History of St. Nicholas Church,

Saint Nicholas has been a landmark of the Wyoming Valley since the 1850’s. Our very first church was built on the site that is now occupied by Holy Redeemer High School formally Bishop Hoban. On Christmas Day, 1858, the second structure was dedicated, this time on Canal Street (now Pennsylvania Boulevard). When that building became too small for the congregation, our present magnificent church was built. The cornerstone was laid in 1883; the structure completed in 1887.

The immigrant German settlers who founded our church were concerned with Christian education. An elementary school occupied the basement of the second church until 1859 when a small wooden structure was built to house the school. This was supplanted by a brick building in 1868 and our current school was constructed in 1915. A high school was initiated in 1928 at this location and then merged to form Bishop Hoban in 1971. Now the building houses elementary students from the Saint Nicholas’ and Saint Mary’s parishes. Our present convent was dedicated in 1963; the rectory in 1972.

The Sisters of Christian Charity came to the parish from Germany in 1872 to teach at Saint Nicholas School. Currently, Saint Nicholas Convent provides a home for the Sisters who minister in the parish and the diocese of Scranton.

From the beginning, Saint Nicholas’ parishioners have been aware of the needs of the parish, both spiritual and physical, and have met them most admirably. In the year June 28, 2009 we were blessed to welcome our Hispanic community from Holy Rosary Church. This day was a graced and beautiful example of Church for all. The following pages indicate the parishes concern, a concern that reaches far beyond the confines of the parish walls to those in need. The responsibility accepted for that concern has always been a proud tradition at Saint Nicholas. With the help of God and the responsible support through stewardship of time, talent and treasure of each member, our parish will continue to grow in service to God and humanity.

Our mission is to save lives by the grace and truth of Jesus Christ and helping believers grow through faith, community formation, and social justice.

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