Church of the Little Flower

Church of the Little Flower is a prominent Roman Catholic parish located in Coral Gables, Florida. Established in 1926, the parish is dedicated to Saint Thérèse of Lisieux, known as the "Little Flower." The church is celebrated for its distinctive Mediterranean Revival design by architect Henry Hohauser and serves as a vibrant spiritual and community hub within the Archdiocese of Miami.

History

The parish was established in 1926 during the rapid development of Coral Gables by visionary George Merrick. The first Masses were celebrated in a temporary wooden structure, reflecting the early growth of the Catholic community in South Florida. The cornerstone for the permanent church building was laid in 1930, with construction completed in 1931 under the guidance of architect Henry Hohauser. The parish has been served by several religious orders, including the Augustinians and the Oblates of St. Francis de Sales, before being placed under the care of diocesan priests from the Archdiocese of Miami. Throughout its history, it has witnessed significant regional events such as the Great Depression, the Cuban Missile Crisis, and the growth spurred by post-World War II migration.

Architecture

Designed by noted architect Henry Hohauser, the church is a prime example of Mediterranean Revival style, which harmonizes with the overall aesthetic of Coral Gables. The exterior features a distinctive bell tower, stucco walls, and a barrel-tile roof. The interior is noted for its ornate altar, decorative stained glass windows depicting scenes from the life of Saint Thérèse, and a series of historic frescos. The architectural design incorporates elements reminiscent of Spanish mission churches, contributing to its status as a local landmark. The structure has undergone careful restoration and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2017.

Parish and community

The parish serves a diverse and active congregation within Coral Gables and surrounding areas of Miami-Dade County. It supports numerous ministries and organizations, including the Knights of Columbus, a vibrant parish school, and various outreach programs serving the homeless and immigrant communities. The parish is a central venue for major liturgical celebrations such as Holy Week and Christmas Eve, drawing participants from across the archdiocese. It also hosts annual events like the Feast of Saint Thérèse festival, which strengthens community bonds and fosters ecumenism with other local Christian churches.

Notable events

The church has been the site of several significant events, including a 1972 visit by Terence Cooke, then Cardinal of the Archdiocese of New York. It served as a spiritual refuge and community organizing center during crises such as Hurricane Andrew in 1992 and the COVID-19 pandemic. The parish celebrated its 75th anniversary in 2001 with a special Mass celebrated by Archbishop John C. Favalora. In 2017, its historical significance was formally recognized with its listing on the National Register of Historic Places, an event marked by a dedication ceremony attended by local officials including the Mayor of Coral Gables.

Associated institutions

The parish oversees several key institutions, most notably the Church of the Little Flower School, a NCEA-accredited elementary school founded in 1949. The Saint Vincent de Paul Society chapter operates a major outreach center providing food and assistance. The parish grounds also house a convent for the Sisters of the Holy Names of Jesus and Mary and the Archdiocesan Marian Center, which coordinates regional Marian devotions. These institutions collaborate closely with broader archdiocesan agencies like Catholic Charities and the University of Miami's campus ministry.