Built in 1915 by the Polish Immigrants of Jackson, Michigan, the St. Joseph School at 717 North Waterloo Ave has been a landmark for the local Polish Community for generations. While no longer used as a school, time and time again it has served the community as a social center. 

In January of 2022, it was announced through MLive that the beautiful and historic building is slated for a June demolition due to the “overwhelming costs” to maintain it. However, this building was built to last, and the majority of the issues with the building stem from the need of new roofing and bathrooms. Now, the building has been completely gutted and scrapped, and sits empty, waiting for the wrecking ball to arrive. 

Members of the St. Joseph Oratory do NOT want to see their Social Center demolished. This building is being prayed over by members of the Oratory so it can be saved. I have personally listened to multiple members of the Oratory who want to see it sold and converted in a new way that can assist the community, such as apartments. The building is structurally stable, and has already been cleared of all asbestos. It’s up to the Diocese of Lansing to halt its demolition and find a suitable purchaser willing to make the necessary improvements and updates. Members of the Oratory offered to fix the roof, but their offer was declined. 

It’s up to the people of Jackson to make noise in order to save this building.