It is believed (but not known with certainty) that Mass was first celebrated in Custer circa 1877. Soon after, the Church of the Sacred Heart was established. The initial church building endured fires and moves. Sacred Heart experienced tremendous growth. Finally, the present church building was dedicated in December (14th) of 1958, and the parish was re-named under the patronage of St. John the Baptist (SJB). In 1994, SJB became “pastorally associated” (i.e., shared a pastor) with St. Rose of Lima in Hill City. Then, in July of 2000, these two parishes became pastorally associated with St. Anthony of Padua in Hot Springs and St. James in Edgemont to form what was known as “Black Hills Catholic Ministries”. In 2004, St. Rose of Lima in Hill City became pastorally associated with Blessed Sacrament in Rapid City.
Together, we have found that each of us is a vital part of our parish church. As part of our parish church, we look forward to your participation in the Parish Councils, Parish Committees, and organizations, as well as the various activities of our parish church.
