We write a lot about Maine’s history. It’s spread throughout the state and makes for a great backdrop to explore the state. One of the most interesting ways to appreciate all that has come before us in Maine is the religious history that can be found in all corners of Vacationland. The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul stands mighty in Lewiston and might even catch you off-guard if you’re not expecting to see it.
The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul in Lewiston is part of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Portland. But even for those who don’t have a connection to the religion, it’s one of the most stunning structures in the city.
ct-cruisers / TripAdvisor
And the history is fascinating. In the mid-nineteenth century, Lewiston saw a number of Roman Catholic French Canadians come to town for work in the textile mills.
S9663 / TripAdvisor This new population created the need for a French-speaking priest and services were held in the basement of Saint Joseph’s Church. That is until the congregation swelled to 1,000 people!
As the congregation continued to grow, they eventually moved to the nave of Saint John’s, which they grew out of. In 1871 the cornerstone of the Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul was laid and the building began!
Donny Campos / Google In 1902, the parish was separated creating Auburn’s Saint Louis church which sat across the river.
Even after the split, the church continued to expand — this time to 10,000 people! The parish split another two times and each time the budget for building a new church was also separated, delaying the new one over and over again.
It wasn’t until 1933 that the Diocese of Portland allowed the top part of the church to be done.
Mainer0 / TripAdvisor
The church was completed in 1936 and dedicated in 1938.
S9663 / TripAdvisor
It was added to the National Register of Historic Places in 1983 in recognition of being the second largest church in New England.
Mainer0 / TripAdvisor
Today the church is a beautiful place to visit, filled with calm and peace.
Susan Souza / Google
Stop in to appreciate the history or worship if that’s in your practice.
Rita Campoli / Google It’s an incredible building to see and worth the visit.
The Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul can be seen from almost anywhere in downtown Lewiston. You can learn more about it here. Sunday mass takes place from 7 a.m. to 10:30 a.m. You can even attend a mass in Latin at 8:30 a.m.
ct-cruisers / TripAdvisor
S9663 / TripAdvisor
This new population created the need for a French-speaking priest and services were held in the basement of Saint Joseph’s Church. That is until the congregation swelled to 1,000 people!
Donny Campos / Google
In 1902, the parish was separated creating Auburn’s Saint Louis church which sat across the river.
Even after the split, the church continued to expand — this time to 10,000 people! The parish split another two times and each time the budget for building a new church was also separated, delaying the new one over and over again.
Mainer0 / TripAdvisor
Susan Souza / Google
Rita Campoli / Google
It’s an incredible building to see and worth the visit.
Another example of religious history here in Maine is at a special Shaker Village. In fact, most people have no idea just how special this tiny village in Maine truly is!
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Address: Basilica of Saints Peter and Paul, 122 Ash St, Lewiston, ME 04240, USA
