SAINT SYLVESTER ORATORY RESTORATION PROJECT

Imagine hearing the ring and peal of the church bell calling worshippers to a religious service, the dim light of candles illuminating the presence of gatherers, the glorious sound from the old pump organ and our Eucharist in the sacrifice of the Mass. The 20 by 40 food wooden- framed space is small but alive with the presence of Jesus Christ. The Call is to come worship with us in this gem of antiquity. The first Mass was offered at Saint Sylvester in 1888.

Father Paul Joseph Volk (1841-1919) built twenty-four churches in his live time. Saint Sylvester in East Bernstadt is the only church in Central or Eastern Kentucky which is still standing today. Recently a mission church of Saint William Catholic Church in London, Kentucky, Saint Sylvester is now an oratory. Currently Masses are celebrated five times a year, as well as baptisms, weddings, and funerals. Saint Sylvester is also the site of an old but still active cemetery. Descendants of those early immigrants from foreign lands continue to live in the area and with many others support the work begun by Paul Volk over 125 years ago.

The people, who came before us, have provided a church. We now have the opportunity to make certain that the church that has been provided for us will be here for generations to come. May these immigrant people be an inspiration to each of us as we continue the spiritual journey. Let us now leave a legacy to those who will come after us and build on their foundation. What a difference your support could make.

Saint Sylvester is self-funded. The church building is in serious and urgent need of restoration. Donations to Saint Sylvester Oratory are appreciated and can be made to Saint William Catholic Church - memo line - St. Sylvester Restoration.

CONTACT INFORMATION:

Web Site - http://www.cdlex.org/london

Email: Tracy House - tracyhouse12@hotmail.com
Kelly Hixon - hixonandcompany@msn.com

Mail: Saint William Catholic Church
521 West Fifth Street
London, KY 40741

Phone: (606) 864-7500


SAINT SYLVESTER I, POPE

St. Sylvester was elected as Pope on the 31st of January 314. He occupied the chair of Saint Peter for twenty-four years and eleven months. He died on the 31st of December 335. St. Sylvester's feast day is celebrated on December 31


PRAYER:
Lord come to the aid of Your people who are supported by the intercession of St. Sylvester, Your Pope. May they pass the present life under Your guidance so that they may have happiness of attaining eternal life in Heaven. Amen