On May 19, parishioners gathered outside of St. Michael Parish in Hermosa to bless and break ground for a new parish addition that will consist of seven classrooms, bathrooms, and a common area. The classrooms will consist of four atriums for infant to toddler, 3-6 yr. olds, 6-9 yr. olds, 9-12 yr. olds in addition to space for middle school, high school, adults, and a music room/office space. 

“St. Michael Church currently has only two classrooms,” explained Deacon Matt Snyder. “We currently have students utilizing the kitchen, storage rooms and the Church for formation.”

According to Deacon Snyder, when the church building was completed in 2016 parishioners started faith formation programs for their youth and adults. Teachers include three VSI Master’s graduates and one Basic graduate, and another going through Basic certification this year. Parishioners are trained in the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd and are currently offering levels 1 & 2 with a parishioner planning to be trained in level 3 this summer. 

Deacon Snyder added the number of students has grown from 19 in the 2022/2023 school year to 36 in the 2023/2024 year. The parish is 63 families strong including 44 youth ages 0-18. “We’re a growing community,” he explained. “The Hermosa community has experienced a 22.3% increase over the past 23 years and the projected population is a steady increase of families to the area.”

The building project is expected to cost $770,000 and will be completed in the fall of 2024.