A few questions have been sent to me by parishioners regarding the proposed renovations to the sanctuary. Here are your answers:

Q: Will the suspended Cross over the altar block the view of the stained glass window? A: No. The Cross will be hung over the altar, away from the back wall and at a lower position so as not to block the view to the stained glass window.

Q: With the additional step up into the sanctuary, will this impede anyone with a handicap?
A: No. First, the step up is a wide step so it will allow for easier access and there will be a railing placed at the ambo for someone (like me) with an issue with walking) will have access to assistance. We used an architect (Amenta/Emma) for this reason to meet all OSHA safety standards. Currently there is one step up and no railing, so this will be an
improvement
.
Q: Will the parish follow standard Catholic architecture and renovation principles as it considers these renovations.
A: Yes! First, Amenta / Emma are well known in New England for its expertise in Catholic architecture. In addition to that, my ideas and consideration of thoughts from the very beginning of these renovations were influenced by the Church?s primary document called Built of Living Stone. In addition to all this, everything that we consider must be approved by the Archdiocese of Hartford?s Office of Divine Worship. I have a meeting with Fr. David Baronowski, the Offices director, this week.

Doing architectural renovations in a Catholic Church requires us to keep in mind at all times what we are doing in the Church, particularly in the sanctuary area - celebrating the Sacred Liturgy and giving glory and honor and praise to our heavenly Father. This happens in no other place and the materials we use, the designs we create and the setting we call forth must highlight that!

If you have any questions, please feel free to direct them to me. I am most happy to explain and answer any question you might have. This is after all; your parish and you have every right to put forth a concern and to receive an answer. We must also keep in mind that the renovations to a Catholic Church are not about personal taste, likes and dislikes, but must be about the act of celebrating the Sacred Liturgy worthily according to our Faith's traditions.