The Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption in Marietta, OH, was recently designated a minor basilica by the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments in Rome. This honorific title, bestowed by the Pope, is reserved for Catholic churches of notable religious significance. The journey to this distinction began in 2006, with a comprehensive renewal project aimed at preserving the church’s heritage, enhancing its interior beauty, and restoring its devotional items.
Revitalization Efforts
Liturgical Designer Rolf Rohn of Rohn and Associates Design led the project, working closely with Reverend Monsignor John M. Campbell and Father Mark A. Moore to identify and execute the building's needs. Liturgical Interior Designer Kathy Maglicco developed a majestic decorating scheme to complement and enhance the sacred space.
Exterior and Structural Improvements
The basilica's exterior renovations addressed structural issues on the bell tower and repaired crumbling stonework. Inside, water-damaged walls were replastered and repainted, while broken art glass was refurbished to enrich the ambiance and convey profound theological truths. Rolf enlarged the gathering area and established a proper Reconciliation Room, along with provisions for handicapped accessibility to the chapel and sacristy. Additionally, he updated the lighting to be energy-efficient, properly illuminating the church and highlighting its architectural elements and artworks.
Interior Enhancements
A new permanent altar made of carved Italian marble, encircled by statues of the Twelve Apostles and housing relics of saints, replaced a portable one. It now commands attention and reverence during the celebration of Mass. Artist Renate Rohn restored faded murals from the early 1900s to their original grandeur, and Rohn artisans refinished original liturgical elements, including hanging sanctuary lamps, large candlesticks, the processional cross, and various chairs. A new tabernacle stand, ambo, baptismal font, a crucifixion scene, and statues of the Holy Family were also introduced.
Artistic Additions
An inspiring mosaic of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and elaborate inscriptions around the dome emphasize Marian devotion, while meaningful symbols elevate expansive clerestory spaces. Rolf and his team also created a special Tintinnabulum—a ceremonial bell used in processions—for the consecration of the noble Basilica.
Inaugural Mass and Celebrations
The Inaugural Mass for The Basilica of St. Mary of the Assumption took place on November 5th, 2013. The Principal Celebrant was His Excellency, The Most Reverend Jeffrey M. Monforton, Bishop of Steubenville, with Concelebrants: His Eminence William C. Skurla, Metropolitan of the Byzantine Catholic Metropolitan Church and Archeparch of Pittsburgh, and Their Excellencies, The Most Reverend Gilbert I. Sheldon, Bishop Emeritus of Steubenville, and The Most Reverend R. Daniel Conlon, Bishop of Joliet-in-Illinois. Rolf, Kathy, and Renate attended the celebration, which was videotaped for broadcast on the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN).
Ongoing Projects
Currently, we are working on paintings for the narthex to represent the First Mass and collaborating with a local agency on a visitor's guide that highlights this distinguished beauty. Through our expertise, the Basilica has been restored to its original splendor and beyond, now worthy of hosting special liturgical celebrations and providing pastoral outreach to the people of God.
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