By Steve Tarnowski
Special to the Catholic Herald
Questions about the Diocesan Services Appeal
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Since Oct. 1, Conrad Schmidt Studios has been working on a "cartoon" or full-scale design for an angel mosaic on the side of one of the arches in the Cathedral of Christ the King. The scaffolding will come down soon to allow people to view the design. Conrad Schmidt will be doing the decorative painting and mosaic work for the cathedral renovation and enhancement project. (Photo by Julie Godfrey Miller) |
This is the fourth of five articles in the Catholic Herald that will answer questions about the Diocesan Services Appeal and explain why the 2002-2003 appeal is different than those in prior years.
What's the condition of the Cathedral that requires this major project?
Our cathedral is in serious need of repair, without which it will deteriorate further and create even greater expense. Some of the work has already begun, including the replacement of portions of the copper roof and reinforcement of the bell tower. Temperature changes, rain and settling of the building have caused deterioration of the mortar joints; and water leakage through the roof and walls is damaging the interior. At this time, leaking widows have been sealed, joints have beentuck-pointed and the surface has been cleaned to remove damaging pollutants.
How will the Cathedral of Christ the King be enhanced and preserved?
The improvements to the cathedral range from highly visible structural and liturgical enhancements to less visible maintenance and systems upgrades. The exterior of the cathedral has been refurbished to stand up to harsh Wisconsin winters. Inside, the bishop's chair, the baptismal font, the tabernacle and the choir will be moved to more suitable locations. New artwork will adorn the walls. New heating and mechanical systems will bring the cathedral up to code. Overall, the cathedral will be made more accessible to the elderly and handicapped.
If you have additional questions about the DSA or the preservation and enhancement of the Cathedral of Christ the King, Tarnowski can be reached at 715-392-2937.
Tarnowski is director of the Department of Stewardship and Development for the Diocese of Superior.
© Superior Catholic Herald, 2002