Beneath the California sun stands Saint John Fisher Catholic Church. It began its journey in May 1961. Initially, it was named St. Peter Alcantara. Soon after its founding, the name changed.
Why the shift? Let’s delve into a brief history. Saint John Fisher was an English bishop in the 16th century. He bravely opposed King Henry VIII’s claim over the Church. This defiance led to his martyrdom on June 22, 1535. As a symbol of the king’s wrath, his head was displayed on London Bridge. His feast day is June 22. Intriguingly, his name means “God is gracious.”
Around seven years after Fisher’s death, explorer Juan Rodriguez Cabrillo arrived. He sailed along the California coast. Landing in the Rancho Palos Verdes-San Pedro area, he named the bay San Pedro. This was on the feast day of St. Peter of Alexandria.
Fast forward 400 years. Rancho Palos Verdes grew. The need for a parish became clear. Cardinal James Francis McIntyre established St. Peter Alcantara Church. It honored the patron saint of San Pedro.
The first Mass occurred in 1961. It took place in the old Marymount College auditorium. Further research clarified which St. Peter was which. The parish then adopted a new name. Msgr. Thomas McCarthy, the founding pastor, favored Saint John Fisher.
Msgr. McCarthy’s vision led to rapid growth. Within two years, a new church and school opened. A carved wood statue of Saint John Fisher was enshrined. This happened at the 1963 dedication Mass.
Msgr. Eugene Gilb later oversaw extensive remodeling. Architect Daniel Young won an award for his design. Liturgical artist Isabel Piczek added stained glass windows. These depicted the Seven Sacraments and the Eucharistic Christ.
Currently, a new Saint John Fisher Church is under construction. It stands as a testament to the community’s dedication. It also honors its remarkable patron-martyr.
Today, Saint John Fisher offers various services. Mass times include Saturday evenings and multiple services on Sunday. Weekday Masses occur in the mornings and evenings. The church also provides Adoration and Confessions.
You can find Saint John Fisher on Crest Road. It sits at Crenshaw Boulevard in Rancho Palos Verdes. The church extends a warm welcome to all. Whether you’re a long-time parishioner or a first-time visitor, the community embraces you. The doors of Saint John Fisher Catholic Church are open.