Preserving Our Legacy. Strengthening Our Future.
Welcome
St. Paul Olean has always been more than a place of worship—it is a testament to faith, resilience, and community. We are a pilgrim church, journeying together in faith for generations. Guided by faith in the past, sustained by faith today, we continue to serve with open hearts and hands.
Now, we face an important moment in our story. Through this capital campaign, we will restore and protect our sacred space so it remains a safe, inspiring, and welcoming home for all who seek God’s presence. We invite you to join us in prayer, generosity, and faith as we take this step together.
Our Legacy
For more than 165 years, St. Paul Olean has been at the heart of our community—welcoming all for worship, fellowship, and refuge. Our congregation has stood through defining moments in history, including the Civil War era, when Olean served as a stop on the Underground Railroad.
In the early 1900s, the women of St. Paul led efforts for our current sanctuary, with its stained glass windows and the German inscription “Fürchte dich nicht, du kleine Herde” (“Do not fear, little flock”)—a lasting reminder of God’s presence.
The Need
Time and weather have taken their toll on St. Paul Olean. The bell tower needs repairs, stained glass windows require restoration, and the roof, masonry, limestone, and drainage systems must be strengthened.
The bell tower is a symbol of faith for the community, and the stained glass reflects our congregation’s story. Repairs protect both people and the building.
The Vision
With your support, we will restore and protect our church for generations to come.
This project will:
- Preserve the bell tower as a community landmark.
- Restore stained glass windows to fill the sanctuary with light.
- Repair roof, masonry, and limestone to safeguard the structure.
- Improve drainage systems to prevent future damage.
This work ensures St. Paul Olean remains a welcoming home for worship, fellowship, and service while honoring the legacy of those who came before.
Your Support Matters
The legacy of St. Paul Olean belongs not just to us—it belongs to the community, to history, and to the future. By supporting this project, you invest in a church that has stood strong for over 165 years and continues to serve all who seek refuge, comfort, and faith. Your gift will help preserve this cherished place of worship, ensuring it remains a welcoming home, a center for community, and a beacon of hope, strength, and unity for generations to come.