Atonement. What a powerful word. It speaks of reconciliation and making amends. This brings us to the Parish of the Atonement. It is a unique Catholic church. The Parish of the Atonement began in 1983. Archbishop Patrick Flores gave his permission for its founding. The parish started with a small group of converts. They came from the Episcopal Church.
In 1994, the Parish of the Atonement added a school. It is called The Atonement Academy. The school grew quickly. It now serves students from PreK3 through Grade 12. Over 400 students attend.
To accommodate its growth, the Parish of the Atonement expanded. In 2006, they added a new church section. A new school addition was also created. The parish also has a majestic complex. It sits across from the school and church. When completed, it will include a gym. It will also have a fine arts center. Meeting rooms will serve the community. The Upper School currently occupies part of the building.
In 2017, Pope Francis made a significant decree. The Parish of the Atonement was incorporated. It joined the Ordinariate of the Chair of Saint Peter. This diocese is based in Houston TX. It is a non-geographical Catholic diocese. Bishop Steven J. Lopes leads it. About 40 other North American parishes belong to it.
Archbishop Patrick F. Flores signed a Decree of Erection. It established the Parish of the Atonement. The decree took effect on August 15, 1983. The title Our Lady of The Atonement has interesting roots. It originated in the Episcopal Church in the 19th century. The Graymoor Friars and Sisters of The Atonement brought it into the Catholic Church in 1909.
The Parish of the Atonement was founded as a Personal Parish. This was under the terms of the Pastoral Provision. Blessed Pope John Paul II promulgated this provision. The parish was specifically established. It was for Anglican Common Identity usage. It is the first parish ever established for this purpose.
Initially, the Parish of the Atonement had a small membership. It consisted of 18 former Anglicans or Episcopalians. This number included minor children. The parish’s only property was a small house. It was on Moana Drive in San Antonio. This house served as the rectory for the pastor. It also functioned as the parish office. Masses and other services took place. They were held at the Church of San Francesco di Paola.
The Parish of the Atonement continued to grow. It attracted converts from various backgrounds. These included Anglicanism, other Protestant denominations, and those with no religious background.
From its beginning, the Parish of the Atonement has been active. Members have taken part in pro-life work. They evangelize non-Catholics and inactive Catholics. They also care for those in need. These efforts integrated the parish. It took its place within the archdiocese. More people were drawn. They liked the combination of active ministries. They also enjoyed the unique liturgical style. Scriptural preaching and excellent music were appealing.
From 1983 to 1987, the parish lacked a permanent location. The house on Moana Drive served as rectory and office. Religious education took place in rented facilities. Activities moved to Mount Sacred Heart Convent Chapel. This location was more convenient for parishioners.
In 1985, a decision was made. The Parish of the Atonement sought property. They wanted to build suitable facilities. A small lot of six and a half acres became available. It was purchased from the archdiocese. Construction began in 1986. The altar was dedicated. The church was blessed on August 15, 1987.
The Parish of the Atonement stands as a testament. It shows the power of reconciliation. It exemplifies a vibrant faith community.