Purdue Catholic Campus Ministry began in 1906 when the Catholic Club was founded. Students traveled across the Wabash River to attend services at St. Mary’s Cathedral in Lafayette. The Newman Club was chartered in 1927. In 1928, Reverend Leo Pursley was assigned as associate pastor of St. Mary’s Church and to work with Purdue students.
By 1963, St. Thomas Aquinas faced the challenge
of meeting the needs of a growing Catholic population
on campus. Under the leadership of Fr. Leo Piguet
and Fr. Leo Haigerty, the seating capacity of the
worship area was expanded from 350 to 1,200.
Large meeting rooms in the lower level provided
study areas and space for religious programs.
The year 2000 saw the arrival of the Dominican Friars from the Province of
St. Albert the
has developed between these two diverse groups is hope-filled and forward thinking regarding the great problems that face our Church. The home atmosphere created by the residents parishioners make St. Toms one of the great memories the Purdue students take with them into their lives. There are 20,000+ “alums” that are on our mailing list - and counting!
Click HERE for 'The Life of St. Thomas Aquinas'
