It Was a Masonic Temple; Now the Church Is “Baptizing” It and Converting It into a Catholic Space, Thanks to Saint Joseph

(ZENIT News / Steubenville, 08.23.2026).- The College of St. Joseph the Worker is transforming the historic Masonic temple in Steubenville, Ohio, into an «athenaeum» — a term the Church uses to describe the best of classical culture –, creating a space where the community can gather to cultivate both spirit and intellect.

The building served as the local Masonic lodge for nearly a century; in November 2026, it will be handed over to the Catholic educational institution, which will open its doors to the entire Steubenville community. The auditorium, with a seating capacity of 500, will host musical concerts and lectures.

 

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College President Jacob Imam explained the need to bless and consecrate the space, returning it to the city as a center for gathering and culture, in a city that needs to come together and heal. Plans also include performing an exorcism on the building, given its history of use for gatherings contrary to God.

In November 2026, the Steubenville Masons will hold their final event at the temple, which houses a shrine, a restaurant, and an auditorium. Jacob Imam initiated a period of prayer seeking the intercession of Saint Joseph, the patron saint of workers, to secure the purchase of the building. A few weeks later, he received a call from the owners, who were interested in selling the structure. The agreement provides for the purchase of the property in January 2027, and approximately one million dollars has already been raised for its acquisition and renovation.

The project entails the construction of a Catholic shrine to house a replica of the Shroud of Turin. The campaign’s motto is to revitalize the city and «Claim the Temple for Christ.»