One pilgrimage Catholics often overlook is visiting the chief church of their diocese — the cathedral.
“The cathedral is spiritually unique in each diocese because it is the seat of the diocese, the location of the main shepherd — the bishop — and the locus of his authority,” explains Nell Andrzejewski, director of Catholic Church Tours.
From the cathedral, each bishop conducts worship and teaches for the whole Christian community in his diocese. The church is chosen by the local bishop for the cathedral, the seat of his authority passed down directly from Jesus and the apostles. There are 193 cathedrals (including co-cathedrals) of the Latin Rite and 20 of the Eastern Rite in the United States.
“Usually, it also holds a higher place in its visual forms of art and architecture as well, so that, too, draws people to visit,” adds Andrzejewski, who also hosts EWTN’s Hidden Gems: Catholic Shrines in America. “Some cathedrals are entirely breathtaking, and all put forward something of the best that the local Church can offer for love of Jesus and neighbor.”
To prepare for the pilgrimage, Andrzejewski suggests that “some quick pre-reflection can really help you enjoy the visit and bring down some
