By Jeff Peters
Catholic Herald correspondent

Remodeling brings new life to old rectory

PARK FALLS -- Even Fr. Jim Jackson admits the parish "had help from above" when he talks about the almost completed remodeling project at the St. Anthony rectory.

"It is truly amazing how this project all came together," said Jackson from the comfort of his new office in the rectory, a Park Falls landmark built in 1921. "I truly believe the good Lord was watching over us during the remodeling effort. It all just fell into place at the right time."

But he also admits it also took a lot of hard work from parishioners, townspeople, friends and family both near and far. "My brother, Andrew Jackson, came from Rhinelander to install the carpet with his friend. They joined the long list of volunteers who made this all possible. This is how this was accomplished."

Jackson said the historic brick building, which now features five bedrooms, four and a half bathrooms, a complete kitchen, great room, dining area, office, study, sitting room and sun porch (and let's not forget the working gas fireplace) is the pride and joy of the parish and community.

"Everyone who tours the rectory can't believe the transformation that has taken place," said Jackson, who now lives at the rectory. "They are really happy to see this building saved and utilized in this manner. It is a solid, well-built building, far too good to tear down."

Thanks to volunteer labor and donations of material and equipment, Jackson said the remodeling project actually cost less than tearing down the building and disposing the debris at a landfill.

"The entire project, including donations of materials, was under $100,000. And the parish hasn't spent a dime of the project," he said, noting a $10,000 donation from St. Francis of Assisi Parish in nearby Fifield and a $60,000 grant from the Catholic Church Extension Society, along with over $20,000 in donations from parish members, were major sources of funding.

Jackson said he wants the building to host many parish events. "I can see this building all decked out for Christmas, with several Christmas trees on the front porch welcoming members of the parish to celebrate together.

"It will also host other events -- parish council meetings, other church- and school-related meetings and gatherings. A place to celebrate and gather," the pastor said, adding the basement will be turned into a youth center in the near future.

"It will be a wonderful space for the kids," Jackson said. "I want the kids to work on the project to make it their own place. I hope they will help paint the room in the colors they want and help decorate the space with their artwork and maybe a mural."

He said the they plan to have a pool and Ping-Pong tables and other games, along with a kitchenette where the kids can make snacks. He said parents would chaperone the kids at the youth center. "I just want everyone to feel they are a part of this wonderful facility," Jackson said, "so they all have a sense of ownership when they're here."

< Local Archives

© Superior Catholic Herald, 2002