Restorations under way at St. Bernard

Restorations, repairs, and new construction have been underway for quite some time at St. Bernard Abbey and Prep School.  Under the direction of Fr. Marcus Voss, who serves as the Director of Development,  a capital campaign has been initiated to assist in these projects.  Called “The Campaign for St. Bernard” the primary goal is the restoration of the St. Bernard Library.  In addition, other projects have been undertaken for the betterment of the St. Bernard campus. 

Abbey workers have been busy restoring the recreation house which sits to the south of the Monastery Building.  The traditional stone-cut building has been sitting idle for the past thirty years, and is now being revitalized.  The first phase has been the installation of a new roof and will soon be followed by new windows and doors.

The classroom building is receiving  a new roof as well.  Workers from Thomas Roofing Company were began the roofing project in December 2013.  A gabled roof will replace the flat room which has had continued problems because of leaks.  This work is expected to be completed by early March. 

Abbey construction crews   are in the process of adding covered parking areas to protect  the vehicles used by the Abbey monks.   The open-air garage has a cement foundation with a metal roof and provides much needed additional parking.

All of these works are possible because of generous donations made by friends and alumni of St. Bernard.  More information about “The Campaign for St. Bernard” will be made available throughout 2014.  “The campaign is a vital program for the future of St. Bernard and sustaining the growth in our Abbey and School,” said Fr. Marcus.  “It’s a special time in our history – one that presents us with unique opportunities.   I will be grateful for everyone who helps us meet the challenges before us.”

For more information about ”The Campaign for St. Bernard” contact Fr. Marcus at 256-531-2010 or frmarcus@stbernardprep.com.