St. Ignatius Loyola Parish was founded June 1, 1965 by Bishop Joseph M. McShea, in anticipation of a large Catholic population growth in Western Berks County. His vision was wise and true as economic growth brought forth expansion and many area newcomers. The original 475 families (separated from Sacred Heart Parish in West Reading) have expanded to 2400 today. This is in spite of a second separation of 300 families in 1982 to form another parish even farther west - St. Francis de Sales in Robesonia.

Under the direction of our first pastor, Father Joseph P. Radocha, and our administrator, Father Robert J. Coll, the original buildings were constructed; convent, school and church. Original parishioners will, nonetheless, remember Masses and socials in the West Lawn Fire Company Social Hall, and that is where the parish community spirit began.

The spirit continued to grow as the community grew. Father Stephen J. Bednarik, Father John P. Sabas and Monsignor James A. Treston succeeded as leaders and pastors of our parish.

Our present pastor, Monsignor Treston, in his twenty-five years, has indelibly marked our parish with a dedication, enthusiasm and set of pastoral skills that bring out the best in ourselves; to believe in and participate in Stewardship, giving back to God our time, talent and treasure for all the blessings He has bestowed on us.

His leadership has brought us a Parish Education Center, where 400 plus students are enrolled in the parish school and 800 plus students attend CCD classes. A series of adult and youth programs including academic, athletic and social are also provided. Our church was expanded and refurbished in 1996-97 to accommodate the liturgical needs of our parish family.

Our future is what we want it to be -- as parishioners! In the words of our patron, St. Ignatius Loyola, "we do all for the greater honor and glory of God".

Church Website

www.stignatiusreading.org/

Weekly Church Bulletins

www.CatholicWeb.com

This Page last updated 11/3/09.