Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, Vincennes, USA Verified listing

Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, Vincennes, USA

The Basilica of St. Francis Xavier, also known as the Old Cathedral, stands in Vincennes, Indiana. It belongs to the Diocese of Evansville. Located at 205 Church Street, it faces George Rogers Clark National Historical Park. Moreover, it sits in the Vincennes Historic District, adding to its cultural value.

Jesuit missionaries founded the parish in 1734. The King of France donated the land. Although records began in 1749, the church’s roots reach back further. Over the years, the parish grew steadily. As a result, leaders built the current Greek Revival-style church in 1826. They placed it near or on the site of two earlier churches.

In 1834, Pope Gregory XVI established the Diocese of Vincennes. From that point on, St. Francis Xavier served as the cathedral. It held this status until 1898. Later, in 1970, Pope Paul VI declared it a minor basilica. Therefore, it gained recognition as one of the most historic churches in the country.

The basilica also shaped future Church leaders. Two priests went on to become bishops. In addition, many served as rectors and vicars general. Between 1837 and 1882, it ordained seventy-five priests. Among them, Michael E. Shawe became the first ordained in Indiana. In 1847, Bishop John Stephen Bazin received his consecration here. This marked the first episcopal consecration in the state.

Furthermore, the basilica's crypt holds the remains of four early bishops. These include Simon Bruté and Célestin de la Hailandière. Their tombs give the site even more historical depth.

In 1976, the U.S. government added the church to the National Register of Historic Places. Today, it welcomes visitors, pilgrims, and parishioners alike. Through history, worship, and community, it continues to reflect the heart of Catholic heritage in Indiana.

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