Holy Family Parish, Shell Knob, MO
Holy Family Church, Shell Knob, MO. (Photos by G. Eckl)
Phone: (417) 858-2518 • Fax: (417) 858-6029
Mailing address: Holy Family Parish, PO Box 229, Shell Knob, MO 65747-0229
Pastor: The Very Rev. William M. Hodgson, [email protected]
Administrative Assistant: Alice Gebhardt
Email: [email protected]
Website: holyfamilyskmo.org
Also attends to St. Edward Parish, PO Box 492, Cassville, MO 65625-0492
History
Prior to the establishment of Holy Family Parish as a mission by Bishop Bernard F. Law on Dec. 22, 1978, the Catholics in Shell Knob attended Mass at St. Edward in Cassville or St. Ann’s in Berryville AR. Until it was officially made a parish, the community was attended by pastors from SS. Peter and Paul Parish in Pulaskifield and then from Sacred Heart Parish in Verona.
Holy Family is “the parish the lake built.” Virtually all its members moved into the Shell Knob area to make their retirement homes in small communities along the shores of Table Rock Lake and in the rugged beauty of Mark Twain National Forest. As was the case in most of southern Missouri, it was necessary to overcome misconceptions and distrust of Catholics. This has led the parishioners to become ambassadors of good will through community outreach projects. For example, area church women are invited to a Valentine tea which has become not only a great time for fellowship, but also an excellent way for parishioners to witness the Catholic faith to Protestant neighbors.
Recently the parish expanded worship facilities. At the dedication ceremonies on April 13, 2004, ministers as well as laity from various Protestant Churches sang with the choir. The new church reflects the area in environment and ecumenical spirit, hosting events from the region. Holy Family parishioners understand that their strength is built on their unity and family spirit.
Parish related
For current parish Mass times and other activities and events click HERE. Or, call the parish phone number.
GPS coordinates: N36° 35.057’, W093° 35.813’ (click here for map)
Physical address: Holy Family Church, 24036 FR 1255, Shell Knob, MO