Reinforcing Our
Cathedral: $7.5m
These modernization initiatives are designed
to strengthen the building, enhance safety,
improve efficiency, and reduce long-term costs.
Critical Tuckpointing
The Joliet limestone of the exterior has endured more than a century and a half of weather, leaving joints and decorative stone vulnerable to water damage, erosion, and persistent leaks. We received an inspection and estimate from Weiss Janey quoting the Cathedral $5 million to do a long-term repair. This is a priority of the Cathedral to get complete.
Modernizing Lighting
The current Lutron lighting system relies on outdated incandescent bulbs and obsolete controls that create inconsistent lighting and frequent, costly failures. The Cardinal as graciously granted seed funds to begin our work, however additional funds must be raised to continue the maintenance and upkeep of the lighting.
Updating Climate Control System
The Cathedral’s 1960’s HVAC system is failing, causing unstable temperatures, costly repairs, and risking serious damage to the organ from humidity fluctuations.
Renovating Sacristy
The sacristy is one of the Cathedral’s busiest spaces, hosting weddings, liturgical prep, and clergy gatherings. But its worn carpet, original 1969 vinyl counters, and limited storage no longer meet these needs.
Enhancing Safety and Security
Critical safety upgrades are needed to bring the Cathedral up to code. Rusting iron gates on parish windows will be replaced and a new emergency exit added. The rectory elevator doors lack visibility panels, creating hazards. Installing windows will ensure compliance and improve safety.
Unexpected Projects
As with any historic building, unexpected projects and sudden expenses can inevitably arise. Any remaining funds will be directed toward the continuous support of building maintenance, helping to preserve the Cathedral’s integrity and offset future budget pressures.
Our Campaign Targets
Ways to Give
When you are considering your pledge to the campaign, you can consider many different option including pledges of cash, bequests, IRAs, and QCDs.