CATHEDRAL MUSEUM

The Cathedral Museum, located inside the Cathedral Center, features memorabilia of the early bishops of the diocese and pastors of the Cathedral, historical documents, liturgical vestments, and vessels of the pre-Vatican II era.  The museum also commemorates the persons and events that contributed to the history of St. John Cathedral Parish which spans 185 years.  Included in the exhibit are the official diocesan and papal documents which established both the parish in 1821 and the diocese in 1918.  In addition to photographs and books of priests who have served in the parish are memorabilia of four notable persons who are buried in the church or its cemetery: Bishop Jeanmard, first bishop of Lafayette; Bishop Schexnayder, second bishop of Lafayette; Bishop Gerald Frey, third bishop of Lafayette; and Ambassador Jefferson Caffery, ambassador to France.

Exhibits of Special Interest:

• Hanley-Gueno Neapolitan Presepio, an outstanding collection of Baroque Neapolitan creche
• Created on January 11, 1918, the Diocese of Lafayette celebrates it’s 90th anniversary this year. Our feature exhibit includes numerous artifacts and a photo of young Bishop Jeanmard at age 37.
• Made possible by the family of the late Bishop Gerard L. Frey, our newest exhibit features his liturgical vestments, a crosier and miter, and photographs.  His Episcopal cross and chalice were rescued from the mud and debris after his home in Bay St. Louis, MS was blown away by Hurricane Katrina.  The chalice is being repaired and will soon be added to the exhibit.

Our Gift Shop offers cards, artwork, jewelry, handcrafted items, and small gifts, all modestly priced.  Many religious items, music CD’s, and books are for sale.  For church holidays and for sacramental ceremonies, seasonal and appropriate items are for sale. 

“A History of the Cathedral of St. John the Evangelist” contains a wealth of information and beautiful photographs of the Cathedral that will delight visitors and parishioners alike.  Photographs are the work of photographer, Jay Faugot, life-long resident of Lafayette.  This 79 page book is available for $8.00 in the Gift Shop or may be pre-ordered and shipped to your home for $10.50 .

 The Museum & Gift Shop is open Monday- Friday, 9:00 AM – Noon & 1:00 PM – 4:00 PM.

Pre-arranged tours are available of the Cathedral, St. John Oak, the Cemetery, and Cathedral Museum.  Please call us at 337-232-1322 to schedule a guided tour two weeks prior to your visit.

Adults                                  $3.00