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Saint Joseph Cathedral Celebrates 50th Anniversary This Sunday

By Andy Hart

May 17, 2012

Archbishop Henry J. Mansell will celebrate the 50th Anniversary of the consecration of the Cathedral of Saint Joseph, 140 Farmington Ave. in Hartford, on May 20th at 3 p.m.

The original Cathedral of Saint Joseph was destroyed by fire on December 31, 1956. To this day, the cause of the fire is unknown. The cathedral as we know it today was consecrated by Auxiliary Bishop John F. Hackett on May 23, 1962.

In celebration of the milestone, a permanent altar has been installed replacing the cathedral's temporary altar, which was used for 50 years. Archbishop Mansell blessed the new altar during the Vigil Mass on April 28th. The Knights of Columbus funded the installation of the new altar, which is dedicated to their founder, Father Michael J. McGivney. McGivney was born and raised in Waterbury and served as a priest at Saint Mary in New Haven and Saint Thomas in Thomaston before he died in 1890.

As the Mother Church of the Archdiocese, the Cathedral of Saint Joseph draws people to praise God from all the 213 parishes and Catholic institutions throughout Hartford, New Haven and Litchfield Counties. Every year over 100,000 visitors pray at the Cathedral of Saint Joseph.

The public is invited to join in the celebration of the 50th Anniversary Mass. Light refreshments will be served after the Mass in the lower cathedral. A documentary about the construction of the new cathedral will be available for viewing and exhibits about the history of the cathedral will be on display.

"The Anniversary Mass will be blessed way to celebrate the peace and communion of our people from across the entire Archdiocese. The beauty of the Cathedral raises our hearts and minds in continuing praise and thanksgiving to Almighty God."

For historical information about the Cathedral of Saint Joseph visit: archdiocese-ofhartford.org.