Barrett Showcases St. James' Architectural History At Lakewood Public Library

With its distinctive red tile roof and soaring towers, St. James Catholic Church is one of Lakewood’s most beautiful and well-known landmarks. On Wednesday April 3 at 7:00 p.m. in the Main Library Auditorium, Timothy Barrett will highlight St. James’ architectural history as well as discuss the challenges faced by its builders.

In the early 1900s Rev. Michael Leahy visited Italy and was overwhelmed by its beautiful cathedrals. He returned from Italy full of ideas. Begun in 1912 and completed in 1935, St. James was modeled after the Monreale Cathedral in Sicily, which is one of the world’s best examples of Norman architecture. St. James features many lavish architectural details, including columns crafted from Porta Santa marble.

As part of diocese-wide downsizing, St. James was closed on June 26, 2010. However, following a vigorous campaign by the Friends of St. James and an appeal to the Vatican, St. James was re-opened in July of 2012. The reopening service took place on the feast of St. James the Apostle and was attended by more than 1,400 worshippers.

Lakewood resident and church historian, Timothy Barrett wrote a 2003 book chronicling the history of St. James. Join Barrett as he showcases St. James’ architectural details and compares features of St. James with those of European Cathedrals. Barrett’s presentation on St. James Church will take place in the Main Library Auditorium at 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, April 3. Admission is free and open to all.