DEAR ST. MICHAEL’S COMMUNITY,

Happy Thanksgiving!

Now is the time of year we make an annual appeal, for either a parish ministry or campus improvement. As you probably know, we experienced two break-ins last spring: first in the church; then in the rectory, with the thief stealing a tabernacle containing the Blessed Sacrament. Those events spurred a two-phase project to improve safety and security on our grounds.

Phase One completed between June and August: installing more security cameras and an alarm system; replacing doors and changing door codes; and increasing the height of the garden fence. The total cost of Phase One was $25,000--all-expenses paid, thanks to generous donors.

Phase Two will include placing additional lights in the courtyard; installing a doorbell/camera system in parish offices; and moving the parking area fence to enclose the Mill Street/Newman Center door. Our aim for the fence reconfiguration is to enhance safety for all approaching the entrance, and to remove the possibility for overnight camping. We estimate the total cost of Phase Two will be $25,000.

To support these plans with a donation, please visit stmichaelportland.org/donate. From the dropdown “Fund” menu, choose “Security Upgrade.” Or give via Venmo, @StMichaelPortland. If you prefer to give by cash or check, note “Security Upgrade” on the envelope or memo line.

If we raise more funds than needed for this project, we will allocate to other maintenance needs.

Thank you for your ongoing generosity to St. Michael the Archangel Catholic Church.

Paz y bien,

Fr. Ignacio Llorente, Pastor

Site plan elevation drawing of security improvements