Restoring America’s First Basilica

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Your support is vital to preserving The Basilica of Saint Mary as a place of hope, healing, and spiritual renewal.

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.

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

We are excited to begin renovations upstairs and to celebrate Mass downstairs in Teresa of Calcutta Hall. While this represents a change in how we celebrate Mass, our shared celebration of the Eucharist remains unchanged. Specific dates for this move will be shared in upcoming parish communications and on campus signage.

What is the timeline for restoration and its major milestones?

This multi-year project began in 2024 and will be completed in phases, starting with the exterior and then moving to the interior. We are encouraged by the positive response to our restoration efforts, and the timeline will be guided by fundraising progress and recommendations from restoration experts.

From the Restoring Beauty Blog

Stone Cleaning

Posted by Basilica Staff
On December 13, 2025

The Basilica’s interior is faced with 4-inch-thick Mankato limestone. Throughout 2025, conservation crews cleaned the ambulatories in the church. The cleaning materia

Audio Enhancements

Posted by Basilica Staff
On November 13, 2025

From the 2025 Fall Basilica Magazine One of the pillars of The Basilica Restoration Plan is enhancing the sacred experience by improving...

Exterior Tuckpointing

Posted by Basilica Staff
On October 1, 2025

Throughout 2025, crews from American Masonry Restoration have been performing exterior tuckpointing on the church as part of a comprehensive building envelope...