Our History
It All Started In 1953.
In 1953, Father Frederick Beckerle was named the founding pastor of the Church of Saint Mary in the Brookside area of Tulsa. Beginning with a small number of families, the first Mass was celebrated on September 6, 1953, in the Brook Theater (now known as the Brook Restaurant). Father Beckerle served as pastor for 15 years and during that time, the parish experienced rapid growth. The first church and school were dedicated in late 1954.
In 1968, Father (later Monsignor) James Halpine was named the second pastor of the parish. During his eight years as pastor, there was a total renovation of the entire parish facilities, which included a remodeling of the church, the addition of the Activities Center and the purchase of a rectory at 7327 Sleepy Hollow Drive.
Over 70 Years Of Growth
From 1976 to 1978, Father Charles Swett was pastor and built the current rectory. Father Stephen MacAulay began a 10-year tenure as pastor of the parish in 1978. During this period, a large parish staff was formed to meet the needs of our faith community. From 1985-1986, a new church was completed to meet the needs of an ever-growing parish.
In 1988, Father Paul Eichhoff was appointed pastor during the time the old church was being renovated into parish meeting rooms. In addition to this renovation, parish offices were updated. Monsignor Dennis Dorney was appointed the sixth pastor of the Church of Saint Mary in December 1995, and the parish experienced another rapid growth where the total number of families reached close to 2,000.
No Plans On Slowing Down
In the pastorate of Father Jack Gleason (2011-2022) and continuing with Father Stuart Crevcoure, the Church of Saint Mary expanded its campus to include a new parish center called Our Lady of Grace. This new building included classrooms, a youth room, a state-of-the-art kitchen, and a large parish hall. A new charitable outreach center was built as well to accommodate those who are in need.
Alongside new buildings, new ministries began to form. For every walk of life, we have something to offer. From children’s catechism, to young adult ministries, to young families and older generations, the Church of Saint Mary offers a variety of ways to be involved and grow in your relationship with Jesus Christ.
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