Originally called Offero, Saint Christopher, began as a pagan.  He was born during the third century at Canaan, a region encompassing modern-day Israel.  Did you know that he was a well-built, strong man and so tall that he was sometimes referred to as a giant?  One day he met a holy hermit who guided travelers to the safe points where they could cross a dangerous river.  Then took the place of the hermit but instead of just guiding travelers, he would often carry them across the river.  He paid close attention to helping any small children. 

Saint Christopher converted to Christianity through the teachings of the holy hermit.  He was baptized as “Christoffero” which eventually led to the name Christopher.  In AD250 the Roman Emperor Decius issued an edict for the suppression of Christianity.  Christopher was one of many arrested and executed during these persecutions.  He is represented in Christian Art, usually shown with his emblems, the Christ Child, a tree in bloom and a torrent.  Saint Christopher is loved and honored in the churches both of the East and the West.  In addition to being the patron and protector of all travelers, he is also invoked against storms and sudden death.  July 25th is his feast day.

To honor Saint Christopher, there is a very welcoming church in Kane County Utah. 

Saint Christopher’s Catholic Church is located in Kanab, known locally as “Little Hollywood” due to its history as a filming location for mostly western movies and television series, just north of the Arizona state line.  Kanab was

first settled in 1864 and the town was founded in 1870.   Situated in the “Grand Circle” area, Kanab is centrally located among Vermilion Cliffs National Monument, Bryce Canyon National Park, the Grand Canyon (North Rim), Zion National Park, and Lake Powell.   So, if you find yourself traveling through any of these areas, consider attending the 9am Sunday Mass at Saint Christopher’s Catholic Church ∙ 39 W 200 S ∙ Kanab, UT 84741 ∙ Phone: (435) 644-3414 ∙ Website: https://www.christthekingutah.org/.

Sunday is a great opportunity to visit Kanab and Saint Christopher’s Catholic Church, but there is also daily service Monday through Saturday at certain times of the year. 

The church is easily located, just off the main road and highway close.  The tall dark red brick steeple can be seen as your turn onto the street with the tall white cross on top.  From the outside, the church is dark red brick and the exquisite stained glass windows can be viewed for the new church. (I was not able to see the interior.)  Since the church is under construction, they are currently celebrating mass in the attached hall, which they have transformed beautifully. 

They are very hospitable and welcome you from the time you enter the door.  There is  a guest book to sign and give you a bulletin, a welcome smile and handshake.  This is one of the churches, that during tourist season, greets people from all over the world, so I suppose they have plenty of experience.

A handsome statue of Joseph is atop a marble and white wooden pillar and just behind the pulpit.  The altar table is intricately detailed with an inlaid wooden cross and flowers and has two candles on top a white linen cloth.  Behind the altar table is a simple, yet elegant crucifix hanging on the back wall. There are chairs for the ministers of the mass on each side of the crucifix along with a Credence Table.  The left of the altar is adorned with a lovely statue of Mary atop a pillar.  Another pulpit is just to the right of Mary along with a wooden stand that holds the days’ music numbers.   Just to the left of the stand and along the left wall, is a is a framed window that has sliding doors and opens to the kitchen.  The kitchen door is next to the window along with storage doors and the entrance.

(Back in the 1950’s a trailer with two rows
of seating was all this community had.
At present the Church is maintained and
supported by only twenty-five families.
The percentage of Catholics in Utah is only 6%. )

Father Rick Sherman was the presider for today’s mass and gives a great homily.  The priests that service Saint Christopher’s Catholic Church are from Christ the King Catholic Church in Cedar City.  They are dedicated and put many miles on their vehicles.  Lord, bless the traveling priests and their faithful parishioners.  Please give them this day the gift You gave Your chosen ones on the way to Emmaus: Your presence in their hearts, Your holiness in their souls, Your joy in their spirits. And let them see You face to face in the breaking of the Eucharistic bread.  Amen.

(There is a very nice article written for the Intermountain Catholic, back in 2007 that has 3 photos of the church before renovations and was during the celebration of 50 years.

https://www.icatholic.org/article/st-christopher-church-kanab-marks-50-years-4113215)