‘A symbol of hope and unity’: Cathedral celebrates 70th anniversary
Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart marked the 70th anniversary of its dedication on Oct. 19 with a celebratory Mass attended by about 200 Catholics from across the Archdiocese of Newark. They gathered to honor the enduring legacy of their mother church with a liturgy led by Auxiliary Bishop Manuel A. Cruz, who urged the faithful to uphold the Cathedral Basilica’s mission as a beacon for Newark and beyond. Auxiliary Bishops Elias R. Lorenzo and Gregory J. Studerus joined Bishop Cruz in concelebrating the Mass.
The commemoration also featured an elaborate photo display chronicling the Cathedral Basilica’s history, including its dedication by Archbishop Thomas A. Boland on Oct. 19, 1954. Following the service, guests enjoyed an outdoor reception, sharing fellowship in the shadow of the Cathedral Basilica’s majestic architecture.
“The Cathedral Basilica has been a symbol of hope and unity in the Archdiocese for 70 years, so celebrating this anniversary was incredibly important,” said Father Bismarck Chau, rector of the Cathedral Basilica and the liturgy’s American Sign Language interpreter. “I was pleased with the turnout — it was an honor to see so many people here. Many Catholics tend to focus on their own parish, but the Cathedral Basilica is truly everyone’s parish. I want everyone to know they are always welcome to come and experience the beauty and sanctity of this place.”
Although the Cathedral Basilica’s cornerstone was laid in 1899, construction faced delays due to architectural challenges, fundraising obstacles, and the Great Depression. The building was finally completed in the early 1950s, establishing the Cathedral Basilica as one of North America’s most notable religious landmarks. It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1976 and draws thousands of pilgrims from throughout the world annually — including Pope St. John Paul II, who visited in 1995.
Looking ahead, the Cathedral Basilica plans to enhance visitor engagement with self-guided audio tours and interactive exhibits. A larger celebration is also in the works for the 75th anniversary in 2029. The anniversary photo display will remain available for viewing through November. To learn more about the Cathedral Basilica, visit www.newarkbasilica.org.
Photos of the Mass by Archdiocese of Newark/Julio Eduardo Herrera, Photos of the reception courtesy of the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart
Featured image: Newark’s Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart marked the 70th anniversary of its dedication on Oct. 19 with a celebratory Mass attended by about 200 Catholics from across the Archdiocese of Newark. (Photo courtesy of the Archdiocese of Newark)
