Construction Update: What It Will Take to Begin Rebuilding St. Anthony’s

We want to give you a clear and honest update on where we stand in rebuilding St. Anthony’s—and what it will take to move forward.

Right now, we are actively working behind the scenes on every aspect of this project. Plans are being refined, meetings are happening with the City and Diocese, and we are preparing everything needed to begin construction.

This is the recovered Jesus from the crucifix that hung behind our altar since our church was dedicated in 1961. From ashes to hope—what was lost will help rebuild what comes next.

But there is one reality we must be clear about:

We cannot break ground until we raise $3 million in cash.

This is not a long-term goal—it is the immediate requirement to begin building.

While pledges are vital to the success of this campaign, cash on hand is what allows us to start. Before any construction can begin, we must have the funds available to secure financing, finalize contracts, and move forward with confidence.

At this time, we are still approximately $3 million short of that starting point.

What’s Happening Right Now

In addition to fundraising, there are critical steps already in motion.

One of the most significant is the relocation of a sewer line that currently runs beneath our building site. The City has advised that this process—due to permits, coordination, and scheduling—will take approximately 3–4 months once initiated.

At the same time, we are continuing to:

• Finalize architectural and engineering plans

• Prepare documents for permits and bidding

• Work through diocesan approvals

• Coordinate with lenders to secure construction financing

All of these pieces must come together before we can begin. Even if one piece is missing—whether it’s funding, permits, or final construction numbers—we cannot move forward.

The Reality of the Project

The estimated cost to build the church and complete site work is currently around $19 million, with a broader campaign goal of $8 million to help fund the project.

Insurance has provided a significant portion of the funding—currently a little over $10 million—and we continue to work with the insurance company to recover additional amounts for items such as our organ and other losses.

However, insurance alone is not enough to complete this project.

Once construction begins, the timeline to completion is expected to be 18–24 months.

We are moving forward—but we are also being responsible.We cannot begin construction until we are fully prepared financially and logistically.

What This Means for All of Us

Many have asked:“When will construction begin?”

The honest answer is:

As soon as we reach the funding required to begin.

This is the moment where your support makes the difference.

How You Can Help Right Now

If you have already made a pledge—thank you. That commitment matters.

But right now, we especially need:

Cash and check donations to help us reach $3 million

This is what allows us to take the next step.

You can also help by expanding our reach:

• Share our campaign with your family, friends, and coworkers

• Post about it on social media

• Invite others to be part of rebuilding St. Anthony’s

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👉 Text CAMPAIGN to 520-839-3836

👉 Visit stanthonycg.org

We Are Close—But Not There Yet

We are not starting from zero. We have momentum. We have plans. We have a vision.

But we are at a critical point where progress depends on participation.

We can’t begin without reaching this goal.

Every gift moves us closer.

Every person you invite expands what’s possible.