The
Episcopal Church of Saint Paul in the Desert established
its roots when Palm Springs was a tiny village about
1929. In 1930 the Community Church graciously allowed
the use of their facilities and services were conducted
by a chaplain from San Pedro. In November of 1938
the name Saint Paul in the Desert was officially
established, recognizing Saint Paul the Hermit.
Early in 1942 construction of the present church
began and by November 15, 1942 regular services
were held for the first time. On January 25, 1946
the Annual Convention of the Diocese admitted Saint
Paul in the Desert as a regularly organized and
self-sustaining parish.
In 1946 adjoining land was purchased and in 1949
construction commenced for the parish hall. It was
named in honor of the Rev. Robert M. Hogarth, rector
from 1941 to 1952. In 1960 additional property was
purchased from the Kline family and is now recognized
as Blondon House, being named in honor of the second
rector. This structure now houses the church offices
and library, counseling office, and the Youth Condo.
Over the years there have been additions and some
remodeling. In the 1970's translucent church windows
were replaced with stained, faceted windows and
in 1977 the sacristy was added. The 1980's brought
the addition of another adjoining piece of property
and the purchase of the rectory.
On March 31, 1996 The Rt. Rev. Gethin B. Hughes
dedicated the enlarged Sanctuary, Columbarium, and
Ministry Center. This event was the joyful conclusion
of 3 years of prayer, planning, and building. The
enlarged Sanctuary will comfortably seat over 400
people.
Bob James & Father
Andrew Green
Saint Paul in the Desert has also established
two missions during its history. St. Margaret's
Episcopal Church in Palm Desert was begun in 1964
and in 1987 St. Anthony of the Desert in Desert
Hot Springs was granted mission status and was consecrated
in October of 1993. We are grateful for our many
blessings and the rich history of Saint Paul in
the Desert and prayerfully seek God's will for our
future.
The
Episcopal Church of Saint Paul in the Desert established
its roots when Palm Springs was a tiny village about
1929. In 1930 the Community Church graciously allowed
the use of their facilities and services were conducted
by a chaplain from San Pedro. In November of 1938
the name Saint Paul in the Desert was officially
established, recognizing Saint Paul the Hermit.
