About Cathedral Of St. Mary Of The Immaculate Conception
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St. Mary's was founded in 1846 and is the oldest parish in the city of Peoria. The Diocese of Peoria was founded in 1875 and the first Bishop, Bishop Spalding, arrived in 1877. The diocese is composed of 26 counties, being the largest diocese in land mass in the state. Old St. Mary's was built in 1851 and razed in 1898. The painting above the tabernacle and the bell in the south tower are all that remains of old St. Mary's. The Catheral is neo gothic in design and has spires that reach to 230'. The stone of the Cathedral is called Anamosa white stone.
The Cathedral Schola
The Cathedral Schola is the primary English-speaking vocal ensemble that sings at Sunday morning 10:30am liturgy from September through the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. Membership is open to men and women. High school and college singers are encouraged to participate. Contact the Music Office for an interview. Rehearsals are on Thursdays from 7:00pm - 8:30pm.
