The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist — Attraction in Savannah

The church itself is undeniably beautiful—especially after an $11 million rebuild following a lightning strike. But given the scale of donations they seek from visitors, you’d hope the experience would reflect Christian values. Sadly, it did not.

My husband and I were quietly admiring the sanctuary and respectfully taking a few photos, as permitted by posted signs, when we were abruptly and rudely approached by a woman affiliated with the church. She asked if we were staying for the noon Mass. We explained that the guard had told us we had a few minutes to observe the inside before it began in 35 minutes. Her response was unexpectedly hostile: “Well then visiting time is over. No more photos. People are praying.” Yet no one was praying near us, and we were not being disruptive in any way.

Her attitude was anything but Christlike—condescending, unkind, and deeply disappointing. Of all the places we visited, this was the worst experience, ironically at a place of worship. It’s hard to understand how someone representing the church and God could behave in such a manner.

This encounter left a sour taste in our mouths. It was not only disheartening—it was completely at odds with the love, grace, and hospitality we associate with our faith. I expected to feel uplifted. Instead, I left feeling disrespected and saddened. It’s not the kind of witness I’d ever want associated...

As a lifelong Catholic i was baptized and received my First Communion at Embakasi Catholic Church in Kenya, visiting the Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist Savannah i was a deeply spiritual and nostalgic experience. Growing up, I was an altar boy, youth group, choir, doing first reading and second reading. even i had the unforgettable honor of serving as an altar boy during Pope John Paul II’s Mass when he visited Kenya in 1995. Moments like that shaped my faith and left an imprint on my soul.

Even though I know most of my prayers and the Rosary in Kiswahili, the beauty of the Catholic Church is that it remains the same no matter where you are in the world — one holy, universal Church with one God.

Today’s Mass at the Basilica was peaceful and uplifting. I arrived a little late but just in time to catch a powerful message from the priest about loving your neighbor — a core teaching that reminded me of everything I was raised to believe. The architecture of the church, the reverence in the liturgy, and the sense of unity among the congregation made me feel at home, even far from where I started my spiritual journey.

I am grateful for the Catholic faith and for churches like this that continue to inspire and welcome believers from all...

This is one of the most beautiful churches I've ever seen and probably the most beautiful building in all of Savannah. You must see it when touring the historic area! They have tours most days, unless they have service or a private event like a wedding. The tour is great. I've also attended a gorgeous wedding that so well done. Hardly any flowers or decoration were necessary because it is so beautiful inside and out. You can walk here from River Street and Bay Street and Forsythe Park. It's a slmust-see ans visit on your trip...