Key West Church Named Minor Basilica
St. Mary Star of the Sea named first Basilica in Archdiocese of Miami
Monday, Feb 13, 2012 | Updated 8:38 AM EDT
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A grotto at St. Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church is illuminated.
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A Key West church has been named a minor basilica by the Vatican.
St. Mary Star of the Sea will be the first basilica in the Archdiocese of Miami and the fifth in the state of Florida.
The church was established in 1846 and is the oldest Catholic church in South 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.
Copyright Associated Press
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