Parish History

St. Mary’s Catholic Church in Griffith, Indiana, was established in 1927 to serve the local Catholic community, which previously traveled to Schererville for sacraments.

 

The parish grew under the leadership of its pastors, including founding pastor Rev. ​ Joseph Suelzer (1928–1932), Monsignor Leo Hildebrandt (1932–1972), Monsignor Richard Zollinger (1972–1992), Rev. ​ Theodore Mens (1993–2019), and current pastor Rev. ​ Keith Virus (2019–present). ​

 

Over the years, the parish expanded its facilities, including a combined church and school building, a parish hall, and upgraded educational spaces. ​ St. Mary’s has been a cornerstone of the community, fostering spiritual growth, hosting annual festivals, and supporting priestly vocations, with several parish sons becoming priests and bishops. ​

 

The parish has also navigated challenges, including fires, leadership transitions, and the COVID-19 pandemic, while maintaining its commitment to faith, service, and community. As it approaches its centennial, St. Mary’s continues to thrive, focusing on renewal, outreach, and engaging younger generations to ensure its legacy endures.