Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption

In the heart of Saginaw, Michigan, stands a beacon of faith, history, and architectural beauty: the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption, often referred to as St. Mary's Cathedral. This stunning Catholic cathedral, the seat of the Diocese of Saginaw, is not only a place of worship but also a testament to the rich cultural and historical tapestry of the region.

The Origins of St. Mary’s Church

The story of St. Mary's Cathedral begins in 1853 when the Rev. Henry J.H. Schutjes established it as a mission of St. Joseph parish in Bay City. The first church building was dedicated the same year, and a second structure followed ten years later. By 1866, St. Mary's had grown into a fully-fledged parish with the Rev. Francis T. Van der Bom as its first pastor. The parish's commitment to education was evident early on, with the opening of its first school in 1868, staffed by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary from Monroe.

As the parish community grew, so did its influence. In 1873, St. Joseph Parish in Saginaw was founded from St. Mary's, and the following year, the German parishioners established Sacred Heart Parish. The parish's role in the community extended beyond spiritual guidance; in 1874, Father Van der Bom and Dr. Benjamin B. Ross organized St. Mary's Hospital, staffed by the Daughters of Charity of St. Vincent de Paul.

A New Era: The Cathedral

Construction of the current church building began in 1901 and was completed in 1903. This magnificent structure, the third to house the parish, was dedicated on July 23, 1903. The church's Gothic Revival architecture, with its towering spires and intricate stonework, is a sight to behold and a testament to the craftsmanship of the era.

St. Mary's Church was elevated to cathedral status on February 26, 1938, when Pope Pius XI established the Diocese of Saginaw. The cathedral underwent extensive renovations in 1941, including the installation of a new altar. Further renovations in 1978 saw the altar and cathedra moved to the main floor area, the creation of a Blessed Sacrament chapel, and the replacement of pews with movable chairs, among other changes.

Modern Renovations and Enhancements

The turn of the millennium brought additional improvements to the cathedral. In 2000, a covered entrance and elevator were added, a new sound system was installed, and necessary repairs were made to both the interior and exterior of the building. A significant renovation project began in 2017, resulting in a $4.7 million transformation. This included a reconfiguration of the interior, the installation of a new marble altar, ambo, and baptismal font, and the addition of a new section containing handicapped accessible restrooms.

The Pipe Organ: A Musical Marvel

The cathedral is also home to a remarkable pipe organ. Originally from St. Joseph's Church in Bay City, the 1930 Kilgen pipe organ was rebuilt in the cathedral during the 2017 renovation by the Lauck Pipe Organ Co. of Otsego, Michigan. This impressive instrument features 30 ranks of pipes, totaling approximately 1,800, with two consoles and three manuals each, along with a pedalboard. The organ's rich, resonant tones add a profound dimension to the cathedral's liturgical celebrations.

A Community Anchor

The Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption is more than just an architectural gem; it is a cornerstone of the Saginaw community. The former convent, now housing the parish offices, the Cathedral Mental Health Clinic, and Abortion Alternatives Inc., underscores the cathedral's ongoing commitment to serving the community's needs. Additionally, St. Dominic Chapel serves as a day chapel for the parish, providing a serene space for reflection and prayer.

Visitors to the cathedral are often struck by its grandeur and the sense of history that permeates its walls. From its humble beginnings as a mission church to its current status as the diocesan cathedral, St. Mary's has played a pivotal role in the spiritual and cultural life of Saginaw. Its stunning architecture, rich history, and vibrant community make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring this charming Michigan city.

In conclusion, the Cathedral of Mary of the Assumption stands as a beacon of faith, history, and community in Saginaw. Its architectural splendor, rich historical narrative, and ongoing commitment to serving the community make it a true gem of the region. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a place of peace and reflection, a visit to this magnificent cathedral is sure to be a memorable experience.