What really matters in life is that we are loved by Christ, and that we love him in return. In comparison to the love of Jesus, everything else is secondary. – Blessed John Paul II
While not the largest in ground dimensions, is one of the most massive and striking in the area. The plan was executed by parishioner Peter Dederichs. His design combined facets of Pisan Romanesque and Venetian Renaissance to create a unique and beautiful structure. It was completed in 1885 at a cost of $81,210.53.
The structure’s interior dimensions are considerably emphasized by its cool shades of blue. The length of the church is 176 feet, the width of the nave 80 feet and the transept 116 feet. The ceiling of the nave at the center of the arch towers 90 feet from the floor.
As one enters the church, one is immediately impressed by its magnificent proportions. It is Roman in style and cruciform in plan – the cross being seen to best advantage in the richly frescoed ceiling
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On the ceiling, at the center of the transept as you approach the altar, is a fine painting of our patroness the Virgin Mary.
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The twin towers of the West facade are a very important part of the city landscape. Hidden above the portico is a gallery of pillars and two huge stone roses.
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Beautiful polished granite columns, originally intended for the state capital building and purchased for the paltry sum of $4,625, divide the side aisles from the nave and support the walls of the main roof.
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