Saint Augustine Church

Was Fred’s Produce the place to be for Saturday evening Mass? Indeed, it was! Before Saint Augustine Church graced this spot, parishioners gathered in this unlikely setting, a commercial store next to the old Walgreens in Westborough Square. Imagine, the aroma of fruits and vegetables mingling with the sanctity of prayer. This humble beginning speaks volumes about the spirit of Saint Augustine Church, a testament to the dedication of its founders. Saint Augustine Parish officially emerged in December 1970, drawing together Catholics from Daly City, South San Francisco, San Bruno, and Pacifica. As the congregation swelled, Mass migrated from Fred’s Produce to the gymnasium of Westborough Junior High, now Westborough Middle School. Seven weekend Masses filled the schedule, a sign of a burgeoning community. The dream of a dedicated church building fueled the Parish Building Program, a collaborative effort spearheaded by Father Paul E. Duggan and Sherman Mattisoa. Funding this dream required a monumental effort. Parishioners pledged their support, committing to contributions over three years. A dedicated team, from Division Chairmen to Team Members, worked tirelessly to secure these pledges. Before the age of cell phones and the internet, these dedicated individuals walked door-to-door, spreading the word and gathering support for Saint Augustine Church. Their efforts culminated in the groundbreaking ceremony on February 15, 1975. Less than a year later, on December 14, 1975, Saint Augustine Church was officially dedicated. Archbishop Joseph T. McGucken led the celebration. The combined choirs of Saint Augustine, 175 voices strong, filled the new space with music. Even without a parish school, Saint Augustine Church prioritized religious education. Sister Josephine Leyne, D.M.J., guided a program that spanned from preschool to adult classes. Fast forward to 2017, and Saint Augustine Church underwent a significant renovation. The sanctuary was transformed, with a new tabernacle, altar, and ambo. Natural light flooded in through a raised ceiling, and the crucifix was repositioned and illuminated. The project, reaching $2.1 million, was a testament to the continued dedication of the parishioners. On August 26, 2017, Archbishop Salvatore Cordileone rededicated Saint Augustine Church, consecrating the new altar. This vibrant community continues to thrive, a testament to the faith and dedication of those who first gathered in a produce store, dreaming of a place to call their own.