Our Lady of the Mountains Church Nears Completion of Major Renovation in Whistler

In the heart of Whistler, British Columbia, Our Lady of the Mountains Church is on the brink of unveiling its extensively renovated sanctuary, a project that has been five years in the making. This transformation aims to provide a dedicated sacred space that mirrors the town's alpine charm and meets the spiritual needs of both residents and the multitude of visitors.

As the sole Catholic church in this renowned resort town, Our Lady of the Mountains has long served as a spiritual haven for locals and tourists alike. With Whistler attracting approximately 3 million visitors annually, the church often finds itself at the center of the community's religious life.

The ambitious renovation project, initiated in early 2020, was driven by a vision to transform the existing multipurpose hall into a fully functional sacred space. The new design includes a sanctuary, a 15-foot choir loft accommodating 25 members, and an interior adorned with 23 sacred elements such as an altar, crucifix, statues, and a communion rail. Future plans also envision the addition of stained-glass windows and a pipe organ.

A standout feature of the renovation is the 40-foot timber-frame ceilings, reflecting Whistler's distinct outdoor ethos and reminiscent of a traditional wooden ski chalet. This architectural choice pays homage to the town's rich winter sports culture.

The journey to this point has not been without challenges. Unexpected soil conditions, design refinements, and inflation increased the original budget from $5.5 million to $6.7 million. However, the community's resilience shone through, with significant contributions from parishioners and external donors. Notably, philanthropist Andy Szocs, a longtime parishioner, played a pivotal role in fundraising efforts, leveraging his extensive network and experience.

The expanded church will more than triple its current capacity, increasing seating from 160 to 500. This enhancement is particularly significant during peak seasons like Christmas and Easter, when the congregation swells with visitors.

Beyond serving as a place of worship, the renovated church is envisioned as a beacon for evangelization. Plans are underway to host Catholic conferences and retreats, drawing inspiration from similar initiatives to attract Catholics to Whistler's new spiritual hub.

The grand opening is slated for October, marking a new chapter for Our Lady of the Mountains and the broader Whistler community. This milestone stands as a testament to the unwavering faith and dedication of all involved in bringing this vision to fruition.