Massachusetts is a dream US state to some. People would consider this their top tourist destination with its natural grandeur. Aside from this, it is also popular because of its rich history which the Catholic Church is part of. Currently, you would notice it through the Catholic Churches including Cathedrals, Shrines, and other religious sites scattered throughout the state. In this blog post, we will visit the beautiful Catholic Cathedrals in Massachusetts, touring each for your travel reference. Sit back, read, and take notes! The next time you tour around the Bay State, you’d come ready.
Here are the must-visit Catholic Cathedrals in Massachusetts.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross
Let’s start our virtual tour with the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. Located at 1400 Washington Street, Boston, this Cathedral and Parish was built in 1867 and completed in 1875. It is the biggest Catholic Church in New England. Its Gothic Revival architectural style is just fascinating. Its facade is in puddingstone with limestone trim. There is also a rose window on top of it boasting its classical look. The interior consists of a striking Altar with stained glass windows behind that are eye-catching. It also houses its pipe organ that dates back to 1875. What this Cathedral makes it a pilgrim favorite is because of a significant relic it preserves, a little fragment of the Holy Cross. Lastly, Pope John Paul II visited this site in 1979 which is truly inspiring. One of the must-see Catholic Churches in Boston.
St. Michael’s Cathedral
Our next destination is St. Michael’s Cathedral. Located in Springfield, Massachusetts, it is the seat of the Bishop of the Diocese of Springfield. It was founded in 1847 and completed in 1861 making it the oldest Catholic Church in the city. It has been on the list of Historic District Contributing Properties since 1974 and on the National Register of Historic Places as well. With an architectural style of Italianate and federal, the structure is in bricks. The exterior is unconventional yet traditional. Inside, a gorgeous Altar will welcome you. It also has stained glass windows that are artistic depicting the responsibilities of the Bishop. Religious sculptures are everywhere as well. To add, the grounds are well-maintained. A historic cathedral to visit in Massachusetts.
Cathedral of St. Paul
The Mother Church of the Diocese of Worcester, Cathedral of St. Paul was founded in 1869 and completed in 1874. Located at 38 Chatham Street in Worcester, this Victorian Gothic structure has been on the list of the National Register of Historic Places since 1980. A stone cruciform building, it has an exterior that is astounding. Its facade has a tall square tower. Inside, a simple yet elegant Altar is the focus. Huge stained Glass windows give colors to their interior which is breathtaking. There are also remarkable religious artworks such as sculptures and paintings around. Aside from these physical attributes, the community is warm and welcoming. This is a Massachusetts treasure.
Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption
The last seat of the Bishop we will tour is the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption. Situated in Fall River, its construction started in 1852 and was completed in 1856. A Cathedral of the Diocese of Fall River, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983. Made up of native granite, this Early English Gothic Revival building has an impressive exterior. On its facade is a classic rose window. When you enter, sacred artworks will astonish you. A hammer-beam ceiling with gold-leaf decoration is just notable. The windows represent the mysteries of the rosary. In addition, the Cathedral shelters additional Chapels, the Lady Chapel, and the Bishop’s Chapel. A marvelous Cathedral worthy of the faithful’s visit.
Conclusion
There you have the Catholic Cathedrals in Massachusetts that you should visit!
History, architectural designs, and artworks are the primary reasons why pilgrims love to visit Catholic Cathedrals. Cathedrals of Massachusetts have all these features. They hold tons of backstories of the past, they possess jaw-dropping structural designs and they keep religious items of importance. A visit to these havens will surely renew your spirituality, reconnecting you to God in an aesthetic and meaningful way.
May you have a fruitful and holy journey.
Pray, travel, and enjoy!