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 carefully preserving the church’s heritage, enhancing its interior beauty, and restoring its devotional items.
Project Leadership and Liturgical Planning
Liturgical Designer Rolf Rohn of Rohn and Associates Design led the project, collaborating closely with Reverend Monsignor John M. Campbell and Father Mark A. Moore to assess the building’s needs, prioritize liturgical functionality, and maintain the Basilica’s historical and spiritual integrity. Liturgical Interior Designer Kathy Maglicco developed a harmonious and majestic decorating scheme, thoughtfully integrating artwork, furnishings, and devotional elements to enrich the worship experience and honor the sacred character of the 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 drawing attention to its architectural features and restored artworks.
Interior Enhancements
A new permanent altar made of carved Italian marble, surrounded by statues of the Twelve Apostles and housing relics of saints, replaced a portable one and now commands attention and reverence during the celebration of Mass. A matching baptismal font was introduced and encircled by full-round miniature white Carrara marble statues of contemporary saints, carefully selected by Monsignor Campbell and Rolf to resonate with those experiencing the sacred Rite of Baptism. 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 and ambo completed the functional renewals of the sanctuary.
Artistic Additions
An inspiring mosaic of Our Lady of Perpetual Help and elaborate Blessed Mother murals and inscriptions around the dome emphasize Marian devotion, while meaningful symbols elevate expansive clerestory spaces. A Eucharistic mural designed by Rolf and painted by Renate commemorates the first Holy Mass offered in what would later become Marietta, Ohio. Two beloved parish dogs resting beneath the table add a quiet note of local affection to the historical scene. Side shrines featuring a crucifixion scene and statues of the Holy Family were also added. 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 renewed 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 aired on the Eternal Word Television Network (EWTN).
Ongoing Projects
Currently, we are collaborating with a local agency on a visitor’s guide that highlights the basilica’s architectural and spiritual beauty. Through our sacred art and liturgical design 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.
See the full project here.
