By the grace of God and the Authority of the Apostolic See, John R. Roach, Archbishop of Saint Paul and Minneapolis, issued a Decree in the spring of 1981, establishing a new parish in the Ham Lake area of Anoka County. Father Timothy F. Nolan, the founding pastor, conducted Masses for the first three years at the Bunker Hills Activity Center.

A majestic pyramid shaped church of stone and cedar, with seating for 1000, was built in 1983 & 1984, with volunteer labor accounting for sixty percent of the construction. This working side by side generated a unique sense of family and Christian Community that continues to be a hallmark of the parish as members generously support church efforts with their time, talent and tithes.

With worship as its first priority, the parish developed a strong, spirit-filled focus of praise and worship that permeates all its gatherings. There was from the beginning a strong belief that God has a special plan for this parish, a plan that is especially released in the heart of community worship.

Father Tim Nolan retired June 13, 2004 as pastor of the Church of Saint Paul (COSP). Before leaving, Father Nolan established an Endowment Fund to support future vocations. Anyone interested in donating to the Father Tim Nolan Vocation Fund should send their tax-deductible contribution to the Church of Saint Paul, designating support for the Endowment Fund.

Given the firm foundation of the parish, it continues to move forward under the guidance of Father Jon Vander Ploeg.