About Us

Mission Statement

St. Agnes Parish, a Christian family located in Kanawha City, is a multi-generational community committed to Catholic spiritual and moral values. We share the Gospel of Christ through the liturgical, charitable, and social efforts as we endeavor to live out our baptismal call.

All are welcome, especially visitors, guests, and those new to the community.

History of St. Agnes Catholic Church

1923 St. Agnes Parish was formed from Sacred Heart Parish to satisfy the spiritual needs of the families of the glass workers at the plants in Kanawha City, The first Mass offered in St. Agnes Parish was in a pool room opposite the glass works by Fr. William A. Lee and forty parishioners.

1924 Erection of St. Agnes combined Church and School Building on MacCorkle Avenue.

1926 Fr. William A. Lee was replaced by Fr. Thomas Garrett.

1930 Fr. James McGlone was appointed Pastor.

1934 Fr. Laurence Gallagher was appointed Pastor.

1939 Small addition was added to the School.

1957 Archbishop John Swint dedicated St. Agnes Church and School at its present location.

1965 Fr. Leo B. Lydon was appointed Administrator and Fr. Gallagher was appointed Pastor Emeritus.

1967 Fr. Leo B. Lydon was appointed Pastor.

1968 March 27 -Death of Fr. Gallagher in Ireland.

1969 Fr. P. Edward Sadie was appointed Pastor.

1973 Golden Anniversary celebrated on August 11.

1980 Msgr. Sylvester Staun was appointed Pastor.

1982 Fr. Marcel A. Ballouz was appointed Pastor.

1987 Fr. John H. McDonnell was appointed Pastor.

1998 Our 75th Anniversary was celebrated.

2006 Fr. John P. McDonough was appointed Pastor.

2011 Fr. Christopher M. Turner was appointed Pastor.

2014 Fr. Ryan Stichweh was appointed Administrator.

2015 Fr. Joseph M. Augustine was appointed Administrator.

2018 Fr. Jose Manuel Escalante was appointed Pastor.

2020 After consulting with Parish and Finance Councils, and the superintendent of Catholic Schools, Bishop Mark Brennan made the decision to close St. Agnes School.