Worship Area Project Update

The Holy Spirit has been guiding us in this journey to beautify our Sanctuary in an extraordinary way. Through months of prayer, discussion, and collaboration with our staff, the Arts and Environment Committee, Advance Terrazzo & Tile, Nick Markell of Markell Studios Inc., and most importantly, the Holy Spirit, we have developed a beautiful plan for this project. Phase I (the Sanctuary area and steps) was complete as of July 31, 2025. Phase II will focus on enhancing the baptismal font and the main aisle leading up to the Sanctuary.

We are thankful for the involvement of parishioners from the very beginning, whether by donations, expertise, prayer, and thoughtful feedback.

The design of floor pays homage to our patron, St. Patrick, and honors the deep Irish roots of our parish. To learn more about the intentionality of this design, please watch Nick Markell’s video below.

Safety has been a key consideration, particularly regarding the sloped area of the main aisle. To ensure the flooring is both beautiful and secure, three independent tests were conducted on a sample, leading us to seek a different finish on the flooring that will provide a better traction.

This is not merely a renovation—it is a legacy. What we build today will endure for generations, serving as a Lifelong Gift to our parish family. We are entrusted with the responsibility to create something truly magnificent, a space that glorifies God. Beauty has a unique power to draw us closer to the Divine. True Beauty, which comes from God, lifts our hearts and minds toward Heaven. Our sacred spaces should inspire prayer and contemplation, leading us into deeper communion with Our Lord. As we move forward with this project, we do so with the hope that our Worship Area will continue to be a place where all who enter encounter the presence of God in a profound way.

Updates on our progress will continue to be available on our parish website. Donations to support this endeavor can be made online or placed in the weekly collection. This is truly a shared effort, and we receive it as a gift from God.

Let us journey together in faith, trusting in the guidance of the Holy Spirit and embracing this opportunity to offer something beautiful for the glory of God.

Learn more about Nick Markell of Markell Studios Inc. here.

Learn more about Advance Terrazzo & Tile here.

Worship Area Renovation Project – Information Meeting Q&A:

Why is the sanctuary being renovated first?
The sanctuary is the most sacred and visible part of our church, where the Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is offered. Over time, the steps have become permanently stained, and the elevation changes are difficult to discern. Phase I of the renovation will restore the beauty and clarity of the sanctuary, reflecting the reverence due to this sacred space.

Why not wait until all funds are secured and complete the entire project at once?
By beginning with the sanctuary, which is fully funded, we hope to inspire a deeper appreciation for the beauty and reverence of our worship space. True beauty, which comes from God, elevates our hearts and minds to Him. A sacred space that reflects divine beauty invites prayer and contemplation, drawing us into a deeper communion with the Lord. Our hope would be to fund Phase II as soon as we can.

Is the design finalized?
Yes, the design is complete and final.

Will the grit on the floor wear down? Will the finish need to be reapplied?
Yes, the specialized finish, which enhances traction while ensuring ease of maintenance, will need periodic reapplication. Given the light use of this flooring, the exact timeline for reapplication is uncertain, but it will involve stripping and refinishing the surface as needed. This will be done by our maintenance team.

Where are the prayer intentions placed in the floor?
There was a small compartment in the floor, where all prayer intentions that were collected could be reverently sealed within the sacred space. It has been marked with a brass cross, and is located in front of the altar.

Will a handicap ramp be installed for access to the sanctuary?
Due to spatial limitations, a handicap ramp to the sanctuary is not feasible. However, the sanctuary remains accessible in accordance with the requirements of the worship area. New beautiful railings will be installed on the steps of the Sanctuary. Please refer to the design.

Are the renovation funds in an interest-bearing account?
Yes, all funds for the project are currently held in a money market account, earning an investment return of 4%+.

If we wait two years to secure funding for Phase II, will the total cost change?
Yes, the projected cost of Phase II will fluctuate due to inflation and changes in material and labor expenses. Estimated funding for Phase II is $150,000. Currently, we have received $23,000.

Other Frequently Asked Questions:

What is included in this project?

  • Phase 1 focuses on installing a beautiful terrazzo floor in the Sanctuary. This was complete July 31, 2025.
  • Nonslip stair treads were added to enhance traction and safety.
  • To address concerns about the slipperiness of the terrazzo flooring, three independent tests were conducted by American Engineering Testing in St. Paul. A specialized finish will be applied to enhance traction while ensuring the floor remains easy to maintain and clean.

What is the timeline for completion?

  • Phase I was completed July 31, 2025. Phase II will be scheduled once funds are secured, God willing.

Will the Worship Area remain available during renovations?

  • Weekend Masses will continue to be celebrated in the Worship Area.
  • Daily Masses and Funeral liturgies will be relocated to allow the work to proceed without interruption.
  • There are no weddings scheduled during this time.

Where are the prayer intentions parishioners submitted?

  • As part of Phase I of the renovation, we collected prayer intentions to be sealed within the sacred area of the new floor. The spot where they prayer intentions are located is located in front of the altar, and is marked with a small brass cross.

How is this project being funded?

  • This project is made possible by the generous donations of St. Patrick parishioners who have specifically designated their contributions for this purpose. No funds are being taken from the general parish budget.
  • If you would like to contribute to the Worship Area Project, there are three ways you can contribute:
    • St. Patrick website – click on the Donate button, select Worship Area Project. Complete the information and click on Submit.
    • Pick up an envelope for the Worship Area Project from the kiosk and place it in the collection basket.
    • Scan the QR code located in the Worship Area Project kiosk.

What will be included in the Future Phases of Worship Area Project?

  • Future phases will continue as funding becomes available.
  • Saint Patrick and St. Michael the Archangel statues will be brought into the Worship Area.
  • New railings will be installed on the steps of the Sanctuary. The existing railing on the north side (where the lectors enter) will be replaced after the floor is completed.
  • Plans include extending the terrazzo flooring up the center aisle and around the baptismal font.

Still have questions?

Contact Kristann Yocum, Business administrator, with any further questions you may have regarding this project.