Craftsmen from Hoefer’s Custom Stained Glass are restoring the stained-glass windows of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. This restoration is part of the "One Family, Fully Alive in Christ!" capital campaign. To learn more about this initiative, interested parties can visit OneFamilyFullyAlive.org.

The windows have been a silent witness to numerous significant events such as weddings, baptisms, ordinations, funerals, and Masses over the years. Scott Hoefer, owner of Hoefer’s Custom Stained Glass in South Hutchinson, is leading efforts to preserve these historic pieces for future generations of the Diocese of Wichita's faithful.

The restoration process began with removing a window depicting the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple on October 15. Most windows will be reconditioned at Hoefer's South Hutchinson shop, while some smaller ones will undergo cleaning and repairs at the Cathedral itself.

Hoefer described that they have removed glass from twin ventilators at the bottom of a window and created rubbings to document lead patterns. These ventilators were initially designed to allow air into the church before air conditioning was installed.

Different widths of lead used in constructing these windows give them unique character. "It gives the window character," Hoefer said, emphasizing their commitment to using original materials during restoration. Photographs and measurements ensure accuracy in restoration efforts.

The glass is soaked to facilitate removal of cement putty packed around lead parts. "We’re cleaning it up and wiping off the painted portion," he stated. The team checks all painted glass to confirm its durability before proceeding with further work.

Lead deterioration over nearly 100 years has led to bowing issues with some windows. "The lead is old and tired," Hoefer noted, explaining their need for additional lead supplies for this project.

Craftsmen plan to reconstruct some window panels soon. “That’s basically the process,” Hoefer explained: removing, disassembling, cleaning, and repairing necessary sections.

Many cracks are repaired using ultraviolet-hardened glue stronger than glass itself. Designed in sections originally makes removal easier for Cathedral windows compared to other projects Hoefer has encountered.

No drastic measures are required for these windows; however, metal ventilator frames will receive sandblasting and powder coating treatments instead of traditional Rustoleum paint applications.

Hoefer anticipates completion within four weeks: “The windows—they’re just tired,” he remarked optimistically about progress thus far.

Mike Wescott emphasized gratitude towards donors supporting campaign priorities through ongoing fundraising activities until mid-next year: “With work beginning on these beautiful windows," Wescott commented further highlighting milestone achievements collectively celebrated by all involved parties supporting this cause together as one community united under shared goals aimed towards enhancing worship experiences offered within sacred spaces like those found inside iconic structures such as Cathedrals worldwide today—particularly those belonging here locally too!