The 13 steps to enter the side of the church are also not a challenge. He and others at the church know, though, that entry into the towering brick structure on South Third Street is an obstacle for some. Our People Enter The Dream HOPE designed to increase the accessibility to the church and its neighboring Ste. Mary s Center for those with physical handicaps. The problem of the church s accessibility, he said, was brought to the Parish Council s attention by parishioners and others whom council members encountered.
Church is very important.
People are going to go where they can enter freely and independently. In August 2000 we put a name on it and started really focusing on accomplishing this dream. So far, said Rev. Stirpe, the only physical change realized through HOPE has been restrooms renovated to accommodate those with wheelchairs or walkers. The effort is eventually planned to allow the church to build an addition connecting the Ste. Mary s Center with Immaculate Conception.