YOUNGSTOWN, Ohio (WKBN) — The Diocese of Youngstown shared its plan Wednesday to transform the campus of the old Saints Cyril and Methodius Church into the All Saints Archival Center.
Since its records are currently being housed in multiple locations, including Kent State University libraries and basements of diocesan buildings, Bishop David Bonnar knew the project needed to be a priority.
“We’re bringing our past with us into the future,” said Bishop Bonnar. “This is a huge undertaking and the beauty of it is right now is we are really embracing it.”
“The development of the archival center allows us to reflect not only on our rich history but remind each and every one of us that we’re at the heart and center of the church,” said Monsignor John Zuraw, Vicar General.
The project includes building a two-story, 4,900 square foot facility connected to the former church building. The new building will include a climate-controlled vault for records as well as office and work spaces. The church itself will become a place for exhibits such as artifacts from closed churches and public programming.
“This new facility is so exciting because it will enable us to collect, preserve and make accessible the records of the Diocese of Youngstown, its people, parish churches, institutions and organizations,” said Chancellor and Diocesan archivist Joan Lawson.
The site on East Wood Street was chosen because of its proximity to the seat of the Bishop, campus size, location within Youngstown’s educational, museum, and library district, plus the historic church structure.
“It is eminently worthy of preservation from the inside with its magnificent windows, its dome,” Lawson said.
The estimated cost of the project is around $2.7 million.
“This campus is for our entire diocese and beyond and it’s my hope and prayer that it will be a place that will be visited often,” said Bonnar.
