Saint Phillip Catholic Church

In the heart of Falls Church, Virginia, nestled amidst a bustling neighborhood, lies Saint Phillip Catholic Church. It’s an oasis of peace, a place where diverse cultures and languages converge. Saint Phillip Catholic Church isn’t just a building. It’s a vibrant tapestry woven from the threads of many nations. The church’s story begins in May 1962. Bishop John J. Russell purchased land in the Broyhill Park Subdivision. He appointed Reverend L. Longmire Speight as the first pastor. The land for Saint Phillip Catholic Church was carved from portions of three existing parishes: Saint James, Saint Michael, and Saint Anthony of Padua. The very first mass was held not within the church’s walls, but in the auditorium of Whittier School in September 1962. The new church building wouldn’t hold its first mass until November 10, 1963, with its official dedication a month later. The church complex expanded in the following years. A school opened in 1964, run by the Sisters of Saint Joseph. A rectory and convent were completed by 1967. The church has seen many pastors guide its flock. From Father Cilinski, who served for 16 years, to Father Ryan and Father Martin. Then came Father Loftus, Father Spychala, Father Walsh, and currently, Father Donahue. Saint Phillip Catholic Church also had a school, which merged with St. Anthony’s to form Corpus Christi School in 1989. The early childhood center remained at Saint Phillip. This partnership eventually dissolved. The school at Saint Phillip became the Saint Philip Early Childhood Center. Sadly, it closed in 2020. The church underwent a significant renovation in 2007. This transformed the original space, once shared with the school gymnasium, into a sanctuary of peace and reflection. The renovation brought a baptismal pool, stunning stained glass windows, and an altar of Holy Land marble. The baptismal pool, designed for full immersion, is a powerful symbol of rebirth and spiritual cleansing. The stained glass windows illuminate the church with vibrant depictions of Jesus’ parables and scenes from the life of Saint Philip. Saint Phillip Catholic Church stands as a testament to its diverse community. It is a living embodiment of the Apostle’s invitation to “come and see”.