Welcome to Saint Mary: A Little Piece of History in Fort Wayne

Saint Mary sits proudly at 1101 South Lafayette Street in Fort Wayne, Indiana. It opened its doors in 1908 and has served the community for more than a century. Today the church remains a lively center of faith, community, and history. Visitors can explore its stained‑glass windows, attend Mass, or learn about the parish’s rich past.

A Quick Peek at Saint Mary’s History

The idea for Saint Mary began when a small group of Catholics in Fort Wayne wanted a permanent place of worship. Their plan was realized in 1908. Since then the church has welcomed generations of families for baptisms, weddings, first communions, and many other celebrations. The parish archives contain photographs, handwritten notes, and newspaper clippings that tell the story of a community that has grown together for more than a hundred years.

Architecture That Turns Heads

Saint Mary blends Romanesque sturdiness with Gothic elegance. Stone arches frame the entrance, and a tall steeple reaches upward, guiding travelers to the church. Intricate stone carvings and colorful stained‑glass windows adorn the exterior. Each window depicts saints or biblical scenes, adding beauty and meaning to the building.

Step Inside: A Warm, Inspiring Interior

Inside the church, wooden pews line the nave. The walls are covered with vibrant murals that bring biblical stories to life. The altar features carved wood, brass candleholders, and hand‑painted Stations of the Cross. A high vaulted ceiling with decorative ribs creates a sense of spaciousness and reverence.

Learning at Saint Mary Parish School

Saint Mary Parish School serves students from nursery through twelfth grade. The campus offers modern classrooms with smartboards, tablets, and science labs. Teachers act as mentors, combining academic rigor with character building. Students participate in art projects that decorate the church, and community service trips that help neighbors.

The Vibrant Community Around the Church

The parish hosts social events such as potluck dinners, prayer groups, and seasonal celebrations. Volunteers can cook, organize, or simply listen. Small groups meet in the parish hall to discuss faith, saints, and contemporary issues. These gatherings foster a strong sense of belonging and encourage families to consider Saint Mary their spiritual home.

Annual Saint Mary Festival: A Day of Fun for All Ages

Each year the church grounds become a lively festival. Music, food stalls, carnival games, and local artisans fill the area. Kids play in bounce houses and enjoy face painting. Adults relax with lemonade or wine. The festival is a community celebration that brings families, friends, and newcomers together.

Arts, Crafts, and Creative Expression

Saint Mary supports local artists and craftsmen. Rotating exhibits on the church walls showcase watercolors, wood carvings, and other works. The parish also hosts musical recitals, choral performances, and poetry readings. Workshops allow people of all ages to explore their creative talents.

Guided Tours: Walk Through History

Visitors interested in history can request guided tours. Volunteer guides share stories about the original architects, the meaning of stained‑glass symbols, and personal moments that have shaped the parish. Tours also highlight recent restoration projects that balance historic preservation with modern needs.

Plan Your Visit

Saint Mary is located at 1101 South Lafayette Street, Fort Wayne, IN 46806. The parish can be reached at 260‑422‑0625 for information on Mass times, school tours, or upcoming events. The welcoming staff is ready to answer questions and help newcomers feel at home.

Come Join the Fun—Follow Saint Mary on Tabella!

To stay updated on events, volunteer opportunities, and school news, follow Saint Mary on Tabella. The Tabella community delivers updates directly to your feed, allowing you to share experiences and connect with others who care about faith, education, and community. Join today and become part of the conversation.