About St. Therese Catholic Church · Southgate, Kentucky
St. Therese Catholic Church in Southgate, Kentucky, is a vibrant parish and school community founded in 1927, dedicated to the life and legacy of St. Therese of Lisieux. The parish began with a repurposed brewery building and has since grown into a modern church and educational center, serving generations through worship, faith formation, and community outreach. It continues to honor its patroness by doing small things with great love, welcoming all who seek Christ’s love. The parish is part of the Diocese of Covington and remains active in ministry, education, and parish life.
- Established
- 1927
- Patron
- St. Therese of Lisieux
- Rector
- Fr. Michael Grady
- Diocese
- Diocese of Covington
Why belong here
Join a parish that values Catholic education, community service, and spiritual growth. Experience vibrant ministries, a welcoming school, and a church that has served Southgate for nearly 100 years. Whether you’re seeking worship, fellowship, or faith formation, St. Therese offers a home where you can grow in love of Christ and neighbor.
Mass times at St. Therese Catholic Church
Weekly Mass schedule
History
St. Therese Parish was canonically established on August 15, 1927, under Bishop Francis W. Howard. The parish was formed from portions of St. Thomas, St. Vincent de Paul, and St. Francis de Sales. Reverend F. Borgias Lehr was the first pastor. The first Mass was celebrated in 1927 in a former bowling alley, and the church and school were dedicated in October 1927. The parish has grown through multiple expansions, including a new church in 1964, a gym in 1992, and classroom renovations in 2025. The parish celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2027.
School
The parish operates a Catholic school that has been a cornerstone of the community since 1927. The school has undergone multiple expansions, including new classrooms in 2025, a library, computer lab, and kitchen expansion in 1998. The school is currently led by Principal Ms. Katie Boruske.
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Msgr. Borgias Lehr1927-1957
First pastor; died in 1957 after 30 years.
- Fr. Paul Brinker1957-1982
Succeeded Lehr; led modernization and new church construction.
- Fr. Leroy Smith1982-1991
- Fr. Clarence J. Heitzman1991-2018
- Fr. Douglas Lauer2018-2022
- Fr. Michael Grady2022-Present