Sts. Simon & Jude Catholic Church: A Pillar of Faith in The Woodlands
Located at 26777 Glen Loch Drive, Sts. Simon & Jude Catholic Church (SSJ) has served as a cornerstone of the Catholic community in The Woodlands since it was officially established on August 8, 1979. What began with just 425 families has grown into a vibrant parish of nearly 4,000 families, continuing a legacy of spiritual growth and community service.
A Rich History of Growth
The parish was founded under the leadership of Reverend Monsignor Charles C. Domec, who was tasked with planting a church to unite the area’s growing Catholic population. The community celebrated its first Mass on October 6, 1980, and moved into its permanent church home in August 1981. Over the decades, the campus has expanded to include a Family Center (1989) and a dedicated Youth Ministry building (1996) to accommodate its dozens of active ministries.
Worship and Sacraments
Under the current leadership of Pastor Reverend Patrick Garrett, the parish offers an extensive schedule of services in both English and Spanish:
Weekend Masses: Celebrated on Saturdays (5:00 PM English, 7:00 PM Spanish) and Sundays (multiple times from 7:30 AM to 5:45 PM, including a 2:00 PM Spanish Mass).
Daily Mass: Held Monday through Friday at 8:30 AM and 12:00 PM, with an additional Wednesday evening Mass at 6:30 PM.
Reconciliation: Available on Wednesdays and Saturdays to provide spiritual healing and renewal.
Adoration: The parish emphasizes Eucharistic Adoration, particularly on Wednesdays and during “All Night Adoration” on the first Friday of each month.
A Community of Ministry
SSJ is known for its “heart-centered” approach to faith, offering various ways for parishioners to connect and grow. Key community features include:
Educational Programs: From “SSJ University” summer classes to Vacation Bible School and youth conferences, there are lifelong learning opportunities for all ages.
Support & Fellowship: The parish hosts unique events like the First Friday Fish Fry and family volleyball tournaments, as well as specialized support ministries like grief recovery and Spanish-speaking outreach.
Holy Grounds: A brand-new “Greeting Point” located outside the church helps new and long-time members learn about small groups, volunteer opportunities, and upcoming parish events.
For those unable to attend in person, the parish remains accessible through live-streamed services on their website and social media channels. Visit ssjwoodlands.com for more information on registration and current events.