Parish History
Saint Andrew Parish was established in 1953 by Bishop Thomas K. Gorman. The first pastor, Msgr. Thomas S. Zachry, celebrated the first Mass in nearby Bluebonnet School, where all Masses were celebrated until the church auditorium and school buildings were completed. The first Mass in the new church building was celebrated on August 22, 1954. Parish membership was 500 families. Saint Andrew School opened in September 1954, staffed by the Sisters of Saint Mary of Namur.
In 1956, Msg. Clair E. McTamney became pastor serving until 1968. During this period, eight new classrooms, a cafeteria and a convent were built. The convent was occupied by the Sisters of the Holy Family of Nazareth, who had assumed leadership of the school. Msgr. William J. Smyth served as pastor from 1968 until 1969, at which time Msgr. Charles B. King became pastor. In 1969 the parish was divided and a large southwest portion became St. Bartholomew parish. The school became interparochial to accommodate children from both parishes.
The Parish Council was formed in 1970. From that time through 1979, a new library, science room and four classrooms were added to the school. The former church auditorium became the school auditorium, as the present church was completed and dedicated on November 30, 1971 – the feast of Saint Andrew, its patron. A community center, gymnasium and nursery facilities were completed, and eight acres of additional land were acquired for athletic fields.
In 1979, Rev. Richard Judge became pastor, serving until June 1984, when the administration of the parish was transferred to the Franciscan Friars, Third Order Regular (T.O.R.). Rev. Peter Lyons, T.O.R., who had been the Catholic Campus Minister at Texas Christian University, became pastor. In June 1988, Father Peter was transferred to St. Francis Preparatory School, Spring Grove, PA, as Headmaster. Rev. Warren L. Murphy, T.O.R., pastor of St. Thomas Parish, became pastor at Saint Andrew.
The community of Saint Andrew considers itself a family, sharing stewardship of Faith, Service and Gratitude with each other for the benefit of all. Many of its programs are financed by subsidies from the parish budget, thus eliminating the necessity of fees. This method of operation can only be accomplished through the generosity of parishioners. Presently, the weekend Mass attendance is about 2,500. Approximately 3,200 families are registered.