Parish History

St. Francis Parish, the second Catholic parish in the City of Rochester, was established on August 22, 1937. The first Mass was celebrated in the current church on November 30, 1941—one week before the attack on Pearl Harbor brought the United States into World War II. The church’s distinctive stained glass windows were installed in 1949. The large window at the west end of the church was a gift of the St. Mary’s Rosary Society.

St. Francis of Assisi School opened in 1952. The school campus has been expanded and beautified through many projects over the years. The convent, today known as the Parish Center, opened in 1958. The rectory, which now serves as the pastor’s residence, opened in 1952. The Gathering Space of the church was dedicated in 2001.

Celebration of the Eucharist, along with multiple opportunities for fellowship and service—at the local, regional, national and international levels—characterize the faith family of St. Francis of Assisi Parish.

You are cordially welcome to visit and join our faith community!

Pastors

Throughout its history, St. Francis Parish has been blessed to have pastors who are both servants and leaders:

Father Francis A. McCarthy 1937-1946

Msgr. Raymond J. Jansen 1946-1967

Father Francis P. Kunz 1967-1971

Father Thomas P. Adamson 1971-1975

Father James D. Habiger 1975-1980

Father Harry P. Jewison 1980-1985

Father Robert G. Meyer 1985-1993

Father Donald J. Lovas 1993-1999

Father Timothy T. Reker 1999-2011

Father Mark C. McNea 2011 - Present