A Message from Fr. Jay
Dear Friends,
First of all, I would like to express my heartfelt gratitude for your patience and understanding during this challenging time for the parish. As you may recall, during a standard roof replacement project this past July, heavy rain caused unexpected water intrusion and additional damage to the Church. Because of this, our weekend Masses have been temporarily relocated to the Parish Life Center. I know this has not been easy, and I am deeply grateful for your flexibility, prayers, and continued support.
As previously shared, the ceiling damage throughout the Church was the result of an unfortunate oversight during the roof replacement. Since then, the Diocesan team, repair specialists and our parish team have been working closely together to ensure that all necessary repairs are completed properly and safely.
After a full investigation, it was determined that the existing ceiling supports were compromised and could not be reused. Additionally, the original wood veneer particle board material is no longer available. Out of an abundance of caution and deep concern for everyone’s safety, the decision was made to move forward with a complete ceiling replacement. The new ceiling will feature hardwood panels that enhance the beauty, efficiency, and sustainability of our Church.
We are also taking this opportunity to upgrade several aged building systems (HVAC, sprinkler and lights, etc.) located within or above the ceiling area. This timely work will help ensure greater reliability, safety, and long-term efficiency throughout our church infrastructure.
As part of the restoration, we carefully evaluated the condition of our pews, which were also partially constructed of particle board. Initially, we considered replacing only those that were damaged. However, after a detailed cost analysis, we found that installing scaffolding over the existing pews would cost more than just replacing the 20 year old pews.
By proceeding with full replacement, the project can move forward more efficiently, and we will be blessed with new, beautiful, solid wood pews that will serve our parish family for many years. Pews that remain in good condition will be repurposed for use in other Diocesan parish locations allowing our parish’s renewal to bless others as well.
The scope of this project is complex and involves several phases. According to the current schedule, demolition of the pews and ceiling is expected to begin in early December and continue through the end of January. Restoration and installation will begin in February.
We fully understand that this schedule may cause inconvenience, and we appreciate your continued patience. Please know that this effort will ultimately ensure a beautiful and safe church home for all of us and for future generations. The total projection of the project is over 2 million dollars.
We will continue to keep you informed throughout this process, including project updates and the parish financial position as we work through the remaining details with our insurance partners. Your patience, understanding, and generosity are deeply appreciated as we move forward together.
I continue to be inspired by your faith and care for one another during this time. Together, we are renewing not only our building but also our shared commitment to our parish home. I thank the Diocesan team, parish team, particularly our Finance Committee Members, our Business Manager, Holly Atkins and Facilities Director, Jason Goss, for their timely quality response and input as we steadily progress forward.
May God bless you for your patience, generosity, and steadfast spirit as we look forward to gathering once again in our renewed, restored St. John XXIII Church!
Lastly, Tuesday, November 11, 2025 is Veterans Day. Let us remember to honor all Veterans with our prayers and support.
With gratitude and prayer,
Fr. Jay Raju
- Ezekiel 47:1–2, 8–9, 12
- Psalms 46:2–3, 5–6, 8–9
- 1 Corinthians 3:9–11, 16–17
- John 2:13–22
