In 1926, Pope Pius XI conferred the title of Basilica on The Church of Saint Mary in Minneapolis, designating it as the first Basilica in the United States. This rare and historic honor recognized the church’s architectural beauty, liturgical vitality, and importance to the Catholic Church in America.
Throughout the 100th anniversary year of 2026, The Basilica of Saint Mary seeks to commemorate this centennial milestone through a series of meaningful, inclusive, and inspiring celebrations that reflect our mission of worship, service, justice, and the arts.
Taco Bar and Bingo
Join us for the second Centennial celebration event - Bingo!
Saturday, March 21 following the 5:00pm Mass.
Suggested donation is $10 per person with a $25 family maximum. Family friendly activity open to all.
From The Basilica Magazine
Pope Pius XI deemed the Pro-Cathedral of Saint Mary worthy of this title “by reason of the piety of its worshippers as well as by the splendor of its ritual and the richness of its adornment.” Henceforth, the Pro-Cathedral of Saint Mary was known as The Basilica of Saint Mary.
From Pro-Cathedral to Basilica to Co-Cathedral
Anticipating the centennial anniversary of being a Basilica
Johan van Parys, PhD
Managing Director of Ministries/ Director of Liturgy & Sacred Arts