“Established as a Mission Church.” These words mark the humble beginnings of St. Bernadette Catholic Church. Today we stand before a testament to faith. It is a story of growth and community.
St. Bernadette Catholic Church started its journey on June 14 1944. This was just days after D-Day. Father Kennedy celebrated the first Mass on December 4th. It was held in a small white chapel. He moved it from Saint John the Evangelist grounds.
By 1946 St. Bernadette Catholic Church served over 250 families. The young mission undertook its first construction project. They built a school, a convent, and living quarters. The school opened in September 1947. Four sisters taught grades K-3. They were from the Third Order of St. Francis in Glen Riddle, Pennsylvania.
In 1948 the parish was canonically established. Father William Stricker became the first pastor of St. Bernadette Catholic Church. In the summer of 1948 Mass was celebrated in the school hall. Ground was broken for the church in 1957. The church grew in numbers and activities, including the school. The architects were Donald Johnson and Harold Bountin. They were long-time parishioners.
Archbishop Patrick O’Boyle dedicated the cornerstone on December 14 1958. Father Stricker celebrated the first solemn high Mass. The packed church held nearly 850 people. Sister Emma was named principal from 1959-1965. The school grew to 1100 students. There were 14 nuns and 3 lay teachers by September 1960.
Today St. Bernadette Catholic Church stands as a vibrant parish. It offers multiple Mass times throughout the week. On Sundays services are at 7:30 AM, 9:00 AM, and 11:00 AM. Confession times are on Saturdays from 3:30 PM to 4:30 PM. Eucharistic Adoration is every Friday from 4:00 PM to 8:00 PM. It is also on the last Sunday from 6:00 PM to 10:00 PM.
Rev. Msgr. K. Bartholomew Smith is the current pastor. The church is wheelchair accessible. St. Bernadette Catholic Church continues to serve its community. It is a beacon of faith. It stands tall on University Boulevard East.
As you leave St. Bernadette Catholic Church remember its history. It is a history of faith, community and growth. This church began as a small mission. Now it is a pillar of faith. It offers solace and community to all who enter.