Sts. Peter, Paul church receives basilica status

LEWISTON – Sts. Peter and Paul Parish, whose graceful steeples have become a city landmark, has been elevated to the status of basilica.

The higher status was given by the Vatican in Rome and makes the church the only basilica in Maine and the 56th in the United States.

“We’ve been working on this since 1999,” said the Rev. Robert D. Lariviere, pastor of the parish. “I’m excited. I’m very happy about it.”

The term basilica historically referred to a style of architecture, but is now used to refer to a special status given to a select number of churches.

The criteria to be named a basilica include artistic value that inspires, capacity to accommodate crowds, and high-quality services and programs, including those that help the poor, liturgical prayer and Catholic teachings.

“The honor also bestows a special bond with the bishop of Rome, the pope,” and is like an overall stamp of approval, Lariviere said.

Sts. Peter and Paul was designed by the Boston architectural firm of O’Connell and O’Connell. Construction began in 1904 and was completed 34 years later.

The twin towers rise to a height of 163 feet, and its 5,000-pipe organ fills the huge, vaulted chamber with music. The pews can seat nearly 1,500 worshippers.

It was paid for through contributions from the many people who left Canada for work in the area’s mills.

“They were poor millworkers and shoe workers,” said parishioner and Lewiston Mayor Lionel Guay. “They built it through collections of pennies, nickels and dimes.”

Aside from giving them an extra source of pride, parishioners will notice little change as a result of the new designation, Lariviere said.

This spring, the word basilica will be added to the church’s name, and the parish insignia will be modified to include the crossed keys, which indicate a connection with the Vatican.

The honor will be celebrated during weeklong events in April or May.