History of Serra International

In the year 1934, four Catholic friends from Seattle, Washington, had an idea. They decided to meet regularly over a meal, to discuss how Christian values could be lived out in their professional lives. Soon more friends were joining them, and within several months they had decided on an additional focus: the encouraging of vocations to the priesthood and religious life. They chose Padre Junipero Serra, the noted Spanish missionary, as patron.

This small group has grown into Serra International. Serrans today are still dedicated to spiritual growth, continuing Catholic adult education, warm fellowship, and the encouragement of Church vocations.

Serra clubs are a great idea, and they have become a tradition of commitment.

Serra International chartered its first Serra club in 1935 in Seattle, Washington. Then, as now, the two great needs for the church were for informed Catholic lay leaders who understand and live their own Christian vocations to service, and for dedicated priests and religious.

In 1951, Serra International became aggregated to the Sacred Council for Catholic Education and the Pontifical Work for Priestly Vocations.

In the 1950s and 1960s, clubs were formed in Canada, Mexico, South America, Europe, Asia, and Australia.

In the 1970s and 1980s, National Councils were formed in Great Britain, Brazil, and Spain.

In 1986, Serra International voted to welcome women as well as men to membership in the organization.

Twelve national councils currently exist, including the USA Council, which was formed in 1994. The USA Council had originally included Canada; in the year 2000, Canada formed their own Council.

Today, there are more than 800 Serra clubs in 37 countries, with a total membership of more than 19,000 men, women and permanent deacons.

Each Serra Club is a member of both a national council and Serra International. Serra International, which has an office located in Chicago, links Serra clubs around the world.