W Parish History W

This inscription is found above the main entrance doors of St. Mary’s Church, and it serves as a reminder to those who pass through these doors that, as thousands have done before (including St. John Neumann), they are entering a place of God’s Holy Dwelling.

Established as a parish in 1840, St. Mary’s is the first Roman Catholic Parish in Phoenixville proper, and it ranks as the third oldest parish in Chester County.

Since the time of its founding, under the patronage of Mary, the parish has opened those doors of heaven by providing sacramental life for the faithful and by forging a rich enduring heritage and a proud history.

St. Mary’s welcomes all who pass through these "doors of heaven" not only to a Holy Dwelling place of the Lord, but also, to a worship setting that offers verdant charm and basic elegance. Parish membership is rightly proud of the church’s beauty, and of its heritage born of events that have passed into history while the Church remains ever faithful as a living monument and a lasting tribute to the Love of God.

The Church building will provide you with a delightful surprise. Outside, the structure would lead you to believe that you were approaching one of the Spanish Missions often found in the Western and Southwestern areas of our country. Once you have passed through those gates of heaven, you will encounter a décor where George Washington might feel right at home. You might even think that you are visiting a church in Olde City Philadelphia.

Blessed are you among women