America's Largest Catholic Newspaper
New York City has changed dramatically in the last one hundred and thirty five years. But, one place has remained constant—Saint Patrick’s Cathedral,” writes Cardinal Dolan in the first chapter of the coffee-table book “Saint Patrick’s Cathedral: The Legacy of America’s Parish Church.”
The book, released Dec. 1, was published by Èditions du Signe and edited by Kate Monaghan, assistant communications director for the archdiocese and communications director for the Cathedral Restoration Campaign. The 144-page hardcover is dedicated to those who have generously given in support of the restoration of St. Patrick’s Cathedral.
Cardinal Dolan wrote the first of the eight chapters, “From Archbishop John Hughes to Cardinal John Farley: How Saint Patrick’s Was Built.” It was a fitting topic for the 10th archbishop of New York, considering he is a well-versed Church historian.
Among the many facts the cardinal includes is information on the dedication of the cathedral on May 25, 1879. In a unique twist, a memento for readers is included—a reproduction of a ticket from that solemn dedication ceremony.
The book is filled with other keepsake items such as ticket reproductions for special cathedral events, a Christmas music program from 1895 and historic postcards, including two spectacular ones from 1908 and 1910. Takeaway items are spread throughout and each adds flair and drama to the already captivating book. Topics covered include musical traditions, the contributions of immigrants, papal visits and the recent restoration, among other fascinating insights and peeks into the cathedral.
A booklet of photographs from Pope Francis’ Sept. 24 visit to the cathedral for Vespers is tucked into the inside back cover. Two posters include one of architectural drawings of the cathedral and another of the New York Times piece covering Archbishop Hughes’ speech to draft rioters, July 18, 1863.
Other writers include those local and closely familiar with the cathedral such as Dr. Jennifer Pascual, director of music at the cathedral, and Msgr. Robert Ritchie, cathedral rector. Also contributing are Auxiliary Bishop Robert Barron of Los Angeles, founder of Word on Fire Ministries and host of the Catholicism film series; and Cardinal Edwin O’Brien, former New York priest and bishop who is now Grand Master of the Equestrian Order of the Holy Sepulchre of Jerusalem.
The book is filled with interesting facts about the cathedral including an entire chapter written by the editor on the “Secrets of the Attic.” There are also fun tidbits. For instance, in the chapter on the restoration, readers learn that Msgr. Ritchie took the required NYC Department of Buildings scaffolding training course—and stood at the top of the cathedral’s 350-foot North Tower.
Cost: $40. The book is available in English and Spanish, and can be purchased at the cathedral gift shop or online at: http://stpatscathedralgiftshop.com/
