Press Release
Renewal of Hope: Restoration of the Roof of St. Mary’s Church in Gatineau
Project funded by the Department for Romanians Abroad
Gatineau, September 8, 2024 – On the Feast of the Nativity of the Virgin Mary, the Patronal Feast of St. Mary’s Church, the Parish of St. Mary’s Church in Gatineau is delighted and grateful to announce the launch of the project "Renewal of Hope: Restoration of the Roof of St. Mary’s Church in Gatineau." This initiative, dedicated to preserving and protecting the cultural and spiritual heritage of the Romanian community in Gatineau, is financially supported by the Department for Romanians Abroad.
Context and Importance
St. Mary’s Church in Gatineau, built between 1945 and 1947 and acquired by the Romanian community in 2010, represents a vital pillar of the local Romanian community, providing a sacred space for prayer, fellowship, and the celebration of our traditions. Restoring the roof is essential to ensure the structural integrity of the building and to protect its interior from the elements.
Project Objectives
- Complete restoration of the church roof to prevent water infiltration and structural deterioration.
- Create a safe and welcoming environment for parishioners and visitors.
Financial Details and Resources
- Total Funding: 1,180,000.00 RON
- Implementation Period: May 1 – October 31, 2024
- Use of Funds: The funds will be used for the initial assessment of the roof's condition, procurement of necessary restoration materials, payment of specialized contractors, repairs to the church tower, and continuous monitoring of the work performed.
The "Renewal of Hope: Restoration of the Roof of St. Mary’s Church in Gatineau" project aims to address significant roof damage and repair water infiltrations in the church tower. These works are crucial to ensuring the safety and structural integrity of the church, thereby preventing future additional costs. By rehabilitating the roof, the project will stimulate participation in services and community activities, strengthening the bonds among community members and providing a stable and safe environment for all involved.
St. Mary’s Church in Gatineau is a sacred and cultural meeting place between believers and God. It shares with us the grace of Christ’s sacrifice on the Cross and reminds us of the sacrifice of those who, with living faith, contributed each according to their ability to the construction and maintenance of the church. The Orthodox Church preserves the authentic faith transmitted by the Apostles and remains a timeless symbol of continuity in faith. In Orthodoxy, Christian faith and the Church are inseparable, reflecting the continuous desire to remain faithful to apostolic tradition and to transmit this faith in our contemporary community.
St. Mary’s Church
45 St Jean-Bosco,
Gatineau, QC, J8Y 3E9, Canada
office@sfantamaria.ca
Contact Person: Priest Ciprian Purcarea
