Re-Dedication Mass

          In this the Year of the Eucharist, Our Lady of Fatima celebrated the renovation of its church building with a solemn rededication. On Saturday afternoon October 15^th, nearly 350 parishioners participated in the Mass of Dedication led by Archbishop Charles J. Chaput. The event signified the culmination of a yearlong project that is part of the parish’s Remembering our roots…building our future Capital Campaign.

            Archbishop Chaput spoke of a new beginning for the church and its faith family and hoped that Our Lady of Fatima would become a “…shining light that supports the Archdiocese of Denver.”

            As part of the dedication Archbishop Chaput sprinkled holy water throughout the sanctuary and blessed the altar with Sacred Chrism. Candles were lit and incense filled the sanctuary signifying the rising of prayers to heaven.  “It was a wonderful service,” Andy Bryce said. “It brought tears to my eyes.”

            Monsignor Nickless, who enjoyed the company of his parents in the congregation, agreed.  “I feel honored that Archbishop Chaput took time out from his busy schedule to join us and to dedicate our new church.  Everything went as planned. Mary Ives and the choir did a wonderful job adding to the joyous atmosphere. It was just a beautiful service and I feel blessed to be a part of it.”

            The success of the Remembering our roots…building our future Capital Campaign allowed Our Lady of Fatima to move ahead with the renovation project. Parishioners have donated more than $1.9 million in gifts and pledges towards the $2 million goal.

            “Fr. Kevin and I have so many people we would like to thank for their service to the campaign,” Monsignor told the congregation Saturday evening.  “The architects who worked with Deacon John on the design, Pat Cox the general contractor, our General Chairs, Lee and Pat Miller and Bob and Patti Zarlengo. So many have been instrumental in us reaching this point. So many of you who have made your pledge. I thank you. We are so close to our goal and with your help we will make it.”

            Monsignor also thanked Deacon John for the work he put in making the vision become a reality,  “Deacon has been working about 20 hours a day,” Monsignor said. “Earlier today he was doing some work on the Altar. He is a man who has truly dedicated himself to his work. If you look up the word dedication in the dictionary you will see Deacon John’s face there.”

The congregation responded by honoring Deacon with a standing ovation. A fitting tribute for one whom has done so much for the project.

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