{"id":54,"date":"2023-08-25T18:36:23","date_gmt":"2023-08-25T18:36:23","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/elitemoldteam.com\/?page_id=54"},"modified":"2023-08-29T06:53:41","modified_gmt":"2023-08-29T06:53:41","slug":"the-cultural-shifts-and-rich-history-of-church-of-the-little-flower-in-coral-gables","status":"publish","type":"page","link":"https:\/\/elitemoldteam.com\/the-cultural-shifts-and-rich-history-of-church-of-the-little-flower-in-coral-gables\/","title":{"rendered":"The Cultural Shifts and Rich History of Church of the Little Flower in Coral Gables"},"content":{"rendered":"\n

This article explores the rich history and cultural transformations of the Church of the Little Flower in Coral Gables, Florida<\/a>.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Emphasis is placed on the evolution of the congregation, the architectural significance of the church, and its prominent parishioners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Additionally, the role of the Carmelite Sisters in the religious revitalization and the impact of the church’s community involvement and outreach programs are examined.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Founding of Church of the Little Flower<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The Church of the Little Flower<\/a>, established in 1926 in Coral Gables, Florida, was initially named in honor of Saint Th\u00e9r\u00e8se of Lisieux and held its first masses in St. Joseph’s Academy until the construction of a temporary church in 1928.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This shows the humble beginnings of a church that would later become a social and religious beacon in South Florida.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

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In 1932, the Sisters of St. Joseph transferred the deed of St. Joseph’s Academy to the parish, which subsequently became St. Theresa School.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The evolution of the church structures reflects the growth of the congregation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The present church, constructed in a Spanish Renaissance style in 1951, denotes the significant cultural influence on architecture and aesthetics.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The history of the Church of the Little Flower is marked by its resilience, growth, and adaptability.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Architectural Highlights of the Church<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Architectural elements of this notable religious structure, particularly its Spanish Renaissance style and stained glass windows designed by William Haley, contribute significantly to its aesthetic appeal and historic value.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The Spanish Renaissance style, characterized by ornate details and classical forms, imparts a sense of grandeur and solemnity to the edifice.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Haley’s stained-glass windows, with their vibrant colors and intricate designs, add an element of visual interest and spiritual symbolism.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The combined effect of these architectural features is a visually stunning structure that embodies both the cultural heritage of its congregation and the spiritual ideals of its faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The structure’s architectural significance is further amplified by its historical context, serving as a testament to the community’s perseverance and commitment to their faith.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Transformation of the Congregation Over the Years<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Over the years, significant demographic changes have been observed in the congregation of this prominent religious institution, with a shift from predominantly Irish-American members to a majority of Cuban and Cuban-American parishioners.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This transition was largely prompted by the influx of Cuban immigrants post the Cuban Revolution.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The impact of this demographic shift was multifaceted, influencing not only the ethnic composition but also the political leanings of the congregation.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Read more: The History of the Miracle Theater in Coral Gables, FL<\/a><\/p>\n\n\n\n

Concurrently, this transformation ushered in a religious revitalization, underscored by the arrival of the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles in 1991.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

As such, this metamorphosis within the congregation has indelibly shaped the cultural identity and religious commitment of the Church of the Little Flower.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notable Parishioners of the Church<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

Among the congregation of this religious institution, several individuals of significant public standing have been identified.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Notable politicians Marco Rubio and Jeb Bush were active parishioners during the 2016 United States presidential election.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The institution also witnessed the matrimony of Jeanette and Marco Rubio in 1998, further cementing its historical relevance.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Moreover, it hosted the funerals of distinguished figures such as Juan Gonzalez, Marta Permuy, and Marlene Kerdyk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

It thereby gained recognition as a significant socio-religious hub.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

The presence of esteemed parishioner Andy Gomez, a retired Professor of Cuban Studies at the University of Miami, further underscores the institution’s impact.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

Role of the Carmelite Sisters in Revitalization<\/h2>\n\n\n\n

The introduction of the Carmelite Sisters of the Most Sacred Heart of Los Angeles to the congregation in 1991 significantly contributed to religious revitalization.<\/p>\n\n\n\n

This move led to a profound transformation within the church community, fostering a renewed commitment to Catholic principles and practices.<\/p>\n\n\n\n