REV. FAATHER P. J. BECKER. There is in this section of the state no priest who has gained greater prominence, not alone ! among the members of the Catholic Church, but also among the clergy and laymen of other denominations, than the rector of the Assumption Church of the Blessed Virgin Mary, of Centralia, and the popularity he has gained is a just tribute to his merits. A profound scholar and thinker, his attainments have taken a wide range science, literature, theology, history, etc. He is a forcible and eloquent speaker, an extensive reader and a close observer. His pastorate of the church at Centralia dates from September, 1881.
The subject of this sketch was born in Jacksonville, ILL., May 15, 1856. The rudiments of his education were acquired in the parochial schools of that city, and he afterward conducted his studies in St. Joseph's College, at Teutopolis, and Sacred Heart College, now a convent of the Sisterhood of the Precious Blood, at Ruma, ILL. His theological course was completed at St. Francis College, Milwaukee, Wis., from which institution he was graduated in 1881. From boyhood it had been his ambition to enter the priesthood, and after completing his theological studies he at once entered upon his chosen life work.
At Alton, ILL., July 29, 1881, Father Becker was ordained to the ministry of the Catholic Church, Bishop Joseph Baltes performing the ceremony of ordination. In September following he was appointed to the charge at Centralia, ILL., and has been with the congregation at this place ever since.
Upon coming here he found the membership small, the building old, and a lack of interest pervading the entire congregation, but through his efforts the membership was rapidly increased and a new interest was felt in every department of the work.
In 1891 a new church edifice was commenced, and it is now completed. The structure is built of pressed brick and stone, and is handsomely adorned with stained glass windows, manufactured by E. F. Kerwin, of St. Louis. In point of excellence and beauty, the furnishings and altar correspond with the exterior of the edifice. The architecture is Gothic, and the dimensions are 41 x 111 feet. The building cost about $30,000 and is the most modern in appointments and elegant in appearance of all the churches in southern Illinois. It is the intention to place a town clock in the spire. The church will indeed be to its occupants "a thing of beauty and a joy for ever." Great credit is due to the architect, N. H. Melcher, of St. Louis, whose ability is proved by the imposing and attractive building he has constructed.
The present church membership consists of about ninety families. There are two parochial schools, attended by about ninety pupils and in charge of two Poor Hand Maids of Christ, of Fort Wayne, Ind. Two other sisters devote their time to hospital work. There is a good choir in the church, and everything is done to make the temple of worship a pleasant and attractive place to members, and visitors as well. Morning services are held from eight to ten o'clock Sunday, and the afternoon services are held at three o'clock. In addition to this work Father Becker has charge of a mission at Patoka, which he visits once a month. There are about twenty-five families in the congregation, and the membership is constantly increasing.
Source: "Portrait and Biographical Record Clinton, Washington, Marion and Jefferson Counties, Illinois"
Chapman Publishing Co, Chicago, 1894
Pages 266 - 269
Submitted by Sandy (Whalen) Bauer