Restoration Project - St. James in Colgan, ON

We are looking for your generous assistance with regards to our restoration project for St. James Parish in Colgan, Ontario.

The total cost of the project is estimated to be in excess of $4M to be phased in over several years.

Numerous building condition reports over the years have identified significant deterioration of the masonry of St. James as a priority. A follow up report in 2023 has estimated that the restoration of each tower and side of the church will take place on a seasonal nature due to the nature of the work, and cost approximately $1M per phase.

Each phase will require extensive scaffolding; the complete removal of surface paint; the replacement of broken, cracked and crumbling brick; mortar re-pointing; a rebuilding of damaged trim; and restaining of the brick to preserve the historic appearance.

In addition, there is need for replacement of the damaged front doors; foundation waterproofing and drainage; chimney restoration; slate roofing; replacement of soffit, fascia and gutters; stained glass and sill repairs; replacement of the wooden louvre; and a dismantling and rebuilding of the front planters to access the foundation of the building.

In 2023, overhead protection was installed to protect against loose and falling cement due to the extensive deterioration found by the engineers and actual debris collected from around the perimeter of the building.

In January 2024, our two boilers became inoperable due to age and regular wear and tear. Although emergency heating units were installed, a more permanent solution requiring additional funds will also be needed.

Our hope is that significant fundraising will take place during the upcoming year and beyond with the first phase of the project going to tender with the expectation that work will begin in early 2025.

As such, although we have targeted $500K as a preliminary goal for our Go Fund Me page coinciding with the beginning of the Lenten season, we are hopeful that donors will be generous for the upcoming years above and beyond the prescribed target.

Established in 1830, St. James is among the top five oldest church structures in the Archdiocese of Toronto.

Thank you in advance for your thoughtful consideration in supporting this project.