Rectory Work

10-10-2021Weekly ReflectionFr. Michael Straley

Last month we began again talking about our new rectory and some questions came up that I want to clarify. First, a rectory is not a “house” it is more complicated than a house. Each priest needs private space, so there are “suites” not just bedrooms in a rectory. Each suite has a sitting room, a bedroom and a bathroom and each suite has a separate temperature control. Usually a rectory will have a chapel for prayer and a guest room. Our rectory will have four suites to allow us to have retired priests with us to help, and to pay rent.

When I was at our priest convocation last month, two priests nearing retirement asked when our rectory would be finished; they are already thinking of where they will live. Also, some of our younger priests were excited to hear that the rectory would be “on campus”.

Finally, I want to remind you that we are currently paying rent for two priests. Over the years you have paid rent for your priests, which seems like a waste of money. As our Parish Council commented, the rectory is more an investment in our parish than an expense.

As always, I thank you for your generosity,
Fr. Mike