ASHEVILLE, N.C. — Rain fell outside St. Lawrence Basilica on Saturday, but for the first time in years water was no longer a threat to the historic church as Asheville celebrated a reopening after a $7.7 million restoration to stop leaks and repair extensive damage.
Bishop Michael Martin joined parishioners, donors and community members Oct. 10 to celebrate the completion of the first phase of a massive renovation project to preserve the 117-year-old Asheville landmark. The Restoration and Reopening celebration came nearly a year after the renovation project officially launched last October.
Although Masses and sacraments continued throughout construction, the basilica had been closed to visitors on weekdays. Now, its doors will be open daily once again. Funded by parishioners and donors from across the country, the first phase focused on stopping water intrusion and stabilizing the historic structure.
Work included replacing the copper-clad roof on the basilica iconic elliptical dome, installing new storm drains, gutters and cornices, stabilizing masonry over one of the side chapels, restoring the dome oculus skylight, and repairing damage from Hurricane Helene. The work marks the first phase of a multi-year restoration effort that could ultimately exceed $30 million.
Photo coverage from the Oct. 10, 2026 celebration showed Bishop Michael T. Martin of the Diocese of Charlotte leading a procession and cutting a ceremonial ribbon marking completion of Phase I restoration work. Captions also placed the Basilica of St. Lawrence at the corner of Page Avenue and Flint Street in downtown Asheville and noted a sign detailing Phase I rehabilitation work, including roof replacement and stabilization of the cornice, parapets and Marian Chapel.
Monsignor Roger Arnsparger, the basilica pastor and rector, thanked everyone who contributed to the renovation effort. Officials frame Phase I as stopping water damage so the National Register landmark can keep welcoming worshippers and visitors in Asheville, N.C., while later phases continue the longer restoration.
