Be Part of This Sacred Renewal
During the cathedral's 50th anniversary year, Bishop Walsh invites you to help renovate St. Mary Cathedral's sanctuary to enhance the majesty of God and honor Our Lady of Mount Carmel, leading all who enter closer to her Son.
A Sanctuary that Radiates Reverence
As the spiritual heart of the Diocese of Gaylord, St. Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral has stood for 50 years as a place of prayer, unity and encounter with Christ. Today, we are called to renew this sacred space to ensure its beauty reflects the glory of God and draws every soul to enter into a deeper communion with Him.
This renovation will enhance the aesthetic beauty of the Cathedral sanctuary, with a matching ambo, altar and tabernacle pedestal made by local woodworker Michael Rygwelski. The golden tile and frame surrounding the Crucifix and cathedra will complement and complete the Stations of the Cross.
At the core of this transformation:
- A resplendent alcove will frame the suspended Crucifix, lined with shimmering gold tiles that reflect light and lift the spirit, proclaiming the glory of Christ crucified.
- A new hand-crafted altar and matching tabernacle pedestal, crafted from rich, warm wood and framed by graceful Romanesque-inspired arches, will evoke the timeless beauty of classical design.
- Altar and cathedra will be elevated with brick flooring, reflecting the sacred dignity of the liturgical space.
- A gleaming gold tabernacle, embossed with a chalice bearing the Eucharist, will be repositioned and continue to be a visible testament to Christ’s real presence in the Eucharist.
Every element has been prayerfully chosen to elevate our worship and invite a deeper encounter with the sacred. This is not simply a renovation; it is an offering of beauty, reverence and faith for generations to come.
Giving Levels
Our Lady of Mount Carmel Patrons
Bringing harmony and unity to our parish.
$1 - 499
Our Lady, Undoer of Knots Patrons
Overflowing with divine favor.
$500 - 999
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Patrons
Continual beacon of grace and support.
$1,000 - 4,999
Star of the Sea Patrons
Guiding light in building our future.
$5,000 - 9,999
Queen of Heaven Patrons
Protecting our parish and our purpose.
$10,000+
Each gift, no matter the size, is a vital part of this offering to God. Join us in renewing this sacred space — a house of prayer for all people, a beacon of beauty and devotion for the Diocese of Gaylord, and a home for Christ in our midst. Gifts can be made in honor or memory of a loved one.
How You Can Help:
Make a one-time gift or to learn more about making a gift through your IRA, donor-advised fund, or stock please click here.
Contact the cathedral office at (989) 732-5448 for more information about the project, or if you would like to make a special, targeted gift.
Share this mission with your family, friends and fellow parishioners.
With hearts open to the Holy Spirit, may our shared generosity reflect our love of God and devotion to Our Lady of Mount Carmel. Together, as one family of faith, may we renew this holy place to inspire generations to come.
