St. Mary's Roman Catholic Basilica — Attraction in Phoenix

St Mary's is a welcoming Church, and has a long history in the Catholicism of Arizona!

There are many unique elements of this warm, friendly and active Parish that attract visiting Catholics, Snowbirds, March Madness attendees, tourists looking for Mass times, and locals alike... the stunning Architecture, Spanish Altar design, the reknown Church Organ, the statues and artwork, the legacy stories of the amazing individuals who built and maintained this strong presence of Jesus in Phoenix, since the 1880's.

One exceptional element is the appearance of Saint Pope John Paul II, who knealt in prayer at the back center aisle in Sep of 1987, as part of his hugely popular American tour.

There used to be a beautiful memorial marker in the center aisle, where he notably knealt. Now that placque is placed just off to the side center aisle. This spot is a special place of prayer, in his memory!

St Mary's has a young popular Pastor, and easily approachable Priests. The Ushers are also friendly, low-key and welcoming.

The congregation is typically mixed, families, couples, singles, young & old. Nice Church-going people...

After Mass, there was a family Baptism continuing the faith, right in the middle of the Sanctuary.

Donuts & coffee in the Hall provides a space and time for fellowship & community.

The Pastor is working with the Knights of Columbis to revitalize the local Men's Council. KoC are a wonderful Catholic Men's fraternal association, the largest in the world offering plenty of leadership development opportunities cloaked in Charity and Unity. A good -guy group of Catholic men, 18 yrs and older. ( www.KofC.org )

St Mary's, designated a Basilica by "JPII", is located adjacent to the Convention Center downtown.

Some parking spaces onsite and metered parking available on the street. St Mary's is a designated historic building, and has a great vivid Arizona history.

Highly recommend this Basilica for Mass, tourism, faith-filled visitation and special intentions in the downtown...

St. Mary's Roman Catholic Basilica in downtown Phoenix, Arizona... Built in the Spanish Revival Colonial style. Began public worship in 1915...

A large courtyard encompasses the grounds... the many features include cast iron figures; including that of St Francis of Assisi, Pope John Paul ll and Mother Teresa. Take 10-20 minutes of your time to walk through the courtyards many -public motifs.

-The Basilica'...

...The interiors main features are the stained glassed windows. ...The windows compliment Phoenix's sunny weather 300 days of the year...

Other features include the Pieta of Christ and the Virgin Mary, Joseph with the infant Jesus. The main altar and Christ Figurine and the Virgin Mary portrait.

The admission is FREE and the public is always welcome.

St. Mary's Basilica is Phoenix's oldest and most established religious site.

Catholic and Franciscan... the Friars staff the Basilica and it's grounds.

The Basilica is worth your visit, due plan time to tour the grounds and it's many symbols and hallmarks.

Open M-F 10AM-4PM SAT 10AM-6PM and...

Wow, excellent homily this AM by Pastor John. Best application of the text of Jesus walking on water I've ever heard. Likely the most accurately presented according to the text also.

Back again, Sunday #2. The application of the idea of sacrifice - the first time ever in a Christian church, I've heard sacrifice properly explained. Applied to here on earth, where we actually live.

Most homilies, I've heard thousands, speak to people's standing/relationship status with God.

This sermon, from the text, preached the idea of sacrifice, when we walk out the doors of the cathedral.

#3 Homily Review 6.16.24: Young pastor missed the mark a little bit. Off the mark assertions, imo. Jesus wasn't suggesting we be small or are small relative to Webb telescope. We are all properly small and all ought to become like the mustard plant does: Magnificently big and fruitful for others sake.

6.23.24 Homily: Hmm, sin goes on the alter, yes. Consuming Christ's blood and body, metaporically into us...does Christ's/God's essence want to mix with or...