Pailists, a society of missionary priests of the Roman Catholic church, founded in New York in 1858 by Isaac Thomas Hecker. Father Hecker and his first associates belonged to the order of Redemptorists, and were laboring in the home mission in New York, when they conceived the design of forming themselves into a new society composed chiefly of men whose native tongue was the English, and whose intimate acquaintance with American institutions and customs would enable them to labor more efficiently. Their purpose was approved by Archbishop Hughes, after the pope had granted their release from their religious vows in the Redemptorist order, and issued in their favor the letter of commendation which is preliminary to canonical approbation. They formed themselves into a society organized on the same principle as the Oratorians and Sul-picians, a strict union of the houses and members under one superior general, held together by a voluntary agreement, with rules and laws enacted by the whole body in general chapter. This society is called "The Congregation of the Missionary Priests of St. Paul the Apostle." Their first convent and church were established in New York at the corner of 59th street and 9th avenue.

Their missions and retreats were attended with such success that they have been called to labor in many states of the Union, including California. They have published several volumes of sermons and discourses delivered by the members. Some works on theological subjects have been also published by Fathers Hecker, Stone, and Hew-it; and they have founded and edit " The Catholic World," the most important Roman Catholic periodical of America. In 1875 they numbered 15 priests.