What is the Significance of St. Bernard Church Becoming the New Cathedral for the Diocese of Madison?

Brief Overview

• The Diocese of Madison has received approval from the Holy See to designate St. Bernard Church as its new cathedral, filling a void left since the 2005 arson fire that destroyed St. Raphael Cathedral.
• Bishop Donald J. Hying emphasized the cathedral’s role as a central place of worship and a symbol of unity for the diocese’s 11 counties.
• St. Bernard Church, built in 1927, is undergoing a $15 million renovation to prepare for its elevated status, with completion expected by late 2025.
• The decision to elevate an existing parish rather than build anew reflects a strategic effort to use diocesan resources efficiently, aligning with the “Into the Deep” program.
• The new cathedral will host significant liturgical events, such as ordinations and the Chrism Mass, restoring a diocesan home for these celebrations.
• This development marks a significant moment of renewal for the Catholic community in Madison, symbolizing hope and continuity after nearly two decades without a cathedral.

Detailed Response

Historical Context of the Diocese’s Cathedral Loss

The Diocese of Madison, established in 1946, has been without a cathedral since March 14, 2005, when an arson fire destroyed St. Raphael Cathedral in downtown Madison. This tragic event left the diocese without a central place of worship, forcing it to rely on various parishes to host major liturgical events. The loss was deeply felt, as a cathedral serves as the bishop’s home church and a focal point for diocesan unity. For nearly two decades, the diocese operated without a fixed cathedral, a situation described by Fr. Michael Radowicz, pastor of St. Bernard, as a “sojourn in the desert.” The absence of a cathedral created logistical challenges for events like priestly ordinations and the annual Chrism Mass, where holy oils are blessed. The decision to designate a new cathedral was a response to this prolonged absence and a desire to restore a spiritual home for the diocese. Bishop Donald J. Hying, appointed in 2019, prioritized addressing this issue as part of the diocese’s strategic planning. The process involved careful discernment to balance spiritual, practical, and financial considerations. The destruction of St. Raphael, a historic church with its cornerstone laid in 1854, underscored the need for a new cathedral to continue its legacy. The approval of St. Bernard as the new cathedral marks a significant step toward healing this loss.

The Decision to Elevate St. Bernard Church

In December 2022, Bishop Hying outlined three options for resolving the cathedral question as part of the diocese’s “Into the Deep” strategic planning process. These options included building a new cathedral on the St. Raphael site, maintaining the status quo of using various parishes for diocesan events, or elevating an existing parish church to cathedral status. After extensive consultation, Hying rejected building a new cathedral due to its high cost, estimated to be significantly more than the $15 million renovation budget for St. Bernard. The status quo was also deemed undesirable, as it lacked the permanence and symbolism of a dedicated cathedral. Elevating an existing parish was chosen as the most practical and economical solution. St. Bernard Church, located on Atwood Avenue in Madison, was selected for its suitable location and architectural qualities. The decision required approval from the Holy See, which was granted on September 11, 2023, by Pope Francis through the Apostolic Nunciature in Washington, D.C. This approval was announced publicly on January 24, 2024, during a press conference at St. Bernard. The choice of St. Bernard aligns with Church law, which requires a cathedral to be within the city of the diocese’s seat, in this case, Madison. The elevation of St. Bernard reflects a commitment to stewardship and resourcefulness within the diocese.

Why St. Bernard Church Was Chosen

St. Bernard Church was selected for its historical significance, architectural suitability, and strategic location in Madison. Built in 1927, the church is a Gothic Revival structure designed by Madison architect John Flad, constructed from local sandstone. Its architecture, including stained-glass windows and ornate design, was deemed “cathedral-worthy” by Bishop Hying for its ability to inspire transcendence. The church’s location on the east side of Madison places it in the heart of the city, fulfilling the canonical requirement for a cathedral’s urban setting. St. Bernard has a rich history, having been established in 1907 and serving as the largest Catholic parish in Madison when the diocese was founded in 1946. Its prominence as the “Mother Church of Madison’s East Side” made it a fitting candidate. The church’s existing infrastructure, though in need of updates, provided a cost-effective alternative to constructing a new building. Fr. Michael Radowicz, pastor since 2013, noted the parish’s readiness to embrace its new role as a diocesan hub. The decision also considered the church’s capacity to accommodate large gatherings for events like ordinations. St. Bernard’s selection represents a blend of practicality and reverence for its historical and spiritual legacy.

The Role of a Cathedral in Catholic Tradition

In Catholic tradition, a cathedral is the bishop’s church, housing the cathedra, or bishop’s chair, which symbolizes his authority and service to the diocese (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1186). It serves as the spiritual and liturgical center for the diocese, hosting major events such as ordinations, the Chrism Mass, and significant feast day celebrations. The cathedral is a symbol of unity, bringing together Catholics from across the diocese for worship and communion. It also represents the Church’s presence in the heart of the community, often serving as a cultural and artistic landmark. In the case of Madison, the cathedral’s role is especially significant after nearly 20 years without one, as it restores a sense of diocesan identity. The cathedral is not merely a parish church but a “mother church” for the entire diocese, as Bishop Hying described. It is a place where the faithful gather to encounter Christ, particularly through the Eucharist (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1324). The elevation of St. Bernard to cathedral status aligns with this tradition, providing a fixed location for diocesan-wide liturgies. The church’s new role will strengthen the diocese’s mission of evangelization and pastoral care. The cathedral’s significance extends beyond liturgy, serving as a visible sign of faith in the city of Madison.

The “Into the Deep” Strategic Plan

The designation of St. Bernard as the new cathedral is part of the Diocese of Madison’s “Into the Deep” strategic plan, launched to realign resources for mission effectiveness. This initiative addresses challenges such as declining parishioner numbers and financial constraints by consolidating 102 parishes into 30 pastorates by 2024. The plan aims to strengthen the diocese’s ability to evangelize and serve its 11 counties. Choosing to renovate an existing church rather than build anew reflects the plan’s emphasis on stewardship. The $15 million renovation project for St. Bernard is funded through a separate capital campaign, distinct from the diocese’s Annual Catholic Appeal, ensuring that other ministries remain supported. Bishop Hying noted that the cathedral project is an “apt symbol” of this broader effort to transform existing structures for contemporary needs. The consolidation of parishes has allowed the diocese to focus resources on key priorities, including the cathedral’s restoration. The “Into the Deep” plan also emphasizes evangelization, with initiatives like welcoming 75 college students into the Church at Easter 2024. The cathedral will serve as a focal point for these efforts, hosting events that foster unity and faith formation. The strategic plan underscores the diocese’s commitment to a vibrant future, with St. Bernard as a central element.

Renovation Details and Progress

The transformation of St. Bernard Church into a cathedral involves a comprehensive $15 million renovation, expected to be completed by late 2025. The project includes replacing the concrete floor with a thicker slab to meet modern load-bearing standards, to be covered with terrazzo tiles for aesthetic and durability purposes. The roof is being replaced with Luigi tiles imported from Italy, enhancing the building’s longevity and beauty. Two pre-World War I pipe organs are being restored in Missouri for installation, and new pews are being crafted in Rochester, New York. Handmade oak furnishings, including a high altar and the bishop’s cathedra, are being constructed locally. The interior is being reornamented to reflect the church’s original 1927 Gothic Revival design, with a majestic blue ceiling featuring stars to symbolize heaven. Scaffolding fills the sanctuary as painters and craftsmen work to restore the space. The project also includes exterior upgrades, such as a new parking lot to meet state requirements and a porte-cochère to protect visitors from the elements. Two bells from the former St. Raphael Cathedral will be installed in St. Bernard’s bell tower, linking the new cathedral to its predecessor. The renovations aim to create a space that inspires awe and serves the diocese’s liturgical needs.

Challenges of Renovating a Historic Building

Renovating a nearly century-old church presents significant challenges, as noted by project manager Paul Lang. The building, constructed in 1927, requires updates to meet modern standards while preserving its historic character as a landmark. Workers have encountered unexpected issues, such as clay-heavy soil that needed excavation and replacement with gravel and geogrid fabric to create a stable foundation for the new parking lot. The concrete floor required re-pouring to support increased weight, a process completed in April 2024. Delays in materials, such as rebar for the porte-cochère, have slowed progress, requiring careful coordination. The project must balance modern functionality with the church’s original Gothic Revival aesthetic, ensuring that renovations enhance rather than detract from its historical integrity. The restoration of stained-glass windows, some already completed, is a meticulous process to maintain their original beauty. The diocese is also addressing community concerns, such as the removal of trees for the parking lot, by developing a landscape beautification plan. Despite these challenges, the project remains on track for completion by late 2025. The renovations demonstrate the diocese’s commitment to preserving St. Bernard’s legacy while preparing it for its new role.

Funding the Cathedral Project

The $15 million renovation is funded through a dedicated capital campaign, separate from the diocese’s regular operations. Over $10 million has been raised or pledged, with $3 million coming from St. Bernard parishioners and $1.1 million transferred from a fund for the former St. Raphael Cathedral. Chief Development Officer Paul Merline reported encouraging progress, with outreach to individual donors and families across the diocese. A direct mail campaign, supported by Bishop Hying, has encouraged broader participation. The diocese aims to raise the remaining funds to cover unexpected costs typical of renovating an old building. Additional projects, such as a steeple for the bell tower and a mausoleum for past and future bishops, are planned for after the main renovation. The fundraising effort reflects the diocese’s commitment to transparency and stewardship, ensuring that the project does not strain other ministries. The community’s response has been positive, with many seeing the cathedral as a shared investment in the diocese’s future. The campaign underscores the importance of collective support in achieving this historic milestone. The diocese continues to seek donations to complete the project, emphasizing its role as a spiritual home for all Catholics in the region.

The Spiritual Significance of the New Cathedral

The elevation of St. Bernard to cathedral status carries profound spiritual significance for the Diocese of Madison. Bishop Hying described the cathedral as a “symbolic mother” for the diocese, a place where Catholics encounter Christ and find unity (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1186). The cathedral will serve as a center for worship, hosting Masses that draw the faithful from across 11 counties. Its role in the Chrism Mass, where oils are blessed for sacramental use, underscores its importance in the diocese’s liturgical life (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1294). The cathedral’s dedication to St. Bernard of Clairvaux, a 12th-century Cistercian abbot and mystic, adds a layer of spiritual depth, as his teachings emphasized contemplation and devotion. The restoration of bells from St. Raphael Cathedral connects the new cathedral to the diocese’s history, symbolizing continuity and resurrection after loss. The cathedral will also support evangelization efforts, such as welcoming new Catholics, with over 100 college students in formation for Easter 2025. It will stand as a visible sign of God’s presence in Madison, as Bishop Hying noted, reminding the community of Christ’s victory. The project reflects the diocese’s hope for renewal and its commitment to faith. The cathedral’s consecration, planned for late 2025, will mark a new chapter in the diocese’s spiritual journey.

Community Impact and Future Vision

The transformation of St. Bernard into a cathedral is expected to have a significant impact on the Madison community. Its location on Atwood Avenue places it in a vibrant urban area, making it accessible to both Catholics and the broader public. The cathedral will serve as a cultural and spiritual landmark, hosting events that draw visitors from across the diocese and beyond. The project has sparked excitement among parishioners, who see it as an honor and an opportunity to welcome a wider community. Fr. Radowicz noted the parish’s enthusiasm for its new role as a diocesan hub. The cathedral will also contribute to the revitalization of Madison’s east side, with its renovated campus enhancing the area’s aesthetic and spiritual vitality. Community concerns, such as tree removal for the parking lot, are being addressed through thoughtful planning, including a beautification initiative. The cathedral’s future vision includes hosting educational and charitable activities, aligning with the Church’s mission of service (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 1108). Bishop Hying envisions it as a place that draws people to faith, particularly in a city known for its diverse population. The project symbolizes hope and renewal, offering a space for Catholics to gather and grow in faith.

Connection to Broader Catholic Renewal

The St. Bernard cathedral project draws parallels to other Catholic renewal efforts, notably the restoration of Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris after its 2019 fire. Bishop Hying described this as a “beautiful symmetry,” highlighting the theme of resurrection in both projects. The rebuilding of a cathedral after loss reflects the Church’s resilience and commitment to its mission (Catechism of the Catholic Church, 768). St. Bernard’s elevation aligns with the broader Catholic emphasis on creating spaces that inspire worship and community. The project also resonates with the diocese’s evangelization efforts, such as forming new Catholics and supporting seminarians. The $44 million campaign for seminarian formation underscores the diocese’s focus on fostering vocations, complementing the cathedral’s role as a liturgical center. The “Into the Deep” plan reflects a global trend of dioceses adapting to modern challenges while preserving tradition. St. Bernard’s transformation is a local expression of this universal mission, grounding the diocese in its historical roots while looking forward. The cathedral will serve as a testament to the enduring presence of the Church in Madison. The project’s completion will mark a significant moment of renewal for Catholics in southern Wisconsin.

Conclusion

The designation of St. Bernard Church as the new cathedral for the Diocese of Madison is a milestone of faith, unity, and renewal. After nearly two decades without a cathedral, the diocese has found a fitting home in a historic parish that embodies both tradition and potential. The $15 million renovation project, set to conclude in late 2025, will transform St. Bernard into a space worthy of its new role. Bishop Hying’s vision, supported by the “Into the Deep” plan, ensures that the cathedral will serve as a spiritual and cultural center for the diocese. The project reflects careful stewardship, balancing the preservation of history with the needs of a modern diocese. The community’s support, through fundraising and enthusiasm, underscores the shared commitment to this endeavor. St. Bernard’s elevation is a sign of hope, connecting the diocese’s past with its future mission. The cathedral will stand as a place of worship, evangelization, and unity for Catholics across 11 counties. Its consecration will mark the end of a long “sojourn in the desert” and the beginning of a new era of faith. The Diocese of Madison looks forward to this cathedral as a beacon of God’s love in the heart of the city.