5 Decades Of Faith: What The Church Of The Epiphany OKC Is Planning For Its 50th Anniversary In 2026
The Church of the Epiphany in Oklahoma City (OKC) stands as a vibrant cornerstone of faith and community in the northwest part of the metropolitan area, a place where the message to "Love God, Serve Others, Go Make Disciples" is lived out daily. As of this current date, December 19, 2025, the parish is buzzing with anticipation for a monumental milestone: its 50th Anniversary celebration, set to take place throughout 2026.
Originally established to serve the burgeoning Catholic population in the area, the parish—officially known as Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church—has grown from a fledgling congregation to a thriving community of approximately 1,500 families. The upcoming anniversary is not just a look back at its deep-rooted history, but a forward-looking celebration of its commitment to spiritual formation, community outreach, and welcoming all newcomers.
The Guiding Lights: History and Current Leadership
The history of the Epiphany of the Lord Parish is a testament to the growth of the Catholic community in Oklahoma City. The parish was formally established in 1975, a pivotal year that marked the beginning of a dedicated spiritual home for families in the northwest quadrant. Early on, the church was located at the Catholic Pastoral Center, a key detail that is now central to its anniversary plans.
The community quickly blossomed, celebrating its tenth anniversary in the summer of 1986 under the leadership of then-Pastor John Michalicka, boasting a membership of 1,050 families.
Current Clergy and Staff at Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church
The parish's success today is shepherded by a dedicated team of clergy and staff, ensuring its mission remains central to all operations. The pastoral leadership is a crucial entity in the life of the church:
- Pastor: Reverend Stephen Bird
- Associate Pastor: Reverend Vic Luong
- Deacons: Deacon Frank Alexander and Deacon Eric Conrady
Father Stephen Bird, a well-respected figure within the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, continues to lead the congregation with a focus on spiritual growth and community service.
The Road to 2026: The 50th Anniversary Celebration
The most current and exciting development for the Church of the Epiphany OKC is the approaching 50th anniversary in 2026. This jubilee year is being meticulously planned by staff, volunteers, and parishioners, with organizational efforts beginning as early as the fall of 2023.
The anniversary provides a powerful opportunity to connect the parish's past with its future, honoring the foundational members while engaging the next generation of disciples. Several key initiatives are underway to commemorate this half-century of faith.
The Search for Epiphany “Legacy Members”
A central component of the 2026 celebration is the active search for "Legacy Members." The Archdiocese of Oklahoma City has put out a call to the public to find any person who attended the Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church when it was located at its original site—the Catholic Pastoral Center.
This initiative is designed to gather stories, photos, and memories from the parish's earliest days, ensuring the community's founding spirit is preserved and celebrated during the jubilee events. Connecting with these original members is vital for the historical record and the spiritual continuity of the parish.
A Pillar of Service: Ministries and Annual Events
Beyond its historical significance, the Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church remains a beacon of active ministry, offering numerous programs that cater to diverse needs within the congregation and the wider Oklahoma City community. The church's mission to "Serve Others" is exemplified through its robust schedule of annual events and ongoing formation opportunities.
Key Annual Parish Events
The church calendar is marked by several festive and community-focused annual events that draw in parishioners and neighbors alike. These events are key to fostering the friendly, multigenerational community vibe the church is known for.
- The Feast of the Epiphany Celebration: An annual celebration that is central to the church's name and identity, often featuring a children's Christmas Pageant and other festive activities.
- The Gigantic Parish Picnic: A major social gathering held each year, offering a chance for the 1,500 families to connect outside of Mass times in a casual, friendly setting.
- Newcomer Classes: While not a single event, the church regularly hosts newcomer classes (typically 2-3 times a year) to integrate new members, breaking down the history of the Catholic Church and the parish itself.
Ongoing Spiritual Formation and Community Outreach
The church places a high value on spiritual formation and intellectual discussion. One of the ongoing programs includes a weekly reading discussion group that meets on Sunday mornings. This group delves into the weekly scriptural readings, providing a space for deeper reflection and theological conversation.
Furthermore, the Epiphany community is actively involved in the broader outreach efforts of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City. Ministries like Project Gabriel, a parish-based ministry supported by Catholic Charities that offers pro-life ministry and resources, are often supported and promoted by Epiphany, showcasing their commitment to social justice issues.
The overall atmosphere is described as casual, friendly, and spirit-filled, blending a traditional liturgy with a modern, welcoming approach that appeals to young families and multigenerational worshippers. The programs also focus on areas like Faith and Work, and Young Adults, ensuring relevance across all age groups.
Looking Ahead: The Future of Epiphany in OKC
As the Epiphany of the Lord Catholic Church moves toward its 50th Anniversary, the focus remains on strengthening its core mission. The search for Legacy Members and the planning of celebratory events for 2026 highlight a commitment to honoring its past while investing in its future. The vibrant community, guided by the leadership of Fr. Stephen Bird and his team, continues to be a crucial hub for faith, formation, and service in northwest Oklahoma City. The parish is not just a building; it is a dynamic, evolving community dedicated to making disciples and serving God, ensuring its beacon of faith shines brightly for the next fifty years.
For anyone new to the area or seeking a spiritual home, the Church of the Epiphany OKC offers a welcoming environment rooted in Catholic tradition but energized by a modern, service-oriented spirit. The upcoming anniversary year promises to be a powerful time of reflection and renewal for all who participate.
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