09/06/2026
What do you get when you combine the efforts of Evan LeGrande Wilson and Lenehan Studios , on a sanctuary improvement project at St. Dominic Church D.C. that was conceived by our friend and yours, Father George Schommer, funded by his anonymous donor/s, masterfully designed by James and Jacob McCrery Architects , coordinated beautifully by David and Larry at Gardiner Hall Associates? Then you add much needed plaster revision by C.J. Coakley Co., Inc. , a lot of gold from Giusto Manetti Battiloro Spa , large amounts of brushes and paints handled carefully by Claire Ouimet , Abbie Rugg , Kelly Roman , Kenzie Butler, cAp-christopher allen phillips , Rositapants , Chelsea , Dee and myself.???
You get the successful completion of phase one. On time and under budget. Others have been involved that I have not mentioned and still more will play a role as the project continues.
Last week the scaffolding came down. These photos, taken by Dee Lenehan and Kelly Hanlon are among the first to show the newly finished ceiling and upper walls. As amazing as the photos are, this space is better appreciated in person. But that’s it for now, they’ll have to do because we have already turned our focus to the next phase.
Phase two will consist of more stunning decorative paint elements that will feature the apostles, painted in tasteful neo-gothic settings on the lower tier, and angelic seraphim surrounding the sanctuary from their elevated position in the middle tier.
If you find yourself traveling to Washington DC, stop into St. Dominic Catholic Church and have a look around. Say a prayer, light a candle, meditate, resolve to do better, be thankful, set aside your worries for a moment, or just be present. This worshipful space will warm your heart, which is exactly what it is designed to do. I’m proud to be part of its transformation.
E
