Introduction
The Parish of St. John the Baptist in Savannah, Georgia has a rich history that dates to the late 18th century. It was founded in 1793 by a group of French immigrants who were fleeing Haiti. In 1850, the parish was selected to be the Cathedral parish and has since served as the seat of the Diocese of Savannah. Today, the Parish of St. John the Baptist is a thriving community of approximately 1,000 families, providing the Celebration of the Mass and access to the sacraments. The Parish has also become a popular tourist destination, attracting thousands of visitors each year who come to experience its rich history, architecture, and cultural significance.
The Legacy of the Parish of St. John the Baptist
The Parish of St. John the Baptist has a rich legacy that is deeply rooted in faith, resilience, and community. The French immigrants who founded the Parish were fleeing persecution and seeking a new home where they could practice their Catholic faith freely. They found refuge in Savannah, where they were welcomed by the local community and established the Parish of St. John the Baptist.
Over the years, the Parish has faced numerous challenges and obstacles, like the fire in 1898, which nearly destroyed the entire building. However, it has remained steadfast in its commitment to serving the community and spreading the message of faith and hope. Today, the Parish is a thriving community that continues to inspire and uplift people from all walks of life. One of the most remarkable aspects of the Parish’s legacy is its resilience in the face of adversity.
The Role of Ornaments in the Parish’s Legacy
The Parish of St. John the Baptist has a rich tradition of creating and selling ornaments that depict its iconic architecture and cultural significance. These ornaments have become a popular souvenir for tourists and a source of revenue for the Parish. In fact, the Parish sold over $125,000 worth of ornaments in the past fiscal year alone.
The ornaments, which are sold both in-person and online, are created by Beacon Design, a company that has been working with the Parish for over 15 years. The intricate designs and attention to detail make these ornaments a popular choice for those who want to commemorate their visit to the Parish. Mary-Clark Rechtiene, a volunteer that heads that program at the Cathedral says, “I have no problem recommending Beacon Design to anyone who asks, it has been a pleasant 15-year relationship.”
While the ornaments are a source of revenue for the Parish, they also play a significant role in preserving its legacy. By depicting the Parish’s iconic architecture and cultural significance, the ornaments help to keep the Parish’s rich history alive and accessible to people from all over the world. They serve as a reminder of the Parish’s enduring legacy of faith, resilience, and community.
To purchase an ornament from The Cathedral Basilica of St. John the Baptist, click here!
The Community of the Parish of St. John the Baptist
The Parish of St. John the Baptist is a remarkable congregation that has played an important role in the history of Savannah and the Catholic Church in the South. From its humble beginnings in 1793 to its current functions as a seat of the Diocese of Savannah, the church has remained a beacon of faith and community. Today, the Parish of St. John the Baptist continues to serve the faithful and the less fortunate members of the community.
