Planted deep within what many refer to as the “West Side” of Grand Rapids, the Basilica’s story begins as two small lots of land on the corner of Fourth and Davis. St. Adalbert Parish was established after the construction began on a small wooden church in the summer of 1881. With the ever-growing Polish population and continued need for space, the church was enlarged only 10 years later in 1891. That ‘small wooden church’ no longer resides in the West Side of Grand Rapids. In fact, it was moved by horse-drawn wagon to Belmont, Michigan where it remained for nearly a century.
In its place, the Basilica was raised. Since its completion in 1913, the Basilica has continued to provide as a faithful beacon of the community. For more than 100 years, the Basilica — which means “royal” or “regal” in Greek — has provided an awe inspiring cornerstone to one of the oldest Grand Rapids neighborhoods. Its beautiful large bronze doors, massive stone towers and cross laden teal domes provide for an expanding and proud community of parishioners. The basilica attracts those of faith from across the state of Michigan and encompasses nearly 800 families between the St. Adalbert and St. James parishes.
As the ministry continues to grow, the Parish has continued to expand its services, space and capabilities. A former school has been converted into much needed office space, and the old convent has been renovated, now occupied by Steepletown Neighborhood Services, an organization which helps neighborhood families and individuals in need.
While the Basilica, its neighboring facilities and parishioners continue to expand, EPS has become an increasingly involved partner. With growth comes the reality of risk. For nearly 25 years, EPS has been the security integrator for the Basilica and its many entrusted properties. As the Basilica’s footprint on the ‘West Side’ has grown, so has EPS Security’s commitment as a security partner. Additionally, while most of the security systems utilized by the Basilica operate quietly in the background, more active security measures have been implemented to take a more proactive approach.
Head of the Basilica, Reverend Monsignor Stasker noted,
“As the Basilica became larger, so did the need for more protection to meet the needs of the parishioners and Basilica staff.”
The card access and intercom system has become a shining example of this effort.
Rev. Msgr. Stasker also noted the importance of how the card access system allows not only for restricted access throughout the facilities, but provides a complete record of entry. A feature which has become more important to the Parish as more dutiful and faithful organizations operate within Basilica facilities. Looking for more information on the Basilica? Visit their easy to navigate website at www.basilicagr.org.