St. Francis completes renovations

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A new ambo and altar were installed at St. Francis de Paula in San Diego. 
Photos by Father James Farfaglia

When Father James Farfaglia arrived for his assignment at St. Francis de Paula in San Diego in July 2021, he found much of the 110-year-old historic structure needing repairs. Three years later, under Father Farfaglia’s leadership, the parish is not just celebrating a renewal but a remarkable transformation of its much-beloved church, a testament to the dedication and hard work of the entire parish community, whose invaluable contributions have been the backbone of this restoration project.

On Friday, May 31, 2024, San Diego High School Coach Bo Ochoa and ten high school football players installed the new altar and ambo (pulpit), marking a significant milestone in the restoration of St. Francis de Paula. These new additions have enhanced the church's aesthetic and spiritual significance, bringing fresh energy to the parish. 

After Bishop Michael Mulvey approved a renovation plan, the improvements began in March 2022. First came the restoration of the stained glass windows, followed by refurbishment of the sanctuary and statues, new carpet, painting the inside of the church, and installing new lighting.

Father Farfaglia expressed his deep gratitude to the Wyatt Ranches Foundation for their significant contribution to the St. Francis de Paula Restoration Project. He acknowledged the invaluable assistance of former Duval County Judge E. B. Garcia, Sheriff Romeo Flores, and San Diego Mayor Araseli “Sally” Lichtenberger in securing this funding. He thanked the other generous donors, recognizing their valued role in the success of the project.

The old ambo has been moved to the parish hall, where it will be used as a podium for special events. The old altar will also be kept for possible future use.

High school students and adult supervisors helped install a new altar at St. Francis de Paula in San Diego. 

See a related story here.

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