Saint Louis Cathedral - Message Center

Dear Visitor:

Welcome to the official web-site for St. Louis Cathedral-Basilica. The parish established in 1718, has been a constant presence in the life, culture and spirituality of this city for well over two and a half centuries. The present Cathedral, parts of which are over two hundred years old, has served as a place for prayer for countless of thousands of residents and visitors. The facade of our Cathedral has actually become a symbol of our city itself, recognized around the world.

Archbishop Schulte, my predecessor, wrote in a pastoral letter:

St. Louis Cathedral is located in the heart of the French Quarter. It is

flanked by the Pontalba Apartments, where people reside, and the

Cabildo and Presbytere, seats of civic government. It faces the

Mississppi River, source of industry and commerce, and Jackson

Square, urban park for recreation and leisure.

St. Louis Cathedral is the icon of the heavenly city. It is the seat of the proclamation of God's word in the archdiocese. It is the church where archdiocesan liturgy is celebrated. Members of the parish include people of many races, ethnic backgrounds and social status.

The Cathedral is also the soul of the earthly city. It is here that General Jackson was welcomed to sing the Te Deum following his success in the Battle of New Orleans. It is here that ecumenical and interreligious services offer the opportunity for the wider community to gather in prayer. Archbishop Rummel preached racial integration here. Archbishop Hannan championed the poor, Archbishop Schulte repeatedly challenged the city to a culture of life. It is my hope that the Cathedral will be the focal point for evangelization to the city and the surrounding civil parishes.

Whenever it is possible, I celebrate the 10:30 a.m. Mass each Sunday at the Cathedral. If you are visiting New Orleans, I welcome you to any of the Masses of our churches, but extend a particular welcome to the Sunday 10:30 a.m. Mass.

I hope also that you will take the opportunity to look through this web-site which offers a history of our Cathedral, a listing of our liturgies, sacramental information and a virtual tour of our venerable and historic church.

May God bless you and unite us in His love in the Church that He founded.

	The Saint Louis Cathedral Cathedral of Saint Louis King of France, A Minor Basilica established as a Parish in 1720 in New Orleans, Louisiana

Search this Site	Friends	Weddings	History	Contents	News