St. Paul’s Story
St. Paul Catholic Church is the story of its people. Through its long history runs the loyalty and love of resolute people who form that great family which is and always has been St. Paul's. This unique spirit began in 1876 when Archbishop Joseph Alemany approved a request to purchase property on Church Street, which included the key lot at 29th and Church, as well as three additional lots facing Church Street. Father Lawrence Breslin was appointed the first Pastor, and construction of the church and residence began early in 1880; on April 29th, 1880, the cornerstone was laid. Originally, the church seated 750 and the total cost of construction was $18,000.00. But the Parish Community was growing, and the decision was taken to begin construction on a new church building. Designed by Frank T. Shea, the most prolific church architect of the time and responsible for St. James', St. Brigid's, and Old St. John's, Shea chose a modified English Gothic style for St. Paul’s. Construction on the new building began in 1897, took fourteen-years to complete, and was built on a pay as you go formula. Therefore, when the Church was finished in 1911, the Parish Community was debt-free! Since these early days of our history, St. Paul's has been the spiritual center of Catholic life in the Noe Valley. St. Paul's is a vibrant community, with extensive programs, community events, education, a commitment to the Gospel, an unshakable belief and trust in God, as well as a love of neighbor - all this characterize our Parish Community. We are indeed a City of God. To quote Red Spillane: "God visits other churches but lives at St. Paul's." We are grateful to Almighty God for His blessings.
