The Kolping Society was founded in 1849 by Father Adolph Kolping, a Catholic priest, in Cologne , Germany . Fr. Kolping was dedicated to the young people of his time, and his organization was intended to provide a Christian environment for the young men as they developed their work skills while, at the same time, offsetting the dangers to faith and morals that were prevalent with the times. In 1856 the first Kolping Branch in the United States was established by German immigrants In St. Louis , Missouri .

Today there are 13 branches In the United States with 2,500 members. The Kolping Society is now open in membership to all people who are in agreement with the objectives of the Society.

The Kolping Society is an International Organization that is made up of National Organizations throughout the world. The National Organizations represent the individual branches, which are called Kolping Families.

Internationally, Kolping now has groups in over 50 countries with a membership that extends to five continents. Although the Society Is part of the Catholic Church, one does not need to be a Catholic to join. Our membership currently includes many Christian beliefs, ages, and ethnic backgrounds. In this country, Kolping is a family-oriented society whose efforts are directed to the personal development of the individual through educational, charitable, social and religious activities. This is accomplished through the family-like atmosphere that exists among the members. The Kolping Family enables its members, through active participation, to serve and be a part of the community in which they reside, to give a good account of themselves in their work, in their families, and in society in general.

On October 27, 1991, Pope John Paul II beatified Fr. Adolph Kolping.  Members and friends worldwide gathered in Rome for this historic event. Blessed Adolph Kolping will continue to be our guide and inspiration.  His feast day is December 4th.