Beautiful architecture is the standard in Nashville, Tennessee, where old Southern charm seamlessly mixes with a modern metropolis. The historic Church of the Assumption at 1227 7th Avenue North is no exception.
The church has a vibrant and exciting history. When construction originally began in 1859, it was meant to be a place of worship for the neighborhood's largely German population. They wanted to be able to practice their religious beliefs in their own language and with their own customs.
During the Civil War, the church was occupied by Union Troops and the bulk of the decorative elements were destroyed during war time. When the occupation was lifted, the first restoration of the church's aesthetic properties began.
This image shows the 1954 Feast of the Assumption, with the church in decorative glory. Over the next twenty years into the 1970s the church's condition declined and there was talk of closing it. But the pastor at the time, Fr. Bernard Neidergeses, was an experienced woodworker himself and saw the potential in the structure's aging beauty.
And so the next layer of restoration began a hundred years after the first.
From then on, restoration would be an ongoing effort. In 1984, a new copper steeple was added to mark the 125th anniversary of the house of worship.
The church offers a traditional Latin mass every Sunday as well as English masses throughout the week. Just as ornate churches have since the Middle Ages, the artistic beauty of the structure elevates the spiritual experience.
Preservation is the primary objective at this stage. The historic artistry of the property has lived on since its construction and present day repairs and upgrades are made with the goal of maintaining this legacy.
Throughout all of the care-taking and restoration, The Church of the Assumption has maintained a strong community of worshippers. For well over 150 years, the church has provided for the local community in a beautiful and joyful way.
Regardless of your spiritual status, The Church of the Assumption in Nashville is a moving historic landmark and a testament to the resiliency of the local community.
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