For the last 12 years I have been able to create an annual short documentary for the Cathedral of the Madeleine in Salt Lake City, Utah. The films are displayed at the Cathedral's "Bishop's Dinner," a fundraising effort for the preservation of the Cathedral.

Msgr. M. Francis Mannion with the Cathedral bells.

In this year's video, the Cathedral honored Msgr. M. Francis Mannion who served as rector from 1984-2000. It was under his leadership that the Cathedral of the Madeleine underwent a major restoration project. When Mannion arrived at the Cathedral, the sandstone structure was 80 years old and in need of seismic upgrades. In addition, the artwork, stained glass windows and murals on the interior of the cathedral were in need of immediate care.

After the restoration was completed, Msgr. Mannion believed that the Cathedral could not become a museum of great art. And so it was also under his leadership that the Cathedral instituted a series of new programs that would provide education, arts and charitable assistance to the surrounding community. These included The Madeleine Choir School, Madeleine Arts Festival, Eccles Organ Festival and the Good Samaritan Program.

It was a great experience interviewing Msgr. Mannion and those who knew him and speak so highly of his work at the Cathedral. Included here is this year's Bishop's Dinner video and several photographs of the Cathedral during the time of the restoration.

Images courtesy of the Diocese of Salt Lake City Archives.