Transformation of the
Cathedral of Saint Joseph Campus
About Cathedral Campus:
Milestones Achieved
A Welcoming Sanctuary and Community Hub
As the spiritual center of the Archdiocese of Hartford (AOH), the Cathedral campus plays a significant role in fulfilling critical needs within the community. For nearly seven years, The Hartford Bishops' Foundation (HBF) has been dedicated to supporting the restoration of the Cathedral of Saint Joseph and the Cathedral of Saint Joseph's Campus in the Asylum Hill neighborhood of Hartford.
Our Efforts to Date, Fulfilling Critical Community Needs
The Church's humanitarian efforts are exemplified through its presence at the Cathedral by providing essential food and clothing, medical care, a sanctuary, and more. The Cathedral Community Center now houses a stationary Malta House of Care Clinic which has tripled its capacity to serve uninsured adults. The Cathedral Food Pantry and Cathedral Clothing Bank also has a home to offer nutrition, sustenance, clothing, household goods, and furniture to more than 300 families/residents weekly.
Preserving Heritage and Creating Serene Spaces
In addition to the restoration of the Cathedral's physical structures, efforts have been made to preserve its heritage and create serene spaces. The steeple, bells, and tower of the Cathedral have been lovingly restored, revitalizing its architectural beauty. Moreover, The Mothers' Garden and Donor Pavilion have been established as meditative gardens, providing a tranquil setting for rest and reflection. Plaques inscribed with the names of loved ones further enhance the park-like atmosphere, inviting the community to find solace and connection.
Cathedral Campus Next Phase:
Hoffman Hall: Repurpose, Reimagine, Reach Out
In keeping with the Cathedral Campus Master Plan, AOH continues in its effort to support human service ministries, community nonprofits, parishes, and Catholic schools, by providing a safe, accessible, and modern gathering space. Located in the lower level of the Cathedral of Saint Joseph, Hoffman Hall, funded in part by The Maximilian E. & Marion O. Hoffman Foundation, will feature audio-visual systems, a commercial kitchen, and partitions with the capability of hosting groups as large as 800 and as small as 25 for education and training, conferences and meetings, and liturgical celebrations.
Hoffman Hall, Pre-renovation
Architectural Renderings of Hoffman Hall Renovations
Cathedral Campus Next Phase:
Borges Family Plaza
Reconstruction of the front plaza and creation of a drop-off point on Farmington Avenue to increase safety, accessibility and traffic control.
This year The Hartford Bishops' Foundation is raising funds to renovate the Lower Cathedral for use by parishes, Catholic education, and community groups.
With your support, we will complete the transformation of Cathedral Campus.