Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
A neoclassical architectural gem with stunning stained glass, rich history, and a welcoming spiritual atmosphere for all.

Highlights
Must-see attractions

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Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist
Best Time
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

Highlights
Must-see attractions
A neoclassical architectural gem with stunning stained glass, rich history, and a welcoming spiritual atmosphere for all.
"It is truly a holy place. Visit no matter your faith - you are welcome in this house of God."
🚗 Street Parking Hassles
Weekday street parking can be tricky; plan your arrival time accordingly for weekday masses. :car:
🎶 Free Organ Concerts
Don't miss the free organ concerts offered, a delightful bonus to your visit. :musical_score:
Highlights
Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur
Admire the neoclassical brickwork and impressive 1893 clock tower of this historic religious landmark.

Stained-Glass Windows
Be captivated by the intricate beauty and vibrant colors of the cathedral's stunning stained-glass windows.

Art and Relics
Discover real relics of the twelve apostles and unique artistic expressions, including a notable crucifix.
Sculptural Masterpiece
View a remarkable sculpture created over 13 years by artist Simon Verity, adding a personal touch to the cathedral's art.
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Planning Your Visit
Timing Your Visit
Exploring the Grounds
Best Times
Insider Tips
from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit
🚗 Street Parking Hassles
Weekday street parking can be tricky; plan your arrival time accordingly for weekday masses.
:car:🎶 Free Organ Concerts
Don't miss the free organ concerts offered, a delightful bonus to your visit.
:musical_score:🙏 All Faiths Welcome
Visitors of all faiths are welcome to explore and experience the spiritual atmosphere.
:pray:🌿 Explore the Grounds
Take time to wander the gorgeous grounds and gardens surrounding the cathedral.
:evergreen_tree:Questions for those who go to Basilica Cathedral.
Tips
from all over the internet
🚗 Street Parking Hassles
Weekday street parking can be tricky; plan your arrival time accordingly for weekday masses.
:car:🎶 Free Organ Concerts
Don't miss the free organ concerts offered, a delightful bonus to your visit.
:musical_score:🙏 All Faiths Welcome
Visitors of all faiths are welcome to explore and experience the spiritual atmosphere.
:pray:🌿 Explore the Grounds
Take time to wander the gorgeous grounds and gardens surrounding the cathedral.
:evergreen_tree:✨ Check Mass Times
If attending mass, check the schedule beforehand for special services and timings.
:calendar:What Travellers Say
Reviews Summary
Visitors consistently praise the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist for its stunning architecture, beautiful stained-glass windows, and the reverent atmosphere during masses, often enhanced by live music. Many appreciate the welcome extended to all faiths and the opportunity to see unique relics and art. Some find weekday parking challenging.
"Beautiful architecture inside, there are free organ concerts that you can enjoy when you come and visit. This year, I came there for mass of priest ordination and thanks giving of election of Pope Leo XIV. Attended mass that presided by new elected Bishop Jeffrey Grab. The mass is always special with beautiful music, songs and very reverend. Make sure that you also check out arts inside and especially real relics of the twelve apostles. Those relics show connections and apostolic of Catholic faith from the beginning till now."
Dominick Ciauw Anggara
"I went to Mass on Easter Sunday just before Pope Francis I passing. I sat in the last row in the last seat and prayed for his health. The archbishop shook my hand before I entered. It is truly a holy place. Visit no matter your faith - - you are welcome in this house of God."
Johnny Fischer
"It's been a long time since I've been, and now I regret not taking the time to go sooner! Street parking during weekday masses is a bit of a hassle so plan accordingly, otherwise the Mass and church setting are absolutely beautiful. The choir was present at our Mass and made the experience thst much better. Highly recommend!"
Mike Beffel
What People Like
What People Dislike
Frequently Asked Questions
🚇 🗺️ Getting There
The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is accessible by public transportation. Depending on your starting point, you can utilize various bus routes or subway lines. It's recommended to use a navigation app for real-time transit information.
Street parking is available near the cathedral, but it can be challenging to find, especially during weekday masses. It's advisable to arrive early or consider public transport.
Absolutely! The cathedral welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds who wish to appreciate its historical and architectural significance.
The grounds are generally accessible, offering beautiful gardens and a well-maintained graveyard for exploration.
From downtown, you can typically take a direct bus route or a combination of subway lines. Check local transit schedules for the most efficient route.
🎫 🎫 Tickets & Entry
General entry to the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is typically free, allowing visitors to admire its architecture. Special events or tours may have associated costs.
Opening hours can vary, especially for masses and special events. It's best to check the official website or contact the cathedral directly for the most up-to-date information on visiting hours.
While not always explicitly advertised, inquire at the cathedral about potential guided tours that can offer deeper insights into its history and art.
Yes, the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist holds regular masses. Visitors are welcome to attend, and the experience is often enhanced by beautiful music and singing.
The graveyard is part of the cathedral grounds and is generally accessible without a separate admission fee.
🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience
Inside, don't miss the stunning stained-glass windows, the unique crucifix above the altar, and any displayed relics of the apostles.
Yes, the cathedral often hosts free organ concerts, providing a wonderful auditory experience. Keep an eye on their schedule for other special services and events.
The sculpture by Simon Verity is a significant artistic piece within the cathedral, notable for the extensive time dedicated to its creation.
Photography policies can vary. It's generally respectful to refrain from flash photography and to be mindful of ongoing services. Inquire with staff if unsure.
Masses are described as special, reverent, and often enhanced by beautiful music and singing, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere.
📸 📸 Photography
Capture the exterior's neoclassical beauty, the intricate details of the stained-glass windows, and the serene atmosphere of the grounds and gardens.
It's best to avoid flash photography inside to respect the sanctity of the space and the worshippers. Always check for posted signs or ask staff.
A versatile lens that can handle both wide shots of the architecture and closer details of the stained glass would be ideal. A tripod might be useful for low-light conditions, but check if they are permitted.
Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around religious institutions. Always check local regulations before flying a drone.
Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots, highlighting the brickwork and architectural features.
For Different Travelers
Tailored advice for your travel style
👨👩👧 Families with Kids
Exploring the gorgeous grounds and gardens can be a pleasant activity for families, offering space to move around. The sculptural elements, like the one by Simon Verity, can spark curiosity and conversation about art and dedication. While not a typical playground, the historical and visual richness of the cathedral provides a unique educational outing.
🙏 Spiritual Seekers
The cathedral is described as a holy place where visitors of all faiths are welcome. Whether you are attending a service, participating in a prayer, or simply absorbing the sacred ambiance, the spiritual energy is palpable. The unusual and beautiful crucifix above the altar is also noted as a powerful focal point for contemplation.
🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs
The cathedral also holds historical significance through its art and relics. The sculpture by Simon Verity, a testament to artistic dedication, and the relics of the twelve apostles offer glimpses into both artistic and religious history. Exploring the grounds and gardens, as well as the graveyard, can provide further context and a deeper understanding of the site's evolution over time.
Deep Dives
In-depth insights and expert knowledge
Architectural Significance
Beyond its primary function as a place of worship, the cathedral is also recognized for its artistic elements. Notably, it houses a sculpture by Simon Verity, a piece that reportedly took the artist 13 years to complete, showcasing dedication and intricate craftsmanship. The presence of real relics of the twelve apostles further underscores its historical and spiritual importance, connecting contemporary visitors to the early days of the Catholic faith.
While the cathedral is a spiritual hub, its grounds also hold significance. Visitors often remark on the gorgeous grounds and gardens, offering a peaceful retreat. The well-maintained graveyard is also a point of interest for some, providing a historical narrative through its tombstones and monuments.
Experiencing Mass and Music
Beyond regular services, the cathedral is known for its free organ concerts. These performances offer a chance to appreciate the cathedral's acoustics and the grandeur of its organ, providing a delightful cultural experience that complements the architectural beauty. The presence of a choir during some masses further enhances the auditory experience, making it a memorable part of a visit.
For those planning to attend a mass, it's advisable to check the schedule in advance. This ensures you are aware of any special services, such as ordinations or holiday masses, which can be particularly moving. While the spiritual aspect is paramount, the musical talent on display is consistently praised, making it a highlight for many visitors.
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