Can a church be more than just bricks and mortar? At Holy Rosary Catholic Church, the answer is a resounding yes. This plaque commemorates a century of faith, community, and resilience. Holy Rosary Catholic Church isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to the enduring spirit of Houston.
Holy Rosary Catholic Church was founded in 1913. Bishop Nicholas A. Gallagher invited the Dominican Friars to minister to 125 families. Houston was a much smaller city then, with only 82,000 residents. The church’s first home was a two-story building on land donated by William H. McCarthy. The lower floor served as the church, while the upper floor housed a parochial elementary school run by the Dominican Sisters. The school, starting with just 25 children, expanded to all eight grades by 1922.
The first Mass was held even before the building was finished. It took place in a private residence at 3605 Milam Street. Joseph I. Macatee was the first baptism in the parish. George Rick’s funeral marked the first time the community mourned together. The first wedding celebrated the union of Charles Giraud and Mary Kittrell. Holy Rosary quickly became a hub of activity. Father Raphael A. LaPlante, the first pastor, organized a chapter of the Holy Name Society. Mrs. C. C. Cunningham became the first parishioner to join the Dominican Third Order in 1920. Around the same time, the Blessed Virgin’s Sodality was formed for young women, who received Holy Communion together each month. The Rosary and Altar Society followed in 1928. Later, the Rosarian Club for young adults and a chapter of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul were established.
The dream of a permanent church was always present. By 1926, the parish had paid off its initial debts and started saving. Father Martin McDermott, who became pastor in 1930, decided it was time to build. Parishioner and architect Maurice J. Sullivan designed a Gothic structure. Construction began in 1932. The new church, built with Bedford stone and Texas limestone, was blessed in 1933. The main altar, carved by Oswald Lassig, was a masterpiece. The church cost $150,000, a remarkably low price due to the Depression. Despite the economic hardship, parishioners gave generously. The debt was paid off in just a few years. Holy Rosary Catholic Church has witnessed Houston’s growth and transformation. It has served as a spiritual anchor for generations, fostering faith and community. As you stand before this plaque, take a moment to reflect on the countless lives touched by this sacred place.