It has been almost two years since we were able to give you an up-date of our Choir Renovations! We are happy to say that the work in the Choir is complete! The beautiful woodwork was completed by Swiatek Studios. We are profoundly grateful to Brett Swiatek, Jon Trabucco (the Master wood carver) and his nephew, Gary who also does marble work for Swiatek, for their professional and superb labor in putting up the finished woodwork. For the past two years we became accustomed to looking at the raw studs which formed the “skeleton” (which we jokingly called “pigeon holes”) for the finished woodwork. This preliminary work was masterfully done by Marianacci Builders.

Jon and Gary came to the Monastery on a Friday afternoon in early February to deliver the wood. We were intrigued by the numerous pieces of wood: many long and thin, others large with intricate carvings, and still others quite small, these latter stored in boxes. We wondered how all these would fit together??? All the pieces were carefully placed in the long hallway leading to the Choir. It was tempting to sing: “Deck the halls with piles of woodwork”! Jon assured us that every piece was marked, so they knew exactly where each piece was to go. Besides, Jon said, “Gary has the whole pattern memorized!

The following Monday morning, shortly after Mass, Jon and Gary arrived at the Monastery to begin the installation of the wood. Brett also came in the early afternoon to help. They worked all day throughout the week! Periodically, our Mother Prioress would quietly go to the entrance of the Choir to check out the progress and take a few pictures.

With each passing day, we were in awe at the beauty of how each piece fit together perfectly! Finally, the frame around the Arch was in place, the columns and capitals stood sturdy and tall, and the sliding carved shutters covered the grates. On Friday evening, Jon and Gary were finished with their work. God bless them!

Saturday morning the Sisters did some needed cleanup and polishing. We also informed Bishop Matano about the finished work which he had followed from its beginning in 2023. Later on, plans were made for the Bishop to come for the Blessing of the renovated Choir and Solemnly Enthrone the Blessed Sacrament in the Choir. This day of joy and grace occurred on the Second Sunday of Lent, March 1st. The Mass and Ceremony was deeply moving for everyone; it was especially so for us in Carmel, because it was the last Mass that our beloved Bishop Matano would celebrate with us as the Bishop of Rochester.

We wish to express our heartfelt gratitude first to Bishop Matano for his support and fatherly love for our Community, as well as to all of our Priests, friends and families who have followed us in this work for the “Glory of God”. Truly, from our hearts we say: “Lord, I love the beauty of Your House.” God bless you all and be assured of a remembrance in our prayers!

There are still some “final touches” to this renovation project. The Sanctuary wall adjoining the Choir will have some special embellishments put up at the end of May. Stay tuned!