"Bringing people together to build joyful disciples who know, love and serve Jesus Christ."

A Community Takes Root

Before St. Paul Chong Hasang Catholic Church was established, Korean parishioners attended an American Catholic church. Language barriers and differences in customs and culture created difficulties, and even Confession could be awkward. The community recognized the need for a Korean priest who could serve its spiritual and pastoral needs.

Bishop Vincent Harris of the Diocese of Austin recognized this need and prayed for a Korean priest. In 1982, Brother Kim Sae Eul came from Mexico to St. Joseph’s Church. His ministry greatly strengthened the spirituality of the Korean people, and the Korean congregation grew under his leadership.

Building a Church Community

As the congregation grew, its members began a building fund and prayed for a larger church. Bishop Harris ordained Brother Kim as assistant priest for St. Joseph’s Church, and the Korean parish began pursuing the establishment of a Korean Catholic church.

Approximately nine acres of land were purchased for $32,000 on November 14, 1985. In preparation for the new church, now known as the Old Parish Hall, the Korean congregation held a religious retreat in March 1986 and assembled a choir to praise the Lord for the occasion.

On April 14, 1986, Bishop Harris gave permission to establish and open the Korean church, with Father Kim serving as pastor. Korean people from across the United States, including Austin, Dallas, and Philadelphia, helped make the new church possible.