Rev. James D. Conley, D.D., S.T.L. | Diocese of Lincoln website

St. Patrick Church in Utica has recently completed a beautification project aimed at enhancing both the interior and exterior of the church, with a focus on glorifying God. This project follows significant structural repairs made over five years ago to their 1915 building.

Jane Slawnyk, a long-time parish member, expressed satisfaction with the renovations: “It was just plain for a while, which was fine,” she said. “Slowly and surely, people donated and gave money to get it back to what it used to be.”

Under the guidance of Msgr. Mark Huber, art historian Mary Ellen Kudron and muralist David Reiser were commissioned for this task. Both are affiliated with St. Patrick Parish in Lincoln and have experience working together on various projects within the Lincoln Diocese.

Upon visiting St. Patrick Church in Utica, Kudron noted its well-maintained condition: “When we walked into that church, we knew it was well cared for,” she said.

The duo worked closely with the parish community to incorporate elements meaningful to them. Kudron highlighted the importance of preserving familiarity: “A church is baptisms, it’s weddings, it’s funerals,” she explained.

Reiser added: “We listen to what [the parish’s] hopes and dreams are...and develop something that’s beautiful that glorifies God.”

The beautification process included examining stained-glass windows for color inspiration and consulting old photographs for original design ideas. Notably absent was any reference to St. Patrick himself; thus shamrocks were incorporated as a motif due to their association with him.

After thorough research by Kudron on period-appropriate decoration styles, Reiser executed these concepts artistically inside the church over several weeks.

Meanwhile outside Devin Slawnyk contributed by installing white benches around campus as part of his Eagle Scout project under Msgr Huber's supervision—encouraging reflection or socialization among visitors.

Reflecting on completion results Jane Slawnyk shared her delight saying: "It feels like the church I grew up in," further recommending others consider employing talents such as those possessed by Kudron & Reiser when contemplating similar enhancements elsewhere

Reiser expressed fulfillment from participating artistically stating: "I feel really blessed…to do this work as an artist." Meanwhile according To Kudrun ,“The beautification is a reflection of what our heavenly realm might look like...to give glory & thanks To God.”