Immaculate Conception Church now a Basilica

WATERBURY, CT (08-10-2008) - Within a regal celebration of the Liturgy of the Eucharist, Most Reverend Henry J. Mansell, principal celebrant, asked Reverend John J. Bevins, Pastor, to read a Vatican decree conferring the title of Minor Basilica on Immaculate Conception Church in Waterbury. With this naming, the Waterbury church becomes the first basilica in the state of Connecticut. In his homily, Archbishop Mansell pointed out the classic features of the church's architecture, noting that, "Bishop John Niland and those who built this church in 1928 must have had a vision that this magnificent church might be declared a basilica."

The Archbishop blessed two symbols present in a basilica, an umbrellino (red and gold umbrella) and a tintinabulum (procession bell), both of which were used traditionally in papal processions. At the conclusion of the Mass, Archbishop Mansell praised the outstanding music rendered by the choir, "most fitting for a basilica."

(Above) Reverend John J. Bevins reads the decree naming Immaculate Conception a minor basilica.	(Above) Archbishop Mansell blesses the umbrellino.
(Above) Parishioners and guests prepare for the historic celebration.	(Above) The Knights of Columbus form an honor guard during the entrance procession.
(Above) Archbishop Mansell, accompanied by Reverend John J. Bevins, blesses the new sign of the Basilica. The Basilica is located at 74 West Main Street, on the green in Waterbury. For more information about the naming of the basilica and its requirements, as well as the privileges and indulgences available, see The Catholic Transcript article of June 2008.