The Church of the Immaculate Conception
St. Mary’s is formally The Church of the Immaculate Conception. The first St. Mary’s was built for Alton’s German Catholic community in 1859, and the present church building was completed in 1895.
Parish & History
A festival rooted in faith, education, and community.
Oktoberfest is not just a weekend event. It is a mission-driven effort to support Catholic faith, education, parish life, school families, and the broader community.
Mission statement
Why the event exists.
St. Mary’s Oktoberfest supports and celebrates Catholic faith, parish life, and education. The weekend helps raise essential funds that strengthen our church, school, and broader community.
That mission gives the event its purpose. It reminds guests, sponsors, volunteers, parish leaders, and school families that Oktoberfest is not just a festival. It is one way St. Mary’s continues to support the life of the parish and school.
- Support Catholic faith and education
- Strengthen parish and school life
- Serve the broader community
- Create a welcoming family event
- Use resources wisely and intentionally
The parish
For guests who want to know more about St. Mary’s.
The festival is connected to a parish with a long Catholic history in Alton. This section gives visitors the short version while keeping the page focused on the festival weekend.
A long pastoral legacy
Many parishioners still remember Monsignor James A. Suddes, who served as pastor from 1954 to 1987 and left a lasting legacy of personal care, parish life, and commitment to Catholic education.
Current pastor
Fr. Nathan Marzonie, O.M.V., serves as pastor of St. Mary’s Parish and Local Superior of the Oblate community in Alton.
His connection to St. Mary’s is especially meaningful because he was ordained to the priesthood at St. Mary’s in 2022 and began serving as pastor in November 2025.
Faith and community
The story shows up in people.
The strongest images are not just the steins, tents, or food. They are the families, clergy, volunteers, runners, musicians, and guests who keep returning.
