Baltimore Basilica - America's First Cathedral

On This Day | July 7, 1806

On this day 220 years ago, John Carroll laid the cornerstone for the Cathedral of the Assumption, the nation's first cathedral.

What began as a bold vision for the young Church in America would become the mother church of the United States and a place where generations have gathered to worship, pray, and celebrate the faith.

We give thanks for this historic moment that laid the foundation for what is today America's First Cathedral.

Happy Independence Day!

As our nation celebrates 250 years, we invite you to join us in giving thanks for the blessings of liberty and praying for the United States.

Continue the celebration with us tomorrow, Sunday, July 5, at the 10:30 a.m. Mass celebrated by Archbishop William E. Lori. Stay afterward for festive treats and the opportunity to venerate the major relics of Margaret Mary Alacoque, on display following Mass.

May God continue to guide our nation. Happy Fourth of July!

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Relics of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque to visit Baltimore Basilica July 5-6 - Catholic Review Major relics of St. Margaret Mary Alacoque, the 17th-century French nun known as the Apostle of the Sacred Heart, will be available for public veneration at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore July 5-6 as part of a nationwide tour organized b...