Q: Are there other Basilicas in the U.S.?
At the time of the designation of St. Lawrence (04/93) there were 33 other Basilicas in the United States.
Q: What are the conditions necessary for a church to obtain the title of Basilica?
The church must have been consecrated (St. Lawrence was consecrated 10/13/1920); the liturgical rites (celebration of the Holy Eucharist, sacraments of penance and other sacraments) should be executed in an exemplary way with fidelity to liturgical norms, and the active participation of the people of God (parishioners). It should be large enough and the elements required for liturgical celebration (altar, pulpit, and celebrant's chair) should conform to General Statutes of the Roman missal.
Q: What are the responsibilities of a Basilica?
Because of the relationship between a Basilica and the Holy Father, Basilicas have the responsibility to promote the study of the documents of the Holy Father and the Holy See, especially those concerning the Sacred Liturgy.
Q: What are the privileges of a Basilica?
Basilicas have certain privileges such as granting of plenary indulgences to the faithful who come to the Basilica to participate in the celebration of specific days. At the Basilica of St. Lawrence those days are: