Dome Project

Preserving Our Legacy and Building a Bright Future
at Saint Clement!

In every chapter of our rich Catholic history, our community members have stood together to ensure that Saint Clement not only remains active but thrives. Our legacy is not just a testament to our past; it is an opportunity to forge a brilliant future for those who will follow in our footsteps. 

Saint Clement stands as one of the most exquisite worship spaces in the city and beyond. The church was constructed with such excellence that for the first time in its 100-year history, the dome's structure requires reinforcement to ensure it stands strong for another century, uniting heaven and earth in worship before God. 

While dome renovations were discussed during the tenure of former pastors, Fr. Hickey and Fr. Simpson, this project has been meticulously studied by our own and external experts, as well as engineers and architects from the Archdiocese of Chicago over the last three years. Through a thoughtful process of discernment, together with the Archdiocese officials, we are working on the repairs and preservation of the dome with Thornton Tomasetti and Berglund Construction, both renowned experts in their field. 

WHAT WORK IS BEING DONE?

A detailed analysis of the dome’s condition was conducted, and it was concluded that many areas need repairs, including the dome’s roofing, gutter, flashings, and limestone masonry. Specifically there is extensive corrosion at the base of all sixteen steel trusses that need to be repaired.

HOW DOES THE DOME PROJECT AFFECT ME?

Beginning April 2nd, Berglund Construction began the intricate process of erecting the scaffolding to safely and efficiently work on the project. Throughout the duration of the project (April-October 2024), you can expect to see scaffolding and construction equipment along the exterior of the west side of the Church and along Orchard Street.

We are not anticipating any impact to the interior of the dome nor disruption with our scheduled Masses and liturgies. The church will be open!

Those attending Chapel Mass: please note that the Orchard Street entrance will be closed for the first 3 weeks of the project while Berglund Construction is completing the scaffolding.

Those attending 8:30am Daily Mass: please note that 8:30 a.m. Daily Mass will take place in the Chapel for the duration of the project.

I STILL HAVE QUESTIONS

We encourage you to review our Frequently Asked Questions document.

Parishioners will continue to receive email updates and notices in the weekly e-newsletter “The Plaza” regarding the project.

If you have additional questions on the project, you may contact Katie Bak, our Sr. Director of Admin & Facilities.

If you have questions on the upcoming Legacy.Community.Future campaign, please contact Delaney Paul, our Director of Stewardship & Development.