GIVING

Master Plan

As we look beyond our 150th anniversary, St. Patrick’s is beginning a prayerful process of discernment regarding the future of our parish facilities.

Through much prayer and careful study, we seek God’s guidance to chart a course that will faithfully support the mission and life of our parish for generations to come. Given our unique mission serving the students at VMI and W&L, the strong condition of the nave, and the significant expense of new construction, our focus is centered on maximizing the potential of our existing facilities. Consequently, we have begun working with an architect and trusted professionals to explore how our current facilities can best support the continued growth of our parish community, foster deeper fellowship, and strengthen our devotion to Christ our Lord.

As we have begun exploring what renovation at St. Patrick’s might entail, the Diocese of Richmond’s Building and Renovation Committee (BARC) has been a valuable source of guidance and support. In our conversations with them, three themes emerged clearly:

  • First, the diocese strongly encourages development of a Master Plan. Establishing a documented, clear, and unified vision will help the parish thoughtfully prioritize improvements and ensure that future efforts remain focused.
  • Next, there is no need to rush. Many parishes within the diocese have successfully approached renovation in carefully planned stages, allowing improvements to be made prudently and without incurring debt. This approach reinforces the importance of establishing a clear plan before undertaking any work.
  • Finally, the diocese wishes for us to know that they are here to help. While BARC reviews parish building proposals, their role extends far beyond approval alone. Their purpose is to support parishes throughout the process and help ensure projects are sustainable and ultimately successful. We are grateful for the experience and expertise available to us.

In Christ,
The Parish Pastoral Council

May the strength of God pilot me,
the power of God uphold me,
the wisdom of God guide me.
May the eye of God look before me,
the ear of God hear me,
the word of God speak for me.
May the hand of God protect me,
the way of God lie before me,
the shield of God defend me,
the host of God save me.

Embarking on the Master Plan Project

FAQ

What is the extent of the renovations?

We are still very early in the project, so working through the Master Plan process will help us define the proposal, establish priorities for any renovations, and ensure they can be completed in a financially prudent manner. We have established requirements and guidelines for the architect with the goal of best using our existing facilities. For example, we wish to improve the capacity in the nave, which will 1) support continued growth of the parish and 2) mitigate the need for the undercroft during high-attendance Holy Days such as Christmas and Easter. Any possible renovations to meet this need must first be approved by BARC, so ensuring that the proposal will meet diocesan standards is very important. The architect has a great deal of experience renovating Catholic churches and an extensive history working with the Diocese of Richmond, so we are excited to see the possibilities for St. Patrick's.

Are we only working on the nave?

No, we are considering possibilities for all of our facilities, including the undercroft and parish house. With the Eucharist being the source and summit of our faith, the worship space is always going to be our highest priority. However, if there are ways that we can better use our facilities to support the parish and its ministries, now is the time to explore them. This is why the diocese stresses a Master Plan and a phased approach. By working in planned stages, we can prioritize the effort. While the work may be undertaken at different times, a Master Plan will ensure that we always have a fixed vision and that the end result with be cohesive.

Will I be able to provide feedback?

Yes! We anticipate future townhall events where parishioners can review, ask questions, and offer feedback. Since we are still in the planning stages and we do not have a draft, we are not sure of the timing as of yet.

How will we pay for this?

We must be prudent about approaching any of the work. BARC will not even approve of a project unless it has a viable financial path, and the diocese discourages taking on debt. Scoping the work within our means will be important, but patience will also be key. There will be fundraising efforts as the work is undertaken and completed in phases. There have been many parishes that have successfully rolled out renovations over time, and the diocese recommends this approach. In fact, the current Judicial Vicar and Chancellor of the Diocese of Richmond, Very Reverend Brian W. Capuano, has implemented this strategy at one of his former parishes.

When will we begin?

Right now, the focus is on establishing the Master Plan. We expect to continue to discern and solidify this effort over the upcoming year.

How can I help?

Pray. Then come to Adoration and pray some more. "Teach me to do your will, for you are my God" (Psalm 143:10). When meetings are held, please participate. As the project takes shape, further opportunities will undoubtedly emerge. Be listening for more information and open to the promptings of the Holy Spirit.

Whom can I contact with additional questions?

Please reach out to a member of the Parish Pastoral Council if you have additional questions. We will be happy to answer them.

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