Beautiful church. This church means a lot to me. I remember feeling so happy and excited that I was graduating. Finally. Little did I know at the time that also means student loan repayment. So maybe I shouldn't have been so excited. Besides my wedding gown (preserved in a box), I also kept my graduation regalia in my closet. It's kept in a plastic bag so maybe it's preserved? I don't know why. It's not like I'm going to wear them again. I guess it's nostalgia. Some of our family attends this church regularly because they live nearby, but for me, it will always be where I finally graduated. Located on Fulton Street and Parker Ave. read more

St. Ignatius Church - Outside - Churches Near Me - San Francisco, California

This is a very beautiful evangelical parish in San Francisco. . Ignatius Church is operated by the Jesuits of the California Province of the Society of Jesus. It is located on the campus of the University of San Francisco, a Jesuit run university. read more

St. Ignatius Church - St Ignatius Catholic Church - Churches Near Me - San Francisco, California

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I go to this church on sundays cause its right next to my school! Very beautiful and during the 7 o'clock time they have really up beat music! read more

One of my routines that I most miss is... yes, going to Sunday mass. I am a long time parishioner of St. Mary's and Old St. Mary's in Chinatown and, with the shutdown in March, I suddenly felt a bit lost Sundays. A friend thoughtfully shared their YouTube stream link with me and I have been a regular attendee since. The streamed mass on Sundays at 10 am and there is a live chat link for the parishioners to share their thoughts and prayers during the mass. I've learned to appreciate Father Greg and a mix of guest and outgoing priests who hosted the mass. In early June, there was a special celebration on the outer lawn area as things looked like they were opening up again. Sadly, that is not the case so the past few masses have been back inside this beautiful church. There is music provided with an organist and vocalist, sometimes violinists like this past Sunday too. The readings and intentions are done by active parishioners who likely are staples of this community. I have a history here as, being an alumni of that Sunset District High School from the late '70's, I walked down the aisle here... graduation that is. My memory of the inside of the church is cloudy as it has been forty years... dang. I remember wearing a gown and tossing my cap in the air on the aforementioned lawn and hugging family and friends. I feel for those graduates who were unable to share this joy this year. I enjoy attending mass as a time for reflection and prayer. In remembering things that I hope for and praying for those close to me who are in need. I also thank God for the things that he's provided me in my life in my quest to be a better person. read more

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I came here for a candle light concert tribute to the Beatles. It's a big, beautiful church with lots of seating. The concert only took a fraction of the space, and it was gorgeous with all of the battery operated candles. The concert was put on by Fever Up. My only issue is for a church that large, there's 1 unisex bathroom stall in the back of the church, and only 2 downstairs. read more

Little known fact: I wore the plaid skirt. That's right. Just because my best friend went to Catholic school, I followed along for the fun. Never mind that I was not Catholic nor were my unsuspecting parents aware of the process surrounding ignorant children such as myself. All that mattered, was the fact that it was a. private and b. not a public school. So, because of my apparent love for architecture, it was not hard to bend my arm about stepping over the threshold of this religious establishment to be richly rewarded by a sure vision: beauty is indeed in the eyes of the unsuspecting beholder. Stunning. Absolutely stunning are my words in describing the interior of this church. I can't say anything else because I slipped in for other reasons (a service was taking place) but given the fact that I do operate somewhat along the lines of the Ten Commandments, listening to the speaker was nostalgic and encouraging: days of listening to Father McDermott lead afternoon Mass. Or perhaps it was just an Anton Ego moment, when I was being swept back to those days of running around playing soccer on the field and consistently getting detention because of the tomboy antics I was causing by not conforming to the skirt and stepping up to fights with the boys. Otherwise, I am thankful that I've always felt welcomed by the Catholic community and at the very least, know where to head when I need a little moment of religious reflection, quiet and solitude, whatever that may mean. read more

St. Ignatius Church - Beauty at first sight. - Churches Near Me - San Francisco, California

February 14, 2004. The day finally came that no one ever thought they would see. Rene C scored a hottie and got married. My wife and I had a family only wedding which included a total of 38 guests. Given that the church is gigantic this was pretty comical as our families filled up about a half a pew. But looking back I would not change a thing as the weather was perfect and we could not have chosen a better venue to exchange our wedding vows. There had been a stretch of rain storms leading up to our day and the forecast was for more rain, but this was not at all the case as we were able to take out door photos on Lone Mountain and in front of the church as well. During the month of February I was battling the head cold of the century, but on this day the cold subsided and I was feeling 100 percent. Maybe it was Saint Ignatius himself who made sure I was not sneezing and wheezing as I stand at the alter. Saint Ignatius is a throwback full of tradition. It sits perched up on a hill on a hill overlooking my alma mater. The spires of the church can be seen from virtually anywhere in the city and helps add to the already beautiful skyline of the City. read more

Dedicated in 1914, this Jesuit parish boasts one of the many historical landmarks in San Francisco. The captivating religious artwork and secular architecture captures the time period of the early 19th century bringing a gothic yet holy presence as you enter the house of God. I was amazed how the church has been well kept and maintained through all these years. I never knew a church like this existed in the Bay Area. I was reminded of my mother's vacation trips to Europe because it resembles a lot of detailed designs and influences from Russia and Europe. On this day (11/24/07) I was honored to attend the wedding of Claire and Jeremy Felizardo. Before the ceremony, I took the time to wonder the halls and individual chapel areas (see my contributed photos). I felt like I had traveled into another country as I read all the words of God on the walls, studied the amazing paintings and columns, and absorbed the colorful designs on the domed ceiling above the alter. For awhile I pretended I was in the movie - Da Vinci Code. Perfect Tourist Attraction and Pilgrimage for visitors: Yes. Romantic for weddings: Yes Place to baptize your atheist friends: Yes read more

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This church is absolutely gorgeous! We had Mass here at 9:30 a.m. the priest was mentioning in the announcements that every third Sunday they will only have mass at one time in the morning, to celebrate togetherness and family. It was so cute because this weekend they were blessing the dogs and honor of saint Francis of Assisi and his devotion to animals.it was so wonderful to have mass here because of the absolute stunning architecture, the beautiful hand-painted stations of the Cross, the beautiful sections to the side of the church for intimate prayer, and my favorite part the giant statue of the Virgin Mary at the front left of the church.overall, I was visiting from Chicago, and with comes back to this church if I ever were to return to San Francisco. read more

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If you are looking for a beautiful Roman Catholic Church with wonderful programs for Adults as well as Children; with thoughtful sermons delivered by wonderful Jesuit priests; a caring, socially active community, and a place with beautiful music, look no further! St. Ignatius Parish Church, located on the USF Campus at 650 Parker at Fulton not only has plenty of free parking -- it has plenty of caring, welcome, and a close-knit while wonderfully accepting community of thinking Catholics who will envelop you in their arms and make you part of the Parish. I joined St. Ignatius as part of the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults: the religious education program for adults who are converting to Catholicism. Contrasting with the church I had been attending, I felt welcomed at St. Ignatius from the moment I walked in the door. I had the extreme good fortune to meet a senior couple--long-time parishioners who had four sons, three of whom were Jesuit priests and one of whom was a M.D. from Yale working on developing the AIDS vaccine! They immediately took me "under their wings" and directed me to the parish offices, interrupting a meeting to introduce me to the priest in charge of the R.C.I.A. program. This kindness I found again and again in St. Ignatius parishioners, staff, and clergy. This is a wonderful place. If you are looking for a church to call home, a parish to make a part of your life, come to St. Ignatius. You won't be disappointed, especially if you choose to get involved in one of the many programs offered! BTW, I am now a fully-fledged Catholic, and running the Film Club at St. Ignatius. Stop by at 6:00 p.m. the first Saturday of the month, and get to know us! :-) read more

St. Ignatius Church - St Ignatius at Evening - Churches Near Me - San Francisco, California

I attended services with family here at this beautiful church while in the Bay area. For this former Catholic, this church seems a little excess, but for this practicing Christian now, simpler is better in religion. But really, the interior and exterior architecture of this church is a sight to be seen if you are Catholic. I did not know that this church was part of the SFU campus, but this is an open parish for the locals. I learned that the Jesuits run the university and this church. FYI....according to Wikipedia, the Jesuits today form the largest single religious order of priests and brothers in the Catholic Church. Anyways...parking was a challenge for Sunday services and I cannot imagine what it would be like during a holiday like Christmas, but for this former Catholic, they can appreciate and love this church! Four Yelp Stars! read more

St. Ignatius Church - from my iPhone 4 - Churches Near Me - San Francisco, California

I have photographed at many amazing churches, but this is definitely one of the most stunningly beautiful ones ever! After being the photographer at two weddings here, last year, I am compelled to write about it. Quite literally, this place is awe-inspiring. One other reviewer noted having a stiff neck, from gawking at all the incredible ornate details, that are everywhere, at Saint Ignatius Church, and I would agree. Your jaw just might drop open and stay there. If you have your wedding here, there are certain time-constraints, but no more than at any other large church. The church coordinator was also helpful to me, showing me the access to the balcony, and all the areas where photography is allowed. For a sampling of wedding photos at Saint Ignatius Church look here: http://www.expressiveblog.com/blog/blog1.php/2008/08/08/erika-and-steven-wedding-at-saint-ignati read more

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This church is a specticle. I'm not that much of a religious person, but when you walk into this church something comes over you. You just want to stop and stay there for an hour, looking at how beautifully ornate it is. I visited while I was on a tour of the University of San Francisco. Here are some factoids I learned: -There is a 2 year wedding waiting list for this church of USF faculty members and alumni -It's the biggest church on any college campus -The organ in the church was used to make the Godfather 3 soundtrack. -The crosses at the top of the church are 6 feet tall. -The church was used in one of the scenes of The Wedding Planner Awsome site. :D read more

St. Ignatius Church - Churches Near Me - San Francisco, California

By far, one of the best churches I've seen. And this is a first for me to review this type of establishment. But for you that are curious, this is definitely a place that deserves more than one glance. I've visited this place often before and have never had the chance to review it until now. Came here for a wedding rehearsal (AS A GROOMSMAN). And I couldn't help but catch myself staring up at every single thing around me. And trust me, I know. My neck was getting real sore just doing so. Everywhere you look is like something out of a painting. Stained glass windows. Arches. Pillars. The works. SIMPLY WONDROUS. Did I mention, it's HUUUUGE??? Walking up and down the aisles is enough to say you've had your daily workout. I don't know how else to describe this church. Just to drop a few more words: MAGNIFICENT... BEAUTIFUL... AMAZING... ENORMOUS... ...I can go on and on. Conveniently located at USF, you'll never suspect that it's connected to a school. I love it. What an awesome place to celebrate mass. Worth checking out indeed. read more

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As a fourth year USF student, St. Ignatius Church has been one of my favorite places in the city for the past few years. It is a beautiful basilica style building with lots of quiet corners for prayer. It is huge, grand, and magnificent without being overwhelming, gaudy or intimidating. My favorite spaces are the St. Joseph chapel and the Virgin of Guadalupe chapel. Both are beautiful in their own ways. I also love the Jesuits who minister at St. Ignatius. They are all very intelligent, well-read, and down-to-earth priests who always give thought provoking homilies. I'd love to get married here one day. read more

What a beautiful church! And, the perfect place to celebrate a high school graduation. The lawn adjacent to it is large enough to continue the celebration, making lasting memories and saying goodbye to good friends. The design is classic and gorgeous. I'm looking forward to celebrating my niece's wedding here next year! read more

Yesterday our son participated in a wonderous and heartfelt graduation ceremony to commemorate the University of San Francisco's Class of 2010. The graduation ceremony, like the Commencement Mass that was held this past May 20, 2010, was held at the St. Ignatius Church on the campus of the University of San Francisco. St. Ignatius Church is operated by the Jesuits of the California Province of the Society of Jesus. It is located on the campus of the University of San Francisco, a Jesuit run university. A much more detailed review on this church is written by my daughter, Noelle W. (2/6/2009) whereupon Noelle gives history and many useful details. In the words of the founder of the Society of Jesus (the Jesuits) the "Suscipe" prayer by St. Ignatius of Loyola: "Take, Lord, and receive all my liberty, my memory, my understanding and my entire will, all that I have and call my own. You have given all to me. To you, Lord, I return it. Everything is yours; do with it what you will. Give me only your love and grace, that is enough for me." Sitting in the pews of St. Ignatius Church with our family witnessing the graduation ceremony made me recall so many incredible memories I have of varying events and Masses at this historic Jesuit church. I told my son how proud I am of his college graduation and how Jesuit education from high school (Bellarmine College Prep) through college (University of San Francisco) has formed him to be truly "a man for others" in the Jesuit tradition. "ad majorem Dei gloriam" ~ for the greater glory of God ~ All are welcome to visit St. Ignatius Church regardless of whether you have a religion or not. Be mindful and respectful when you enter the church and feel free to ask anyone who works there questions you might have. Make sure you set enough time aside to tour the entire church and if so inclined, light a votive candle, make a donation and pray for peace.... read more

The World According to Noelle ~Allergic Girl's Guide to Life~ Issue 302 T a k e & R e c e i v e Take, O Lord, and receive my entire liberty, my memory, my understanding and my whole will. All that I am and all that I possess You have given me. I surrender it all to You to be disposed of according to Your will. Give me only Your love and Your grace; with these I will be rich enough, and will desire nothing more. ~St. Ignatius of Loyola Saint Ignatius Roman Catholic Church is a feast for the eyes- the architecture, the stained glass windows, the paintings and sculptures are simply magnificent. The current church is the 5th built and is on the campus of the University of San Francisco, this was dedicated on August 2, 1914. When entering one will note the Holy Water in the marble fonts, the floorplan follows that of ancient Roman basilicas. They have one old fashioned confessional used for the Sacrament of Penance. I've been coming here for so many years. Sometimes, when I'm in San Francisco, like today- I'll stop in and pray for my family and friends. For a small donation you can also light candles and say prayers for your loved ones. I lit a candle, one for my mom and the other for my grandmother. The community of Saint Ignatius is active and responsive to community needs through their social ministry programs, such as collecting warm coats and blankets for the needy or making 400 sandwiches for the men in local shelters through the 'Sandwich Ministry' aka 'Saint Vincent De Paul Sandwich Ministry,' (in Fromm Hall). The breathtaking beauty of this Roman Catholic Parish is not to be missed- for Catholics and Non-Catholics alike. I would love to have the Sacrament of Marriage here, seeing that I'm not a registered/active parishioners or USF Alum, those chances are slim. - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Schedule of Masses - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Saturday 8:00 am, 12:05 pm, 5:00 pm (Vigil) Sunday 8:00 am, 9:30 am Contemporary Ensemble, 11:00 am St. Ignatius Choir, 5:00 pm Student Ensemble Weekday 8:00 am , 12:05 pm Holy Day 5:30 pm (Vigil), 8:00 am, 12:05 pm, 5:30 pm - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Sacraments (information as listed on their website) - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - - Baptism Parents who are registered, active parishioners, contact Margaret Walden at least one month prior to arrange for a baptismal date and class (e-mail walden@usfca.edu or phone 422-6520 Marriage Bride or Groom must be registered, active parishioners at St. Ignatius Church for six months prior to choosing a date or requesting Marriage Preparation. University of San Francisco Alumni are eligible to use the church. Marriage preparation must begin six months prior to the wedding. Contact Margaret Walden (e-mail walden@usfca.edu or phone 422-6520) Reconciliation Priests are available in the Reconciliation Chapel in the church Saturdays from 3:45 - 4:45 pm and as available or by appointment. Sacrament of the Sick The second Saturday of the month at the 12:05 pm Mass. Funeral Contact Margaret Walden to arrange (e-mail walden@usfca.edu or phone 422-6520). Noelle's Notes One of my favorite churches. read more

This church holds a very special place in my life. Many milestones have been witnessed by these sacred walls. There are tours available and you are always welcome to come in when the doors are open to light a candle and enjoy the solitude. Mass is wonderful - the sermon is always relevant and timely. Evening mass for the students is also enjoyable. read more

Even if you aren't Catholic. Even if you don't go to USF. Go to this church. It is a beautiful piece of art, and it has a unique San Francisco history. Check it out! read more

My sister was married at St. Ignatious Church, and this church remains one of my favorites. This church is lovely outside, but the interior of the church is so very very beautiful. St. Ignatius reminds me of the churches we've visited in Italy. The architecture needs to be seen in person in order to truly appreciate it. Everything from the stained glass windows to the dome to the massive columns to the altars and everything in between is truly impressive. I wish that I had the gift to describe the church in more detail. Visit for yourself. read more

St. Ignatius is the most beautiful church I have ever seen! I attended mass here one day two years ago on a fluke. I was new to the city and googled the closest Catholic Church and walked about a mile up hill; google map forgot to mention it was one mile up hill, but it was well worth the morning workout. I arrived sweaty and out of breath, however once I walked through the double doors all my negative thoughts went away. During mass I was so distracted by the elaborate art work, stained glass windows, statues and decorations, I almost missed communion! Needless to say, I've been a parishioner ever since. I love the 8am mass on Sundays; it's not crowded, parking is available and there are few to no screaming kids! Yes I said it! I know it sounds horrible, and I don't know about you, but I go to mass for a little peace and quiet and a place to be near God. I love kids, but sometimes it's hard to remember that when they are screaming in your ear or pulling your hair from the pew behind you! But I digress, St. Ignatius is a wonderful place to learn and worship. Hopefully I'll get married there one day, but with that two year waiting list, I need to find my prince charming pretty soon! read more

God- We need to talk about all these 5-star reviews - such blind approval - and you don't even serve food here (-1). As you know, St. Ignatius is my local spot for talking to you - usually as I drive by and say, "Hey God". Despite this convenience, I'm taking stars away from my review because even in this age of conservation they still leave their lights on at night... a lot of them (-1). This is bad, right? I mean, sure, it's a good landmark (+1) and all those lights make it easy to see but those aren't energy efficient bulbs (-1). Also, this math might not add up (+2). -Ryan read more

A BEAUTIFUL church. Perfecto for the type of wedding I will someday have...classic, yet breathtaking. Plus, I love me some Jesuits. Mass, however, is still painfully boring. read more

Attended a wedding here this past weekend. I forgot how grand this church is. High ceilings, stained glass windows, sculptures, candles and lots and lots of pews. I suggest that if you get married here, you really don't need any flowers or decoration. The church itself is so ornate and beautiful that you decor won't be noticed. Scored some free parking at the School of Law parking garage...just make sure once you enter, go to the left. That's where the free parking is. I believe if you go to the right, you have to pay? read more

If you ever want a diva moment and get to visit here, take a walk down the main isle. That slow matrimonial walk. Picture all 2,000 seats filled and watching you. No, don't sashay. Walk slowly down the isle and feel that sweet red carpet. While you're there, check out the St. Ignatius altar and the Virgin of Guadalupe altars. So beautiful! Whether you're graduating here or getting married here, you will fall in love with the place and will always remember how beautiful it is. I should know; I've done both. BTW: those that know know that during the school year there is a Sunday 9PM mass for students which is one of the most wonderful masses in San Francisco. It's warm, friendly and believe it or not is held on the altar. read more

I'm no catholic, but If I was then this would be one of the churches I would consider my wedding at. Came here back in September for a family wedding, and I must say, this was a pretty beautiful church. The architect outside and inside is pretty impressive. The wedding was of course, long. But hey, I'm used to that. The staff seemed pretty helpful and welcoming. I can only imagine what this place looks like when it is completely decked out for someones wedding. read more

Very beautiful on the outside and inside. It's decorated for Christmas and it is absolutely lovely. read more

St. Ignatius Church - Beautiful - Churches Near Me - San Francisco, California

LET'S GET SPIRITUAL... okay maybe I am partial about it since I graduated in it... but by far it is one of the most beautiful churches i have been in here in the states. the stained glass, gold leaf accents, wood floors. Its so incredibly peaceful. Stop by take glance, walk around, hang out... come one come all to god's house. read more

Absolutely beautiful and faithful church that makes you want to worship to your heart and soul's content! It is a warm sanctuary that inspires you to walk in the footsteps of Jesus! read more

Absolutely beautiful inside and located on the USF campus. I just wish there was more free parking available nearby. It's way too congested here. I'm not Catholic but I went for my cousin's wedding. Nobody was judgey and nothing was forced on me. I respect that. read more

My husband and I got married at St. Ignatius Church on 8/10/18, and our wedding ceremony there was more than what we could have ever possibly dreamed. We were extremely blessed to have had the opportunity to be married there, and we would not have it any other way. It was difficult finding a Catholic church that would allow a non-Saturday wedding in San Francisco, but we found 2. Right when my husband and I walked into St. Ignatius, our jaws dropped and we instantly knew this was the church we wanted to get married in. It is absolutely STUNNING (even to this day every time we go in), and it actually matched our wedding reception venue perfectly also. Our St. Ignatius coordinator, Linda, was excellent. Even our reception venue director knew that all the SI coordinators do an exceptional job at coordinating weddings. The only issue we had was during our wedding rehearsal, which ran a little longer than anticipated. Our priest was not a parish priest of St. Ignatius, so him and Linda had some differences regarding the order of the ceremony because they both conduct things differently. However, our whole ceremony went smoothly the day of, and we were able to do all the Filipino traditions we wanted also. Matthew was our cantor and he did an incredible job. All of our family and friends were impressed and said it was absolutely beautiful. Another remarkable time to visit the church is Christmas season. We attended Christmas mass last year, and it was one of the best masses we have been to. The church alone is breathtaking itself, but their decorations are impeccable - there were multiple floating wreaths throughout the church and the altar alone had 13 Christmas trees! read more

I met with Margaret Walden, Reservations Coordinator, during our meeting, she began stereotyping! She said, "Now you MUST be there ON TIME! NOT IRISH TIME, NOT PHILIPPINE TIME, NOT MEXICAN TIME, BUT ON TIME!!! I KNOW HOW "THOSE" MOMS AND AUNTS CAN COME LATE! Wow, what happened to the good honest catholics, instead I was greeted by a prejudiced person. read more

The original St. Ignatius was dedicated in 1880 and stood on the site now occupied by Davies Symphony Hall. After its destruction by fire following the 1906 quake, the Jesuits moved near Golden Gate Park, where a small stucco building served as their church until they acquired the land atop the hill at the corner of Parker Avenue and Fulton Street, where the present structure was consecrated in 1914. Located adjacent to the University of San Francisco campus, its eclectic architecture was inspired by Italian and Spanish Baroque, the works of Sir Christopher Wren, and classic Greek and Roman styles. The twin spires, dominated by urns and angelic figures, give the church a distinctive look. They rise over two hundred feet above the street, and easily can be seen from various sections of the city. Inside, the general layout of the nave is based on the ancient Roman basilica. The half-dome ceiling contains a central stained glass panel representing the Holy Spirit. Worshippers of any faith will find this to be a place conducive to quiet contemplation and self-examination. read more

St. Ignatius Church - Churches Near Me - San Francisco, California

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This is the kind of church that makes me proud to be Catholic. It's gorgeous! Catholics don't skimp on the decorations. Money is no object. A little gilding here, a little flowers there, a little stain glass here, a little statue there, a little marble here, a little painting there. I mean if you've ever been to a Presbyterian church where it's white walls, wooden pews, and a cross you know that some churches can be ug-i-ly! I came here for Easter mass and was thoroughly impressed. There was plenty of room for everyone as this was a gigantic church, I knew the opening song, and they had a full on choir and band. Alleluia, praise the Lord!!! read more

For Catholics: This is a terrific place for Sunday mass. I really liked the 8am mass on Sunday during my two month stay in San Francisco. The Jesuit fathers are the best. I think I heard four different Jesuits over a two month period. Fantastic homilies. Switched on, thoughtful, explicated the Gospel and Old Testament readings. Very thoughtful and thought provoking. Thank you for your calling. This is the best of the Catholic Church. Everyone would be a Catholic if they were inclined towards the faith and attended this Church regularly. I also liked that the votive candles were kept up. Thank you. Many churches one cannot find candles or lighting sticks. Thank you. For Catholics and everyone else: The Church is just gorgeous on the inside. Exquisitely maintained and painted. Absolutely beautiful. It is in a league with churches in Rome (Vatican City). And much cleaner than my favorite cathedrals in Paris. There is tremendous art on the walls. The votive sanctuaries are quite beautiful and moving. There is a small art museum. This is a tourist stop for anyone. I really got a lift everytime I entered St. Ignatius. Awe inspiring. This is a treasure for USF students, San Francisco residents, and all visitors to San Francisco. read more

I don't know who was more surprised - be it myself, the Lady Vader, or the priest - that I didn't burst into flames upon crossing the entryway to this cathedral across the street from...SFSU? Maybe USF. I don't remember. Fuck, it doesn't matter, all the universities within the city are all just striving to create the next generation of beatnik hippies that'll come up with new and interesting ways to make the rest of the galaxy shake their collective heads and go "what the hell is in the water in that city?" Regardless, I somehow managed to make it inside of this cathedral unscathed, and I have to say, I'm immensely impressed...with the architecture. It's absolutely stunning inside, and, so long as you don't make the mistake of showing up during mass like Lady Vader and I did, presents a lot of opportunities for some great photography. As an added bonus, this place is large enough to easily hide an entire battalion of Stormtroopers without detection. I suppose the original intent had something to do with having plenty of places to stash altar boys, but that's probably a different topic for a different day. The size will come in quite handy when I decide to raid the city and see to it that bacon is installed as not only the official food, but also the primary religious symbol. What, you thought I'd install my own image as that? Please! Like I want my name associated with a place that thinks it's a good idea to charge a "Healthy" tax at restaurants in order to provide health care to people who thought they were going to make it big as actors, but ran out of gas 6 hours North of Hollywood and became waiters, instead. Wait, where was I again? Hell, I don't remember. Something about architecture and ball gags, inappropriate use of a smuggling orifice, and what was undoubtedly on track to be the most offensive review I've ever written, but now it's gone. Such is life. Anyhow, gorgeous building. Just don't listen to what the old guy behind the pulpit is saying - it has a nasty way of twisting your mind in ways not even The Force can understand. 4 Deathstars. read more

The building may be pretty, but honestly, the Presbyterians or Episcopalians are way more welcoming, and smarter. Jesus would want you to use your time wisely and go to another church. If you're a Catholic looking for the old Pre-Cana song and dance brace yourself for the old church lady named Margaret. She's one of those creatures who somehow enjoys enforcing a doctrine that she probably picked up from some repressed nuns in grammar school. Where she gets the idea that she's qualified to advise people on marriage is beyond me... read more

What a beautiful Catholic Church. I have always loved this beautifully designed church; from when I was a student on this campus, to now that my son is one. And although not Christian at all, I always try to light a candle there and pray. The last time I was ready to donate money for my candles, and the lady ahead of me paid for me. So nice,... simple things in life are so pleasant.. read more

We picked St. Ignatius out of all the Catholic churches in the city for a few reasons: 1- my now-husband is an alum, so it had a personal meaning to us. 2- really when you look at this church and compare it to the other Catholic churches in the city...well you just can't compare them anymore. It's a stunningly beautiful church. St. Ignatius offers 3 ceremony times per day (11:30, 2:00 and 5:00), but will only do two weddings a day. Of course, the 2:00 time goes fastest, so if you're interested, get in touch with them ASAP! We did 11:30 because 2:00 was already taken, and us ladies had to get up MIGHTY early to get ready, and we had a few hours gap between our ceremony and reception (great for pictures but frustrating for guests not in pictures...although there's no shortage of things to do in the city). The staff who handles weddings are kind of disjointed - we thought we would be dealing with the Sister (who we never ended up even meeting), then all the sudden about two months before the day, we got an email from someone who was our "day of coordinator" with no real transition or explanation that this would be happening. We had also told the Sister repeatedly that we lived outside the city and not in the same state through most of our engagement, specifically regarding the preparation for marriage that you must do to marry in a Catholic Church. It took her until we specifically asked about a retreat program that a friend of ours worked with in a different city that she sent us a list of the approved preparation courses...and at the top of that list was one that was online, meaning we didn't have to travel ANYWHERE and could do it from two different locations if we needed to. It would have relieved a lot of stress the months before to have known that, and this was a PDF list that they clearly had on-hand. Overall I'm glad we had our wedding here, but I would have been a lot less worried about how that was going to work from the beginning if the staff had been more organized. They do weddings here all the time - you'd think there would be a routine set of communications for them. read more