The Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception is the spiritual heart of Camden. Visit the church to experience a sense of harmony and community togetherness, which is most evident at weekend Mass services. The cathedral is the headquarters of the Diocese of Camden. It has been welcoming worshippers for over 150 years and was listed on the National Register of Historic Places in 2003.
Admire the cathedral’s brick exterior, built in the Gothic Revival-style. The façade features a modest porch entrance, above which is a gilded statue of the Virgin Mary. On the exterior wall behind the entrance is a large rose window and to the side is a multitier tower topped by a spire and cross. Walk around the sides of the building to see examples of Gothic windows and well-maintained gardens.
The interior has a single nave flanked on both sides by rows of arches with gold ornamentation. The congregation faces a marble altar and the cathedra (bishop’s throne). Look above the altar to see a stained-glass window with images of St. John, St. Joseph, St. Paul and St. Peter. Additional stained-glass windows, with portrayals of biblical scenes, decorate the walls of the nave.
A notable aspect of the interior is the series of copper plaques that represent the Stations of the Cross. Take a moment to study the life-like carved figures of the individual plaques. The pipe organ is also noteworthy.
Find the cathedral in the heart of Downtown Camden. Use the parking lot adjacent to the building. If you are arriving from Philadelphia, drive or catch a public bus or train here. Camden Waterfront, home to the Adventure Aquarium and Camden Children’s Garden, is a 5-minute drive to the west.
The Cathedral of the Immaculate is open daily. Mass services in English and Spanish take place from Monday to Friday and on Sunday.