Welcome to St. Mary of The Annunciation – A New Albany Treasure

Nestled at 415 E. Eighth Street in New Albany, Indiana, St. Mary of The Annunciation has served as a beacon of faith, art, and community since 1874. Though it sounds like a grand institution, anyone who steps inside finds a warm, welcoming space where history and everyday life blend together.

How It All Began – A Little Group with a Big Dream

In the early 1870s, a small group of devoted Catholics in New Albany decided the town needed a special place for worship, fellowship, and learning. They pooled their resources, rolled up their sleeves, and began building a church that would serve both spiritual needs and the social life of the community. By 1874 the first stones were laid and St. Mary of The Annunciation opened its doors for the first Mass. From those humble beginnings, the church earned a reputation for beauty and craftsmanship, especially its eye‑catching stained‑glass windows and finely carved stone details.

Gothic Revival Charm – Architecture That Tells a Story

St. Mary’s is a classic example of Gothic Revival architecture, a style that echoes medieval cathedrals with a 19th‑century twist. Tall, pointed arches reach upward as if inviting the heavens, and the exterior is decorated with intricate stonework that catches the eye from the street. The soaring spire is a familiar landmark for locals, while the sturdy brick and stone construction has survived more than a century of Indiana seasons.

Natural light floods the interior through the stained‑glass windows, turning the nave into a living kaleidoscope of color. Even on a chilly winter morning, the glow from the windows makes the church bright and inviting—a reminder that beauty can be found in ordinary moments.

Stained‑Glass Masterpieces – Color, Light, and Storytelling

The stained‑glass windows at St. Mary’s are a highlight. Local artisans, many parish members, designed and crafted each panel with great care. Hundreds of tiny glass pieces are fitted together like a giant puzzle, each hand‑painted with scenes from Christ’s life, the Virgin Mary, and beloved saints.

A popular window depicts the Annunciation, showing a radiant Virgin Mary receiving the angel’s message. Vivid blues, glowing golds, and soft pinks seem to glow even without direct sunlight. Another favorite shows the Last Supper, where careful shading creates a sense of intimacy. For visitors and parishioners alike, these windows are visual sermons that convey faith lessons in a language beyond words.

Stone Carvings – A Testament to Hand‑Crafted Skill

Stone carvings around the church capture the imagination. Every column, arch, and lintel bears intricate motifs—crosses, crowns of thorns, and the ancient fish symbol. Skilled masons chiseled each detail to reflect devotion and artistry.

Walking along the aisles, the stone seems to tell a story. Delicate foliage patterns on the nave’s side walls echo nature, while bold, angular crosses remind visitors of steadfast faith. Even the smallest details, like leaf patterns on the pew ends, invite close inspection and quiet appreciation.

Daily Life at the Parish – More Than Sunday Services

St. Mary of The Annunciation is not just a beautiful building; it is a bustling hub of spiritual activity. The parish offers daily Mass, allowing early risers and night owls to pause for prayer. Confession is available throughout the week, providing a private space for reflection and reconciliation.

Education is a core mission. Children can join the vibrant Sunday School program, learning about faith through stories, crafts, and games. Adults have Bible study groups, spiritual retreats, and workshops on liturgical music and social justice. The parish office, staffed by friendly volunteers, always greets anyone who walks in with a question or request.

Community Events – Celebrating Together

St. Mary’s calendar is filled with community events. Throughout the year the church hosts festivals that bring neighbors together over food, music, and fun. The annual “Harvest Fair” features stalls of homemade pies, craft booths, and a lively band playing folk tunes that get everyone dancing.

Fundraisers, such as bake sales, charity auctions, and concerts, raise money for the church’s upkeep and charitable causes. The parish also organizes outreach programs that serve the broader New Albany community—food drives, clothing donations, and volunteer trips to local shelters—all bearing St. Mary’s commitment to service.

For Photographers and Artists – A Playground of Light and Form

Artists of all stripes find inspiration at St. Mary’s. The exterior, with its towering spire and detailed stonework, provides a dramatic backdrop for sunrise and sunset photography. Inside, the way light filters through the stained glass creates ever‑changing color palettes that delight painters and digital creators alike.

Photographers speak of the “golden hour” when the church’s stone façade catches a soft, amber glow, making the building almost ethereal. Interior shots highlight the contrast between deep shadows in the nave and the brilliant hues of the windows. The combination of architecture, light, and history offers a fresh visual adventure with every visit.

National Recognition – A Place on the Historic Register

In 2010, St. Mary of The Annunciation was listed on the National Register of Historic Places. This honor acknowledges the church’s cultural and architectural significance in the region. The designation protects the building’s unique features and ensures future generations can experience its beauty.

The listing also attracts scholars, historians, and tourists from across the country who come to see a prime example of Gothic Revival design and to explore the stories embedded in its stone and glass. For parishioners, it is a source of pride that their beloved church is part of the nation’s shared heritage.

Living Legacy – Faith in Action Today

Even with its historic status, St. Mary of The Annunciation remains alive and evolving. A vibrant youth group organizes service projects, while a tech‑savvy communications team streams Masses online for those who can’t attend in person. The church’s social media channels share daily reflections, event updates, and beautiful photos, bringing sanctuary peace to screens around the world.

Ongoing restoration of the stained‑glass windows, funded by community donations, shows the congregation values both preservation and renewal. Each repaired pane shines brighter—a symbolic reminder that faith, like glass, can be mended and strengthened after a crack.

Come See for Yourself – A Friendly Invitation

If you wander through New Albany, a visit to St. Mary of The Annunciation feels like stepping into a warm hug. Whether you are drawn by the architecture, the art, the sense of community, or simply a quiet place to pause, the church welcomes you with open arms. Join a Mass, explore the beautiful windows, or sit on a pew and soak in the serene atmosphere.

Stay Connected – Follow St. Mary of The Annunciation on Tabella

To keep up with the latest events, inspirational messages, and behind‑the‑scenes glimpses of parish life, follow St. Mary of The Annunciation on Tabella. It is the easiest way to stay in the loop, share your own photos, and become part of a growing online family that celebrates faith, art, and community every day. Join the conversation and let the spirit of St. Mary’s brighten your feed as well as your heart.