Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul

The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul is a historic Catholic church situated at 214 E. 8th Street in Chattanooga, Tennessee. It is recognized on the National Register of Historic Places and stands as one of the oldest continuously operating parishes within the Diocese of Knoxville. The church was elevated to the status of a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI, with its inauguration by Bishop Richard Stika of the Diocese of Knoxville taking place on October 22, 2011.

History

The parish of Saints Peter and Paul was established in January 1852. Early in its history, the growing Catholic community worshipped in various locations. Construction commenced on a stone church in 1858, but was halted in 1860 due to the outbreak of the Civil War. In September 1863, the nearly completed structure was occupied by the Union Army and its materials were utilized for fortifications and culverts. Despite attempts by General William Rosecrans to protect the site, demolition continued under General George H. Thomas. Following the war, the congregation filed a claim with the U.S. government, and in 1889, a payment of $18,729 was awarded to compensate for the war-time damage.

Under the guidance of Irish priest Fr. William Walsh, ground was broken for the current church on February 1, 1888. The present building was dedicated on June 29, 1890. It was officially added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1979.

Artistic and Religious Features

The basilica is distinguished by its stained-glass windows, crafted by Louis Comfort Tiffany, which visually narrate significant moments in the lives of its patron saints, Saint Peter on the east side and Saint Paul on the west. The interior walls are further enhanced by 14 polychrome Stations of the Cross, depicting the Passion, death, and burial of Jesus Christ. The church also houses a Kilgen organ, installed in 1936.

Clergy and Canonization Cause

Monsignor George E. Schmidt, Jr., who had served as pastor since 1986, became the basilica's first rector. The parish has a history of contributing to the priesthood, with more than 30 sons entering religious service. In 2016, the Diocese of Knoxville initiated a cause for the canonization of Fr. Patrick Ryan, who was pastor from 1872 to 1878. He is remembered for his selfless service to the sick and needy during a yellow fever epidemic, succumbing to the illness on September 28, 1878, at the age of 33.