Cathedral of Saint Joseph

The Cathedral of Saint Joseph in Wheeling, West Virginia, is a stunning architectural and spiritual landmark that has stood as a beacon of faith and history for nearly two centuries. As the seat of the bishop of the Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, this cathedral not only serves as a house of worship but also as a testament to the rich heritage and enduring spirit of the local Catholic community.

The Historical Tapestry of the Cathedral of Saint Joseph

Established in 1822, the Cathedral of Saint Joseph is the oldest Catholic parish in Wheeling. Its journey began when the church was initially located further south and was known as Saint James the Apostle. In 1850, it was designated as the cathedral of the newly established Diocese of Wheeling by Pope Pius IX, with Bishop Richard V. Whelan as its first bishop. The cathedral's name was changed to Saint Joseph in 1872, reflecting the growing devotion to Saint Joseph, Husband of Mary, and the burgeoning labor movement among the Catholics in the coal fields.

The cathedral we see today owes much of its grandeur to a serendipitous event in 1923 when a fire significantly damaged the original structure. This misfortune paved the way for Bishop John Joseph Swint to commission a new cathedral, designed by the talented architect Edward J. Weber. Completed in just three years, the new Cathedral of Saint Joseph was dedicated on April 21, 1926, a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its congregation.

Architectural Marvels and Artistic Treasures

The Cathedral of Saint Joseph is a masterpiece of Neo-Romanesque architecture. Its design draws inspiration from several Italian churches, including San Pietro in Toscanella and the cathedral in Prato near Florence. The exterior of the cathedral is characterized by its fortress-like appearance, with two turrets flanking a rose window on the main facade. The dome, rising 148 feet above the crossing, is reminiscent of the dome of the cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore in Florence.

One of the most striking features of the cathedral's exterior is the sculpture in the tympanum of the main doorway, depicting Christ in Majesty. This work, along with the carved symbols of the Four Evangelists around the wheel window, was created by the talented sculptor Francis Aretz. The statue of Saint Joseph standing above the main entrance serves as a reminder of the cathedral's patron saint.

The interior of the cathedral is equally breathtaking. The colorful and intricate design is inspired by the Medieval Byzantine style. The primary dome is adorned with a depiction of heaven, while the half-dome of the apse features the stunning mural Enthroned Christ and the Communion of the Saints, painted by Felix B. Lieftuchter. The medieval-style stained glass windows, designed by George W. Sotter, add to the cathedral's ethereal beauty.

The long, broad nave is covered with a barrel vault decorated with colorfully painted trompe l'oeil coffers. At the center of the cathedral stands a free-standing ciborium, protecting the marble high altar on which the tabernacle rests. This feature is typical of Lombard Romanesque churches and adds to the cathedral's historical charm.

Modern Renovations and Restorations

Over the years, the Cathedral of Saint Joseph has undergone several renovations to preserve its beauty and adapt to contemporary liturgical needs. In 1973, under the guidance of Bishop Joseph Hodges, the fifth Bishop of Wheeling, the cathedral was renovated to comply with the norms set by the Second Vatican Council. These changes included moving the main altar forward and centering it under the dome, removing the original ambo and communion rail, and reorienting the side pews to face the central altar.

In 1995-1996, Bishop Bernard W. Schmitt, the seventh Bishop of Wheeling-Charleston, oversaw extensive renovations and restorations. These efforts included cleaning and conserving the murals, restoring the stained glass windows, and updating the heating, cooling, electrical, lighting, and sound systems. The construction of new liturgical furnishings, a new baptismal fountain, and the restoration of the floor tile and slate on the altar platforms were also part of this comprehensive project.

More recently, under the leadership of Bishop Michael J. Bransfield, a new period of restoration began in 2006. This phase focused on repairing the church's roof and external windows, ensuring a watertight structure, and restoring the original furnishings of the upper sanctuary. The restoration of the stained glass windows has been an ongoing effort, along with smaller restorations of the side altars and church furnishings. Significant works carried out in 2012 included installing a new marble floor, altar, and ambo in the sanctuary, as well as restoring the pews throughout the church.

The Adjacent Rectory and Campus Reorganization

Adjacent to the cathedral is the rectory, a three-story, five-bay house built in the Gothic revival style in 1920. This brick structure, set on a stone foundation and capped with a mansard roof with dormers, features plain brackets under the eaves and a wood-carved double entrance flanked by columns with decorative stone carvings. The third floor boasts Gothic-arched tracery windows and a balcony with decorative stonework, adding to the building's historical charm.

In 2011, the diocese initiated a major reorganization project for the cathedral's campus. This project aimed to address the diocese's growing needs and included closing the existing elementary school due to low enrollment and renovating the building into a new chancery. The reorganization also involved creating a community central courtyard and a garden dedicated to the Virgin Mary, enhancing the sense of place and worship. A new fountain in the courtyard adds elements of movement and sound, creating an inviting and serene gathering area for the community.

In conclusion, the Cathedral of Saint Joseph in Wheeling, West Virginia, is more than just a place of worship; it is a historical and architectural gem that stands as a testament to the enduring faith and resilience of its congregation. With its rich history, stunning architecture, and ongoing efforts to preserve and enhance its beauty, the cathedral continues to be a beacon of inspiration and a cherished landmark in the heart of Wheeling.