Gazing up, notice how the enormous copper roof of Saint Pius X Catholic Church sweeps down almost to ground level. This striking feature is just the beginning of our journey. Saint Pius X Catholic Church stands as a testament to architectural innovation and spiritual dedication. It has a rich history rooted in the New Orleans community.
Established between 1950 and 1953, Saint Pius X Parish initially served as a mission. It combined parts of Holy Rosary, St. Dominic, and St. Frances Cabrini parishes. Regular Sunday Masses were held at the Lake Vista Community Center. Bishop Abel Caillouet played a crucial role in its foundation. Originally named after Blessed Pius X, the parish officially became Saint Pius X after his canonization in May 1954.
Through community donations, the first church-rectory-school was built. It was dedicated on August 16, 1953. Father Michael Killoughey became the first pastor. The Sisters of St. Joseph were entrusted with running the school. By 1957, a separate rectory was completed, and the school expanded with new classrooms and a cafeteria.
In 1963, Monsignor Arthur T. Screen succeeded Father Killoughey. That same year, plans for a permanent church began. The design included a striking roof and 75-foot high ceilings. The interior featured in-the-round seating. This design ensured the altar was visible from every angle. The church could accommodate 800 people, all within 60 feet of the altar. Archbishop Phillip M. Hannan dedicated the new Saint Pius X Catholic Church in 1966.
As the parish grew, new programs and space became necessary. In 1983, a new rectory, parish administration, and school administration building were dedicated. These additions included a library, computer lab, art room, and science lab.
Monsignor Clinton J. Doskey was appointed pastor in 1991. He fulfilled Father Screen’s vision by building a gymnasium. The Father A.T. Screen Gymnasium was dedicated in 1997.
Hurricane Katrina struck in 2005. Saint Pius X Church and School miraculously avoided flooding. However, the copper roof suffered damage from the storm’s intense winds. The campus became a vital hub for first responders. The Massachusetts National Guard and fire engine companies from across the U.S. were stationed here.
Saint Pius X Catholic School reopened in January 2006. In 2007, it received the No Child Left Behind National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence Award.
The church closed for repairs after Easter in 2007. It reopened for Christmas Eve Mass. Archbishop Phillip M. Hannan returned to rededicate the church. Monsignor Doskey served as pastor for twenty years. He oversaw an increase in ministries and the creation of the Blessed Francis Seelos adoration chapel.
In 2009, Very Reverend Patrick J. Williams became the pastor. A new school building was erected in 2019, funded by parishioner donations. The school gained new science, art, music, and resource classrooms.
Architect James Lamantia Jr. created a bold design for Saint Pius X. The octagonal shape with the altar at the center reflects changes made by Vatican II. Light floods the interior through colored glass and a stained glass window. This window focuses light directly onto the altar.
Saint Pius X Catholic Church stands not only as a place of worship but also as a symbol of community resilience. It represents architectural innovation. Its history reflects the enduring spirit of New Orleans.