History and Mission

History

St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic parish was officially founded on June 27th 1959 within the boundaries of the Mississippi River, the Haraham city limits, Airline highway and Dilton Street. Construction began on the former site of the Tropical Radio Station and Father John Bendix was assigned as the pastor. The first official Mass was celebrated in the old radio transmitter building on the Feast of St. Matthew, September 21st, 1959. In the following years, the Church, school and convent were built. In September 1960, the school opened for grades one through five, staffed by three sisters of the Society of St. Teresa of Jesus. Since then, St. Matthew Church and School has been blessed by pastors, deacons, principals, sisters and parishioners who have continued the good work begun in 1959.

Mission

St. Matthew the Apostle Catholic Church is a Christ-centered parish family working to evangelize under the guidance of the Holy Spirit. Through the stewardship of time, talent, and treasure, we study, teach, and practice our Catholic beliefs in a prayerful community, centered on Jesus and enabling all people to grow in the image and likeness of Christ the Lord.