St. Gianna Parish makes progress toward opening

The new St. Gianna Parish in Wentzville is another step closer to opening. The city of Lake St. Louis has approved a special-use permit for a temporary church in a warehouse building about a mile from the permanent site of the parish.

The parish is in territory previously served by St. Patrick Parish in Wentzville and Immaculate Conception Parish in Dardenne Prairie. It is the first new parish in St. Charles County since 1981 when Sts. Joachim and Ann Parish was founded.

Father Timothy Elliott, pastor of St. Gianna, said the occupancy permit could be issued in about a month. It would take six to eight weeks of work on the building, he said.

As I understand it, the new church will be an real church rather than some modernistic monstrosity devoid of sacred character. I have heard rumors of seeking the service of a well known architect (at least, in orthodox Catholic circles) - however, as this is unconfirmed, I will not mention who it is.

From what I can gather, there are many who are looking forward to seeing this new parish start and grow.