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Basilica

Basilica, from the altarHistory

Built in 1965, the Basilica was designed as the chapel for the Daughters of Charity in conjunction with the construction of the new Saint Joseph's Provincial House. After Mother Seton's beatification, plans were altered for it to serve as the National Shrine of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton, who founded the Sisters of Charity of Saint Joseph's on this site in 1809.

In 1991, Pope John Paul II designated the shrine chapel as a Minor Basilica. Minor basilicas are churches that are outstanding in antiquity, dignity, historical importance, or significance as a center of worship and devotion. On August 4, 1991, Archbishop Agostino Cacciavillan, Apostolic Pro-Nuncio to the United States, officiated the dedication. Special indulgences may be gained during your visit.

Features

These splendid features should not be overlooked when visiting the Basilica.

  • Italian and German artisans incorporated mosaics, rich marble and bronze, and designed the multiple stained glass windows. These designs for the windows and mosaics illustrate themes such as the Marian, many of the Saints, depictions of the Daughters of Charity performing the seven corporal works of mercy, the Evangelists, and an Arc of Angels.
  • The Main Altar, adorned with a bronze canopy and carved image of Christ, is a striking contrast to the colorful mosaics, which depict the apparition of the Blessed Mother to Saint Catherine Labouré. The Miraculous Medal is symbolized in the bronze gates to the altar.
  • The classic marble statue of Our Lady dominates the Altar of the Blessed Sacrament.
  • The Altar of Saint Joseph, whose name and protection have been linked with the valley in Emmitsburg (" Saint Joseph's Valley") since Mother Seton's time, is to the right of the main altar.
  • A statue of St. Vincent de Paul, who with St. Louise de Marillac, founded the Daughters of Charity. It was the rule of Saint Vincent that Mother Seton adopted when establishing her community in Emmitsburg.
  • The Altar of St. Louise de Marillac, Daughter of Charity and patroness of Christian Social Workers, occupies the southern bay area in the nave.
  • In the northern bay area of the vestibule is the Altar of the Relics of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton. Sculpted in Italy, the statue of Saint Elizabeth Ann portrays her role as educator and religious foundress. Beneath the altar rest the treasured relics of the Saint. In every Eucharistic liturgy, the intentions of visitors to the Seton Shrine Basilica are remembered.
  • The Garden of the Holy Agony, with marble statues of our Agonizing Savior and His consoling angel is also located in the northern bay area of the vestibule is. In exquisite mosaic is the hill country of Jerusalem and the sleeping Apostles.
  • Upward to the top of the dome is an oil painting of The Holy Family that is the only oil painting in the Basilica.
  • Above the exit doorway is The Coat of Arms of His Holiness, Pope Paul VI, who proclaimed on September 14, 1975: "Elizabeth Ann Seton is a saint. She is the first daughter of the United States of America to be glorified with this incomparable attribute."
  • Just outside the Gathering Room and near the interior Basilica doors are two reproductions painted by Pietro Gagliardi in 1841 — one of Raphael's famous Sistine Madonna and the other a portrayal of Saint Vincent de Paul entrusting foundlings to a Daughter of Charity.

Masses & Novenas

Visitors are welcome to attend Masses and Novenas at the Shrine Basilica. Check the schedule online. Arrangements may also be made in advance for Masses to be held in conjunction with group tours accompanied by a priest.