Questions and Answers Part I
Blessed John 23rd – FAQ’s for 2/28/10 Bulletin
Why is it called a Religious Education Center, what does this mean?
At the heart of the Blessed John XXIII Religious Education Center will be the relocated Catholic Elementary school of St. Anne. This new facility will offer additional, and much needed space for the Religious Education Ministry of St. John Neumann, as well as the Youth Ministry. The Religious Education Center will also provide opportunities for St. John Neumann to solidify our Catholic Community through social gatherings and parish-wide activities.
What are the priorities in terms of the building?
Based on the feasibility study conducted in the spring of 2009, increased space for religious education and relocating St. Anne School were the first priorities. Additional space for parish-wide gatherings is the second priority. The timing of completion of this new space will be based on the continued generosity of our parish family.
When will the project get underway, and how long will it take?
Based on the regulations of the Diocese, we will be able to break ground when 50% of the cost of the project is in the bank. With your generosity, we hope to break ground in the summer of 2012. The good news is that we have township approval to move forward with the Blessed John XXIII Religious Education Center. So it really is up to us to be as generous as possible. Once ground is broken, it will take approximately 12-14 months to complete the facility. If this timeframe is met, the new facility will open its doors in September 2013.
If we cannot raise all of the money, are there contingency plans in place?
The good news is that we do not have to make any final decisions right now. We are currently investigating a number of options that will provide the greatest flexibility in the new facility as well as provide for our greatest need – additional educational space. Our hope is that through the generosity of every member of our parish and school family, we will be able to build the Blessed John XXIII Religious Education Center as it is currently planned. When the pledge period for the campaign is concluded, we will be able to better understand the financial picture and finalize our plan accordingly.
How will the school support itself once it is built?
The majority of operational expenses are expected to be covered by the tuition. The classroom space will double the size of the school and there is a marketing plan under consideration to maximize the number of students at the school. As is happening currently, if a parish is sending students to a Catholic school, the parish supports that school as well. Currently St. John Neumann sends support to St. Anne and to Catholic High. It is expected that there will be a mix of students from different parishes at the Blessed John XXIII Religious Education Center