Currently:
Tthe top of the baptismal font has been restored in full color and stars have been added to the ceiling of the tabernacle to match the ceiling of the sanctuary.

The two octagon shaped ceiling lights in the rear of the church, under the choir loft, will receive new fixture panels. The two lights over the sanctuary doors will also receive new panels. These will provide additional lighting, plus match the other lighting in the body of the church.

Larry Schank has contracted Al Dilger for the following project:
Two sections of our old communion rail, which has been stored in the church basement, since the 1970's, are being restored and painted to match the three altars. These sections will be placed on the steps in front of the altars of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph. Hand rails will be installed on the steps leading to the altar of sacrifice and the main altar area. These will be attached to the two front columns close to the newly installed communion rails.

Joe Helming, left, and his brother, Bernie, of Helming Brothers Inc., had quite a view from atop the steeple of St. Michael Catholic Church in Cannelton. The cross was removed and will be covered in gold leaf at the Helmings' Jasper workshop. Photo by Vince Luecke, Perry County News

Kneeling pads will be provided in front of the two communion rails for personal adoration. These communion rails will be removable for special occasions and decoration, such as the Christmas nativity scene and the Easter Garden, etc.

David Pyle, a member of the St. Michael Church parish council, has agreed to head the restoration of the Sacristy. Plans are in the final stages for this project. These plans include:
lowering the ceiling and installing new recessed ceiling fixtures, walls repaired and painted, new cabinetry for the PA system, plumbing fixtures, cabinetry and storage area, and flooring.

In addition, possibly a work area for our sacristan and money counters will be included in this project. A “Big Thank You” to Dave for chairing this project. Anyone entering the sacristy area, would realize this project is long overdue.

Local painter, Steve Sabelhaus, has been contracted by the restoration committee to repair the steeple of the church. Work will begin in the spring, to be completed by April 19, 2009, weather permitting.

The Restoration Committee is asking volunteers to help with any of our upcoming projects.

Additional phases needed to complete our restoration of St. Michael Catholic Church:

• new protective outer windows for the stained glass windows
• new heating system with air conditioning
• exterior tuck-pointing
• combined bathroom/cry room
• updating of pipe organ

Other major needs/decisions not directly connected to restoration of church:

• paving of parking lot and cemetery roadways
• sale of school

Contributions are still coming in from CHS alumni, businesses, memorials and other donors. We truly appreciate their generosity and God Bless them. All of these contributions are helping to restore and preserve a beautiful landmark church who is 150 years old this year!

There is a “Restoration Box” in the rear of church if anyone would like to make a donation toward the restoration of St. Michael Church. They may also be mailed to:

St. Michael Church Restoration