St. Stephens Roman Catholic Church

Gazing up at St. Stephens Roman Catholic Church, one might sense the echoes of its vibrant past. St. Stephens Roman Catholic Church has been a cornerstone of the community since its inception in 1950. Archbishop John J. Mitty appointed the first pastor, Father Richard W. Power. The very first mass was held in the basement of a temporary rectory at 475 Eucalyptus Drive. Only fourteen parishioners received communion at that inaugural service. However, subsequent Sundays saw standing-room only crowds, eager to partake in the burgeoning spiritual life of St. Stephens. The need for a school became immediately apparent. Helen Tinny, a matriarch of one of the founding families, counted 192 school-aged children in the initial parish census. The church’s growth was rapid. In 1953, a new church building opened at 473 Eucalyptus Drive on Easter Sunday. Just a few years later, in 1957, a convent was built on the school grounds. St. Stephens continued to flourish. The growing congregation necessitated an even larger church, dedicated in 1964 at 601 Eucalyptus Drive by Archbishop Joseph T. McGucken. The former church building was then repurposed and became Donworth Hall. The legacy of St. Stephens extended beyond its physical walls. Father O’Reilly, a prominent figure at St. Stephens, noted that no matter where he went in San Francisco, he encountered members of the St. Stephens community. This speaks to the church’s active involvement in service and outreach. Over the years, St. Stephens Roman Catholic Church has seen a succession of dedicated pastors, each contributing to the church’s rich history. From Father Power to Father David A. Schunk, appointed in 2024, the leadership has guided St. Stephens through decades of growth and change. The church has adapted to the needs of its community. It opened a preschool in 2016 and continues to offer a range of programs for spiritual growth. St. Stephens Roman Catholic Church stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith and community. It continues to be a beacon of hope and a place of connection for generations of parishioners.