OUR HISTORY
In the heart of Pismo Beach, a popular summer destination in San Luis Obispo County, stands St. Paul the Apostle Church, a beacon of faith and community spirit. Since its establishment in September 1929, the church has witnessed the growth and evolution of its congregation, adapting and expanding to meet the spiritual needs of its members.
The journey of St. Paul the Apostle Church began when the Most Rev. Bishop MacGinley of the Monterey-Fresno Diocese recognized the need for a dedicated parish in Pismo Beach. Until then, the Catholic community was part of the Old Mission Parish of San Luis Obispo, with priests from the neighboring city of Arroyo Grande catering to their spiritual needs. In response to the bishop's call, the Conventual Franciscan Order took on the mission of organizing the new parish.
The early days were marked by sacrifice and determination. Father Mathias, the parish's first resident pastor, alongside his brothers, nephews, and the burgeoning congregation, embarked on the ambitious project of constructing a church and parish house on land generously donated by Mr. and Mrs. D. McNamara. Despite financial constraints, their relentless effort bore fruit as they managed to erect the initial structures and furnish them with essentials, including pews, altars, and communion rails.
The dedication of the new church, under the patronage of St. Paul the Apostle, on March 9, 1930, was a momentous occasion. A Solemn High Mass celebrated by Father Mathias, with the participation of Bishop MacGinley, marked the culmination of their hard work. This event laid the foundation for a thriving parish community that would continue to grow and evolve over the years.
Successive pastors, each bringing their unique talents and vision, have shepherded the parish through decades of change. The physical plant of St. Paul's has expanded, making it more convenient and suitable for the growing congregation. Notably, the tenure of Father Gregory Kareta (1971-78) saw a marked increase in community engagement, with a focus on meeting the needs of the elderly and the shut-ins.
The parish's commitment to its members and the broader community is evident in its comprehensive records, which show 836 baptisms, 200 marriages, and 355 deaths over its 50-year history, reflecting the vibrant life of the parish.
On October 7, 1979, St. Paul the Apostle Church celebrated its Golden Jubilee, under the guidance of its pastor, Father Peter Parchem (appointed in 1978), a testament to its enduring legacy and the blessings it has received. A Mass of Thanksgiving, followed by a Jubilee Dinner, brought together current and former parishioners in a joyful commemoration of their shared history and faith.
Today in 2024, the parish is shepherded by Fr. James Phan, OFM Conv., and St. Paul's continues to be a place of worship, community, and spiritual growth. The church's journey, from its humble beginnings to its current status as a cornerstone of the Pismo Beach community, is a story of faith, resilience, and the enduring power of community.
