Immaculate Conception

The Immaculate Conception Church in Historic Halifax is the only 19th century Gothic Revival-style frame Catholic church in North Carolina that survives today and stands in virtually its original state with remarkable preservation. It is the third oldest Catholic church still in use in North Carolina.

During its dedication on May 5, 1889, Father Thomas Price celebrated the High Mass. He was not only the first native North Carolinian to be ordained a priest, but he later co-founded the well-known Maryknoll Fathers. His cause for canonization is currently being processed.

In 1931, the parish of St. John the Baptist was organized in Roanoke Rapids and today oversees the care of this historic little church. The Immaculate Conception Church is open several times a year in conjunction with events at the historical site, and Mass is celebrated for the Feast of the Immaculate Conception on December 8th. Contact the St. John the Baptist parish office if you would like to tour this historic Church.

Read more: 

The Catholics are here: How one tiny church is an integral part of state history