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Mission Statement

To enrich our communities by providing not only assistance resources and hope for families and individuals but also offering a beautiful historic venue for spiritual solace, friendship and celebration – all with respect and compassion.

 

Vision Statement

The St. Isidore Historical Plaza will be recognized by the community as the leading provider of family services.
The St. Isidore Chapel will be recognized as a city, state, and federal historic site that offers non-denominational services, ceremonies and spiritual solace. It will serve as the historical heart of the city. The St. Isidore Plaza, including the Chapel, Hall, Center Building and Garden Patio will serve as a town center for family and community friendship and celebration. And, by 2013, the property and buildings will be owned and operated by the organization.

History

St. Isidore History –
The Journey from Catholic Parish to Community Center

St. Isidore is one of 55 Catholic Parishes established in Orange County since 1776, which was marked with the completion of the mission at San Juan Capistrano.   St. Isidore is one of the 5th oldest parishes established during 1921 in Los Alamitos along with St. Anne’s in Seal Beach and the Holy Family Parish in Orange.   The historical and monumental work established at St. Isidore was the foundation that was utilized as a cornerstone to eventual transition to a newer parish of St. Hedwig, which is also in Los Alamitos. 

St. Isidore not only served the devout Catholics in the area, but was also one of the first buildings, presently the oldest community building, in the City of Los Alamitos and played a very important role in the creation of the city.   The population this parish supported changed significantly during the 1940’s during World War II as the government established a military airfield to support the significant naval aviation operations taking place in Long Beach.  Many people left the service and stayed in the area as new housing was established.  The parish recognized the transition from primarily farm and migrant workers to a mix that now included a significant number of working professionals.   The City of Los Alamitos was incorporated in 1960 of which also marked the completion of the St. Hedwig church and parish.  50 years later in 2010, the City would return to St. Isidore to mark its milestone by conducting their City Council Meeting from the St. Isidore Hall.

Although St. Isidore is no longer an active Parish within the Diocese of Orange County, its rich Catholic history and continued support of its community make St. Isidore something the City of Los Alamitos and surrounding community are fighting to preserve.