The situation regarding St. Joseph’s Church has me asking some questions:

Is the structure so unsafe that demolition is the best or only option? What is the specific damage? What repairs would be necessary to make it safe?

I know nothing about engineering, but demolition should be a last resort to preserve public safety.

Could the building be used for other purposes — housing, for example? Other places have turned abandoned churches into housing and Lewiston needs affordable housing. The idea should at least be considered. If the building couldn’t be used for housing, what other needs could it serve?

Again, I know little about architecture, I am simply posing some questions.

St. Joseph’s and the other abandoned churches have been a part of the area’s physical, cultural and spiritual landscape. They deserve the respect of thoughtful questions.

Maureen Perry, Lewiston