Who We Are
Parish Mission Statement
We, the Catholic family of St. James the Apostle, use our gifts, energy, and welcoming spirit to celebrate the saving presence of Jesus. We meet Him at His table, in His Word, and in one another. We commit ourselves to the mission of Jesus Christ by helping build God’s Kingdom among us through growth in faith, love for one another, and service to others.
History
St. James the Apostle Catholic Church has a long and proud history. In 1879, while visiting Griffin, Georgia, Redemptorist Bishop William Gross of Savannah said the first Mass in the home of Charles Wright. By 1910, Catholics in Griffin were able to worship in a frame chapel.
On April 4, 1943, the first Mass in McDonough was celebrated in the home of Mr. and Mrs. Jesse Gasses. For 16 years, Mass was celebrated in the Gasses' home for the 17 Catholics living in and around McDonough. Later, the mission was moved to the top of the Masonic Building in McDonough. When fire destroyed the building, the mission was moved to the Agricultural Building.
In 1966, Redemptorist priest Reverend James Anderson purchased the land of the existing church site. The church was officially dedicated on May 23, 1971, and named for Anderson’s patron saint.
Check out the original program from the Dedication of St. James the Apostle below!
