Reverend Michael G. Woost Bishop | Diocese of Cleveland

The iconic baldacchino in St. Peter's Basilica, created by Gian Lorenzo Bernini, is set to undergo a major restoration project thanks to the Knights of Columbus. The fraternal organization announced their commitment to restore the nearly 400-year-old bronze, marble, and gilded wood structure that stands over the high altar and the tomb of St. Peter.

The restoration of the baldacchino will be led by Pietro Zander, head of the Necropolis and Classical Antiquities of the Fabbrica di San Pietro in the Vatican. The project is expected to begin soon and be completed by the Jubilee Year 2025.

Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly expressed the Knights' honor in supporting the restoration project, stating, "It points to the reality of God's love for us and His coming down to earth to dwell with us and to build the Church upon St. Peter and his profession of faith." He also thanked Pope Francis and Cardinal Mauro Gambetti for allowing the Knights to partner in this endeavor.

The Knights of Columbus has a long-standing relationship with the Vatican, dating back over a century. Kelly highlighted the Knights' history of support, including opening sports fields for underprivileged youth in Rome at the request of Pope Benedict XV after World War I. Since 1980, the Knights have sponsored 17 other restoration projects, including the cleaning of the façade of St. Peter's Basilica in preparation for the Jubilee Year 2000.

Kelly expressed gratitude for the privilege of serving the Church through these restoration projects, stating, "In addition to all the service we carry out for the poor, for our parishes and families, the Knights are very grateful for the privilege of serving the Church in this way."

The Knights of Columbus, founded in 1882 by Blessed Michael McGivney, have grown to become the world's premier lay Catholic men's organization, with over 2 million members in 16,600 local councils. Their dedication to service is evident in their contributions, as Knights worldwide donated about 50 million service hours and nearly $185 million for worthy causes in their communities in 2022.

The restoration of the baldacchino in St. Peter's Basilica is another testament to the Knights of Columbus' commitment to preserving and supporting the rich history and art of the Catholic Church. Through their partnership with the Vatican, the Knights continue to demonstrate their unwavering devotion to their faith and their mission to serve the Church and those in need.

To learn more about the Knights of Columbus and their initiatives, visit their website.