SAVE ST BRIGID'S                                           BULLETIN #13

                                                                        July 26th, 2006

1. Art Cuenco opened the meeting with a prayer and blessing for the Archbishop, and asked for guidance in our deliberation to save the church.

2. The chair discussed it briefly, the items from the meeting last week, but particularly the activities that occurred in the press and media. After the filing of the Request for a Judicial Review, the lawyers invited the Citizen's Partick Dare to do an article, which was augmented by a picture in front of the church with Marilyn Donoghue. The CBC's Paul Morriset did an interview for the 6:00 news. Coverage was also done by CTV on the evening and late news.

3. Business

The chair reported that the lawyers were working on the case to follow up on the actual transfer of the priests slated for the end of August.

The roof was also discussed in detail, and the prudence to start it now, when we were not assured of the future of the church. It was determined that the responsible approach would be to commence the specifications and the tender process which would take most of August to get the heritage data together with accurate pricing, and then determine whether it was feasible to proceed. This process in lieu of waiting for decisions was the most appropriate, and if necessary leans could be looked         into, after the roof is completed. The materials considered will be metal to resemble slate, rather than asphalt which seems not to be able to stand up to the warrantees. Heritage specifications will be prepared in conjunction with the Ontario Heritage Foundation. Parishioners who were aware of contractors who wished to bid were to approach Marilyn Donoghue with names.

Postcards were provided both in French and English for parishioners who wish to send them off to the Archbishop or give them to friends and supporters. Discussions followed regarding the printing of 4,000 at a cost of $450. As there are no funds available (we cannot expend church funds on this project) a number of parishioners        came forward with the financial commitment. It was also suggested that a fund to be set up for this type of project, so that we will have revenue for expenses.     Envelopes will be provided for those parishioners who wish to contribute to the Task Force Initiative. The Task Force has already signed a commitment for the court            costs. Sister Essie suggested she had a printer who perhaps could do it for less, which will be investigated.

The Commemorative Mass is scheduled for August 13th, and the evening before will be planned for an evening of Celtic music, dancing and food. Julliene White and Alice Hilchie will plan the mass, hopefully with the choir. Special invitations will be sent out to honored guests, and the program will take into consideration all the events of that day in 1890. A program will also be developed as a keepsake. Names were requested of older parishioners and former parishioners who have a history with the church.

Consideration and discussion took place regarding the Open House, where individuals could talk to the press, while the video was running, and tours of the building could take place. (in lieu of a press conference). A good time would be Sunday after mass. It was emphasized however that we stay focused on the approach we are      taking, and no to go backward. We have court proceeding and much emphasis should be placed on getting the business case together or proposal for keeping the church and options for fund raising. The article in the newspaper this week regarding an arts community with concert activities is worth pursuing.

4. The meeting closed with a prayer from Art Cuenco.

THE MEETING WILL BE HELD WEDNESDAY AUGUST 2ND - 7:30 PM IN THE HALL.