Dear Parishioners of St. Elizabeth Seton,

The Jubilee Renovations continue to progress. Over the past few weeks, many improvements have been made to welcome everyone to St. Elizabeth Seton. From families with small children to those needing special accommodations and wheelchair access, the renovation will be a significant improvement.

The new ramp to the sanctuary has been constructed allowing Lectors and Eucharistic Ministers safe and easy access.  It is wide enough to accommodate a walker or wheelchair to encourage those who wish to serve,  the ability to participate in the mission of Christ by dedicating their time and faith in these ministries. Railings will be installed along both sides of the ramp and along the one step down to the choir area for safe access.

When we began our Jubilee renovations journey, many parishioners expressed their desire to keep their walker and expanded seating for those in wheelchairs.  This has been accomplished and the new parish will accommodate those needs. A total of 12 wheelchair positions are in the new pew layout and space is available in the seating area for mobility devices.

The Narthex (entry lobby) will have seating for families who may have to step out of the church with their wiggly toddler or crying baby, but allow them to participate in the worship.  The narthex is designed to be welcoming to all parishioners and guest by being an open and inviting space to enter.  The new exterior doors have windows to allow natural light into the Narthex while making it safer to see those entering and exiting our church.The exterior ramp to the north and east of the sanctuary has been removed and a safe, American’s with Disabilities (ADA) ramp will be installed in the weeks to come.

We frequently raise our voices to the  hymn, “All are welcome” by Marty Haugen.  The lyrics remind us of what we are building together:

                Let us build a house where love can dwell
                And all can safely live …

                Built of hopes and dreams and visions
                Rock of faith and vault of grace
                Here the love of Christ shall end divisions
                All are welcome, all are welcome
                All are welcome in this place.

In Christ,

Dr. Kathleen H. Goeppinger
Jubilee Chair