Visiting the Tomb

The faithful visit the shrines of saints to ask for a saint’s intercession, for inspiration and encouragement, and to renew and strengthen their faith. Father Emil J. Kapaun has been conferred the Servant of God title, the first step to sainthood. Because he has not yet been declared a saint his resting place is not a shrine but that of a tomb.

At his tomb, those who admire his priestly life and heroic death, look to him for consolation or guidance, or simply want to thank him for his sacrifice, may do so in a prayerful and holy place. We are honored to welcome you to the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception and the Tomb of Servant of God, Father Emil J. Kapaun.

Fr. Kapaun's Resting Place

Father Kapaun's remains were recently located in Hawaii after his death in a Korean POW camp on May 23, 1951, and returned to Kansas in September 2021. On Sept. 29th, 2021 his remains were entombed inside of the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Wichita, Kansas, within the Diocese where he was ordained. His tomb is located in the east transept of the Cathedral chapel. You are encouraged to visit the tomb, pray with his remains, and attend any Sacraments that are regularly scheduled during your visit.

In addition to the tomb, you will find an opportunity to tour our beautiful Renaissance Revival church, reflect in the outdoor courtyard garden and learn more about Fr. Kapaun's life and the history of the Diocese of Wichita in the gathering space. Also occupying the grounds are the Diocesan Chancery offices, Catholic Schools Office, and Catholic Charities of Wichita.

When planning your visit please note that the Cathedral is also a parish and may have parish events, such as weddings or retreats, taking place. If you are bringing a group we ask that you fill out the group reservation form below. This will allow us to better schedule your visit and ensure you have plenty of time to pray in the chapel.

When can I make a visit to Fr. Kapaun's Tomb?

PRIVATE VISITS

Private visits are available during the times below and do not require a reservation.

****Important Notice: Weekday Church Closure****

Beginning May 29, 2025, the church will be closed to all visitors during the week due to liability issues while work is being done on the domes. This will remain in effect until further notice.

Visitation Schedule:

• Weekdays: Closed
• Saturday and Sunday: Open for visitations to the church and Fr. Kapaun's tomb
  • Saturday: 8:30am-4:00pm
  • Sunday: See Mass schedule and by appointment only

We apologize for any inconvenience this may cause and appreciate your understanding and cooperation during this time. Thank you for your continued support.

Gathering Space doors are locked, please see the questions to access the code to enter found to the right of Gathering Space doors.
Code will open church door also. Access hours are as follows:

GROUP VISITS

Visits with more than ten people are considered a group. Please use this form to schedule a group visit.

Request A Group Visit

A number of Fr. Kapaun's personal effects, including the hand-carved POW cross and his Mass items, can be found at Kapaun Mt. Carmel High School in east Wichita. To learn more, including visiting hours, please click here.

We also encourage you to learn about his boyhood home of Pilsen, one hour and 15 minutes north of Wichita. In the midst of quaint farm country, you can visit their museum and the church where Fr. Kapaun served as an altar boy and young priest. To learn more about Pilsen visit: https://frkapaun.org/visit-us/

Participating in the Sacraments

All persons of faith are welcome to attend Mass and our liturgical activities. However, we ask that visitors who are not participating in Mass to wait until Mass is complete before visiting the Tomb. Our beautiful full choir, led by world-renowned opera singer Alan Held, can be heard at the Sunday 10 am Mass, with talented cantors at other weekend English Masses. Or join us for a spirit-filled Spanish Mass. We are grateful to worship and pray with you as part of your visit! You can find more information on Sacrament times here.

Address and Parking

430 N. Broadway, Wichita, KS 67202
Parking for vehicles and buses is available behind the church.
Please enter through the south door, off of Broadway Ave (indicated by the red arrow).
This is a handicap-accessible entrance.

Make the Most of Your Trip

For nearby restaurants, lodging, and other great things to do in Wichita visit: https://www.visitwichita.com/