We Welcome You in The Spirit of Christ and Thank You for Your Presence!
Our Mission:
“Centered on the loving presence of our Lord Jesus in the Holy Eucharist, St. Stephen is an inviting Catholic community. Inspired by the Word of God and attentive to the challenges of our time, we are committed to nurturing the spiritual growth of all people. Following the example of Jesus, we respond to those in need, especially the poor and weak, and so reveal His self-giving love to others.”
Our Parish Goals
- To deepen and enhance the spiritual life of the parish through liturgy, personal prayer, and devotions.
- To provide religious education and spiritual formation to all people.
- To minister to those within and outside the parish community.
- To deepen our commitment to stewardship of prayer, time, and talent, and treasure.
- To celebrate our diversity and our community.
A Rich History, A Rich Tradition
Do you have a snapshot from the past at St. Stephen? We’d love to share it on our website. Simply email your photos to Jodie Tully or contact the Parish office.
Our Journey Through Time:
December 5, 1984
Bishop Thomas Grady approved the creation of St. Stephen Catholic Church to serve the rapidly growing East Seminole county area.
February 5, 1985
The Orlando Diocese announced the assignment of Fr. John J. Bluett as the Founding Pastor of St. Stephen Catholic Church.
June 16, 1985
Fr. John celebrated the First Eucharistic liturgy of St. Stephen with 800 members at Lake Howell High School.
February 22, 1986
This date marks the groundbreaking ceremony on the future building site of St. Stephen with Bishop Grady, representative clergy and over 450 guests participating.
April 16, 1987
A dream was fulfilled with the parish family in the first Eucharistic Celebration on Holy Thursday in the newly completed church. At this Easter Vigil, 15 Catechumens and Candidates prepared through the RCIA process were initiated and received into Full Communion with the Catholic Church.
January 2001 Fr. George Dunne, s.s.s began his ministry at St. Stephen Catholic Church.
June 9, 2012
St. Stephen Catholic Church welcomed our first Deacon, Jim Ferruzzi, who was ordained by Bishop John Noonan.
June 10, 2012
On this day, St. Stephen Catholic Church began a year of celebration to commemorate 25 years of Faith, Eucharist and Outreach.
June 24, 2012
Associate Pastor Fr. George Dunne, s.s.s. celebrated 30 years of Priestly Ordination.
June 2, 2013
Our Pastor, Fr. John Bluett, celebrated 50 years of Ordination to the Catholic Priesthood.
June 13, 2021
Fr. John Bluett and Fr. George Dunne retired from active duty.
June 14, 2021
The Orlando Diocese announced the assignment of Fr. John C. Giel as the Pastor of St. Stephen Catholic Church.
July 1, 2023 Fr. George A. Nursey began his assignment as the next Pastor of St. Stephen Catholic Church.