St. Joseph Basilica (Webster)

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St. Joseph Basilica in Webster, Massachusetts was founded in 1887 as the first Catholic parish designated for Polish immigrants in New England. In 1998, the parish church was raised to the dignity of a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II.

The basilica is located in the Catholic Diocese of Worcester.

Official site (retrieved 2006-07-31)

St. Joseph Polish-American Parish, although an ethnic community, is integral part of the Catholic Church in the United States and participates in its mission. It is the oldest Polish-American parish in New England established in 1887. Immigrants from Poland arrived to this part of the United States after the country failed to win its independence in the January Insurrection of 1863. The new immigrants initially attended masses at St. Louis Church assisted by the Polish clergy from the state of New York. As the number of immigrants grew they desired to pray and participate in divine worship in their native language and with the permission of the bishop of Springfield, MA, a new parish was organized in 1887.

St. Joseph Basilica is a unique sacred edifice on the geographical landscape of New England. Its neo-gothic structure and rich artistic internal decor signify the dedication, pride and faith of our ancestors. As we enter the bronze doors of this unique House of God, we find ourselves in a sacred environment where we experience His transcendent power. The architect was John William Donahue of Springfield MA, who was for many years the official architect of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Springfield and, in that capacity designed many buildings throughout Western Massachusetts for Roman Catholic patrons.

The interaction of art and light, the symmetry of lines and shadows, the graceful colonnade, and the monumental and decorative marble columns impart a sense of stability, security and permanence. The intricate religious mosaics, and the vibrant colors of the renaissance murals with scriptural scenery make visible to us the timeless history of our salvation. Our attention is captivated and inspired by the brilliance of sunlight cascading colorfully through the magnificent stained glass windows depicting the life of Christ. The power of the enshrined gospel message, the imposing presence of the Eucharistic table, but above all, the tabernacle majestically enthroned in the sanctuary, create an ambiance of reverence and prayer.