Bernalillo Santuario de San Lorenzo Finalist, Community Urged to Vote
On November 27, 2025, Santuario de San Lorenzo in Bernalillo was named one of six national finalists in a preservation contest, an announcement that could unlock funding and grant opportunities for its urgent repairs. Local caretakers and parishioners are asking New Mexicans to vote online before December 5, a civic appeal that could shape the shrine's ability to preserve a valued historic landmark.
Santuario de San Lorenzo, a historic adobe shrine in Bernalillo, was named a national finalist on November 27, 2025 in a contest promoted by Partners for Sacred Places. The church was selected from more than 200 entries nationwide and is one of six finalists in its category, a distinction that brings national recognition and may make the parish eligible to apply for preservation grants.
Parishioners and long time caretakers described visible deterioration at the shrine, citing cracks in walls and moisture stains that stem from a failing roof. Caretakers including Santiago Montoya, who has maintained the grounds for more than 20 years, say the work required is extensive and must respect the building's historic adobe architecture. Local leaders estimate more than one million dollars will be needed for sensitive, historically appropriate repairs.
Photographs used in the contest entry were contributed by LeRoy Sanchez, a former White House photographer and New Mexico native. The submission helped the Santuario gain attention at the national level, and church members are now asking New Mexicans to cast online votes in support of Bernalillo's finalist. Voting closes December 5, and winners will be announced December 15.
For residents of Sandoval County the outcome has practical and symbolic significance. A win would not only raise the profile of the Santuario de San Lorenzo but could strengthen the parish's position when applying for federal, state, or private restoration grants. The cost and complexity of restoring historic adobe structures mean that national recognition and subsequent grant eligibility could ease the financial burden on a small parish and help preserve a site that contributes to local cultural identity and heritage tourism.
The contest has also become a focal point for civic engagement, mobilizing volunteers and parish members to seek votes across the state. If successful, the project would require oversight to ensure repairs meet historic preservation standards, and would spotlight the challenges Sandoval County faces in maintaining older religious and cultural properties with limited local funding.
