There has been some discussion about the two different presentations of the stenciling at the side altars. There are those who favor the re-creation of the original with the brighter colors at Mary’s altar. Others like the softer, muted colors of the revealed stenciling at St. Joseph’s altar. In a way, both camps win. The stenciling at the Altar of St. Joseph shows the original paint as revealed when the paint over the years was scraped away. There still is some touch up work to be done, mainly a second coat of the blue and cream background colors, and an outlining and sealing of the original. This side shows the original stenciling uncovered, the other sideshows the stenciling reproduced, as it would have appeared when first created. With the discovery of the painted green drapes, a bit of artistic license was assumed by placing a small amount of green in the turrets to help draw the eye around into the Sanctuary. Ms. Donell, the artist of the restoration, has the experience and the credentials to help us make decisions which will not in any way harm the historic character of the church.

Through the generous gift of new parishioners who have fallen in love with the beauty and historic character of St. Mary’s, the Main Altar will be the next phase of the restoration process and will begin as soon as Ms. Donell is available. This will include repainting the altar, applying patina to match the side altars, applying 22K gold leaf to appropriate areas, applying a multicolored patina to the Last Supper, marbleizing the columns to match the side altars, and seal all artwork. The process will take approximately five to six weeks

Eventually, the painted green curtains surrounding the Sanctuary area will need to be treated for mold which is present and touched up in several places. A painted design along the top of the curtains will have to be recreated as well as the design over the windows. There is discussion about replacing the stars among the angels in the vault over the Sanctuary. All of this, of course, depends on funding.

As the work on the interior of the church continues, research is underway to gather the documentation necessary to obtain the designation as a ‘Painted Church of Texas’. Working with the Texas Historical Commission, great care is being taken to ensure that the restoration done and planned is according to the guidelines of the Commission. When completed [God willing in our lifetime], St. Mary will be a jewel in the crown of the other painted churches of Texas.

If you are interested in funding a phase of the restoration, please contact Fr. Ed.