WAKEMAN—After the completion of an eight-month renovation process, Wakeman St. Mary was rededicated Dec. 6.

Bishop Leonard P. Blair stands with Bob Matus, who volunteered his time as general contractor for the Wakeman St. Mary renovation last year. In appreciation for this work, Mr. Matus was presented with a framed collage of aerial photos of the renovated church. (Photo courtesy of Wakeman St. Mary)

Parishioner Bob Matus volunteered his gifts and time as the general contractor of the 138-year-old church. Two of the subcontractors were also parishioners: Mike and Bill Hanko of Hanko Farm completed excavating and cement work and Fred and Todd Wolf of Wolf Construction framed the new and old buildings. Other parishioners volunteered their time daily by painting, cleaning and assisting contractors.

The renovation included reinforcement, insulation and adding seating capacity to fit up to 250 people. Other parts of the renovation included widening aisles and adding a cry room, handicapped accessible restroom, a bride/usher room, handicapped ramp, storage area and a large room to be used for the children’s liturgy of the word.

Bishop Leonard P. Blair celebrated the rededication Mass, which was followed by a dinner and program.