San Antonio basilica marks 100 years of parish history in 2026

The Basilica of the National Shrine of the Little Flower in San Antonio commemorates the 100th anniversary of its parish on November 14.

The building was constructed during the height of the Great Depression and modeled after grand European cathedrals. It opened in 1931 under the direction of the Discalced Carmelite Friars. Originally named the Our Lady of Mount Carmel and St. Thérèse Church, the structure was later renamed to honor St. Thérèse. The basilica holds the distinction of being the first shrine in the United States dedicated to the saint. She was canonized in 1925 by Pope Pius XI, only 28 years after her death.

The architectural design features a Beaux-Arts style with Moorish elements. Two towers face Zarzamora Street and are visible from Interstate 10, which sits more than half a mile away. The 96-foot north tower is crowned by a 7-foot bronze statue of St. Thérèse. Inside, the sanctuary contains colorful stained-glass windows and a classical arched ceiling. A central octagonal dome rises 75 feet and displays 24 roses, each symbolizing a year of the saint's life. The south transept houses a replica of her tomb in Lisieux, France. The building is one of 94 minor Catholic basilicas in the U.S. and one of four in Texas.

The parish was founded as a local church before receiving the basilica designation from the Pope. The honorary title is granted based on antiquity, historical importance, architectural beauty, or significance as a worship center. A basilica designation is distinct from a cathedral, which serves as the principal church of a diocese and the official seat of the bishop. Some churches, such as St. Anthony’s in Beaumont and St. Mary’s in Galveston, hold both designations simultaneously.

St. Thérèse is known as the Little Flower because she viewed herself as a small, humble wildflower rather than a grand rose. She advocated for performing ordinary tasks with love and trust. Her parents, Zélie and Louis Martin, were the first spouses canonized together. Her older sister, Léonie Martin, is currently a candidate for sainthood. The faithful often regard a single rose left anonymously at the site as a gift from the saint.

The church hosts Heritage Tours for the public. Docents explain the history and architectural details of the building during these visits. The next scheduled Heritage Tour is set for January 23, 2027. The parish will also celebrate the 29th anniversary of its dedication as a minor basilica on February 6, 2027.