Co-Cathedral of Saint Theresa of the Child Jesus (Honolulu) Facts for Kids

Quick facts for kids Co-Cathedral of Saint Theresa of the Child Jesus

Location in Hawaii
21°19′27″N 157°51′40″W / 21.3243°N 157.8611°W / 21.3243; -157.8611
Location	712 N. School St. Honolulu, Hawaii
Country	United States
Denomination	Roman Catholic Church
History
Founded	1931
Architecture
Style	Modern
Completed	1963
Specifications
Number of spires	One
Administration
Diocese	Honolulu

The Co-Cathedral of Saint Theresa of the Child Jesus is a special church in Honolulu, Hawaii. It's called a "co-cathedral" because it shares the role of being a main church for the Roman Catholic Church in the Diocese of Honolulu. The other main church is the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace. This church is named after Saint Theresa of the Child Jesus. It's located in the Kalihi-Palama area, just outside downtown Honolulu.

A Look at Its History
- Growing and Rebuilding
- Becoming a Co-Cathedral
What Happens at the Co-Cathedral?
Images for kids
See also

A Look at Its History

The first church building for Saint Theresa was started in 1931. It was founded by Msgr. Stephen Alencastre, who was a leader for the Catholic Church in Hawaii at that time. The building was finished quickly, in September 1932.

Growing and Rebuilding

Over time, more and more people became Catholic in the area. The original wooden church started to show signs of wear and tear. So, in 1956, a new leader named Msgr. Benedict Vierra began a big effort to raise money. He wanted to replace the old church with a new, stronger one. His hard work paid off, and the new church was officially opened on August 15, 1963.

Becoming a Co-Cathedral

Later, the main cathedral, the Cathedral Basilica of Our Lady of Peace, became too small for all the people attending services. In 1984, Bishop Joseph Ferrario asked Pope John Paul II if Saint Theresa Church could also become a main church, or "co-cathedral," because it was larger. The Pope agreed, and Saint Theresa Catholic Church was made a co-cathedral on July 28, 1985. This meant it would share important duties with the other cathedral.

What Happens at the Co-Cathedral?

The Co-Cathedral of Saint Theresa of the Child Jesus is often used for very important church services. For example, it hosts the annual Mass of the Chrism. During this special Mass, the bishop blesses holy oils. These oils are then used in different church ceremonies, like baptisms and confirmations, throughout the diocese. Sometimes, new priests are ordained, or new bishops are welcomed, at the co-cathedral too.