St. Michael's Renovation
Frequently Asked Questions - St. Michael’s Parish LOA Sanctuary Renovation
Why are we renovating St. Michael’s?
The renovation project was initiated as part of the Love One Another Capital Campaign which launched in 2022 and is the final project of our case statement. The design was created in collaboration with a committee of St. Michael’s parishioners, Fr. Magnor, and an architect with the goal to enhance our sacred space, foster deeper reverence for the Eucharist, and increase devotion to the angels and saints.
What changes are being made?
The renovation will bring several beautiful and meaningful enhancements to our church. The centerpiece will be a baldachino (canopy) over the tabernacle, drawing our eyes and hearts toward the Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist and inspiring greater devotion. New niches will be created for the statues of St. Michael and the Holy Family, providing places of honor that encourage popular piety and deeper personal devotion. A communion rail will also be installed, giving parishioners the option to receive Holy Communion while kneeling—a gesture of humility and reverence rooted in our Church’s tradition. Finally, hard flooring will be installed in the sanctuary / nave and the walls will be covered, enhancing the beauty of our church and improving acoustics.
What is the purpose of a communion rail?
The communion rail is being installed to help foster a deeper sense of reverence for the Eucharist. It creates a sacred space where parishioners may choose to receive Holy Communion while kneeling, a posture that expresses humility and adoration. Standing reception will still be welcomed, but the rail provides an additional way to approach the Sacrament of the Eucharist more prayerfully and intentionally.
When will the renovation take place?
The renovation will begin in January of 2026, and is anticipated to take about three months to complete. We are hopeful the project will be completed at the end of March 2026, in time for our celebration of Holy Week.
Will Masses and parish activities be affected?
To allow contractors to work efficiently and complete the project on time, the 9:00 AM Sunday Mass will be temporarily moved to Holy Trinity Parish during the renovation. All other funerals and liturgies will also take place at Holy Trinity during this period. The parish office will remain open for its usual office hours at St Michael’s. Our hope is to return to St. Michael’s in time to celebrate Holy Week and Easter in our beautifully renewed church.
What happens to my tithing if I attend the 9:00 AM Mass at Holy Trinity?
All St. Michael’s envelope and online giving will continue to go to St. Michael’s Parish. All tithes and offerings collected at the 9:00 AM Sunday Mass, temporarily held at Holy Trinity, will continue to go to St. Michael’s parish. Mass intentions for St. Michael’s will also be fulfilled at the 9am Mass. Your continued giving will be important to maintain support of the daily ministries, programs, and needs of our parish during this time of transition.
How is the project being funded?
The project will be funded in part by the Love One Another Capital Campaign funds received and parish savings that have been allocated for this purpose. The project budget is $450,000. We are grateful for all of your generous support!
Will the parish take on debt to complete this project?
No. Thanks to the generous pledges from the Love One Another Capital Campaign and parish savings allocated, St. Michael’s will complete this renovation without incurring any debt. Careful planning ensures that the project can move forward responsibly while keeping our parish financially healthy for the future.
How will this renovation benefit our parish community?
The enhancements to our church will encourage greater Eucharistic reverence and devotion, provide a more beautiful and prayerful worship space, as well as honor our patron, St. Michael, and the Holy Family, and support the liturgical and devotional life of our parish for generations to come.
How can I support the renovation?
Keep the success of the project, the safety of all workers, and the spiritual renewal of our parish in your daily prayers. Your continued commitment to your Love One Another Capital Campaign pledge and your ongoing support of our parish make this renovation possible. We are grateful for any additional donations made to the project and your continued generosity!
