Didn’t Georgetown get lucky? The story of Saint George Church begins in a unique place. This parish stands in what was once Georgetown. It was an incorporated town of its own. Georgetown got its name from Dr. George Horton. It became part of Seattle in 1909.
Saint George Church has deep roots in this community. In 1903, Catholics in Georgetown started organizing the parish. Rev. Joseph F. McGrath led the effort. Bishop O’Dea of Seattle approved the site. It was at the corner of Corson and Swift Avenue. A small frame church was built.
As the parish grew, the church became too small. It was enlarged, doubling its capacity. The first permanent pastor was Rev. William Palmer. He was appointed in 1904. Rev. James O’Brien succeeded him in 1905. In 1916, Rev. M.P. O’Dwyer became pastor.
In 1917, the Franciscan Province of Santa Barbara took charge. They assigned their own priests and brothers. Saint George Church welcomed a diverse congregation. Austrians, Belgians, French, Irish, Italians, Germans, Poles, and Spaniards were among its members.
By 1950, the parish needed a new building. Mr. and Mrs. Glasford generously provided property. Construction began in May 1953. It was completed in June 1954.
Saint George Church continued to evolve. In 1969, Fr. Loren Kerkof founded the Georgetown Service Center. In 1980, the Korean Catholic community was invited to worship at Saint George by Fr. Louis Ladenburger. The Korean community initially rented space. A shared administration eventually emerged. The Korean pastor even lived in the parish center. The Korean community grew and eventually needed more space. They purchased land for a new complex. It was named Peace of Christ Korean Center. It was located in north Seattle.
In 1987, the Franciscan Friars ended their long service. A decline in vocations forced the change. The Franciscans focused on their California ministry. Archbishop Hunthausen assigned Fr. Jeffrey Sarkies as pastor. He was under the direction of the Archdiocese of Seattle.
Saint George Church has a rich history. Parishioners have made many sacrifices. The church has been enriched by diverse cultures. People came from Europe and the Pacific Rim. This diversity has been a great strength.
Today, Saint George Church continues to thrive. It celebrates its history and looks forward to the future. The community unites in faith. The annual Day of Service embodies the spirit of action. Volunteers serve at nonprofits throughout Seattle. Moms gather to share faith and explore the concept of Sabbath.
Saint George Church invites all to join in worship. The parish offers various services and events. These include Lenten retreats and faith-sharing groups. The church examines different aspects of Mass, and seeks a deeper understanding of worship.