Special Churches: Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist

This past Sunday I had the wonderful opportunity to attend mass with a dear friend at the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist in Charleston, South Carolina (Hi, Paige!).

I had been once before but the service was held at night and the church was crowded, so I didn't get the full experience. This time, I went in the morning and was simply stunned: the Cathedral of Saint John the Baptist is truly one of the most beautiful churches I've ever been in. This soaring gothic structure has remarkable stained glass windows, amazing architecture and a deep sense of sanctity.

First constructed in 1850-1854, the original church was burned to the ground in the citywide fire of 1861. The congregation rallied and rebuilt the cathedral even grander than before. The cornerstone for the present church was laid in 1890.

The exterior structure is made of Connecticut brownstone. Over each entrance are unique stained glass windows including the Papal coat of arms and the seal of the state of South Carolina. The pews are of carved Flemish oak and the main altar is constructed of white Vermont marble. In the nave are 14 large two-light windows, representing the life of Christ from the Nativity to the Ascension. Above the high altar is a five-light window copied from Leonardo DaVinci's "Last Supper." The rose window above it is the Baptism of Jesus by St. John the Baptist.

Sadly, I forgot my camera but I don't think my amateur photos would do it justice (the ones below are from the Web and feature the exterior and the unique Mary altar). If you vacation to Charleston, plan to see this very special church for yourself. If you attend service (Protestants are welcome!) stay after for a short tour led by a trained and charming docent.