What’s a Basilica?
A basilica is a special designation granted by the Pope to churches of particular historical, spiritual, or architectural significance. The title comes in two forms: Major and Minor. There are only four Major Basilicas, all located in Rome.
- St. Peter’s Basilica in Vatican City, the most renowned and spiritually significant.
- St. John Lateran, the cathedral of the Bishop of Rome (the Pope) and the oldest of the four.
- St. Paul Outside the Walls, built over the burial site of St. Paul the Apostle.
- St. Mary Major, the largest church in Rome dedicated to the Virgin Mary.
All others, like St. Mary’s Basilica in Phoenix, are Minor Basilicas, recognized for their importance in the life of the Church. To become a basilica, a church must demonstrate:
- Historical and spiritual significance
- Architectural beauty and liturgical excellence
- A vibrant and active liturgical and pastoral life
Once designated, a basilica receives special symbols of honor:
- The ombrellino (a red and gold umbrella)
- The tintinnabulum (a bell mounted on a pole) These are displayed in the sanctuary and used in processions, symbolizing the church’s connection to the Holy Father.
St. Mary’s Basilica: A Sacred Landmark in Phoenix
Founded in 1881, St. Mary’s is the oldest Catholic parish in Phoenix and was the only Catholic parish in the city until 1924.
The current church, built between 1902 and 1914 in the Mission Revival and Spanish Colonial Revival styles, was dedicated in 1915. It features Arizona’s largest collection of stained glass windows and a magnificent 26-rank pipe organ.
On September 2, 1985, Pope St. John Paul II elevated St. Mary’s to the status of Minor Basilica, recognizing its deep spiritual and historical significance. Just two years later, in 1987, he visited the basilica in person, addressing thousands from the church’s balcony in a moment that marked a profound and historic milestone for the Diocese of Phoenix.
Feast Days and Liturgical Privileges
As a basilica, St. Mary’s celebrates two special feast days:
- February 22 – Feast of the Chair of St. Peter: Honoring the Pope’s pastoral authority and the basilica’s connection to him.
- September 2 – Anniversary of the Basilica’s Designation: A local solemnity celebrating the church’s elevation to basilica status.
These feast days are liturgically significant and celebrated with special solemnity, music, and community gatherings, reminding us of our unique place in the universal Church.
Basilicas Around the World
- There are over 1,800 Minor Basilicas worldwide.
- Basilica of the Annunciation – Nazareth, Israel
Built over the site where the Angel Gabriel appeared to Mary. - Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe – Mexico City, Mexico
One of the most visited Catholic pilgrimage sites in the world. - Basilica of St. Francis – Assisi, Italy
Burial place of St. Francis and a masterpiece of medieval art and architecture.
- Basilica of the Annunciation – Nazareth, Israel
- The United States is home to approximately 90 Minor Basilicas, each recognized for its unique contribution to the Church’s mission.
- Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception – Washington, D.C.
The largest Catholic church in North America and a major pilgrimage site. - Basilica of St. Mary – Minneapolis, Minnesota
The first basilica established in the U.S. (designated in 1926). - Mission Basilica San Carlos Borromeo (Carmel Mission) – Carmel-by-the-Sea, California
Final resting place of St. Junípero Serra.
- Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception – Washington, D.C.
Why It Matters
Being a basilica is more than a title—it’s a mission. St. Mary’s is called to be a model of liturgy, hospitality, and service, a beacon of Catholic identity in downtown Phoenix, and a place where the faithful can encounter Christ in beauty, tradition, and community.