Of historic Catholic St. Louis Landmarks…

The Basilica of St. Louis, King of France proudly known as the Old Cathedral has played a significant
role in the history of the Archdiocese. Even today, it is a source of great comfort, solace and joy to the tens of thousands of people who visit it each year. As you may know, it is undergoing an historic restoration.

After more than 180 years of weather extremes, the Old Cathedral’s original limestone façade is being restored. The beautiful Gothic windows are being replaced with historically accurate facsimiles made of extruded aluminum and energy efficient glass, and the roof, gutters, and steeple are being repaired. The church’s original maple floors are being stripped, repaired and refinished, as are the oak pews, confessionals and altar railings. The walls, ceiling, statuary, and decorative millwork will be restored and repainted and the mosaic floor of the Sanctuary is being repaired. With this in mind, I am writing to ask that all parishes conduct a special one time second collection in support of Restoring a St. Louis Treasure. The Campaign for the Old Cathedral on or around October 27, 2013. Together, we can be part of the ‘re-birth” of the Old Cathedral, enabling it to continue serving the Catholic faithful and our civic community in the shadow of our beloved Gateway Arch, whose grounds are also being restored. Please make every effort to give your parishioners the opportunity to participate in this historic effort. I am deeply grateful for your assistance. I will keep you and your parish family in my prayers.

Sincerely yours in Christ,
Archbishop Robert J. Carlson

(Pastor’s note -we will take up this collection on the weekend of October 26 – 27. I know there are a plethora of special collections this time of year. Sorry about the timing, but this just came out…)

A note to any parent with children of Confirmation Age who are not enrolled in St. Ann School who would like to celebrate the sacrament with our St. Ann students. There will be a meeting for parents and confirmandi on Monday, Oct. 21, from 6:30 to 7:30 to begin the process. Please contact Fr. Bill to confirm your intention to have your child confirmed here at St. Ann. The parish financial report is now up and online. Go to www.stannchurch-stl.org/category/blog/administrative/