The Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine will kick off festivities for the 452nd Anniversary of the founding of “America’s First Parish” on Sunday, August 27.  Bishop Felipe J. Estévez of the Catholic Diocese of St. Augustine, will be the principal celebrant at the 5:00 p.m. Mass in the Cathedral to begin the celebrations.

Following Mass at 7:00 p.m. in The Treasury on the Plaza, the 18th annual Augustinian Address will be delivered. This year’s presenter is the internationally acclaimed art historian, Elizabeth Lev. She will be speaking on how Saint Augustine of Hippo has been depicted in art over the centuries.

“Liz will be a fantastic speaker, whether you love art or not,” the Cathedral’s Rector, Father Tom Willis, said. “She has a knack of making art not only interesting but gets to the human aspect of each piece she speaks about.”

Since 2000, as part of the celebrations of its patronal feast day, the Cathedral has sponsored the Annual Augustinian Address. Past speakers have included Cardinal Timothy Dolan of New York, papal biographer George Weigel, historians Michael Gannon and J. Michael Francis as well as former Cathedral pastor and present Bishop of Birmingham, Ala., Bishop Robert Baker.

Another Mass will be celebrated at 7:00 a.m. in the Cathedral Basilica of St. Augustine on Monday, August 28 with Father Willis as the principal celebrant and homilist. Later the same day, at 6:00 p.m., Solemn Vespers will be held for the feast. Following the evening liturgy, a concert will be given by Cathedral organist, Shannon McKay, and the Cathedral Schola.

The public is cordially invited to attend all these celebrations. For more information, call the parish office (904) 824-2806 or email cathparish@gmail.com.