CELEBRATING OVER A CENTURY OF COMMUNITY
Established in 1911, St. Roch Parish has been a cornerstone of the community for more than 100 years. Founded by the Archdiocese of St. Louis, our parish has grown from humble beginnings to become a vibrant hub of faith, education, and service.
1911: The Beginning
St. Roch Parish was born with the purchase of land at Waterman and Rosedale streets. Rev. George P. Kuhlman was appointed as the first pastor, and the inaugural Mass was held in a small store at 6008 Kingsbury.
1912-1916: Growth and Development
A school building was constructed, followed by the arrival of the Sisters of St. Joseph to teach. The church and rectory were completed, laying the foundation for our parish community.
1920s: Expansion and Service
The 1920s saw the establishment of various service organizations and clubs, including the Boy Scouts, the Mother's Club (now the Parent Teacher Association), and the St. Vincent de Paul Society. Our parish continued to grow and serve those in need.
1930s-1950s: Adapting to Change
The following decades brought changes in leadership and expansions to our facilities. New priests joined the parish, and initiatives like the Parish Councils of Catholic Women and Men were established. The construction of additional buildings further enriched our community.
1960s-1990s: Modernization and Progress
During this period, St. Roch embraced modernization with the dedication of a new school building, renovations to the church following Vatican II directives, and technological advancements in education. The parish continued to evolve, welcoming new clergy and making improvements to its infrastructure.
2000s: Embracing the Future
As we entered the 21st century, St. Roch remained committed to excellence in education, embracing technology and innovation in the classroom. The school became a leader in educational technology, providing students with cutting-edge resources for learning.
Today: A Legacy of Excellence
With over a century of history, St. Roch Parish continues to thrive as a beacon of faith, learning, and community service. Our dedicated teachers and staff uphold a tradition of excellence, ensuring that each student receives the best education possible.
Join us as we celebrate our rich history and look forward to a future filled with promise and possibility at St. Roch Parish.