St. Michael the Archangel

http://www.stmichaelportland.org/

St. Michael the Archangel is located in downtown Portland on the southwest side, not too far from Portland State University. It is kitty-corner from St. Mary's Academy. It's location is important to its character. Before Urban Renewal changed the face of this part of Portland in the 1960's, southwest Portland was home to large Italian and Jewish populations. That St. Michael's was predominantly an Italian parish can be seen from the names of Italian families that sponsored the stain-glass windows of the church.

Although tucked into downtown Portland onto a crowded half-block, the church contains a special surprise for garden-lovers. Someone has planted and maintained fruit trees, bushes and plants of all sorts along the edges of the property. There are many types of fruits: espaliered pears and apples, kiwis, raspberries and more. On a early summer day, the garden is a delight and it alone is worth a visit.

Father James Mayo is the current pastor of St. Michael's. Fr. Mayo is a friendly and caring pastor and his sermons reflect his love of learning.

St. Michael's ministries include reaching out to the poor by providing sack lunches from 10 to 11 am each weekday. Confessions are heard six days a week.