St. Mary Parish Projects
Communion Station Improvements
St. Mary Parish is excited to share that, at the guidance of our Pastoral Council, and thanks to the generous support of a parishioner donor, we are undertaking a new project in the church.
We have entered into a contract with an incredibly talented local carpenter, Shawn Josephson (Shawn David Designs) of Cedarburg, to create new Communion stations that will replace the current assortment of mismatched kneelers near the altar with a unified and intentional design.
These new Communion stations will provide a dignified setting for the reception of Holy Communion while incorporating elements of the church’s existing design.
The Eucharist is the Real Presence of Christ, and these Communion stations are meant to support a prayerful reception of our Lord by encouraging stillness and reflection. While the furnishings will be new, the way we receive Holy Communion will remain the same.
We are excited about how this addition will enhance the beauty of our worship space and help draw our hearts more deeply into the mystery of the Eucharist, always for the greater glory of God.
The Design
As the project progresses, we are excited to share a glimpse of the craftsmanship taking shape. The structural framing of the Communion station support columns is underway.
Each pillar is being carefully constructed with recessed cross detailing and clean architectural lines that echo the sacred character of the sanctuary. Though still in its framing stage, the work already reflects both strength and reverence — designed not simply as functional supports, but as visible signs of the beauty and sacredness of the Eucharist.
When completed, the unified rail and stations will create a cohesive and prayerful space that invites recollection and fosters a deeper awareness of the Real Presence of Christ.
Bell Tower Repairs
Last fall, we first shared the need for repairs to the Church Bell Tower as time and weather, have taken their toll. Water damage has caused wood to rot; the structural beams need reinforcement.
To protect the bells and the building that holds them, work will include:
- Reinforcing wood beams with steel supports
- Sealing exposed wood
- Retuck-pointing the interior and exterior masonry
- Painting and restoring louvers and flashings
- Addressing drainage to prevent future damage
We are currently reviewing bids and carefully considering the next steps, with hopes of moving forward soon.