Have you heard the tale of stolen crowns and a miraculous return? It all happened right here at the Basilica of Regina Pacis. This beautiful church stands in the Bensonhurst section of Brooklyn. It serves as a beacon of faith and a testament to the power of prayer.
The Basilica of Regina Pacis is a Catholic parish church. It operates under the Roman Catholic Diocese of Brooklyn. Originally, it was built as a votive shrine within the Parish of St. Rosalia. The basilica has a rich history. It is deeply intertwined with the Italian immigrant community.
Imagine it is the 1940s. World War II raged. The pastor, Angelo R. Cioffi, stood before his congregation. He urged them to build a shrine to Mary. They would call her Queen of Peace. He sought her protection for the men fighting in the war. He also hoped for a lasting peace. The parishioners embraced this vision. They vowed to erect the church.
Ground was broken in 1948. The cornerstone was blessed in 1949. The Basilica of Regina Pacis was completed in 1950. It was built in the Italian Renaissance Revival style. The church was one of the first air-conditioned churches in America. It features marble from Italy. Two pulpits reflect Italian cathedrals. A mural adorns the 52-foot-high ceiling. It depicts the Coronation of Our Lady Regina Pacis in Heaven. The Italian artist Ignacio LaRussa painted it. He worked for three years in Rome and New York.
In 1952, the image of Mary received two diamond-studded crowns. These crowns were blessed by Pope Pius XII. But just eight days later tragedy struck. The crowns were stolen. People flocked to the Basilica of Regina Pacis. They prayed for the crowns’ return. Miraculously, a week later, the crowns were returned via mail. The parishioners believed it was a true miracle. Some say local organized crime figure Joseph Profaci helped get them back.
Over time the neighborhood changed. New immigrants arrived from Latin America and Asia. Today the Basilica of Regina Pacis offers Mass in English, Spanish, and Chinese. In 2012, the church was designated a minor basilica by Pope Benedict XVI. It was a recognition of its historical and spiritual significance.
Today the Basilica of Regina Pacis continues to serve its community. It stands as a symbol of hope and peace. It reminds us of the power of faith and the importance of community. It welcomes all. It offers solace and inspiration to those who seek it. Take a moment to appreciate the Basilica of Regina Pacis. Reflect on its history and the countless prayers offered within its walls.