We are a Roman, Catholic community located in South Tacoma, grounded in Sacred Scripture, Sacred Tradition in unity with the Pope and the Magisterium. We are vibrant, alive parish that lives and believes St.Paul's message of One body but Many parts. Our parishioners have great ownership of our ministries so come join Mother Church in South Tacoma.
A Note to Pilgrims and Visitors
Warmest greetings to you. If you look at the foundation stone on the northwest corner of the church, you will find the following inscription
AD 1912 the Church of the Visitation U.I.O.G.D
(Ut in Omnibus Glorificetur Dei) translated from Latin And in all things may God be glorified.
1912 was the year that the Titanic sank on its maiden voyage across the Atlantic. Unlike the Titanic this Ark of Peter, Visitation Church, has stood the test of time and a century of much upheaval. The stained glass windows, made in Germany, were shipped around Cape Horn at the tip of South America to the port of Washington and are still as beautiful today as the day installed. If you venture inside, you can stand at the entry and view the four Evangelists over the altar as they look down on the Sanctuary area. Perhaps you may be fortunate to hear the strains of the Wicks organ filling the worship space with its melodious sounds.
This is a church where you could find a home and a cousin in faith. Just as Mary visited her cousin Elizabeth the members of this parish are more than willing to visit you or return the visit that you are now making. The name Visitation echoes the joy of two women whose children Jesus and John the Baptist would baptize the world into a new relationship with Heaven. “Hail full of grace, the Lord is with you, blessed are you among women and blessed is the fruit of your womb” Luke 1.42 the words of Elizabeth to Mary. May I offer you the thought that both women will be here to greet you when you make your visit or choose to become a Member. They will introduce you to their sons, leading you to rejoice in the Good News that God has intervened in history to save us.
On behalf of the Parish of Visitation Membership and the Benedictine Order whose motto U.I.O.G.D. (above) is found on the cornerstone, I offer you our sincerest welcome.
Please do consider becoming a part of this wonderful family and if you have made this decision, the hand of welcome is extended to you and those dear to you.
In the Joy of Christ,
Fr. Martin Bourke
Pastor