Our History

Immaculate Conception Parish, originally known as St. Mary’s Church, was dedicated on December 26, 1866, in Union, Missouri, beginning with a humble assembly of 12 families. From its inception, the parish has thrived through the dedication and commitment of its community.

In response to a growing congregation, a new church was constructed and rededicated to Our Blessed Mother under the title of Immaculate Conception. In 1902, the parishioners decided to open a Catholic school, hiring Miss Emma Reymer as the first teacher. Immaculate Conception School began on October 1, 1902, with 30 students. By 1904, increased enrollment necessitated the addition of a second classroom, and Miss Elis Jacquin joined as a teacher.

Recognizing the need for a more permanent educational solution, the parish invited the Sisters of St. Francis of Lafayette, Indiana, to teach at the school. Sisters Andrea, Maura, and Eutropis arrived in Union on August 12, 1905, and initially held classes in the church basement. Under the leadership of Reverend Bernard Zehnle, O.F.M., who began his pastorate on January 14, 1914, plans for a dedicated school building were set in motion. Ground was broken on March 15, 1915, and the new building was dedicated on January 6, 1916. This building continues to serve the school, housing preschool, kindergarten, first, fourth, and fifth grades, as well as music classes.

Reverend Raymond Schuermann, installed as pastor on September 10, 1955, oversaw the construction of a new building to address the need for additional classrooms. This structure, dedicated on February 11, 1962, included four classrooms, a cafeteria/gymnasium, bathrooms, and administrative offices.

In 1986, the first student from St. Joseph Parish in Neier, Missouri, was enrolled, leading to an increase in students from this parish. By 1988, the Sisters of St. Francis were recalled, and Reverend Theodore Bughoff hired Sister Kathleen Eggleston from the Sisters of St. Joseph as principal. In 1989, students from Holy Family Church in Port Hudson, Missouri, began enrolling, further increasing the student body.

To address overcrowding and future growth, a new addition was built in 1990, connecting existing structures and adding four homerooms, a resource room, a science lab, a library, and a meeting room/faculty lounge. This addition was completed in 1991, and the playground area was expanded.

In 1995, construction began on a new Parish Center, including a gymnasium, stage area, concession stand, and restrooms. This was dedicated by Bishop Paul Zipfel in September 1996.

Under the leadership of Mrs. Patricia Corley, the tradition of the 8th Grade Class pilgrimage to the National Pro-Life March in Washington, D.C., was established. Community events throughout the year support this significant trip.

In 2004, the old gymnasium/cafeteria was transformed into a new cafeteria, four classrooms, a computer lab, an office, a conference room, and a new kitchen. A storage area was added to the Parish Center in 2006, and additional playground space was created by purchasing and razing nearby houses. A covered pavilion was built in 2011.

Security enhancements were made in 2015, funded by the annual Dinner Auction, to ensure student safety. In 2017-2018, the Main Street Lounge was acquired for parish offices and a Perpetual Adoration Chapel.

Today, Immaculate Conception School enrolls 207 students from 160 families, including students from St. Joseph Parish in Neier and St. Clare. The faculty includes five alumni and ten teachers whose children have attended or are attending the school, continuing the legacy of dedication and community.