St. Patrick's Cathedral Reveals Mural Celebrating Immigrants

Wed Oct 22 2025 08:05:44 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

A stunning 25-foot mural at New York's St. Patrick's Cathedral honors immigrants, reflecting the city's rich diversity amidst ongoing federal immigration discussions.

St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York has unveiled a new 25-foot mural that celebrates the city's immigrant community, featuring historical and modern figures. Artist Adam Cvijanovic's piece aims to embody love and respect for all, capturing the spirit of unity amid the current federal immigration debate. Cardinal Timothy Dolan commended the mural for brightening the cathedral and honoring the contributions of various immigrant groups.

NEW YORK (AP) — New York's iconic St. Patrick's Cathedral has introduced a striking new mural that pays tribute to the city's immigrants.

The mural, which towers at 25 feet (7.6 meters) and adorns the entryway of this landmark, showcases both everyday immigrants and renowned historical figures. This artistic revelation comes at a time when federal immigration policies have sparked division across communities in the United States.

According to Rev. Enrique Salvo, the rector of the cathedral, the mural is not a political statement, but it does convey an essential message. 'We want anyone that comes in to feel loved and welcomed,' said Salvo, who is an immigrant from Nicaragua. 'It’s a reminder that it doesn’t matter what’s happening politically. We have to treat everyone with love and respect.'

The artwork, entitled 'What’s So Funny About Peace, Love, and Understanding,' not only resonates with the theme of inclusivity but also brightens the once dull space for the cathedral's estimated 6 million annual visitors, as noted by Cardinal Timothy Dolan, the archbishop who commissioned the work.

Dolan expressed the previous gloom of the entryway, stating, 'So, we thought at least we need to spark it up and get some illumination.'

The mural, crafted by local artist Adam Cvijanovic, pays special homage to Irish immigrants who played a significant role in the cathedral's construction. It features a depiction of the Apparition at Knock, a pivotal event that occurred in Ireland in 1879, coinciding with the cathedral's opening year. Various scenes illustrate the arrival of Irish immigrants, capturing their journey across the sea.

Furthermore, the mural showcases contemporary migrants alongside notable local figures such as journalist and activist Dorothy Day, philanthropist Pierre Toussaint, and Alfred E. Smith, the first Roman Catholic to receive a major political party's presidential nomination.

Cvijanovic also ensured to honor Native Americans within the mural, including St. Kateri Tekakwitha, recognized as the first Native American saint.

Dolan lauded the artist, describing it as 'an effusive ode to the greatness of this city and those who came here, and those who have turned into their leaders.'