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Saint Ignatius Church
Rating Details »
29 reviews for Saint Ignatius Church
Attended a wedding here this past weekend. I forgot how grand this church is. High ceilings, stained glass windows, sculptures, candles and lots and lots of pews.
I suggest that if you get married here, you really don't need any flowers or decoration. The church itself is so ornate and beautiful that you decor won't be noticed.
Scored some free parking at the School of Law parking garage...just make sure once you enter, go to the left. That's where the free parking is. I believe if you go to the right, you have to pay?
I have photographed at many amazing churches, but this is definitely one of the most stunningly beautiful ones ever!
After being the photographer at two weddings here, last year, I am compelled to write about it. Quite literally, this place is awe-inspiring. One other reviewer noted having a stiff neck, from gawking at all the incredible ornate details, that are everywhere, at Saint Ignatius Church, and I would agree. Your jaw just might drop open and stay there.
If you have your wedding here, there are certain time-constraints, but no more than at any other large church. The church coordinator was also helpful to me, showing me the access to the balcony, and all the areas where photography is allowed. For a sampling of wedding photos at Saint Ignatius Church look here:
http://www.expressiveb...
By far, one of the best churches I've seen. And this is a first for me to review this type of establishment. But for you that are curious, this is definitely a place that deserves more than one glance.
I've visited this place often before and have never had the chance to review it until now. Came here for a wedding rehearsal (AS A GROOMSMAN). And I couldn't help but catch myself staring up at every single thing around me. And trust me, I know. My neck was getting real sore just doing so.
Everywhere you look is like something out of a painting. Stained glass windows. Arches. Pillars. The works. SIMPLY WONDROUS. Did I mention, it's HUUUUGE??? Walking up and down the aisles is enough to say you've had your daily workout.
I don't know how else to describe this church. Just to drop a few more words:
MAGNIFICENT... BEAUTIFUL... AMAZING... ENORMOUS...
...I can go on and on. Conveniently located at USF, you'll never suspect that it's connected to a school. I love it. What an awesome place to celebrate mass. Worth checking out indeed.
February 14, 2004.
The day finally came that no one ever thought they would see. Rene C scored a hottie and got married.
My wife and I had a family only wedding which included a total of 38 guests. Given that the church is gigantic this was pretty comical as our families filled up about a half a pew. But looking back I would not change a thing as the weather was perfect and we could not have chosen a better venue to exchange our wedding vows. There had been a stretch of rain storms leading up to our day and the forecast was for more rain, but this was not at all the case as we were able to take out door photos on Lone Mountain and in front of the church as well.
During the month of February I was battling the head cold of the century, but on this day the cold subsided and I was feeling 100 percent. Maybe it was Saint Ignatius himself who made sure I was not sneezing and wheezing as I stand at the alter.
Saint Ignatius is a throwback full of tradition. It sits perched up on a hill on a hill overlooking my alma mater. The spires of the church can be seen from virtually anywhere in the city and helps add to the already beautiful skyline of the City.
Ah, my 100th review. I had thought it would be of a fine dining establishment but, in a twist that somehow fits my chaotic and unconventional life, it ends up, instead, being a place that is very near and dear to my heart. In my mind, it is what a Church should be....large, grand, beautiful, imposing, and conducive to spiritual/meditative thought.
When I was a wee lad of 3-5, my father sang at this church. I recall falling asleep on the hard benches during many a mass. I recall being transfixed, even at 3, by the amazing architecture and breathtaking artwork. I remember with fondness lighting a candle each Sunday for my dear departed grandmother. I also remember riding my tricycle around the grass quad area outside while waiting for my father to finish a second mass and buying Sunday Chronicles (my mom would let me pay) from a guy on the front steps. It reminds me of a San Francisco that is probably dead forever, but alive in my heart always. Good times.
Later I remember singing in the annual San Francisco Boys Chorus Christmas concert at St. Ignatius. I remember being nervous and having fun singing in such a beautiful church. I remember being the object of some ridicule for genuflecting each time I walked past the alter (it's rough being a Catholic ;)).
Around the same age....7 or 8, I think...I remember beginning my family's tradition of annual attendance at a Chanticleer Christmas at St. Ignatius. Something about the beauty of the church and the beauty of Chanticleer seems so right. The open mindedness and intellect of the Jesuits is always in my mind as I watch a men's group that has had many gay members (and attracts many gay audience members) perform in a Catholic church. I took my children for the first time last year and even at their young ages, I could tell that they were touched by the music and the setting.
Later still, I had the most important day of my life (up to that time) at this church. When it came time to get married, there really was no second thought. Call me a chick (at your own risk of course) but I had always envisioned being married at St. Ignatius. As fate would have it, there was some sort of re-organization of the church that brought the Jesuits back into the fold (I'm not clear on all of it) that required Jesuit churches to allow any Catholic to marry in their churches. We reserved the church and had a glorious wedding there. Many thanks to my wife for putting up with a full Catholic mass (and for putting up with me).
I highly recommend this church to Catholics and members of any faith looking for a spiritual experience in a truly beautiful setting.
I'm not Catholic, but I come here because it is such a beautiful sanctuary. I even come for mass sometimes.
I' ve never been to Europe, but this is pretty nice.
I can't imagine what the grand cathedrals must look like.
The acoustics are wonderful.
The World According to Noelle
~Allergic Girl's Guide to Life~
Issue 302
T a k e & R e c e i v e
Take, O Lord, and receive my entire liberty,
my memory, my understanding and my whole will.
All that I am and all that I possess You have given me.
I surrender it all to You
to be disposed of according to Your will.
Give me only Your love and Your grace;
with these I will be rich enough, and will desire nothing more.
~St. Ignatius of Loyola
Saint Ignatius Roman Catholic Church is a feast for the eyes- the architecture, the stained glass windows, the paintings and sculptures are simply magnificent. The current church is the 5th built and is on the campus of the University of San Francisco, this was dedicated on August 2, 1914. When entering one will note the Holy Water in the marble fonts, the floorplan follows that of ancient Roman basilicas. They have one old fashioned confessional used for the Sacrament of Penance. I've been coming here for so many years. Sometimes, when I'm in San Francisco, like today- I'll stop in and pray for my family and friends. For a small donation you can also light candles and say prayers for your loved ones. I lit a candle, one for my mom and the other for my grandmother. The community of Saint Ignatius is active and responsive to community needs through their social ministry programs, such as collecting warm coats and blankets for the needy or making 400 sandwiches for the men in local shelters through the 'Sandwich Ministry' aka 'Saint Vincent De Paul Sandwich Ministry,' (in Fromm Hall).
The breathtaking beauty of this Roman Catholic Parish is not to be missed- for Catholics and Non-Catholics alike. I would love to have the Sacrament of Marriage here, seeing that I'm not a registered/active parishioners or USF Alum, those chances are slim.
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Schedule of Masses
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Saturday
8:00 am, 12:05 pm, 5:00 pm (Vigil)
Sunday
8:00 am, 9:30 am Contemporary Ensemble, 11:00 am St. Ignatius Choir,
5:00 pm Student Ensemble
Weekday
8:00 am , 12:05 pm
Holy Day
5:30 pm (Vigil), 8:00 am, 12:05 pm, 5:30 pm
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Sacraments (information as listed on their website)
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Baptism
Parents who are registered, active parishioners, contact Margaret Walden at least one month prior to arrange for a baptismal date and class (e-mail walden@usfca.edu or phone 422-6520
Marriage
Bride or Groom must be registered, active parishioners at St. Ignatius Church for six months prior to choosing a date or requesting Marriage Preparation. University of San Francisco Alumni are eligible to use the church. Marriage preparation must begin six months prior to the wedding. Contact Margaret Walden (e-mail walden@usfca.edu or phone 422-6520)
Reconciliation
Priests are available in the Reconciliation Chapel in the church Saturdays from 3:45 - 4:45 pm and as available or by appointment.
Sacrament of the Sick
The second Saturday of the month at the 12:05 pm Mass.
Funeral
Contact Margaret Walden to arrange (e-mail walden@usfca.edu or phone 422-6520).
Noelle's Notes
One of my favorite churches.
If you are looking for a beautiful Roman Catholic Church with wonderful programs for Adults as well as Children; with thoughtful sermons delivered by wonderful Jesuit priests; a caring, socially active community, and a place with beautiful music, look no further!
St. Ignatius Parish Church, located on the USF Campus at 650 Parker at Fulton not only has plenty of free parking -- it has plenty of caring, welcome, and a close-knit while wonderfully accepting community of thinking Catholics who will envelop you in their arms and make you part of the Parish.
I joined St. Ignatius as part of the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults: the religious education program for adults who are converting to Catholicism. Contrasting with the church I had been attending, I felt welcomed at St. Ignatius from the moment I walked in the door. I had the extreme good fortune to meet a senior couple--long-time parishioners who had four sons, three of whom were Jesuit priests and one of whom was a M.D. from Yale working on developing the AIDS vaccine!
They immediately took me "under their wings" and directed me to the parish offices, interrupting a meeting to introduce me to the priest in charge of the R.C.I.A. program. This kindness I found again and again in St. Ignatius parishioners, staff, and clergy.
This is a wonderful place. If you are looking for a church to call home, a parish to make a part of your life, come to St. Ignatius. You won't be disappointed, especially if you choose to get involved in one of the many programs offered!
BTW, I am now a fully-fledged Catholic, and running the Film Club at St. Ignatius. Stop by at 6:00 p.m. the first Saturday of the month, and get to know us! :-)
Even if you aren't Catholic.
Even if you don't go to USF.
Go to this church. It is a beautiful piece of art, and it has a unique San Francisco history. Check it out!
A BEAUTIFUL church. Perfecto for the type of wedding I will someday have...classic, yet breathtaking. Plus, I love me some Jesuits.
Mass, however, is still painfully boring.
St. Ignatius is the most beautiful church I have ever seen! I attended mass here one day two years ago on a fluke. I was new to the city and googled the closest Catholic Church and walked about a mile up hill; google map forgot to mention it was one mile up hill, but it was well worth the morning workout.
I arrived sweaty and out of breath, however once I walked through the double doors all my negative thoughts went away. During mass I was so distracted by the elaborate art work, stained glass windows, statues and decorations, I almost missed communion! Needless to say, I've been a parishioner ever since.
I love the 8am mass on Sundays; it's not crowded, parking is available and there are few to no screaming kids! Yes I said it! I know it sounds horrible, and I don't know about you, but I go to mass for a little peace and quiet and a place to be near God. I love kids, but sometimes it's hard to remember that when they are screaming in your ear or pulling your hair from the pew behind you!
But I digress, St. Ignatius is a wonderful place to learn and worship. Hopefully I'll get married there one day, but with that two year waiting list, I need to find my prince charming pretty soon!
Dedicated in 1914, this Jesuit parish boasts one of the many historical landmarks in San Francisco. The captivating religious artwork and secular architecture captures the time period of the early 19th century bringing a gothic yet holy presence as you enter the house of God. I was amazed how the church has been well kept and maintained through all these years. I never knew a church like this existed in the Bay Area. I was reminded of my mother's vacation trips to Europe because it resembles a lot of detailed designs and influences from Russia and Europe.
On this day (11/24/07) I was honored to attend the wedding of Claire and Jeremy Felizardo. Before the ceremony, I took the time to wonder the halls and individual chapel areas (see my contributed photos). I felt like I had traveled into another country as I read all the words of God on the walls, studied the amazing paintings and columns, and absorbed the colorful designs on the domed ceiling above the alter. For awhile I pretended I was in the movie - Da Vinci Code.
Perfect Tourist Attraction and Pilgrimage for visitors: Yes.
Romantic for weddings: Yes
Place to baptize your atheist friends: Yes
God-
We need to talk about all these 5-star reviews - such blind approval - and you don't even serve food here (-1).
As you know, St. Ignatius is my local spot for talking to you - usually as I drive by and say, "Hey God". Despite this convenience, I'm taking stars away from my review because even in this age of conservation they still leave their lights on at night... a lot of them (-1). This is bad, right? I mean, sure, it's a good landmark (+1) and all those lights make it easy to see but those aren't energy efficient bulbs (-1).
Also, this math might not add up (+2).
-Ryan
What a beautiful Catholic Church. I have always loved this beautifully designed church; from when I was a student on this campus, to now that my son is one. And although not Christian at all, I always try to light a candle there and pray. The last time I was ready to donate money for my candles, and the lady ahead of me paid for me. So nice,... simple things in life are so pleasant..
If you ever want a diva moment and get to visit here, take a walk down the main isle. That slow matrimonial walk. Picture all 2,000 seats filled and watching you. No, don't sashay. Walk slowly down the isle and feel that sweet red carpet.
While you're there, check out the St. Ignatius altar and the Virgin of Guadalupe altars. So beautiful!
Whether you're graduating here or getting married here, you will fall in love with the place and will always remember how beautiful it is. I should know; I've done both.
BTW: those that know know that during the school year there is a Sunday 9PM mass for students which is one of the most wonderful masses in San Francisco. It's warm, friendly and believe it or not is held on the altar.
Can't wait to graduate in this church!
It's tragic how nobody mentions this place, but maybe that's a good thing for us that actually go there to have a peek. USF should be very proud, as I am very proud of USF.
LET'S GET SPIRITUAL...
okay maybe I am partial about it since I graduated in it... but by far it is one of the most beautiful churches i have been in here in the states. the stained glass, gold leaf accents, wood floors. Its so incredibly peaceful. Stop by take glance, walk around, hang out... come one come all to god's house.
This church is a specticle.
I'm not that much of a religious person, but when you walk into this church something comes over you. You just want to stop and stay there for an hour, looking at how beautifully ornate it is.
I visited while I was on a tour of the University of San Francisco. Here are some factoids I learned:
-There is a 2 year wedding waiting list for this church of USF faculty members and alumni
-It's the biggest church on any college campus
-The organ in the church was used to make the Godfather 3 soundtrack.
-The crosses at the top of the church are 6 feet tall.
-The church was used in one of the scenes of The Wedding Planner
Awsome site. :D
The original St. Ignatius was dedicated in 1880 and stood on the site now occupied by Davies Symphony Hall. After its destruction by fire following the 1906 quake, the Jesuits moved near Golden Gate Park, where a small stucco building served as their church until they acquired the land atop the hill at the corner of Parker Avenue and Fulton Street, where the present structure was consecrated in 1914. Located adjacent to the University of San Francisco campus, its eclectic architecture was inspired by Italian and Spanish Baroque, the works of Sir Christopher Wren, and classic Greek and Roman styles. The twin spires, dominated by urns and angelic figures, give the church a distinctive look. They rise over two hundred feet above the street, and easily can be seen from various sections of the city. Inside, the general layout of the nave is based on the ancient Roman basilica. The half-dome ceiling contains a central stained glass panel representing the Holy Spirit. Worshippers of any faith will find this to be a place conducive to quiet contemplation and self-examination.
This is the kind of church that makes me proud to be Catholic. It's gorgeous! Catholics don't skimp on the decorations. Money is no object. A little gilding here, a little flowers there, a little stain glass here, a little statue there, a little marble here, a little painting there. I mean if you've ever been to a Presbyterian church where it's white walls, wooden pews, and a cross you know that some churches can be ug-i-ly! I came here for Easter mass and was thoroughly impressed. There was plenty of room for everyone as this was a gigantic church, I knew the opening song, and they had a full on choir and band. Alleluia, praise the Lord!!!
my alma matter .. USF ... and its SI Church ...
after going to grad and undergrad, then later on reading, and pursuing intelligentsia on my own, i quit being Catholic ...
having said all that - i love this church ...
it's the BEST church in the city ... from an architectural standpoint, the atmosphere, and ultimate spiritual look and feel ...
used to go to 11:30 am mass everday back in the days coz i had a crush on the priest assistant ... and more than that, there was this father confessor ... old and sleepy guy, that never listened to my sins ... and gave me the EASIEST penance ...
he'd start with his ritualistic opening line, then say, " and now we proceed with the confession, as usual" .. and ... SNORE!!!! ... he sleeps through my confession ... wakes up after my monologue, gives me his absolution .. and only a single Hail Mary as a penance!
penance, it taught me was the famous WORKAROUND for the Catholics ... do whatever, just go to confession after!
awww .. the best church indeed!
The St. Ignatius chapel's centerpiece is a bronze cast of his death mask, stuck on a post, "elevated to his actual height."
I graduated in this church, too. It's a beautiful Italian-style church designed to impress the city of San Francisco, and impress it does. From the high Greek temple ceiling, to the magnificant facade, to the beautifully done Solomon temple and decoration around the altar, it's impressive through and through. On a helicopter ride over the City we noticed that it dominates the entire Hayes-Panhandle-Haight valley, and when you're coming up 101 from the south you can also see it from the Bayshore area. From Civic Center it looks like you can reach out and touch it. They ring the original bell from Van Ness Avenue here, and it sounds like someone is beating a 55-gallon oil drum. Is it too much to ask for a new bell? Never mind. As churches go, this one is first-class.
My high school and college graduations were held in this church. This church is beautiful and the aisle is a long walk but it's one walk to savor to see all the stained class windows. The church is huge but it does not lose sight of it's warmth.
It's a very beautiful church, especially at night.
ok, so here's the deal: as an agnostic, i haven't set foot in an official church in years. we had to show up here for a baptism today (sunday, duh) and i pretty much thought i'd either spontaneously burst into flames or be singed by holy water when i entered. mais non! god loves all creatures, even sinners like myself. i gotta say, there just might be something to this church ritual. the space is gorgeous. i felt instantly at peace. if it wasn't for all the other people and the guy preaching, i would totally hang out here!
Beautiful and inspiring inside and out.
Although my faith isn't as blind as it was growing up, I find attending service at St. Ignatius to be comforting. Growing up Catholic, I still hold some traditions dear even as I grow skeptical of the dogma. The church's beauty is moving and leads you to reflect on the wonders that have come from the minds of men as their hearts were filled with spirituality.
One of my favorite churches in San Francisco. I HATE the modern look for a Church, and this beautiful, Gothic building fits the bill. When I was a student at USF, I used to come here all the time to study. It's a very quiet building, especially if you are the only one in there. Sadly, this church is too far for me to travel for mass when I attend. Yelpers are correct to know that the Blue Angels use the spires as a maker. That and Lone Mountain, up 106 steps from Turk Street.
