St. Mary, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Cathedral

St. Mary, Cathedral of Our Lady of Mount Carmel is a modern octagonal structure in Gaylord, Michigan, with clean architectural lines and open interior spaces. Large windows flood the space with light, allowing views of the surroundings while revealing multiple shrines, a Vermont granite altar, and an impressive pipe organ.

Pope Paul VI established the Diocese of Gaylord in 1970 to serve the growing Catholic population in the region. Construction of the cathedral began in 1975 and finished in 1976, marking a rapid completion of this important new religious institution.

The cathedral was designed as a sanctuary for people with Polish, German, and French roots in the region. The four interior shrines honor the religious traditions that shaped this community's faith.

Visitors can enter the cathedral during regular mass services held throughout the week, or visit at other times to view the interior. It is wise to check current hours ahead of time, especially if you plan to visit outside of service times.

The centerpiece of the sanctuary is a German-built pipe organ with more than 2,000 tubes that continues to shape the spiritual experience of worshippers since its installation. The altar itself holds relics of several saints embedded within the Vermont granite, creating a tangible link to religious devotion spanning centuries.

Location: Michigan

Inception: 1976

Architectural style: modern architecture

Website: http://stmarycathedral.org

GPS coordinates: 45.03360,-84.68330

Latest update: December 12, 2025 16:43