St. Thomas History

A community of faith serving the wider community

St. Thomas Church was founded in 1958 in what was then the outer edge – now “Historic Midtown” - of Columbus. Legend has it that Thomas was chosen as patron and name because, “they doubted we would make it.” We did make it, and have been a witness to the Risen Lord in this community for nearly 50 years. Our history has been characterized by a commitment to outreach, reconciliation, mission, a culture of caring, and celebration of arts and worship.

St. Thomas has been blessed with resources. An early gift placed the fledgling congregation on a large piece of property. At about the same time one of its pioneer members left a large bequest to the parish. From the start its resources were made available for outreach and service to the wider community.

One early and prime example of this generosity was the creation of St. Thomas Day School, a preschool program created shortly after the church was founded. Year after year community children have been welcomed, their lives and characters formed in this household of faith. Today St. Thomas stands as the longest active church pre-school in the city.

The school is but one example of community welcome. The St. Thomas property has been home to Boy Scout troops, Young Life youth program, various twelve step programs, an inter-faith food pantry, the Columbus Boy Choir and Cantus Columbus, a professional choral ensemble. The parish was involved in the genesis of Columbus Hospice and the Pastoral Institute. The St. Thomas Church has always been known as a community and city gathering place for good things