The Renaissance Project will ensure the preservation of a national landmark and historical treasure.
In 1849, when gold-miners, many of whom were Catholic, began to overrun San Francisco, the only place to attend Mass was the Mission Dolores and that was several miles from the docks. This led to the establishment of the parish of Saint Francis on June 12, 1849.
Upgrades to the Church will reflect
the Upper
Church of the Basilica of Saint Francis in
Assisi,
Italy.
When the inside of the church was completely burned in the 1906 earthquake, the decision was made to rebuild. Steel frames were added to the walls, the roof was replaced and the artwork restored. The church is known for its beautiful murals depicting the life of its patron, Saint Francis of Assisi, and has been dedicated as an historical landmark. The parish was closed July 1, 1992 and then re-opened on February 22, 1998 as the City Shrine Church. In September of 1999, The National Conference of Catholic Bishops recognized it as the National Shrine of Saint Francis of Assisi.
The Renaissance Project will provide added seismic stability to this historical landmark and will also enhance both the exterior of the church and the beautiful art found within.
The Archdiocese of San Francisco invites you to join us in this historic endeavor to instill the spirit of Saint Francis in the heart of our City.
Snapshots of the Church after the 1906 earthquake.
The Church after its dedication as a National Shrine.
