Welcome to St. Francis of Assisi in Sunny Yuma, Arizona!

Hey there! If you're in Yuma or just passing through, let me tell you about this absolute gem of a place at 1815 S. 8th Ave. St. Francis of Assisi Catholic Church isn't just another pretty building - it's a spiritual home with an amazing story behind it. You can tell you this place has that special something that just makes you feel at peace.

Meet St. Francis - The OG Animal Lover

So this church is named after one of the coolest saints ever - and I don't say that lightly! Born way back in 1181 (that's over 800 years ago!), St. Francis was basically the original nature lover and animal whisperer. That's why he's the patron saint of animals (and ecology too!). The guy literally preached to birds and tamed a wolf that was terrorizing a town. How awesome is that?

His whole vibe was about simplicity, loving all of God's creation, and living with joy - which totally comes through in this church. Whenever I visit, I can't help but think about how Francis would probably be stoked to see a place like this carrying on his legacy in the Arizona desert.

Step Inside - Prepare to Be Wowed

Okay, let's talk about the church itself. First impression? Beautiful doesn't even begin to cover it. From the moment you walk up, there's this sense of peace that hits you. The architecture has that perfect mix of traditional Catholic elements with some Southwestern flair that makes it uniquely Yuma.

The stained glass? Gorgeous. The altar area? Breathtaking. The whole space just has this warm, welcoming energy that makes you want to sit down, take a deep breath, and just be present. And don't even get me started on how the light comes through in the mornings - it's like heaven's own Instagram filter.

More Than Just a Pretty Face

But here's the thing - St. Francis of Assisi isn't just about looking pretty (though it definitely does that well). This is a living, breathing community. The church is open daily, so whether you want to pop in for some quiet prayer time, check out the artwork, or attend Mass, there's always space for you.

They've got all the regular Mass times, plus special events throughout the year. I've been to a few of their feast day celebrations, and let me tell you - these folks know how to throw a church party with meaning. The energy during the St. Francis blessing of the animals (usually around his October 4 feast day) is especially fun - dogs, cats, even the occasional lizard getting blessed!

Walk in Francis' Footsteps

One of my favorite things to do here is just learn more about St. Francis' life through the little details in the church. There are usually pamphlets available, and sometimes they have displays about his incredible journey from spoiled rich kid to radical follower of Christ.

Dude gave up everything to serve God and the poor, founded the Franciscan order, received the stigmata (the wounds of Christ), and basically revolutionized medieval Christianity with his simple, joyful approach to faith. And the crazy part? His message is just as relevant today as it was 800 years ago.

Your Invitation to Experience It

So here's my pitch: whether you're Catholic, curious, or just looking for a beautiful, peaceful spot in Yuma, give St. Francis of Assisi a visit. Come for the architecture, stay for the spiritual uplift. Attend a Mass if that's your thing, or just sit quietly and take it all in. Learn about this amazing saint who changed the world by embracing simplicity and love.

I promise you'll leave feeling a little lighter, a little more connected, and maybe - just maybe - with a new appreciation for all of God's creatures (even the desert critters!).

Let's Stay Connected!

Want to keep up with what's happening at this awesome parish? Follow St. Francis of Assisi in Yuma on Tabella! You'll get updates on Mass times, special events, and maybe even some behind-the-scenes looks at this beautiful spiritual home in the Arizona desert. See you there!