Stained glass windows were installed in 1966. A new wider entrance to the front of the church property was added. The property consisting of two buildings nextto the church was purchased for use as a rectory and apartment.
In the 1970's a storage room and new lower entrance was built. The exterior improvements consisted of new siding, roof and an outside message board. Interior improvements were new carpeting, kneelers and air conditioning. The iconostasis was purchased in 1979.
In the 1980's the stone was repointed. New convection ovens were added to the kitchen. In 1981 the installation of the iconostasis* was completed. The rectory and church office were extensively remodeled under the direction of the resident priests. For our 70th anniversary year, we are enjoying our latest addition, a beautiful crystal chandelier and five smaller crystal lights. Future plans call for the addition of a Byzantine dome for the top of the church and restoring or new icons for iconostasis.
Throughout this brief historical sketch of the past of the Blessed Virgin Mary Church of Coatesville, we wished to point out the more important historical facts leading up to this joyous occasion of the 70th Jubilee of our parish. Seventy years is a noteworthy period, even in the life of a permanent institution such as a parish. The parishioners of the Blessed Virgin Mary are grateful for the many graces and blessings that God has bestowed on them, their families and loved ones during these past many years. Let us ask our heavenly patroness for her continued care and intercession with her son, our Lord Jesus Christ, that we may continue to live according to the teachings of our Byzantine faith.
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