What’s distinctive about your parish? Historically speaking, the distinctive thing about this parish is that it is located on the site of the famous Battle of Chancellorsville. During our recent church construction, military articles from that battle including bullets and uniform buttons were discovered on the parish grounds.
The wooded natural surroundings of the area lend the parish an atmosphere of peace and serenity, and visitors often are struck by the very friendly and welcoming attitude of the people who attend here. St. Patrick parishioners are particularly noted for their loyalty to the faith, their piety expressed in the practice of Marian and Eucharistic devotions, and their love for the liturgical traditions of the church.
What’s something visitors to your parish should do or see while there? Visitors will want to see our beautiful new church and middle school that Bishop Michael F. Burbidge dedicated June 13, 2021. Noteworthy are the exquisite hand carved stations of the cross and statues imported from Italy, and in the sanctuary the facing of the marble altar displays a stunning mosaic of the apocalyptic lamb. The golden tabernacle imported from Spain is remarkably elegant and dignified, and the inspiring crucifix was hand carved by the renowned Canadian sculptor Timothy Schmalz, whose works have been displayed at the Vatican. Finally, the recently installed stained-glass windows from Conrad Schmitt Studios depicting St. Joseph and St. Therese are most impressive, and four additional new windows are in the works.
What are some noteworthy parish ministries? The local Battlefield Council Knights of Columbus and Ladies Auxiliary are extremely dedicated. The parish’s pro-life commitment is likewise truly exceptional through the volunteering at and support of charities such as the Paul Stefan Home, Mary’s Shelter, Birthright and Amazing Grace.
What’s something we should know about your clergy? “When I first arrived here 13 years ago, it was clear that the parish needed both a new church and a middle school,” said Father John Ziegler, pastor. “Financial circumstances usually dictate choosing one over the other, but due to the extraordinary generosity of the people, we were able to accomplish both. We also now have in our old church a parish hall which has been a huge benefit. That is a testimony to the amazing faithfulness and dedication of the people here. May God bless and reward them all!”
Father William Schierer is a faithful and diligent parochial vicar to St. Patrick’s parish, Father Ziegler said, and has started a young adult ministry.
The parish is blessed to have six permanent deacons assigned here including Deacon James M. Stenstrom, who works full time with great resolve as the parish business manager. Deacon Don L. Perusi leads a weekly Miraculous Medal novena and recently started a parish bereavement group. Deacon Paul A. D’Antonio supervises the training of altar boys and started a monthly adoration night for men of the parish. Deacon David E. Conroy provides spiritual direction to our newly established St. Vincent de Paul Society. Deacon William D. Pivarnik has assisted here for many years and excels in the catechetical formation of our parish youth. Deacon Leo Flynn is the newest deacon to be assigned here and has been of immense assistance in ministry to the homebound.
Is there a standout or longtime staff member or volunteer you’d like to tell us about? St. Patrick’s has been blessed over the years with a number of very dedicated clergy, office staff, and faithful men and women who dedicate themselves to our RCIA and religious education programs.
Would you like to share anything else about your parish? St. Patrick School continues to offer the young families of our parish an outstanding opportunity for their children to receive an excellent and affordable Catholic education. Our newly constructed middle school and highly motivated faculty and staff testify to our commitment to help these children grow in their love for Our Lord as well as to develop their intellectual gifts so as to give them a bright future full of hope.
Quick facts
St. Patrick Church
9149 Elys Ford Road
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
540/785-5299
Website: saintpatrickparish.org
Social media: facebook.com/StPatrickFredericksburgVA/, instagram.com/stpatrickva/, youtube.com/SaintPatrickCatholicChurchFredericksburgVA
Pastor: Fr. John Ziegler
Parochial vicar: Fr. William Schierer
Deacons: David Conroy, Paul D’Antonio, Leo Flynn, Donald Perusi, William Pivarnik (retired), James Stenstrom
Mass schedule:
Saturday Vigil: 5 p.m.
Sunday: 8 a.m., 9:30 a.m., 11 a.m.
Monday-Saturday: 9 a.m.
Confession:
Thursday: 9:45-10:15 a.m. and 7:30 p.m.
Saturday: 4 p.m. weekly and 7:50-8:50 a.m. on First Saturday
Year established: 1983
Total parishioners: 5,071
St. Patrick School
9151 Elys Ford Rd.
Fredericksburg, VA 22407
540/786-2277
Saintpatrickschoolva.org
Social media: www.facebook.com/saintpatrickschoolva
Pre-K-8
Principal: George Elliott (interim)
