July 27, 2015
It is difficult to dismiss something you see, and see with frequency. So parishioners and friends stepped up when the need for repairs at St. Austin Church in Austin, Texas, became all too apparent.
In fact, “stepped up” may be an understatement, as $4.5 million has been pledged, exceeding the $4 million capital campaign goal. The campaign had a very healthy 30 percent response rate, according to St. Austin’s pastor, Father Charles Kullmann.
“We have very generous parishioners,” he said, “parishioners who want us to continue our mission here. We are grateful to them, and thank them.”
One of the reasons behind the success of the campaign, Father Kullmann said, is that people could actually see the pockmarks in the façade of the church and rectory buildings that are the result of spalling – stones that have fallen off the building fronts, in this case due to corroding support brackets. Although the buildings are structurally sound, falling stones present a safety hazard as people frequent the many stores and eateries on busy Guadalupe Street, also known as “the drag,” that borders the campus of the University of Texas at Austin.
“The need is obvious,” said Father Kullmann.
The improvement project also includes the expansion and handicapped compliance of the restroom facilities in the church and additional space for a children’s Liturgy of the Word in the rectory. The work is to be completed by Sixthriver Architects in approximately 18-24 months. The visibility and curb appeal of the church building will be greatly enhanced, perhaps attracting passers-by to the parish.
“I hope it will help us become more inviting and outreaching,” Father Kullmann said.