In December 2020, the community of St. John Cassian Chapel (a dependency of the Monastery of the Glorious Ascension in Resaca, GA) purchased an old church building at 1731 13th Street North in the McNeil Park neighborhood of Bessemer, AL. Renovations began the following year, and by Great Lent of 2022, the community joyously started worshipping in their new temple, marking a significant milestone in the life of their mission. The successful fundraiser for constructing an iconostasis, which added beauty and functionality to the new temple, was completed during Great Lent this year, making the space suitable for Orthodox worship.

However, the journey has not been without its challenges. The community has faced numerous setbacks, including many improperly done or unfinished repairs from the initial renovation, and had several windows broken last year in a random act of vandalism. One significant issue arose last year when a catastrophic plumbing failure after Holy Pascha necessitated taking on $20,000 in debt to install new sewer lines ‒ a task that should have been completed by the contractor during the initial renovations. By the grace of God, through the intercessions of St. John Cassian, and with the generosity of friends and donors both inside and outside the parish, this loan, initially set for a 10-year term, was paid off in under 18 months.

Despite these achievements, two critical issues have recently emerged: a leaking roof over the rear addition and a sinking foundation under the corner of the fellowship hall, likely caused by last year’s sewer line excavation.

Addressing these immediate repairs is essential, but the chapel community aims for more than temporary fixes. Their vision includes long-term solutions to ensure the chapel’s sustainability and structural integrity for years to come. The plans involve a total reconstruction of the fellowship hall, a new roof system, new gutters, and finishing the upstairs with permanent spaces for Sunday School, a large flex-use area, a small room with an ensuite bathroom for temporary lodging, and a larger parish library. Additionally, they plan to repair the sidewalks damaged during the sewer repair and re-engineer the side handicap access.

To realize these goals, the chapel is currently obtaining quotes for steel building structures. They estimate that at least $100,000 will be needed to begin this comprehensive project. The community plans to undertake as much of the work themselves as can be done safely and legally.

In an extraordinary act of generosity, an anonymous donor who has previously supported small Orthodox missions in America, including St. Herman of Alaska Mission in Show Low, AZ, has offered to match every dollar raised up to $50,000. This means if the chapel raises $50,000, the donor will contribute an additional $50,000, enabling the community to reach their $100,000 target. The campaign will be launched online in the coming week, using GoFundMe as a platform for gathering outside contributions and support for the project.

This matching-funds opportunity is a tremendous blessing, significantly aiding the completion of necessary repairs and improvements. It will also enable the chapel to expand its facilities and enhance its ability to serve the community, launching St. John Cassian Chapel into the next phase of its existence.

The chapel community humbly asks for generous support during this crucial time. Contributions, no matter the size, will profoundly impact and bring the community closer to its goal. Together, they aim to ensure that St. John Cassian Chapel remains a beacon of faith, hope, and love for many years to come.

The link to the GoFundMe is: https://gofund.me/a00c5577.