History of OLPH and SJA

Prior to 1943, families had to journey to other towns to receive the Sacraments.  Father Francis J. Dobias then came from Danbury to administer the Sacraments to West Columbia and Sweeny Catholics once a month. In 1954, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Mission was erected in Sweeny. On August 12, 1968, Bishop John L. Morkovsky raised the mission church to a parish church status. In West Columbia, Saint John the Apostle was established as a mission community. Twelve days later, Father Anthony T. Orlando was appointed as the first pastor. During this time the parish population totaled approximately 50 families. The ground breaking ceremonies for the new St. John the Apostle Church was held on February 3, 1980, It was finished on Dec. 27,1980. Presently, Father Wayne Wilkerson is ministering to approximately 300 parishioners from both OLPH and St. John. We must never forget the generosity of the people who gave of their time, money, land, contributions, and continuous efforts in providing various fund raisers. Without their help and the grace of God, our parishes would not have become a reality.