Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Newark (must see)

The Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the fifth-largest cathedral in North America, serves as the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Newark. Construction of this grand edifice began in 1899 and concluded in 1954, fulfilling a vision of creating a "fitting monument to the faith." Initially designed in an English/Irish-Gothic style, the plans were later revised to adopt a French-Gothic architectural approach. The proposal for the cathedral dates back to 1859 by Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley, just six years after his appointment by Pope Pius IX. Various sites were considered for its location, but ultimately, the chosen site was adjacent to Branch Brook Park in Newark's Forest Hill section, providing a scenic and serene environment for the cathedral.

The construction of the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart spanned nearly 95 years, reflecting the dedication and perseverance of the community and church leaders. The dedication ceremony was held on October 19, 1954, officiated by Archbishop Thomas Aloysius Boland of Newark. This event marked the culmination of decades of planning and effort, resulting in a magnificent structure that stands as a testament to the faith and resilience of the Catholic community in Newark.

A significant moment in the cathedral's history occurred in 1995 when Pope John Paul II visited the United States and celebrated evening prayer at the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart. During this visit, the cathedral was elevated to the status of a basilica, becoming the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. This elevation not only recognized the cathedral's architectural and historical significance but also its importance as a spiritual center.

Today, the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart continues to serve as a vibrant place of worship and community gathering. It hosts concerts throughout the year, open to the public, showcasing its rich musical heritage. The basilica is home to the largest pipe organ ever built by the Schantz Organ Company, featuring 154 ranks playable from two consoles, adding to the cathedral's grandeur and enhancing the spiritual experience of its visitors.