Sacred Heart Cathedral, Rochester

The Sacred Heart Cathedral, located in Rochester, is the mother church of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Rochester and serves as both the bishop’s seat and a vibrant parish community. Known today as the Cathedral Community at Sacred Heart Cathedral, it plays a central role in the region’s Catholic life, offering liturgical services, education, and outreach programs for a diverse congregation.

The cathedral’s origins trace back to the founding of Sacred Heart Parish in 1911. Its present church building, a stately example of early 20th-century ecclesiastical design, was completed in 1927 based on plans by Chicago architect Charles H. Prindeville. It was named the pro-cathedral in 1937 after the former diocesan seat, Saint Patrick’s Cathedral, was sold to the Eastman Kodak Company and dismantled. Sacred Heart was officially designated the diocesan cathedral in 1952.

A major and controversial renovation was undertaken in 2003–2005, led by liturgical design consultant Fr. Richard S. Vosko. The project reoriented the worship space by relocating the altar to the center of the church, installing a new baptismal font along the main aisle, removing traditional pews in favor of movable chairs, and repositioning the tabernacle to a side chapel. The original statue of the Sacred Heart was also removed to make space for a new organ and choir area. Critics of the renovation-many of whom were supporters of the cathedral’s traditional layout and hoped it would remain unchanged in honor of Bishop Fulton Sheen-voiced concern over the expense and aesthetics.

Despite past controversies, the cathedral remains a spiritual and cultural cornerstone. Its ministries span from youth groups and music ensembles to social justice initiatives and community outreach. Whether attending Mass, exploring its history, or engaging with its inclusive programs, Sacred Heart Cathedral continues to foster a welcoming and active faith environment in the heart of Rochester.