About St. Charles Borromeo · Rochester, New York
St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Rochester, New York, is a Christ-centered Catholic community founded in 1926 to serve the growing Catholic population in the Dewey Avenue area. Established by local laymen Leo Lawson and George Pearson, the parish began with humble beginnings, including a first Mass held in the Pearson home in 1925. The parish has since expanded its facilities, including a school and rectory, and continues to serve the community through worship, education, and outreach. It is part of the Diocese of Rochester and operates with a spirit of joy, generosity, and service.
- Established
- 1926
- Patron
- Saint Charles Borromeo
- Diocese
- Diocese of Rochester
Why belong here
Join a community that celebrates the gifts of its parishioners and global neighbors with joy and generosity. Participate in ministries that serve the diverse needs of the local and global community, including faith formation, sacraments, and outreach programs. Experience a Christ-centered worship environment that welcomes all and fosters spiritual growth through regular Mass, Adoration, and community events.
Mass times at St. Charles Borromeo
Weekly Mass schedule
Confession times
- 3:00 pm - 3:45 pm (July 18, 2026 example)
Adoration times
- 5:15 pm - 6:15 pm (July 18, 2026 example)
Church History
St. Charles Borromeo Parish was founded in 1926 by local laymen Leo Lawson and George Pearson, who petitioned Bishop Thomas Hickey for a new church in the Dewey Avenue area. The parish boundaries were established to relieve pressure on surrounding parishes. The first pastor, Rev. John M. Sellinger, laid the cornerstone on July 4, 1926, and held the first Mass in the Pearson home on November 6, 1925. The parish built a church and school, and later added a convent for the Sisters of Mercy. The parish faced financial hardship after the 1929 stock market crash, and Rev. William A. Doran succeeded Sellinger in 1929, continuing the parish’s growth despite economic challenges.
Ministries and Events
The parish offers a variety of ministries and events, including Faith Formation Summer Camp, Nocturnal Adoration, and Confessions. Upcoming events include Summer Camp (July 17, 2026) and Confessions (July 18, 2026).
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Rev. John M. Sellinger1926 – 1929
First pastor; moved into the Pearson home; laid cornerstone; oversaw construction of church and school; resigned after 1929 stock market crash.
- Rev. William A. Doran1929 – 1939
Succeeded Sellinger; added convent for Sisters; continued growth despite economic hardship.