About St. Catherine · Catharine, Kansas
St. Catherine Parish in Catharine, Kansas, was established in 1890 to serve German-speaking settlers who arrived from Russia in the 1870s. The parish built its own stone church in 1892, with parishioners contributing labor and funds; the interior was delayed due to economic hardship. The church is dedicated to St. Catherine, and the town’s name reflects its German heritage, honoring Catherine the Great. The parish has maintained a strong community presence, including a school staffed by Sisters of St. Agnes, and features distinctive angel statues throughout its structure. It remains active today with regular Masses, Confessions, and a pastoral staff including Fr. Earl Befort, OFM Cap.
- Established
- 1890
- Patron
- St. Catherine
- Rector
- Fr. Earl Befort, OFM Cap.
- Diocese
- Catholic Diocese of Salina
Why belong here
Join a parish with deep roots in community and faith, where generations have gathered for worship, education, and service. The parish offers regular Mass, Confession, and active ministries including faith formation and parish life coordination. Its historic stone church, adorned with angel statues, reflects a legacy of dedication and resilience. Whether you’re new or longtime, you’ll find a welcoming, prayerful community committed to living out the Gospel.
Mass times at St. Catherine
Weekly Mass schedule
Confession times
- Sunday: 8:30 am - 8:55 am
History
Founded in 1890 to serve German-speaking settlers from Russia, the parish built its stone church in 1892. The interior was delayed due to economic hardship. The church was dedicated to St. Catherine, and the town’s name reflects its German heritage, honoring Catherine the Great. The parish operated a school staffed by Sisters of St. Agnes. In 1971, the original spire was dismantled and replaced in 1981. Angel statues have been a long-standing feature, with several installed over time.
Contact & Services
The parish is located at Box 18, 1681 St. Joseph St., Catharine, KS, 67627. Mass is celebrated Sunday at 9:00 am, Holy Days at 7:00 pm, and Christmas Day at 9:00 am. Confessions are offered Sunday from 8:30 am to 8:55 am. The parish is led by Fr. Earl Befort, OFM Cap., and Glenda Schuetz, Parish Life Coordinator.
Diocese & Location
St. Catherine Parish is part of the Catholic Diocese of Salina, established in 1887 and moved to Salina in 1944. The diocese covers 26,685 square miles and includes 103 parishes. The parish is located in Catharine, Kansas, a small town with a rich German heritage.