Saint Columba Catholic Church

Did you ever hear about a church named after a saint but initially intended for another? Saint Columba Catholic Church in San Diego has such a story. This Serra Mesa landmark, a beacon of faith for over 50 years, wasn’t always Saint Columba. It started as St. Edward’s. The land itself whispers tales from California’s early days. Saint Columba Catholic Church sits on land once granted to Mission San Diego de Alcala by the King of Spain. Imagine, in 1955, Father Edward Johnson celebrated the first masses in his apartment and later in an aircraft hangar. Tragically, he died in a car accident shortly after his appointment. Father Alfred Geimer briefly stepped in, followed by Father Patrick O’Neill in September 1955. Construction began in 1957, with the first mass held in the church hall that December. The church itself opened its doors for mass in October 1958, officially dedicated by Bishop Richard H. Ackermann in December of the same year. The school and convent, vital additions to Saint Columba Catholic Church, followed in 1964. Vatican II inspired renovations to the sanctuary in 1966. Later, in 1991, a daily mass chapel and Blessed Sacrament Chapel were added. Saint Columba Catholic Church continued to evolve under the leadership of Msgr. John Dickey, Msgr. Patrick Mullarkey, Father Mario Elias, Father Mel Monreal, and Father Ed McNulty. Today, Saint Columba Catholic Church continues to serve its community. The church offers masses in both English and Korean, reflecting the vibrant diversity of San Diego. It stands as a testament to its rich history, a place where the past and present intertwine in faith.