Feast of the Assumption and the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption

          This week we celebrate the holy day of the Assumption of the Blessed Mother.

          A year ago I began volunteering once a month as a greeter at the Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington, the mother church of our diocese. It is a magnificent Gothic church with incredible stained glass windows and mosaic stations of the cross. Just entering the church one is overwhelmed by the sheer light and beauty at every turn.

          My greatest joy is introducing the many visitors to its treasures. I am not a docent and do not give tours, but get to tell the guests about some of my favorite features.

           Friends of mine are surprised at the number of visitors who come from cities all over the United States. Some are here visiting friends and family and add the cathedral to their agenda. Others are in groups who include the cathedral as a “must see” on their itinerary. Most of us who’ve lived here for many years are so used to the cathedral that we underestimate its beauty and place in the history and culture of our area.

          Having been to Notre Dame in Paris I can attest to our basilica’s resemblance to that huge church. I have always told visitors that I found Notre Dame to be darker and less inviting than our own cathedral. Perhaps being half the size gives it an intimacy that Notre Dame doesn’t have or the light catches our windows better for some reason. Regardless, I am proud to show off this beautiful tribute to our Blessed Mother.

          If you have the chance to visit the cathedral again it is well worth the trip—the paintings by Duveneck, the wood work in the sanctuary, the baldachino, the organs, the stained glass windows, the Stations of the Cross; everything adds to the spiritual experience. Celebrate our Blessed Mother in the quiet splendor that is our basilica of the Assumption.

       Sr. Nancy Kordenbrock, OSB