Posted in Mississippi
August 05, 2016
This Stunning Basilica Hiding In Mississippi Is Too Beautiful For Words
Mississippi is full of breathtakingly beautiful churches, and one of those churches is definitely St. Mary Basilica. Steeped in both history and beauty, the Natchez landmark has attracted visitors from near and far.
We’re aware that these uncertain times are limiting many aspects of life as we all practice social and physical distancing. While we’re continuing to feature destinations that make our state wonderful, we don’t expect or encourage you to go check them out immediately. We believe that supporting local attractions is important now more than ever and we hope our articles inspire your future adventures! And on that note, please nominate your favorite local business that could use some love right now: https://www.onlyinyourstate.com/nominate/
The Diocese of Natchez, which was the first diocese in Mississippi, was established in 1837. Two years after the diocese was established, Bishop John J. Chanche arrived in Natchez to serve as the first bishop. Bishop Chanche then pushed for a cathedral to be built and within a year, construction on the church had started.
The church was originally named Our Lady of Sorrows.
On September 19, 1886, it was consecrated and served as the Cathedral of the Natchez Diocese until 1977, at which time the diocese was moved to Jackson. Once the diocese moved, St. Mary became a church. In 1998, the church attained basilica status.
12 of the windows were designed by Tyroler Glassmalerie of Innsbruch, Austria, and were installed from 1884 – 1893. The other four windows were designged by Emil Frei of St. Louis, Missouri, and were installed in 1961.
The marble used for the altars, communion rail, and Episcopal chair are all made from Carrara marble. The pieces were created in Italy specifically for St. Mary.
Today, the church is home to an active congregation of approximately 2,000. Visit St. Mary’s Basilica at 107 South Union Street in Natchez. For more information on the church, including a mass schedule, click here.
Learn about another historic church in “The Remnants Of This Abandoned Church In Mississippi Are Hauntingly Beautiful.”
