Work has started on the stairs at Sts. Peter and Paul. We think the outside stairs (at least part of them) are original to this century old church. They’ve held up well over many decades, but as you can see from the picture, they are in rough shape. Repairs just won’t do anymore.

Accessibility is also an issue, not only because the broken and uneven stairs pose a tripping hazard, but the ramp is inadequate. It is way too steep, far steeper than building standards would allow to be built today. While there is an elevator on the north side, it’s very small, suitable for just a few people at a time, and impossible to fit a casket for funerals.

So, along with the front steps, the ramp is going away. A new ramp will be built on the south side for easier access. The south exposure will help keep the ramp free of snow and ice during the winter. Moving the ramp will also improve the appearance of the church’s “face”—an important first impression for people walking up to it as part of their visit to the Grotto or for Sunday Mass. The south side ramp will be constructed first before work begins on the front.

Many people have donated to this project already, putting us well over halfway toward our project goal. Thank you so much! Please consider giving today to reach the $170,000 needed for this construction which will add beauty and accessibility to Sts. Peter and Paul for decades to come.

This south entrance will soon have a more accessible ramp.


The south steps have been removed.