While the United States has a rich Catholic history dating back to the 17th century, the 19th century is when the Church left its biggest mark on the country culturally and architecturally.
The magnificent Catholic churches dotting the United States are a testament to the faith and fortitude of the immigrant populations that settled on these shores in the 19th century.
Immigrants from Ireland, Germany, Italy and Eastern Europe, along with French Canada, increased the number of Catholics from 35,000 in 1790 to 12 million by the end of the 19th century. Poor immigrants and prominent citizens alike pledged money to fund these great monuments of faith, which continue to serve all Catholics, including new immigrants who worship there today.
Here are just a few. Which churches would you add to this list?
- St. Mary of the Angels, Chicago, Illinois. Founded in 1899.
2. Cathedral Basilica of Saint Louis, St. Louis, Missouri. Founded in 1914.
3. Cathedral of Saint Paul, St. Paul, Minnesota. Founded in 1907.
4. Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, New York, New York. Dedicated in 1910.
5. The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Newark, NJ. Constructed from 1899-1954.
And today we celebrate...