Mission of Our Lady of the Angels
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| Why was Fr. Bob stunned? When Fr. Bob rode into this town a few years ago, he didn't know what to expect. He thought, pensively, "I wonder what kind of people live in this City? Where is Humboldt Park? How will I ever renovate the rectory,..... and then Kelly Hall, ......AND then the Convent?" (with virtually no money....) |
On August 10, 2008, we posted an update on the renovation of Kelly Hall. We also posted information about Fr. Bob's need to renovate the convent which will house college kids coming to volunteer with the Urban Plunge and other service programs. The renovation will also allow Fr. Bob to accommodate larger groups that want to come to the Mission for retreats. Since Fr. Bob has virtually no budget to renovate the convent, various groups and individuals volunteered to take on portions of the convent so that it, too, could be complete sooner rather than later. |
| With his ever cheerful demeanor and eternal hope, he prayed, as he still does, with confidence to God, for help from his friends and those who would soon become his friends - in Chicago and across the country. |
| His prayers have been and continue to be answered - but not just by those he knows, but by complete strangers- some anonymously. It was only with your help that the Mission has become more than just a dream. We aren't just saying that. It's the truth! Here's an example: |
| We noticed that he actually seems to be glowing. |
| At first he was shocked by your generosity. (Seriously, he was. He walked around one whole day just saying, "I can't believe how generous people are! Isn't God great?!" ) |
| Fr. Bob was stunned, and for good reason. In less than 30 days, here are just some of the things that were donated from various individuals, businesses, and organizations: 160 gallons of white paint 60 room air conditioners 60 beds sheets for all 60 beds desks for the 40 bedrooms dining room furniture tuck pointing of chimney & back wall help with clean up and painting by a university group clean up and restoration of the area around the old boiler a computer and monitor all the furniture needed for the common areas - couches, chairs, end tables, etc. beautiful pure oak wooden doors and... An inquiry from a pastor indicating that his parish wants to become actively involved in the good work of the Mission!!!! Father Bob was soooooo happy. |
When Fr. Bob gets back from his silent retreat and sees these photos, your humble web master may get fired from this volunteer job! : )
| He floated as if a huge burden had been lifted from his shoulders. |
| Your generosity did not stop there. Every week, Fr. Bob gets calls from complete stranger who have heard of the Mission and want to be part of the good work being done here. |
| If you live in the Chicagoland area or happen to be passing through, please stop by and see the good work that is taking place here. Now that the Kelly Hall YMCA has been opened, hope is palpable as the parents sit on the bleachers on Saturday morning watching their children grow strong in mind and body. |
| Thanks to everyone who has helped make the Mission dream a reality. |