Our Lady of Lourdes (Archdiocese of Atlanta)
| Our Lady of Lourdes | |
 | |
| Dedication: | Our Lady of Lourdes |
| Type/Classification: | Territorial Parish |
| Non-Parochial: | No |
| Operated By: | Diocesan clergy |
| Venerated Saints: | None specified |
| Diocese: | Archdiocese of Atlanta |
| Deanery: | Central Deanery |
| Address: | 25 Boulevard NE, Atlanta, GA 30312 |
| City: | Atlanta, GA |
| Subdivision: | Georgia |
| Country: | United States |
| County: | Fulton County |
| Website: | Website |
| Founded: | 1912 |
| School: | Yes |
| Email: | info@lourdesatlanta.org |
| AI Confidence: | Not rated |
| Review Level: | 0/5 (unreviewed) |
Our Lady of Lourdes is in Georgia (United States) and is part of the Archdiocese of Atlanta.
It is dedicated to Our Lady of Lourdes.
History
Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church in Atlanta was established in November 1912 by Father Ignatius Lissner from the Society of African Missions as the first African-American Catholic parish in Atlanta. It was founded with funding from Mother Katharine Drexel, who aimed to serve African Americans and Native Americans through her established order, the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament.
Initially known as Our Lady of Lourdes Colored Mission, it was built as a three-story building combining church and school functions. The church has been a significant historical site, notably located near the birthplace of Martin Luther King Jr., and played a role during the civil rights movement with many parishioners participating in protests. The school associated with the parish operated until 2001, after which the building became the Katharine Drexel Community Center. The parish has seen several expansions, including a capital campaign in 2008 to construct a new sanctuary, reflecting the growth of the congregation.[1][2][3]
Special features
- Historical Significance: Recognized as the "Mother Church of African American Catholics" in Atlanta, with connections to civil rights history.
- Cultural Heritage: Represents a vibrant African American Catholic community with a legacy of social justice involvement.
- Architectural Elements: The church has historical architecture with modern updates, including plans for a new sanctuary reflecting its community's needs.
- Community and Ministry: Known for its dynamic Masses, which include gospel music and expressive worship, reflecting a unique "Lourdes Experience."
- It is on the same block as the birth home of Martin Luther King, Jr
Related parishes
- St. Anthony of Padua, Atlanta, GA
- St. Peter Claver Catholic Church, Atlanta, GA
References
- ↑ History – Our Lady of Lourdes Atlanta - lourdesatlanta.org. [1]
- ↑ Our Lady of Lourdes, Atlanta | Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Atlanta | Atlanta, GA - archatl.com. [2]
- ↑ Our Lady of Lourdes Catholic Church: Atlanta’s First African-American Catholic Church - Georgia Historical Society - www.georgiahistory.com. [3]