Saint John the Baptist, Unity

St. John the Baptist was established in 1911 as a mission of the Missionary Confraternity of Christian Doctrine (MCCD).  The diocese formed the MCCD to bring religious instruction to Catholics living in small, isolated communities who did not have easy access to an existing church. The first known Mass celebrated in Unity took place on May 12, 1911.  At first, Mass was celebrated in Unity Hall, a public school building.  By the end of 1911, the parish rented a private home for use for Sunday Mass.

In 1915, the parish became independent with the appointment of a resident pastor on October 25.  The parish continued to use the rented property for Mass while funds were raised for a new church.  Construction of the church began in 1917 and the completed structure was dedicated on July 14, 1918.

As time went on, the congregation continued to grow.  By the 1960's, plans were drawn up for a new church.  Ground for the church was broken on March 26, 1963.  The first Mass in the new building was celebrated on November 24, 1963, and the church was formally dedicated on January 5, 1964.  The old church was converted to a parish hall, but was eventually torn down.