Bp Callahan dedicates renovated Rapids church

The Ss. Peter and Paul Catholic Church congregation in Wisconsin Rapids got a special Christmas gift this year.

Parishioners have the chance to celebrate today's services in their remodeled church with a recently installed pastor, the Rev. James Altman. Members saw the redecorated building for the first time Sunday, when Bishop William P. Callahan of the Diocese of La Crosse installed Altman to the ministry position and blessed the church.

In October, Altman told parishioners they should think of the church renovations as a Christmas present -- no peeking in advance; it should be a present they could all open together. He also didn't want curious church members slowing down the workers as they rushed to get the job done in time for the holidays. Most of the members complied with the request and saw the work for the first time at the dedication ceremonies.

"So many walked into the church, opening the Christmas present for the first time with such awe and joy; it was awesome to see them," Altman said.

People packed the building for the service, said Philip Kosloski, pastoral associate. The church congregation consists of about 580 families and has an average attendance of 1,200 to 1,400 people each week. Church members who attended services in the school's gym since mid-October during the construction had nothing but positive things to say about the remodeling job.

more at Wis Rapids Trib


The parish is online and has a nice blog.  They keep things pretty up to date but no photos yet of the finished product.