Fr. Flaherty 1927-1929

In the Fall of 1926, Bishop John Morris determined an additional parish was needed in Fort Smith. In early 1927, he appointed Father John Flaherty as Pastor to begin selecting a site and planning construction of a church to be called Christ the King. Pope Pius XI had declared just two year earlier the new Feast of Christ the King. Ground was broken on Sunday, October 30, 1927, the Feast of Christ the King. Seven months later, on June 3, 1928, our "Little Stone Church" was dedicated.

The church was designed by Little Rock architect Charles L. Thompson. It was constructed of native stone in a Spanish Mission style, with a cross atop the small belfry over the entrance. It had a seating capacity of 130. The stone walls inside were not covered but were left in their rough hewn form. A 3 room apartment at the rear of the church served as the priest's residence.

Since that June day, many diocesan priests have served the parish as pastor. In November, 1928, Father Flaherty was obliged to resign on account of illness. He was succeeded by Father McBarron in 1929.

Fr. McBarron 1929 - 1931

Fr. Tynin 1931 - 1932

Msgr. Fisher 1932 - 1933

Fr. Murphy 1933 - 1934

Fr. Laughlin 1934 - 1945

January 1943

Over the next 5 years illness and death resulted in the parish being served by 3 pastors, Fr, Tynin, Msgr. Fisher and Father Murphy. In 1934 the Bishop appointed Father Laughlin as Pastor. He served for 11 years and oversaw the construction of the first rectory and Jewett Hall.

Msgr. Gallagher 1945-1947

Fr. Butterbach 1947-1960

In 1945, Msgr. Gallagher was appointed Pastor. He was followed in 1947 by Father Butterbach, who was responsible for a congregation that had grown to 200 souls.

On January 28, 1948 disaster struck. The pastor, Father Butterbach, was awakened to be told that the church was on fire. The Fort Smith Fire Department responded promptly and was able to save the walls and roof.

NEXT
Return to Main Site