Deep within the Nolita neighborhood of Manhattan, you will find one of the most unique, historical, and influential Catholic churches in the whole city, the Basilica of Saint Patrick’s Old Cathedral. Established in 1809, this gorgeous cathedral is considered to be the oldest in the city. A large portion of its intricate architecture, designed by Joseph Francois Mangin, has been lovingly and painstakingly restored to its original appearance. St. Patrick's Old Cathedral was the seat of the Archdiocese until the "new" cathedral was built in 1879 on Fifth Avenue.
Today Old Saint Patrick’s continues to be a "family of people forging a path to the future by helping each other be better disciples of Jesus," led diligently by Monsignor Donald Sakano. The members of the church, as well as local community, grow in faith through celebrations of sacrament, community service, and social interaction, fervently supporting the "beacon for Catholic faithful and a symbol of religious freedom in America."
While here, you and your group will have the chance to attend morning mass at 8 am or 12:10 pm (Saturday at 5:30 pm and Sunday hourly in the morning) and then tour the gorgeous building and learn all about the history of the impoverished Irish community that once started the church that has today grown into a multi-ethnic vital force in the Catholic community.
