Cathedral of Saints Simon and Jude, Roman Catholic cathedral in Phoenix, United States.
The Cathedral of Saints Simon and Jude stands at 6351 North 27th Avenue, just west of Interstate 17. The present church was dedicated in 1966, replacing the 1954 structure. In front of it, a large cross rises over a dome-like shelter that covers the temporary altar where Pope John Paul II celebrated Mass on September 14, 1987.
The building was consecrated in 1966 and received cathedral status in 1969 when the Diocese of Phoenix was established. This elevation marked an important ecclesiastical recognition for the region's Catholic community.
The parish was founded on May 15, 1953, by Bishop Daniel Gercke, with Father Paul Smith, an Irish priest, as founding pastor. Four Sisters of Loreto arrived from Navan, Ireland, on August 20, 1954, to staff the new school. Mother Teresa spoke here in 1989 when a Missionaries of Charity branch opened in Phoenix.
The building is located near North 27th Avenue in north Phoenix and is easy to reach on foot or by car. Visitors should note that regular services take place at set times, so checking hours ahead of your visit is helpful.
In 2016, the building received its first pipe organ with 51 ranks, made by the Peragallo Pipe Organ Company. This musical instrument has enriched services since then and created a new acoustic dimension for worshippers.
The community of curious travelers
AroundUs brings together thousands of curated places, local tips, and hidden gems, enriched daily by 92,995 contributors worldwide.