By Catholic San Francisco
On Sunday, September 28, Fr. Jose Shaji was installed as pastor of St. Emydius Catholic Church by Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone. During the Mass, Father Andrew Ibegbulem, OSA, pastor of St. Paul of the Shipwreck Church, read the archbishop’s official letter of appointment.
Founded in 1913 to serve Catholics settling in the western neighborhoods after the 1906 earthquake, St. Emydius has been a cornerstone of the area. Named after the patron saint of protection against earthquakes, the current church building was completed in 1928 and remains one of the most recognizable landmarks in the neighborhood.
As part of the Rite of Installation, Archbishop Cordileone introduced Father Shaji as the pastor of the parish and invited the parishioners to welcome their new pastor. The congregation rose to their feet in a spontaneous standing ovation, showing their love and support for Father Shaji.
In his homily, Archbishop Cordileone thanked Father Saji for his service to the parish and for taking on the role as pastor.
In his remarks at the reception, the new pastor reflected on his journey with the parish over the past two years — the joys, the challenges, and the sense of family that has grown among the people of St. Emydius. He thanked the archbishop for his trust and the parishioners for their love and support, promising to continue walking with them in faith and service.
Photos: John Bartolome
