About St. Columbkille (Brighton) · Brighton, Massachusetts
St. Columbkille Parish in Brighton, Massachusetts, is a vibrant Catholic community rooted in Irish heritage and dedicated to living the Gospel through worship, service, and education. Founded in 1871 as a parish, it has grown from humble beginnings in a barn loft to a thriving parish with a school, active ministries, and a strong commitment to faith formation. The parish celebrates the presence of Christ through the Eucharist, sacraments, and daily acts of charity, welcoming all who seek to grow in holiness and community.
- Established
- 1871
- Patron
- St. Columbkille
- Rector
- Very Rev. Richard W. Fitzgerald
- Diocese
- Diocese of Boston
Why belong here
Join a community that lives the Gospel through daily acts of charity, prayer, and service. Experience vibrant ministries like youth groups, parish picnics, and faith formation programs. Be part of a parish that supports global missions, local outreach, and spiritual growth for all ages — from children’s prayer groups to adult commissions and sacramental preparation.
History
Catholics were present in Brighton as early as the American Revolution. The first church, St. Columba’s, was built in 1855 on Bennett Street by Fr. Joseph Finnoti, but burned in 1862. Masses were held in Town Hall’s basement until 1863. In 1871, Archbishop Williams made it a parish, and Fr. Patrick J. Rogers renamed it St. Columbkille and moved it to its current location. The new church was completed in 1880. Fr. Rogers also purchased land for a seminary, which Archbishop Williams later designated for St. John’s Seminary. Fr. Anthony Rossi, who succeeded Rogers, founded the parish school in 1901.
Ministries
The parish offers a wide range of ministries to serve all ages and interests, including youth groups, faith formation, parish picnics, and community outreach. The Young Adult Commission meets monthly, and the St. Vincent de Paul Society welcomes new members. The parish also hosts special events like the One Faith One Family Picnic and the annual Parish Festival.
- Young Adult Commission
- St. Vincent de Paul Society
- Junior Youth Group
- First Friday Holy Hour
- Parish Picnic
- Parish Festival
Faith Formation
Faith formation is offered in both English and Spanish, with a dedicated director overseeing programs for children and adults. The parish school, St. Columbkille Partnership School, provides Catholic education from preschool through 8th grade. The parish also offers sacramental preparation and catechetical programs for all ages.
Sacraments
The parish celebrates the sacraments, including Baptism, First Communion, Confirmation, Marriage, and Reconciliation. Mass is celebrated regularly, and Confession and Adoration are available by appointment or during designated times. The parish also supports the sacramental life of the community through outreach and education.
Pastors & rectors through the years
- Fr. Patrick J. Rogers1871–1882
Changed parish name to St. Columbkille; purchased land for church and future seminary; founded parish school in 1901.
- Fr. Anthony Rossi1882–1907
Founded and built St. Columbkille Partnership School; described as 'one of the most powerful forces for public good' in Brighton.