Church remodeling should be done by Christmas

It may not rival the new gigantic cathedral looming over downtown Los Angeles, but St. Jude’s Catholic Church in Westlake Village is well on its way to again open its doors to parishioners dislocated by extensive renovations.

The construction, which began in June, is just phase one of a larger plan for the parish, according to Marilyn Grebbien, the capital campaign coordinator for St. Jude’s. Work on the church itself is expected to be completed by mid-December.

"We’re looking forward to being back in the church by Christmas," said Grebbien.

The renovation is intended to give the church a facelift and modernize its heating and air conditioning systems, as well as bring the church into conformity with standards established by the Vatican by placing the baptismal font near the entrance.

Although the building’s footprint will remain the same, the sacristy, where the sacred utensils and vestments are kept, will be slightly enlarged and handicap access will be added to the building. The demolition work involved in the repair is nearly finished, according to contractor Tim Artner. The foundation and footings have been replaced to support new steel-centered columns and the underground ductwork is 75 percent complete.

Even without a church in which to conduct Mass, the parish has continued its regular activities, holding ceremonies in the parish hall, and has even begun a program called Loaves and Fishes to help the homeless and needy in Ventura County.

Since the money for the renovation work comes from parishioners rather than the diocese, the next phase of the parish’s renovation will begin as finances permit, according to Grebbien.

––Gregory Koteles