Letters: Great idea on using empty schools, Joan - we're already there

IAPPLAUD Councilwoman Joan Krajewski's outstanding June 26 op-ed (

"Saving Grace for Catholic Schools"

) as well as her many years of service to the city and the 6th District.

Ms. Krajewski, a graduate of Nativity BVM School in Port Richmond, is one of many local legislators who stand as fine examples of the value of Catholic education. I feel her heartache as she watched the last eighth-grade class graduate from her beloved elementary school.

I also appreciate her understanding and analysis of the closings and mergers of schools in the archdiocese.

The archdiocese shares the councilwoman's enthusiasm for transforming vacant buildings into community assets and is actually already doing so. In May, Cardinal Rigali blessed the new Saint John Neumann Place in South Philadelphia. This building used to be a Catholic high school. Now it has a new life as independent-living apartments for income-eligible seniors of all faiths.

South Philadelphia residents have been overwhelmingly pleased by and supportive of the development and have expressed appreciation for the church's continued presence in their neighborhood. Residents who relocated years ago to the suburbs have returned to thrive, shop, dine and attend Mass once again in their old neighborhood.

As Ms. Krajewski wrote, it's a "win-win" situation for all. The proof is in the smiles of the residents at Saint John Neumann Place.

Joseph J. Sweeney

Secretary for Catholic Human Services

Archdiocese of Philadelphia