In the early 1900’s, Catholics in this area were served by visiting priests. One Oblate priest, from St. Augustine’s Parish in Vancouver, would travel each Sunday by interurban train to offer Mass, but chiefly the Oblate Fathers from Mission City across the Fraser River, provided this service. From 1910 to 1912, Mass was celebrated in the home of the De la Giroday family.
In 1912, a building was erected by Hammond & Son, who were local contractors. Mr. De la Giroday and Mr. Bernard McElroy were also credited for their efforts in helping with the construction. On completion, members of the congregation were able to move in to their own church located on the crest of Old Yale Road, between what is now Park Avenue and Campbell Avenue, east of the railroad station which had a seating capacity for about 100 people. At the opening ceremony on Sunday July 7th, 1912, His Grace, Archbishop McNeil of Vancouver, celebrated the Mass, assisted by Father Jan, O.M.I. The children’s choir and band from St. Mary’s School in Mission sang and played for the event. Catholics from the surrounding areas traveled by CPR train to attend the special occasion. The front of the church was decorated with evergreens and flags of both Canada and the United States. The US flag was in honour of Father McCarthy, of St. Ann’s Church in Sumas, Washington, who served the evening Mass, assisted by Father Fohr. The local choir, under the direction of Mrs. Cannonville and Mrs. Gernaey, lead the specially prepared music.