History and Roots

St. Bartholomew Catholic Church opened in 1859 in Columbus, Indiana. In those early years, a few families met in homes. They prayed and shared potluck meals while dreaming of a permanent church. Soon, they pooled money and built a simple wooden building. That first church became the parish’s foundation. The humble start shows how ordinary people used faith to build a better future for Bartholomew County.

Building the Dream

By the early 1900s, the congregation grew. The old wooden church was too small. In 1909 the community raised money and organized the construction of a stone‑and‑brick sanctuary that still stands today. The Diocese of Indianapolis led the project. Parishioners held fairs, raised funds, and helped with labor. Their effort paid off, and the new church became a beacon of hope. Families gathered there for worship, celebrations, and comfort.

Architecture That Inspires

The current building was designed by Vonnegut and Bohn. They combined Romanesque strength with Gothic Revival lines. Thick, rounded arches frame the entrance. Tall, pointed windows draw the eye upward. The stone façade is strong and timeless. The bell tower chimes softly on Sunday mornings and adds charm to the Columbus skyline. Even passersby pause to admire the graceful design and feel the story of faith it tells across generations.

Stained‑Glass Stories

Inside, colored light flows through the stained‑glass windows. Skilled artisans hand‑crafted each pane, showing moments from Christ’s life: birth, the loaves, crucifixion, and resurrection. The glass blends traditional craft with modern tech, giving bright hues and clear details. When the morning sun shines, the interior glows warmly, making the pews feel like a small sanctuary. It invites quiet reflection and helps many feel closer to the stories each Sunday.

Programs for All Ages

St. Bartholomew offers programs for everyone, from toddlers to seniors. Little ones attend Sunday School, learning Bible stories with games, crafts, and songs. Teens join youth groups that mix faith talks, service projects, and social events. Adults can attend Bible study circles, liturgical workshops, and music ministries. The church calendar is full of activities that help anyone grow spiritually or find a caring community.

Service and Outreach

The parish is committed to service. It partners with local charities, schools, and food banks to help the Columbus community. Volunteers hold monthly food drives, collect blankets for the homeless, and tutor children after school. The annual “Hope Fair” offers free meals, medical screenings, and counseling. These programs show that faith is about action and standing with those in need.

Community Warmth

St. Bartholomew welcomes every visitor with a friendly smile, a warm handshake, and sometimes a cup of coffee. Parishioners are open and ready to listen, share a story, or sit quietly. This hospitality makes strangers feel like neighbors and long‑time members feel at home. The sense of belonging keeps people coming back year after year.

Faith in Today’s World

In a divided world, St. Bartholomew reminds us that community and compassion matter. The church welcomes people of all backgrounds, ages, and experiences. It offers education, outreach, and a space for honest conversation. Members are encouraged to live out their faith in everyday actions. The result is a living example that love, service, and respect can bring people together even when the world feels broken.

Follow St. Bartholomew on Tabella

To learn more, stay updated on events, or join the community, follow St. Bartholomew on Tabella. It is a friendly way to stay connected, discover new ways to participate, and keep in touch with a parish that cares about every visitor. Whether you’re a lifelong Catholic, a seeker, or simply love beautiful architecture, the invitation is open—join the family and experience the warmth, beauty, and devotion that define St. Bartholomew Catholic Church.