St. Alphonsus Church revamp plan gets worldwide support

Although St. Alphonsus Church in Cape Breton, N.S., is slated for demolition, an organization trying to save the building says it has been receiving tremendous support.

The Diocese of Antigonish had issued a tender for St. Alphonsus Church's demolition, but said last week that it would consider a last-minute proposal by the Stone Church Restoration Society.

The group wants to restore and open the 98-year-old former Roman Catholic church in Victoria Mines as a historic tourist attraction.

People from around the world are offering to help save the building, says Melanie Sampson, the society's spokeswoman.

A accountant who formerly lived in Cape Breton and is now living in Yarmouth is one of many people supporting the project, she says.

"He and his firm have come forward to say that they will do all of our accounting needs, applying for grants for us, anything that we need them to do. A gentleman from Calgary is our web administrator. He's doing our website for free for us. We're getting emails everyday from people that want to help and offer their time," said Sampson.

The Diocese of Antigonish has asked for a detailed proposal by April 2, says Sampson.

The society plans to have another public meeting on April 12, she adds.

Two other churches St. Joseph in New Victoria and St. Agnes in New Waterford are also scheduled for demolition.