The interior of Assumption Church in Windsor is seen on May 10, 2019. Photo by Mark Brown/Blackburn News.The interior of Assumption Church in Windsor is seen on May 10, 2019. Photo by Mark Brown/Blackburn News.
Windsor

Assumption Church will be open for Mass September 8

It is an announcement five years in the making, but Thursday morning parishioners at Windsor's Assumption Church learned they would return.

"The parish is moving back into that historic building permanently," said Paul Mullins, the volunteer behind much of the fundraising effort for renovations.

The church will be open in time for the 11 o'clock mass on September 8.

The announcement comes in time for the Feast Day of the Lady of Assumption.

Paul Mullins, left, and Father Maurice Restivo show off one of the copper shingles that will be used in the restoration of historic Assumption Church, May 10, 2019. Photo by Mark Brown/Blackburn News.

The roof is finished on the 77-year-old landmark. Mullins said 600 people sponsored roof tiles for $250 each, raising $150,000. He said they were able to recognize those donors and past donors by placing their names on the back of the shingles.

"The plasterwork [inside the building] is still required to be done, but we believe that can be ongoing while we occupy the church," said Mullins.

Since the church was forced to close in 2014, parishioners have been attending mass at Holy Names Church. They will still have to use the basement at Holy Names for some functions and the garage.

Local philanthropist Al Quesnel has pledged to match $5 million in donations raised in the community. So far, fundraising efforts have netted $2.25 million.

The renovations are expected to cost between $14 million and $20 million.

The church closed in 2014.

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