St. Charles Borromeo Church is the largest parish church in the United States. The church was dedicated in a solomn ceremony on February 2, 2023 and attended by thousands of faithful catholics. The 33,983 square foot building is constructed in the Mission style architecture with 14” thick walls, heavy timber trusses spanning 81 feet, an overhead oculus and seating for over 3,100 visitors. The column-free space wraps around the altar with artwork adorning the walls. Visalia's agricultural roots are depicted in a mural behind the altar. The nearby national parks are represented in the tabernacle shell. It is made from redwood salvaged from a 250-year-old bridge in Yosemite National Park demolished due to its age. Though not parish churches, by comparison, St Peter’s Basilica in Rome has a seating capacity of 20,000 and St Paul’s Cathedral in London seats 3,500. “Behind us stands just a building, but today it becomes sacred ground. That’s a cause for great rejoicing,” Rev. Alex Chavez, the pastor at St. Charles Borromeo, said. “The beauty inside will draw many; those that come to the Sequoias, those that are Catholic, non-Catholic and even those who appreciate fine art. I believe they will make it a point to come and see the beauty that God has created through all those who have worked tirelessly.” For more information on tours: 396pcox@gmail.com
