Isn’t it remarkable how the Holy Ghost Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith? It is located at 1900 California Street in Denver. The Holy Ghost Catholic Church’s story began long before its current structure. Its roots trace back to 1860. That’s when St. Mary’s Cathedral, Denver’s first Catholic church, was built.
In 1905 a new downtown parish was formed. It was named Holy Ghost. They initially used the old cathedral as their worship space. The original Church of the Holy Ghost was dedicated in 1924. It is now known as the Helen Bonfils Parish Center. But the church you see now wasn’t dedicated until July 8 1943.
Jacques Benedict designed the Holy Ghost Catholic Church. The architectural style blends Italian and Spanish Renaissance elements. This makes it unique in Denver. You will notice the delicate interior details. The striking exterior contrasts with the modern glass architecture around it.
Look up at the tower. It rises 110 feet above the street. A six-foot bronze cross tops it. Narrow vaulting Renaissance windows mark the sides. Above the main entrance is a tympanum. It contains a nimbus of the Holy Ghost. Pelicans stand on either side. They symbolize the Eucharist. According to legend they fed their starving young by tearing flesh from their own breasts. Wheat and grapes border the church doors. They symbolize the gates to heaven.
Step inside the Holy Ghost Catholic Church. You will see the largest installation of colocreme travertine in the United States. Almost all of the 300 tons of marble came from Colorado. It covers the walls piers and columns. The narthex is divided from the nave by colonnettes. These have oak panels. They can be raised or lowered.
To the left of the narthex is the former baptistery. Travertine finishes it. An iron gate marks the entrance. The windows show the Baptism of Jesus. They also show Jesus blessing children. A phoenix symbolizes resurrection.
Inside the nave you will notice the marble’s beauty. Cream dark pink and ruby shades are used. The shrine of St. Rita is on the right. It is made of travertine. The altar has a mosaic plaque. It contains a Christogram. The floor uses Botticino marble. Confessionals line the left side. They are used daily. Fifty feet above is a ceiling. It features wooden trusses and acoustical tile panels. The inscription above the chancel arch reads Holy Holy Holy God Almighty.
In 2001 the Oblates of the Virgin Mary began staffing Holy Ghost Church. They continue its mission of spiritual guidance. The church offers various activities. These include social ministry religious education and Bible studies. It provides shelter food and care to those in need. Holy Ghost Catholic Church continues its tradition of community service.
The Oblates opened the Lanteri Center for Ignatian Spirituality in Denver. The Lanteri Center makes spiritual direction available. It also provides daily prayer with Scripture. The Spiritual Exercises of St Ignatius are also available. The center trains spiritual directors as well.
Holy Ghost Catholic Church stands as a beacon of faith art and service. Its history architecture and community involvement make it a Denver treasure. The church embodies the spirit of Denver.