Our community is excited to participate alongside all parishes, missions and Catholic centers in the Archdiocese to strengthen and renew our Church for the future. Please continue reading to learn how this campaign will benefit us.
I am pleased to announce the relaunching of the “Call to Renew” program.Our goal is $260,000. We have commitments of $140,000, of which $95,000 has been contributed through your generosity.
I would like to introduce myself to you.I am Fr. James Nieblas; however, I also go by Fr. Jim or Fr. Jimmy.At present I am the pastor of St. Mary’s Church. In my history of being in this area for over 30 years I have been a teacher, counselor, rector (superior) and a friend to young people. Now that you know something about me, I would like to address this letter to you and to share my thoughts regarding “Call to Renew.”
First of all, thank you for donating to this project.Many of you have fulfilled your promise and some of you are in the process in completing your pledge. Thank you wherever you stand because you are friends of St. Mary’s Church and the ministry it fulfills in our community.
Secondly, I wish to express my gratitude to Fr. Rafael Saiz for beginning this project and for continuing it with your help so that this parish stands as a symbol of God’s blessing to the people of Boyle Heights.
Thirdly, many of you heard that St. Mary’s church was being incinerated by an individual who was angry with God.With the assistance of Bishop David O’Connell and the work of Fr. Rafael, Bishop O’Connell approved the installation of a new tile roof and the painting of the Church. Some people considered the scaffolding as the problem allowing the intruder to get to the tower and to the front cross.I look at it in a different way; if the work wasn’t in progress our historical church would have gone up in flames.
In the coming weeks you will be informed on the program. For those who have previously pledged, you will be updated on your commitment Thank you for your time and attention to this matter.I look forward to working together with you on insuring the vitality of our Catholic presence in Boyle Heights.
Pledged over 5 years for the Called to Renew Campaign.
Our Parish Receives
$130,000
To renew our parish and strengthen ministries.
Parish Needs
Restrooms
The restrooms in our church are integral to the comfort of those who worship with us. Upgrading and remodeling these restrooms will also make them accessible to everyone in our community.
Roofing
The church roof has now exceeded its life expectancy and repairing sections is no longer cost-efficient. Replacing the roof will prevent future damage to our worship space.
A Bold Plan of Renewal
We — the Catholic faithful — are the agents of renewal for Church and society. I am grateful for this opportunity to walk alongside clergy and parishioners in strengthening our parishes and ministries, the heart of our Archdiocese.