An ornately carved marble baptismal font graces the worship space of this historic Minor Basilica, which was built from 1857-1892.
From the National Park Service Cane River Heriage website: (
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"Immaculate Conception Catholic Church
Immaculate Conception Catholic Church, located in the heart of the Natchitoches Historic District, is descended from a line of Catholic Churches dating back to a small chapel at Fort St. Jean Baptiste, built only a few years after the town's founding. Immaculate Conception opened its doors in 1857, though construction of the church was not entirely completed until 1892. The name of the church changed several times, until it received its current name, Immaculate Conception. The church was classified as a cathedral until the Episcopal See was moved to Alexandria in 1910.
All of the interior furnishings of the church were imported from France, with the exception of the pews. Much more elaborate than its predecessors, Immaculate Conception features a hand-carved baptismal font, hand-painted Stations of the Cross and several chandeliers. Leading to the choir loft is an interesting spiral staircase with no central support. Across the street from the church stand the seminary, bishop’s house and the old rectory. The seminary was built in 1855, and the bishop’s residence was added on later. The rectory was originally built in New Orleans in 1885, but was dismantled and shipped to Natchitoches. Currently, the bishop’s house and seminary serve as the Bishop Martin Museum, housing many of the church’s artifacts and records.
Immaculate Conception was restored between 1955 and 1956, during which the front vestibule was added. Since then the distinctive outline of Immaculate Conception Church has been a centerpiece of the historic district. The local Catholic community continues to care for this church and its grounds, making it one of the most beautiful in the state. The congregation has recently raised 1.2 million dollars to restore and modernize the historic house of worship. "
From the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception website: (
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"Established 1728.
Consecrated as a Cathedral 1854.
Elevated to the Status of Minor Basilica 2010.
What is a Minor Basilica?
A Minor Basilica is a Church of historical and architectural value which has "particular importance for the liturgical and pastoral life" of some place. In essence, it is the Pope's Church in some place around the world. Minor Basilicas are specifically tasked with celebrating the feasts of the liturgical year with great care and attention. "The word of God is to be diligently proclaimed either in homilies or in special sermons. The active participation of the faithful is to be promoted both in the eucharistic celebration and in the celebration of the liturgy of the hours."
On numerous days of the year, "The faithful who devoutly visit the basilica and within it participate in any sacred rite or at least recite the Lord's Prayer and the profession of faith may obtain a plenary indulgence under the usual conditions."
In addition to excellence in the fostering of the Sacred Liturgy, Minor Basilicas are to be places of instruction in the Catholic Faith and evangelization.
All of these mammoth tasks are certainly beyond any priest. They are the universal work of the Church! For this reason, all the faithful of the parish are encouraged to be an active part of the mission of the Minor Basilica.
* Citations taken from the official text governing Minor Basilicas, Domus Ecclesiae.
So why a "Minor" Basilica?
Well, there are only four Major Basilicas: St. Peter's, St. John Latteran, St. Mary Major and St. Paul Outside the Walls. These four Churches are particularly connected to the Pope in history and in practice. All other Basilicas are thus "Minor" Basilicas."