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New Orleans, Orleans Parish / Religious sites

Holy Name of Jesus Church

A historic Jesuit parish in Uptown New Orleans, originally hand-built by carpentry-skilled priests and now situated on the campus of Loyola University New Orleans.

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Holy Name of Jesus Church
www.jesuits.org, og_image_www.jesuits.org

Where is Holy Name of Jesus Church located?

The church is located Uptown in New Orleans, Louisiana, on the campus of Loyola University New Orleans.

What is the history of Holy Name of Jesus Church?

Founded in 1892, the parish's first building was a Gothic structure made entirely of native wood and was built by six Jesuits skilled in carpentry. A new church was later erected and dedicated on December 9, 1918.

What is the interior of the church like?

The interior is described as a large room featuring pews, candles, artwork, and stained glass.

What is the church known for?

It is a Jesuit church that has been part of the fabric of New Orleans for over a century and serves as a stabilizing force in the community.

What should I check before going?

Use Gyde for context, then check official sources for current hours, tickets, construction, and closures.

What to know

Holy Name of Jesus Church is a cornerstone of the Uptown New Orleans community, situated on the campus of Loyola University New Orleans. The parish was founded in 1892, following plans announced in 1886 by Fr. John O’Shanahan, SJ, who served as the Superior of the New Orleans Province of the Society of Jesus. The origin of the church is a testament to manual labor and faith. The first building was constructed over six years by six Jesuits skilled in carpentry, using native wood to create a Gothic structure. This original edifice was colloquially known as the "Little Jesuits" church because it was smaller than the city's other Jesuit church, Immaculate Conception. This modest wooden sanctuary was blessed and dedicated on May 29, 1892, serving an initial congregation of approximately 70 people. As the community grew, a new church was erected and dedicated on December 9, 1918. This later structure offers a grander interior experience, featuring a large room filled with pews, artwork, candles, and stained glass. Today, the parish remains a stabilizing force in the city, supporting around 800 households and operating a school with an enrollment of about 500 students. The parish continues to operate under a mission to invite all people to experience the living and loving presence of Christ. This inclusive atmosphere has been noted by visitors from diverse backgrounds who have felt welcomed into the congregation during Mass.

Visitor tips

  • Visit during non-service hours to quietly admire the stained glass and artwork.
  • Be mindful of the campus environment as the church is located within Loyola University New Orleans.
  • Dress modestly when entering the sanctuary to respect the active parish community.

Nearby context

Located in the Audubon neighborhood of Uptown New Orleans, the church is integrated into the academic environment of the Loyola University New Orleans campus.

Sources

Evidence and links