SIOUX CITY, IOWA, August 4 (CNA) - The Diocese of Sioux Falls, South Dakota recently celebrated the interior restoration of its Cathedral of St. Joseph, completing a 15-year effort to bring classical beauty back to the nearly century-old worship space.CNA
"This is not the end but rather the beginning of a new day for the Cathedral of St. Joseph as a place to see beauty, learn about the faith, and draw closer to God," said Sioux Falls Bishop Paul J. Swain, who welcomed worshipers and visitors after blessing the restored cathedral's doors on July 25.
Former Sioux Falls bishop and current St. Louis Archbishop Robert J. Carlson attended the dedication, witnessing the completion of the redesign that he initiated during his leadership of the diocese. Bishop Donald J. Kettler of Fairbanks, Alaska, who is a former rector of the cathedral, also attended the ceremony.
In addition to the artistic overhaul, designed by the acclaimed architect Duncan G. Stroik, the $16.2 million project also included extensive building maintenance and structural work, along with the complete replacement of the church's electrical wiring, sound system, lights, heating and air conditioning.
Duncan Stroik also designed the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Some photos of Cathedral of St Joseph:
*sigh* I ♥ beauty. Ahem, the Diocese of Sioux Falls has about half the Catholic population as the Diocese of La Crosse... Just sayin...
HT LC