St Gerard Majella Basilica
Brazil·Curvelo
The Basilica of St. Gerard Majella, also known as the Basilica of Curvelo, is a Catholic church located in Curvelo, Minas Gerais, Brazil. Constructed by Dutch Redemptorist missionaries, it holds the unique distinction of being the only basilica worldwide dedicated to St. Gerard Majella, a Redemptorist saint canonized in 1904. The basilica was honored with its status by Pope Paul VI in 1966.
Key Facts
- ›Built in 1906 by Dutch Redemptorist missionaries.
- ›The only basilica in the world dedicated to St. Gerard Majella.
- ›Construction began on March 22, 1912, and concluded in 1919.
- ›Received basilica status by Pope Paul VI on April 30, 1966.
- ›Located in Curvelo, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil.
Gerard Majella
Redemptorists
About St Gerard Majella Basilica
Basilica of St. Gerard Majella
The Basilica of St. Gerard Majella, also known by its Portuguese name Basílica de São Geraldo Magela or simply as the Basilica of Curvelo, is a significant Catholic church located in Curvelo, Minas Gerais, Brazil. It holds a unique place among basilicas worldwide as it is the only one dedicated to St. Gerard Majella, a Redemptorist saint whose canonization occurred in 1904.
History and Construction
The initiative to build this basilica was undertaken by Dutch Redemptorist missionaries who were dedicated to spreading the devotion to the newly canonized St. Gerard Majella. After arriving at the Church of the Rosary in Curvelo in 1906, the Redemptorists established their presence, and the groundwork for the Church of St. Gerard was laid. Construction commenced on March 22, 1912, and continued until 1919. During this period, the Redemptorist community received substantial support from the local populace, who contributed through labor and donations for fundraising efforts.
Designation as a Basilica
The church was officially elevated to the status of a basilica by Pope Paul VI. This significant ecclesiastical honor was bestowed by papal decision on April 30, 1966, recognizing the basilica's importance and its dedication to St. Gerard Majella.
Source: Wikipedia ↗
Frequently Asked Questions
Where is the Basilica of St. Gerard Majella located?
The Basilica of St. Gerard Majella is located in the city of Curvelo, in the state of Minas Gerais, Brazil. It is also referred to as the Basilica of Curvelo.
Who is the Basilica of St. Gerard Majella dedicated to?
This basilica is dedicated to St. Gerard Majella, a Redemptorist saint who was canonized in 1904. It is noted as being the only basilica in the world solely dedicated to him.
When was the Basilica of St. Gerard Majella built?
Construction of the basilica began on March 22, 1912, and was completed in 1919. It was originally built by Dutch Redemptorist missionaries.
When did the church receive basilica status?
The church was honored with the status of basilica by a decision of Pope Paul VI on April 30, 1966.
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