Boston is the capital city of Massachusetts. It is known as the “Beantown” because of the baked beans which they are known for. With its rich heritage, Boston is also home to some sites that hold significant history, The Freedom Trail, USS Constitution Museum, and Boston Common to name a few. Aside from these, it also houses Catholic landmarks that are just historic. In this blog post, we will deep dive into the most beautiful Catholic Churches in Boston, virtually touring each for your travel reference. So sit back, read, and take notes. The next time you travel, you’d come prepared.
Here are the must-visit Catholic Churches in Boston.
Cathedral of the Holy Cross
Let’s start our tour with the Cathedral of the Holy Cross. This Cathedral and Parish is located at 1400 Washington Street, Boston. It was built in 1867 and completed in 1875, and is the largest Catholic Church in New England. It has a Gothic Revival architectural style that is just attractive. With its puddingstone with limestone trim and a rose window on the facade, the Cathedral showcases its classical look. Inside, a striking Altar with stained glass windows behind will catch your attention. It also prides its pipe organ that dates back to 1875. Most importantly, it holds a major relic of the Church, a tiny fragment of the Holy Cross. Pope John Paul II visited this site in 1979 making this place even more historic! One of the Catholic Cathedrals to visit in Massachusetts!
Basilica and Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
A Basilica nestled in Mission Hill, the Basilica and Shrine of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, is known as the Mission Church. Since its opening in 1870, it has been under the care of the Redemptorist Congregation. In 1989, it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. In a Romanesque Revival structural style, this spiritual oasis is a work of art. Its outside look is notable with towers. Inside, with religious artworks such as stained glass windows, paintings, and sculptures, it exudes architectural excellence. Since it is a Shrine as well, you can also witness the replica icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help which is popular in different parts of the world. This is one of the Basilicas and Shrines in Boston that is worth a visit.
St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church
Our next stop is St. Cecilia Roman Catholic Church. Located in Boston, Massachusetts, this Parish was established in 1888 and dedicated in 1894. With its Romanesque architectural style, this Parish looks traditional. On the entrance, a huge stained glass window of the Virgin Mary’s coronation on the facade will welcome you. Inside, with a dome covering it is the focus of the Church, an elegant marble Altar with a painting of the Last Supper at the center of the reredos. It is full of remarkable religious paintings and statues. The music in every service is powerful as well. Lastly, it has a vibrant community that is welcoming to everyone. This must be on your bucket list of Catholic Churches to visit in Boston.
St. Leonard of Port Maurice Church
Another holy destination on our list is St. Leonard of Port Maurice Church. Situated in the North end, in Hanover St., Boston, it was founded in 1873 and built by Italian immigrants. It has a Romanesque Revival style of architecture emphasizing its classic exterior. When you get inside, you’ll see a total artwork which is breathtaking! There you’d find a spectacular Altar surrounded by paintings that are just exquisite. The statues are detailed and inspiring. The stained glass windows are resplendent. Everything about it speaks and expresses art. The whole place is quiet and serene as well. Aside from it, it is also known for its historic Peace Garden which is a great place to pray. This is truly a must-visit in the city.
Most Holy Redeemer Parish
The Most Holy Redeemer Parish is the oldest Catholic church in East Boston Massachusetts. It was built by Irish immigrants in 1844. This Gothic revival structure is quaint making it aesthetically appealing especially to those who love traditional Churches. Its facade has a stained glass window giving hues inside. Behind it is a fine-looking choir loft. With tall columns, the highlight inside is the heavenly Altar with the majestic rose window at the center above. The Church is also surrounded by admirable stained glass windows and religious sculptures. It is simple outside but speaks of grandeur inside. To those who are looking for a wedding Church, this must be at top of your choice. This is another historic Haven to visit in Boston.
St. Stephen’s Church
Another Church located in the North End of Boston is St. Stephen’s Church. It was originally built as the New North Church, a congregationalist group, but sold to the Catholic diocese in 1862. It has been on the list of the National Register of Historic Places since 1975. With an architectural style that is federal, it is made of red brick topped by a belfry and a clock tower. Inside, its simplicity is evident. It has a white interior giving a minimalistic vibe, a simple Altar, and religious paintings. There are also statues around the Church including the grounds. Its background story makes this Church unique and interesting. Enough reason to drop by and appreciate. A Church you shouldn’t miss!
Conclusion
There you have the most beautiful Catholic Churches in Boston!
These Catholic Churches possess both beauty and historical significance. The reasons why pilgrims flock to these places. As Catholics, traveling to religious sites is a great way to level up our spirituality. With the loads of memories it holds, we can absolutely learn from them. A visit to these sanctuaries will surely renew your faith, reconnecting you to God which we, faithful should strive for.
Boston is blessed with sacred places. It is up to us if we want to attest to what they offer.
May you have a fruitful and holy journey.
Pray, travel, and enjoy!