Perhaps it is the sense of community that draws people to Saint Stephen Catholic Church. Saint Stephen Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith and community. It is located in Riverview Florida. This church has a rich history and a vibrant present.
Originally a mission of Nativity Catholic Church, Saint Stephen started in 1987. The first Masses were held in a storefront. This was at 4430 Bell Shoals Road. The location is now occupied by Beef O’ Brady’s.
In the early days Saint Stephen had 1285 registered families. The church planned to build a larger sanctuary. It was to be built off Boyette Road. Priorities shifted. Saint Stephen first built a school on its 40-acre Boyette property. The church waited for increased membership and funding.
In 2010 Saint Stephen launched a fundraising campaign. It was called Building Our Future Together. Parishioners were asked to contribute. A Building Committee formed to guide the process. The church provided updates online. Families were encouraged to take ownership.
On the Feast of St. Stephen the church broke ground. This was for their dream sanctuary. The new building measured 30726 square feet. A 19183-square-foot Family Life Center was also planned. The entire project cost 12 million dollars. It finished in May 2016.
The church raised about 6 million dollars. This came from its 15000 parishioners. The remainder was borrowed. Rick Hughes led the building campaign. He found personal meaning in it. He stated that he wanted to help build something for future generations.
More than 100 ministries operate out of Saint Stephen’s new facilities. These include mom and dad groups. There is also marriage counseling and a food pantry. Small groups, children’s classes and fertility care are available. Events once held in tents now take place at the Life Center. The pastoral staff works under one roof.
In June 2017 Saint Stephen Catholic Church celebrated the grand opening of its new building. It is 30000 square feet and located off Boyette Road. The final service at the Bell Shoals Road location was held with a 5 p.m. Mass. Bishop Gregory Parkes dedicated the new property. He designated it as a sacred space. He then handed the keys to Father Bob Schneider.
The new church seats 1200 people. The previous location sat 850. About 3600 people attend Mass at Saint Stephen each week. The new church is located at 10118 St. Stephen Circle Riverview.
Saint Stephen continues to be a vibrant center of faith. It offers various programs and services. It is a welcoming community for all.