Reverend
Francis J. Barry

The story of St. Cecelia Church of Clearwater—like that of the Catholic Church elsewhere in Florida—has been one of dramatic growth from a modest origin. While the Spanish explorers brought the faith here early in the sixteenth century, a diocesan structure was not established until 1870. In that year, the Diocese of St. Augustine was formed, embracing the entire state except for the more remote northern panhandle area.

In November, 1923, the Rev. Francis J. Barry, formerly chancellor of the Archdiocese of Chicago, who became a Clearwater resident because of poor health, began ministering to Catholics in the area.

The next year—1924—marked the start of construction on the north wing of St. Cecelia's Church. The first Mass was celebrated at midnight on Christmas Day, 1924.

See: Parish History

Pastors:
1924 & Beyond

Fr. Patrick Irwin

The seventh pastor of St. Cecelia Church, Father Patrick Irwin, arrived in July, 2005.

Monsignor Aiden Foynes

Monsignor Aiden Foynes, Pastor Emeritus, assumed leadership of St. Cecelia Church from 1993-2005, a return to the first parish he served as a newly ordained priest in 1961.

Monsignor Dacian Dee

Fifth pastor of the parish from 1990-1993.

Monsignor John Cippel

Fourth pastor of St. Cecelia Church, from 1982 until 1990.

Monsignor Michael Devine

Third pastor of St. Cecelia's from 1978-1982.

Bishop W. Thomas Larkin

Second pastor of St. Cecelia Church, from 1968 until his appointment as Bishop of the Diocese of St. Petersburg in 1978. When the new Diocese of St. Petersburg was formed in June 1968, (Bishop) Larkin was appointed Vicar General and Officialis, in addition to his pastorate at St. Cecelia's.

Monsignor Thomas A. Colreavy

The first pastor of St. Cecelia Parish, from 1929-1968. He died on March 3, 1968 after serving nearly 40 years here.