1919 the first Holy Mass was celebrated in Whiteville. Father McCourt presided at the mass celebrated at John Mastalerz's home. Earl Hill recalled that priests used to ride John Mastalerz's grocery-wagon around the counties visiting parishioners. It was on November 29 th, 1936 that Rev Fr Francis J. Howard responsible for the Whiteville Catholic Mission called all the parishioners to participate at the celebration of the Holy Mass in the Masonic Hall. Around 45 people from Whiteville, Chadbourn, Tabor City, and Lake Waccamaw were present at this historical event.

     Because of the number of Catholics in the area, Bishop William Hafe wrote the Extension Catholic Society for funds in order to build a church in Whiteville. A year later, Bishop Hafey received $2,000 due to the appeal of the Extension Society Magazine.

     On Saint Patrick's Day Bishop Eugene J. McGuiness visited Whiteville and gave orders to erect the Catholic Church. After months of construction, finally the Church was dedicated on Sunday, October 2nd, 1938. Bishop McGuiness presided and celebrated the ceremony. A reception followed the ceremony at the residence or Mrs. Richard M. Lewis Sr.. The non-Catholic friends were a part of the celebration and helped to make it a successful event.