As has been reported, the Diocese has been blocked, at least temporarily, from continuing their illegal demolition work on the Chancery. Therefore, we don’t think we will need to call for the “Human Chain” of protection at this time.

But this is a fluid situation. Things could change and we will respond as necessary depending on what happens with the request the Diocese has made for a demolition Permit.

We are also concerned that they could go forward with plans to demolish the historic convent on the site, which also deserves protection.

I also wanted to add my perspective that in no way should the demolition contractor be blamed for what has happened. He was just responding to the Diocese search for a demolition contractor. In fact, his effort to salvage and sell the artifacts was his way of at least saving some of the historic items from the landfill. That being said, I hope we can purchase as many items back so that they can be restored in the future.