photo

Our History

Our parish, Blessed Junipero Serra, commonly known as Padre Serra, was named after Father Junipero Serra. Father Serra, a Franciscan Friar from the Spanish island of Majorca, brought to our shores his motto which became our Parish Motto: Siempre Adelante, which means “Always Forward.” Father Serra established 21 missions along the seven hundred miles of the El Camino Real, from San Diego to Sonoma; including San Buenaventura mission fifteen miles to our north.

Padre Serra Parish was established by His Eminence Cardinal Roger Mahony on May 1, 1988, and appointed Father Liam Kidney Pastor. Our liturgies initially were celebrated in St. James Chapel of St. John’s Seminary College next door to our current church. Liturgies continued there until July 1, 1995 when our beautiful church was dedicated. Father Jarlath Dolan was appointed Pastor on February 1, 2000.

Our parish community has grown from its original 800 families to 2,800 families. Currently we have over 60 active ministries. We have outgrown our existing facilities. Once completed, our new Parish Center will afford us ample room to gather in ministry and fellowship, to serve those in need and grow in our faith.