Raise the Roof

 
We have completed Phase I of the Tower and Roof Repair.  The upper level of each tower was repointed.  Each tower roof and cross were removed and reset with industrial roofing material.  The spires and molding of each tower were removed, reshaped & strengthened, and reattached.  The roof between the towers was entirely replaced.  Finally, the bas relief of the Conversion of Paul by Lumen Martin Winter was cleaned.
 
Phase I began in October, 2009 and was officially completed on June 3, 2011 at a cost of $1.3 million.
 
Some of the pictures show the lower roof of the church covered in a black material.  This represents the beginning of Phase II, the replacement of the rest of the roof.  Both lower roofs have been cleared of the slate tile and re-boarded with new wood and this black waterproofing material.  Scaffolding will shortly be erected to begin work on the upper roof.
 
If you look closely at the apex of the main upper roof, you'll see a metal strip extending the length of the roof ridge -- which should, rather, extend the full length of the ridge.  During the severe winter, a section of the ridge cap came off exposing the interior ceiling of the church to water damage.  As of last Friday, June 3rd, we have had to close the area around the High Altar and the Altar of Mary.  The water damage has caused the plaster to loosen and to fall to the church floor.  We have moved the Blessed Sacrament to the Altar of Saint Joseph and created a sacristy access in back of the high altar.  The interior church ceiling is still being evaluated, but these areas are likely to be closed for some months, until the exterior upper roof ridge cap can be repaired.
 
We got through the ordinations, but unfortunately, we will have to keep this area closed until we are sure that is safe.
 
- Fr. Gil

The Raise the Roof Fund has been established to fund the completion of Phase II of the roof restoration. The Church of St. Paul the Apostle now offers ParishPay to all our parishioners. If you'd like to contribute or set up regular contributions to the church, please click HERE to sign up. You may also contact the Parish Business Office.

Click here to view the Roof Plan