“Ever wonder where faith took root in a farmland?” That’s the story of Saint Bernard’s Roman Catholic Church. It began humbly in 1922. Eight parishioners gathered in a private home. They were farmers seeking spiritual community. Father J. E. Fitzgerald celebrated their first mass. The community initially called themselves “Assumption”.
Six months later, the small parish purchased a house. It had two bedrooms at 538 Center Street. In 1923, Bishop John Cantwell established the parish officially. He named it in honor of Saint Bernard of Clairvaux. Saint Bernard lived in the 12th century. He founded a famous monastery as a Cistercian monk. This mirrored the simple beginnings of Saint Bernard’s Roman Catholic Church. The town itself was named by dairy farmers. They named it for the beloved bellefleur apple. It grew abundantly in their orchards.
The first parishioners were Latino, Portuguese and Dutch descendants. Father Eugene Villemure became the first pastor. In 1924, the first church building was completed. It cost $6,000. The Bank of Italy financed it. Within a year, the parish grew rapidly. It included 200 families from Bellflower and surrounding areas.
Saint Bernard Church became a mother church. It served many churches in the area. It had lively liturgies. Over the years, Saint Bernard Church saw many pastors. Each left their unique mark. Father Stephen Kiley was one of them. He later became a monsignor. Monsignor Maurice Dee served for only a year. However, he dedicated 48 years to the archdiocese.
By 1943, the parish needed more space. They purchased property on Palm Avenue. It is now Beach Street. Construction began on a temporary church, a convent and a school. Bishop Joseph T. McGucken dedicated the new buildings in 1947. The first Parish Festival was held that year.
In 1955, a new church was completed. Cardinal James McIntyre dedicated it. The church featured a 72-foot tower. It became a landmark visible from Freeway 91. The enthusiasm of the parishioners made it happen. In 1979, the church celebrated its 25th anniversary. Alterations included a new altar with a crucifix from Rome.
Father Philip McGrath oversaw significant construction. He built the rectory, church offices and the Parish Hall. He also added a new wing to the school. This included a library and computer lab.
In 2023 Saint Bernard Church celebrated its centennial. Archbishop Jose H. Gomez presided over the Centennial Mass. Despite a tropical storm, parishioners celebrated with food and entertainment. Father Toribio Gutierrez, the current pastor, continues to lead the community. He connects with them through prayer and various ministries. Saint Bernard’s Roman Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith, community and perseverance.