Colorado’s 150th anniversary shines a spotlight on the enduring influence of its Catholic community, whose roots reach back to the 18th century.

Franciscan friars Francisco Atanasio Domínguez and Silvestre Vélez de Escalante first brought the faith into the region in 1776, paving the way for settlers from Taos to found San Luis in 1851—the oldest town in Colorado.

The late 1800s saw rapid growth, with Bishop Joseph Projectus Machebeuf establishing the Diocese of Denver during the Gold Rush era.

Archbishop James R. Golka’s installation in March 2026 marked a new era of leadership, following Archbishop Samuel J. Aquila.

Community activism remains strong, including a moving 2025 migrant rights vigil in Aurora, and the 25th St. Patrick’s Gala raising $375,000 for local needs.

Legal battles continue over religious freedom, with Colorado’s Catholic preschools before the U.S. Supreme Court in 2026.

Today, new shrines and ongoing service highlight Catholicism’s deep roots and evolving role across the state.