St. Francis de Paula

St. Francis de Paula Est. 1867 | San Diego, TX 78384
A vibrant Catholic parish sharing the Good News of Jesus Christ through worship, faith, and service.
📍 401 S. St. Today, St.

Victoria St, San Diego, TX, 78384 Francis de Paula Parish is one of the oldest parishes in South Texas. Although San Diego was settled in the 1840s, it was not until the population began to grow that Father Claude Jaillet built the first chapel in 1867. Father Jaillet first arrived in New York City before traveling to Galveston in 1866, where he was appointed to serve the San Diego community. Spea

king only French, he journeyed to his new mission on a borrowed horse and saddle, carrying with him a Spanish–French dictionary, a borrowed missal, and a chalice. Through determination and faith, he raised $700 to construct the first church in 1867. Spending much of his ministry traveling by horseback, he became known as the “Saddlebag Priest of the Nueces.” By 1875, a larger church was built to serve the growing parish. In 1884, Father Jaillet was called to Corpus Christi. Father Bard, also from France, was sent to San Diego and continued serving the parish and its surrounding missions. With dedication and perseverance, Father Bard raised the funds to construct the present-day church in 1908, which was dedicated in 1909 by Monsignor Jaillet. The church’s magnificent interior, recently restored, reflects the rich Hispanic heritage of South Texas. Francis de Paula remains the heart of San Diego — a spiritual home and gathering place in times of both joy and sorrow.

08/26/2026
08/20/2026
Coming Sunday Reflection 🙏As we prepare for the coming Sunday, we are reminded to keep our eyes on Jesus, especially dur...
08/07/2026

Coming Sunday Reflection 🙏

As we prepare for the coming Sunday, we are reminded to keep our eyes on Jesus, especially during the storms of life.

In the Gospel, the disciples are frightened by the wind and waves, but Jesus comes to them saying, “Take courage. It is I. Do not be afraid.” Peter is able to walk on the water while his eyes are fixed on Jesus, but when he focuses on the storm, fear takes over and he begins to sink.

The first reading also reminds us that God does not always come to us through something loud or dramatic. Elijah discovers God in a gentle whisper. God continues to speak to us through prayer, Scripture, the Eucharist, and the quiet moments of our lives.

No matter what worries, struggles, or uncertainties we may face, we are never alone. As we prepare our hearts for Sunday, let us keep our eyes on Jesus, listen for His voice, and trust Him to lead us through every storm.

“Take courage. It is I. Do not be afraid.” ✝️

May we all have a blessed and faith-filled Sunday. 🙏

Altar servers recognition this past Sunday. Thank you!
06/02/2026

Altar servers recognition this past Sunday. Thank you!

Address

401 S. Victoria Street
San Diego, TX
78384

Opening Hours

Tuesday 9am - 1pm
2pm - 5pm
Wednesday 9am - 1pm
2pm - 5pm
Thursday 9am - 1pm
2pm - 5pm
Friday 9am - 1pm
2pm - 5pm

Website

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