Dear Friends of Our Lady of Victory Church!

The organ has long been a cherished instrument in our community, filling our gatherings with rich, resonant sound. However, behind the beauty of its music lies a pressing need for restoration and modernization. The majority of the issues plaguing our pipe organ are mechanical, affecting its playability and reliability.

Understanding the Challenges

As many of you may know, the organ's console and switching system are aging components, with origins dating back to 1960 and 1987, respectively. These systems have experienced significant wear and tear, leading to multiple complications that can hinder our musical experience. At any given time, our organ suffers from dead notes—pipes that fail to produce sound due to console and switching system malfunctions. Additionally, keys may stick when pressed, causing unintended notes to resonate.

One of the critical issues we face is the failure of the organ's memory system. This system allows organists to save settings for various stops, making performances much more manageable. Without this functionality, playing the organ becomes increasingly challenging, detracting from its potential to enhance our services and events.

The Financial Burden of Repairs

The costs associated with repairing the organ are not insignificant. A visit from our pipe organ technician typically ranges from $500 to $1,000. These expenses accumulate rapidly, making it impractical to call for repairs as frequently as needed. In my own experience within the pipe organ maintenance trade, I have taken on many repairs myself, but the extent of the issues often requires professional intervention.

A Call for Support

We launched the Pipe Organ Project to address these urgent mechanical issues and to ensure the future of our beloved instrument. Our goal is to replace the outdated components and restore the organ to its fullest potential, enabling it to serve our community for many years to come.

As of November 29, 2024, we have raised $197,920.38 towards our total project cost of $207,000! We continue to reach out to our community to seek support in funding this essential project. Every contribution, no matter the size, will make a difference. You can help by donating through the designated "Pipe Organ Project" envelopes available in the gathering space, which can be dropped off in the offertory collection bin. Alternatively, donations can be made through our parish website by selecting the "OLV Pipe Organ Project" fund. For those who prefer a digital option, a QR code is also provided for your convenience.

Phase II & III of the Pipe Organ Project

All money raised beyond the Phase I goal will be used to fund Phase II & III of the Pipe Organ Project. You may recall Phase II of the project addresses the lack of sufficient winding to the entire instrument, which includes replacement of the blower motor and installation of a larger static air reservoir. Phase III of the project addresses miscellaneous repairs to damaged pipes and other mechanisms.

Gratitude for Your Generosity

We are immensely grateful for your generosity and support. The restoration of our pipe organ is not just about repairing an instrument; it’s about preserving a vital part of our community's musical heritage. Together, we can ensure that our pipe organ continues to fill our space with its majestic sound, enhancing our worship and celebrations for generations to come. Thank you for being a part of this important project!