This week I’m sharing photos of the Basilica of St Francis Xavier in Dyersville, IA. This Gothic style church was in stark contrast to the stone and shell grotto and shrines I saw in WI. The parish in Dyersville was formed in the late 1880’s to serve the growing number of German immigrants who had come to America seeking the opportunity to own their own land to farm, and religious and political freedom. They were joined by the Irish immigrants who had come to farm the land as well. In 1889 the Basilica was completed and named for the patron saint of the large donor who purchased the plot of land for the church – St. Francis Xavier. The beauty of this church reflects the style and history of the original European parishioners who were grateful for the blessings God had bestowed upon them. There is a school on the site as well. When I visited, it was near Halloween and the school lot was full of decorated cars for a Trunk or Treat event. Kids and families came in costumes and were greeted by firemen who brought their truck as well. It was the modern day world upon the historic immigrant foundation. Even with all the activity outside, the atmosphere inside the church was peaceful and serene.

I Found God today in another beautiful church.