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Official Parish History by K. Lockard - Diocese of St. Augustine
Summary of Information
- Summary of Historical Highlights
- Comprehensive Timeline of Major Events
Spanish Period I, 1565-1763
English Period, 1763-1783
Spanish Period II, 1783-1821
US Territorial Period, 1821-1845
Statehood, 1845-present
- Parish Membership Statistics, 1878-1923
- Chronological List of Priests
Visiting Priests, 1777-1868
Resident Priests, 1869-1953
Pastors, 1954-present
- Chronological List of Deacons
- Chronological List of Religious Women
- Other Historical Notes/Information
- Sources
- Summary of Historical Highlights
Amelia Island is an early location of settlement and Catholicity in North Florida.
French Huguenots settled on the peninsula in 1562, naming it “Île de Mai.” When the Spanish took over in 1565, the peninsula was renamed “Isla Santa María.” About forty years later, Mision Santa Mar
a de Sena was established, though it was short lived. The abandoned site hosted Christian Guale and Mocama natives fleeing English backed slave raids in 1680. Mision Santa Catalina de Santa Mar
a survived until English violence in 1702 pushed natives to the safe outskirts of St. Augustine.
By the Second Spanish Period (1783-1821), Catholics has migrated back to Amelia Island. A church census from the 1780’s shows 103 practicing Roman Catholic families and 20 people baptized in the Nassau River area by Rev. Thomas Hassett. The names of “original” pioneer families include: Ferreira; Kelley; Lassere; Leddy; Mularkey; Nolan; Powers; Villalonga; and Waas. When “Old Town” Fernandina was replotted by George J. F. Clarke in 1811, lots 5 and 7 on Block 2 were designated as “Church lots.” Occasionally, a priest from St. Augustine would visit the faithful. Historian Michael Gannon writes that the first mission church was built here in 1844.
The town of Fernandina relocated to higher ground around 1857 on the insistence of Senator and Railroad magnet David Yulee. The “New Town” location was more accessible for a railroad. After relocating, a small wooden church was constructed for Catholics. It was believed to have been on the current site of St. Michaels. The first church was sacked by occupational forces from the Union Army in 1862. Visiting priest, Fr. Henry Clavreul, was so angry about the theft of vestments and sacred vessels that he slipped through enemy lines and traveled to Savannah to give news of the desecration to Bishop Augustin Verot in person. The Bishop wrote a number of angry letters to military authorities. While we can find evidence that a sympathetic Brigadier commanded the local Colonel to search every one of his troops, we are unclear if any Church property was found or returned. It was the second resident priest, Rev. John Bertazzi, who built a 138 ft x 42 ft brick church on the northeast corner of Fourth and Broome streets. The church was dedicated under the patronage of St. Michael the Archangel, in remembrance of Franciscan Martyr Miguel de Añon, on February 8, 1874. The first resident priest, Rev. Charles Sartorio died within the year of his assignment and both he and Rev. Bertazzi are buried outside the current entrance to St. Michael’s church. In Augustin of 1924, a 2,300 lb. church bell was blessed by Rev. Bernard Weigl, OSB (of St. Leos Abbey, NC), replacing an old engine bell dating from 1750. The new bell was christened the “Raymond Bell” in memory of benefactor Mr. H.H. Raymond. St. Michael’s was formally erected as a parish on April 21, 1954 by Archbishop Joseph P. Hurley. The sanctuary was remodeled in 1990. Overcrowding required a new sanctuary expansion, which was built and dedicated by Bishop Felipe Estévez on August 1, 2015.
The first Fernandina church in “Old Town” was lost by Bishop Verot during the Civil War. In 1867, he recorded buying the lot back and giving orders for a “little chapel” to be built. Rev. Anthony F. J. Kilcoyne erects St. Peter Claver Chapel in “Old Town” for the “Colored contingent” of St. Michaels Parish in the late 1880’s. It is believed that relics of St. Peter Claver were installed in the high altar. This sanctuary was used but deteriorated over time. By 1895, it was described as “dilapidated” and “unfit.” In 1924 the congregation moved and a new brick church, constructed on a “more suitable lot” at North 3rd and Calhoun Street. The parish closed in the 20th century.
Education of Black Catholics was a concern of St. Augustine’s first bishop, Augustin Verot. No Catholic education opportunities were provided to Catholics of color before or during the Civil War. In 1866, the French Bishop traveled to his homeland and described the Black Catholic situation to a Congregation of Sisters of St. Joseph in Le Puy. The congregation endorsed establishment of a mission in Florida and sent 8 women to St. Augustine with the express purpose of educating persons of color. The Sisters were invited to St. Michaels, Fernandina in 1871 by Rev. John Bertazzi. Two women came from their convent in St. Augustine and lived and taught in a rented house near the church. Separate schools were established for both White children and children of color.
In 1882, the Sisters built a combination convent and school on the property of the newly constructed church in “New Town” Fernandina. St. Joseph’s Academy (a boarding and day school for white students) opened that same year. In 1884, board, tuition, washing, bed, and bedding were advertised at $40.50 per quarter. Music lessons with the use of an instrument were an additional $12. The school educated the children of Fernandina until 1971, when it closed. Ten years earlier, the Sisters of St. Joseph had withdrawn sponsorship and sold it to St. Michael’s Parish. In 1999, under the administration of Bishop John Snyder and Pastor Rev. Norman Edward Booth, the school was reopened as St. Michael’s Academy. A Middle School was added in 2005. During the time between its closure in 1971 and being reopened in 1999, St. Michaels School became the filming location for portions of The New Adventures of Pippi Long Stockings, a children’s movie directed by Ken Annakin (released in 1988).
Students of color did not get their own school building until around 1900. The previous year, St. Catharine Drexel and her Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament donated $500 to build a school for children of Color in
“Old Town.” Parish annual reports following 1900 alternately refer to this as “the Colored school” and “St. Peter Claver’s School for Colored Children.” In his 1910 report to the Bishop, Rev John O’Brien mentioned concern for Black Catholic education and requested a teacher. By the 1924 parish annual report, St. Peter Claver School was described as “successfully” educating 80 pupils. A new school building was constructed that year between 5th and 6th streets. The school continued to educate students of color until its closure in June of 1595. St. Michael’s sold the building in 1974.The story of Catholicism on Amelia Island reaches back to the beginning of Spanish Colonial Florida. Franciscan Missionaries evangelized the natives for a 20 year period in the late 17th century. The Catholic community was reinvigorated in the late 18th century by priests from St. Augustine. The Sisters of St. Joseph arrived on the Island in 1871, just before the new St. Michael’s church was built and became beloved of the Fernandina community. Their heroic efforts during the 1877 Yellow Fever epidemic and attention to education are part of the Sister’s lasting legacy. Senator David Yulee’s cross-state railroad brought an influx of Irish Catholics who settled on the Island. War also brought contingents of Catholics to Amelia Island. Confederate, and then Union soldiers were ministered to during the Civil War. The New York 69th and Michigan 8th encamped at Fernandina in 1889 during the Spanish-American War. Resident priest Rev. Maurice P. Foley celebrated a military mass to remember when the troops departed. Needs of the Black Catholic community were met in the mission and school of St. Peter Claver, with the support of the Sisters of St. Joseph and the Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament. And St. Michael’s Church continues to expand as population on Amelia Island continues to grow.
- Comprehensive Timeline of Major Events
KEY
Historical information, for Context
Historical information, Fernandina
Historical Information, Catholic Fernandina
Spanish Period I, 1565-1763
Catholic Jurisdiction: Diocese of Santiago de Cuba, 1565-1787
1562-1565
French Huguenots land on Amelia Island, claiming it for France as Île de Mai, and settle for a short time.
9/8/1565
Pedro Menéndez de Aviles lands near Hospital Creek and founds the settlement of St. Augustine, the oldest continually occupied city in the United States.
A mass is celebrated on the landing site. After mass, the Spanish and natives share a meal together.
At the time, Spanish Florida falls under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Santiago de Cuba from 1565 to 1787.
1565
Spanish defeat the French Huguenots and rename “Île de Mai” Isla Santa María.
1565-1763
First Spanish Period of Florida’s history.
c. 1602
First Catholic mission is established by Franciscans on Amelia Island call Mission Santa Mar
a de Sena. It is abandoned around the 1650s. (from CBSA-Tanner)
1683-1702
Mission Santa Catalina is relocated from the (Spanish defined) Guale Province to the (Spanish defined) Mocama Province on Isla Santa Mar
a. (from DHT-Tides: 349-422)
1702
Isla Santa María is renamed Amelia Island by Governor James Oglethorpe, in honor of the daughter of English King George II.
English Period, 1763-1783
Catholic Jurisdiction: Diocese of Santiago de Cuba, 1565-1787
1763-1783
English Period of Florida’s history begins with the signing of the First Treaty of Parish on February 10th.
11/1769
Captain William Fuller prepares a survey of Amelia Island for the Right Honorable John Earl of Egmont as part of Egmont’s 10,000-acre grant for an indigo plantation, courtesy of East Florida Governor James Grant. Fuller’s map is published on 26 Mary 1770 according to an Act of Parliament. Indigo becomes the English colony’s most important crop. The Amelia Island plantation continues operation after Egmont’s death under Stephen Egan until it is destroyed during the American Revolution (1775-1783).
Also on Fuller’s map of Amelia Island is Mt. Misery, located in what is now Fort Clinch State Park. This is an identified location where enslaved people who had recently been “imported” from Africa are left if determined unmarketable from illness.
(from AIMH-UF; LOCGMD: http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.gmd/g3932a.ar163000; USRP)
1774
Naturalist William Bartram visits Amelia Island and the Egmont Plantation during his voyage to Florida. (from AIMH-UF)
Second Spanish Period, 1783-1821
Catholic Jurisdiction: Diocese of Santiago de Cuba, 1565-1787
Diocese of Havana, 1787-1793
Diocese of Louisana and the Floridas, 1793-1825
9/3/1783-1821
The Second Spanish period of Florida’s history begins with signing of the Treaty of Versailles, part of the Treaty of Paris of 1783. This gives British residents of Florida 18 months to relocate.
1783
When the Spanish retake possession of Florida, a Catholic presence is established on Amelia Island. A church census from the time shows 103 Roman Catholic families. (from CAI:1)
1784
The “New Settlement” (future Old Town Fernandina), shown on Fuller’s 1770 map is finally organized when the Spanish return to Amelia Island.
(from LOCGMD: http://hdl.loc.gov/loc.gmd/g3932a.ar163000)
1784-1792
During this period, 20 people are reported to have been baptized in the Nassau River area (Amelia Island) by Rev. Thomas Hassett. (from CAI:1)
Original “pioneer” family names are identified as: Ferreira; Kelley; Lassere; Leddy; Mularkey; Nolan; Powers; Villalonga; and Waas. (from EA:193)
1787-1793
Spanish Florida falls under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Havana.
Spanish Governor Vizente Zespedes and Rev. Michael O’Reilly, assistant pastor in St. Augustine, make a lengthy tour of north Florida to determine how many Irish priests should be enlisted to minister to the European settlers. (From CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1791-1804
The Haitian Revolution is triggered with a slave revolt on 8/22/1791. French refugees flee north to the US and settle with their slaves in major cities on the Southern Atlantic and Gulf coasts including Charleston (SC), Savannah (GA), and New Orleans (LA).
1793-1825
The territory of the Diocese of St. Augustine falls under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Louisiana and the Floridas.
1807
The US Embargo Act of 1807 is passed, closing all US ports to European trade, including Spanish Florida. Because of its proximity to the US border, Fernandina becomes a center for smuggling goods and enslaved peoples. (from FHM-PlazaSanCarlos; AIMH-UF)
8/9/1807
The Spanish Government grants Don Domingo Fernandez land that was once part of the Earl of Egmont’s property on Amelia Island. His holdings encompass the present city of Fernandina Beach and land around St. Michael’s Church. (from FHM-FernandezGrant)
1808
After the import of Africans was banned by the US, Fernandina becomes a major importation site for enslaved people. Old Town Fernandina serves as a location where “traders register, had inspections, unload, and sold their enslaved imports.” Enslaved people are easily smuggled across the St. Mary’s River into Georgia and the Carolinas.
(from USRP)
1811
Present day “Old Town” Fernandina is re-plotted by George J. F. Clarke on the orders of Spanish Governor Enrique White. Two lots (lots 5 and 7) on Block 2, are designated as “Church lots.” Catholics in the area are occasionally visited by a priest from St. Augustine. (from CAI:2; AIL:2011-04; AIMH-UF)
3/17/1812
The Patriots (Americans living in Florida and eager to help it become an American Territory), are aided by the US Navy to overthrow the Spanish battery in Fernandina, take possession of Amelia Island and the partially built Fort San Carlos. The US flag replaces the Patriot’s standard after one day. Georgia Governor David Byrdie Mitchell is secretly appointed by American President James Madison to oversee Patriot activity in Florida. American gunboats control the island until the Spanish are forced to evacuate in 1813. (from FHM-PlazaSanCarlos; AIMH-UF)
6/1812
The US declares war on Great Britain, beginning the War of 1812. America fears that the Spanish will form an alliance with Great Britain and establish a staging ground in Florida. Seminoles join the Spanish, raiding homes and attacking Patriots and Patriot sympathizers.
5/1813
The Spanish regain control of their partially built Fort (San Carlos). (from FHM-PlazaSanCarlos; AIMH-UF)
5/1814
With the death of General Buckner Harris, the Patriot movement collapses.
12/24/1814
The Treaty of Ghent (Belgium), is signed, ended the War of 1812. The US gives up its demands to end impressment. Britain agrees to leave the US/Canadian border unchanged and abandons efforts to create an Indian state in the Northwest.
1814
Catholics of Fernandina request a chapel and resident priest but neither are provided. The Diocese of Louisiana and the Floridas has no bishop at this time. The request sparks debate among the local hierarchy. (from CAI:2; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1/8/1815
Unaware of the peace accord and end of the War of 1812, the British mount a major attack on New Orleans and are defeated by Andrew Jackson’s army.
1816
The Spanish complete Fort San Carlos in Fernandina. It guards the city through the 19th century, and falls into disuse after the Spanish-American War in 1898. It is rediscovered by archaeologists in the mid-twentieth century. (from FHM-PlazaSanCarlos)
6-12/1817
Desiring the independence of Florida, 55 American citizens led by Gregor MacGregor seize Fort San Carlos on June 29th. They attempt to establish an independent nation in East and South Florida, but only manage to hold Amelia Island. MacGregor withdraws in September and the Fort then falls into the hands of French corsair/pirate Louis-Michel Aury. The Mexican Republic flag flies over Fernandina until December of 1817, when the US Navy occupies the island “in custody for Spain.”
US customs agents estimate that during the less than 2 months of Aury’s occupation, more than 1,000 enslaved Africans had been sold and smuggled north to the US. (from AIL: 2010-06; FHM-FortSanCarlos; AIMH-UF)
1819
Spain cedes Florida (including Amelia Island) to the United States under the Adams-Onís Treaty. (from AIMH-UF)
US Territorial Period, 1821-1845
Catholic Jurisdiction: Diocese of Louisana and the Floridas, 1793-1825
Vicariate of Alabama and the Floridas, 1825-1829
Diocese of Mobile, 1829-1850
1821
Florida becomes a US Territory.
Many free people of color, enslaved people of color, and Black Seminoles from Fernandina and St. Augustine flee with the Spanish to Havana, Cuba to avoid US enslavement laws.
(from AIMH-UF)
1825
The Legislative Council of the Territory of Florida passes, “An Act to Incorporate the city of Fernandina.” Fernandina becomes the seat of government for Nassau County. (from FHM-FernandezGrant; AIMH-UF)
1825-1829
The Diocese of St. Augustine falls under the jurisdiction of the Vicariate of Alabama and the Floridas.
1829-1850
East and South Florida fall under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Mobile.
1830
The (Indian) Removal Act of 1830 is presented by President Andrew Jackson and adopted by Congress. It establishes a process by which the President can grant land west of the Mississippi River to Indian tribes agreeing to give up their homelands for “Reservations.” The Cherokee Nation resists any incentives and are forcibly removed from Georgia in 1838 (the Trail of Tears).
2/1835
An extended freeze destroys North Eastern Florida’s citrus groves, a principal source of livelihood for many, and sends region into economic downturn. (from CIS:149)
12/1835-1842
War breaks out with the Seminoles (the Second Seminole War) and plantations in the St. Augustine area are attacked and burned. Refugees flood into the city where Federal troops are garrisoned. Peace finally ensues in 1842. (from CIS:150)
1/16/1836
Catholics in the city of St. Augustine send a desperate letter to the Bishop of Havana describing their “total ruin” due to the recent freeze and ask for financial support. The letter is again received during a change in episcopal administration. No acknowledgement comes from Cuba. (from CIS:150)
1836
Texas declares its independence from Mexico.
1839
East Florida (Fernandina) becomes part of the Diocese of Mobile. (from MCA-1840)
1839-1841
Fernandina, Amelia Island, Jacksonville and other stations are attended to from St. Augustine.
(from MCA-1839; EA:189)
1844
Michael V. Gannon writes that a small mission church in Fernandina is built around this time. Rev. Edmond Aubril, CPM is living on Amelia Island. Other small mission churches are also built in Jacksonville, Mandarin, and Black Creek. (from CIS:151)
Florida Statehood, 1845-present
Catholic Jurisdiction: Diocese of Mobile, 1829-1850
Diocese of Savannah, 1850-1857
Vicariate Apostolic of Florida, 1857-1870
Diocese of St. Augustine, 1870-present
3/3/1845
Florida becomes a US state by an Act of Congress. Tallahassee is named its capital.
1846-1848
In January of 1846, President Polk orders General Zachary Taylor to occupy disputed borderlands between the US and Texas. A skirmish on the border in May leads the US declaring war on Mexico. Mexican forces surrender California on 1/13/1847 with the Treaty of Cahuenga. The war ends with the Treaty of Guadalupe Hidalgo on 2/2/1848. In it, the US receives land that becomes the states of Arizona, California, Western Colorado, Nevada, New Mexico, Texas and Utah for a price, with the promise that residents get to keep their land grants from Spain and be given US citizenship.
1850
East Florida including Fernandina, and South Florida fall under the jurisdiction of the Diocese of Savannah. (from MCA-1851)
1851
Catholic directories first list a chapel with no name at Fernandina. (from MCA-1851)
1855-1858
The Third Seminole War breaks out in Florida.
1856
Construction starts on the Florida Railroad, a cross-state line beginning in Fernandina and ending at Cedar Key. It is initially owned and operated by Senator and Railroad magnet David Yulee. Construction is completed on 3/1/1861. Many of those who build the railroad are enslaved peoples, rented from their owners. (from CSF:4; AIMH-UF)
Railroad construction brings Irish labors to Amelia Island, adding to the Catholic community. (from CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1/9/1857
The Vicariate Apostolic of Florida is erected and encompasses the east and south of the state. It is administered by Diocese of Savannah Bishop, Augustine Verot. West Florida is separately administered by the Diocese of Mobile. (from DACA-1859)
c.1857
The Town of Fernandina moves to a new location, colloquially designate “New Town,” about a mile south of “Old Town” because it is situated in a low marshy section of Amelia Island. The move is precipitated by Senator and Railroad magnet David Yulee. After founding the Florida Railroad Company in 1853, he persuades the town to move to a place that is more advantageous to construction of his cross-state rail line. His new town plan is influenced by New York City’s plan of 1811.
One of the first structures to be built in New Fernandina by David Yulee is the Florida House, a boarding house for rail employees and dignitaries. It accommodates many famous personalities through out its history, including President Ulysses S. Grant, Cuban revolutionary Jose Marti, Henry Form, and comedians Laurel & Hardy. It continues operation today. (from SMCC, CSF:4; AIMH-UF)
1859
Fernandina is described as a rapidly growing town with a wooden church under construction. The community is attended by priests from St. Augustine. Irish laborers working for the Florida Railroad are credited with substantially contributing wood to the church building. This first structure is likely located at the site of the current St. Michael’s church. (from MCA-1859; EA:189; CAI:2)
2/20/1859
The power of the Church Wardens in control of St. Augustine’s Catholic congregation is diminished by Bishop Augustin Verot. The Church Wardens agree to lease the Church, burying grounds, and all other property to Augustine Verot. They also agree not to dispute the appointment of future pastors or management of Church property. Authority over the St. Augustine Church (and its missions including Fernandina) is entirely given to Rev. Benedict Madeore, CMP and Rev. Edmund Aubril, CMP, who had been ministering there since 1844. (from CIS:166)
1859
Rev. Benedict Madeore, CMP is recalled to France by his order and Rev. Edmund Aubril, CMP takes over management of St. Augustine and missions, as well as Vicar General-ship of the Vicariate. Additional stations are given to Amelia Island including: Old Town (Fernandina), Starke, Gainesville, and Newnansville (along the railroad line from Fernandina to Cedar Key). (from CIS:168)
5/14/1859
Bishop Michael Portier (Mobile) dies in office. He is succeeded by Bishop John Quinlan, consecrated on 12/4/1859. (from CIS: 169)
1/10/1861
Florida secedes from the Union and joins the Confederate States of America.
Bishop Quinlan of Mobile is an early and fervent supporter of succession, as is his Catholic congregations in Alabama and West Florida. (from CIS:172)
3/1/1861
The first train from Fernandina arrives at Cedar Key, just weeks before the start of the Civil War. (from AIMH-UF)
1861
Fernandina is described as being garrisoned by 2,000 Confederate recruits. (from EA:189)
2/24/1862
Confederates evacuate Amelia Island (FL) and Cumberland Island (GA), abandoning the defenses at Fernandina. (from AIMH-UF)
3/2/1862
Union troops take military possession of Amelia Island. It remains in Federal possession for the duration of the war. Within two months of the occupation, Union soldiers break into St. Michael’s church, stealing vestments and sacred vessels. Outraged, Fr. Henry Clavreul slips through enemy lines and travels to Savannah to give news of the desecration to Bishop Augustin Verot in person. Bishop Verot writes angry letters to local military officials. (from CAI:3; CIS:172-173)
3/3/1862
The last train out of Fernandina is filled with fleeing civilians and a detachment of Florida cavalry. It is chased for two miles along the Amelia River by Federal gunboat, Ottowa.
Yulee’s railroad ceases operation. It is torn up between Fernandina and Cedar Key by Confederate troops to be used elsewhere. (from AIMH-UF)
3/11/1862
Union troops land in St. Augustine. Many Confederate sympathizers flee the city the day before after Federal troops were sighted.
Reports of “Yankees landing” reach Rev. John Bernard Aulance while he was saying mass, causing a panic flight from the church during mass, with the congregation ignoring Fr. Aulance’s remonstrations. (from CIS:172-173)
3/12/1862
Union troops land in Jacksonville. (from CIS:172; RB:66)
8/2/1862
Brigadier General Alfred H. Terry, in command of the Morris Island Division of the X Corps (in South Carolina) writes a letter to Colonel Richard Rich, commander in St. Augustine, explaining Bishop Augustine Verot’s complaint about St. Michael’s desecration saying, “Such an act of sacrilege must be detected and punished. If necessary, open every knapsack in your command and examine every house in the city.” It is unclear if anything came of the letter. (from CAI:3; RB:66)
1/1/1863
President Abraham Lincoln declares that “all persons held as slaves” within the rebellious states, “are, and henceforward shall be free” in his Emancipation Proclamation. It is read out loud to the public.
3/1864
The Freedmen’s Aid Society (a private association) establishes schools for people of color in Fernandina, St. Augustine, and Jacksonville.
No Catholic school on Fernandina serve people of color before or during the Civil War in Florida. (from RB:129-130)
1865
In the Boston Semi-Weekly Advertiser, a letter dated March 1, 1865 describes a Catholic Church in Fernandina as, “an unpretending building standing nearby the Domingo Fernández grave monument.” (from CAI:2)
4/9/1865
The American Civil War ends and Reconstruction begins.
1866
After the Civil War, Fernandina’s economy is revived by local industries such as the Amelia Steam Sawmill (established by Colonel J.C. Read) and Yulee’s Railroad, rebuilt by 1869. (from AIMH-UF)
6/1866
In his diary, Bishop Augustin Verot records spending a the last week of June in Fernandina and celebrating confirmation. (from EA:170)
8/1866
Eight women from the Sisters of St. Joseph Congregation in Le Puy, France arrive at St. Augustine.
Concerned about the lack of Catholic education for formerly enslaved persons and persons of color, Bishop Verot had visited the Sisters in Le Puy, France on July 5th to describe the situation. The Congregation endorses a mission in Florida. (from RB:123-133)
1866-1869
According to the 1866 Catholic Directory, Rev. Henry Clavreul of Fernandina also attends Catholics in Starke, Gainesville, Newnansville, and Cedar Key. (from SCA-1866-1871)
9/1867
In his diary, Bishop Augustin Verot records spending a few days in Fernandina and buying a lot in Old Town (the possession of which had been lost during the Civil War). He gives orders for a “little chapel” to be built. This becomes a place for Black Catholics to worship, the future St. Peter Claver. (from EA:170; RB:149; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1869-1870
The first permanent priest in residence at Fernandina is described in the Florida Catholic as Rev. Charles Sartorio. He is Italian and dies within the year. He is buried at the entrance to St. Michael’s in 1870. (from EA:189; CAI: 4)
5/11/1870
The Diocese of St. Augustine is erected.
1871
The 1871 Catholic Directory mentions that measures are being taken to build a “new and substantial” brick church. (from SCA-1871)
5/1871
Rev. John Bertazzi requests that the Sisters of St. Joseph educate children at St. Michael’s Parish for First Communion. Mother Sidona sends two sisters, Sr. Marie Celinie and Helen to Fernandina. They occupy a rented house on the Wilson Estate (corner of Broome & Eighth). From May until October, White children are taught in a room in the home where the Sisters live. Eventually the women are permanently assigned to St. Michael’s. They teach White children and children of color in separate buildings. The school is claimed as one of the oldest parochial school systems in the US.
The Sisters of St. Joseph initially survive by making and selling French lace, giving French lessons, and doing odd jobs. (from EA:191; CAI:4,14; CIS:184; RB:133; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1872
The 1872 Catholic Directory indicates that measures have been taken to build a new substantial brick church under the patronage of Fray Miguel de Añon, who was erroneously believed to have been killed there (see Other Notes “Where Did the Name “St. Michael” come from? Correcting Bishop Augustine Verot’s History”).
The Catholic directory also mentions a “flourishing Colored congregation” in Fernandina and a school for colored children, opened by the Sisters of St. Joseph. It also indicates that St. Joseph’s Deanery in Fernandina was opened by the Sisters to educate children that might be drawn by the “recently established Protestant Episcopal academy” named St. Mary’s Priory. It is unclear which this educational institution closed. (from SCA-1872)
9/1872
Rev. John Bertazzi builds a 138 x 42 brick church on the northeast corner of Fourth and Broome streets in “New Town” Fernandina. In October, Bishop Verot records visiting the church and giving directions to continuing its construction. The church is dedicated under the patronage of St. Michael the Archangel, in remembrance of Fray Miguel de Añon. (from EA:189-190; CAI:1; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1873
In his diary, Bishop Augustin Verot records visiting the church in the Spring to administer Confirmation and seeing the new church. He also mentions paying the last installment for the church. (from EA:190)
2/8/1874
The church at Fernandina is dedicated by Bishop Verot. It is a brick building with a steeple and stained glass windows. (from EA:190; RB:243)
1874
In his diary, Bishop Augustin Verot records visiting the church in the summer and confirming a number of individuals. (from EA:190)
1874-1875
The 1874 Catholic Directory indicates that the Catholics in Gainesville, Starke, Newnansville, Waldo, and Cedar Keys are attended to by the resident priest in Fernandina. (from SCA-1874-1875)
1875
Bishop Verot records “preaching the Jubilee” in Fernandina. (from EA:190)
The 1875 Catholic Directory describes the new and substantial brick church which was built by the Catholics of Fernandina. It has a steeple and stained glass windows which “do great honor to their taste and generosity.” It is dedicated under the patronage of St. Michael the Archangel, in remembrance of Fray Miguel de Añon. (from SCA-1875)
During Bishop Verot’s 1875 visit to St. Michael’s, he observes the poor and inadequate housing of the Sisters of St. Joseph and buys them a building on North Fourth Street. (from CAI:14)
3/23/1876
A great fire breaks out during the night near the port in Fernandina which destroys nearly 40 buildings on the waterfront business district. (from AIMH-UF)
1877
The Railroad company constructs Fernandina’s first major tourist hotel on the corner of South 7th and Beech Streets, the Egmont. The Mallory steamship begins making weekly trips from New York to Fernandina. (from CSF:6)
Fall 1877
A Yellow Fever outbreak hits Fernandina. This is the first major epidemic Fernandina experiences.
On August 31 Jacksonville declares a quarantine against Fernandina and by September 17th, has placed armed guards around the Jacksonville city limits to intercept travelers from Fernandina. (from Jax Journal, 1975-12-04: 22)
The Sisters of St. Joseph turn the convent into a hospital and are remembered for fighting tirelessly to care for sick residents. In October 13, Mother Celenie and Sr. de Sales die of Yellow Fever and are buried in what is now the Villalonga Park cemetery on the Church grounds. (from Jax Journal, 1975-12-04: 22; CBSA-Moore)
1879
After his death, Rev. John Bertazzi is buried outside the entrance to St. Michael’s next to Rev. Charles Sartorio. (from EA:189)
1879-1884
During the time of Rev. John O’Boyle, a frame building serving as the rectory is built on the southeast corner of the church lot. It is described as a double-galleried rectory. (from EA:190; CAI:6)
1880
The “Savannah, Florida & Western Railway Co.” begins building the Waycross Short Line (later known as the Atlantic Coast Line) which brings Irish laborers from the North to live along the line between Southern GA and Jacksonville, FL.
Many Irish Catholics come with this migration. Rev. John O’Boyle is credited with ministering to them by taking multiple methods of transportation including steamship to their encampment located 1 mile from the Dixie Highway crossed the St. Mary’s River (now on the Florida-Georgia border). Rev. O’Boyle hears many confessions and offer mass on stumps or logs. (from EA:194)
1880-1882
The Brief history of the Churches of the Diocese of St. Augustine Florida, Part VII records Fr. John O’Boyle coming to minster regularly to a family in Boulogne at this time. Not quite a station of Fernadina, he did offer mass at the house of Mr. Lucian Poiney Tracy and baptize his children. (from EA:194)
1881-1883
In his 1881 Report to the Diocese, pastor Rev. John F. O’Boyle mentions the formation of St. Benedict’s building societies. It is only mentioned through 1883. (from CBSA-Moore)
Around this timeframe a Catholic worship station is mentioned in Hilliard. (from EA:196)
2/26/1881
The Sisters of St. Joseph begin building a convent near St. Michael’s Church. An architect is engaged and some generous ship captains waive freight fees for the Philadelphia brick arriving at the Fernandina docks. Property for a convent and school had been purchased adjacent to the Fernández Reserve and Villalonga Park with the help of their mother convent in France.
(from CAI:15)
11/4/1882
After more than a year of construction the Sisters of St. Joseph move into their newly built convent and school, built of brick. Italian marble altars are donated by Leonilla Villalonga (descendant of Fernández) and installed in St. Michael’s church and the convent chapel. Ms. Villalonga later resided in a small apartment built for her over the east wing of the convent.
(from CAI:15)
1882
St. Josephs Academy opens and holds its first sessions. In 1884, board, tuition, washing, bed, and bedding were advertised at $40.50 per quarter. Music lessons with the use of an instrument were an additional $12. (from EA:191; CAI:17, 23)
3/15/1884
The Florida Mirror declares Fernandina “…one of the healthiest portions of Florida.” (from CAI:17)
8/25/1884
The Sisters of St. Joseph raffle off their house and lot on Fourth Street. Raffle tickets are $2 per ticket and 600 are purchased. The lucky winner is Mr. Hughes of New York. (from CAI:17)
1885
According to a report made to the Bishop dated January 1885, $18,711.12 was spent to build the St. Joseph Convent brick building. (from CBSA-Moore)
1888
Pastor, Rev. Anthony F. J. Kilcoyne, repairs and improves the “new” St. Michael’s Church.
Rev. Kilcoyne also erects St. Peters Claver’s Chapel in Old Towne for the Black Catholics of St. Michael’s Parish. (from EA:190; CAI:6; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
Pastor Rev. Anthony F. J. Kilcoyne notes a $20.00 loss in the parish report to the Diocese, due to fire. (from CBSA-Moore)
1889
During the Spanish-American War, Rev. Maurice P. Foley, pastor at St. Michael’s, attends to the spiritual needs of the Catholic soldiers from the 69th New York and 8th Michigan regiments encamped at Fernandina. He offers a military mass when the troops depart. (from CAI:8)
1890-1891
In a letter to the Bishop from Sr. L. Antonia, on the school year at St. Michael’s school in Fernandina, demographics of the pupils in attendance are reported. For the 1890-1891 school year, the sisters report 10 boarders, 30 White boys, 50 White girls, 10 “Colored” boys, and 8 “Colored” girls in attendance, making it 128 students total. The school also had 6 sisters teaching. (from CBSA-Moore)
1891
In a letter from the pastor, Rev. Anthony F. J. Kilcoyne, to Bishop John Moore, Fr. Kilcoyne mentions the total number of “Colored” Catholics for the previous year at the parish (17 men, 23 women, 58, 98 total) and sympathizes with the Bishop’s recent hardships including the burning of the SSJ convent in Jacksonville, and the obstinacy of Fr. JJ Creed (Orlando).
(from CBSA-Moore)
1892
In his annual Report to the Diocese, the pastor, Rev. Anthony F. J. Kilcoyne first records collecting for the Indian and Negro collection. (from CBSA-Moore)
1895
St. Peter Claver chapel in “Oldtown, Fernandina” is built by Rev. Anthony Kilcoyne, the pastor of St. Michael’s, “for the colored contingent of his parish.” It is believed that relics of St. Peter Claver were installed near the high altar of the church. (from EA:190; CAI:6)
1895-1898
Cuban revolutionaries fight with Spain to gain their independence.
7/9/1896
A solemn Requiem Mass is celebrated a month after the death of former pastor, Rev. Anthony F. J. Kilcoyne. It is presided over by Very Rev. William J. Kenny, VG. Mr. P. Brady presides over the choir. (from EA:191)
In an Annual Parish Report to the Diocese from pastor Rev. Maurice P. Foley date January 1, 1897, he indicates that there are 78 students attending the parochial school. (from CBSA-Moore)
1897
In a report of St. Michael’s School submitted to the Diocese for 1897, the total number of children in attendance are 86, with 6 sisters teaching. Of those children, 35 are not Catholic, 30 are White boys, 28 are White girls, 10 are “Colored” boys, and 12 are “Colored” girls. (from CBSA-Moore)
1898
On April 25th the US declares war on Spain.
After mounting tensions between the US and Spain over revolutionary fighting in Cuba, the US battleship Maine is sunk in Havana Harbor. The Treaty of Parish is signed on December 10, 1898 and ends Spanish influence in the Western hemisphere, relinquishing its claims to Cuba, and ceding Guam, Puerto Rico, and the Philippines to the US.
1898
Soldiers from the New York 69th and the Michigan 8th regiments stop at Fernandina on their way to the Spanish American War. The Catholic soldiers are ministered to by Rev. Maurice P. Foley. He is remembered for celebrating an impressive military mass when the troops departed.
(from EA:191; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
10/1898
A powerful hurricane strikes Fernandina Beach causing extensive flooding and damage to the city. The city is described as “nearly destroyed.” (from AIMH-UF)
1898
In a report of St. Michael’s School submitted to the Diocese for 1898, the total number of children in attendance are 67, with 9 sisters teaching. Of those children, 21 are not Catholic, 27 are White boys, 24 are White girls, 6 are “Colored” boys, and 10 are “Colored” girls. (from CBSA-Moore)
1898-1899
During the school year, the parish reports nine sisters actively employed at the school. The total number of students in attendance are 64, 23 of which are not Catholic. Of the total students, 4 are boarders. The day scholars are divided into White and “Colored” students, with 20 White boys, 29 White girls, 5 “Colored” boys and 6 “Colored” girls in attendance. (from CBSA-Moore)
1899
In his annual parish report to the Diocese, pastor Rev. Maurice P. Foley reports that he built a bell tower in the past year, improving the parish property. (from CBSA-Moore)
1899-1902
The US fights the Philippine-American War. The Philippines does not gain independence from the US until 1946.
6/17/1899
The Sisters of the Blessed Sacrament donate $500 for a school for children of color in Old Town. (from SMCC; CBSA-Tanner)
1900
In his annual parish report to the Diocese, pastor Rev. Maurice P. Foley lists the building covered by the insurance plan include the “Old Town” Chapel, the “Old Town Colored” school house (also identified as “St. Peter Claver School for Colored Children” in another part of the report) and the Parochial house.
During the school year, the parish reports 8 sisters actively employed at the school. The total number of students in attendance are 117, all of which are Catholic. Of the total students, there are no boarders. The day scholars are divided into White and “Colored” students, with 25 White boys, 72 White girls, no “Colored” boys and 20 “Colored” girls in attendance. (from CBSA-Moore)
1900
The Sisters of St. Joseph in St. Augustine become an independent convent from the Le Puy Motherhouse in France. Some French sisters return to France.
1901
During the school year, the parish reports 10 sisters actively employed at the school. The total number of students in attendance are 102, 60 of which are not Catholic. Of the total students, there are no boarders. The day scholars are divided into White and “Colored” students, with 25 White boys, 54 White girls, 12 “Colored” boys and 11 “Colored” girls in attendance.
(from CBSA-Moore)
1902
In his Annual Parish Report for 1902, Pastor Maurice P. Foley states that they installed a new pipe organ valued at $1350 in the past year at St. Michael’s church. (from CBSA-Kenny)
1903-1914
A canal through Panama is built.
1904
In Sr. Antonia’s report of schools in Fernandina, she notes that her total pupils are 118 and 47 are not Catholic. There are 12 Sisters of St. Joseph at the school teaching. The student body is made up of 33 Whit boys, 58 White girls, 11 “Colored” boys, and 16 “Colored girls.
(from CBSA-Kenny)
1906
In his Annual Parish Report for 1905, Pastor John O’Brien gives a total census of Amelia Island as follows:
241 White Catholics (65 men/67 women/109 children)
All White children attend Catholic schools
132 “Negro” Catholics (35 men/37 women/ 60 children)
28 “Negro” children attend Catholic School and 17 public school
Total of 373 souls at St. Michael’s parish in Fernandina.
(from CBSA-Kenny)
1907
The History of Florida’s Churches claims that the Catholic population of Fernandina in this year numbered about 400, 125 of whom were persons of color. The church is also described as poor. (from EA:191)
2/1908
Women from the congregation give money to fund building as more permanent brick wall to mark the graves of Rev. Charles Sartorio and Very Rev. John Bertazzi. (from EA:189)
3/1908
Miss Leonella Villalonga, whose family reserved the block between St. Michael’s and the SSJ Convent as a family burial ground (known as Villalonga Park), donates marble altars to the church and SSJ convent chapel. (from EA:191)
4/28/1908
Rt. Rev. William J. Kenney confirms a class of 45 (6 adults, 21 children, 18 persons of color) and administers First Communion to a dozen. (from EA:192)
1910
In his annual report to the Bishop, pastor Rev. John O’Brien mentions that education at the “colored” school “is a farce” and requests a teacher. (from CBSA-Kenny)
1911
During the tenure of pastor Rev. John O’Brien, the US Department of Commerce and Labor completes a census on Religious Bodies in the US. Rev. O’Brien’s form indicates that the church was established in 1870 and has two sanctuaries which seat 400 people. The church is not in debt at the time. Services are conducted in Latin and English and membership is 425. (from CBSA-Kenny)
6/28/1914
The “Great War” (WWI) breaks out in Europe with the assassination of Archduke Franz Ferdinand (Austro-Hungarian Empire).
1914-1915
In his 1914 and 1915 reports to the Bishop, St. Michael’s pastor Rev. James Nunan indicates that the parochial school educates 117 children, 27 of which are students of color (11 boys and 16 girls). (from CBSA-Curley)
1915-1934
The US invades Haiti and occupies it until 1934, though withdrawal begins in 1929 with a series of strikes and uprisings.
1916
American troops are deployed to Mexico to hunt down rebel leader Pancho Villa.
4/6/1917
The US declares war on Germany and officially enters the “Great War” (WWI).
1917
In his 1917 report to the Bishop, St. Michael’s pastor Rev. James Nunan indicates that the parochial school educates 75 children, 15 of which are students of color (5 boys and 10 girls). (from CBSA-Curley)
11/11/1918
The Allies declare victory and World War I concludes with the signing of an Armistice agreement.
Winter 1923-1924
The rectory is remodeled under the pastorship of Rev. James J. Nevin and “the auspices of the Catholic men’s club.” (from EA:192; CBSA-Barry)
1/1924
A new brick church for persons of color is erected in Fernandina on a more suitable lot, North 3rd and Calhoun Street. The congregation at the time is described as small with a successful school that has 80 pupils. By this time, the 1895 chapel of St. Peters is described as “dilapidated” and “unfit.” (from EA:192-193; CAI:5)
2/3-10/1924
Rev. John Foulkes, SJ conducts a weeklong parish mission at St. Michaels. (from EA:193)
8/15/1924
On the Feast of the Assumption, a new 2,300 lb. church bell is blessed by Rev. Bernard Weigl, OSB (St. Leos Abbey) and is christened the “Raymond Bell” in memory of the late Mr. H.H. Raymond, the donor who made the bell’s gift possible. This replaces the old engine bell which was being used and dated 1750. (from EA:192)
1924
Active parish groups recorded for St. Michael’s and St. Peter Claver include: Knights of Columbus (Council no. 720); St. Peter Claver Society (for adults of color) and St. Cecilia’s Sodality (for children of color). (from EA:193)
1924
St. Peter Claver school is built between 5th and 6th Streets. (from CAI:7)
c.1924
St. Joseph’s Hall is built at the corner of Fourth and Calhoun Streets. It has served as a gathering place for performances. (from CAI:24)
1926-1934
During the time of Rev. Thomas Jones, the first parish history is written. (from CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1929
Over a period of 10 weeks, stocks on the NY Stock Exchange lose 50% of their worth and continue to fall, causing a country-wide economic depression.
1933
President Franklin Delano Roosevelt begins implementing a “New Deal” with the American people. This helped simulate the economy and employ workers looking for jobs. By this time, 1 out of 4 people were unemployed.
1933-1952
During the time of Rev. P. J. Halligan, stained glass memorial windows are installed and St. Michael’s church is enlarged. Parishioner Fran Mayer, is credited with rebuilding the doors, windows and railing in the sanctuary and the Marian Shrine. (from CAI:8; CBSA-Snyder/Estéves)
9/3/1939
In response to Hitler’s invasion of Poland, Britain and France declare war on Germany, beginning World War II.
12/7/1941
Following the Japanese bombing of Pearl Harbor, the US declares war on Japan, and becomes a member of the Allies in Europe, fighting a war in the European and Pacific theaters.
1945
World War II ends. On May 8th Germany surrenders in Europe. The US drop atomic bombs on Hiroshima and Nagasaki, causing Japan to surrender on September 2nd.
1950-1953
The US finds itself at war on the Korean penninsula. The 38th parallel is drawn, dividing Korea into the North and South.
The Cold War with the Soviets/Communist ideology begins about this time.
4/21/1954
St. Michaels is formally erected as a parish encompassing the entire territory of Nassau County by Archbishop Joseph P. Hurley. (from CBSA-Hurley/Estévez)
1954-1973
With the Fall of Dien Bien Phu in 1954, the French pull out of Indochina. Fear of communist nationalists cause the US to remain and leads to a long military involvement, ending with complete US withdrawal in January of 1973. The war is remembered for the high costs including American lives.
6/1959
St. Peter Claver school is closed for lack of pupils. The school is used as a meeting hall after its closure. (from SMCC; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
4/15/1961
An attempted to overthrow the Cuban leader, Fidel Castro, the Bay of Pigs invasion was a disaster and has become known as one of the greatest disasters in American Military history.
6/1961
The Sisters of St. Joseph end sponsorship of St. Joseph’s Academy at the end of the school year and sell the school, convent and hall buildings to St. Michael’s church.
At the time the school closed, tuition is $10 per month for children in kindergarten ($100 per school year), $7 per month for children in 1st grade ($70 per school year), and $6 per month for children in 2nd through 8th grade ($60 per school year.) (from CAI:24; CBSA-Hurley/Estévez)
10/1962
For 13 days, the US and Cuba navigated an intense military and political standoff over the installation of nuclear-armed Soviet missiles on Cuba.
c.1965
The third floor of the Sisters of St. Joseph Academy is removed. (from CAI:27; Jax Journal, 12/4/1975:22)
6/1971
St. Michael’s School closes at the end of term. The school and the convent are closed for repairs but never reopen. (from CAI:27; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
9/29/1972
St. Michael’s Church celebrates its 100th Anniversary since dedication. (from CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1973
The Diocesan insurance company recommends demolition of the school and convent because of their state of disrepair. The Diocesan Building Commission agrees. The demolition requires approval from the Amelia Island-Fernandina Restoration Foundation. No approvals were every received and the buildings still stand today. (from Jax Journal, 12/04/1975:22)
1974
St. Peter’s School on Fernandina is sold. (from CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1976
A new rectory is purchased across the street from St. Michael’s church. The priests had moved out of the rectory in in August of 1974 due to the poor state of repair. (from CAI:6; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1978
The 1879-1884 St. Michael’s rectory is demolished. (from CAI:6)
1980s-1990s
Restorations and renovations at St. Michael’s take place: The bell tower and church exterior are restored; the stained glass windows are restored; and the parish hall is renovated. (from CAI:8)
1987
Portions of The New Adventures of Pippi Long Stockings, a children’s movie directed by Ken Annakin (released in 1988) is filmed in the St. Michael School building. (from News-Leader, 7/30/1987)
1997
St. Michael’s church begins restoration of the old St. Joseph Academy building. Some of this money comes from state preservation grants. (from SMA; CBSA-Galeone/Estévez)
10/9/1999
St. Michael Academy is dedicated by Bishop Snyder. It reopens to kindergarten through 4th grade at the beginning of the school year in the old St. Joseph Academy building. (from SMA; CBSA-Snyder/Estévez)
2001
Plans are drawn up to expand St. Michael’s church sanctuary, which had been struggling with overcrowding and disrepair. This plan included rebuilding the third floor (to use as a library and media center rather than convent) and adding a second building on the property to house the middle school. However, landownership came into question and the Fernandina Beach Historic District Council voted down the plan. Just the third floor of the old Academy building is rebuilt. (from CBSA-Galeone/Estévez)
2005
St. Michael Academy opens a new wing for the Middle school. (from SMA)
2011
The Diocesan Building Commission approves parish plans to renovate and build an addition on to the Parish hall. (from CBSA-Estévez)
2013
Bishop Estévez approves an expansion project for St. Michael’s that includes aa new parish hall, sanctuary expansion, and building of a mission chapel in Yulee. (from CBSA-Estévez)
8/1/2015
Bishop Estévez dedicates the expanded St. Michael’s church. (from CBSA-Estévez)
- Parish Membership Statistics, 1878-1923
(from Parish Annual Reports found in Bishop’s Records)
Year
Men
Women
Children
Total
1878
152
120
293
565
1879
154
124
310
588
1880
173
134
340
647
1881
183
141
372
696
1882
195
153
387
735
1883
183
158
392
733
1885
153
141
253
544
1886
81
85
189
355
1887
62
76
173
311
1888
55
67
182
304
1889
49/17*
53/23*
169/58*
271/98*
1890
39
53
137
229
1891
38
60
143
241
1892
41
56
143
240
1893
43
57
130
230
1894
36
55
124
213
1895
42
60
140
242
1896
42
60
140
242
1897
45
65
150
260
1898
45
65
150
260
1899
70
80
50
200
1900
70
80
50
200
1901
80
90
100
270
1902
80
90
100
270
1904
85
95
100
280
1905
100
104
169
373
1906
65/35*
67/37*
109/60*
373
1907
100
104
169
373
1908
100
104
169
373
1910
100
100
90
290
1911
100
90
75
265
1912
100
90
75
265
1913
100
85
75
260
1914
180 (men + women)
70
250
1915
180 (men + women)
75
255
1917
170 (men + women)
70
240
1920
?
?
?
350
1921
?
?
?
370
1922
170 (men + women)
90
340
1923
60
90
130
280
* = Catholic Parishioners of Color
- Chronological List of Priests (BOLD = identified as Pastors)
Visiting Priests, c.1777-1868
Dates Served
Name
Notes
1777
Rev. Pedro Camps
Visiting priest (CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1784-1792
Rev. Thomas Hassett
Visiting priest (CAI:1; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1791
Rev. Michael Crosby
Visiting priest (CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1814
Rev. John Nepomucene Gomez
Visiting priest (CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
c.1828-1834
Rev. Edward Mayne
Served Fernandina from St. Augustine, was very unpopular
(CIS:148-149; USCAL-1835; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1832-1833
Rev. Jules Massip
Temporary assignment. Sent by Bishop John England (Charleston) to assist Rev. Mayne.
(CIS:149)
1-2/1835
Rev. Andrew Byrne
Temporary assignment. Sent to St. Augustine by Bishop John England (Charleston); Future 1st Bishop Little Rock
(CIS:149)
8-10/1835
Rev. Philip Gillick
Temporary assignment. Sent to St. Augustine by Bishop John England (Charleston)
(CIS:149)
February-Spring/1836
Rev. John Barry
Temporary assignment. Sent to St. Augustine by Bishop John England (Charleston); came from Most Holy Trinity Parish (Augusta), future 2nd Bishop of Savannah
(CIS:150)
1836-1843
Rev. Claude M. Rampon
(Diocese of Mobile) attended Fernandina Station and others from St. Augustine; Attended Fernandina mission with Rev. Patrick Hackett.
(MCA-1841; EA:189; CAI:2; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1839-1840
Rev. Patrick R. Hackett
(Diocese of Mobile) attended Fernandina Station from St. Augustine (MCA-1839-1940; EA:189; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1840-1841
Rev. Andrew Doyle
Priest of St. Marys, GA visits Northern settlements of East Florida as far as Jacksonville.
(MCA-1842; CIS:151)
1843
unknown
No directory available
1844-1859
Rev. Benedict Madore, CPM
Father of Mercy. Serves at St. Augustine and is also appointed VG of East Florida. Sent by Bishop Michael Portier (Mobile).
Recalled to France by Order in 1859. (CIS:151,166)
1844-1860
Rev. Edmund Aubril, CPM
Father of Mercy. In residence on Amelia Island when a small church is built in Fernandina. Sent by Bishop Michael Portier (Mobile). Attends Jacksonville, Fernandina (Old Town), Mandarin, Pikolata, Black Creek (Middleburg), 3 churches. Also Palatka, St. Johns Bar (Mayport), Ocala, Tallahassee, Key West, Tortuga Island, Fort Myers, and Tampa. Succeeded Fr. Madore as pastor of St. Augustine and VG of the Vicariate in 1859.
(CAI:2; MCA-1845, 1851; SCA-1850; CIS:150,166-167; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1857
Rev. Stephen Sheridan
(CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1859-1860
Rev. John Bernard Aulance
Assigned to Assist Fr. Aubril. (CAI:2)
1860-1861
Rev. Emile Hilaire
Old Town. One of the 7 French priests from Le Puy, France brought by Bishop Verot in 1859-1860. (EA; CAI:2; CIS:167)
10/1861-2/28/1862
Rev. Henry Peter Clavreul
His diary describes repeated visits until 1877. (EA)
1862-1865
Rev. Alexander M. Delafosse
Visits the Fernandina church during the Civil war. (SMCC)
1864
Rev. Emile Hillaire
The church location is in Old Town and the church on Amelia Island is attended from there. (SCA-1864)
1865
Rev. Charles A. Mailley
(CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1866-1868
Rev. Henry P. Clavreul
(SCA-1866; CAI:4; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1868
Rev. A. L. Andy
(CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
Resident Priests, 1869-1953
Dates Served
Name
Notes
1869-1870
Rev. Charles Sartorio
The first priest permanently stationed at Fernandina. Italian. Died in 1870 at 27 years old and buried near the entrance of St. Michael’s.
(EA; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1870
Rev. Peter Dufau
(CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
c. 1870-1879
Very Rev. John Bertazzi
Came from Genoa, Italy by way of Savannah. Built current St. Michaels Church. d. in 1879; buried near the entrance of St. Michael’s
(EA; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1871
Rev. Augustine Spandonari
(SCA-1871)
1872
Rev. John Bertazzi
After his death in 1879, he is buried with Rev. Charles Sartorio next to the doors of St. Michaels. (SCA-1872; CSF:20)
1877
Rev. Augustine Spandonari
(SCA-1877)
1879-1884
Rev. John O’Boyle
Retired from active ministry because of health reasons to Daytona. (EA; SCA-1880; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1885
unknown
No Directory Available
c.1884 – c. 6/1896
Rev. Anthony F. J. Kilcoyne
Graduate of St. Vincent’s Seminary in modern Latrobe, Pa. Died in Scranton, PA. (EA; SCA-1890; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
c.1896-1903
Very Rev. Maurice P. Foley, STD
Future Bishop Foley of Tuguegarao, Philippines (1910) and Jaro, Philippines (1916). (EA; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1903-Fall 1911
Rev. John O’Brien
(EA; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1/1912-3/1922
Rev. John J. Nunan
(EA; OCD–1914, 1916, 1919-1920; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
Summer 1912
Rev. Odilon Dubois, AA
Summer substitute for Rev. James Nunan while he was on vacation in Ireland
(EA)
Summer 1921
Rev. Jerome Wisniewski, OSB
Summer substitute for Rev. James Nunan while he was on vacation in Ireland (EA)
1922-1926
Rev. John J. Nevin
(EA; OCD-1925; SMCC; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1926-1934
Rev. Thomas Jones
(EA; OCD-1927-1935; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
Summer 1924
Rev. Florian Colbert, OSB
Summer substitute
(EA)
Summer 1924
Rev. Bernard Weigl, OSB
Summer substitute
(EA)
1933-1952
Rev. P. J. Halligan
(OCD-1936-1939; OCD-1942-1949; SMCC; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1950-1951
Rev. Francis T, Dunleavy
(CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1951-1952
Rev. Michael Nixon
(CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1953
Unknown.
No one listed in the OCD (OCD-1953)
Pastors, 1954-present
1954 -1957
Rev. Joseph F. Ketter
In 1954 the parish was officially erected. (OCD-1954-1957)
1957
Rev. Hubert J. Reason
(CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
10/1/1957-1959
Rev. Salvatore Profeta
(OCD-1958; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1959
St. Augustine Missing from OCD
1960-1961
Rev. Peter Reynolds
(OCD-1960-1961 CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
Summer 1961
Rev. Michael Gannon
(CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1961-1962
Rev. Thaddeus P. McHugh
(OCD-1962; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1963
Rev. William J. Holmes
(OCD-1963; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1964-1970
Rev. T. Leonard Duncan
(OCD-1964-1970; CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
1970-1972
Rev. Edward Kirby
(OCD-1971-1972)
1971
Rev. Oliver Barrett
Associate or Assistant
(OCD-1971)
1972
Rev. Rene Girard
Associate or Assistant extern from Canada via Orlando? (OCD-1972)
1973
Rev. Bernard McGuirk
(OCD-1973)
6/1973
Rev. John Gillespie
Possibly appointed here and then appointed elsewhere (CBSA-Tanner/Estévez)
8/1973-1979
Rev. Brian Killoran
(OCD-1974-1979)
1980 – 1983
Rev. Thomas K. Sullivan
Administrator (OCD-1980-1983)
1984 – 1994
Rev. Norman Edward Booth
(OCD-1984-1994)
1991 – 2007
Rev. Neil Cornelli
Associate or Assistant, Extern Diocese of Lansing, MI
2005, Retired (OCD-1991-2007)
1995 – 2002
Rev. Mark S. Waters
(OCD-1995-2002)
2000 – 2002
Rev. Robert L. Napier
Associate or Assistant
(OCD-2000-2002)
2003 – 2010
Rev. Brian S. Eburn
(OCD-2003-2010)
2008
Rev. George Burns
Retired, in residence
(OCD-2008)
2011 - present
Rev. Jose Kallukalam
Extern from India (OCD-2011-2021)
2015
Rev. Daniel C. Guindon, LC
Parochial Vicar
(OCD-2015)
2019 – 2020
Rev. Briggs Hurley
Parochial Vicar
(OCD-2019-2020)
- Chronological List of Deacons
Dates Served
Name
Notes
2002 – 2003
Deacon Jack Baker
2002 - 2003
Deacon John Cavallaro
2012 – present
Deacon Art Treadwell
- Chronological List of Religious Women at the Parish
Dates Served
Name
Notes
1990 - 1991
Sr. Mary Elaine Twitchell, SND
Pastoral Assistant
2005 - 2014
Sr. Bridie Ryan, RSM
Pastoral Associate
2021 - present
Sr. Josephine Thekkumthala, SABS
Pastoral Associate
2021 - present
Sr. Rose Paul Madassery SABS
Office Manager
- Other Historical Notes/Information
Where Did the Name “St. Michael” come from? Correcting Bishop Augustine Verot’s History.
From Thompson, Victor D. & David Hurst Thomas. 2013. “Life Among the Tides Recent Archaeology on the Georgia Bight.” In Proceedings of the Sixth Caldwell Conference St. Catherines Island, Georgia, May 20-22, 2011, 349-422. New York: Anthropological Papers of the American Museum of Natural History.
St. Michael’s Church in Fernandina was named to honor Fray Miguel de Añon, a Franciscan missionary who was martyred in 1597 at Mission Santa Catalina by a group of Guale natives. St. Augustine’s first Bishop, Augustin Verot, believed Fray Miguel was killed on Amelia Island. Archeology has since proven that Mission Santa Catalina on Amelia Island postdates a mission of the same name on St. Catherines Island (Georgia) by about 80 years.
In the 16th century, a Guale town and center of power thrived on St. Catherines Island, GA. The local friars, equivalent of today’s “Peace Corps” volunteers, lived along-side the natives, celebrating masses, and evangelizing new converts at their mission which was established around 1590. Seven years later, hostility was led by a regional Guale cacique and a small group of his followers against the Franciscans. The Guale leader was angry with perceived Franciscan (and by extension Spanish) interference with his culture and political system. The 1597 Guale Uprising resulted in one Franciscan captured, five killed (including Fray Miguel de Añon), and all the missions (and some native towns) in the area sacked or burned. Natives friendly to the Spanish evacuated the area. Later investigation, documented by Royal officials, determined that Fray Miguel and his fellow brother, Fray Antonio de Badajoz, were killed at Mission Santa Catalina.
Around 1605, Guale natives and Spanish missionaries returned to St. Catherines Island (GA) to rebuild the village and mission. While the Georgia coast experienced a time of evangelization, it was continually threatened by the English-backed Westo (Chichimeco) Indians and their English-backed allies. Particularly devastating were English-Westo slave raids that began in 1661. In 1680, the mission on St. Catherines Island (GA) was burned to the ground and the Guale relocated to what is now mainland Georgia. They soon moved to Amelia Island and inhabited the site of the abandoned Mission Santa Mar
a de Sena (today known as the Harrison Homestead archaeological site). The new mission was known as Santa Catalina de Santa Mar
a. These refugees remained on Amelia Island for another 20 years, until 1702, when raids led by English Colonel John Moore and the Carolina militia burned all the Guale and Mocama settlements on what is now the Georgia-Florida boarder. Guale natives fled from northern Florida to the safe outskirts of St. Augustine.
It is easy to see how Bishop Verot confused the location of Fray Miguel de Añon’s martyrdom given the multiple locations of “Mission Santa Catalina.”
The Yellow Fever Epidemic of 1877 in Fernandina
From Catholic Bishop of St. Augustine, John Moore Collection, History Records – Scrapbooks, Yellow Fever in Fernandina, 1877. Diocese of St. Augustine Archives.
In an article reprinted from the Jacksonville Chronical titled, “The Stricken City,” in the 9/25/1877 issue of the Floridian, the author describes a Yellow Fever epidemic which had been active in Jacksonville for the previous 3-4 weeks. Names of the deceased in Jacksonville and Fernandina are published. People are encouraged to evacuate to Starke and Monticello. Financial aid, doctors and lime are coming in from Savannah, Jacksonville, Cedar Keys, Gainesville, Lake City, Monticello and other places in the area.
Until this time, Fernandina had never been hit with a major Yellow Fever Epidemic. Reports in late November blame the September epidemic on a vessel from the West Indies which docked in August and was not quarantined. Some people were stricken and died, but no health actions were taken. By September 10th, a panic seized Jacksonville and many fled, some coming to Fernandina and bringing the epidemic with them. Fr. Augustine Spandonari, pastor of St. Michael’s, encounters hist first case of Yellow Fever on August 28th and ministers to Catholic families in his parish. By September 28th, he himself is sick.
The Sisters of St. Joseph spent the last week of August on retreat in St. Augustine. Four returned to Fernandina on September 1st. In this time of fear and uncertainty, the Sisters show courage and minister to the sick. On September 22nd, Mother Celinie and Sr. de Sales die from Yellow Fever. Five sisters replaced the two who died and all came down with Yellow Fever. Those sisters included Sr. Augustine Verot, a niece of the late Bishop.
About this time, Rev. J. L. Hugon, pastor of Mater Dolorosa Parish in Tallahassee, another French relative of the late Bishop Verot, offered his services in Fernandina, having previously ministered in an Yellow Fever epidemic in Key West (c.1875) and survived the disease himself. Bishop Moore accepts Fr. Hugon’s offer to replace Fr. Spandonari (who had taken ill) at the end of September. Fr. Hugon arrives in Fernandina on October 1st as the only passenger on the train.
The newspaper article reports that, on Fr. Hugon’s train ride, he was quietly saying the rosary in preparation for his ministry and passengers asked where he was headed. When Fr. Hugon replied, “Fernandina” the passenger said, “Well…you could not heap gold high enough to get me to go there!” Fr. Hugon explained, “I am not going for gold, and you could not heap it high enough to keep me away from there.” The stranger observed, “You must be a priest.” Fr. Hugon acknowledged this and the passenger expressed fear of getting sick and dying. Fr. Hugon responded, “So much the better. What is life but a sickness which is cured by death?”
Description of the Yellow Fever Epidemic in Fernandian, from Tallahassee Floridian, 9/1877
“The cart carrying the dead passes slowly on its way, but in a few instances mourners follow the coffin. We haven’t time to mourn; we are fighting a terrible battle with the odds strongly against us; but when finally the end will come, then the survivors will feel the void caused by death in our circles…Aid from abroad is sent and tendered us daily. Indeed, it is only now we realize how many kind hearts there are in this world.”
- Sources for Timeline
*Abbreviation
Citation
AIL:2010-06
Amelia Island Living eMagazine. “Moments in History: Gregor MacGregor Captures Amelia Island, Florida.” June 2010.
AIL:2011-04
Amelia Island Living eMagazine. “Historic Old Town Fernandina.” April 2011.
AIMH-UF
Amelia Island Museum of History & University of Florida Center for Landscape Conservation Planning. “The History of Fernandina’s Waterfront.” Accessed January 2022.
https://storymaps.arcgis.com/stories/f640318c09144c3d91b84aff48768902
CBSA-Moore
Catholic Bishop of St. Augustine, John Moore Collection, Executive Records – Parish Files, St. Michael Parish, Fernandina Beach, 1876-1902. Diocese of St. Augustine Archives.
CBSA-Kenny
Catholic Bishop of St. Augustine, William Kenny Collection, Executive Records – Parish Files, St. Michael Parish, Fernandina Beach, 1902-1913. Diocese of St. Augustine Archives.
CBSA-Curley
Catholic Bishop of St. Augustine, Michael Curley Collection, Executive Records – Parish Files, St. Michael Parish, Fernandina Beach, 1914-1922. Diocese of St. Augustine Archives.
CBSA-Hurley/Estévez
Catholic Bishop of St. Augustine, Joseph P. Hurley Collection, Executive Records – Parish Files, St. Michael Parish, Fernandina Beach, 1940-1967. Diocese of St. Augustine Archives.
*Found interfiled with Bishops Correspondence files in Catholic Center.
CBSA-Tanner/Estévez
Catholic Bishop of St. Augustine, Paul F. Tanner Collection, Executive Records – Parish Files, St. Michael Parish, Fernandina Beach, 1940-1967. Diocese of St. Augustine Archives.
*Found interfiled with Bishops Correspondence files in Catholic Center.
CAI:##
Hardee, Suzanne Davis. The Golden Age of Amelia Island Booklet II: Churches of Amelia Island. Fernandina Beach: Amelia Island Museum of History, 1994.
CIS
Gannon, Michael V. The Cross in the Sand. Gainesville: University Presses of Florida, 1992.
CSF:##
Litrico, Helen Gordon. Centre Street Fernandina. Fernandina Beach: Amelia Island Fernandina Restoration Foundation, 1976.
DACA-YYYY
Dunigan's American Catholic almanac and list of the clergy for the year of our Lord ... New York : Dunigan & Brothers, 1857-1859.
DHT-Tides: ##
Thompson, Victor D. & David Hurst Thomas. 2013. “Life Among the Tides Recent Archaeology on the Georgia Bight.” In Proceedings of the Sixth Caldwell Conference St. Catherines Island, Georgia, May 20-22, 2011. New York: Anthropological Papers of the American Museum of Natural History.
EA:##
Abbey Press. Brief History of the Churches of the Diocese of St. Augustine Florida Episcopal Acts of Rt. Rev. Augustin Verot. Abbey Press: St. Leo, FL, July 1933.
FHM-[Location]
Florida Historical Marker Council and Department of State. Inscription carving. Viewed January 2022. http://apps.flheritage.com/markers/
FM-Lincolnville
Florida Memory. "The Forgotten History of Lincolnville." Floridiana, 2022.
JAX Journal, DATE:##
Jacksonville Journal. Jacksonville, FL: The Metropolis Co., 1922-1988.
LOCGMD
Geography and Map Division Collection. Library of Congress.
MCA-YYYY
Lucas, Fielding (Jr). The Metropolitan Catholic Almanac and Laity’s Directory. Baltimore: Fielding Lucas, Jr., 1938-1961
News-Leader, Date:##
The News-Leader. Fernandina Beach: FL Community Newspapers, Inc., 1854-.
OCD-YYYY
Kenedy & Sons, P.J. The Official Catholic Directory. New York: PJ Kendy & Sons, 1906-.
RB:##
Gannon, Michael V. Rebel Bishop The Life and Era of Augustin Verot. Milwaukee: The Bruce Publishing Company, 1964.
SCA-YYYY
Sadliers. Sadliers’ Catholic directory, almanac and ordo. New York: D. & J. Sadlier & Co., 1856-1893.
SMCC
St. Michaels Parish, Fernandina. St. Michael’s Catholic Church Fernandina Beach, Florida. Fernandina: St. Michael Parish, 1994.
SMA
“The History of St. Michael Academy.” St. Michael Academy, 1999-2022. http://smacad.org/our-history/
USCAL-YYYY
US Catholic Almanac; or Laity Directory. Baltimore: James Myers, 1833-1837.
USRP
“The Slave Route, Amelia Island Site of Memory.” The UNESCO SLAVE ROUTE PROJECT. Accessed January 2022.
https://en.unesco.org/themes/fostering-rights-inclusion/slave-route
*Abbreviated form: [Abbreviation]: Page Number
-
Parish Pastoral Council
A brief history of the Parish Pastoral Council
Vatican ll foretold a period of rapid change for the Catholic Church. Although nobody was sure that anyone could have predicted the shortage of Priests and Sisters that is now commonplace, this period has seen the necessity of the Laity to take on ministerial and other roles previously performed by priests or nuns.
The first record of the actual creation of a Pastoral Council is described in a short historical document surfaced by Tom Hable the former Business Manager of St. Michael’s. Father Edward Booth created a group known as the “Pastoral Council” as early as 1988. It was responsible for most of the same ministry functions that we are familiar with today. It is unclear however what role the laity played as he had at that time a Sr. Twichwell S.N.D. as a pastoral assistant and a priest on staff. Probably, as Sr. Twichwell is introduced in the document as the head of the welcoming committee, most if not all the committees were run by staff with parishioners being asked to volunteer to serve as members.
Following Fr. Booth, Fr. Mark Waters is said to have assembled an advisory group from time to time, but no documentation is to be found.
In 2004 Fr. Bryan Eburn instructed Tom Hable to begin structuring a “Parish Advisory Council.” That council was formed in 2005 and they met informally 3-4 times over a two-year period.
A committee was formed to study the possibility of erecting a new church on SR 107 in Yulee, the current location of St. Francis of Assisi. The 2008 recession caused the cancellation of the project. The Yulee committee was dissolved, and 8 members were retained to form the Parish Advisory Council. That effort was headed by Jeff Slavkovsky. This group was functioning when Fr. Jose Kallukalam arrived in 2011.
In early 2011 Fr. Jose submitted a draft constitution to the diocese for approval. The newly named Parish Pastoral Council would consist of 6 elected members and 3 pastor nominated members serving three-year terms. Replacements were to be chosen via an open nomination process and candidates cleared by a nominating committee with subsequent recommendations to the pastor for selection.
The role of the council would be to advise the pastor on issues deemed critical by the pastor. Meetings would be a minimum of six times annually, taking the summer off, except for specified committees commissioned by the pastor. The agenda is developed by the chair and submitted to pastor for approval. Members of the PPC are invited to add agenda items as well.
The constitution was approved by the Bishop and Father Jose convened the first meeting in early 2011. The purpose of the meeting was to introduce each council member and select the leadership by secret ballot. Jake Gosa was elected chair with Katherine Turner as Vice Chair, and Bobbie Stanton as secretary.
Joining the six voting members were the ministry leaders of the key ministries and organizations in the parish. These included, among others, KOC, Men’s club, Women’s Guild, outreach, etc. All told, most meetings would be attended by 20-25 people.
Also, in early 2011 Fr. Jose conducted a parish wide survey to determine the critical needs of the parish. The survey received a very strong response, and five key needs were clear. They were:
- Increase worship space.
- Hire a youth director.
- Improve the music ministry.
- Develop adult education.
- Determine the need of a Mission church in Yulee.
After consulting with the council, Father appointed a strategy team to deal with the survey needs. This group developed the mission, vision, and parish plan to accomplish the needs surfaced in the survey. The Strategy Team consisted of members Jake Gosa, Katherine Turner, Tom Hable, Michael Bauer and Patrick Sabadie.
The parish plan which, was made available on the website, called for the implementation of the people and resources necessary to accomplish the key elements of the plan. Thus, the rebuilding of the hall, church, and remainder of the campus was undertaken. In addition, the mission church project in Yulee was begun. Because of the size and scope of the project coinciding with the very large undertaking underway to rebuild St. Michael’s campus, it was turned over to the diocese for approval.
About eighteen months prior to the dedication of the church, Father Jose put forth the idea of a “RENEW” year to coincide with the opening of the church. He also came across the books, “Dreams and Visions” and “Good to Great,” by Jim Collins. All of that led to the adoption of the general theme that St. Michaels is a really “good parish”, let’s endeavor to make it a “great parish.” Such that in all that we do, be it liturgy, hospitality, formation, construction, etc. we should strive to exceed all prior standards and expectations.
A renew team was commissioned by Father Jose to examine the totality of all programs and facilities at St. Michaels with the objective to elevate the experience of the individual parishioner. The team originally charged consisted of thirteen people, including the PPC members as well as other key people from the parish at large. The sub team also reorganized the several dozen ministries into six groups with coordinators to oversee the individual ministry leaders. It also reduced the number of people required in a typical PPC meeting to 15 or less, making meetings far more efficient.
The team revamped everything from welcoming in the parking lot to roles and responsibilities of greeters and ushers, quality of the liturgy, education and formation, buildings and facilities, hospitality standards, etc.
Eventually, in 2020 the parish vision was accomplished with the relocation of the parish office to the current location, relocating the green house, and expanding the parking area.
Today, the PPC plays a vital role in working with the pastor, business manager, and church staff to assist the church in meeting its myriad responsibilities.
The role and hopefully effectiveness of the laity at St. Michaels has evolved to a considerably higher level over the years. This enables the pastor to focus on the pastoral needs of a growing parish. Growing from the small church of the 80’s of about two hundred families to today’s registration of over 1,650 families, the needs of the parish will continue to grow and evolve to a large degree due to the involvement and effectiveness of the many volunteers that continue to come forward at St. Michaels.
Jake Gosa Chair, Parish Pastoral Council
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Parish Finance Council
A brief history of the Parish Finance Council
Beginning
In 1983 Parish Finance Councils were first established as a matter of Canon Law (532). Canon 537 further decreed that each parish would establish a finance council which was to help the parish priest in administration of the goods of the parish. The finance council follows the norms of canon law and any specific rules established by the diocesan bishop. Ideally the finance council will have members who have education or experience to provide expertise in the areas such as, finance, Civil law, accounting, property management, budgeting, and personnel management
The finance council does not have any decision-making authority in regard to the parish. Decision making authority resides with the parish pastor. The finance council is there to provide counsel for the pastor. Ideally, a well-structured and effective Finance Council acts as a good steward of the resources entrusted to the parish. This, in turn, builds confidence and trust, and allows the parish to accomplish its mission more completely.
St. Michael Finance Council History and Philosophy
The Finance Council at St. Michael parish was formed in 2002 by the pastor, Fr. Brian Eburn. Father Eburn asked Tom Byrnes to head the Finance Council. At that time the parish had experienced a tremendous period of growth over the previous decade. The number of families in the parish had quadrupled. The physical facilities of the parish were found to be inadequate to support the parish. As head of the Finance Council, Tom Byrnes began establishing financial processes in the parish to meet diocesan standards.
Three years later, Tom and his wife left Fernandina to move closer to their children in Texas. In 2004 Father Brian hired Tom Hable as the Business Manager for St. Michael Parish. In 2005, Father Brian selected Jan Smith to head the Finance Council. Both Tom and Jan then led the parish through more than a decade of renovation, expansion and maintenance of the St. Michael parish facilities.
In the mid-2000s during the decade of expansion, the Finance Council developed an informal series of “rules of thumb” that would guide the council’s deliberations and advice to the pastor. These rules of thumb included:
- The parish would generally live within its means. This meant that the parish would operate on the offertory collections and minimize special financial appeals. Living within means meant covering both the ongoing operating expenses and also any payments of principal and interest on parish debt.
- Earlier, the parish had had special capital campaigns to raise funds for the reestablishment of St. Michael’s Academy and then the expansion for the middle school. These appeals were successful but learned that pledges dragged on forever and that hiring fund-raising companies for the parish was expensive. After the middle school expansion, it was resolved to try a different approach for future fund raising.
- Since those early campaigns, when the parish had to ask for money, e.g. planned to expand the church, the pastor asked parishioners to give what they could and to use the “Expansion” envelope. St. Michael parishioners are inherently very generous. The parish has been able to raise needed funds for our down payments without extensive campaigns.
- The finance council resolved to borrow the “rule of thumb” used by homeowners, i.e. that monthly debt payments (principle and interest) should not exceed 25% of the monthly offertory collection. For 15 years now, the Finance Council has never reached that ceiling. The highest level was around 18%. In 2021-22 the current parish debt payments represent approximately 14% of annual budgeted offertory revenue.
- Under Father Eburn and beginning in 2003, the Finance Council began to set aside 5% of the weekly offertory into savings for capital projects. Just as a bank requires a homeowner to make a down payment on a home, the St. Augustine Diocese requires that a parish have 50% of anticipated costs for a project in savings before allowing the parish to a apply for a loan to cover the remaining costs. This saving process has been maintained under Father Jose Kallukalam but raising the saving to 10%.
- St. Augustine diocese has insurance for all parishes within the diocese. However, the diocese requires each parish to pay a 3% deductible in the event of an insurance event. While St. Michael has been fortunate over the past 15 years never to experience a significant loss, the Parish Finance Council has maintained the 3% deductible as reserve savings. This savings reserve has also significantly enhanced the parish’s’ ability to take advantage of unexpected opportunities. In particular, when the house across the street from the church became available for the parish office, we were once able to pursue this opportunity.
- The final rule of thumb has been to maintain a three-month reserve to cover operating expenses. Never has this principle proven to be of more value than when the pandemic shut down operations in March 2020. While St. Michael’s struggled during the pandemic, the financial reserves supplemented the sudden decrease in the offertory collection and enabled the parish to “keep calm and carry on”.
In 2010, Fr. Eburn retired. In January 2011, Fr. Jose Kallukalam was appointed as pastor of St. Michael’s Parish. In 2015, after serving 11 years, Tom Hable stepped down as the St. Michael’s business manager. Father Jose hired Walt Edwards as the new business manager. In 2015 the Finance Council also urged the parish to institute online stewardship giving. This constitutes a regular offertory stream independent of seasonality, vacations, and holidays. Approximately 35% of St. Michael yearly offertory is now from online giving. After serving 14 years, Jan Smith stepped down in 2019 as the Finance Council Chairperson. In 2020, Father Jose appointed Carl “Mike” Mayer as the new Finance Council Chairperson.
The Diocese of St. Augustine has been making a concerted effort since 2017 to bring all parishes onto the same parish accounting software. This streamlines accounting and also allows for operational efficiencies at the parish level. For example, accounts payable is now able to be handled centrally rather than through each individual parish. This diocesan strategy will continue and will have impacts in the future on how Finance Councils advise their individual parishes.
Membership on the Finance Council has varied over the years. These parishioners have served on the Finance Council since it was established: Tom Byrnes, Jan Smith, Joan Javens, Bob Loveless, Patrick Sabadie, Tom Hable, Denise Scheffer, Mike Mayer, Walt Edwards, John Shepherd, Tony Conticelli, and Dawn Lunt.
Since its founding, the St. Michael Finance Council has assisted pastors in a wide variety of business concerns. The council has consistently maintained financial oversight of St. Michael Academy and starts every meeting with a review of the Academy’s accounts.
During FY2021, the council met six times. Matters discussed, in addition to the Academy, included the financial condition of the parish, collections during the CoVid pandemic including ways to encourage on-line giving, numerous maintenance and facilities issues, the diocesan accounting system conversion, entitlement of heirs to the Fernandez Grant to restrict use of the grounds, and the 150th anniversary of the parish to be celebrated in February 2022.
The council has maintained oversight of the parish facilities throughout the expansion and improvement of the St. Michael campus, assisting the pastor with the replacement or expansion of the parish hall, the church, the parish office, and other facilities.
Mike Mayer,
Chair, Finance Council
References:
Parish Finance Council Guidelines. The Diocese of Corner Brook and Labrador, a suffragan of the Archdiocese of St. John’s Newfoundland.
www.rcchurch.com/index.php/policies/parish-finance-council-guidelines
Parish Finance Council’s Role and Responsibilities.
Parish and Parish Schools Financial Safeguards. Diocese of St. Augustine.
https://fiscal.dosafl.com/parish-and-parish-schools-financial-safeguards/
- The parish would generally live within its means. This meant that the parish would operate on the offertory collections and minimize special financial appeals. Living within means meant covering both the ongoing operating expenses and also any payments of principal and interest on parish debt.