August 21, 2011

Dear Brothers and Sisters,

This past Monday we celebrated the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, which marks the one year anniversary of our church renovations. This anniversary is a good time to offer a renewed thank you to all of those who gave so generously to make it possible, through time and labor and memorial gifts and offerings. It’s hard to believe that it has already been one year now, especially since the church and sanctuary still have such a bright and beautiful appearance. This is thanks to the dedicated and very hard working group of parishioners who take time to clean the church each and every week. I am so grateful for all they do - the vacuuming of the carpets, the polishing of the metal, the cleaning of the tile and marble, the removing of stains from the pew cushions. I know in their hearts they are happy to invest their time and energy because the church is the center of our campus, the place where we meet God in worship around His Altar. Inspired by their example, I want to encourage us all to keep doing our best to keep the church clean as we begin the second year in our renovated space. As a refresher, I’d like to print again the guidelines developed by our Pastoral Council and published last year as we moved into our renovated church:

“The renovation of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church required a significant sacrifice of time and financial resources by many members of the parish. In the past, the use of food, drinks and writing materials has caused permanent staining to the seat cushions and carpeting. We respectfully ask that all parishioners help maintain our new facilities by following these guidelines concerning the use of food, drink and art supplies:

1. We ask that, in ordinary circumstances, no food or drink be brought into the church. If it necessary to bring a drink for infants or young toddlers, please ensure that it is in spill-proof containers. Also, we suggest you consider utilizing the Narthex (front vestibule) or the cry room of the church for such needs.

2. Please make sure that any spilled items are cleaned up. Accidents do happen, we request you notify an usher as you leave church so that any spots can be immediately treated to avoid permanent staining.

3. We request you refrain from bringing art supplies to church (markers, crayons, pencils and pens) as in the past they have left considerable damage to the pews and the cushions. Please consider books or small hand held figurines for our young parishioners.

We understand the struggle in attending Mass as a family and do want to balance your concerns with preserving our newly renovated sacred place. As you need a space to accommodate such things as food, drinks or other needs, please consider locations like the Narthex or Little People’s Church (Children's Room). We thank you.”

Have a very blessed new week!