Archdiocese of San Francisco

The Roman Catholic Archdiocese of San Francisco was established in 1853 during the California Gold Rush, building on an existing community of Spanish-speaking Catholics. The Church served the spiritual needs of miners and those who followed, including businesses, families, and immigrants. Archbishop Joseph Alemeny, the first bishop of the new diocese, oversaw the establishment of many churches, schools, hospitals, orphanages and homes for the elderly, and many more foundational aspects of the young city of San Francisco. Today the archdiocese continues to be active in these areas, providing social services and education to thousands of people through the generous efforts of a half-million Catholics living in San Francisco, Marin, and San Mateo Counties.

Learn more about the archdiocese at www.SFArch.org, or come visit us at the Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, 1111 Gough Street in San Francisco, or any Catholic parish.