The History of Saint Pius
Established as a parish in 1951, the roots of Saint Pius X Church go back to 1870 when Fr. Edward Sorin, C.S.C. founded Saint Joseph's Farm in Granger, Indiana. At the farm, Holy Cross Brothers and Sisters and Priests served the needs of Catholics in the rural farming community, while providing fresh food for the nearby University of Notre Dame. In 1924, the first sacramental records were recorded and in 1936 this unofficial body of Catholics became established as the Saint Joseph's Farm Parish.
By 1951, the small chapel at the farm was far too small to serve the needs of the growing population. A gift of five acres off Fir Road enabled a new church to be built. This new church, dedicated to Saint Pius X, was built by the 145 families it would serve, and held its first Mass in March of 1956.
As the area surrounding Saint Pius X grew, so did the parish. A new rectory was built in 1970, and a parish center and gym were added in 1986. By 1989, the parish had grown to 1200 families, with new members being added each week, prompting a decision to construct a new church. The new building and connecting offices were completed by Easter, 1992 and dedicated the following September. While the church has won numerous awards for its baptismal font and subtle beauty, it has always been seen as a house for the Church, recognizing that the strength of this parish community is not found in bricks and mortar, so much as in the faith and love of its people.
Saint Pius X parish continues to grow, as we now have over 3,000 families and almost 10,000 parishioners. This is a vibrant, faith-filled community dedicated to sharing and living the Good News. Programs and events touching the lives of every facet of the parish provide opportunities for education and spiritual growth. Saint Pius X has been described as a large parish with a small community feel, a true family of faith that seeks to respond to God's wondrous love and grace.
Mission Statement
Rooted in the Granger community, and part of the Diocese of Fort-Wayne-South Bend, St. Pius X Catholic Church promotes a faith-based spiritual community proclaiming the Word of God and celebrating the Sacraments, with the Eucharist as the source and summit of our spiritual life. Our church community includes people of all ages and groups in which everyone can respond to God’s call to salvation by developing a sense of community and fellowship. This is done through stewardship of our resources and religious education, including all members in service to others, sharing our blessings with those in need, and promoting Catholic social justice.