St. Boniface Catholic Church

St. Boniface Catholic Church in Sioux City, Iowa, stands as a testament to the rich cultural and religious heritage of the local community. Nestled in a residential area just west of downtown, this historic church has been a cornerstone of faith and tradition since its inception in the late 19th century. The parish buildings form a nationally recognized historic district, celebrated for their architectural beauty and historical significance.

The History of St. Boniface Catholic Church

The story of St. Boniface Catholic Church begins in December 1885, when a group of German Catholics in Sioux City convened to establish a new parish. This marked the formation of the city's second parish. The fledgling community purchased two lots at the corner of West Fifth and Main Streets for $1,500, and by Christmas Eve 1886, the Rev. John A. Gerleman was appointed as the parish's first pastor. The first Mass was celebrated in a modest frame church on July 17, 1887, the same year the parish school opened, staffed by Franciscan Sisters from Dubuque, Iowa.

Initially part of the Diocese of Dubuque, the parish became a member of the newly formed Diocese of Sioux City in 1902. In 1906, the Franciscan Friars from the Sacred Heart Province began serving the parish, with Rev. Seraphin Lampe, OFM, assuming the role of pastor. Plans for a new church were soon underway, and by September 4, 1911, the new Romanesque Revival-style church, designed by Brother Leonard Darschield, OFM, was dedicated by Bishop Philip Garrigan. The same year, a new convent was built, mirroring the architectural style of the church and rectory. Although the convent was later demolished in 1993 following a fire, the church and rectory remain standing as proud symbols of the parish's enduring legacy.

Exploring St. Boniface Catholic Church

Visitors to St. Boniface Catholic Church are greeted by an impressive structure measuring 160 by 80 feet, with a towering 162.5-foot spire that once made it the tallest building in Sioux City. The church's exterior is adorned with brick from Buffalo, New York, and trimmed with Bedford limestone, creating a striking and symmetrical facade. The north and south elevations feature four roof dormers each, while the east elevation boasts a rounded apse.

One of the church's most captivating features is its 66 stained glass windows, crafted in Munich, Germany, in 1910. These windows, including round-arch and rose windows, bathe the interior in a kaleidoscope of colors, enhancing the spiritual ambiance. Inside, the rib-vaulted ceiling soars 54 feet above the floor, creating a sense of grandeur and reverence. The original wood altars, carved by a Franciscan brother, add to the church's historical charm. The high altar is adorned with statues of St. Boniface and St. Patrick, while side altars feature statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph.

The Parish School and Power Plant

The present school building and heating plant, designed by prominent Sioux City architect William LaBarthe Steele, were completed in 1924. The two-story brick school building reflects the architectural style of the church, with a projecting center bay on its north elevation that houses the main entrance. Over the years, the building has undergone various alterations, yet it continues to serve as a vital part of the parish community. Directly behind the school building stands the simple, two-story brick power plant, featuring a 98-foot concrete smokestack, a testament to the practical needs of the parish's early years.

A Community of Faith and Tradition

St. Boniface Catholic Church has been more than just a place of worship; it has been a hub of education and community life. The Sisters of the Living Word began staffing the school in 1975, and in 1987, the schools from St. Boniface, St. Joseph, and the Cathedral of the Epiphany consolidated to form Holy Family School. This consolidation mirrored the clustering of the three parishes, fostering a sense of unity and shared purpose among the faithful. Today, weekend Masses are celebrated in both English and Spanish, reflecting the diverse and inclusive nature of the parish community.

In conclusion, St. Boniface Catholic Church is not just an architectural gem; it is a living testament to the faith, resilience, and dedication of the Sioux City community. Its walls echo the prayers and hopes of generations, and its doors remain open to all who seek solace, inspiration, and a deeper connection to their faith. Whether you are a history enthusiast, an architecture aficionado, or a spiritual seeker, a visit to St. Boniface Catholic Church promises to be a memorable and enriching experience.