Perhaps you’ve heard the echoes of gospel music floating from this very spot? This is Saint Therese Church. It is more than just a building. It’s a vibrant testament to faith, diversity, and the enduring spirit of Seattle’s Madrona neighborhood.
Saint Therese Parish was founded in 1926. It quickly became a cornerstone of the community. For decades, Saint Therese has been shaped by its commitment to gospel music. Social justice is a key element here. Also Vatican II council innovations have been impactful.
Imagine this place in the early 1960s. It was a large stable parish with about 700 families. However dramatic change came in the mid-1960s. The early 70s were a time of racial and political tension. Some racial disturbances created a flight from the neighborhood and Saint Therese. Church records show that the parish population fell by half during this time.
But Saint Therese Church didn’t disappear. In the mid-1970s a measure of stability returned. Father Marlin Connole served as pastor for 12 years. In the late 80s Archbishop Raymond Hunthausen appointed Pastoral Life Director Patty Repikoff. She provided leadership and pastoral care. Jesuit priests from nearby Seattle University celebrated Eucharist.
The parish supported a major renovation of the church in 1997-98. Father Paul Magnano was appointed pastor in 1998. Under his leadership, the parish added staff. A fourth weekend Mass met the needs of more than 1000 parish households.
Father Jim Harbaugh served as Priest Administrator/Pastor from 2003 to 2007. Father Stephen Okumu followed as Priest Administrator from 2007 to 2012. Deacon Greg McNabb was appointed to provide administrative leadership. Father Victor Olvida assisted as Parochial Vicar. In 2014, Father Maurice Mamba was appointed. Deacon McNabb supported him as Pastoral Associate. In 2021, Father Woody McCallister became Pastor of St. Therese and Immaculate Conception parishes.
In 2024, the Archdiocese of Seattle initiated the Partners in the Gospel realignment. St. Therese and St. Joseph Parishes were placed under the same pastoral leadership. Currently, Fr. Mike Bayard and Fr. Phil Boroughs are the parish priests. Deacon Steve Wodzanowski serves as overall Pastoral Coordinator.
Today, Saint Therese stands as a welcoming and diverse Catholic faith community. It invites everyone to know, love, and serve God. Enthusiastic parishioner involvement thrives here. There is a strong commitment to social justice. Saint Therese Catholic Academy reflects racial, ethnic, socio-economic and religious diversity.
Saint Therese Catholic Academy flourishes under Principal Malcolm Nelson. It is arguably the most racially diverse school in the Archdiocese. Embracing diversity is a cornerstone of their mission. Students and staff represent a variety of cultures, faith traditions, and family backgrounds.
The Social Justice Commission organizes the building of a tiny house. They also host anti-racism workshops. Saint Therese is more than just a church. It is a living breathing testament to community. It is a place where faith meets action.