By Christian Coffman

NATCHEZ — When the old pinnacles on top of St. Mary Basilica came down in 1998, Walter Maier got the idea to make the planks into crosses for his fellow parishioners.

The pinnacles were damaged in the February 1998 straight-line winds that damaged many buildings in downtown Natchez. After the storm the pinnacles were taken down and the wood stored away until Maier decided to give the wood new life.

“I started making (the crosses) in 2007 because people started asking around for little crosses for communion,” Maier said.

Motioning to his crosses, Maier said he does not know how many he has made over the years, although he estimates hundreds.

Maier said he is almost out of the old wood and is not sure what his next project will be, but is sure something will come along.

Locals primarily buy the crosses as gifts. Parishioners taking their first communion, graduating seniors, marriages and holidays are common reasons for worshipers to purchase one of Maier’s crosses.

“To have a part of the original church is a unique gift,” Maier said. “People love them, are glad to have them. It’s a souvenir from the church.”

The crosses are available at the St. Mary Basilica Family Center in different sizes for $30, $25 and $20.

Maier said he would be selling the crosses until they are gone or until the family center shuts down for the summer.

Maier began crafting wooden bowls and urns since 1989, and said he enjoys the challenge of working with wood.

“It’s nature, and I enjoy building something,” Maier said. “With wood, you don’t know what it’s going to look like until you’re through with it. It’s enjoyable to see what nature turns out for you.”

A lifelong parishioner, Maier has been a member of the church for 80 years.

The woodworker has helped restore and maintain the church for the last 60 years, ever since he graduated high school.

“My daddy and my brothers built houses so I’ve been working with wood all my life,” Maier said. “I enjoy it, I feel like it’s my obligation to keep the church up. It’s got to be done. If you belong to a church you’re obligated to do your part.”

Anyone interested in buying one of Maier’s crosses can go to the church office during the day or call Maier directly at 601-597-0800.