While it is likely to be some time yet before it is completed, the restoration work of the side altars has begun to reveal their original decorative treatment.
The careful restoration work involved in the removal of successive layers of paint applied over the years to both Our Lady’s altar and the one dedicated to Saint Joseph currently undertaken by Atelier Plantagenêt means that the original stenciling is once again visible. Hidden until now, the stencil motifs being revealed are very similar to those found on the high altar and clearly demonstrate that while the side altars may differ somewhat from the principal one, all three were designed as complimentary elements of the same commission and meant to be seen in a common setting.
Like the high altar, the side altars were designed and built in 1898 by the same artists; church architect and decorator, Canon Georges Bouillon (1841-1932) together with one of his long-time collaborators, Flavien Rochon (1824-1902) and all three delivered to the monastery of the Sisters Adorers of the Precious Blood then located in New Edinburg.
The expert attention required to restore the side altars has been budgeted at $24, 800 (plus applicable taxes). To date $ 1, 825.00 has been contributed to the cost of the restoration project.
Thank you for your generosity.