Underneath the high altar of St. Patrick's Cathedral in New York City, in a dedicated crypt, lie the final resting places of several notable individuals. This sacred space primarily serves as the internment site for the spiritual leaders of the Archdiocese of New York, alongside one distinguished layman.
Burials in the Crypt
The crypt beneath St. Patrick's Cathedral holds a significant place in the history of the Catholic Church in New York. It is reserved for those who have played pivotal roles in guiding the archdiocese.
Archbishops of New York
The most prominent group interred within the crypt are the past Archbishops of New York. This tradition honors their legacy and their service to the faithful of the archdiocese. Currently, the crypt is the final resting place for the past nine Archbishops of New York, reflecting a continuous line of leadership within the church.
The Venerable Pierre Toussaint
Unique among those buried under the high altar is the Venerable Pierre Toussaint. He is the only layman to be interred alongside the Archbishops. A former slave, Toussaint became a celebrated philanthropist and a pillar of the New York community in the 18th and 19th centuries, known for his charitable work and deep faith. His inclusion in the crypt underscores his profound impact and his revered status within the Catholic Church, leading to his declaration as "Venerable" on the path to sainthood.
The following table summarizes the individuals buried under St. Patrick's Cathedral:
| Category | Individuals Buried | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Clergy | The past nine Archbishops of New York | Spiritual leaders of the Archdiocese of New York |
| Laity | The Venerable Pierre Toussaint | A revered philanthropist and former slave, currently on the path to sainthood |
These burials highlight the rich history and spiritual significance of St. Patrick's Cathedral as a landmark in New York City.
