Editor’s note: The opinions expressed in the Gazette’s letters column are those of the letter-writers and do not necessarily reflect the opinions of the Gazette’s editors.

Dear Editor:

On behalf of historic St. Matthew Lutheran Church located at 2108 W. 21st St. in Chicago, I wish to express our deepest gratitude to you and Ms. Miriam Cintron for the excellent article printed in the March issue of the Gazette under the title: “City cites St. Matthew for alleged ‘violations.’

“I think the article is an accurate focus on the tragedy of a historic church that after 138 years of service to the Pilsen community now faces the overwhelming task of having to comply with expensive building repairs imposed by the City’s Building Department. Especially at a time when our nation faces a stagnant economy, St. Matthew with its commitment to feed the homeless and unemployed finds it very hard if not impossible to have the funding required for this awesome task.

However, because of the article in the Gazette on St. Matthew’s predicament, Jose Duarte, an engineer, and Ken Byerly, an architect, have volunteered their services to plan on the repairs of St. Matthew. Engineer Duarte suggested we recruit volunteers to do some of the repair work.

I think the Gazette has become an advocate of those who lack the political clout and connections to get the needed support and financial help to restore sacred places in Chicago that officially have been given the status of historical site, as in the case of St. Matthew. We have an uphill struggle ahead of us, but we feel less alone with friends like the Gazette. God bless you and please continue to give a voice to those who love Pilsen and provide services for the spiritual and physical betterment of the people.

Sincerely,

Rev. Julio Antonio Loza
St. Matthew’s Church