Every now and then, a property hits the market that simply refuses to blend in—and those are the ones I get to write about. This Zillow Gone Wild-style feature is part of a blog series that spotlights one standout listing at a time, diving into the details that make it memorable. Because in today’s market, it’s not just about being listed—it’s about being seen.
Some houses have history.
This one has holy credentials.
Welcome to the former Immaculate Conception Church and Rectory in St. Louis, Missouri — a Gothic Revival property so dramatic it feels like it should come with background music and incense.
Yes, it’s for sale.
Yes, someone once living here went on to become Pope Leo XIV.
No, your current house does not compare.
The Stats (Because We Know You’re Scrolling for Them)
📍 Location: 3120 Lafayette Avenue, St. Louis, Missouri, 63104
💰 Price: $1.8 million
🏛️Style: Gothic Revival
📜Status: National Register of Historic Places
⛪Includes: Former church + rectory
Fun fact: A future pope lived here in the late 1970s
This building dates back to 1908, which explains why it resembles less a house and more a structure out of a Gothic novel.
Those pointed arches?
The stonework?
The “I could host a wedding in my living room” energy?
Immaculate.
Before It Was a Listing, It Was a Parish
The name “Immaculate Conception” has been part of St. Louis history since the 1800s, surviving building collapses, relocations, and neighborhood changes before finally settling at this corner of the Gate District.
Originally serving Irish immigrant families, the church became a community anchor—complete with a rectory and school that once taught hundreds of students.
In other words, this place has seen some things.
Let’s talk about interior drama.
Soaring ceilings, stained glass windows, and details that modern builders simply do not attempt anymore. Every angle looks like it was designed to make you stop and stare—or whisper, even if no one asked you to.
Living here would absolutely make grocery store small talk awkward:
“Oh, this weekend? Just relaxing at the church.”
The Pope Plot Twist
From 1977 to 1978, the property served as an Augustinian novitiate. During that time, a young man named Robert Prevost lived here, playing basketball with neighborhood kids and studying theology.
Years later, he would become Pope Leo XIV.
So yes, this is technically a house with papal provenance.
The rectory, completed in 1923, adds a more traditional residential feel — multiple bedrooms, livable spaces, and just enough “normal house” energy to balance out the cathedral vibes next door.
Think: historic charm meets “this could actually be my bedroom.”
What Happened After the Church Closed?
Like many urban parishes, attendance declined over time. The church officially closed in 2005, and the property began its second life:
- The former school was converted into apartments (and praised for adaptive reuse)
- The church hosted concerts and events
- It passed through several owners
- And now, in 2026, it’s back on the market
Who Buys a House Like This?
Someone bold.
This could be:
- A one-of-a-kind private residence
- An event or creative venue
- A boutique hotel
- Or the most unhinged (compliment) live/workspace imaginable
Either way, it’s the kind of property that makes people stop scrolling — and that’s exactly why it belongs here.
Final Verdict
Is it unconventional? Absolutely.
Is it historic? Undeniably.
Did a future pope once live here? Still yes.
If you’ve ever wanted a home that comes with architectural drama, real history, and an unbeatable conversation starter, this former church might be your calling.
Amen to that.
Want to learn more? Check it out for yourself: https://www.sothebysrealty.com/dielmann/eng/sales/detail/698-l-981-wk3b5t/3120-lafayette-avenue-the-gate-st-louis-mo-63104
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