Our parish rectory (the large white house just west of the Parish Center) has been the residence for many of our St. Francis de Sales parish priests for over 100 years. Built at the turn of the century, it is a large 2 story home with bedrooms/bathrooms as well as living areas, a kitchen, a dining room, office spaces, a basement, a walk-in attic, and a garage. Presently it is the home for our associate pastor, Fr. Sergio. Recently, a “Rectory Committee” was appointed by our pastor, Fr. Mark, to study the current needs and future use of this historical building. Is it in good enough shape to keep as is? Is using the building as a rectory the best use of this space? This group has recently been assessing the structure and studying the floor plans. They are recommending that the building remain standing and have it continue with current use as a clergy residence with offices for our priests. In the future they would like to see the upper level modified to create 2 hotel style roomettes for visiting priests and one full apartment for a full time resident priest.
While the rectory is generally in good condition, there are some immediate needs that the committee is recommending be addressed. These include a structural engineer study, replacement of the rusted Bilco door for security, new blinds in some areas (some have disintegrated), venting of basement windows, basement clean up, and front porch repair. In the future some possible needs include: new carpeting upstairs, refinishing the main floor hardwood floors, painting of all rooms, and freshening linens/bedding. The roof will need to be replaced in the next 3 years or so. If you are a contractor who would be interested in donating your time, talent, or materials, please let us
know!
The committee would like to get a feel of the consensus of our parishioners. We’re interested in your feedback and
would like to hear from you! There will be a “suggestion box” in the Welcome Center by the parking lot entrance for
your input, ideas, and concerns. If you would prefer to email this information, please contact Kathleen Murray, Rectory Committee Chairperson, at Kathie.murray@me.com.
The Rectory Committee is organizing a “Clean up Day” on Saturday, June 23 from 8 to noon to spruce up the
exterior. Help is needed to trim bushes, weed flower beds, wash windows, paint railings, sweep, and more. Watch your email for a “sign up” if you would like to help. It will be a fun day (even one hour of help is appreciated!) and will be followed by a brat cookout for all of the volunteers.
Once again, we are so lucky at St. Francis de Sales to have such an enthusiastic group as the Rectory Committee
who have great pride in our parish, our campus, and our history. Thank you to all!