Look for Saint Joseph Cathedral towering above the tidy colonial buildings of Manchester, New Hampshire. The massive red brick church manages to simultaneously be dominating and welcoming. Whether you are a practicing Roman Catholic or just want to enjoy its serene beauty, stop by and enjoy a peaceful respite from the outside world.
Saint Joseph Cathedral has watched over downtown Manchester for more than a century. Walk inside and immerse yourself in a tranquil zone where time seems to stand still. The church was originally built to serve the worship needs of the city’s large Irish immigrant population.
The structure was enlarged in 1892. In addition to a new sanctuary and sacristy, the massive Chapel of the Most Blessed Sacrament was added onto the existing church. Windows were replaced, elaborate molding was added and the church transformed into a cathedral. Go to the chapel, where you can see two stained-glass windows from the original structure. In 1894, it was consecrated as the cathedral church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Manchester.
Explore the interior. Despite its cavernous size, the cathedral lacks the austere aura of many massive cathedrals.In the chapel, intricately carved wooden molding supports a crisp white vaulted ceiling. Inspect the beautiful stained-glass windows flanking the worship benches and depicting Biblical scenes including the Last Supper and the Crucifixion. The burial vault for the first five bishops of Manchester lies beneath the high altar.
Visit the cathedral any day of the week. Check the parish calendar for the daily Mass schedule, on weekdays in the chapel and weekends in the cathedral. Special Roman Catholic ceremonies, including the Chrism Mass and celebrations of Jubilee, also take place throughout the year. If you arrive during Mass, be respectful of the worshippers around you.
Saint Joseph Cathedral is located in the heart of Manchester. Park in the cathedral parking lot in the front or easily get here on foot if you’re already in the area. Walk around and explore this charming New England city and all the shops, restaurants and historical sights that it offers.
