One year after the Benedictine Sisters purchased Saint Mary’s Auditorium the newly renovated facility is ready to open for recreational programs for at-risk youth and people with physical and mental challenges.

"There is great potential for community building here," said Sister Dianne Sabol, director of St. Mary’s. "We can provide recreation for people with disabilities, limited incomes and others who just want to have fun. In playing together, stereotypes break down and relationships grow."

Sister Dianne supervised the extensive renovations to the 63-year-old auditorium including replacement of roofs, new lighting, painting, a new floor, addition of new sports equipment, an automated front door and sloped sidewalks.

"Not only will we serve the Erie community with this new ministry," explained Sister Christine Vladimiroff, prioress, "but we also want to contribute to the beauty and upkeep of our physical surroundings, especially in the eastside Parade Street neighborhood where we began in Erie. There is no reason for our inner-city to deteriorate."

A rededication and blessing of the auditorium was held on Sunday, August 13. Invited guests included benefactors, past and present members of Saint Mary’s Parish, graduates of Saint Mary’s School and Saint Benedict Academy as well as those organizations that will fill the auditorium with vibrant new programming—personnel from Sister Gus’ Kids Cafe, Saint Benedict Education Center, the Neighborhood Art House and those who serve individuals with physical and mental challenges, such as Erie Homes for Children and Adults and the Achievement Center.

"We are looking forward to taking our clients to Saint Mary’s," said Debra Niland, director of the MOVE Program, Erie Homes for Children and Adults. "Community inclusion is important in people’s lives and Saint Mary’s will allow us to schedule the physical and social programs that we need. The building is large, accessible and even provides private locker rooms where clients can change."

The renovation of the auditorium was made possible by a $100,000 grant from the Erie Community Foundation, a donated roof from Roofers Local 210, a donated boiler, an anonymous grant of $12,500, individual contributions and an interest free loan.

Sister Dianne, who has a degree in therapeutic recreation, notes that "the accessibility of the facility and our Benedictine values will create a space where all are equal. That is my vision."