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Please note that, to enable us to prepare for Christmas, we will offer expanded opportunities to celebrate this sacrament. Next Saturday, December 19th, Confessions will be heard by both priests from 3:30—5:00 PM. On the following Monday, December 21st, there will be a Reconciliation Service with individual confessions celebrated at 7:00 PM in church. We encourage you to avail yourselves of these opportunities. If these times do not work for you, you can always call to make an appointment with one of the priests.

WE HAVEN’T FORGOTTEN!

Many are wondering about the status of the renovation to our sanctuary. We haven’t forgotten about it! It was on hold until we learned the scope of the school repairs. Now that we’re about to start the first phase of those repairs, we can revisit the church renovation. We should have something to report on this before too much longer. Thank you for your understanding and patience.