About St. Patrick · Walnut, Iowa
St. Patrick’s Parish in Walnut, Iowa, is part of a shared parish with St. Mary’s in Avoca, established in the late 19th century. The first Masses were celebrated in 1872, and the first church building for St. Patrick’s was completed in 1874. The parish is currently led by Father Seth Nana Owusu, who serves as pastor for both parishes. The community offers Masses in both English and Spanish, with schedules varying by season and day of the week. The parish is active in pastoral care, youth ministry, and community outreach, with a strong emphasis on inclusivity and service.
- Established
- 1874
- Patron
- St. Patrick
- Rector
- Father Seth Nana Owusu
- Diocese
- Diocese of Des Moines
Why belong here
The parish offers a welcoming community with active ministries including youth programs, retreats, and outreach to the marginalized. Pastoral care is emphasized, with a focus on inclusivity and service. The parish provides regular Masses, sacraments, and opportunities for spiritual growth, making it a vibrant center for Catholic life in Walnut and Avoca.
Mass times at St. Patrick
Weekly Mass schedule
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Father Bernard McMenomy1872
RIP
- Father Daniel McAllister1905-1908
RIP
- Father Henry Malone1904
RIP
- Father Joseph Hanson1898-1904
RIP
- Father Herman Albers1908-1933
RIP
- Father Valentine Cashman1933-1947
RIP
- Father Emil Schuman1947-1955
RIP
- Father Jerome Schnitker1955
RIP
- Father Joseph Schulte1955-1969
RIP
- Father LaVern Wingert1969-1979
RIP
- Father Paul Monahan1979-1985
Primrose Retirement Community, Council Bluffs
- Father Phil Lawler1985-1989
RIP
- Father James Polich1989-1995
RIP
- Father Fred Reischl1995-2000
RIP
- Father John Frost2000-2010
St. Mary of Nazareth, Des Moines
- Father Thomas Dooley2010-2018
St. Joseph, Winterset
- Father Seth Nana Owusu2018-present
Current pastor for both parishes