Key West Church Named Minor Basilica By Vatican
KEY WEST (CBSMiami) – The oldest Catholic church in South Florida has been named a minor basilica by the Vatican.
Established in 1846, St. Mary Star of the Sea in Key West will be the first basilica in the Archdiocese of Miami and the fifth in the state of Florida.
Archbishop Thomas Wenski announced the news to parishioners in Key West through a video played at weekend masses.
Churches are given the "basilica" title in recognition of their historical and spiritual importance. There are 72 minor basilicas in the United States.
The official designation will take place in a ceremony on May 31.
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