CARROLLTON, Mich. — St. John Paul II Parish celebrated the rededication of its newly renovated church on June 20 as Bishop Robert Gruss presided at Mass, marking the completion of a project five years in the making.
The renovation reflects a vision that began after St. John Paul II Parish was established in 2014 through the merger of St. John the Baptist Parish, St. Josaphat Parish, both in Carrollton, and St. Matthew Parish in Zilwaukee. Initial planning for the church renovation began in 2021 but was paused while the parish addressed exterior repairs and maintenance. Planning resumed two years ago, and Graham Construction completed the five-month renovation in time for the rededication.
"Our hope was to create a church that reflects the beauty of our Catholic faith while honoring the history of the three parish communities that came together to form St. John Paul II," Father Bill Rutkowski said. "This renewed space invites people to encounter Christ more deeply in the Eucharist and reminds us that, as living stones, we continue to build up the Church together."
Designed by architect Dave Tagget, the project transformed the church while preserving its history and strengthening its role as a place of worship.
The renovation includes new devotional spaces honoring the patron saints of the three founding parishes, as well as the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. John Paul II. Additional improvements include a reconciliation room, updated sacristy, accessible restroom, kitchenette and serving area, new flooring, fresh paint, wood trim surrounding the stained-glass windows and new exterior doors.
Although minor construction work will continue in the coming weeks, the parish is once again gathering in a renewed sacred space that reflects both its shared history and its future. St. John Paul II Parish celebrates Mass at 4 p.m. Saturdays and 9 a.m. Sundays and welcomes all to worship.