The Mother Church of the Diocese of Altoona-Johnstown is getting ready to roll out the welcome mat.
The historic Big Boy #4014 locomotive will be in the Altoona area July 8-11 as part of its nationwide tour in celebration of the 250th anniversary of the United States.
To greet the 30,000 people expected to be in the downtown Altoona area, the Cathedral of the Blessed Sacrament is opening its doors and spotlighting the landmark church and its historic Steinmeyer organ.
Free guided tours of the Cathedral will be offered on the following dates and times:
- Wednesday, July 8 from 9:00 a.m. to 8:00 p.m.
- Thursday, July 9 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Friday, July 10 from 9:00 a.m. to 5:00 p.m.
- Saturday, July 11 from 9:00 a.m. to Noon.
Each day, Mass will be celebrated at Noon in the Cathedral, and the Sacrament of Reconciliation will be offered at 3:00 p.m. and 7:00 p.m. on Wednesday, and 3:00 p.m. on Thursday and Friday.
Cathedral Music Director Robert Long will play the Cathedral’s Steinmeyer organ at various times throughout the days when the Cathedral is open for the special tours.
Union Pacific’s Big Boy #4014 is the world’s largest operating steam locomotive.
Besides the Altoona area, the tour includes events and stops in multiple cities and states.
