At Our Lady of the Assumption in Copiague, New York, a church rising anew after a devastating fire has been transformed into a vibrant sanctuary through the thoughtful integration of Catholic murals and custom liturgical design. Rohn & Associates Design, specialists in liturgical art and sacred space planning, led the creation of a comprehensive artistic plan, collaborating closely with parish leadership to ensure every element supports both worship and the spiritual life of the community.
The design of the church’s interior began with dialogue between Rohn’s team of liturgical artists and the pastor, liturgy committee, and parish stakeholders. Together, they identified pivotal moments in salvation history and Marian devotion that would most profoundly resonate with the parish’s faith journey. This collaboration ensured that the art would both inspire and guide parishioners in their prayer and reflection.
A highlight of the new liturgical art program is a series of paintings illustrating the Seven Sorrows of Mary. These sorrows mark defining events in her life—the Flight into Egypt, her encounter with Jesus on the way to Calvary, and, often shown as the Pietà or “Sixth Sorrow,” the moment Jesus’ lifeless body is placed in her arms, echoing how she once cradled him as an infant. Each scene invites the faithful to contemplate Mary’s sharing in Christ’s suffering and her unwavering faith, drawing viewers into a deeper understanding of love, sacrifice, and redemption.
The creative process began with small black-and-white concept drawings, which evolved into detailed full-color renderings. Full-scale sketches ensured correct proportion and placement, maintaining harmony with the church interior. Once finalized, the artwork was completed in the studio, transported, and installed, transforming the church into an uplifting devotional environment.
Future plans include a mural of the Annunciation at the church’s front entrance. The Annunciation—when the Angel Gabriel announced to Mary that she would conceive the Son of God (Luke 1:26–38)—testifies to her willing acceptance of God’s plan and her role as Theotokos (“God-bearer”), celebrated by the Church for centuries. This mural will greet parishioners and visitors, reinforcing Mary’s presence and example of faith.
Throughout the project, Rohn’s team worked closely with church leadership in workshops and consultations, ensuring that every artistic choice—from iconography to color and scale—aligned with Catholic teaching and the liturgical function of the space. The result is a sanctuary where liturgical art, liturgical furnishings, and visual storytelling enhance worship and strengthen the parish community.
Today, Our Lady of the Assumption shines as a sacred space where murals, custom liturgical furnishings, and thoughtfully restored statues bring the life of Mary and the mysteries of Christ to life. Each piece invites parishioners and visitors to connect more deeply with the faith, celebrating the parish’s renewal and resilience through times of trial and transformation.
Visit our website to view the completed sacred art and liturgical design at Our Lady of the Assumption in Copiague, NY.
