The Parish Council represents you—our parishioners. The Council plays a key role in working with the pastor to ensure that The Basilica of Saint Mary community continues to live out our mission and vision.
Every registered adult parishioner is entitled to one vote.
Election open from May 26 – June 5, 2023. Ballots must be cast by Monday, June 5, 5:00pm.
We are pleased to announce our candidates, who are well qualified and exhibit the spirit of stewardship, volunteerism, and leadership that make The Basilica of Saint Mary such a special place.
Each candidate is running unopposed in their respective departments.
Christian Life
Embodies the many ways we serve one another and work for justice. Volunteer opportunities include caring, charity, and justice ministries. Together, we work to serve, accompany, and defend one another.
Carole Burton, Incumbent, Parish Member since 2016
I am enjoying being part of Christian Life. I became a member of the Basilica in 2016. I began as a volunteer mentor and team leader with the Hennepin Connections Program. From that experience, I was invited to help start Basilica’s Equity Diversity and Inclusion Leadership Team. Along the way, I participated in the Basilica Leadership Series. My experience as a Lay Leader began at age 16 when I became a charter Parish Pastoral Council member at Holy Angels Cathedral in Gary, IN. My understanding of Lay Leadership evolved at Mary Mother in Burnsville, MN, where I served nine years on the Parish Pastoral Council. I also co-founded the Greeter ministry and was appointed to serve on the building renovation capital campaign project.
I hold a Bachelor’s in Human Resources Management from Winona State University and a Master’s in Leadership Studies from Augsburg University. My past working roles include National Sales and Corporate Purchasing. In 2019, I started a firm helping people develop their listening, leading, and wellness skills.
I appreciate the opportunity to serve on the Parish Council. The Basilica’s mission-critical work is essential as the parish and community continue to navigate our vision and work ahead.
Liturgy & Sacred Arts
Dedicated to the best celebration of our faith through quality liturgy that reflects both the tradition of the Catholic Church and the diversity of our community. We are committed to offering a rich variety of sacred art events and exhibits as a compelling way to communicate our faith and values. Our goal is to provide a variety of opportunities for the development of each individual’s liturgical and devotional life.
Mattie Melin, Parish Member since 2017
My parents were married in the Basilica and I was baptized there in 1994. I grew up in the Basilica celebrating all the sacraments in the space. I have been very active in the music ministry starting in 2001 in the children’s choir. Now I am in the Cathedral Choir, a cantor, and a member of the Basilica Schola Cantorum.
The Basilica has been my home for 28 years and I hope to be able to serve the parish in anyway possible, including the opportunity to serve on Parish Council. I earned my Bachelor’s degree from St. Olaf College and am now working as a high school nurse in the Robbinsdale Area School district.