About Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Chapel · Flagstaff, Arizona
Nativity of the Blessed Virgin Mary Chapel in Flagstaff, Arizona, is a historically significant and architecturally unique Catholic chapel located near downtown. It has undergone multiple physical relocations and rebuilds since its founding in 1888, serving as a spiritual and cultural landmark for the region. Currently, the chapel is in urgent need of restoration due to severe deterioration of its exterior concrete, interior water damage, and aging stained glass windows. It is part of the San Francisco de Asis Catholic Parish and is currently under community-led preservation efforts to save this cherished icon.
- Established
- 1888
- Patron
- Blessed Virgin Mary
- Diocese
- San Francisco de Asis Catholic Parish
Why belong here
Join a community deeply rooted in history and faith, where parishioners actively participate in restoration efforts to preserve a unique regional icon. The chapel offers a rich heritage of worship, community service, and spiritual formation, with ministries that reflect its historic mission and ongoing renewal.
History
The chapel’s origins trace to 1888, when the first Catholic church in Flagstaff was built on Brannen Street. It was later moved to Cherry Street in 1911, then to Beaver & Cherry Streets in 1930. The current chapel is part of the San Francisco de Asis Catholic Parish. The site details the history of its three physical incarnations and the community’s ongoing restoration efforts.
An Icon at Risk
The chapel is suffering extensive deterioration, including decayed exterior concrete, interior water damage, and aging stained glass windows. Despite appearing solid to casual observers, the need for immediate intervention is critical. Restoration requires expertise in historic masonry, slate roofs, and stained glass windows.
Restoration Fund
The Babbitt Bros. Foundation is supporting the restoration project. Community support and donations are essential to preserve this architectural treasure and regional icon.