Friday, 02 November 2012 10:33

Parish planning dedication Jan. 25, Feast of Conversion of St. Paul
The Renaissance Project, the renovation of the St. Paul Parish and Newman Center at Wichita State University, is progressing smoothly, according to Fr. John Hay, pastor.
“Paul Niedens, the superintendent from St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish said that very few construction projects that he has been involved with have gone as smoothly as this one has,” Fr. Hay said last week. “So, I think that’s kind of providential.”
Working with subcontractors can be a challenge, he said, but everything so far has been completed on schedule. “So, our timetable is very on track.”
To involve students and parishioners in the project, Fr. Hay has commissioned a talented student artist to paint a scene of the conversion of St. Paul in a large niche on the south side of the church.
“Providentially, our dedication – we just set it with bishop on his calendar – will be the Jan. 25, which is the Feast of the Conversion of St. Paul,” he said.
The date is a Friday night and was chosen in part so that priests from throughout the Diocese of Wichita could attend without interfering with their Mass obligations. It will also benefit the laity because it is not a school night.
“So, we’re excited about that dedication,” he said.
Father Hay said he hopes to commission a commemorative rosary for those who might be interested in remembering the event – and praying for the center.
The Renaissance Project is much more than a building renovation, he said. “It’s about giving a rebirth and re-envisioning our full mission and identity.
“And so, one of the things we’re doing in conjunction with this Year of Faith is we just established a committee of parishioners and students and alumni and young adults about how can we improve the spiritual, prayer, and formation life of the Newman Center.”
The Renaissance Project is not just the building, he said. “We are body and spirit. We’re trying to focus on both of those things in this renaissance.”

Want to help Fr. Hay finish the center?
Fr. John Hay says that over the last two years, the WSU Newman Center has tripled its formation programs, its active student population, and is offering many more attractive opportunities to students. “All of this growth, however, comes at a price,” he said. “Our operating budget is $450,000 and we still need to raise some $400,000 to reach our Renaissance need. I beg you to consider the importance of college ministry and to make a tangible difference in the lives of young Catholics. Your assistance will make a difference. May God bless you abundantly!”
Checks may be written to “The Renaissance Project,” and mailed to the St. Paul Parish/Newman Center, 1810 N. Roosevelt, Wichita, KS 67208.