Blessed Sacrament Church finally got some of the T.L.C. it has been praying for.
“We always knew it needed some renovation, but we had no idea of the extent,” said Marvella Lovely, parishioner and member of the finance committee.
The church held its grand reopening Sunday morning – after almost two years.
Eager parishioners were pleased to see improvements in details they adored prior to restorations.
“I don’t know how else to describe it. It just has something special about it, that we come and we look at the windows – even when they weren’t as clean as they are now,” said Lovely.
Father Barry Anwelder said the church spent the last month” test driving” the building – holding regular masses – in anticipation of the reopening.
A certified engineer with a Master’s degree – Anwelder oversaw plans for the renovation.
“We still have lots of work to do. But, I’m just hoping and praying for some stability, because there has been a lot of change in the last five years,” said Anwelder.
Built in 1905, Blessed Sacrament – located in the heart of Regina’s downtown – is the second oldest church in the city.
Fast forward over 100 years and the building’s weathered walls were crumbling.
“The bell tower was peeling off the side of the building,” said the church’s music director, Gaetan Hammond. “Father told me a few times that had we not done this work we would have had to condemn the building.”
Renovations include roof structural repairs, attic insulation replacement and a new structural skeleton for the church bells.
Church officials said the repairs totaled “hundreds of thousands of dollars.”
No matter the cost or time frame to finish repairs, Lovely said she believes the church is worth it.
“I think it will look wonderful. And, it will be even more warm and welcoming than anyone could ever imagine,” she said.
All renovations are slated for completion by the end of next year.
