Mission Statement
Saint Andre Bessette Catholic Church proclaims Christ’s healing compassion in downtown Portland. Through prayer and service, we welcome all people to nurture community, restore hope, and share in God’s persistent love. Saint Andre Bessette Catholic Church, known as Portland's downtown chapel since 1919, is located in the heart of downtown Portland, Oregon.
Description
Administered by the Congregation of Holy Cross , we provide hope and healing to the most marginalized members of society. Through prayer, service, education and advocacy, our parish has become a vital resource to our neighborhood and the greater Portland community. Our programs and services include:
MORNING HOSPITALITY: Monday through Thursday. We seek to welcome community members experiencing poverty, homelessness, mental illness, and addiction during Morning Hospitality. Volunteers work in teams providing food, coffee, basic services, and fellowship.
EVENING HOSPITALITY: Every Friday evening our parish invites community members to join us for a warm meal and fellowship in our Hospitality Center. The event is sponsored by a different partner parish or organization each week, supplemented by additional volunteers as needed. The sponsoring group each week prepares the meal and provides volunteers to help serve and build community.
FOOT CARE PROGRAM: Open Wednesdays as part of Morning Hospitality, foot care includes soaking, massage, and basic care from one of our volunteer nurses.
ART PROGRAM: Open two days a week as part of Morning Hospitality, our Art Program provides a safe and supportive space for people to express themselves creatively through different mediums. Workshops are provided seasonally.
FOOD PANTRY: Our Food Pantry provides a monthly bag of groceries to households and individuals who live within our parish boundaries and fall within qualifying income levels.
