Dear Parishioners

The Diocese of St. Louis was established in 1826 by Pope Leo XII, with Bishop Joseph Rosati overseeing a vast missionary territory stretching from the Louisiana border to the Rocky Mountains . In 1847, Pope Pius IX elevated St. Louis to an archdiocese, reflecting its growing importance in the region . The Catholic roots of the area date back over 350 years, beginning with the first Mass in St. Louis in 1764, on the site of the Basilica of St. Louis, King of France (Old Cathedral).

The Holy Mass of Celebration is the central liturgical event of the Archdiocese of St. Louis’ 200th Anniversary (Bicentennial Jubilee). It is a solemn, historic gathering meant to unite the entire archdiocesan community in thanksgiving, prayer, and renewal.

The Mass is the official anniversary liturgy commemorating 200 years since the founding of the Diocese of St. Louis on July 18, 1826. It is framed as a moment to:

• Give thanks for two centuries of Catholic life in the region
• Honor the missionaries, clergy, religious, and lay faithful who built the Church here
• Renew the archdiocese’s commitment to its mission going forward

When and Where

• Date: Saturday, July 18, 2026
• Time: 10:00 a.m.
• Location: Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, 4431 Lindell Blvd., St. Louis, MO

I will be attending this Mass and will bring our parishes intentions with me.  All are invited to participate in this time of prayer and thanksgiving.