Over the years we have been looking at the possibility of replacing the heavy kneelers with a lighter, safer, version. Upgrading the kneelers meant giving consideration to upgrading the floor. We also wanted to consider the possible relocation of the bathrooms for better accessibility. In consultation with the Archdiocese of Boston we hired an architect to evaluate these needs and make suitable recommendations and proposed designs. The new design provides for new flooring and kneelers throughout the church. This would entail the lifting and re-setting of the original pews in such fashion as to allow more room and easier access, while also complying with the current building code. We will also be restoring the original architectural design of the church altar rail, to be located across the first step of the sanctuary currently where the green carpet is.

Unfortunately, moving the bathrooms to the front vestibule was not practical. The utilities for the church all come in through the sacristy and there is no underground basement in the church. Therefore, running water and sewer pipes from the sacristy to the vestibule would have entailed formidable work and prohibitive expense. The new design will construct a ramp into the sacristy allowing greater accessibility to the bathrooms as well as the chapel (and confessional). This design also levels the sacristy floor and partitions 1/3rd of the sacristy for priests vesting area.
Specifications were drawn by the architect and bids were made by contractors approved by the Archdiocese of Boston Facilities Office. Citywide Contracting, won the bid and was awarded the contract. The work is scheduled to begin January. (Floor plan diagram.)

In order to complete this renovation in a timely manner we will be closing the church for the month of January with a planned reopening the first weekend of February. Sunday Masses for the month of January will be held in the school cafeteria and daily Mass will be moved to the chapel. Saint Timothy parish is graciously working with us to facilitate funerals at St. Timothy church for January. St. Catherine priests and music ministry and servers will still minister our parishioners’ funerals, albeit at St. Timothy for the month of January.

We understand the strong bond many have for St. Catherine church and regret the necessary but temporary imposition. Thank you for your patience and understanding as we undergo this important work to help maintain and improve our beautiful church.
I am grateful to our staff whose assistance has been to initiating and completing the many vital projects throughout the parish. Special thanks to all our generous parishioners who make the continued care and improvements of the church and school possible.

God bless you. Father Donohoe