Saint Louis

Settlers began arriving in the Paynesville area in the mid 1850’s, after numerous investors took interest in the region and created the township. As the population began to grow, Catholics in the area were cared for by a half-dozen parishes, with some families traveling as far as Mannanah and Kandiyohi for Sunday Mass.

An organizational meeting was called in April of 1899 by Doctor Pierre Pilon, and was met with much support. The local families were either tired of the long trek every Sunday, or tired of not making Mass for those who decided to forgo the journey. The organizational efforts moved quickly and the required funds and support were obtained within a month. Bishop Trobec of the Saint Cloud Diocese assigned Father John Hengarten to be the first pastor of St. Louis Church.

Louis IX, was born at Poissy, France in 1214. He succeeded to the throne at the early age of twelve under the regency of his mother Blanche of Castille. Having married Margaret of Provence in 1234, he was the father of eleven children.

Saint Louis, a follower of St. Francis of Assisi, was known for his ardent piety and sanctity. Unlike other Kings who gave customary offerings to the poor, Louis invited the poor to his own table each day, where he waited on them and
attended to their needs. His personal interest in the poor led to the founding of numerous charitable institutions including hospitals for the destitute and lepers.