The article examines the Catholic answer to modern challenges such as industrialization, urban sprawl and the accelerated growth of the working class based on the case study of Krompachy workers revolt in 1921. From this point the study analyses the development and limits of Social Catholicism on the former territory of Austro-Hungarian monarchy at the end of 19th and beginning of 20th century. The Social Catholicism, which is seen primarily as a collective social practice present in society in various forms, offers the possibilities to better understanding of multi-layered relationship between Catholic Church and modern society. The study investigates the adaptation process of Social Catholic movement and creation of the network of social catholic associations and trade unions. Based on Krompachy's case as well as on the Social Catholic activities among workers. Text draws attention to possible limits and weaknesses of the secularization approach.