The Wheeling-Charleston Diocese is marking 175 years of service across West Virginia, and a significant part of that legacy resides within the Parkersburg Vicariate. Encompassing ten counties and numerous communities, this region’s Catholic presence is woven into the fabric of local life through its parishes, schools, missions, and chapels.
The Parkersburg Vicariate serves a broad geographical area, providing spiritual guidance and educational opportunities to residents of Wood, Wetzel, Tyler, Pleasants, Ritchie, Wirt, Mason, Jackson, Roane, and Calhoun counties. This includes towns and cities like New Martinsville, Paden City, Sistersville, St. Marys, Vienna, Parkersburg, Lubeck, Pennsboro, Elizabeth, Mason, Pt. Pleasant, Ravenswood, and Spencer. The diocese’s commitment to the region is demonstrated through its network of religious institutions and dedicated clergy.
Currently, the Very Rev. John Rice serves as the Vicar Forane, providing leadership and coordination within the vicariate. His role is crucial in ensuring the smooth operation and continued growth of the Catholic community throughout the area. The diocese, established in 1850, has consistently adapted to the changing needs of its congregations although upholding its core values.
Parishes Serving the Parkersburg Vicariate
The heart of the Catholic faith in the Parkersburg Vicariate lies within its established parishes. These communities offer regular Mass, sacraments, and faith formation programs. Key parishes include:
- Holy Redeemer, Spencer: Serving the spiritual needs of the Spencer community.
- Mater Dolorosa, Paden City: A cornerstone of faith in Paden City.
- St. Francis Xavier, Parkersburg: A prominent parish in the city of Parkersburg.
- St. John, St. Marys: Providing religious services to the residents of St. Marys.
- St. Margaret Mary, Parkersburg: Another vital parish within Parkersburg.
- St. Matthew, Ravenswood: Serving the Catholic community in Ravenswood.
- St. Michael, Vienna: A central parish in the Vienna area.
- St. Vincent De Paul, New Martinsville: Dedicated to serving the faithful in New Martinsville.
Expanding Outreach Through Missions
Beyond the established parishes, the Parkersburg Vicariate extends its reach through several missions. These smaller communities often serve more rural areas, bringing the sacraments and fellowship to those who may have limited access to a full-fledged parish. These missions include:
- Christ Our Hope Mission, Harrisville
- Holy Rosary Mission, Sistersville
- Sacred Heart Mission, Point Pleasant
- St. Elizabeth of Hungary Mission, Elizabeth
- St. Joseph Mission, Proctor
- St. Monica Mission, Lubeck
Chapels and Catholic Education
The vicariate also maintains chapels for smaller gatherings and private prayer. St. Joseph Chapel in Pennsboro provides a dedicated space for worship. Parkersburg Catholic Elementary School and Parkersburg Catholic High School are central to the diocese’s commitment to education, offering a faith-based learning environment for students in the region. These schools play a vital role in nurturing the next generation of Catholic leaders and community members.
A Legacy of Faith and Service
The Parkersburg Vicariate’s history is deeply intertwined with the broader story of the Wheeling-Charleston Diocese. Established in 1850 to serve the growing Catholic population of West Virginia, the diocese has consistently adapted to meet the evolving needs of its communities. The vicariate’s parishes, missions, and schools represent a continuing commitment to providing spiritual guidance, education, and social support. The diocese’s official website details its history and ongoing initiatives: https://www.dioceseofwheeling-charleston.org/
As the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston continues its sesquicentennial celebration, the Parkersburg Vicariate stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the dedication of its clergy and parishioners. Looking ahead, the vicariate will undoubtedly continue to adapt and innovate, ensuring that the Catholic faith remains a vibrant and integral part of the communities it serves. We encourage readers to share their own experiences and reflections on the impact of the Diocese and the Parkersburg Vicariate in the comments below.
