Cathedrals of the United States.

Basilica and Co-cathedral of the Assumption
of the Blessed Virgin Mary
Baltimore Maryland.

Cathedral of Baltimore.

After the war of independence the Holy See permitted the establishment, in the new republic, of a native hierarchy. Baltimore, because of the large concentration of American Catholics in that city, and because of the city's historical connection to the development of English speaking Catholicism in the New World was chosen as the See City for the new diocese. In 1806 the Cathedral of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary was consecrated and became the first cathedral of American Catholicism. Since it open it has been elevated to the rank of a Basilica, and enjoys the title of Co-Cathedral of the Arch-diocese of Baltimore. This magnificent edifice has been a focal point of Catholic life in the United States, functioning not only as the heart of the Diocese and after the Arch-diocese of Baltimore, but as the location for three local councils and a host of other national Catholic events.

An view of the interior of the Basilica
after the renovation project of 2004.

Christopher Columbus Day

"The Discovery of the Americas"
by the Catalan artist Dali.

Christopher Columbus; destined herald of the true faith to half of the human race.

XLVI anniversary of the opening of the Council

October 11th 1962 His Holiness Pope John XXIII solemnly opened

the second ecumenical council to be held at the Vatican.

Unlike previous ecumenical councils, the Second Vatican Council was not held to combat contemporary heresies or deal with awkward disciplinary questions but simply, in the words of Pope John's opening message, to renew "ourselves and the flocks committed to us, so that there may radiate before all men the lovable features of Jesus Christ, who shines in our hearts that God's splendor may be revealed."