Re-Entry into our Enhanced Church

by Rev. Gabriel Baltes, O.S.B.  |  09/22/2024  |  A Message from Our Pastor

Dear Parishioners,

Reentries can often times be difficult, disconcerting and even dangerous. Whether it’s reentry into the earth’s atmosphere from outer space, reentry into a family or society from which one was alienated, or reentry into a building, such as a place of worship, the action of coming back to some reality from which we were separated, poses numerous challenges. It demands giving up a familiar way of doing things from the past.

It entails recognizing differences that are new and that were perhaps unforeseen. It calls for flexibility and a willingness to adjust to that which is unfamiliar and even inconvenient. But most of all it is a concrete invitation to acknowledge that change is a part of human existence so that whatever does not change will die.

For over three months this past summer our parish was engaged in a symphony of change. We conducted our most sacred rites in a gymnasium – a place we typically do not associate with liturgical prayer. Our parishioners adjusted to this temporary relocation with great patience and appreciation. We were reminded that there are countless peo-ple throughout the world who do not have regular places for prayer – a blessing we often times take for granted. Then, last weekend, we witnessed the reentry of our members into their church building – an historical experience that can only be described as elegant, peaceful and overflowing with gratitude. I have no doubt that the memory of this weekend will linger in all our hearts for years to come.

I wish to thank all the members of our faith community who made this reentry possible and who consistently sustain the life of St. Joan of Arc Parish by the gracious giving of their time, talent and treasure. I also want to thank the fol-lowing individuals and groups of people: those who labored behind the scenes, meticulously organized and attentive to every conceivable detail; those who exerted great physical strength in order to reverently move objects that were not only heavy, but also holy and delicate; those who continued to serve as liturgical ministers during this time of transition and exile; those who prayed for the successful outcome of this “Enhancement Project,” and most especial-ly, Deacon Jack Hayes who contributed his professional expertise as a civil engineer to act as the general contractor for this entire project. Deacon Jack is the person who identified the architect and the various vendors who were hired to remove the carpet, install the terrazzo flooring, repair and refinish the pews and woodwork, paint the walls and ceilings and oversee the final and thorough cleaning of the space. He negotiated with the owners of these differ-ent companies to design a timeline so that this variety of labor could happen in a way that was organized and fiscally responsible. He came to the church each morning (before going to his regular full time job as president of a construc-tion company) to inspect and advise the work that was happening; I even witnessed him sweeping the floor and emptying trash when no one else was around. How can one person be so multi-talented? Only God can answer that question. How can one person be so willing to extend himself in such a sacrificial manner? A person who loves his parish.

As we continue the ongoing process of reentry into our newly enhanced church let us do so with a profound grati-tude for all the gifts that have come forth from one another. And let us be most grateful to God who began this good work and who now calls us to live as good stewards of these gifts so that those who follow us in the years to come will be inspired to continue this noble legacy.