A significant error was made in the 1960s when the church façade was tuckpointed. An incorrect type of mortar was used which allowed moisture to seep through the masonry into the inner structural surfaces. Temperature fluctuations exacerbated the problems during seasonal freeze/thaw cycles causing the mortar to loosen and fall away, allowing more water and moisture seepage.
These photos illustrate the current condition of the corners of the south tower as well as an example of the deterioration of some of the pillars. All pillars need replacement.
THE PRICE TAG
We have had multiple assessments of the scope of the work necessary to repair both towers. We have also had multiple masonry contractors bid on the project. The average price for the crucial repairs of both towers and all pillars is $1,200,000. That is the critical portion of the renovation. That is our current focus.
While the contractors were compiling the information they needed to bid on the towers, we had them also assess the rest of the building façade and write bids for that portion of the project as well. The second phase of the exterior repair of our extraordinary church will include replacement of damaged face brick, repairs of defective lintels, tuckpointing, and sealing of the remainder of the building. The funds needed to complete the second phase of the repair is approximately $1,000,000. Completion of both phases will cost about $2,200,000.
AN ENORMOUS UNDERTAKING!
We get it.
It’s a monumental task!
We’ve planned, we’ve organized, we’ve prayed.
With GOD’s grace and a little help from our friends, we know
WE CAN DO IT!
JAKOŚ TO BĘDZIE
As Poles, it is in our blood to fight for the things that are important to us. Our ancestors endured multiple division of their country, world wars, and Soviet rule, but they never gave in to despair. They responded to life’s uncertainties and misfortunes with hope and optimism. Poles have adopted a jakoś to będzie (pronounced ya-kosh toe ben-jay) approach to life – the meaning of which is: things will work out in the end. The best way to describe this tactic is letting go of the things you cannot control, but acting on the things you can, without overthinking the consequences.
With that being said, we are well aware of the huge cost of the repair and renovation of our beloved church. The magnitude of such an undertaking would frighten the most courageous of hearts. But we are not like most people. We are descendants of warriors – those who refused to give up their homeland in the face of overwhelming odds. Though our parish has become much more diverse through the years, for all of us, Saint Stanislaus Kostka Church is, and always will be our home.
We know that through the grace of God, and with help from the may who love Saint Stanislaus Kostka Church as much as we do, we will achieve our goal and restore our church to the splendor befitting the house of the King of Kings!
The information regarding “jakoś to będzie” was gathered from an article by Michele Debczak, dated September 8, 2020, and published in MENTAL FLOSS magazine.
TOWER REPAIR
We are in the midst of organizing a capital campaign to address critical repairs to both bell towers. God willing, our ultimate goal is to completely restore our beautiful church to its original grandeur – befitting the house of the King of Kings!
THE ULTIMATE
NIECH BĘDZIE POCHWALONY
JEZUS CHRYSTUS
NA WIEKI WIEKÓW.
AMEN
PRAISED BE JESUS CHRIST
FOREVER AND EVER.
AMEN
The parish is currently organizing a capital campaign
to address critical repairs to both bell towers.
Contributions to this project are greatly appreciated.
–
Ways to Give –
Online Giving: Visit our website www.sanctusstanislaus.com and click “Contribute” then
scroll down to “Capital Campaign, Bell Towers.” Or simply scan the QR code using your phone.
Via Mail: Saint Stanislaus Kostka Catholic Church
Bell Tower Fund
1506 Washington Street
Michigan City, IN 46360
We would like to share a quote of Saint John Paul II that we have taken to heart during the planning of the campaign:
I plead with you –
Never, ever give up on hope,
never doubt,
never tire,
and never become
discourage.
BE NOT AFRAID