“Did you know that Saint Thomas More Catholic Church in Atlanta is more than just a parish?” It is a vibrant hub of faith and community. Established on April 13 1941 Saint Thomas More Catholic Church sits on the edge of Decatur. Decatur is older than Atlanta. It has become part of the larger city’s urban sprawl.
Saint Thomas More parish has Romanesque and Mediterranean buildings. The elementary school dominates the architecture. Initially diocesan priests managed the parish. The setting seemed grimly functional. The Sunday Eucharist offered little liturgy.
Later the Society of Jesus took over. The Jesuits have become a visible presence in Atlanta. They launched a Cristo Rey high school. Now two Jesuit priests form the heart of the ministry. The ministry includes male and female laypeople.
Significant architectural upgrades improved the facade. Arches lead into a large foyer. This foyer serves as a gathering place around a baptismal font. Frescoes representing classic icons adorn the walls. An adoration chapel stands to one side. A sign-up sheet invites volunteers for perpetual adoration. A hallway leads to restrooms and a family room. The foyer provides literature with Jesuit features. Brochures advertise the Ignatian House of Spirituality. Literature also promotes Cristo Rey High School.
The church has efficient air-conditioning. It easily handles the body heat of the congregation. The congregation is large and youthful. Many young married couples attend with children. The demographics include Caucasians African-Americans and Asians. Many children are infants and toddlers. Saint Thomas More is a parish flush with new life and energy.
Jesuits who serve the parish live in community at Saint Thomas More. Jesuits also serve Cristo Rey High School. They also serve the Ignatius House Retreat Center. The parish website is www.stmgaparish.org. You can also call 404-378-4588 for more information. Saint Thomas More Catholic Church is located at 636 West Ponce de Leon Avenue Decatur GA 30030.
Saint Thomas More Catholic Church is a welcoming beacon. It invites all to experience faith community and service.