After several years of planning, in the spring of 2014 we announced plans for a new 1500 seat sanctuary. To finance the project we also at that time launched a campaign. Far from an old fashion fundraiser, the “Vision” campaign, as we came to call it, was presented as a spiritual exercise. No one was asked for a specific dollar amount, instead everyone was challenged to prayerfully approach their gift, and, whatever the amount, to make their gift a sacrificial one, to reach beyond their comfort zone when giving.
By every measurable standard the campaign has been an amazing success and moved us a long way toward actually making this project happen. We’re not there yet, much work remains, but we are well on our way.
A few updates and some facts:
It is now estimated that the total project cost, including extensive site work and additional parking, will reach $15million. We feel, after much consultation and design development, that this is a realistic number and, if we can get the project underway soon, should not be expected to climb any higher.
To date we have received $11.3million in pledges, a truly astounding accomplishment for a single parish. The other good news is that of that amount about $6million has already been collected, a most robust rate of fulfillment. We very much hope to raise as much of the $15million as possible and thereby borrow as little as possible.
Our planning teams have meanwhile been working diligently to pursue the necessary approvals and permits with the county and the archdiocese, a daunting project but one so far successful.
Our architects have completed design development and are in the final stages of completing construction documents. The basic design remains more or less as originally presented.
It proposes
- A strikingly simple, entirely contemporary building consistent with our existing campus buildings, handsomely sited, just west of the current sanctuary, against the backdrop of the Ridgely Road forest conservation.
- A 1500 seat sanctuary in a fan shaped space to ensure a sense of intimacy.
- A new lobby, including large new café with indoor and out door seating.
- Expanded space for kid’s and student programs.
- A smaller chapel for meditation and prayer, daily Mass, weddings and funerals.
- Additional parking.
If all goes as planned we hope to break ground on Sunday, April 3 2016, the Sunday following Easter. Meanwhile please pray for our Vision Campaign and success in actually reaching that goal. Each Sunday, from 1-4pm we host Eucharistic Adoration in our chapel (which is actually located on the site of the new building). Please join us.
