Archbishop Lori named honorary custodian of Baltimore Basilica

The Basilica of the Assumption Historic Trust named Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori as an Honorary Custodian of America’s First Catholic Cathedral during the trust’s annual fall meeting.

The resolution to create the honorary title first was adopted by the board of directors in 2022. The designation recognizes individuals who have made significant contributions – through talent or treasure – to support the work of the trust.

The trust works to maintain and preserve the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The basilica, located at 409 Cathedral St. in the direct center of Baltimore City and opened in 1821, was the first Catholic cathedral in the United States. 

The basilica is noted for both its architecture and its place in church history. Archbishop John Carroll, the first bishop in the U.S., was trying to form an American vision of the church in the late 18th and early 19th centuries when he led the campaign to build the basilica. It was designed by one of America’s foremost architects at the time, Benjamin Henry Latrobe, who also designed the U.S. Capitol in Washington, D.C.

In a media release announcing the honor, the Basilica Trust noted that Archbishop Lori has served with “unwavering dedication to the Trust as the Archbishop of Baltimore since 2012. His leadership has been characterized by a profound commitment to the faithful, fostering a vibrant community of believers through his compassionate ministry and steadfast witness to the teachings of Jesus Christ,” 

As chairman of the Historic Trust since 2012, Archbishop Lori has played a pivotal role in the preservation and enhancement of the basilica. Under his stewardship, the trust has expanded its support, bringing together directors from across the nation to bolster the basilica’s significance as a treasured, national landmark.

“Archbishop Lori’s vision and leadership have been instrumental in ensuring that the basilica remains a beacon of faith and history for future generations,” said Deacon Sean Keller, vice president of the Basilica of the Assumption Historic Trust. “We are honored to recognize his invaluable contributions with this distinguished title.”

The Basilica of the Assumption Historic Trust, incorporated April 1, 1976, is dedicated to the mission of maintaining, preserving and restoring the basilica and its surrounding properties. Thanks to the generosity of past supporters, the trust has successfully restored the Baltimore Basilica to its original grandeur, ensuring its status as “America’s Cathedral” for thousands of national and international visitors, pilgrims and worshippers, according to the media release.

For more information about the Basilica of the Assumption Historic Trust and its initiatives, visit assumptiontrust.org/

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