The Archdiocese of Quebec has begun construction on a holy door for its Basilica-Cathedral Notre Dame de Quebec, the first Catholic parish in French-speaking North America.

The holy door will be the first holy door in the Americas, and only the seventh in the world.

It will open Dec. 8 and remain open until Dec. 28, 2014, for the jubilee year marking the 350th anniversary of the cathedral.

The door reminds North Americans of a landmark of faith on the continent, said a statement from the archdiocese.

Quebec artist Jules Lasalle sculpted the door.

The exterior will include a welcoming Christ with an illuminated cross that reaches from side to side.

On the inside, the door depicts Mary.