Gaze upon this statue of Saint Ignatius of Loyola SJ. It stands as a silent testament to a rich history. A history deeply intertwined with the St Ignatius Loyola Church just a short distance away. This church a Denver landmark boasts a stunning Late Gothic Revival style. It was built in 1924. The architects Frank W Frewen Jr and Frank E Mountjoy drew inspiration from a church in Cork Ireland.
The church wasn’t just bricks and mortar. It was a beacon of integration. In a time of racial segregation Jesuit leaders like Father William Markoe and later Father Edward Murphy SJ bravely championed inclusion. They welcomed people of all races into their congregation and school. Father Murphy’s dedication earned him national acclaim. He received awards for his tireless work in promoting racial harmony. The church even served as a spiritual home for boxing legend Sonny Liston. Liston found solace and support within the church community.
St Ignatius Loyola Church wasn’t always located here. It began as Sacred Heart Parish. Established in 1879. The rapid growth of Sacred Heart led to the creation of Loyola Chapel in 1910. Finally in 1924 the present church was built. This impressive structure seated 1200 people. It included exquisite stained glass windows and Carrara marble. This grand building served as a center of faith for the community. It endured the hardships of the Great Depression. It later became a parish in 1944.
The church initially served an Irish and Italian congregation. Following World War II its demographics shifted. African Americans moving west found a welcoming space within its walls. This welcoming spirit persisted. Despite a decline in Jesuit vocations. The Jesuits served St Ignatius for nearly a century. In 2023 they withdrew. A new order the Community of St John took over. The church continues to serve as a place of worship and community. A testament to the enduring faith of its people.
The statue of Saint Ignatius stands as a reminder. A reminder of the church’s rich history. A history of faith resilience and unwavering commitment to social justice. It reminds us of the enduring legacy of St Ignatius of Loyola. A legacy of welcome and integration in the heart of Denver. Let us take a moment of reflection. Reflect on the enduring strength of this community. Then we shall move on to our next destination.