It opened in 2002 and serves as the mother church for the Archdiocese of Los Angeles,[1] as well as the seat of Archbishop José Horacio Gómez.

There was considerable controversy over both its deconstructivist and modern design, costs incurred in its construction and furnishing, and the archdiocese's decision to build a crypt under the cathedral.

Soon after its completion, the diocese noted it to be of inferior construction quality and also too small for Los Angeles' rapidly growing population.

That cathedral was never built, however, as Cantwell died in 1947 and his successor, James Francis McIntyre, decided instead that building new parish churches and schools in the expanding metropolis was a more pressing need for the archdiocese.

The archdiocese contended that restoring the old cathedral to carry out its functions safely would cost $18–20 million, and had not received any pledges or donations for this purpose.

In December 1996, the archdiocese announced it was purchasing a 5.6-acre (2.3 ha) site between Temple Street and the Hollywood Freeway from Los Angeles County at a cost of $10.85 million.

Prominent of these appointments are the bronze doors and the statue called The Virgin Mary, all adorning the entrance and designed by Robert Graham.

In addition to the church, the cathedral grounds also include a mausoleum, gift shop, cafe, children's garden, conference center, and clergy residences.

Roger Cardinal Mahony's decision to build a new cathedral utilizing contemporary architecture drew criticisms from those who preferred the gothic revival stylings typical of preceding centuries.

Basil Church on Wilshire Boulevard, despite their smaller size, could perform the functions required of a cathedral with minimal additional cost.

They have served as a focal point for artistic and religious expression through their acquisition from local artisans of the adornments that distinguish and enhance the structure, and through the central role they have played in preserving and expanding the spiritual and liturgical teachings that define the Catholic faith.

This project will serve a vital role in our society - contributing to the architectural, religious and cultural persona of downtown Los Angeles".

[12] In response to protests staged during the construction of the cathedral, the cardinal's editorial for the Los Angeles Times, dated October 19, 1998, stated: "The Catholic Worker and others shortchange the poor when they adopt the stance that the Church should be attentive only to the material concerns of the needy.

The crypt mausoleum features a number of stained glass windows that were originally installed in Saint Vibiana's Cathedral.