Divinely Inspired: Discussing the William F. Cody Design of St. Theresa Catholic Church with Catherine Cody and Morris Skenderian A.I.A.

St. Theresa Catholic Church has long been heralded as a desert gem and a testament to the breadth and depth of William F. Cody's talents. Built on land that was a former World War II airfield, the church was completed in 1968 and dedicated on Thanksgiving day. As a devout Catholic and the parish of his family, this award-winning project was very personal for this renowned architect. It is said, "he designed everything except for the light bulbs and the screws", which was true! He created a master plan for the complex in 1963, which included the church, convent, school, and rectory. The convent, of which Bob and Dolores Hope were the major donors, was completed in 1965. After a few design options were considered, the design plan for the church was chosen, and work began. Throughout the project, he guided the collaboration with artists and craftspeople who could realize his total design plan. Divinely inspired, Cody was highly encouraged by the Second Vatican Council of 1962–65 with its implications for buildings, art, and furnishings.

Interpreting their call for their parishioners to be “fully conscious and active participants” to mean that the congregation should be as close to the altar as possible, strongly influenced his design. Their support for Modern art in the Church was also something Cody fully embraced. Cody’s design created a Modern vision for the parishioners of St. Theresa Church, and it remains a prized masterpiece of Cody’s legacy.

Catherine Cody, daughter of William F. Cody and architect Morris Skenderian, AIA, who had just joined Cody’s firm at the time the St. Theresa project began, will share stories, photos, drawings, and talk about the artisans and craftspeople involved in making Cody’s design a reality. Following the presentation, Catherine and Morris will each take a group of attendees to tour the Church’s main sanctuary and discuss features and details. A reception will feature the St. Theresa student models of Cody’s iconic projects after the tour.

This event is presented by the St. Theresa 135 Ministry, which was formed by a group of concerned parishioners focused on the Preservation and Restoration of the parish's buildings and grounds. All proceeds will be used to ensure the longevity and integrity of the William F. Cody-designed church.

https://www.sttheresaps.com/st-theresa-135-ministry

$45 General Admission

$95 General Admission with book

Things To KnowAges 13 and older
Wheelchair accessible
No pets, service animals permitted
Personal/non-commercial photography permitted
No outside food or drinks
Public parking available
Restrooms are available
Guided interior tour
Large purses, bags, and backpacks discouraged
No smoking or e-cigarettes

Important InformationSelf-parking is available in the adjacent church West parking lot (closest to the Daily Mass Chapel).
Following the presentation the group will be divided into two for a guided tour of the church by the presenters followed by a reception where the student model projects will be on display.
The organizer of this event is St. Theresa Catholic Church, 135 Ministry.

Check-in Location St. Theresa Catholic Church
2800 Ramon Rd
Palm Springs, CA 92264View Map

Photo Credits: Images are courtesy of the William F. Cody Papers and Archives, Robert E. Kennedy library, California Polytechnic State University, San Luis Obispo; St. Theresa 135 Ministry and John Dzien {"locationAddressVisibility":"visible"}