Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist - statue in front of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Lafayetta, Louisiana
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Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

4.6
·265 reviews·Milwaukee, United States

A neoclassical architectural gem with stunning stained glass, rich history, and a welcoming spiritual atmosphere for all.

Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

Social content

Social

From TikTok & Reddit

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
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Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist - statue in front of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist in Lafayetta, Louisiana

Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

Best Time

Weekday Mornings

Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration

CrowdLow
Highlights

Highlights

Must-see attractions

A neoclassical architectural gem with stunning stained glass, rich history, and a welcoming spiritual atmosphere for all.

4.6
(265 reviews)

"It is truly a holy place. Visit no matter your faith - you are welcome in this house of God."

Vertical photo
TIP

🚗 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:

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Highlights

Discover the most iconic attractions and experiences

Architectural Grandeur

Architectural Grandeur

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

Instagram
Stained-Glass Windows

Stained-Glass Windows

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

TikTok
Art and Relics

Art and Relics

Discover real relics of the twelve apostles and unique artistic expressions, including a notable crucifix.

Reddit
Sculptural Masterpiece

Sculptural Masterpiece

View a remarkable sculpture created over 13 years by artist Simon Verity, adding a personal touch to the cathedral's art.

TikTok
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Planning Your Visit

Timing Your Visit

While the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is open year-round, consider visiting during weekdays to avoid larger crowds. If you're interested in experiencing a mass, check the schedule in advance, as services can be quite special with beautiful music and singing. Reddit

Exploring the Grounds

Beyond the stunning architecture, the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist boasts gorgeous grounds and gardens. Some visitors also highlight the well-maintained graveyard as a point of interest, offering a unique perspective on the site's history. TikTok

Best Times

When
Weekday Mornings
Why
Fewer crowds, peaceful exploration
Crowd
Low
When
During Organ Concerts
Why
Enjoy free, beautiful music
Crowd
Medium
When
Special Services
Why
Experience reverent masses & music
Crowd
High

Insider Tips

from TikTok, Instagram & Reddit

My first stop on this trip to NYC was to the cathedral of St John the Divine to view a piece of sculpture that took my father Simon Verity 13 years to finish. #nyc #history #london #fyp
@johnoverity
84K likes • 401K views

🚗 Street Parking Hassles

Weekday street parking can be tricky; plan your arrival time accordingly for weekday masses. Reddit :car:

🎶 Free Organ Concerts

Don't miss the free organ concerts offered, a delightful bonus to your visit. Reddit :musical_score:

Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is one the best maintained graveyards in the state. A very beautiful cathedral that’s not on the radar for a lot of people passing by. #cathedral #catholic #cajun #louisiana #graveyard #cemetery #gothic #southerngothic #goth
@black.lris
40.3K likes • 280.8K views
A little taste of Cajun music and religion in Lafaytete. This is the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist Have you been to Lafayette? #LafayetteTravel #tbexlafayette #Cathedrals #lafayette #louisiana
loyaltytravels
37 likes • 1.2K views

🙏 All Faiths Welcome

Visitors of all faiths are welcome to explore and experience the spiritual atmosphere. Reddit :pray:

🌿 Explore the Grounds

Take time to wander the gorgeous grounds and gardens surrounding the cathedral. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

reddit.com

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. Reddit :car:

🎶 Free Organ Concerts

Don't miss the free organ concerts offered, a delightful bonus to your visit. Reddit :musical_score:

🙏 All Faiths Welcome

Visitors of all faiths are welcome to explore and experience the spiritual atmosphere. Reddit :pray:

🌿 Explore the Grounds

Take time to wander the gorgeous grounds and gardens surrounding the cathedral. Reddit :evergreen_tree:

✨ Check Mass Times

If attending mass, check the schedule beforehand for special services and timings. Reddit :calendar:

What Travellers Say

4.6
(265 reviews)

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

Beautiful architecture
Stunning stained glass
Reverent mass atmosphere

What People Dislike

Weekday parking challenges

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. Instagram

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. Reddit

Absolutely! The cathedral welcomes visitors of all faiths and backgrounds who wish to appreciate its historical and architectural significance. Reddit

The grounds are generally accessible, offering beautiful gardens and a well-maintained graveyard for exploration. TikTokReddit

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. Instagram

🎫 🎫 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. Reddit

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. Reddit

While not always explicitly advertised, inquire at the cathedral about potential guided tours that can offer deeper insights into its history and art. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

The graveyard is part of the cathedral grounds and is generally accessible without a separate admission fee. TikTok

🎫 ✨ Onsite Experience

Inside, don't miss the stunning stained-glass windows, the unique crucifix above the altar, and any displayed relics of the apostles. Reddit

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. Reddit

The sculpture by Simon Verity is a significant artistic piece within the cathedral, notable for the extensive time dedicated to its creation. TikTok

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. Instagram

Masses are described as special, reverent, and often enhanced by beautiful music and singing, creating a deeply spiritual atmosphere. Reddit

📸 📸 Photography

Capture the exterior's neoclassical beauty, the intricate details of the stained-glass windows, and the serene atmosphere of the grounds and gardens. TikTokInstagram

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. Reddit

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. Instagram

Drone usage is typically restricted in urban areas and around religious institutions. Always check local regulations before flying a drone. TikTok

Golden hour, shortly after sunrise or before sunset, can provide beautiful lighting for exterior shots, highlighting the brickwork and architectural features. Instagram

For Different Travelers

Tailored advice for your travel style

👨‍👩‍👧 Families with Kids

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist offers a blend of history and beauty that can engage families. While the solemnity of a mass might require children to be on their best behavior, the architectural details and stained-glass windows can be fascinating visual points of interest. Instagram Consider visiting during a time when services are not in session to allow for more relaxed exploration of the main sanctuary and grounds. Reddit

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. TikTok While not a typical playground, the historical and visual richness of the cathedral provides a unique educational outing. Reddit

🙏 Spiritual Seekers

For those seeking a spiritual experience, the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is a significant destination. Attending a mass is highly recommended, with visitors consistently praising the reverent atmosphere, beautiful music, and singing. Reddit The presence of real relics of the twelve apostles offers a tangible connection to the historical roots of the Catholic faith, adding a profound dimension to the visit. Reddit

The cathedral is described as a holy place where visitors of all faiths are welcome. Reddit 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. Reddit

🏛️ History & Architecture Buffs

History and architecture enthusiasts will find much to admire at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist. The neoclassical 19th-century brick church with its 1893 clock tower is a prime example of the era's architectural style. Instagram Take time to appreciate the stained-glass windows, each telling a story through its intricate design and vibrant colors. TikTok

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. TikTokReddit 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. TikTokReddit

Deep Dives

In-depth insights and expert knowledge

Architectural Significance

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist stands as a testament to neoclassical 19th-century architecture, characterized by its distinctive brick construction. A prominent feature is its 1893 clock tower, which adds to the cathedral's imposing silhouette. The interior is equally impressive, with stained-glass windows that cast colorful light throughout the sanctuary, creating a serene and awe-inspiring atmosphere for visitors. TikTokInstagram

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. TikTok 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. Reddit

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. TikTokReddit

Experiencing Mass and Music

Attending a mass at the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is described by visitors as a deeply special and reverent experience. The services are often elevated by beautiful music, songs, and a choir, creating a powerful spiritual ambiance. Reddit Even for those not of the Catholic faith, the opportunity to witness and participate in a mass is considered a unique cultural and spiritual immersion. Reddit

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. Reddit The presence of a choir during some masses further enhances the auditory experience, making it a memorable part of a visit. Reddit

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. Reddit While the spiritual aspect is paramount, the musical talent on display is consistently praised, making it a highlight for many visitors. Reddit

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