What is something unique about your parish?
We’re known as “the little church in the woods.” Situated on about 10 acres in a largely residential neighborhood, St. Clare is a house of worship and prayer surrounded by woodlands that abound with wildlife.
Tell us a little about your history.
We’re named in honor of St. Clare of Assisi. In 1980, we were established as a mission church. For about 10 years afterward, our priest and parishioners celebrated Mass in the Old Clifton Fire House, where the alarm would often sound and fire trucks would speed away during Mass.
In 1991, Bishop John R. Keating dedicated St. Clare. We became an independent parish Aug. 11, 1996, with Msgr. Frank E. Mahler as the founding pastor.
What are some things visitors and new parishioners might like to know about the parish clergy?
As a young man, our pastor, Father Michael J. Bazan was in the U.S. Air Force from 1972 to 1977 before beginning his seminary studies. Before his appointment as pastor to St. Clare’s in 2021, he served as associate pastor and pastor in several other parishes. In May 2024, he celebrated his 40th anniversary in the priesthood.
Father Bazan is known at St. Clare for his positive attitude, his hearty welcome to newcomers, and his love of sports. On his appointment to St. Clare, he was asked if there is anything else his new parishioners should know about him. “Don’t be afraid to invite me to dinner,” Father Bazan said, then added with his usual good humor. “I’ll eat anything but hot dogs.”
Father Bazan is assisted by Deacon Michael J. Mochel, who served in the U.S. Air Force for 27 years, then worked as a government contractor and as director of career development at Christendom College in Front Royal. During his years at St. Clare, he has been involved in music ministry and religious education. Today, he is the director of the parish Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults program.
Other staff members include Office Manager Hawla Donley, Administrative Assistant Dana Bretney, Music Director and Wedding Coordinator Mary Dash, and Director of Faith Formation Samantha “Sam” Williams.
Tell us something about your parish ministries.
In addition to religious education and RCIA, there is an adult Bible study conducted by Deacon Mochel in the fall. Our Knights of Columbus Council No. 12963 is active, holding monthly food drives, caring for the elderly, and the infirm, offering assistance to parishioners looking for a little help with tasks, and organizing various parish celebrations.
The church is open daily for prayer from 7 a.m. until 7 p.m.
Quick Facts
St. Clare of Assisi Church
12409 Henderson Road
Clifton
703-266-1310
Website: stclareclifton.org
Pastor: Father Michael J. Bazan
Deacon: Michael J. Mochel
Mass Schedule: Sat. (Vigil) 5:30 p.m., Sun. 8 a.m. and 10:30 a.m., Mon.-Sat. 8 a.m.
Confession: Sat. 4-5 p.m. and by appointment
Parish Office Hours: Mon.-Fri. 8:30 a.m-3:30 p.m.
Year Established: 1980
Parishioners: 900+
