A great honor was bestowed upon Saint Edward Church in Palm Beach on Dec. 13, 2024, when the church was elevated to the status of a minor basilica. The Vatican designates churches as basilicas because of their historical, spiritual and architectural significance. Basilicas have special privileges, including precedence over other churches. In this Year of Hope, basilicas, like diocesan cathedrals, are places of special pilgrimage and have specially designated Holy Doors in imitation of the Vatican basilica. Certain liturgical days associated with the papacy are celebrated with special care.
On Saturday, March 1, 2025, at the 5:30 p.m. vigil Mass, Bishop Gerald M. Barbarito will celebrate a Votive Mass in honor of Saint Edward and designate the Holy Doors for this Year of Hope. All are invited. A reception will follow, hosted by Right Rev. Archimandrite Glen J. Pothier, rector of the basilica, which is located at 144 N. County Road, Palm Beach.
