Saint John Neumann Catholic Church

Journey with me back to 1998. Bishop Daniel F. Walsh saw a need in North Las Vegas. He envisioned a new parish, a spiritual home for the burgeoning community. This vision became Saint John Neumann Catholic Church. The first Mass, a humble gathering of 31 souls, was held in December 1998, not in a grand church, but in a repurposed rectory. Saint John Neumann Catholic Church wasn’t built in a day. The burgeoning community quickly outgrew the rectory. A donated doublewide trailer and a shed became the next makeshift worship space on Simmons Street. Can you imagine celebrating Mass in a trailer? In February 1999, Bishop Walsh led the first services at this new, unconventional location. Officially established on March 1, 1999, Saint John Neumann Catholic Church became the first new parish in the Diocese of Las Vegas. The parish continued to grow, fueled by the dedication of its members. Parishioners volunteered their time and talents, serving as liturgical ministers, catechists, and in countless other roles. Music and the Eucharist became cornerstones of this vibrant community. Groups like the Marthas and Marys and the Men’s Club formed, strengthening the bonds within the parish. By 2001, the need for a dedicated space became undeniable. The finance committee launched a capital campaign to build a Parish Center. This center would house a temporary worship area, offices, meeting rooms, a kitchen, and storage. This dream came to fruition on December 8, 2003, when Bishop Joseph A. Pepe dedicated the new Parish Center on El Campo Grande Avenue. Saint John Neumann Catholic Church continued to innovate. In 2005, they introduced the Catechesis of the Good Shepherd, a Montessori-based faith formation program. This innovative approach solidified their commitment to nurturing faith in children. Fast forward to 2019. Father Marc Howes became the third pastor, ushering in a new era. Under his guidance, the dream of a permanent church building was reignited. Ground was broken in January 2023, and construction began in April. In a remarkable journey, Father Howes and the associate pastor traveled to Peru in July. They visited the workshops of Don Bosco Artisans, witnessing the creation of sculptures, stained glass, and stonework destined for the new church. Saint John Neumann Catholic Church celebrated its 25th anniversary in 2024, a testament to its enduring spirit. As we stand here today, in 2025, the new church nears completion, a symbol of the unwavering faith and dedication of the Saint John Neumann community.