Catholic Church

Parish History

History of St. Benedict Catholic Church

East Cooper Catholic Community was established by Bishop David Thompson in May 1999. The first community gathering was at a town hall meeting on August 18, 1999 that was soon followed with the first Sunday Mass on September 5, 1999 at Thomas Lynch Hall in Dunes West, Mt. Pleasant.

The founding administrator was Fr. Paul Brenninkmeijer. He led the parish on a faith journey “to be a community of learners, discovering how to be Christ for each other.” His emphasis was on stewardship, faith formation, ecumenism and community building.

On February 25, 2001 there was an announcement of the parish’s new name – St. Benedict. Our Benedictine-style community inspires many aspects of our parish life including communal celebrations of the Sacraments, outreach and a deep commitment to stewardship.

During the next nine years, the Eucharist resided in a room in a double wide mobile home in Awendaw, known affectionately as "The Mansion," where Father Paul celebrated daily Mass, held meetings, religious classes, RCIA, and conducted church business.  St. Benedict Parish had grown to over 350 registered families.  The Sunday Liturgy was celebrated at Cario Middle School in Park West, and eventually he added a Vigil Mass at All Saints Lutheran Church.

In 2005, the Diocese of Charleston acquired 54 acres off of Highway 17N at Darrell Creek Trail. On this property is the home of the first church building of St. Benedict Parish.

On January 13, 2008 Monsignor Chet Moczydlowski was installed as the second pastor of St. Benedict Parish. Monsignor Chet brought with him a wealth of parish leadership and building experience.

The Church undertook a capital campaign for the building of a Church. Bishop Guglielmone dedicated this new home on March 18, 2011.  As we move forward, people of every age and background are welcome to join us in being Christ for each other.

On February 20, 2012 Father Daniel Papineau was welcomed as the administrator for St. Benedict. Father Dan Papineau, our third priest, came from St. Mary Magdalene Church in Simpsonville, SC.

We are further blessed to now have a chapel of Eucharistic Adoration in honor of St. Joseph, and a Columbarium for the repose of the remains of those who have died.