The Cathedral of
St. Helena

In 1904, Bishop John P. Carroll set out to construct a Cathedral for the people of Helena, Montana.

A symphony of color and light, majesty and holiness, Bishop Carroll hoped she would rival those of Europe.

We welcome you to learn more about this magnificent house of God, your Cathedral of Saint Helena.

"Wisely has your Bishop selected for it that form of architecture which, rising from the soul of the struggling, but vital Church, ever sought to lift its people up to God. Wisely did he, too, plant here amidst mountain, pine and peak, the architecture that reproduces the beauty of the one and the glory of the other"

Most Rev. John J. Glennon, D.D. Archbishop of St. Louis

speaking of Gothic architecture during the consecration Mass

The Early Days

The Early Days Bishop John B. Brondel, the first Bishop of Helena, quickly recognized that the faithful of his Diocese were outgrowing the Cathedral of the Sacred Heart of Jesus. He desired to construct a veritable magnificent church in the Capital City. He commented to a reporter:

"It is the church of the living God, and should be more commodious, more imposing, Ah! I can almost see in imagination a great stone church with lofty spires and a bell tower."

Bishop Brondel would not live to see this dream arrive in reality. This was left to his successor, Bishop John P. Carroll.

Learn More About Our History

Tour The Cathedral

Tours are available by request/reservation for parties of 10 or more Tuesday, Wednesday, or Thursday between 1pm and 3pm. If you have less than 10 you may still view the Cathedral on your own time.

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Virtual Tour

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