The parish dates back to 1864 according to records compiled by former pastor, Fr.
Knespler.
The first priest known to have been active in this area was Fr. P. F, Gallagher, who came
through as a circuit rider from Rolla, Missouri. The first permanent pastor, also a circuit
rider, was Fr. F. W. Graham who served from 1868 to 1870. He built the first permanent
church in 1869 for $1,000.00 on land donated by Isaac Wickersham.
It was during the time of Father Smith that the first parsonage was built at a cost of
$1,000.00.
Fr. J. F. Wood came to Lebanon in 1889 and served for 33 years until his death in 1922.
He was responsible for additions to both the church and the rectory. Although Fr.
McNamara was in the parish for less than a year, he organized a drive for a parish school
which became a reality in 1943 under his successor, Fr. Knespler (1941-53). This pastor
obtained teachers from the Sisters of St. Benedict of Fort Smith, Arkansas This
community sent two sisters to staff the school which had an enrollment of 35 the first year.
Under Father Knespler, a drive was begun to raise funds to build a new church.
Dedication of this building took place on September 20, 1949.
In 1956, Lebanon became a part of the newly-created Diocese of Springfield-Cape
Girardeau. In March, 1961, Fr. William C. Krudwig was ordained for this diocese and
offered his first Mass in his home parish, Lebanon.
A set of three bells were purchased for the church and installed in 1962. A new parish
house was built in 1963. Fr. Theodore Wendoloski was pastor at this time (1962-69).
The old building was moved to Michigan Ave., where it was used as a foster home for
children for a period of time.
Fr. Clem Ilmberger served as pastor, 1969-74. In 1971 Fr. Clem black-topped the large
parking lot in front of the church, which was a very welcome addition to the parish plant.
He also built the “Sportman’s Chapel” at Bennett Springs State Park, where Mass is
celebrated from Memorial Day thru Labor Day. The parish observed its centennial with a
special celebration on December 4, 1971.
Father Wally Ellinger became pastor, 1974-75. Due to cost and the small number of
students, the parish school was closed in May, 1976. Since that time, religious education
in the parish has been carried on by volunteer parishioners under the direction of the
pastor. The building, now known as the Mumford building, serves as classrooms and
various other parish functions.
Fr. Leonard Chambers was appointed pastor (1976-81). Under his direction the parish
plant was remodeled and renovated. A new organ was installed in 1978. During his
tenure, the Knights of Columbus were formed, and the Parish Council of Catholic Women
was organized.
In June 1981, Fr. John A. Brath became pastor. Under his spiritual guidance, the parish
grew in faith and friendship. The RENEW and RCIA programs came into being during his
time here. Both programs were very well received by the parishioners. Father John left in
July 1986.
In August, 1986, Fr. Oliver Clavin became pastor. Under his direction, a drive was
organized to build a family center. The new Family Center was dedicated in 1993. It
houses the parish offices, classrooms, gym/dining area, and kitchen.
In August 1994, Msg. Raymond Orf became pastor, serving until his retirement in 2002.
During his time as pastor, the mortgage for the Family Center was paid off.
In August 2002, Fr. Bobby Manso became pastor, serving until early 2004.
In August 2004, Fr. John Brath returned to become pastor once again. Father Brath retired in August 2007. Msgr Michael A. Swalina became the pastor on August 26, 2007.
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