Our Vision to Restore The Basilica of Saint Mary

For over one hundred years, The Basilica has been a beacon and a bastion for Minneapolis, offering respite, relief, and religion for anyone who enters its hallowed doors. The time has come to ensure that this legacy lasts for another hundred years.

Dear Parishioners and Friends,

“We are embarking on a very exciting time at The Basilica of Saint Mary where we begin the process of restoring the beauty of our historic church – America’s first basilica….”

What to Expect

We know a project with this scope, and in such an important landmark, will raise a lot of questions. We're here with the answers. We will provide updates as soon as new information is available. In the meantime, please feel free to contact us with any additional concerns.

Is this restoration project the same as the “master plan” project that was discussed a few years ago?

The Master Plan, completed in 2019, provided a comprehensive approach to our parish space and campus needs. The restoration project for which we are currently planning, is one of the components of the Master Plan.

What is the plan for worship when the restoration is ongoing?

We are in the process of finalizing a plan to manage the space disruption associated with the interior and exterior restoration of the church. We expect the plan to be completed this fall and be ready for execution shortly thereafter. The plan will include current estimates of dates and length of disruption by space, alternative space arrangements when needed and points of contact for additional information. It is our intent to keep masses, services and events, when possible, in the nave of the church. There will be times when capacity is reduced and a period of time in which the nave will be closed. During the period of closure, it is our intent to use Teresa of Calcutta Hall but further work is needed to determine if that is possible.

What is the timeline for restoration and its major milestones? When will this project be complete?

The Restoration is currently scheduled to begin in March of 2025. The mock-up work that took place in the nave is helping us to prepare and plan for the larger restoration. There are six phases to the restoration. The church exterior is expected to be completed in 2025, the church interior in 2026 and the remaining campus projects in 2027. We are also planning for improvements to the organ which would take place in 2028-2029. All of these dates are subject to change as plans have not been finalized.