Jefferson, Marion County
This parish began in 1863 when Father Jean Marie Giraud held mass for Catholic residents of Jefferson. Immaculate Conception grew as a church and by 1867, members completed the first building. In 1869, the church opened a school and the next year moved to the current location. Immaculate Conception soon became a center for East Texas missions, though by 1910, it was also a mission. Under the guidance and leadership of the Rt. Rev. Monsignor Meyer and others, parishioners continued to meet and serve the community. Though a fire destroyed the church in 1992, the parish rebuilt and today remains a spiritual center for Jefferson residents. (2006)