Breathing in the salty San Diego air, have you noticed the unassuming yet welcoming facade of Saint Francis Universal Catholic Church? This isn’t just another church. It’s a haven for those seeking a faith that embraces intellectual liberty and individual conscience.
Saint Francis Universal Catholic Church extends a warm embrace to all. It welcomes those who may have felt marginalized or excluded elsewhere. Imagine families who were once denied sacraments finding open arms here. The church doesn’t impose restrictions based on marital status or other personal circumstances.
Here at Saint Francis Universal Catholic Church, the clergy opens its doors to those who have been marginalized by other churches. People who felt like second-class citizens find solace here. The church welcomes diverse people regardless of race, color, national origin, ancestry, gender, gender identity or sexual orientation. Even marital status, economic status, age, disability, theological viewpoint, familial status, or issues of individual conscience don’t matter here. When other churches have said no to God’s children, Saint Francis says yes.
This is a community that values love and faith. It offers all Catholic Sacraments. It combines them with intellectual liberty and respect for individual conscience. If being Catholic is important to you but you want less guilt and fewer restrictions Saint Francis Universal Catholic Church is for you.
The story of Saint Francis Universal Catholic Church is rooted in the Liberal Catholic movement. This movement emerged from the reorganization of the Old Catholic movement in Great Britain. It happened between 1917 and 1918. This came about because of disagreements with the doctrine of Papal Infallibility.
“Liberal” here doesn’t mean compromising faith. It means “suitable for free man.” It suggests the freedom to think for oneself. It means not being told what to think.
At Saint Francis Universal Catholic Church, the focus lies on common worship. It is not about common belief. Everyone is welcome to receive the Body and Blood of Christ. They are welcome just as they are.
Saint Francis offers open communion. All members of the Christian Fellowship can receive Communion at its altars. Children over seven who are baptized and confirmed are welcome. Adults approaching the altar need only do so with reverence, sincerity, and respect.
The church embraces traditional sacraments including Baptism, Confirmation, Holy Eucharist and Absolution. It also recognizes Holy Unction, Holy Matrimony, and Holy Orders. Through these sacraments, they continue a precious heritage passed down from Christ.
The teachings of Saint Francis Universal Catholic Church emphasize freedom of thought. Members are encouraged to exercise intellectual discernment. They teach the doctrine of the Holy Trinity. They believe in God’s unwavering love. They recognize Jesus as the Christ. They acknowledge His incarnation, crucifixion, resurrection, and ascension.
Saint Francis Universal Catholic Church sees itself as part of a larger movement. It seeks to balance worship, spiritual devotion, mystical understanding, modern philosophical thought, and current scientific advances. The church is located at 741 Cerro Gordo Ave in San Diego. It is a testament to faith. It is a place where tradition meets progress. It’s a reminder that faith can be both deeply rooted and ever-evolving.