St. Patrick’s Cathedral, New York City, one of the most famous places of worship in the world

Every time I visit New York City, including my recent trip in September, I never miss a stop at St. Patrick’s Cathedral, on Fifth Avenue between 50th and 51st Streets in Midtown Manhattan, directly across from Rockefeller Center.

Dedicated in 1879, it is the largest Neo-Gothic Catholic cathedral in North America. What many visitors don’t know is that beneath the high altar lies a crypt holding the remains of the Archbishops of New York. Also interred there is Pierre Toussaint, a Haitian-born former slave who is now a candidate for sainthood.

Pierre Toussaint was born into slavery in Haiti in 1766, he was brought to New York City in 1787 and gained his freedom in 1807. Using the substantial wealth he earned from his successful hairdressing business catering to the city’s elite, he dedicated his life to serving others. He and his wife opened their home to shelter orphans, fostered numerous children, and paid for their education and trade training. He personally nursed sick residents during the deadly yellow fever epidemics, and helped organize an employment agency, a credit bureau, and assistance for Haitian immigrants and traveling priests. He really is a Saint!

Pope John Paul II declared him Venerable in 1996, a major step toward potential sainthood.

Over the years, the cathedral has hosted the funeral Masses of many famous figures, including Babe Ruth, Vince Lombardi, Ed Sullivan, Robert F. Kennedy and the great New York Yankees manager Billy Martin, as well as a memorial Mass for Andy Warhol.

Rockefeller Center may draw the crowds, but the real history is across the street.