It’s been noted that the Santo Cristo Shrine has been in need of renovation to ensure that it is a fitting memorial to Our Lord’s Passion.
The members of the Society started the removal and preservation of the articles in the alcove where the shrine has been for many years, and an investigation as to the physical condition was started.
It was worse than we thought.
Because of water ingress, and the renovations done when the chapel was built, a layer of plastic sheeting was placed under the carpet padding which prevented proper ventilation of the platform. The wood underpinnings are totally destroyed, as is the wood floor and carpet and padding.
Also, due to the ingress of water and pooling under the platform, water damage to the walls has pushed the paint and top plaster layer off the foundation:
The Society is actively soliciting donations to help us:
- Remediate, by installing the same drainage system in place in the Blessed Sacrament Chapel, the water problems in the Santo Cristo Chapel
- Remediate the rotted wood platform and re-surface it with suitable materials
- Repair the damaged plaster and repaint the walls
- Rebuild the altar on which Our Lord is displayed for re-installation.
For a start.
For now, elements of Santo Cristo have been moved to the St. Joseph Chapel.
We invite you to stop by St. Anne and see for yourself, and pray that we will be successful in restoring this chapel to its proper place in the Shrine. All donations will be earmarked for renovating and preserving Santo Cristo!