Archbishop Jose Gomez celebrates St. James 125th anniversary Mass
Los Angeles Archbishop José Gomez, Redondo Beach Mayor Bill Brand and St. James Monsignor Michael Meyers following a Mass commemorating St. James 125th anniversary. Photo
Archbishop Jose Gomez with folkloric dancers from San Miguel Church.
Mayor Bill Brand presents Monsignor Michael Meyers with a city plaque honoring St. James’ 125th anniversary.Photo
Los Angeles County Archbishop Jose Gomez celebrated Mass for over 700 St. James parishioners Saturday morning. The occasion was St. James’s 125th anniversary. The church was founded in 1892, the same year the City of Redondo Beach was incorporated.
During his sermon, Archbishop Gomez said, “The key to happiness, is to try to have Jesus present in your lives each day. It’s challenging but possible.”
Following the Mass, a reception was held in the Parish Center with mariachis and Folklorico Dancers from San Miguel Church. A Pop-Up Museum showcased artifacts, artwork, and other treasures from St. James history.
Redondo Beach Mayor Bill Brand called St. James “the spiritual center and beacon of Redondo Beach,” while presenting Monsignor Michael Meyers with a commemorative plaque.
“St. James mission is to do more than save souls,” Monsignor Meyers said. “It’s to follow in Jesus’ footsteps and be of service to the neediest and most vulnerable members of our community.” He added, “You never know. It could be you, a brother, husband, an aunt, a friend, or your child who may need a caring hand and loving heart.”
St. James began with 70 parishioners celebrating Mass at the home of Susanna Dominguez, who subsequently gave the parish land to build the church at what is now Pacific Coast Highway and Vincent Street. St. James now has over 10,000 parishioners participating in youth ministries, homeless housing, and feeding and bring the Holy Sacrament to homebound, hospital patients and prisoners.
To learn more about St. James, visit SaintJames.Church.