04/27/2026
Never in my life would I have imagined that I would one day have the privilege of working with a church to create custom woodworking pieces of such meaning and importance. Since the summer of 2025, I have had the honor of collaborating with one of the most beautiful churches I have ever seen, the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. Our shared goal was to restore a historic element that once existed in the original church: the Confessional Booth.
Father Tony Marques entrusted me with the responsibility of creating not just one, but two Confessional Booths for the Cathedral, designed from photographs and sketches of the originals. What followed was a long and thoughtful design process that stretched over many weeks. From the earliest concepts to the final renderings, every detail was carefully considered.
Father Marques was truly a pleasure to work with throughout this process. Together we spent weeks reviewing full-scale floor layouts and seating configurations, followed by many more weeks discussing finishes, wood species, door placement, glass selections, trim details, and countless other elements. The collaboration was both meticulous and deeply rewarding.
After receiving final approval, I began work on the project that winter. Never before has a project been more meaningful to me, nor more challenging. It pushed every skill I possess and required me to learn many more along the way. I have certainly never built anything like this before, and I doubt I ever will again. This was truly a once-in-a-lifetime experience, and I will remain forever grateful and humbled by the opportunity to contribute to such a sacred space.
I would also like to take a moment to apologize to those who were affected by the intensity of this build. My workshop remained in a constant state of chaos and clutter for months. It made it difficult for others to complete their own projects, and for that I am sincerely sorry. I also want to apologize to those affected by my limited communication, cancelled classes, and delayed emails during this time. For much of the project I was unable to teach, and unfortunately had to reschedule several students.
Most importantly, I would like to thank the incredible people who helped make this project possible.
Steve W., a wonderful friend and generous person, was always ready to help whenever I needed an extra set of hands. Whether moving doors, shifting walls, or lifting heavy components, his help was invaluable.
Jacob H., a new friend who never hesitated to step away from his own work to lend a hand. Many times he stopped mid-glue-up just to help with lifting, planing, or whatever else the moment required.
Jeff S., whose kindness and thoughtfulness showed through in the countless times he helped clean and organize the shop after long days of sawdust and chaos.
Professor James Haug, my former college professor and long-time mentor, who has continued to guide and support me since graduation. Toward the end of this project he spent several days each week helping stain the many components of this massive build. Without his help, I truly do not believe this project would have been completed on time.
My father, who was always ready to help wherever needed. Whether running to the store for supplies, assisting with staining, bringing me lunch, or simply helping calm my frustrations during difficult moments, his support meant more than I can express.
Mary H., who worked tirelessly near the end of the project helping with staining, finishing, cleanup, and making sure I was eating something during the long days and even longer nights. Many evenings she stayed into the early morning hours helping push this project toward completion.
John D., the caretaker of the Cathedral, who was an enormous help during installation. From lifting and moving pieces to assisting with cleanup, John stayed late into the night to ensure the installation was completed successfully.
John S., who over the past several months has become a close friend. His generosity with his time and energy made a tremendous difference in this project. He assisted with staining, sanding, finishing, brainstorming design solutions, and countless other tasks. During the installation week, John worked beside me at the Cathedral until four in the morning on multiple nights. From cutting trim, refining details, helping with decorative work, and ensuring everything came together properly. I truly could not have finished this project without him.
I am certain there are others who offered encouragement, patience, and support along the way, and I am deeply grateful to all of you.
As much as I like to believe I can accomplish things on my own, this project proved that some things simply cannot be done alone.
Thank you all for your help, your patience, and your belief in this work.
This project has been one of the greatest honors of my life.
