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Robert Elliot
Hatteberg's People
Reporter: Larry Hatteberg
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November 19, 2005--It is a restoration project that is bringing new life to an historic Wichita church. St. Anthony’s at 256 N. Ohio in Wichita – not far from Old Town. As the church regains its splendor, we meet a group of artisans led by Robert Elliott. They are restoring the artwork to original standards.
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It’s artwork not often seen in Wichita but lovingly done by those who believe in this church.
“This is a house of God, those words mean everything to the people here.”
And it has been a house of God for a hundred years. St. Anthony’s church at second and Ohio now experiencing a rebirth.
“This church is, it is really a huge part of Wichita’s history.”
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Robert Elliott is a master a restoration. His job is to restore the ceiling , murals, statuary and woodwork of this old church.
“I love coming here every day. This work is an extension of my passion.”
But he, and his talented group of artisans see it more as a mission and a privilege. |
“When someone walks into this church, they have an immediate response. And a lot of people have told me, it makes them feel more in touch with God, more in touch with their community….more prayerful.”
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Robert runs his own company in Wichita but works nationally on some of the most expensive homes in the world.
“In Florida the houses are in the range of 22 million to 50 million dollars. But it pales in comparison to working for so many people and affecting so many families. |
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The people of the Parish of St. Anthony’s….I’ve really grown to love them and care about them.”
Sometimes painting with goose feathers, Robert Elliott and his talented staff have turned this aging Inner city Catholic Church into one of the most beautiful in the city.
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“I’ve had people come up to me and say ‘Thank you, thank you for what you have done here’. There is no way to put a monetary value on any of that.”
With reconstruction nearly finished, those who have cared for and loved this historic church along with artisans like Robert Elliott, are keeping the faith with a new generation of Wichitians. |
All the hours we’ve put in, don’t even compare with the efforts of the Parish, the Parish has been working for 12 years to make this happen.”
“I couldn’t be more proud to be here.” |
| Originally called the German church, now the parish serves a large Vietnamese Catholic community as well. The dedication service will be held December 14 and officiated by the Bishop. After that, the church will be open to the public. |
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