Concerned Catholics of Boone County: It’s an insult to destroy St. James Church in Belvidere - Rockford, IL

Wednesday, August 15, 2012

It’s an insult to destroy St. James Church in Belvidere - Rockford, IL - Rockford Register Star

Letter: It’s an insult to destroy St. James Church in Belvidere

Shame on 88 members of Belvidere’s St James congregation who were squeezed at Giovanni’s for another $250,000. These funds will contribute to the destruction of the 1886 immigrant-built historical St. James Church.
The wealthy elite aspire for recognition like the pioneers, Malone, Sullivan, McGonical, O’Brien, Moan, Kennedy and the Rev. McGuire, whose names were inscribed in stained glass windows 125 years ago.
The enduring difference, all donors will be remembered not for what they built but for what they destroyed. Shame on those who are silent and let a few be their voice of opposition. Don’t be afraid, speak up. Cancel your pledge. Such an insult to destroy this beloved church for an insignificant 20-space parking lot.
Shame on the Rockford Diocese, for ignoring hundreds of communications, never responding to anyone’s question of “why?” Shame on those who relaxed Diocesan funding rules, enabling the “Building on our Faith” campaign to press forward with minimum pledges. Millions borrowed will be a crushing future debt!
When the 19th century bell is silenced, and the Irish Celtic cross is lowered, the city of Belvidere, St James parishioners, and many across the Rockford Dioceses will remorse the destruction and desecration of this sacred ground.
— Robert A Casey, Belvidere