Saint Francis Xavier (Diocese of Harrisburg)
| Saint Francis Xavier | |
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| Website: | https://www.stfxcc.org/ |
| Email: |
sthresher@sfxcs-pa.org |
Saint Francis Xavier is in Pennsylvania (United States) and is part of the Diocese of Harrisburg.
It is dedicated to Saint Francis Xavier.
Location
It is located at 25 W High St, Gettysburg, PA 17325.
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| This map created from a Cargo query () |
[[Category:Diocese of Harrisburg]]
History
Saint Francis Xavier Parish in Gettysburg, Pennsylvania, was established in 1831, making it one of the oldest Catholic parishes in the Diocese of Harrisburg. It was founded to serve the Catholic community in Gettysburg, which included many Irish immigrants who came to work on the Pennsylvania Railroad and in local industries. The parish is named after Saint Francis Xavier, one of the first Jesuit missionaries, reflecting the early Jesuit influence in the area.[1]
The original church was built on South Washington Street, but due to growth, the current church was constructed in 1853 at 25 West High Street. This church served as a field hospital during the Battle of Gettysburg in 1863, where both Union and Confederate soldiers were treated, marking a poignant chapter in its history. The parish has maintained historical ties to this event, with stained glass windows depicting scenes from the battle and nurses caring for the wounded.[2]
Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School, associated with the parish, was established to provide Catholic education to the children of Gettysburg. The school aims to cultivate faith, academic excellence, and community service, reflecting the parish's mission of holistic education in the Catholic tradition.[3]
The parish has undergone several expansions and renovations over the years to accommodate its growing congregation and to preserve its historical structures. It offers multiple Masses weekly, including bilingual services, reflecting the diversity of its parishioners. Saint Francis Xavier is known for its active parish life, with numerous ministries, including youth groups, service projects, and cultural events like the annual Festival of Saint Francis Xavier.[4]
The parish also supports community outreach, focusing on social justice, education, and support for the less fortunate, embodying the missionary spirit of its patron saint. Saint Francis Xavier's commitment to both its historical legacy and contemporary community needs makes it a vital part of Gettysburg's religious and social fabric.[5]
Related parishes
- Immaculate Conception, New Oxford, PA
- Saint Joseph the Worker, Bonneauville, PA
References
- ↑ "Saint Francis Xavier - Gettysburg". https://www.hbgdiocese.org/parishes/saint-francis-xavier-gettysburg/.
- ↑ "History - Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church". https://www.stfxcc.org/history.
- ↑ "Saint Francis Xavier Catholic School". https://www.sfxcs-pa.org/.
- ↑ "Ministries - Saint Francis Xavier Catholic Church". https://www.stfxcc.org/ministries.
- ↑ "Saint Francis Xavier". https://discovermass.com/church/saint-francis-xavier-gettysburg-pa.