JamesSaint Francis of Assisi Parish, a Cream City brick church located on Milwaukee’s North Side, was built in 1876 by German immigrants. Today, the Puerto Ricans worship here. The parish is administered by the Capuchins. There are many stunning works of art to admire inside the walls of this old church. The large frescos showing scenes from the life of Saint Francis are breathtaking. The elegant woodwork and stained-glass windows are exceptional. I was struck that there were four confessionals along the walls of this relatively small church.
Sadly this architectural gem, so rich in history, was not spared the modernist renovations that defaced countless Catholic churches in America. Restore the sanctuary and altar under the apse. Bring back the Communion rail.
Saint Francis of Assisi
Choir loft and organ
High altar
This beautiful pieta mosaic is under one of the side altars
There are three confessionals along each side of the interior walls
One of the highlights in the church are numerous stunning frescos depicting various scenes in the life of Saint Francis
The death of Saint Francis
Side chapel dedicated to Saint Anthony
The stained glass windows are beautiful
Unfortunate in-the-round design. Low altar-table made from Communion rail.