Dear Parishioners,
This week’s message is a brief thank you for those who were able to attend the Open House and extend warm greetings to those who are unable to see the updates prior to the first Mass in our renovated church. We are welcoming Bishop John Dolan to St. Elizabeth Seton on Sunday, November 22, 2026, at 11:00 AM and humbly ask for his blessing over the Church and Parishioners and consecration of the Altar.
One of the most stunning transformations to our church occurred this past week as we installed the exterior entrance doors. Many of you shared your joy with me for the early “sneak peek” prior to Open House as you noted the new beautiful and welcoming entrance to St. Elizabeth Seton. As previously explained, the handcrafted doors were made by a company in Montgomery, Alabama. When searching for doors for the church, we found this company started by woodworker, John Smith in 1968, a year after our growing Diocese planned for our parish in Sun City. He and his partner, Charles Jones, a stained-glass specialist, formed a partnership called Decora Doors. They manufactured our doors in Alabama from imported Nigerian Mahogany and inserted clear glass to allow natural light in the Narthex.
In the next two weeks, more refinements will take place in our worship space. Installation of artwork will be completed, a temporary donor wall will be created and the organization of the Sacristy and Ministry rooms will be finalized. We will be testing the sound system and inviting liturgical ministries to get comfortable with their new spaces. Eucharistic Ministers will receive training for their updated locations while the ushers find their way around the new nave.
As I reflect on the past six months, I have so much admiration and respect for our parish community. Throughout the renovation of our church, you continued to be engaged in prayer, service, and compassion for others. It is a special milestone that we can usher in our Advent Season in our new renovated church. It has been this spirit that moved us forward that has brought our construction project to completion in the six months, right on our target!
Thank you!
In Christ and with Gratitude,
Dr. Kathleen H. Goeppinger
Jubilee Chair
