A Brief History of
Saint Thomas the Apostle Catholic Church

Saint Thomas the Apostle parish of Redmond, Oregon is located in the heart of Central Oregon.

The first church was completed in 1910 and served the Catholic community until 1949. On  August 6, 1941 it was canonically erected as a parish by the Most Reverend Bishop Joseph F. McGrath. Father John O'Donovan was appointed the first pastor. Upon the death of Father O'Donovan, Father Michael Ahearne was appointed pastor on February 18, 1948. Under his pastorate, construction of the church at 12th and Forest Avenue began, with the first Mass being celebrated on Easter Sunday, April 9, 1950.

On February 8, 1961 Father Francis McCormack succeeded Father Ahearne and during his pastorate a new parish hall and rectory were completed.

On June 20, 1969 Father William S. Stone was appointed pastor and served until June 1972 when he was succeeded by Father Thomas J. Moore. Father Moore served until his death on November 19, 1976.

Monsignor Bernard Keating was appointed pastor on December 15, 1976. Monsignor Keating served Saint Thomas parish for thirteen years until his retirement on June 30, 1990.

Father Leo F. Weckerle became pastor on July 1, 1990. Several years later, Father Weckerle realized that with the rapid growth and development of the Redmond area, it would be necessary for
Saint Thomas parish to have a larger church. 

March 21st, 2004 was the realization of Father Weckerle's  and parishioners' dreams. Many decisions had to be made, and many challenges had to be overcome, but with the help of the
Holy Spirit, a beautiful place of worship has come into being. We thank God and we praise Him.