Two Stops for Faith and Fun
About four or five years ago I wrote about St. Mary and Joseph Catholic Church near Plantersville, Texas. I wrote about it, as it is not as well-known as the churches near Schulenberg. I thought my readers might like to hear about both places. A newspaper published it.
We met the Priest, who shared his thoughts about their ongoing growth. I was captivated by the experience. Later, another Catholic church in New Braunfels borrowed the story from me for their church magazine, too.
Last week, while looking for a good topic for my website, I decided to call St. Mary’s to see if they might like another short story, sharing about their continuous growth. I learned much more than I expected.
Wow! An old house stood lonely in the field next to them on our prior visit. Little did I know the church bought it from the owners when the Klein family decided to sell it. The church has blossomed with new space for the church offices along with new parking space. Today that dilapidated, old house is a beautiful, old white house with room for the Offices and other space near for St. Vincent de Paul members serving disadvantaged families. Additionally, they are growing regular programs for the community with creative new ideas that work. Father Edward C. Kucera, Jr. (often called Father Ed) serves as the pastor for both St. Mary’s and its companion mission, St. Joseph Catholic Mission in Stoneham, quite close to see and hear more stories.
Father Ed offers wise thinking and significant insight with his “let’s get this done now,” recognizing what is happening with his leadership in the area. It’s more than a church. It’s a community. When asked how large the congregation is, Bob Daves, the Parish Administrator, shared that they have 1725 households.
How can that be? The population of Plantersville shows less than 600 people. I noticed a new gas station, not yet open as we passed Highway 1774 this week. I assume it will probably have snacks and drinks on popular Route 105 for those who need a quick stop.
The high school kids attend Navasota schools which is 15 miles one way. Other schools exist, but much closer to the church for the younger students.
The wise and chipper Priest determines methods to keep his parishioners busy and productive. For instance, the church started a new group for young, married couples who meet and help with whatever needs to be accomplished. This time of the year the church always has wonderful sales, resales and fun for all. They advertise and have quality items to sell.
Another surprise for me is that the well-known Renaissance Fair is only eight miles east of Plantersville. When people want fun in the Fall they may stop for Mass before heading toward the crazy-people-world of the Renaissance Fair. Both St. Mary’s and the Renaissance activities work with each other, trying new ways to help others. For instance, the Priest offers Mass at 6:30 a.m. for employees from the Renaissance Fair before their gates open.
Their 132nd Annual Bazaar offers a plethora of booths for clever items, music, and food on September 6, 2026, to welcome fall. Find a treasure for your pocket. If you are going to the Renaissance Fair, I urge you to stop at St. Mary’s for a treat. Also, their Corner Shoppe has small Catholic gifts for sale, like small to carry in your pocket.
Bring items you wish to donate for the auctions by August 23rd for September live and silent auctions on September 6, 2026. Exciting items may include sports events for gift baskets, even jewelry.
A major activity in the fall at St. Mary’s brings more people on November 7, 7:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. on Highway 105. Then don your costumes (if you want to be crazy and silly that day) and drive the eight miles down the road. I talked with a friend today who has plans to attend the Renaissance Fair for his 14th time (gasp!).
Think about visiting the church for the beauty of the inside and outside, not only for the enjoyment of homemade food, but an extra helping of cakes. Freeze the cakes for a winter surprise in your refrigerator. Even if you never attend the well-known Renaissance Fair, you will enjoy fun and food, the rolling hills, beautiful fall shades of brown and yellow to help you remember the trip, along with the people and their friendliness at St. Mary and Joseph to see the church and find quality items.
It’s great for all ages and remember to pray for good weather!