New sanctuary at Centennial church dedicated

            On Sept. 14 Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, O.F.M. Cap., was the principal celebrant in a dedication ceremony for the new building at St. Thomas More Church in Centennial. 

The improvements, which include a new bell tower and steeple, are part of a first phase construction project, according to Mila Glodava, director of stewardship and communications at the parish.

            "The project included stained glass windows, marble walls and floors, statues of favorite saints and a liturgically correct baptismal font," Glodava said.  "The new church doors also feature handles that were sculpted by (the church pastor) Father Andrew Kemberling."

            The nave, with a seating capacity of 980, has new pews which follow the lines of the circular church.  Further improvements include a new sound system, video capabilities, drop-down screens and fire-suppression systems.

            "The focal point of the sanctuary is a crucified Christ made of marble," Glodava said.  "A relic of the True Cross, donated by Father Melvin Thompson, sits above it.  Other first class relics will be encased in the new altar which will be consecrated at the dedication."

            In addition a new 30-seat perpetual adoration chapel was built on the opposite side of the wall where the church altar is located.  The church and chapel share a tabernacle, which is accessible from either side.  Other renovations included in the first phase were new parish offices, the gift shop, a library and an information room.  A new devotional cove houses hundreds of candles for parishioners to light in memory or in honor of a loved one.  Cost of the renovations was $11 million.

            "It's been nearly five years in coming, but it's worth the wait," Father Kemberling said.  "You walk into the church and it will be a true reflection of God."

            Other celebration events  include Vespers for Clergy and dinner set for 7 p.m. Sept. 17, and a dinner and dance at the Inverness Hotel, 200 Inverness Drive West in Englewood.  Liturgical tours wew held on Sept. 18 and 19. .

 Denver Catholic Register, Sept. 3, 2008, page 11