Nestled in the heart of Charleston, West Virginia, the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart stands as a beacon of faith, history, and architectural splendor. This magnificent structure, along with the Cathedral of St. Joseph in Wheeling, serves as the seat of the Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. Recognized as a contributing property in the Downtown Charleston Historic District, this basilica is a testament to the rich religious and cultural heritage of the region.
The journey of Sacred Heart Parish began in the mid-19th century. The first Catholic priest to visit the area now known as West Virginia arrived in 1832. By 1836, Rev. Alexander L. Hitzelberger from Norfolk, Virginia, celebrated Mass in the Charleston courthouse. The establishment of the Diocese of Wheeling by Pope Pius IX on July 19, 1850, marked a significant milestone, and various priests continued to visit the region occasionally.
In 1862, Rev. Stenger settled in Charleston, but his ministry was briefly interrupted by the Civil War. He returned in 1866, celebrating Mass on the second floor of B. Ward's store on Front Street. The official establishment of Sacred Heart Parish took place on August 1, 1866, when Bishop Richard Vincent Whelan purchased the Dunbar property. Initially, a two-story brick building served as both church and school, and in 1869, a frame church was constructed for $1,500. This modest structure laid the foundation for what would become a grand architectural marvel.
By 1885, the congregation had outgrown its humble beginnings, and Father Stenger began collecting funds for a new church. With the support of prominent Protestants and the local Catholic community, the construction of the new church commenced. By Christmas 1897, the first Mass was celebrated in the present church building, a testament to the dedication and faith of its parishioners.
Following Father Stenger's death in 1900, Capuchin friars took over the ministry at Sacred Heart in 1901. They made significant additions to the church, including a new rectory in 1902 and a pipe organ in 1905. The marble high altar and stained glass windows from Munich, Germany, added in 1909, enhanced the church's beauty. The three bells placed in the tower in 1911, named St. Richard, St. Joseph, and the Blessed Virgin, further enriched the church's spiritual ambiance.
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On October 4, 1974, Pope Paul VI elevated Sacred Heart Church to the status of a co-cathedral, renaming the Diocese of Wheeling as the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston. This transformation marked a new chapter in the church's history. The Capuchins left the parish in 1980, and Rev. Edward Sadie became the cathedral's rector.
The 1980s saw extensive renovations and building projects. The Growth In Faith Together capital fund drive facilitated the renovation of the cathedral, including the installation of air-conditioning, cleaning and repairing stained glass windows, and the addition of a Schantz 58-rank, three-manual pipe organ. The purchase of the former Kanawha Valley Hospital building allowed for the construction of a parking lot, and in 1985, the John XXIII Pastoral Center was dedicated. New furnishings, including a Bishop's Chair, Ambo, and Altar, were created by furniture maker Edward Hillenbrand, and the cathedral was dedicated in 1988 by Bishop Francis B. Schulte.
The 1990s and early 2000s brought further developments. The parish purchased Riverview Terrace for elderly housing, collaborated with First Presbyterian Church to construct Habitat for Humanity houses, and remodeled the Cenacle Retreat property into the Cordis Center. The cathedral underwent additional renovations, including the addition of a new gathering space.
On November 9, 2009, Pope Benedict XVI elevated Sacred Heart to the dignity of a minor basilica, recognizing its historical and spiritual significance. This honor cemented the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart's status as a vital religious and cultural landmark in Charleston.
Education has always been a cornerstone of Sacred Heart Parish. The first school opened in 1866, and despite periods of instability, the commitment to education persisted. The Sisters of St. Joseph and later the Franciscan Sisters of Penance and Christian Charity played pivotal roles in the school's development. A new school building opened in 1920, followed by the establishment of Charleston Catholic High School in 1941. Over the years, the school expanded, adding new facilities and programs to meet the needs of its students.
In the 1980s and 1990s, the school continued to grow, with the construction of a new playground and the renovation of Seton Hall. A significant fund drive in the 1990s facilitated the construction of a new science wing for the high school, ensuring that Sacred Heart's educational mission would continue to thrive.
In conclusion, the Basilica of the Co-Cathedral of the Sacred Heart is not just a place of worship; it is a symbol of faith, resilience, and community. Its rich history, architectural beauty, and commitment to education make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Charleston, West Virginia. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, the basilica offers a profound and enriching experience that will leave a lasting impression.
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