Story by Randy Porter
SEWARD (SNR) - Members of St. Vincent de Paul Parish in Seward participated in Easter Mass in a newly renovated sanctuary.
There was never any doubt the faithful would fill the church on Easter, said pastor Msgr. Robert Tucker. Weeks ago, however, it was uncertain if contractors would finish the renovations by Easter. Many parishioners have wanted the improvements for years.
“When I came in 2017, parishioners made me aware there was a desire for this,” he said. “We wanted to do the work last summer more than during the school year. However, because of the pandemic, a March fundraiser was postponed until August.”
The delay in finishing the renovations seems providential, now, Tucker said. First, it’s an appropriate time because of Easter. Second, various people return to Mass for Easter, and this will be another motivation for them to come — to see the new sanctuary.
Although contractors worked hard to complete the project by Easter, they were temporarily slowed. Construction materials were unavailable for weeks. Parishioners prayed for work to be able to continue, and it did.
Parish members worked on plans for the renovation more than two years. The facilities committee created a 20-member subcommittee for the project.
Furthermore, the chairperson of the facilities committee invited all parishioners to participate.
In the renovation, the back wall of the sanctuary was taken down. A stone wall was erected in its place with the tabernacle in the center and statutes on either side. The Risen Christ statue was replaced with a wonderful crucifix.
The design is classical or Romanesque.
“There are too many people to thank for this project to name each one individually,” said Msgr. Tucker. “We are definitely grateful to those who contributed financially. It wouldn’t have happened without their support.”
