history of the cathedral

IMMACULATE CONCEPTION PARISH
Founded 1878

When a group of people works and sacrifices together, laughs, cries, and prays together during their lifetime, they create a community with a common history and a rich heritage that becomes an essential element of their identity.

The people of Immaculate Conception Church remember a century of living. The earliest memories go back to the 1870's when the railroads came to Tyler, bringing with them a number of Catholics. Missionary priests made journeys on horseback from Nacogdoches and Palestine to minister to the steadily growing community. In 1878, this community was no longer considered missionary. It was at that time that Immaculate Conception Parish was established. By 1880, the Catholic population exceeded 200. Property was purchased at the corner of 'West Locust Street and North College Avenue and a small wooden frame church was built.

The population of Immaculate Conception Church continued to grow and involve itself in the wider Tyler community. There were times of adversity and misunderstanding regarding their identity in East Texas. Irish, German, Lebanese, and other immigrants continued to establish themselves as responsible citizens of Smith County in the best tradition of the American dream.

During the First World War and the subsequent years, it became evident, due to increased numbers, that the Catholic community had outgrown its facility. Father Patrick J. F. O'Beirne, pastor from 1914 to 1927, had already begun collecting funds for a new church. Before twenty years had passed, the discovery of oil brought to East Texas more people in search of employment, security, and stability. Among these were many Catholics. It now became a necessity of the Catholic people to have a new church facility.

In 1927, Father Sebastian A. Samperi became pastor. After repeated attempts to repair the old church for continued use, he redoubled his efforts to build a new one. He and the parishioners corresponded with Bishop Joseph P. Lynch of Dallas regarding plans to sell the property and purchase new property at Front Street and South Broadway on which to construct a new church. Several years of negotiation followed before approval was finally received. Through great sacrifices of wealth and energy, the new Immaculate Conception Church was built. It was dedicated on Sunday March 17, 1935. In 1949 and then again in 1978, it was renovated and re-decorated.

The structure, which was designed in the Spanish style is reminiscent of the Spanish heritage of Texas It stands with nobility and warmth at the corner of South Broadway Avenue and Front Street. Since its dedication, it has stood as a symbol of those first courageous people who gave so totally of themselves so that we might experience and share their Catholic roots and traditions.

In June 1978, the parishioners of Immaculate Conception celebrated the 100th anniversary of the parish. Three days of festivities were held during which the people continually gave thanks to God and to those who had gone before. Remodeling of the parish offices was completed in September 1984. New offices, a library, and a large meeting room were added. In December 1986, the basement of the church was named for and dedicated to Father Sebastian Samperi who was pastor when our present church was constructed.

The Tyler Diocese of East Texas was formed from portions of Dallas, Beaumont, and Galveston- Houston Dioceses in February 1987. Immaculate Conception Church was designated the Cathedral of the new diocese and is now officially known as the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception.