Our History

In 1870, the first Mass celebrated in Shenandoah was held at the home of Ed Ryan presided by Fr. B.P. McMennamy of Council Bluffs. This laid the foundation St. Mary's Catholic Church, founded in 1874, as a parish of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Des Moines. Our first pastor was Fr. Frederick Pape, who served as the first pastor of St. Mary's in Hamburg, Iowa as well. The first Church was built in 1874 on Thomas Avenue.

In 1909, the current Church was built with the help of the parishioners of St. Mary's and under the guidance of Fr. George Toher.

155 years later, we continue the mission of Jesus Christ making disciples, sharing the Gospel, and serving our community.