Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist stands as a beacon of history, faith, and architectural splendor in the heart of Milwaukee, Wisconsin. This iconic structure, with its distinctive German Renaissance Revival style, has been a cornerstone of the city's spiritual and cultural life since its establishment in 1837. Nestled just east of Cathedral Square Park, the cathedral's towering presence and storied past make it a must-visit destination for tourists and locals alike.

A Glimpse into History

The roots of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist trace back to the early days of Milwaukee's first Roman Catholic congregation. Initially, the faithful gathered at St. Peter's Church, but as the community grew, the need for a larger, more permanent place of worship became evident. Enter Archbishop John Henni, who purchased the land for the cathedral in 1844. The cornerstone was laid on December 5, 1847, and after five years of dedicated effort and nearly $30,000 in funds, the cathedral was completed in 1852. It was dedicated to John the Evangelist, marking the beginning of its long and illustrious journey.

Architectural Marvel

The cathedral's design, crafted by architect Victor Schulte, is a testament to the nineteenth-century Zopfstil, or pigtail style. This architectural approach, characterized by its reaction against the ornate Baroque style, is evident in the cathedral's dignified and simplistic lower main block and flat pilasters. The use of Cream City brick, a distinct light-colored brick found locally, adds to the building's unique charm. Schulte's design also extends to two other notable Milwaukee churches: St. Mary's on North Broadway and Holy Trinity at Walker's Point.

The cathedral's three-stage tower is a fascinating blend of history and architectural evolution. The first stage, up to the clocks, remains true to Schulte's original 1840s design, while the sections above were reimagined in 1893 by prominent Milwaukee architects George Ferry and Alfred Clas. The result is a taller, more intricate tower that adds a touch of grandeur to the overall structure.

Trials by Fire

The Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist has faced its share of challenges, most notably a devastating fire in January 1935. The blaze ravaged the nave and chancel areas, destroying precious stained glass windows, mural paintings, and a valuable pipe organ. The intense heat even caused the roof to cave in, severely damaging the outside walls. However, the tower, thanks to the heroic efforts of Fire Chief Peter Steinkellner, remained intact. Through resilience and determination, the cathedral was rebuilt and ready for midnight mass by Christmas Eve of 1942.

Stained Glass and Sacred Spaces

One of the cathedral's most captivating features is its collection of thirteen large hand-cut stained glass windows, crafted by the T.C. Esser Company of Milwaukee and designed by Erhardt Stoettner. These windows, with their intricate designs and vibrant colors, add a sense of reverence and beauty to the sanctuary. At the heart of the cathedral lies a large tomb-shaped baptismal pool and marble font, symbolizing the sacred rites and traditions upheld within its walls.

Modern Renovations and Controversy

In 2002, the cathedral underwent a significant and controversial renovation. Spearheaded by Archbishop Rembert Weakland, the project aimed to modernize the cathedral's interior while preserving its historic essence. Liturgical consultant Richard S. Vosko was brought in to plan the renovation, which included the dismantling of the historic High Altar and Baldacchino in the apse, replaced by organ pipes. The sanctuary and altar were moved forward into the nave, crowned with a striking fiberglass crucifix designed by Italian sculptors Arnaldo Pomodoro and Giuseppe Maraniell. This crucifix, topped with a fourteen-foot diameter crown of thorns, hovers dramatically over the figure of Christ.

The renovation sparked a vocal opposition among some parishioners, who petitioned the Vatican to halt the changes. Despite the controversy, the project was completed, and the cathedral was rededicated on February 9, 2002.

A Living Landmark

Today, the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist stands as a living landmark, celebrating its rich history and embracing its role in the modern world. In 1997, the cathedral celebrated its 150th anniversary, a testament to its enduring presence in the community. The addition of a gated garden and atrium in 2001 further enhanced its appeal, providing a serene space for reflection and contemplation.

Visitors to the cathedral can immerse themselves in its storied past, marvel at its architectural beauty, and experience the spiritual solace it offers. Whether you're a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or simply seeking a moment of peace, the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist is a destination that promises to inspire and captivate.