St. Raphael's Cathedral

St. Raphael's Cathedral, nestled in the heart of Dubuque, Iowa, stands as a beacon of faith and history, proudly holding the title of the oldest congregation of any Christian denomination in the state of Iowa. This magnificent structure, with its towering spire and intricate architectural details, invites visitors to step back in time and explore the rich heritage of this historic parish.

The Origins of St. Raphael's Cathedral

The story of St. Raphael's Cathedral begins in July 1833 when the first group of settlers gathered for Mass in the humble home of Patrick Quigley. This initial congregation was organized into a parish by Father Charles Felix Van Quickenborne, a Belgian Jesuit. Without a dedicated church building, the early parishioners met in various homes to celebrate Mass. Father Quickenborne's plans for a church building were left unfulfilled as he departed before materials could be assembled.

In 1834, Father Charles Francis Fitzmaurice arrived and began working with the parish. He gathered materials and funds to build a church, but tragically, he succumbed to a cholera outbreak in 1835 before construction could begin. The parishioners then worshipped in a log cabin set aside for this purpose.

Father Mazzuchelli and the First Stone Church

Later in 1835, Father Samuel Charles Mazzuchelli, OP, arrived in Dubuque. He reorganized the parish and dedicated it to the Archangel Raphael. Under his guidance, a stone church was constructed, with Father Mazzuchelli himself drawing the plans. This stone church served the congregation for the next 25 years and was located just south of the current cathedral's site.

In 1837, Pope Gregory XVI created the Diocese of Dubuque, and in 1839, Bishop Mathias Loras, the first Bishop of Dubuque, arrived after recruiting priests and raising funds in France. St. Raphael's became the cathedral church for the new diocese.

Growth and Expansion

The next two decades saw significant growth and expansion for St. Raphael's Parish and the Catholic Church in Iowa. Bishop Loras encouraged Irish and German immigrants to settle in Iowa, leading to a growing congregation. By 1845, the church was often crowded on Sundays. To address the needs of the German-speaking parishioners, Bishop Loras granted permission for the formation of Holy Trinity Parish in Dubuque, which eventually became known as St. Mary's.

In 1853, St. Patrick's Church was built 12 blocks north to serve as a second parish for Irish families. However, it remained a mission of St. Raphael's to ensure the financial stability needed for building a new cathedral. Despite these efforts, it became clear that a larger building was necessary to accommodate the growing congregation.

The Present Cathedral Building

Construction of the new cathedral began in 1857 on land just north of the old stone church. The cornerstone was laid on July 5, 1857, with a large crowd in attendance. The cathedral's design was inspired by Magdalen College in Oxford, England, and was initially planned in the Romanesque Revival style. However, due to the Panic of 1857, the design was changed to the Gothic Revival style. Local architect John Mullany, who also designed New Melleray Abbey and St. Mary's Church, oversaw the construction.

Despite Bishop Loras's failing health, he managed to offer the first Mass in the new cathedral on Christmas Day, 1857. He passed away two months later. The cathedral, though incomplete, was finished in 1861 without its tower. The formal blessing and dedication were conducted by Bishop Clement Smyth, OCSO, on July 7, 1861, with Father Mazzuchelli assisting.

Architectural Highlights

St. Raphael's Cathedral is a brick structure built on a raised basement and a stone foundation. The lower part of its 130-foot central tower is made of limestone. The interior features three naves divided by fourteen clustered wooden columns. The side elevations consist of seven bays, each with a lancet window in the center. Smaller windows are located over the side altars, and three windows adorn each side of the chancel. Above the main entrance is a large lancet window, part of the original plan and visible from inside the church.

The cathedral's tower was completed in November 1876, albeit with modifications due to structural concerns. Instead of stone, the bell chamber at the top of the tower is a wooden structure encased in galvanized iron, painted to resemble stone. New entrances were added to the sides of the tower, and the main facade was covered with Portland cement to mimic stone.

Renovations and Modern Additions

Throughout its history, St. Raphael's Cathedral has undergone several renovations to preserve its beauty and functionality. Notable renovations include the addition of a chapel designed by Dubuque architect Fridolin Heer in 1882, which obscured the original stained glass windows above the altar. These windows were relocated to the new chapel, which served as the Blessed Sacrament Chapel for nearly a century.

In 1886, Chicago architect J.J. Egan oversaw further renovations, including new vaulting, replastering, and the installation of new stations of the cross imported from Germany. The frescos were completed by Luigi Gregori, an artist in residence and professor at the University of Notre Dame, and his son Constantine. The cathedral was rededicated by Bishop John Hennessy on November 21, 1886.

In 1902, a mortuary chapel was added to the lower level of the cathedral, containing vaults for the remains of former Bishops and Archbishops of Dubuque. The chapel features an altar and communion rail made of Italian marble.

Recent Renovations

The most extensive renovation in recent years took place in 1986. The Eucharistic Chapel was deconsecrated and remodeled into a gathering space known as the Cathedral Center. A new Eucharistic Chapel was created, utilizing portions of the original communion rail. The sanctuary platform was extended, and the archbishop's throne was replaced with a smaller, movable cathedra. The remains of St. Cessianus were installed in the main altar during the first Mass held in the renovated cathedral on November 23, 1986, celebrated by Archbishop Daniel Kucera, OSB.

St. Raphael's Cathedral stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its parishioners. Its rich history, stunning architecture, and ongoing commitment to serving the community make it a must-visit destination for anyone exploring Dubuque, Iowa. Whether you are drawn by its historical significance, architectural beauty, or spiritual atmosphere, St. Raphael's Cathedral offers a unique and enriching experience for all who enter its doors.