“For the Greater Glory of God.” That’s the motto etched in gold leaf inside Saint Ignatius Church. Today we will explore its history.
Saint Ignatius Church is a Jesuit parish. It stands proudly next to Boston College’s main campus. This church serves residents, students, and anyone seeking spiritual connection.
The parish was founded in 1926. Cardinal William O’Connell established it. The church included parts of Brighton and Brookline. This also included the Boston College campus. The Jesuit Fathers of the college were put in charge.
World War II delayed construction. Ground was finally broken in November 1947. Before the church was built, services were held in the college library.
The dedication of Saint Ignatius Church occurred on July 31. It marked the formal opening of the new church. Archbishop Richard Cushing celebrated a solemn pontifical Mass.
The church is a striking example of modern Gothic architecture. Ancient trees surround it. The architects aimed to capture the religious atmosphere of early Gothic designs.
The upper church has seating for 1,000 people. Graceful wood trusses support the nave ceiling. These rise from decorated stone corbels. This design gives the interior an airy and open feel. Stained-glass windows depict the history of the Jesuit Order.
Tennessee marble was used for the steps and altar base. The main and side altars are from Botticino, Italy. Belgium provided the Communion rail and holy water fonts. The baptismal font came from Alabama.
Figures of St. Cecilia and King David adorn the choir gallery. They symbolize religious music. A pipe organ was installed. Casavant Brothers of Quebec, Canada built it.
Angelo Cascieri created the Stations of the Cross. They were carved from basswood. The carvings are set in antique gold frames. The interior and exterior lighting was designed specifically for the church. This includes bronze tabernacle doors. Also altar candlesticks and crosses.
There is also a lower church. It can seat 500 people. It has a small stage and recessed altar. This allows it to be used as a small auditorium when needed. Next to the lower church is a meeting hall. It can accommodate 200 people. It has a modern kitchen.
The parish of Saint Ignatius aspires to be a welcoming community. Saint Ignatius wants to be a spiritual home, according to their vision statement. The Saint Ignatius parish wants to actively engage in vibrant liturgies. They are journeying with their youth. Saint Ignatius is walking with the excluded. They care for our common home. They discern their response to God’s vision. This includes peace, justice, and reconciliation for us and the world.
Saint Ignatius Church reflects the mission of the Jesuits. Their motto guides the parish. They strive to find God in all things. The Saint Ignatius Parish values nourishing liturgy. They aspire to provide forms of worship. Word, music, and sacraments should feed the heart. Also the mind, body, and soul. Saint Ignatius wants an inclusive community. Saint Ignatius strives to build a faith community. They want this community to be welcoming to all.
Saint Ignatius Church stands as a testament to faith. It embodies architectural beauty. Remember its motto as you leave: “Ad Majorem Dei Gloriam”.