2025 Facilities Update

December 17, 2025
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In 2025, we completed important upgrades and repairs to preserve the historic buildings entrusted to our care and to ensure their longevity for future generations. These preservation efforts would not be possible without the generous support of Our Lady’s benefactors.

Campus Assessment and Planning

Earlier this year, we began a comprehensive campus assessment and planning project with the support of a generous matching grant from the Center for Congregations and professional assistance from Browning Day. This process involved a thorough review of existing facilities to determine how each building could best support the mission as a pilgrimage site dedicated to Our Lady of America.

Guided by mission priorities, a campus plan was developed to:

  • Accommodate up to 3,000 visitors daily
  • Provide convocation space for catechetical activities
  • Share the story of Our Lady of America

At its core, the campus is envisioned as a place where pilgrims come to be healed, encounter the Peace of Christ, and depart with renewed hope. While the plan is not yet finalized, it provides sufficient detail to guide preservation priorities and inform responsible allocation of resources.

Storm Damage and Emergency Repairs

Wind Damage

In the spring, a powerful storm caused the loss of approximately 15 mature trees and roof damage to several structures. The historic farm manager’s house required a complete roof replacement.

Following a heavy rainstorm, running stormwater was discovered beneath the Oratory. Investigation revealed that three 6-inch downspouts were discharging into broken and clogged drain tiles beneath a concrete patio adjacent to the Oratory’s foundation. The patio was removed, the damaged drain tiles uncovered and repaired, and proper drainage restored.

Drain Tile Failuere

Around the same time, a significant collapse of a 24-inch drain tile occurred on the south lawn. While the drainage serves State Road 9, the drain tile is owned by the center. Excavation and replacement were necessary to protect the grounds and prevent further damage.

Plaza Stabilization and Historic Preservation

A significant repair took place on the south plaza, where a century-old retaining wall—originally part of the 1895 Spa foundation—had failed. The wall was removed and replaced with a reinforced concrete retaining wall, stabilizing the plaza and ensuring long-term safety.

South Plaza Retaining Wall

Capital Improvements

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The most notable improvement in 2025 was the installation of heating and air conditioning systems. Three new systems were installed to serve the Sisters’ Chapel, Bishop’s Suite, and Vesting Room, and the first-floor system for the west wing was completed, recovering about 3,500 sq. ft. of usable space.  

Because the historic structure initially relied on steam heat and lacked ductwork, extensive modifications were required, including drilling through 12–18-inch masonry walls and upgrading portions of the electrical distribution system.  

Upcoming Demolition Needs

A non-historic dining room extension has sustained extensive deterioration from long-term water damage and must be demolished for safety and appearance. Additional non-historic structures may require removal in the coming years. None of these buildings are part of the long-term campus plan.

Collapsing Dinning Room Extension

Projects Scheduled or In Progress

• Tuckpointing – $60,000 (Bid, partial completion in 2026)
• Dining Room Extension Demolition – $55,000 (Scheduled)
• Laundry Building Demolition – $55,000 (Bid, Deferred)
• Parking Lot Retaining Wall Repair – $15,000 (In Progress)
• Historic Farm Manager’s House Roof – $13,000 (Completed)
• Oratory Steps and Brickwork Repair – $15,000 (Pending Bid)
• Exterior Painting – $25,000 (Summer 2025)
• Oratory Ceiling Insulation Upgrade – $35,000 (Bid, Deferred)

This Old House: Looking Ahead

This historic building is a true gem, with a rich past unfolding into a promising future. At its heart is the Oratory—a sacred space where Heaven and earth meet, peace and healing abound, and the grace and mercy of Jesus Christ are available to all who come.

In 2026, planning and architectural work will begin to envision a fitting Oratory from which Our Lady may continue to call her children to her Son, Jesus Christ.

This Old House
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