The Existing Social Hall / Gym
T
he existing gym/social hall
was built in 1929 as the original church. After the new Church was
constructed in 1959, it was converted into a gymnasium that doubles as a
social hall. It is 4,638 square feet including the garage and entryway.
The kitchen is used to cook for t
housands of people at events throughout
the year, including the school lunch program. Many volunteers, such as
members of the Altar Society, must transport supplies and equipment from
the church basement because storage space is inadequate. Necessity and
ingenuity have motivated those who serve and work in the kitchen but its
cramped space,
outdated equipment and lack of storage are inconvenient and
inadequate.
As a social hall, its capacity is between 230-300 people. There are 650
registered households and school families at St. Catherine’s and it is a
challenge to accommodate the whole community at one time. As a gymnasium,
its basketball court is too small to meet regulations so CYO home games
are played at nearby parishes. The restrooms are not accessible and
accommodate just one person at a time. During large group gatherings,
people must frequent the restrooms in the Church.