Encyclopedia Dubuque
"Encyclopedia Dubuque is the online authority for all things Dubuque, written by the people who know the city best.”
Marshall Cohen—researcher and producer, CNN
Affiliated with the Local History Network of the State Historical Society of Iowa, and the Iowa Museum Association.
MARY'S DAY MASS FOR PEACE
MARY'S DAY MASS FOR PEACE. The beginning of the ecumenical movement, Dubuque's first Mary's Day Mass was held in ST. RAPHAEL'S CATHEDRAL after the entry of the United States into WORLD WAR II. People of all faiths crowded into the pews until there was standing room only. Following the singing of "The Star Spangled Banner" and "My Country, 'Tis of Thee," the Mass and sermon were presented by the Most Reverend Francis J.L. BECKMAN. The crowd was urged to support the nation's leaders and war effort.
The Mass became an annual event held on a Saturday early in May. As it was then, the event was been sponsored by the CATHOLIC MOTHERS' STUDY CLUBS and the Catholic alumnae. The record for offering the most Mary's Day Masses belongs to retired Archbishop James J. BYRNE who addressed audiences fourteen times.