Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help
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Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help

4.7
·341 reviews·, United States

A magnificent Neo-Gothic basilica, a spiritual sanctuary and architectural marvel dedicated to Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
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Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Best Time

Weekday mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A magnificent Neo-Gothic basilica, a spiritual sanctuary and architectural marvel dedicated to Our Lady of Perpetual Help.

4.7
(341 reviews)

"A beautiful church that caters to a variety of parishioners with masses in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese."

Vertical photo
TIP

Dress Respectfully

Modest attire is appreciated out of respect for this sacred space. :dress:

Check Mass Schedules

Be aware of Mass times to avoid disrupting services. :clock1:

Third hero image

Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Stunning Main Altar

Stunning Main Altar

Upper Church

Marvel at the intricate details and soaring architecture of the main altar, a focal point of devotion and artistic splendor.

Icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help

Upper Church

Gaze upon the revered icon, a powerful symbol of faith and a source of comfort for many pilgrims.

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

Exterior and Interior

Admire the impressive Neo-Gothic architecture, a testament to faith and craftsmanship that inspires awe.

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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit for Serenity

To experience the Basilica's grandeur without the crowds, aim for weekday mornings. Weekends, especially during Mass, can be busy. Consider visiting outside of major holidays for a more peaceful exploration of this architectural gem.

Understanding the Devotion

The Basilica is a significant site for devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Visitors often come for prayer and reflection. Be mindful of ongoing services and respect the sacred atmosphere of this active place of worship.

Best Times

When
Weekday mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful atmosphere
Crowd
Low
When
Afternoon on weekdays
Why
Good for quiet reflection
Crowd
Medium

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

WHO is Our Lady of Perpetual Help? ☦️🙏 Father Chris explains the meaning and story behind Our Lady and this particular icon. #byzantine #ourlady #ourladyofperpetualhelp #mary #mothermary #byzantinecatholic #easterncatholic #catholic #catholicism #catholictiktok #catholicsoftiktok #orthodox #orthodoxchristianity #orthodoxchristian #orthodoxy #russianorthodox #greekorthodox #anglican #protestant #pe...
@ourladyofperpetualhelpnm
32K likes • 296.7K views

Dress Respectfully

Modest attire is appreciated out of respect for this sacred space. :dress: Instagram

Check Mass Schedules

Be aware of Mass times to avoid disrupting services. :clock1: Instagram

Every July in Williamsburg, Brooklyn, over 100 men come together at @olmcfeast to lift and carry the Giglio, a massive 70-foot-tall tower that weighs around 4 tons. It’s the centerpiece of the Our Lady of Mount Carmel Feast, a tradition brought to the neighborhood by Italian immigrants in the late 1800s. The lifters, moving in sync to a live band, and move the Giglio through the streets.
@newyorknico
22K likes • 311.6K views
Basilica pilgrimage across the United States Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Brooklyn, New York #catholic #basilica #ourladyofperpetualhelp
thegradyconnolly
760 likes • 7.4K views

Embrace the Peace

Take time for quiet prayer and reflection in this comforting environment. :pray: Reddit

Explore the Icon's Story

Learn about the history and significance of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help icon. :book: TikTok

Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help ⛪️🙏🙏🙏❤️ Boston, Massachusetts.
catholic.churches
47 likes • 407 views

Tips

from all over the internet

Dress Respectfully

Modest attire is appreciated out of respect for this sacred space. :dress: Instagram

Check Mass Schedules

Be aware of Mass times to avoid disrupting services. :clock1: Instagram

Embrace the Peace

Take time for quiet prayer and reflection in this comforting environment. :pray: Reddit

Explore the Icon's Story

Learn about the history and significance of the Our Lady of Perpetual Help icon. :book: TikTok

What Travellers Say

4.7
(341 reviews)

Reviews Summary

Visitors praise the Basilica's stunning architecture and the welcoming nature of its priests and staff, often describing it as a comforting and inspirational place. Some note that English masses are held in the lower church, which is less ornate than the upper sanctuary, leading to a slight disappointment for some.

"Our neighborhood church that has some of the nicest priests. My only critique is that the English mass is in the bottom church. While still beautiful, it doesn't compare to the beauty of the upper church. I find it a bit unfair."

Manny G

"A beautiful church that caters to a variety of parishioners with masses in English, Spanish, "Chinese" (I assume Cantonese?), and Vietnamese."

Christopher Adams

"I'm starting to go to this church and it's quite nice, it's big and very comforting. It is a bit far from where I live but it is worth it. If you have the opportunity to visit, do it, you will love it."

S F

What People Like

Beautiful architecture
Kind priests and staff
Comforting atmosphere

What People Dislike

English mass in lower church

Frequently Asked Questions

🚇 🗺️ Getting There

The Basilica is accessible via public transportation. The nearest subway stations are the 59th Street–Columbus Circle (A, C, B, D, 1, 2, 3, N, Q, R, W) and 57th Street–7th Avenue (N, Q, R, W) stations. Several bus lines also serve the area. :subway: Instagram+1

Street parking can be challenging in this busy neighborhood. It's often recommended to use public transport or rideshare services. :car: Instagram

Yes, there is also a Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Boston, Massachusetts. Ensure you are looking for the correct location based on your travel plans. :map: Instagram

For ease and to avoid parking hassles, taking the subway is highly recommended. It's a central location in Brooklyn. :train2: Instagram

The Basilica is located at 59th Street and 5th Avenue in Brooklyn. It's a prominent landmark in the neighborhood. :round_pushpin: Instagram

🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry

General entry to the Basilica for prayer and sightseeing is typically free. However, special events or tours may require tickets. :ticket: Reddit

The Basilica is generally open daily, but hours can vary, especially around Mass times and holidays. It's best to check their official website or call ahead for the most up-to-date information. :clock1: Reddit

No, there is no admission fee for regular visits. Donations are always welcome to help maintain the beautiful church. :heart: Reddit

Yes, Masses are held regularly in various languages, including English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. Check the schedule for specific times. :church: InstagramReddit

While not always advertised, sometimes staff are available to offer insights, especially if you visit during off-peak hours. It's worth inquiring upon arrival. :walking: Reddit

🎫 ⛪ Onsite Experience

The atmosphere is generally peaceful and reverent, with many visitors coming for prayer and reflection. The architecture itself is awe-inspiring. :sparkles: InstagramReddit

Yes, the Basilica serves a diverse community with Masses offered in English, Spanish, and Vietnamese, and potentially Cantonese. :globewithmeridians: Reddit

Photography is usually permitted for personal use, but it's important to be discreet and avoid flash photography, especially during services. :camera: Instagram

The main church is generally accessible, but it's advisable to contact the Basilica directly for specific accessibility information regarding ramps or elevators. :wheelchair:

The icon is a revered image in Catholic tradition, believed to be miraculous and a source of intercession and comfort. :pray: TikTok+1

🍽️ 🍽️ Food & Dining

The Basilica is located in a vibrant Brooklyn neighborhood with numerous restaurants, cafes, and delis offering a variety of cuisines. :forkandknife: Instagram

Food and drink are generally not permitted inside the sacred spaces of the Basilica to maintain its sanctity. :noentrysign:

You'll find everything from casual pizza joints and delis to more formal dining options in the surrounding area. :pizza: Instagram

Exploring the local eateries in the Williamsburg area will offer authentic New York and diverse culinary experiences. :hamburger:

Absolutely! There are many quick-service options nearby for a convenient meal. :sandwich:

📸 📸 Photography

The main altar, stained-glass windows, and the Icon of Our Lady of Perpetual Help are prime subjects. The overall architecture is also very photogenic. :camerawithflash: Instagram+1

Tripods might be restricted, especially during services, to avoid obstruction and maintain reverence. It's best to check with staff. : tripod:

Avoid flash photography, especially during Mass or prayer services. Be mindful of other visitors and maintain a respectful demeanor. :no_flash:

Weekday mornings or afternoons, when natural light streams through the windows, can offer beautiful photographic opportunities. :sunwithface:

The soaring ceilings, intricate carvings, and the grand organ are all visually striking elements. :church: Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Basilica's grandeur can captivate children, offering a visually stimulating experience. While the main church is for quiet reflection, the sheer scale and architectural details can be fascinating. Consider visiting during off-peak hours to allow children to explore without disturbing services. Reddit

Be sure to explain the importance of respectful behavior in a place of worship. The surrounding neighborhood also offers family-friendly dining options for a post-visit treat. Instagram

🙏 Devout Catholics

For devout Catholics, the Basilica is a pilgrimage site, especially for those devoted to Our Lady of Perpetual Help. Attending Mass in one of the various languages offered can be a deeply spiritual experience. InstagramReddit

Take time for personal prayer and reflection, particularly before the revered icon. The opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation is also available, adding to the spiritual richness of a visit. TikTok

🏛️ Architecture Enthusiasts

The Neo-Gothic architecture of the Basilica is a major draw. Admire the intricate details, soaring ceilings, and the impressive organ. The play of light through the stained-glass windows offers beautiful photographic opportunities. Instagram+1

Pay attention to the craftsmanship and the overall design that contributes to the basilica's majestic and awe-inspiring atmosphere. It's a prime example of religious architecture that appeals to both the faithful and lovers of art and design. Reddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

The Architectural Marvel

The Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help is a stunning example of Neo-Gothic architecture. Its imposing facade and intricate interior details are a testament to the craftsmanship of its era. Visitors often remark on the sheer scale and beauty of the building, noting its soaring ceilings, ornate carvings, and beautiful stained-glass windows. The grand organ is also a notable feature, adding to the basilica's majestic presence. Instagram+1

Many find the interior particularly awe-inspiring, with the main altar serving as a breathtaking focal point. The design encourages a sense of reverence and wonder, making it a popular spot for both religious pilgrims and architecture enthusiasts. The combination of spiritual significance and artistic grandeur makes it a must-see for anyone visiting the area. Reddit+1

Devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help

The Basilica is a significant center for devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help, a revered icon in Catholic tradition. This icon is believed to be miraculous and is a source of comfort, strength, and hope for many faithful. Visitors often come to pray before the icon, seeking intercession and spiritual guidance. TikTok+1

The devotion is deeply ingrained in the community, with prayers and novenas often held at the Basilica. The icon itself is a powerful symbol, and its presence contributes to the sacred and peaceful atmosphere of the church. Understanding the importance of this devotion can enhance a visitor's appreciation for the Basilica's spiritual significance. TikTok+1

A Community Hub

Beyond its religious function, the Basilica of Our Lady of Perpetual Help serves as a vital community hub. It caters to a diverse congregation, offering Masses in multiple languages, including English, Spanish, and Vietnamese. This inclusivity makes it a welcoming space for people from various backgrounds. Reddit

The church also plays a role in local traditions and events, sometimes associated with cultural festivals. Its presence enriches the neighborhood, providing a spiritual anchor and a gathering place for residents. The staff are often noted for their kindness and willingness to welcome visitors, even outside of regular hours. TikTokReddit

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