Saint Thomas Catholic Church of Tukwila was originally known as Saint Joseph Mission. Our first church was built in 1913. As the mission grew in numbers, in 1946, we were elevated to the status of a canonical parish, and Father John C. O’Connell was established as our first pastor. Two years later, our name was changed to Saint Thomas (the Apostle). In 1963 we moved to our current site, and our new church was formally dedicated by Bishop Thomas Gill on October 20, 1963.

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The first Mass known to have been celebrated in Des Moines occurred in January of 1927, with forty-five people in attendance. Two months later our current property was purchased. In June of that year Saint Philomena Mission was formally established. In 1952, we were elevated to the status of a canonical parish, with our first pastor, Father Joseph Orpen. Five years later, our current building was constructed and on April 23, 1957, Archbishop Thomas Connolly consecrated the church and its marble altar. 

 

In all this, at both Saint Thomas and Saint Philomena, numerous priests, men and women religious, men and women lay-faithful, have contributed to and sustained our parish communities, bringing them to where we are now.

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In July 2024, the Archdiocese of Seattle formally began Partners in the Gospel, a restructuring of its parishes, that formally connected Saint Thomas and Saint Philomena. 

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Partners in the Gospel will gradually lead us to understand how we will function as one canonical parish, serving the people of God and carrying out Jesus’ mission, including whatever ways we continue in our two current locations.