The Basilica of St. Mary’s most lasting structure isn’t the wooden shed where its first parishioners attended Mass in 1868. Nor is it the majestic co-cathedral where parishioners now worship on the edge of downtown Minneapolis. Rather, its leaders say, it’s the Basilica community, who, for 150 years, have worshipped, served, welcomed immigrants and raised generations of Catholics while continuing to look outward to the needs of the city.

“The Basilica would not be what it is without the involvement of the people — not just on our parish council, the finance committee and our trustees — but without the people that make up the Basilica,” said Father John Bauer, its rector and pastor. The Basilica of St. Mary kicks off its 150th anniversary celebration the final weekend of September with two Masses celebrated by Archbishop Bernard Hebda Sept. 30. Over the next year, the parish will host a sculpture exhibit, Basilica wedding and school reunions, and a St. Vincent de Paul outreach program celebration.