Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist
Usa·Stamford·Diocese of Bridgeport
The Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist is a Catholic parish church and minor basilica located in Stamford, Connecticut. Founded in the 1850s, the current church was built in 1868 and expanded to accommodate a growing, multi-lingual congregation, making it a significant spiritual center for diverse communities in the region. It is recognized for its historical importance, sanctuary size, and artwork, having been elevated to the dignity of a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI in 2009.
Key Facts
- ›The original church of Saint John the Evangelist was founded in 1849 and dedicated in 1851.
- ›The current church, designed by architect James Murphy, was built in 1868 to accommodate a larger congregation.
- ›The church was consecrated on May 30, 1886, by Bishop Lawrence Stephen Mcmahon.
- ›It has served a diverse congregation, including descendants of the original Irish immigrants and later Italian, Polish, Slovak, Hispanic, and Haitian communities.
- ›Pope Benedict XVI elevated Saint John's Parish to the status of Minor Basilica on July 16, 2009.
- ›The basilica has a seating capacity of 1,600 and exterior dimensions of 100 by 180 feet.
Gothic
Altar Crucifix From the Original 1851 Church
Sisters of Mercy
James Murphy, John Ennis
About Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist
The Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist is a historic Catholic parish church and minor basilica situated in Stamford, Connecticut. Its origins trace back to 1849 when the local Catholic community established the first church on Meadow Street. The present stone structure, significantly larger and built to accommodate a growing congregation, was constructed starting in 1868 and consecrated on May 30, 1886. The church is recognized as "The Mother Church of Stamford" and has been a spiritual anchor for a diverse and multi-lingual populace. In recognition of its historical significance, architectural merit, and size, Pope Benedict XVI elevated the parish to the dignity and title of Minor Basilica on July 16, 2009.
History and Development
The initial wooden church, built in the 1850s, was a modest structure. By 1854, it became an independent mission. The need for a larger edifice led to the construction of the current church, designed by architect James Murphy, a prolific builder of Catholic churches in New England. The interior design was overseen by John Ennis, a Dublin theater designer.
Over the decades, the parish has evolved to serve an increasingly diverse community. Founded by impoverished Irish Catholic immigrants, it later established apostolates for Italian, Polish, Slovak, Hispanic, and Haitian Catholics. This commitment to inclusivity continues today, with services and confessions offered in multiple languages.
The basilica has also played a role in urban development. In support of city initiatives, Saint John's Parish provided seed money and land, leading the city to name affordable housing apartments, Saint John's Towers, in its honor. The Bishop of Bridgeport and the Pastor of Saint John's Church hold ex-officio positions on the board overseeing the housing complex.
Architectural and Artistic Features
The current church building, completed in 1886, features a Gothic High Altar crafted from white Carrera marble and golden Mexican onyx. The altar crucifix displayed above the tabernacle is a relic from the original 1851 church, symbolizing the continuity of faith. The sanctuary is further adorned by three stained-glass windows, the oldest in the church, which depict the Incarnation, Crucifixion, and Resurrection. These windows, dating to 1886, are of Dutch origin.
The basilica has a substantial seating capacity of 1,600 and impressive exterior dimensions, measuring 100 by 180 feet. The church continues to be an active parish, offering daily Mass, confessions, and Sunday services in Latin, English, and French & Creole.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
When was the Basilica of Saint John the Evangelist founded?
The Catholic community in Stamford purchased land for the original church of Saint John the Evangelist in 1849. The original, smaller church was dedicated in 1851.
When was the current church building constructed?
To meet the needs of a growing Catholic population, a larger church was built in 1868. This stone church was completed and consecrated in 1886.
What makes Saint John the Evangelist a minor basilica?
Pope Benedict XVI raised Saint John's Parish to the dignity and title of Minor Basilica in 2009. This designation was based on its sanctuary size, historical importance, art, and recognition within the Diocese.
What is the architectural style of the basilica?
The current church was designed by James Murphy, with the interior designed by Dublin theater designer John Ennis. While not explicitly stated as a single style, the original church had rudimentary gothic decorations, and the high altar is described as Gothic.
What notable features are found in the sanctuary?
The sanctuary features a Gothic High Altar made of white Carrera marble and golden Mexican onyx, dating to the church's opening in 1886. The altar crucifix above the tabernacle is from the original 1851 church, and three Dutch stained-glass windows from 1886 depict key Christian events.
What is the capacity of the basilica?
The church has a seating capacity of 1,600 people.
What is the significance of Saint John's Parish in Stamford's development?
Saint John's Parish has supported the city's urban development program through donations of seed money and land. In recognition of this support, the city named three affordable housing apartments, Saint John's Towers, after the parish.
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