Dear Friend of Carmel Mission,
As we continue the process of renewing our pews, I wish to sincerely thank all our parishioners and visitors who have thus far contributed to our “Renew a Pew” Campaign.
Since we have met our Diocesan obligation of $50,000.00, all donations now come directly back to the parish, in order that we meet the cost involved in renewing our pews, which amounts to just short of $100,000.00.
Over the years, many of our paintings and statues have been restored, and this work of preservation and restoration is an ongoing project. Many of you are aware that we recently completed the restoration of one of our most precious statues – Our Lady of Bethlehem.
She will continue to grace our beautiful Basilica for many years to come. The latest reliable research available to us indicates that she was crafted in Portugal in the 15th century.
Our pews are crafted from pine. The original contract for their construction was placed with Murphy Milling, Santa Clara, CA in 1939, by Harry Downie. Now, eighty years on, we are having these very same pews completely sanded down to the pine wood, repaired and restored. They will enhance our Basilica for many years to come.
In donating to our Renew a Pew Campaign, you are playing your part in helping to ensure that all who come to our Basilica in future years to worship our loving God, will have comfortable seating and kneeling available to them.
I greatly appreciate your generosity and your loving support for our beautiful Mission.
In the great love of Our Risen Lord,
Fr. Paul
Pastor at Carmel Mission