About St. Mary of the Seven Sorrows · Nashville, Tennessee
St. Mary of the Seven Sorrows Catholic Church in Nashville, Tennessee, is a historic landmark and one of the first Catholic churches built in the state, dating to 1844–47. It served as the second Cathedral of the Diocese of Nashville from 1847 to 1914 and remains the oldest extant church building downtown. Designed by German immigrant architect Adolphus Heiman in Greek Revival style, the church was primarily built under the leadership of Bishop Richard Pius Miles, the first Catholic bishop in Tennessee. The parish celebrated its 175th anniversary in 2022 and continues to serve the community with Mass, sacraments, and ministries.
- Established
- 1844-47
- Patron
- Mary of the Seven Sorrows
- Diocese
- Diocese of Nashville
Why belong here
Join a parish with deep historical roots and active ministries including faith formation, marriage preparation, and volunteer opportunities. The community honors its founding bishop, whose incorrupt body was discovered in 1972, and continues to serve through sacraments, adoration, and outreach. The church’s historic Greek Revival architecture and downtown location make it a spiritual and cultural landmark.
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Bishop Richard Pius Miles, O.P.1838–1860
First Bishop of Nashville; led the state’s Catholic population; buried beneath the cathedral; body found incorrupt in 1972.