Have you ever felt the weight of history beneath your feet? Here at All Saints Roman Catholic Church in Los Angeles you can. This isn’t just any church. This is a place where faith took root in a small hamlet called Birdstown. Imagine the quiet hills the Basque shepherds tending their flocks in the early 1900s. Few families lived there. People walked miles to attend Mass.
All Saints started as a mission. It was run by priests from the Sacred Heart Parish. It became its own parish in 1926. Bishop J J Cantwell saw the growing community. He made it official. The first Mass in the little church on Rosemead Avenue was celebrated on April 26 1926.
The current church building on Portola Avenue was a significant step. It was dedicated in 1931 by the same Bishop Cantwell. A rectory was added soon after. The year 1948 was monumental. The All Saints Catholic School opened its doors. 357 students filled six grades. This realized a twenty-year dream. The Sinsinawa Dominican Sisters taught the children. Their order dates back to 1847.
The parish continued to grow. A new convent was built in 1955 and a parish hall in 1962. In 1968 the Minim Fathers took over. They were the first of their order to lead an American parish. Father Gino Vanzillotta and Father Costantino Mandarino were the first. They were from the order founded by St Francis of Paola.
All Saints has seen many pastors since its founding. Each one has added to its rich legacy. Today All Saints remains a vibrant part of the El Sereno community. It’s a place where history faith and community intertwine. This is more than just a building. It is a testament to the enduring spirit of faith in Los Angeles. It continues to serve its community. It stands as a powerful symbol of hope and perseverance.