Welcome to St. Elizabeth Seton: A Friendly Neighborhood Parish

St. Elizabeth Seton is located at 5225 Golden Gate Parkway in sunny Naples, Florida. Since opening its doors in 1980, the parish has become a true home for anyone seeking a warm, welcoming Catholic community. Whether parishioners are lifelong Catholics, curious about the faith, or simply neighbors wanting to get involved, they will find a place where they belong.

From Humble Beginnings to a Thriving Family

St. Elizabeth Seton started as a modest mission that served a handful of families. Over the past four decades it has grown into one of the largest Catholic parishes in Southwest Florida, with more than 7,500 families in its vibrant fold. This growth is more than a number; it reflects a living, breathing community that welcomes people from all walks of life. The parish’s story shows how love, perseverance, and a shared purpose can turn a small gathering into a thriving family.

Celebrating Diversity and Inclusion

St. Elizabeth Seton embraces diversity. Spanish, English, and many other languages are heard in the pews. Families from varied cultural backgrounds gather, and individuals with different life experiences are celebrated. Differences are seen as gifts, not obstacles. By fostering unity and inclusivity, the parish helps each person feel seen, heard, and valued—no matter where they come from or how they practice their faith.

The Caring Clergy and Lay Leaders

A dedicated team of clergy and lay ministers guides this lively community. Father Michael, the pastor, is known for his gentle humor and down‑to‑earth sermons that connect Scripture to everyday life. Sister Theresa heads the outreach ministry, coordinating volunteers who visit nursing homes and run food drives. Lay leaders such as Maria, a retired teacher, run adult education classes and keep the parish’s calendar full of events. Together they empower parishioners to live out their faith authentically, nurturing a culture rooted in love, kindness, and forgiveness.

Faith Formation for Every Age

Learning about the faith is an ongoing adventure at St. Elizabeth Seton. Little kids gather for “Faith‑Fun Fridays,” where storytime, crafts, and interactive prayers turn catechism into a lively playground of discovery. Middle‑schoolers participate in youth group activities that blend service projects with Bible study. High‑schoolers join retreats that challenge them to wrestle with real‑world questions through a Catholic lens.

Adults also benefit. The parish offers continuing‑education workshops that cover moral theology and practical ways to incorporate prayer into a busy workday. These programs help everyone deepen their understanding of Catholic teachings and translate that knowledge into everyday actions.

Putting Faith Into Action: Service and Outreach

Faith without works is like a ship without a sail. St. Elizabeth Seton’s commitment to community service is evident in many volunteer programs. Each month volunteers assemble and distribute food parcels to families facing hunger, turning a simple act of giving into a powerful statement of solidarity. A team of “Visiting Angels” makes regular trips to hospitals and assisted‑living facilities, bringing comfort and conversation to those who need it most.

The parish also runs a tutoring program for children from low‑income families, providing homework help, mentorship, and a safe space to learn. By partnering with local shelters and food banks, the parish tackles broader social issues such as homelessness and food insecurity with compassion and practical solutions. Every act of service reinforces the mission to be a beacon of hope, love, and justice in the wider Naples community.

Learning, Growing, and Sharing Knowledge

Lifelong learning is highly valued at St. Elizabeth Seton. The adult education series “Faith in the Modern World” invites speakers from psychology, social justice, and environmental stewardship to discuss how Catholic values intersect with contemporary challenges. These sessions spark vibrant discussions that encourage critical thinking and responsible action.

Those interested in deepening their sacramental life can attend retreats focused on the sacraments of reconciliation and the Eucharist. The retreat centers, nestled in peaceful gardens, provide a sanctuary where parishioners can reflect, pray, and renew their spiritual commitment. The parish library, stocked with theological texts, devotional books, and family‑friendly resources, serves as a quiet corner for personal or group study.

Spaces That Invite Connection

Physical space is essential for building community. The main church building blends traditional architecture with modern comfort. The sanctuary features soaring arches, stained‑glass windows that filter sunlight into a kaleidoscope of colors, and a spacious altar that invites all to gather around the Mass.

Adjacent to the church is a multi‑purpose community center with classrooms, meeting rooms, and a kitchen equipped for potlucks, fundraising events, and cooking classes. Its open‑plan design encourages spontaneous conversations—whether a teenager discusses a recent service project or an elderly couple reminisces about past parish celebrations. Outdoor gardens provide a tranquil setting for prayer, picnics, and seasonal festivals. Together these spaces create an environment where people can gather, share, and grow together.

Making a Difference in Naples

St. Elizabeth Seton’s impact extends far beyond its walls. Through volunteer initiatives, the parish has fed thousands of families, visited countless sick and lonely individuals, and provided educational support to children who might otherwise fall behind. Charitable drives have raised substantial funds for local shelters, disaster relief, and health‑care clinics. By fostering stewardship, the parish encourages members to give—not just money, but also time, talent, and compassion—to the broader community.

Neighbors often refer to the parish as a “second family,” noting how the support received during challenging times helped them regain hope and stability. Local schools and civic organizations partner with St. Elizabeth Seton on joint projects, reinforcing the idea that faith can be a powerful catalyst for community development and social cohesion.

Join the Celebration of Faith, Love, and Service

Whether parishioners are Naples natives who grew up attending Mass, recent transplantees looking for a place to belong, or anyone simply curious about the Catholic tradition, St. Elizabeth Seton extends a heartfelt invitation. Come for a Sunday Mass, stay for coffee in the fellowship hall, and discover a community that welcomes everyone just as they are.

Participate in a youth group, sign up for a volunteer shift, or enroll in a faith‑formation class—there is a spot for every interest and schedule. The parish believes that each person carries a unique spark of God’s love, and when those sparks come together, they create a radiant light that can illuminate even the darkest corners of the world.

Follow St. Elizabeth Seton on Tabella

Ready to stay in the loop? Follow St. Elizabeth Seton on Tabella to receive the latest updates on Mass times, upcoming events, volunteer opportunities, and inspirational stories from the community. By joining the Tabella community, members receive friendly reminders, helpful resources, and a direct line to the people who make St. Elizabeth Seton such a special place. Don’t miss out—be part of the conversation, share experiences, and help spread the message of hope, compassion, and faith throughout Naples.