The reason the Celtic Cultural Center chose St. Mary's Cathedral for their event
was based on part on the Irish history of St. Mary's.
The Irish history of St. Mary's Cathedral dates back to her inception over 100 years ago. As Irish immigrants began to stake their claim to a new life in Texas, they gathered in Austin and developed much of Waterloo's early history. Whether it was opening a law office, working in civic jobs, or in the construction trade (bricks and limestone) the Irish took their place in Central Texas. When these early Irish immigrants gained enough polictical clout, they wrote to the powers that be asking for a Catholic place of worship here along the Colorado River. They also specifically asked for a strong, passionate Priest. They wrote if it weren't too much trouble, they would be delighted if he were Irish.
The Irish history of St. Mary's Cathedral dates back to her inception over 100 years ago. As Irish immigrants began to stake their claim to a new life in Texas, they gathered in Austin and developed much of Waterloo's early history. Whether it was opening a law office, working in civic jobs, or in the construction trade (bricks and limestone) the Irish took their place in Central Texas. When these early Irish immigrants gained enough polictical clout, they wrote to the powers that be asking for a Catholic place of worship here along the Colorado River. They also specifically asked for a strong, passionate Priest. They wrote if it weren't too much trouble, they would be delighted if he were Irish.
St. Mary's Cathedral actually started out as a small frontier stone Church called
"St. Patrick's Church" a block or two from her current location. She soon became
too small for the burgeoning community and plans were set in action to build a new
Church, a bigger one, more beautiful and fitting of her status as the premier place
of Worship for the capitol city of Texas. By this time, the German community in
Austin had expanded and wanted naming rights over the new Church, much to the
dismay of her Irish founders who wanted her to carry on the name of St. Patrick.
There was much consternation among her members until one brave priest, declared
she would be named for St. Mary, a name honored by both cultures.
Christmas Week - December 19th and 20th, 2011
Saint Mary’s Cathedral
Downtown Austin at 10th Street & Brazos.
7:30pm until 9:30pm
20 minute intermission.
Saint Mary’s Cathedral
Downtown Austin at 10th Street & Brazos.
7:30pm until 9:30pm
20 minute intermission.