More than 300 members of St. Joseph Parish in Howell gathered on Feb. 26 for a ribbon-cutting ceremony and dinner to celebrate the opening of the new gathering space. Funded in part by earlier campaigns, but largely through Witness to Hope funds, the long-awaited space offers handicapped-accessible doors, ramps and bathrooms, more space for funerals and weddings and includes an outdoor canopy for easy drop-off purposes. Parishioners are grateful to all who had a hand in bringing the project to fruition, especially their patron, St. Joseph, for his prayers and guidance.