FAQ's

• Can this be successful?

  • Yes! It is permissible under Canon law.  Furthermore, over 80 churches have been preserved by the Catholic laity, across the United States, Canada and Australia.   This process has been successfully done for decades world-wide.  

• Why support the preservation of a Catholic sacred space?

  • The central location of Holy Family reminds many people of all walks of life who pass it each day of God's love for them.

  • The historical significance reminds many that impoverished and struggling immigrants came together as a community to prioritize family and faith, and built such a magnificent edifice for themselves and future generations in order to worship God.  Our society benefits from these inspirational reminders from Auburn's history.

  • The artistic and architectural beauty of Holy Family, along with its many statues and inspirational stained glass depictions of the Saints and figures from the Old and New testaments, draw many people into a deeper state of communion with God and with the Catholic community through all the ages.

• Is. H.O.P.E. part of the Diocese of Rochester?

  • No.  H.O.P.E. is an independent, Catholic, non-profit organization, operated by the Catholic laity of Auburn, NY.  Since Holy Family Church is no longer being used as a Parish church, our goal is to preserve it and operate it as a Catholic sacred space.

• Does H.O.P.E. work with the Diocese of Rochester?

  • Our organization is independent of the Diocese of Rochester.  However, our goal is to collaborate with the Diocese of Rochester in our shared vision of evangelization through the promotion of prayer and the worship of God.  All liturgical matters must be authorized by the Bishop, and it is our mission to maintain an authentically Catholic sacred space.

• What will pledged or donated money be used for?

  • All donations will be used for endeavors that will support the preservation Holy Family Church as a Catholic sacred space.

  • Pledged or donated money will not be used for other churches.

  • All H.O.P.E. members are unpaid volunteers.  Pledged or donated money is not used to pay H.O.P.E. staff.

Please contact us with any other questions!