• Skip to primary navigation
  • Skip to main content

MarionMade

People, Places, Products, Programs

Visit Us On FacebookVisit Us On TwitterVisit Us On YoutubeCheck Our FeedVisit Us On Instagram
We Are Generous!We Are Having Fun!We Are Presidential!
  • Get Involved
  • About
  • Events
    • MarionMade! 5k Sign Up
  • People
  • Places
  • Products
  • Programs
  • Links
  • Contact

St. Mary Catholic Church

By MarionMade! on November 7, 2018

When Eber Baker founded Marion in 1822, a handful of Catholics lived in the area. By 1844, with a Catholic population of 100, Marion became a mission site and circuit-riding priests celebrated Masses in private homes. In 1854, the Huber Shop on Mill Street became the first permanent place of worship. On land purchased by Timothy Fahey in 1853, a new church was built and dedicated by Bishop Rosecrans. Before long, this building, measuring 70’ by 40’, could no longer serve the growing Catholic population and plans for the current church on North Main Street were underway. Built on land purchased by Father John Mackey, this magnificent edifice was completed in 1898.

Constructed of Berean sandstone, St. Mary Church was built in the Victorian Gothic style. Like many churches, St. Mary has undergone several renovations and repairs. The most recent renovation took place this year under the leadership of Father Thomas Buffer. This beautification included remodeling and gilding of the raredos, moving the tabernacle to its rightful place in the center, adding new side shrines for the church’s original statues of the Blessed Virgin Mary and Saint Joseph, elaborate decorative painting in the sanctuary, renovation of the priests’ sacristy, and replacement the school roof.

Along with the wish to create a beautiful place of worship for the faithful, the desire for education was ever-present. The first parish school opened in September 1875, also serving as the residence for three Sisters of Charity who taught there. A larger school was built in 1905 on Prospect Street and, in 1906, a new convent was built next door. By 1927, a new addition was needed on the school to meet the expanding Catholic population. St. Mary School, once the site of both elementary and high schools, continues to serve kindergarten through grade eight. The convent, now known as the Commons, is no longer the home of the sisters but provides office space for the staff and serves as a meeting place for parish activities.

An open house was held Nov. 11 to allow the community to admire the new sanctuary. St. Mary Church is located at 251 N. Main St.  The church office may be reached at 740-382-2118.

#MarionMade #WeAreFaithful

Recent MarionMade! Stories

  • Alloway – Environmental Services & More

    Incorporated in 1982, Alloway’s path to success began when owner, John Hoffman started his career at Alloway in 1979 as the sole laboratory analyst for the company. Two years later, John purchased the company and expanded the operation to include a total of 3 employees. Alloway continued to grow in size and analytical capabilities, and […]Read More »
  • John Butterworth

    This story has a special writer- Phyllis Butterworth, John’s widow.  It was an honor to have her share her memories of John, both are great examples of what it means to be MarionMade! It was September 2013 and John Butterworth sometimes wondered if he might be losing ground in his fight against the cancer that […]Read More »
  • G&R Tavern

    1,200-1,500LBS OF BOLOGNA A WEEK! If you’ve ever driven the stretch of U.S. 23 between Marion and Delaware, you’ve finally answered the question, “Where’s Waldo?” What you maybe didn’t know, is that some of the best food you can find is located here. The G&R Tavern, named after founders George Yake and Roy Klingel and […]Read More »
  • Survivor Supports Others Escaping Abuse with Turning Point Fundraisers

    When Melissa Jolliff wanted to escape an abusive relationship five years ago, she turned to Turning Point. “I never had to stay at the shelter, but the people there were very helpful. They guided me, provided resources and helped me get to the next chapter,” Melissa said.  POUND: Steps to Healing A friend’s invitation to […]Read More »

Share Your MarionMade! Story

Click Here to share your story about MarionMade! people, places, products, and programs!
  • Get Involved
  • About
  • Events
  • People
  • Places
  • Products
  • Programs
  • Links
  • Contact

Marion Area Convention & Visitors Bureau Downtown Marion Love INC Marion Public Library Marion Area Chamber of Commerce Marion CANDO! Marion Community Foundation United Way of Marion County Marion Technical College

© 2025 · MarionMade! is a community initiative led by Marion Technical College · Website is powered by Neighborhood Image