In the first half of the 18th century Abbot Mihály Frigyes Althan decided to build a larger church in the chapel's place.

In the second half of the century ownership disputes arose, both the Archdiocese of Eger and the Diocese of Munkács laid claims to it.

Empress Maria Theresa settled the dispute by giving the responsibility of maintaining the church to the Diósgyőr estate.

Emperor Franz Joseph visited the city in 1857, and seeing the still unfinished church he offered to pay the expenses of constructing one of the towers.

The Archbishop of Eger also offered a large sum of money, and several members of the parish donated as well.