Little church in the woods gets extra concrete, steel

St. Joachim Church in Marrero is known as “The Little Church in the Woods,”  but pastor Father G. Amaldoss, left, and parishioners have big plans for their expanded church. “I’m here to preach the word of God,” Father Amaldoss said.

“I’m not here to ask people for money. … We are a church that is alive.” Father Amaldoss said he trusted God on the expansion project, which includes a new porte cochere, a new orientation for the altar with a view of the beautiful, natural surroundings, more seating and a space for the choir. “Ask God, and he will provide,” he said.

Father Amaldoss said he hopes to be back in the expanded church by Christmas.

During construction, St. Joachim is pumping cool air into an outdoor pavilion for Mass. The fans serve as “auxiliary” AC.