Saint Jude Shrine of the West

Beneath the shadow of Saint Jude Shrine of the West, a story unfolds. A story of faith, community, and a touch of Hollywood glamour. Saint Jude Shrine of the West, a beacon on Boston Avenue, wasn’t always the grand structure you see today. It began in the 1940s, in a humble Quonset hut, moved to the site by the very families who dreamed of this spiritual haven. Father Dicristina, the beloved founding priest, rallied the community, holding the first mass within those repurposed military walls. He nurtured their spiritual growth, but he also brought a touch of unexpected sparkle to the neighborhood. He’d invite Hollywood stars, like Lash Larue and Hopalong Cassidy, to the annual bazaar. Imagine the excitement in the air as these silver screen legends graced the grounds of Saint Jude Shrine of the West. The families who built Saint Jude Shrine of the West had faced hardship, some having lost sons in World War II. Names like Espinoza, Diaz, and Esparza, alongside Italian, Filipino, and Anglo families, poured their hearts and resources into creating this sacred space. They envisioned a place where future generations could find solace and spiritual nourishment. The original Quonset hut church later transformed into a community hall. In the 1950s, it pulsed with the rhythm of teenage dances. Rosie and the Originals graced the stage with their hit “Angel Baby”. The Velvetones, with their saxophonist Benny Holman, filled the hall with music. Holman would later become the musical director for the renowned Frankie Laine and a San Diego icon, leading the San Diego Chargers Band. The spirit of community and faith thrived within these walls. However, shadowed corners often hold secrets. Father Gregory Sheridan, pastor from 1954 to 1970, held a dual role. He was the disciplinarian at St. Jude’s school, a figure of authority. Yet, under the cover of night, a different Sheridan emerged. He frequented the local bars, the 38th Club, the Ten-Twenty Club, and Woodie’s Liquor Store, often accompanied by someone in need of “attention.” This secret remained hidden, known only to the children who patrolled the neighborhood streets. Despite its hidden struggles, Saint Jude Shrine of the West remains a cornerstone of the community. Its light still shines brightly, offering solace and spiritual guidance to all who enter its doors. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and the resilience of the human spirit.