Philly Catholic school Our Mother of Consolation rebuilt after losing everything in a fire.

A devastating three-alarm fire in March 2023 temporarily rendered the historic stone school building of Our Mother of Consolation unable to serve its community. After more than two years of concerted efforts involving dedicated fundraising, resilience from students and staff, and unwavering community support, the school is set to formally reopen its doors at the beginning of the new academic year, featuring a state-of-the-art, .5 million renovation.

While the exterior of the venerable building remains largely unchanged, significant transformations have occurred within its walls. Our Mother of Consolation, a fixture in the community since 1862, now boasts advanced technological facilities, including an innovation lab and an information commons. Notable improvements also include a specialized music and art room, as well as the introduction of a cafeteria with an on-site kitchen—previously unavailable amenities for the students.

The Rev. John Fisher, pastor of Our Mother of Consolation, expressed his optimism regarding the renovations, stating that the project represents a new beginning for the school, akin to a phoenix rising from the ashes. Prior to the fire, many facilities were cramped and outdated. For instance, what once served as a nurse’s office was simply a desk in a room, and the ministry center was situated in a repurposed janitor’s closet. The renovation has transformed these spaces into vibrant, modern areas equipped with the necessary amenities for today’s educational needs.

Principal Jessica Stack, who was a teacher at the school at the time of the fire, now oversees an administrative suite within the revamped building. Classrooms have been extensively renovated to feature modular desks and collaborative spaces to foster small-group work, alongside modernized storage solutions for older students.

Despite the comprehensive renovations, the school honors its history with design elements such as the metal from the original staircase, which has been incorporated into the new structure. A visual collage of 66 historical photographs, resembling a stained-glass window, adorns the main entrance, creating a bridge between the storied past and the revitalized future.

Funding for the renovation came from various sources, including insurance payouts, community initiatives, and sizable donations from several foundations. The school community achieved remarkable fundraising success, raising over .3 million towards a capital campaign goal of .5 million. Community engagement played a crucial role in supporting the school, with local groups organizing numerous fundraisers and drives to address unexpected renovation costs.

As the reopening approaches, the excitement is palpable among students and staff. Plans are in place for a celebration featuring a tour from Philadelphia Archbishop Nelson Pérez, further solidifying the connection between the school’s past and future. Students, including eighth graders Grace Sprandio and JJ Cosgrove, expressed their joy in returning to a space that has been dramatically reimagined since the fire forced a temporary relocation to a nearby college campus.

Reflecting on the trauma of the fire, Rev. Fisher is grateful that no lives were lost, which adds a layer of profound relief amidst the challenges faced during the rebuilding process. The memories of that harrowing day remain vivid, yet the successful resiliency demonstrated by the community serves as a testament to the enduring spirit of Our Mother of Consolation.

As the school prepares to welcome students back into its newly renovated space, parents and former educators alike have expressed feelings of gratitude and nostalgia, reaffirming the school’s importance to its community. The rebuilding journey symbolizes not only the physical restoration of a beloved institution but also the strengthening of community bonds and collective hope for the future.