Established in 1964 Holy Spirit Parish began with just 250 families. Imagine a small community bursting with faith and hope. They were largely from the Cathedral of Christ the King Parish. Father John McDonough guided this fledgling parish. He initially led them from his residence at the Cathedral. He later became Rector of the Cathedral. Father Joseph Ware then took over as Pastor of Holy Spirit.
The early days saw Mass celebrated in unconventional locations. First it was the Pace Academy cafeteria. Then it moved to Dykes High School now Sutton Middle School. Think of the makeshift altars the simple decorations the spirit of community shining through any lack of grandeur. This wasn’t a grand building. It was a testament to faith in action.
In 1965 the parish acquired its current land. This land was part of an old Fulton County stone quarry. A testament to transforming challenging beginnings. Two years later in 1967 an octagonal multi-purpose building was finished. It served as church education center and offices all in one. It served the growing community well for years.
The first rectory on the property was completed in 1971. Then came a period of expansion. Plans began for a separate church and education building. The church was completed in March 1977 seating 320 people. The education building followed in 1980. This phase was funded partly by the sale of the multi-purpose building. Thirteen acres of land were also sold.
The parish grew steadily. By 1987 it had 550 households. A long-range planning study anticipated 1500 households by 2005. The actual growth exceeded those estimates. The current church dedicated in July 1995 seats 808. Additional seating can be added for larger events. The Goizueta Education Center houses educational programs. The parish acquired more land expanding its property to over 33 acres. A new rectory was built in 1998. It was made from a 1960’s ranch-style home that the parish renovated.
In 2002 fourteen acres were sold to Holy Spirit Preparatory School. This allowed the construction of a high school fulfilling a long-held dream. In 2020 the Centro Católico del Espíritu Santo was moved to the main campus. This brought the Anglo and Latino communities together for events like Taste of Mexico and Heritage Night.
After 37 years Msgr. Dillon retired as Pastor in 2023. Fr. Luke Ballman became the new Pastor. Holy Spirit Parish stands today a testament to unwavering faith resilience and community growth. It’s a vibrant place of worship a community center a beacon of hope and a story of enduring transformation.