I'm New
Welcome to St. Paul Catholic Parish
OUR MISSION
Guided by our belief in the Gospel message and by our baptism,
the members of Saint Paul Roman Catholic Church
strive to answer God's call to love, serve, and to worship.
When You Visit
Visiting a new church can be intimidating
What should I wear? Where do I park? Where do my kids go?
We understand the many thoughts that can come from visiting a new church, so we want you to feel completely comfortable when you visit. Below are some frequently asked questions. If you have any additional questions, don't hesitate to contact us or talk with an usher when you visit.
Interesting Facts About Our Church
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History of St. Paul Parish
We extend to you a most sincere welcome as you consider registering with our faith community at Saint Paul Parish!
Our parish was established in 1845 and we are joyfully celebrating our 179th anniversary this year!
The Congregation of North Canton, Ohio, formerly known as New Berlin, Ohio, was formed in 1845 with thirty pioneer families. These thirty families living in the Village of North Canton and upon the surrounding farms, filled with a desire for the honor of God and the salvation of immortal souls, and longing for the consolations of holy Religion, formed a committee to provide, if possible, ways and means for the establishment of a Catholic parish in North Canton.
The nearest Catholic Church was in the city of Canton, over six miles away, which in those early days of unpaved, unimproved roads and lack of transportation made regular attendance at Holy Mass on Sundays and the reception of the Sacraments well nigh impossible for all, but the most hardy.
It was not an uncommon sight to behold an entire family aboard a wagon drawn by oxen, wending its weary way to Church in Canton, starting at an early hour and not returning until well after noon. Yes, they were people, strong in faith and zealous in the saving of their souls.
Soon after the committee was formed, actual construction of a church building was begun in 1845 and completed in two years when the new Parish of North Canton had the supreme happiness of witnessing the dedication and first Mass in the new building.
~ Excerpts taken from the "Historical Review - 1847-1922" by Rev. R.C. Kotheimer
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Church Size
Serve On SundaysThere are approximately 2500 registered families in our parish and a multitude of ministries serving those in our parish family. We recognize that God has blessed each of us with various gifts that we can offer to a ministry in our community as we strive to build up His kingdom here on earth. As we work together toward this goal, we encourage all Parishioners to serve in one (or more!) of our ministries.
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All Are Welcome
We welcome those who are newly registered parishioners here at Saint Paul. We encourage those who are interesting in learning more about our church and school to contact the Parish Office at 330.499.2201, view our website and prayerfully consider registering to become a member of our faith community.
For parents with infants and small children—you are MOST welcome! We are one family here and are not distracted by the murmurs and wiggles of small children. Begin now and you will set a sound example of faith in practice for them. When hunger, thirst or boundless energy seems to overtake them, please feel free to spend some time in the Gathering area where you can still listen to the Mass.
Just as we encourage our Parish family members to serve in a ministry, we also ask to be informed of any special needs YOU may have. We want you to feel welcome and to know that you are a very important part of our parish!
Frequently Asked Questions
What should I wear?
We want you to feel comfortable. After all, we are thrilled that you're joining us and want you to be more focused on the Mass than what you're wearing. In the summertime, it's not uncommon to see people wearing sandals, shorts, and a shirt. Others prefer to still put on their "Sunday best," and that's fine too! However, we do request that shorts be of a conservative length (no “short-shorts”) and that in general, clothing be respectable and conservative.
How do I get to St. Paul Catholic Church?
Our parish is located at 241 S Main St North Canton, OH 44720. Here is a map.
Where should I park?
We have several large parking lots available--on Main Street are two smaller lots with access to our school buildings. Behind the Church, on the corner of Harmon and Cole Streets is a large lot with handicapped parking. Also, between Harmon and West Maple streets is another large lot. There is also parking on Cole and Harmon streets.
I'm not Catholic... so, how do I know when to sit, stand, and kneel?
You can follow along in the missal. Most of the time you will be able to find a book in your pew that will have the readings, prayers, and songs available for you to use in order to follow along with the Mass. Though the missal lists the prayers, not all have the physical actions of prayer listed. In this case, it is best to follow the lead of those around you.
I'm not Catholic... is it okay for me to participate in communion?
You may be invited to come forward and receive a blessing during Holy Communion. To do this, cross your arms over your chest so that the Priest (only a priest can give a blessing in this way) will know not to administer Communion. It is also perfectly acceptable to remain in your pew at this time and pray. There are many reasons why the Church asks those who have not yet received their First Holy Communion to not partake in this Holy Sacrament. Catholics firmly believe that the Eucharist is the body, blood, soul and divinity of Jesus Christ. Please respect their beliefs by not receiving Communion at this time.
Am I expected to put money in the offering?
It is not necessary to put money in the offertory basket, but if you would like to make a gift to our church it is greatly appreciated!
Importance of registration
A Catholic parish is the single most important part of forming a Catholic community. This is where we continue the mission of Jesus Christ. This is where we publicly express our faith, joining together with others to give witness of our communion with God and with one another.
There are many reasons to register
- A sense of belonging and identity in a parish community.
- Provides the parish community with a way to welcome you.
- In times of joy and in times of struggle, it is comforting to have the support of a faith family.
- It is a commitment to practice your faith.
- Gives a chance for you and your family to be counted and heard in the parish.
- Being included in the demographics of the parish helps in the planning for the needs of the parish.
- Gives the parish a way to connect with you.
- In order to receive the Sacraments of Baptism, First Reconciliation, First Holy Communion, Confirmation, or Holy Matrimony you will need to be a registered member.
- For religious education instruction and Sacramental preparation, the families of those attending must also be registered parishioners.
(An online new parishioner registration form is provided below. If you would prefer to print a hard-copy form to write in your answers and return to the parish office, CLICK HERE)