Basilica of Saint Adalbert

History & Significance

Basilica · Est. Present church built 1907-1913 (cornerstone laid August 18, 1907); parish roots to 1872

The Basilica of St. Adalbert in Grand Rapids, Michigan, grew out of the city's Polish Catholic community, whose St. Adalbert Aid Society formed in 1872 to help Polish immigrants. The present Romanesque Revival church, designed by architect Henry J. Harks of Cleveland with Grand Rapids architect Chris Vierheilig supervising, was built from 1907 to 1913. On August 22, 1979, Pope John Paul II elevated it to a minor basilica, the first church so dedicated in Michigan. It remains an active parish of the Diocese of Grand Rapids.

Romanesque Revival, with twin towers and a large central dome; stained glass from Munich, Germany

• •Designated a minor basilica by Pope John Paul II on August 22, 1979
• •First church in Michigan to be solemnly dedicated as a minor basilica
• •Parish of the Diocese of Grand Rapids, rooted in the city's Polish Catholic community (St. Adalbert Aid Society, 1872)
• •Present church built 1907-1913, designed by Henry J. Harks of Cleveland
• •Central dome rises about 150 feet; twin facade towers stand 134 feet