OUR HISTORY

The year was 1934; the place was Seattle, Washington, and four Catholic friends had an idea. They decided to meet regularly over a meal to discuss how their Christian values could be lived out in their professional lives. Soon more friends were joining them, and within several months they had decided on an additional focus: the encouraging of vocations to the priesthood and religious life. They chose Padre Junipero Serra, the noted Spanish missionary, as patron.

This small group has grown into Serra International. Serrans today are still dedicated to spiritual growth, continuing Catholic adult education, warm fellowship, and the encouragement of Church vocations.

Serra clubs are a great idea, and they have become a tradition of commitment.

Serra International chartered its first Serra club in 1935 in Seattle, Washington. Then, as now, the two great needs for the church were for informed Catholic lay leaders who understand and live their own Christian vocations to service, and for dedicated priests and religious.

In 1951, Serra International became aggregated to the Sacred Council for Catholic Education and the Pontifical Work for Priestly Vocations.

In 1986, Serra International voted to welcome women as well as men to membership in the organization.

Today, there are more than 800 Serra clubs in 37 countries with a total membership of more than 19,000 men, women and permanent deacons. Each Serra club is a member of both a national council and Serra International. Serra International, which has an office located in Chicago, links Serra clubs around the world.

Read more about our Patron, Blessed Junipero Serra here.

Read more about the history of Serra Clubs International here

Read more about the Serra Club of Northern Kentucky by clicking here.