Since its founding, Blessed Sacrament Parish has been guided by faithful pastors who have led our community with prayer, vision, and dedication. Each shepherd has helped shape parish life, nurturing a people rooted in the ​Eucharist and committed to living the Gospel. We are grateful for their leadership and ​for the ways ​God has worked through them across generations. 

Pastors

Brief History: A living story of faith

Blessed Sacrament Parish was born out of faith, generosity, and hope for the future. On November 11, 1947, Rev. Louis Putz was officially appointed pastor of the newly-established parish serving parts of Waterloo and Cedar Falls. The young parish began with just 723 people in 200 households, a shared vision, and a deep trust in God's providence. With a generous gift of $2,000 from Sacred Heart Parish and the help of a personal loan, 17 acres of land were purchased—planting the seeds for what would become a thriving faith community.

The first Mass for Blessed Sacrament parishioners was celebrated on January 4, 1948, in the Little Theater of Edison School. One week later, Archbishop Rohlman formally established the parish, affirming what was already taking root: a community eager to worship, serve, and grow together.

By July 1948, a temporary church building was completed on Falls Avenue, allowing parish life to continue to flourish. Attention soon turned to education and formation. The cornerstone for the school was laid in September 1950, and the first wing was dedicated in March 1952, with later additions reflecting the parish’s steady growth. For many years, what is now the school cafeteria served as the parish’s worship space—a powerful reminder that the Church is first and foremost its people.

Construction of the present church and rectory began in July 1965. The cornerstone was laid in March 1966, and on Thanksgiving Day, November 24, 1966, the first Mass was celebrated in the new church. The building was officially dedicated by Archbishop Byrne on April 9, 1967, marking a new chapter centered firmly on the Eucharist.

In December 1991, the Anne Sulentic Parish Center was dedicated in celebration of the church’s silver jubilee. Additional wings were later added to unite the church, school, and parish center—symbolizing the interconnected life of worship, learning, and community.

From its humble beginnings, Blessed Sacrament Parish has grown to more than 1,100 households, supported by a strong spirit of stewardship and mission. Yet the heart of the story remains the same. The history of Blessed Sacrament is not simply about buildings or numbers—it is the story of God’s faithfulness and a community striving to build the reign of God, right here, in this corner of the world.

Today, this story continues—and you are warmly invited to be part of it. Whether you are new to the parish or have worshiped here for years, Blessed Sacrament remains a community shaped by faith, nourished by the Eucharist, and always open to those whom God is calling to walk this journey with us.