Ever wonder how a patch of farmland transformed into the vibrant St. Martha’s Catholic Church we see today?
St. Martha’s journey began in 1958. The Archdiocese of Los Angeles recognized a need. Population growth demanded a new parish.
Initially masses were held at St. Joseph’s Church in La Puente. Construction of St. Martha’s Church was yet to start. The Archdiocese authorized the construction in October 1958. It included a church and an eight-room school. The official opening took place on Palm Sunday April 10 1960.
Father John McNamara became the founding pastor of St. Martha Parish. He arrived from St. Joseph in Carpinteria. St. Martha’s had been a daughter parish of St. Joseph’s in La Puente.
In 1959 Father McNamara celebrated Christmas Mass in the school hall. The temporary church opened on Palm Sunday in 1960. Sisters of the Love of God opened the school with four grades. The religious education program involved more than 1500 children.
Father Juan Romero arrived as the second pastor in 1981. He brought liturgical reforms and artistic improvements. A fountain was installed in the patio. It provided a refreshing place for parishioners to gather. A tapestry of St. Martha was hung at the Azusa entrance.
Father William Leser served St. Martha for eleven years. He became Monsignor in 1991. Father Leser spearheaded the replacement of stained glass windows. He also added the baptismal fountain.
Father William Easterling was installed as the third pastor in 1996. Cardinal Roger Mahony re-dedicated the “new” church. Father Bill established a permanent Pastoral Council.
In 1999 the parish joined the East San Gabriel Valley Coalition. It housed homeless people for two weeks. The parish provided meals and overnight stays.
Father Mauricio Goloran III became pastor in 2010. He had been an associate pastor here for eight years. A new St. Martha’s image in stained glass replaced the tapestry.
St. Martha’s celebrated its 60th anniversary in 2018. Bishop David O’Connell presided over the Thanksgiving Mass. The altar was now facing the whole congregation.
Today St. Martha’s Catholic Church stands as a testament to faith service and community. It embraces its diverse congregation. It continues to evolve. It honors the legacy of St. Martha who served.