About St. Edward the Martyr · Sisters, Oregon
St. Edward the Martyr Catholic Church in Sisters, Oregon, is a welcoming parish established in 1964 to serve the Catholic community in a region historically without a local church. Founded on donated land and built with community support and donations, the parish has grown from a small mission into a vibrant, active community centered on sacramental worship, faith formation, and service. The church is part of the Diocese of Baker and is currently led by Administrator Reverend Rijo Devasia, CST. Its unique interior design and Stations of the Cross garden reflect its deep spiritual and historical roots.
- Established
- 1964
- Patron
- St. Edward the Martyr
- Rector
- Reverend Rijo Devasia, CST
- Diocese
- Diocese of Baker
Why belong here
Join a parish that fosters a warm, welcoming Catholic community through sacramental worship, faith formation, and active service to family and neighbors. Ministries include RCIA, Religious Education, Liturgical Ministry, and Men of St. Edward the Martyr, offering opportunities for spiritual growth and community involvement at all life stages.
History
Saint Edward the Martyr Parish was officially established as a parish on July 1, 1984, by Bishop Thomas J. Connolly. The parish’s origins trace back to 1962, when Rex and Minerva Trowbridge donated land for a church building. Construction began under Bishop Francis P. Leipzig and was completed in time for the first Mass on Christmas Eve, 1963. The church was dedicated as Saint Edward Mission on April 5, 1964. Before 1964, Catholics in the area had to travel to Bend or Redmond for Mass. The parish was initially served by visiting priests due to a lack of a permanent pastor. The parish has since grown and evolved, becoming a central spiritual hub for the Sisters community.
Ministries
- Altar Society
- Finance Council
- Liturgical Ministries
- Men of St. Edward the Martyr
- Music Ministry
- Parish Council
- Religious Education
- RCIA: The Rite of Catholic Initiation
Parish Leadership
The parish is currently led by Administrator Reverend Rijo Devasia, CST. The parish office is staffed by Nanci Reuter (Bookkeeper), Bettina Haugen (RE Coordinator), Doug Leonnig (RCIA Coordinator), and Carla Zylius (Bulletin Coordinator).