When we relocated to Saint James last December, it was primarily because of its stature as the largest among our parish churches, its relatively ample parking compared to Holy Redeemer and Saint Patrick, its central location among our congregations, and most notably, its possession of our sole school. This facilitated our efforts to enroll our children in Catholic education.

A persistent challenge we've encountered is the absence of air conditioning at Saint James, a discomfort familiar to anyone spending time there during the summer months. We explored various solutions and have reached a decision I wish to share.

Initially, we investigated engineered options, such as installing split units within the stained glass windows or utilizing the existing air exchange system. However, due to equipment availability, time constraints, and costs, we've deferred these permanent solutions for now, as we collectively chart our future.

Recognizing our tenure at Saint James as temporary, pending further deliberation on our primary worship sites, we've opted for a provisional fix. After consulting stained glass experts in Waunakee, Milwaukee, and New Berlin, and conducting thorough research within our community, we've chosen to install window air conditioners in the small levered areas of the stained glass windows. 

If we were to have determined that installing window units would be ineffective, too loud, too dangerous, or too costly, our backup plan was to move masses to another site that is already air conditioned. But deciding that site, the communication, logistics, and confusion caused by such a move means that there would be a "cost" to moving just as there is a cost for installing window units. 

Though any solution carries risks, we deem them acceptable in this instance. The project's cost is minimal, and the window units can be repurposed as needed in the future. While we may not achieve a constant icy 70 degrees, we're confident this approach will alleviate the summer heat.

I extend immense gratitude to the staff and volunteers of the maintenance and finance teams that have helped us reach this conclusion.