St. John’s Church Renovation

Exterior view of large 2-steepled red brick church with large stained glass windows throughout and shrubbery in foreground.

Side view of red brick catholic church with grand steeples and stained glass arched windows throughout.

Entrance view of chapel with granite holy water fountain in front surrounded with light wooden floors and wooden pews and pulpit to the background with wooden-paneled ceiling and exposed trusses in the background.

Wooden church pews with large stained-glass windows on each wall with wooden trussed ceiling overhead.

Back corner view of catholic church with light wooden floors and rows of pews, pulpit at the back with large 2-story stained glass windows to the right wall and wooden-planked ceiling and trusses overhead.

Square granite holy water fountain with statue of saint to back left and cabinetry to back right with church entryway through doors straight back.

Project Description

St. John’s Church Renovation – Preserving a Community Landmark

In Wahpeton, ND—our hometown—St. John’s Church stands as a historic and spiritual cornerstone for many in the community, including our own Comstock Construction employees. When the church required a major renovation to modernize and expand its space while preserving its historic integrity, we were honored to take on the challenge.

A Thoughtful and Transformative Renovation

This extensive renovation involved:

Complete removal of the interior plaster ceiling and 8,000 SF of roof structure.
Demolition of the existing balcony and 25% of the original 100-year-old masonry walls to make way for two 2,000 SF transept additions, enhancing seating capacity.
A new roof system featuring glue-laminated wood trusses, wood decking, and asphalt shingles.
Steeple roofing replaced with copper shingles, ensuring durability and a timeless aesthetic.
A redesigned altar area and the addition of a large walk-in baptismal font to enrich worship experiences.

A Project Close to Home

St. John’s Church has been a pillar of faith and tradition in our community for over a century. With many Comstock Construction employees among its congregation, this project was more than just a renovation—it was a deeply personal commitment to ensuring that this beloved landmark continues to serve generations to come.

Building for the Future While Honoring the Past

By blending historical preservation with modern enhancements, we helped St. John’s Church continue its mission while strengthening its role as a center of faith, fellowship, and community in Wahpeton. This renovation stands as a testament to our dedication to craftsmanship, heritage, and the places that matter most to us.

View other Church Remodels here.

PROJECT DETAILS

Categories:	Religious
Client:	St. John’s Church
Location:	Wahpeton, ND
Surface Area:	12,000 SF
Completed:	2002
Architect:	Rafferty, Rafferty, Tollefson