St. Mary's Catholic Church

St. Mary's Catholic Church is a brick building in Helena-West Helena with a rose-colored exterior and large stained glass windows throughout. The interior features brass hanging lamps and a clear layout that creates a focused prayer space.

The first Catholic church in Helena was established by Lazarist missionaries and destroyed in 1854. A new wooden structure replaced it starting in 1856.

The Sisters of Charity of Nazareth established Sacred Heart Academy at St. Mary's in 1857, operating an educational institution until its closure in 1968.

The church sits in the downtown area and is easily accessible on foot, with parking available nearby for visitors. It remains active for services and community events, with doors open during regular hours for those wishing to enter.

The building was designed by a noted designer whose work received attention in design publications. This recognition proved influential in shaping his later career path in the field.

Location: Arkansas

Architects: Charles and Ray Eames

GPS coordinates: 34.52289,-90.59203

Latest update: December 13, 2025 17:06