When the Bishop of the Diocese of Texas and a group of Episcopalians in the growing Clear Lake area began planning what would become St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church, they borrowed a simple line as their rallying cry: “If you build it, they will come.”

The first planning meeting took place on December 21, 1964—the Feast of St. Thomas—with The Rt. Rev. John E. Hines. In recognition of that day, the new mission was named The Church of St. Thomas. From the beginning, the vision included not only a parish, but a school for young children—both as a ministry and as a way of building community. Together, they became St. Thomas the Apostle Episcopal Church and School.

The first Holy Eucharist was celebrated on January 3, 1965 in a local motel meeting room, with about 35 people gathered. From those modest beginnings, both church and school grew steadily alongside the surrounding community.

Over the decades, the campus expanded to meet the needs of a thriving parish. A new sanctuary was completed in 1994, along with the renovation of Krist Hall. The church has also served as a place of refuge in times of crisis, including supporting families displaced by the Bal Harbor Apartments fire. Additional improvements followed in the years ahead: expanded offices, updated classrooms, and enhanced gathering spaces, all shaped by the hands and generosity of the community.

The school became a beloved part of St. Thomas for nearly six decades, nurturing generations of children and families. Known for its strong faculty, creative spirit, and commitment to early childhood formation, it left a lasting mark on countless lives. Like many schools, it faced increasing challenges in the years following the COVID-19 pandemic, and after 57 years of ministry, the school closed in 2023. Its legacy, however, continues in the lives it shaped and the community it helped build.

Now we’ve celebrated our 60th anniversary and St. Thomas continues to grow, not only in size, but in depth of ministry, outreach, and connection. While much has changed over the years, our calling remains the same:

We can do more—together.