Blessed Sacrament Complex Study Report

The Boston Landmarks Commission has posted a study report on the proposed designation of the Blessed Sacrament Complex in Jamaica Plain as a Landmark under Chapter 772 of the Acts of 1975, as amended.

The Blessed Sacrament Church Complex merits recognition as a Landmark at the regional, state, and local level. The complex is a physical representation of the social and cultural history and significance of the Catholic Church in Boston around the turn of the last century and in the early 20^th century.

The five-building Complex includes:

the former church, convent, rectory, and
two former parochial schools: the Cheverus School and St. Norbert School.

Originally built between 1894-1926 to serve a growing Irish and German Catholic parish in this part of Jamaica Plain, the Church of the Blessed Sacrament and associated parish buildings represent an architecturally significant collection of buildings designed in a variety of period styles. The parish further evolved during the 20^th century to serve a diverse community in what is now known as Boston’s Latin Quarter. Despite being converted to new uses, the grouping retains much of its integrity of design, setting, materials, and workmanship. The scale of the church and its towering dome and belvedere, along with the massive pedimented façade, contribute to its significance as one of the most important Italian-Renaissance-style Roman Catholic churches in New England. In addition, the Cheverus School is one of the best examples of High Victorian Style architecture in Boston.

READ THE BLESSED SACRAMENT STUDY REPORT

(Report amended as of September 16, 2022)

The proposed designation will be discussed and voted upon at a public hearing on September 27, 2022. Please look for the meeting notice in the public notices section of our website.