In 2005, an arsonist set the St. Raphael Cathedral afire and the blaze spread from the choir loft throughout the church. The church was torn down because of the extensive damages.  Until funds for the new Cathedral are secured and construction begins, the Bishop of the Diocese of Madison utilizes larger parish sites for various diocesan events.  A new Cathedral will be designed to accommodate the large congregations at diocesan celebrations. 

A gift to the Pope Saint John Paul II Cathedral Fund helps provide financing for the construction, improvement, and maintenance of the future Cathedral for the Diocese of Madison. The fund is fully expendable.