Denver's Cathedral Basilica Celebrates 114 Years of Faith and Beauty
At an anniversary Mass, Denver Archbishop James Golka reminded the faithful that the Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception's greatest treasure isn't its magnificent architecture, but the generations of souls who have encountered Christ there.
For the last 114 years, Christ’s light has penetrated hearts in Denver’s Cathedral Basilica of the Immaculate Conception as much as the sun shines through its stunning stained glass.
“From my first visit to the Cathedral many years ago until today, I continue to be struck by her beauty,” Father Michael Bodzioch, rector of the Cathedral Basilica, said. “I can't help but marvel at the vision, the insight and the divine inspiration given to the designers and founders of this Basilica, this magnificent house of prayer.”
Now 114 years old, the church continues to inspire and point Heavenward.
“These days, I notice more and more details,” Father Bodzioch said. “As I do, I consider and acknowledge the generosity of the lay people who, over a century ago and up to today, have made this possible.”
This year, on October 26, the eve of the anniversary of the church’s original dedication, the faithful flocked to its sanctuary.
Opening the anniversary Mass, Denver Archbishop James Golka invited those present to recall all the souls who have been a part of the parish since its beginnings.
Commenting on the cost of the building, which totaled approximately $500,000 in 1912, Archbishop Golka noted that its sacred space is made priceless by those who inhabit it.
“When you’re in a house of worship, money costs don’t matter.” Archbishop Golka said. “The beauty of the church is the people of God gathered around the altar, being fed by the word of Jesus and his Body and Blood.”
Roots for the Cathedral Basilica were planted in 1902 and reached full stature in 1911. Though a lightning bolt attempted to cut its twin spires down to size, knocking off 25 feet on August 7, 1912, they were repaired and still stand, capped at 210 feet above Denver’s downtown.
Drawing from the Gospel reading about Zacchaeus, Archbishop Golka reminded those present of the church’s true foundation and capstone in Christ. As the chief tax collector, Zacchaeus sought Jesus but had to “climb” through the struggle of his sin as he climbed the sycamore tree.
“He knew Jesus was coming by, like he does at every Mass in this Cathedral Basilica,” Archbishop Golka said. “Jesus wants to find us who are sinners and lead us to conversion.”
As Jesus draws souls to himself through beautiful spaces, the Mother Church of Denver sets the scene to change hearts.
“As we celebrate this momentous event in the life of our parish and our archdiocese, you’re here because Jesus called you,” Archbishop Golka said. “Jesus wants to come into your soul. Brothers and sisters, let him change you here today.”
Attendees left with that invitation to be transformed, not just in the Cathedral Basilica, but in every place they encounter Jesus.
“The Cathedral Basilica is my favorite church here in Denver,” Christine Lustenburger, local resident and attendee of the anniversary Mass, said. “It’s so beautiful. As Archbishop Golka said, it is priceless for the sake of the souls who encounter Jesus here.”
