A Protestant Tours a Massive and Immaculate Gothic Church in St. Louis, Missouri

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[@johnbalao711]

I am an atheist, and I accidentally saw this presentation, which opened my eyes to search for and know God. I can't resist anymore that hunger to learn more about God.

[@StupidBeagleAce]

Hello John. As a Christian, I encourage you to continue to seek what you are looking for. No matter what commentary or Christian teacher you may come across, you will need to make a decision on the person of Jesus of Nazereth. Read his own words and his claims. God Bless you.

[@conallomahoney9311]

God bless

[@paru-chinbaka5214]

Hello John, I recommend you read the books that bear your name in the Bible, listen to some Orthodox vespers, and read Mere Christianity by C. S. Lewis

[@ryandersones]

Bishop Barron says that beauty is key to drawing people closer to himself.

[@dwinawhitson3870]

This was beautiful thank you for sharing it I am Catholic and I loved it.

[@McCainenl]

"I like all four of the Gospel writers" "They were all good! That's why they kept them in the book" This lady rules

[@goofygrandlouis6296]

Wait.. The debate is still on about the Gospel of St-Thomas, though. right ?

[@titob.yotokojr.9337]

@@goofygrandlouis6296 The debate is centuries too late if your are a Catholic because the Catholic Church has already definitively ruled in the late 3rd century that there will be no other gospel beside the four already in the bible.

[@goofygrandlouis6296]

@@titob.yotokojr.9337 Sure but it is still interesting to know about the other lost gospels, from an intellectual perspective 😉.

[@goofygrandlouis6296]

@@titob.yotokojr.9337 Also I'm a Catholic, but defintely not for the Pope. a) I like the figure of Mary and b) the initial Church produced the best architecture, visual art and gregorian songs ever => more "majestic" than Protestantism if you want 😉

[@Taylor14Tnava]

Let’s pray that Matt takes RCIA classes to learn about Early church history and what the Catholic Church truly believes 🙏🏿

[@larco777]

Yo le recomendaria que leyera la suma apologetica de santo Tomas de aquino.

[@sarahisatitagain]

Amen!

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

Matt, it was such a pleasure to have you visit College Church! You did a wonderful job with this video. God bless, and I hope you and yours have a very Merry Christmas!

[@GymGuy817JasonEuless]

Hello, please, you need some votive candles in the church. It looks stripped.

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

@@GymGuy817JasonEuless Hello and Merry Christmas! We do have votive candles; they are just not visible in the shots in this video.

[@wsteven82]

It's so sad to not see Jesus kept in the most central altar.

[@GymGuy817JasonEuless]

@@wsteven82 I agree!

[@connorio2474]

@@wsteven82 True. We should never put Christ aside. He should always be at the center of our lives no matter if it’s convenient or not 😊

[@MW-he4cp]

Many churches still have the Tabernacle at the alter. Mine does. It's where it belongs! A separate adoration chapel is fine, but keep the Tabernacle at the front alter. A King sits at the throne.

[@user-vj9qz3br6l]

You are correct, it’s where it belongs-Second Vatican Council and modernist leaders caused so many issues

[@jacobc6556]

@@user-vj9qz3br6l To be fair to the Second Vatican Council, there was nothing in it about moving the Tabernacle. She just made that up.

[@conservativecatholic9030]

@@jacobc6556 in fairness, she is probably repeating what she was probably taught by a modernist priest. She probably did not make that up herself.

[@jimreilly917]

Exactly. The janitors closet is off to the side…not the King of Kings.

[@johnbrowne3950]

You really believe you can keep God in a tabernacle? lol.

[@user-wo7rz3yn4o]

This guy knows how to not let disagreements in doctrine and philosophy get in the way of things of agreement and that which can unite us Christians. Alleluia.

[@maemaeseggs]

Makes me tear up seeing the mural of “The Death of St. Joseph.” Beautiful! AMDG

[@tylerrossjcl]

I'm a canon lawyer and theologian. It wasn't anywhere a goal of Vatican 2 to move tabernacles aside. I'm not sure where she got that from.

[@toddlund]

Sadly from the continued misunderstanding (either intentional or unintentional from the clergy) of the Second Vatican Council’s works. I hope to see that Churches restore the respected place of the Christ's body and blood within its walls.

[@phickle]

The "spirit" of Vatican 2 still lives.

[@MW-he4cp]

Yes. A King sits in a throne. He should be at the front altar. A separate adoration chapel is great, though. But tabernacle should be up front by altar.

[@MW-he4cp]

Tyler, I'm Catholic but know nothing about canon law/lawyers. Can you explain how you became a canon lawyer? Requirements? Father Frank Pavone could probably use your help, although I'm sure he probably has someone working on his case already

[@RadTradX]

Vatican 2 turned people away from God and they had 7 open heretics(protestants) on it which goes against all Catholic teaching since Protestants are not Christians and cannot share in eternal life according to Satie Cognitum, The Council of Florence, and The council of Trent. Vatican 2 was the work of communists

[@michaelkaiser8694]

She’s fantastic. “I’m glad we kept them in the book.” 😂❤

[@Elizabeth-rh1hl]

I’m a St. Louis University graduate. Attended Mass at St. Francis Xavier. Beautiful church. Wonderful acoustics too.

[@AG-fl3kl]

Sadly the Blessed Sacrament ought to be in the centre of this beautiful church.

[@JeffHunter-wjhunter3]

First, the tabernacles are empty once a year during the Triduum, from the end of the Holy Thursday Mass until after the Easter Vigil Mass, so it's not "rarely". Second, Sacrosanctum Concilium allowed bishop conferences to adopt sacred furnishings for their regions and customs, and the post-conciliar Eucharisticum Mysterium *recommended* that the Blessed Sacrament be reserved in a quite place of contemplation and prayer, it did not mandate that the tabernacle be removed from the main altar.

[@dillonpariseau7873]

If you're ever in St. Louis again, check out the Cathedral Basilica. The amount of mosaic in there is quite stunning.

[@phickle]

Completely agree. The inside is just gorgeous. The mosaics are beautiful.

[@wanderingazn]

I third this recommendation!

[@flyingforfunUSA]

This.....

[@MattWhitmanTMBH]

Amazing place, but I wasn't able to film there. I reached out several times, but didn't get a response - I get it, that's a huge Cathedral with huge responsibilities and I bet a lot of people contact them with outside requests like mine. I'll try again next time I'm going through St. Louis.

[@jimferris9447]

Try also to visit the Basilica of Saint Louis, King of France, the “Old Cathedral”. It is Saint Louis’s oldest parish. Other historic churches in the area to visit: Church of the Holy Family across the river. St. Francis De Sales, the St. Joseph Shrine, the St. Ferdinand Shrine and the Academy to the Sacred Heart Shrine.

[@KatherineWeasley]

The "spirit of VII" is maddening. Show me an official document from that council that states the tabernacle should be moved and communion rails be eliminated. Prayers for holy mother church!

[@jimreilly917]

There isn’t one.

[@KatherineWeasley]

@@jimreilly917 I'm aware. That's why I put "the spirit of VII." Too many ignorant Catholics THINK that the council put certain things in motion when it did not.

[@jimreilly917]

@@KatherineWeasley I went to SLU. Had a Jesuit philosophy prof, who was in formation at the close of the Council. He remembers Jesuit priests offering Mass at SLU…The Eucharist offering? Pizza and Coca Cola. Not making this up.

[@richardhildreth4471]

Your comment on St Joseph was great. When I was a kid, I felt the same way about Mary. Asked my Protestant parents why, considering Mary's importance, we didn't honor her like Catholics do? She was willing to give birth to him and nurture him, which made her a significant contribution to th3 Christian faith, yet we only celebrated her on Mothers' Day. That with other similar issues is what attracted me to Catholicism. Anyway, thank you for your thoughtful commentary and for a great vid. Blessings.

[@caman171]

as a Baptist, of course Mary as the mother of Jesus has an important place. She bascially wrote the gospel of Luke. But just like Moses, as great as he was as the lawgiver, i dont pray to her. she is a great example of humility and the love of a mother staying with her son til the very end, when everyone else abandoned him

[@richardhildreth4471]

@caman171 as a Catholic, I don't pray to her either, but tho both my parents are dead, I honor them. However, as a Christian, I believe they are alive in heaven. As I honor my parents, I honor Mary as the mother of Jesus. I can ask you to pray for me. I believe that Mary is in heaven and alive, as my parents are. Also, as his mother, I believe that she has a special relationship with him. So, as she is alive as my parents are, I can ask her to pray for me just as I can ask you to pray for me. As a Catholic, that is the extent of my relationship to Mary. I do not pray to her as I pray to God, and I would never worship her. You and I both only truly pray to and worship God. Blessings to you, brother. And, please pray for me. I can always use it. Also, I have been a Baptist. When I was in the Army, I belonged to The First Baptist Church of Heilbronn in Heilbronn, Germany.

[@caman171]

@@richardhildreth4471 i will pray for you freind. as regarding mary tho, the bible clearly forbids communication with the dead as stated in Leviticus and Deuteronomy. if you are "asking" mary for something, you are praying to her, and open yourself up to demons. Jesus is our ONLY mediator and advocate with the Father (1 timothy 2:5)

[@richardhildreth4471]

@@caman171 so she's not in heaven?

[@caman171]

@@richardhildreth4471 are u asking is mary in heaven? yes she is. but we cannot communicate with those in heaven, they cannot hear us. do you really believe mary can hear the millions of prayers to her from catholics all over the world? she is not God so she cannot possibly hear all those prayers anymore than you can answer a million phone calls. 1 timothy 2:5 makes it clear that Jesus is the only one who can take our prayers to the Father.

[@danielmarotta4465]

My God...what a beautiful and stunning gothic church..if I ever visit USA I will try to visit and attend a service there..greetings from Sydney Australia 🇦🇺

[@FatherJMarcelPortelli]

It is beautiful, but I can only imagine what it must have looked like before the 1970s, especially the sanctuary and the altar. I'm sure that it was also far more colorful. That would've all far more accurately reflected the original vision of the architects and the artists.

[@jajohnson7809]

This church is majestic. Thanks for bringing us there with you.

[@antoniodesousa9723]

Amazing insight into St. Joseph, love your thoughts about Jesus' earthly father.

[@PinkTigger33]

My jaw dropped. Glory to God in the highest. What gifts man has been given to bring this to life. I could just sit in there and take it all in. It's impressive even empty. I can't imagine how much more it is when it's filled with people and music singing and praising God. I love this series! Thank you so much Matt for bringing these to us. Thank you Ruth Cochran for taking the time to show and explain this.

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

Thank you for your kind words! God bless!

[@robmorgan3842]

If you ever get the Chance please go visit and interview Fr. Joshua Caswell at St John Cantius in Chicago. That priest and the Church will blow your mind.

[@herrgodfrey9563]

It makes sense why some churches and cathedrals take so long to build. The amount of painstaking detail both, with interior and exterior detail, along with funding and the preparation of materials, and the logistics of getting materials from point A to point B is incredible. Cologne Cathedral in Germany took around 600 years to complete from the 1200s to the 1800s. There's a photo of it from the late 1800s with a wooden crane on its roof that was built over 400 years before the photo was taken. They are just massive undertakings but their beauty and symbolism makes it all worth it.

[@patrickdean4853]

Beautiful Church and thoughtful dialogue. A few items of note: Vatican 2 did not direct the removal of the tabernacle from the alter- ideologues did that. Secondly, we kept hearing about the “renovation” to the church… and this is what happened when those same ideologues had enough influence to direct the redesign of archeological masterpieces that required no redesign whatsoever. Many, many gorgeous Churches were gutted and redesigned with atrocious results (see the Cathedral of Milwaukee). It is no coincidence that the popular devotion to the Blessed Sacrament has suffered since the widespread practice of removing the tabernacle from its proper place on the High Alter to a side chapel or, even worse, some spot they just picked off to the side. In closing, explain to me, that if you believed that the Eucharist was the Literal “body, blood, soul and divinity “, why would you remove the tabernacle-which is the space reserved specifically for containing the Blessed Sacrament- away from the visual center of the church. That’s exactly why the area directly behind the alter is so beautifully crafted. It expressly draws the eye to the most important place in the church.

[@sadie4538]

Agree with you 100%!

[@ritabecnel5422]

you are correct!! When our parish built a new church several years ago, they rightly put the tabernacle in the central area where everyone can see it (it was in a side chapel in the previous church). That happened partly because so many people told our pastor that we wanted our church to look like a Catholic church. The tabernacle holds the Body of our Lord, and should be in the most prominent place possible!

[@paulmclaughlin710]

The first Christians that crossed the Mississippi were the Catholics lead by the Jesuits. St. Louis University is the first college across the Mississippi and also the first medical school.

[@nicholasshaler7442]

Matt discovering Catholic inside baseball at 22:20 or so was mildly entertaining. That is a point of contention, and there is nothing which requires the Tabernacle not to be at the center of the church where it always had been.

[@myleshagar9722]

With the tabernacle gone from the centre, the majestic reredos made to house it is meaningless and redundant. At least they did not grind it up for pavement.

[@nicholasshaler7442]

@@myleshagar9722 Agreed entirely.

[@jacobc6556]

You knew with a Jesuit church there were bound to be a few overinterpretations of Vatican 2 popping up! ;-)

[@nicholasshaler7442]

@@jacobc6556 Of course.

[@daenithriuszanathos9306]

Could you please explain what you meant by "discovering Catholic inside baseball"? I feel like this is a figure of speech that's flying over my head.

[@danieldefonce]

Lovely! I’m from St. Louis and I engage in a number of ministries here, increasingly becoming oriented toward Catholicism. I drove by the parish a week or so ago. Hoping to visit at some point, but for now Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis will have to do 😉

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

We'd love to have you visit! The Cathedral is truly amazing.

[@janedoe3648]

Catholocism practices what the Bible calls doctrines of demons, forbidding marriage (of priests and monks/nuns), and contradicts the Bible in other serious ways. It's a false gospel

[@harambesstepbrother7579]

Matt I wish you one day get a chance to come to Buffalo NY and take a tour of Our Lady of Victory Basilica. It’s very breath taking and feels like being in Rome/Vatican.

[@tryingnottobeasmartass757]

When I lived in Buffalo (2016-2018) I loved going to Our Lady of Victory.

[@orangemanbad]

I became a Catholic last year. Best decision of my life. I finally feel like I know god.

[@emilybeier8919]

Matt, thank you for your openness, generosity of spirit, graciousness, and fraternal attitude in all these videos. Have no doubt that you are doing the Lords' work here. God bless you.

[@j.sethfrazer885]

Me and my wife were married in the St. Louis area and this was one of the churches that we considered looking into; we even attended an evening Mass. Truly one of the most overwhelmingly beautiful churches I’ve ever set foot in!!!

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

Thank you! Blessings on your marriage!

[@embelslishments]

It's a fair mistake, but St Paul's Cathedral in London isn't gothic, it's late English baroque. However it did replace a medieval gothic building! Westminster Abbey, a few miles west of St Pauls, is gothic (although parts are Norman romanesque & parts have some baroque touches, it's been changing gradually for over a thousand years so architectural categories naturally get super vague)

[@dalecaldwell]

One of the hidden tricks of St. Paul's is that it actually has flying buttresses because Wren had no better way of dealing with the weight, but they are hidden by an exterior wall.

[@justin_messer]

I thought St. Paul’s was Byzantine Revival. It seemed like everyone in the west (Catholic and Protestant) in the late19th century wanted to build their generations Hagia Sophia.

[@the.orthodox.photographer2272]

@@justin_messer There may be some Byzantine influenced but by and large, it's English Baroque, NeoClassical. However, Westminster Cathedral (NOT Abbey) is indeed Byzantine.

[@Dddezzz]

It would be cool if you interviewed Fr. Donald Calloway. He wrote a book about St. Joseph. I think you would enjoy having a conversation with him. Plus, he has an epic conversion story

[@sadie4538]

Yes his conversion story is awesome!

[@lucyrestivo87]

I add to Matt’s question as to if the Eucharist would not ever in the tabernacle and I thought on Good Friday the tabernacle is empty.

[@bessonnet]

That's what i like to watch each time i enter a Church, a cloister, an abbey in France. Finding the details, the parabols represented, the stories narrated

[@kerimurphy4240]

I'm fascinated by the craftsmanship and history. Unfortunately there's only less than 100 or so of gothic churches from the 1800s in the United States.

[@Rorschached]

With regards to moving the tabernacle from the altar, Vatican II did not mandate changes in the placement of the tabernacle. As a Catholic, I'm glad to see more and more churches returning the tabernacle to its central place of prominence behind the altar. It sends a clear message that the summit and focus of Mass is our Lord, not the priest. Additionally, adoration chapels serve the purpose of making our Lord accessible to the people for adoration, while maintaining the tabernacle's rightful place of prominence at the front of the church behind the altar.

[@jimreilly917]

Now, the priest needs to turn around again and face Ad Orientem during Mass. He has not turned his back on the congregation but addresses prayers directly oriented physically to Jesus in the Eucharist, in the Tabernacle. VII screwed up so much of the liturgy and sacred theology of the Church…or rather the spirit of VII which people used as excuse to chuck sacred traditions and prayer forms.

[@bendover2425]

I go past this church all the time. It surely is an amazing sight

[@tommaxwell429]

OMG! I'm crying! Love this video because of the mutual respect and genuine interest in understanding. God Bless!

[@Brodeagainstempire]

This took me back to visiting The Cathedral Basilica of the Assumption in Covington, Kentucky. If you ever get the chance I HIGHLY recommend visiting. That place is the most beautiful church I have ever walked into. It had some of the best craftsmanship of every medium: woodwork, stonework, stained glass, etc. I also appreciated the piece depicting St Joseph a lot. The thought that goes into those pieces is part of why I respect the long history that comes with a faith like the catholic church

[@PInk77W1]

I’ve heard of it, but haven’t been

[@titob.yotokojr.9337]

The previous bishop of my place had the Tabernacle of the cathedral moved to a side chapel so people could continue to worship before it without disturbing what's going on at the main altar. But the present bishop moved it back to the main altar after the construction of the Eucharistic Adoration Chapel where people can worship regardless of what's going on inside the cathedral.

[@JeffFister123]

Incredible! So nice to see our Church through the eyes of another. This is our family's spiritual home… my parents were engaged there, my wife and I were married there, as well as our daughter. Now I can't wait to go to SFX on Sunday and tell my family some things I never knew!

[@CroweDharmaReloaded]

I'm a Catholic in the Netherlands. Very rarely the tabernacle is NOT in the middle (in my experience). In my church the Eucharist is only moved to a side altar/tabernacle on White/Holy Thursday untill Easter Vigil.

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

@@PTHazel I can tell you more about our ID and birth certificate program. When folks who are going through a tough time--out of homelessness, or some other hardship--lose their documentation, it costs around $25 to get replacements. Lack of ID makes it a challenge to get a job, housing, etc. So we decided that, just as many churches will run a food pantry or other concrete ways to help neighbors in need, we would commit to helping people who need assistance getting replacement IDs.

[@sadie4538]

Totally agree. It’s the Holy of Holies. Why would anyone consider moving the Eucharist off to a side altar? SMH.

[@363catman]

@NPR Sucks! If you get in the details of the why the changes were made regarding the tabernacle move the term you will see is something along the lines of a chapel of repose basically this was something that existed in large cathedrals & basilica Look at Saint Peter's itself there was never a tabernacle on the main altar under Bernini's baldachin. They were essentially a Mini church or mini chapel unto themselves within the building and while there was probably some well intended good thinking in practicality most churches were not laid out (size & space) to where this was conducive to the idea

[@jowr2000]

The Church is stunning. The aftermath of Vatican II has been a disaster. In the name of "accessibility" and "inclusivity", not only have cherished traditions fallen by the wayside, but even some moral doctrines have been called into question. The Church is not supposed to change to accommodate secular culture, but should stand firm for absolute truth.

[@jimreilly917]

But…but…what is a woman?🙄🥴🤡

[@jowr2000]

@@jimreilly917 😂😂

[@Sarah-fe1hh]

Wow Thank you for featuring this church ⛪ 🙏. God bless you Matt.

[@dodg1988]

Well Ruth seems like one of the kindest people on the planet

[@amandacline8108]

Love your vids on the different churches. While you were at St. Louis you should have stopped at the cathedral basilica of St. Louis too. Some of the most overwhelming beautiful mosaic work I’ve ever seen. Absolutely awe struck me. Worth the trip.

[@real82it]

Love these episodes. Makes me imagine what it will be like to worship in heaven! Can’t wait! Thx.

[@thepianoman6958]

Definitely should check out St. Francis de Sales Oratory there in St. Louis! It's run by a traditional institute.

[@willmartin5183]

Matt, the most didactic high altar I've ever seen was in the Notre Dame Basilica in Montreal. I've been to Rome and Paris but that high altar was the most incredible I've ever seen, and highlights the foreshadowing of the Eucharist sacrifice through many of the events in the Old Testament. I'm happy to send pictures and captions to you if you're interested in seeing them. (Of course pictures don't do them justice!)

[@TheMickey1892]

I’ve been to Montreal‘s Notre Dame basilica, too, and I have to agree with you. Words fall short.

[@mauriciorv228]

That church is unbelievably beautiful.

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

Thank you! It is a great blessing to be able to steward it.

[@DLantz-ow1ii]

I am SO happy you went here, I am getting my Masters in Theology at Xavier University in Cincinnati, OH another Jesuit school and I love our chapel, Bellarmine Chapel, we have, as well as the Jesuit theology. It really has played an important role in my theological development. Happy Advent!

[@angelapancella6063]

I spent many years in Norwood living just down the street from Xavier University, and know many people in Bellarmine parish. It's such a wonderful community!

[@cameronaustin7734]

I went to SLU and college church is very pretty and well taken care of, but if you are in St. Louis don't leave without visiting St. Francis de Sales oratory while you are there! It is one of the most remarkable and magnificent gothic churches in the country with an even more beautiful building than college church. It is also run by the Institute of Christ the King and is reknowned throughout the whole country for having one of the most beautiful traditional liturgies anywhere.

[@dinofrangiamore]

This was really cool Matt, on many levels, architecture, history, Christianity, the stuff on Francis of Xavier, and so forth. I became a huge fan of cathedrals in junior high, visited Notre Dame in France many years later...the gothic revival movement is very intriguing...all the detail in this particular church, the windows, the sculptures, the towering ceilings and majestic archways...actually being inside that monumental work of art was no doubt an awesome experience, as your enthusiasm shows. Great job! Thank you!

[@CaptGiboo]

This is great! I went to SLU, so it was wonderful to see you tour this beautiful church that I’ve been to so many times! During the school year, try and attend the 10 pm Sunday Mass (if they have it still). It’s the student Mass. It will lift your heart and soul. I miss that Mass. As for the criticism on here about the tabernacle, etc…I definitely lean towards traditional views, but I can’t criticize these people. The Jesuits were good to me, and the education I received at SLU most certainly kept me on the right path. I probably would have lapsed as a Catholic had I not attended such wonderful theology courses there. God bless you, the College Church and SLU!

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

God bless you too! Yes, the student Masses are amazing. Currently they are held every Sunday the university is in session, at 4:30 and 8 pm.

[@tedpuckett8066]

Horrible theology n 73; de Chardin.

[@jeffabernathy8305]

The true beauty of this church is during Sunday evenings during the school year. While Ruth spoke well of the Parish that worships there during the day, the other community that worships there during the school year is college students. And that church is very full with 18-25 year olds every Sunday. The beauty of the youth of the Church combined with the beauty of the church is quite the sight to see.

[@josephh.7109]

I couldn’t agree more, I loved those Sunday night services. Everyone was there because that was where they wanted to be. That was the first time many actually chose to go on their own. My roommate was even baptized in that font.

[@tedpuckett8066]

They're too lazy to get up early.

[@peterjones7984]

If you visit this beautiful church, you should also visit the St. Louis Cathedral Basilica, it's right down the street and is another Old World style Cathedral that is absolutely stunning.

[@MulletDestructur]

YES! Under Jewish law, Joseph had every right to not only divorce Mary and say no, I’m not going to take her as my wife, but he was supposed to have her stoned for adultery. He chose to keep his betrothal to her and show mercy in a way that still would keep justice intact. A foreshadowing of what Jesus does for us! It’s a really beautiful picture.

[@jacobc6556]

Yes, and St. Joseph is the patron Saint of a happy death because he died with both Mary and Jesus at his side!

[@kissun.13]

I mean, Joseph did actually consider divorcing Mary discreetly. He only changed his mind when he received divine intervention from God (which is the only way Joseph can be convinced, understandably so). Otherwise I think he would've gone through with it and leave Mary in a difficult position.

[@ptalteredcrafts7228]

We live about 85 miles west of STL. It’s breathtaking. If you want to visit another beautiful Catholic Church, Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal in Perryville, MO is open for guided tours & photos. It’s just beautiful. God bless!

[@babyboy1971]

This lady reminds me of Caroline Myss, also a theology expert. And she reminds me of some of my Midwest (Chicago) family. She is terrific!

[@angelapancella6063]

Something I love about College Church is the way it helps me keep in mind the mystery of the Incarnation. The wood altar with an ornate high altar in view behind it reminds me how Jesus humbled Himself all the way to a scandalous death, a self-emptying that becomes present at every Mass. And our tabernacle is likewise both unassuming and attended to by adoring angels. It calls to mind John 1:14--"the Word became flesh and dwelt among us"--"tabernacled" with us.

[@samuelunderwood5286]

Matt, if you're in the Lou, you gotta visit the Cathedral Basilica of St. Louis, the Old Cathedral, and St. Francis de Sales.

[@florepetrus5153]

Hey Matt! If you ever make it back to St. Louis and want to visit another breathtaking gothic church please come to St. Francis de Sales Oratory. You may be interested in their preservation of the traditional Latin rite and the monastic priest of the institute of Christ the King that call this beautiful oratory their home

[@cameronaustin7734]

This ^

[@joanofarc6402]

I work in an old Catholic Church outside Chicago and I’m still amazed Our Lord gave us such beauty to visit Him daily. Excellent video. Thank you. 😇😇😇🙏🏻

[@alBngnnuyn8070]

I really want to visit and see the interior of church in person, one day.

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

Please do! We have daily Masses Monday through Friday, and the church is open for quiet prayer during the week until mid-afternoon. We have weekend Masses on Saturdays at 5:15 and Sundays 8 am and 10:30 am.

[@alBngnnuyn8070]

@@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch Thank 😊 you so much for the information.

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

@@alBngnnuyn8070 You are welcome! God bless you!

[@bebetonguga]

Thanks for these viedos, Matt. They DO help in every sense. Blessings!!

[@rebeccavalicoff1581]

And just down the street we also have the Cathedral! We in St. Louis MO are blessed with many beautiful churches!

[@sjmnic]

While I know the topic of the Virgin Mary can be difficult for some to understand, it helps me to concentrate on two aspects. First, Mary for me is the perfect Christian as she accepted everything God asked of her. Secondly, in the same way as with friends on Facebook or in a prayer circle, I ask her to prayer for me and my intentions to the Holy Trinity.

[@peterfox7663]

Do you ask your dead friends, too?

[@LB_die_Kaapie]

@Peter Fox We pray to recognised Saints.Not just any person.

[@peterfox7663]

@@LB_die_Kaapie So, dead people.

[@jamespowell_km_kchs]

@@peterfox7663 they are more alive than you and I are. To be in the presence of the Almighty….

[@peterfox7663]

@@jamespowell_km_kchs They are in the same state as anyone that has passed and is saved

[@flyingforfunUSA]

WHAT!!! Oh man i love that church! So glad you took the time to visit!

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

Thanks for the love! God bless!

[@gazoontight]

As usual, excellent content. Thank you.

[@lizf506]

God bless you, Matt. I will pray for you. Sadly, so many of those changes were terrible and shouldn't have happened. They were done "in the spirit of Vatican II." Now, happily a lot of churches are moving to put such lovely traditions back (Communion rails, the Tabernacle in the Center and so on) and to restore the things in the church that fit with the old rite of of the mass. (The Traditional Latin Mass.) It's a lovely church and it's fun to see it. p.s. I think St. Joseph was young, not old.

[@mariahinderscheid6535]

This is so beautiful and Majestic. Praise God,a true testament of the Catholic Faith..

[@TabbyCat69]

This was amazing so glad I found your channel ❤ Thank you for sharing

[@Cathodoxism]

Thanks for this video!

[@GemaEnriquez]

BRING BACK THE STATUES AND THE COMMUNION RAIL !!!!

[@rickbruno3975]

I love your videos. Thank you!

[@lesmen4]

I want more like this. Be where you are.

[@apostolicapologetics4829]

Beautiful! The way a Catholic Church should look.

[@SocalNewsOne]

i want to thank you so much for all of the work you are doing! i am a newly confirmed Catholic that just converted last year after being married to a Catholic for over 30 years. I am on a personal journey to learn all I can about the Catholic faith and as many other faiths as possible. This church just moved to my number one spot of places to visit. Thank you again for your other videos and keep up the great work. Your openness and knowledge are compelling. On a side note, one of my favorite Catholic content producers is Father Mike Schmitz. If you get the chance to watch his videos he has got to be one of the most influential new media evangelists. God Bless!

[@empackmanmueller1725]

Congratulations and welcome home. May I recommend Scott Hahn and his book The Lambs supper, and home sweet Rome. The st. Paul center is wonderful out of university of Steubenville. Keith Nester is also amazing convert. Godbless you and your family.

[@empackmanmueller1725]

Also as a new Catholic I would recommend Shrine of Immaculate conception in DC. It's the largest Catholic church in the Western Hemisphere. It's on the campus of Catholic University, right around the corner from Pope John Paul II center.

[@AnthonyGregor]

i just found your channel and i love it and i love you. may god bless you and your channel.

[@stephenbastasch7893]

Thanks for another lovely, informative show. I had not known that it has become customary to move the tabernacle from the central altar or reserve location to a place more "withing the community". I was raised in the pre-Vatican II Church and the Hosts were kept over the altar in the center of the nave, with some in reserve in a less ornate tabernacle off to the side of the altar. I was cheered to hear that some pastors are still allowed to keep the tabernacle in the center of the sanctuary, like we did it in "the old days".

[@coolerking04]

In fact she was wrong in this point, most churches have the tabernacle in the center. In places where it was moved aside, younger priests are typically restoring tradition. Jesuit churches tend to be glaring exceptions

[@stephenbastasch7893]

@@coolerking04 Okay - thanks for the hopeful update/clarification on this!

[@brendaboykin3281]

Thank you,Matt and beautiful guide🌹🌹🌹🌹

[@donnariggs1567]

Thank you for this tour. Beautiful! I live south of ST Louis for 25 years now. I have gone past this church and never imagined how amazing it is on the inside. Such craftsmanship!!!

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

Thank you for the kind words! You are always welcome to stop in--we keep the doors open Monday through Friday until early afternoon, and we have weekend Masses at 5:15 on Saturdays and 8 and 10:30 on Sundays.

[@donnariggs1567]

@@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch How kind, thank you! It would make a lovely day trip and then hit the Hill for some local food, also. Merry Christmas God Bless!

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

@@donnariggs1567 Sounds like a very fun day trip! Merry Christmas to you too!

[@donnariggs1567]

@@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch I'm going to bring it up to the girl friends for a spring thing. I think St Louis has so much to offer. Cheers!

[@Runguyt]

I enjoyed this video. The purpose of these beautiful churches is to help us experience the transcendent.

[@TheComputerCowboy]

Hope you stopped by the Cethedral Basilica while you were a mile down the road. The mosaic there is amazing.

[@debbiesluss9849]

Thanks for doing this Matt. Reason, art, faith, creativity, community, all gifts of our God turned into such a wonderful place with people who care about God's mission. Love to hear these stories.

[@gphodgins1]

Thank you Matt. God bless you my brother. Your videos' are a blessing. Pax Christi.

[@kristen1398]

If you're ever in NYC come check out the Church of St Francis Xavier in Manhattan! It's huge and beautiful on the inside but easy to miss if you're just walking down the street and its been part of NYC for 175 years.

[@kristen1398]

@@marym.338 The parish's mission statement says "The Church of St. Francis Xavier, a Roman Catholic parish in the Jesuit tradition, strives to be a prophetic, welcoming community, and an inclusive witness to the presence of Christ Jesus in our midst. Mindful of our utter reliance on God, and need for God’s grace, we rejoice together in our celebration of the sacraments and proclamation of the Gospel. As a people of hope, we commit ourselves through prayerful and creative discernment to respond to God in our time by: being a respectful community where seekers and their questions are welcomed, where injustice is challenged, where the poor, the alienated and the marginalized find a home, and where people are refreshed, reconciled and renewed." If those Gospel values can be easily divided into one political ideology, we're in a sad place as a church

[@MichaelNatrin]

Fascinating. Great video.

[@crystalrock18]

I live in Warren County Missouri I need to go by and check that place out. The basilica in Saint Louis is absolutely phenomenal I highly recommend anyone here here in the STL area to go see that.

[@paulcarter996]

There should be some clarity. Vatican 2 never said that the tabernacle should be moved off to the side. There are a few inaccuracies in her explanations.

[@ryandersones]

Nicely done Matt. I love your videos and how respectful you are. I pray for you to become Catholic but I'm glad you are taking your time and investigating everything. It reminds me of my own journey! God Bless!

[@pwct321]

Matt, have you noticed the Baptism pool for immersion at the entrance of the church next to the traditional font (for Baptism by pouring)?

[@PaulsWanderings]

I am so glad she explained about the placement of the Tabernacle on the side. My understanding was that must be in the center. The church in which I grew up and the church I go to now have the Tabernacle in the center behind the altar.

[@Derrick_Andrew]

St. Francis De Sales Oratory in St. Louis is the place to visit. Interview one of the Canons there. Such rich architecture and beauty there, plus a new organ

[@juanpaolovilladolid9550]

I enjoyed this a whole lot, god be with you, my brother.

[@jacobc6556]

It feels like this is building to a European tour of Cathedrals. At some point, it's the only way to top what you've already visited! 🙂

[@rhenemunez2775]

Hi Matt, when you have time and resource go visit Vatican and do an interview with Cardinal Tagle at Saint Peter's Basilica. Love your work!

[@charlesmcdermott6139]

This was very impressive! Thank you for respecting and understanding us Catholics and how we worship the same Lord Jesus Christ. May I suggest that you visit the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark, NJ. It is considered the best example of French Gothic architecture in the Western Hemisphere, and is even larger than St. Patrick’s in New York which is just across the Hudson! Thanks for this series.

[@RuachNation82]

Stunning church. Wow!

[@StFrancisXavierCollegeChurch]

Thanks! God bless!

[@MrBrucetho]

Thank you