Dear Parishioners of St. Elizabeth Seton,
The last weekend of August is finally here and while we need to brave another month or two of hot weather, there is finally hope that the fall season will usher in a change of weather, shorter days and cooler nights. It will also usher in the last three months of our Jubilee Renovations. 
There remains a long but dwindling “To Do” list! In the past week and the weeks to come, our efforts will be directed toward cleaning the extensive construction dust and dirt that covers all surfaces. The old adage that you can write your name in the dust of any surface is so true in the church. Cutting concrete, grinding floors to level the surface and sawing wood has caused considerable dirt and mess. I look around and hardly know where to start. That is why we have made the decision to engage MetroCleaning to begin the cleaning process. They have already made a huge difference and are scheduled for at least three more phases of cleaning. This past week they did a preliminary dust removal with massive vacuums to pull dust from the flooring. This coming week they are washing and cleaning the floors, doors and windows and concluded this phase by sealing the grout. This phase has to be completed prior to the installation of the pews.
However, the cleaning does not end there as the installation of the pews brings more dust into the air and on the floors. We have a great team from MetroCleaning, and Miklos, the working supervisor, is very proud of the hard work and dedication the team that express their thanks for working in a Catholic Church!
When you read this, the new pews and church furniture are being carefully installed. We should conclude this in early September. By mid-month we will begin installing the railing system along the ramp to the Sanctuary as well as the choir area. We hope to install the new exterior church doors in late September. October will bring about a long list of “little” things including completion of the restrooms, insulation of the confessionals and the installation of the new wireless sound system and acoustic tiles along the soffit.
But the horizon is bright. While I have been asked repeatedly if we can move in before 2027, I continue to share with all of you that we are doing everything we can to process back to our church in our Jubilee Year 2026. With your continued prayers, understanding and support the parish staff and I are committed to make this happen. The journey has been a joyful one. I have deep appreciation for the many trades that have committed to being part of our parish renovation, to the new friends we have made along the way, and the generosity of this parish family. May the upcoming fall season remind us that each season encourages us to look forward and see new beauty.
In Christ and with profound gratitude,
Dr. Kathleen H. Goeppinger
Jubilee Chair
