The Feb. 8 story, Parishioners want church declared historic, on St. Jude Melkite Catholic Church was misleading as a result of incorrect information being promoted by a small group of parishioners looking to obtain an inappropriate historical designation.

Parishioners were told that unless the designation was obtained, it would be sold to developers, demolished and replaced with highrises. Neither church leaders, nor the bishop, claimed that the building or property would be sold or demolished.

Most parishioners are now upset and don’t want the church designated historic. While it is beautiful, it doesn’t satisfy the criteria for historic designation. St. Jude is a growing community church that needs to make changes to enhance the physical beauty and structure to conform to its Melkite liturgy.

We respectfully request that the Historical and Environmental Preservation Board not approve this misguided application. If approved, it would remove the discretion and flexibility needed to make changes to the structure and would lead to increased operating expenses and reduced property value and infringe on the church’s constitutional and religious rights.

Rt. Reverend Damon Geiger, St. Jude Melkite Catholic Church, Miami