Catholic West Virginia

Overcoming its tumultuous beginnings, the Roman Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston has matured into a distinguished and active voice for West Virginians. One of the most unique aspects of the diocese's 160-year history is the diversity of the landscape, culture, ethnicity, and dialect that characterizes the state's identity. From Wheeling to Beckley and Martinsburg to Parkersburg, the story of our diocese comes from the individuals who established and nurtured the Catholic faith in their local communities. Without generations of the dedicated faithful, the diocese would not have thrived. Through a variety of images, this book tells the story of the generations that continued striving to give a voice to this unique Catholic community. In addition, professional researchers and local readers alike will find this volume's rare perspective of history through the lived experience of the subjects refreshing.

Ryan Rutkowski, director of archives and records for the Roman Catholic Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, compiled Images of America: Catholic West Virginia after collecting photographs for the diocese's archives. A lifelong Catholic, Rutkowski presents images that reflect the faith, values, identity, and heritage of Catholic West Virginia.