Regular schedule
September & June
- Monday to Friday 7:15 am · 10:00 am · 1:00 pm
- Saturdays 10:00 am · 7:30 pm
- Sundays & Holy Days 10:00 am · 11:30 am · 1:00 pm
Saints Peter and Paul Church
in San Francisco
San Francisco, United States
Church Details
666 Filbert St, San Francisco, CA 94133, United States
Accessible
Parking available
Family friendly
Mass Times
Summer schedule
July & August
- Monday to Friday 10:00 am · 7:30 pm
- Saturdays & Vigils 10:00 am · 7:30 pm
- Sundays & Holy Days 10:00 am · 12:30 pm · 7:30 pm
Saints Peter and Paul Church
History of Church
Saints Peter and Paul Church in San Francisco (California)
Saints Peter and Paul Church: general information
Saints Peter and Paul Church is one of the most iconic Catholic churches in San Francisco, often called the “Italian Cathedral of the West.” Located in the heart of North Beach, facing Washington Square, it is a spiritual home for local parishioners, families, visitors and pilgrims who come to pray, attend Mass or simply admire the beauty of the church.
In Saints Peter and Paul Church the parish community celebrates the daily Eucharist, as well as baptisms, first communions, confirmations, weddings and other sacramental celebrations. The church also hosts youth and adult faith formation groups, choirs, community events and devotional gatherings. It is a place where people can find silence, prayer, reconciliation and a living Catholic community in the middle of the city.
History and architecture of Saints Peter and Paul Church
Saints Peter and Paul Church was built as a landmark for the Catholic and Italian community of San Francisco. The current church, with its impressive twin spires, dates from the early 20th century and combines neo-Gothic inspiration with classic basilica elements. Its façade, rose window and tall towers are clearly visible from different points of North Beach, making it one of the most recognisable silhouettes in the city.
Inside, the church offers a large central nave, side chapels, stained-glass windows and devotional images that reflect the faith and history of the parish. The high altar, the marble details and the paintings invite visitors to contemplation and prayer. Over the years, careful restoration and maintenance work has preserved the building and safeguarded its artistic and spiritual heritage.
Architectural and devotional features
- Main nave and sanctuary: a wide, bright space designed to gather a large assembly for Sunday Masses, feast days and special celebrations.
- Side chapels and shrines: dedicated to different saints and Marian devotions where the faithful come for personal prayer and to light candles.
- Façade and twin spires: a key element of the North Beach skyline, visible from Washington Square and the surrounding streets.
- Organ and choir loft: spaces reserved for sacred music that enriches the liturgy and occasional concerts.
Masses and usual schedule
The Mass schedule at Saints Peter and Paul Church may vary according to the liturgical season (Advent, Christmas, Lent, Easter and Ordinary Time) and parish calendar (solemnities, special feasts, parish missions, retreats and other events). The following is an orientation only of how Mass times are often organised in a central city parish.
Typical Mass times (guideline)
- Weekdays: one or more Masses in the morning and/or at midday or early evening, so that workers, neighbours and visitors can attend before or after work.
- Saturdays and vigil Mass: an evening vigil Mass that fulfils the Sunday obligation for those who cannot attend on Sunday.
- Sundays and holy days: several Masses distributed throughout the morning (for example, between roughly 8:00 and 13:00) and sometimes an additional afternoon or evening Mass, in English and occasionally in other languages, depending on the needs of the community.
Recommendation: before going, it is always best to check the current Mass schedule through the official channels of Saints Peter and Paul Church (parish website, bulletin or parish office), as special celebrations or seasonal changes may temporarily modify the usual timetable.
How to get to Saints Peter and Paul Church
Saints Peter and Paul Church is located in North Beach, San Francisco, facing Washington Square Park. The area is walkable, surrounded by cafés, restaurants and historic streets. Many visitors arrive on foot from nearby neighbourhoods such as Chinatown or Fisherman’s Wharf, enjoying the characteristic atmosphere of this part of the city.
Access and visit recommendations
- If you visit on weekends, major feasts or holidays, it is wise to arrive a little early to find a seat, especially for the most crowded Masses.
- Public transport (Muni bus and nearby stops) is often the most convenient option. For those arriving by car, there are public parking garages and on-street parking in the surrounding area, though spaces may be limited at peak times.
- For tourists and pilgrims, the church offers an atmosphere of silence and prayer. Visitors are invited to respect ongoing liturgical celebrations and maintain a reverent attitude inside the church.
Parish life and pastoral services
Saints Peter and Paul Church is not only an architectural landmark but also a living parish community. Throughout the year it hosts parish groups, youth ministry, catechesis, prayer meetings, social outreach programs and cultural events. The parish seeks to offer a welcoming environment to families, long-time residents, newcomers and visitors from many different countries.
The pastoral team places special emphasis on hospitality, sacramental life and spiritual accompaniment. Confessions are offered on specific days and before certain Masses; couples and families receive guidance in preparation for baptisms, first communion, confirmation and marriage. The parish also collaborates with charitable initiatives, supporting people and families in situations of need within the wider San Francisco community.
Areas of activity
- Catechesis and faith formation: programmes for children, teenagers and adults who wish to deepen their Christian faith and prepare for the sacraments.
- Liturgy and music ministry: choirs and musicians who accompany Masses and special celebrations with sacred music.
- Prayer and devotions: rosaries, Eucharistic adoration, novenas and other devotional practices that foster personal and communal prayer.
- Service and outreach: parish initiatives and collaborations aimed at supporting those who are vulnerable or in difficulty in the local area.
Frequently asked questions about Saints Peter and Paul Church
Where is Saints Peter and Paul Church located?
Saints Peter and Paul Church is located in the North Beach neighbourhood of San Francisco, California, directly facing Washington Square Park. It is easy to reach on foot from many points in the city centre and is surrounded by historic streets, cafés and local shops.
How can I check the Mass times at Saints Peter and Paul Church?
The Mass times at Saints Peter and Paul Church may change according to the liturgical season and parish activities. To avoid confusion, it is best to consult the official parish website, the parish bulletin or contact the parish office directly. This is especially important before attending special celebrations such as weddings, baptisms or major feasts.
Which sacraments are celebrated at Saints Peter and Paul Church?
At Saints Peter and Paul Church, the parish community usually celebrates the sacraments of Baptism, Reconciliation, Eucharist, Confirmation and Matrimony, and offers the Anointing of the Sick when needed. Preparation normally involves a pastoral and catechetical process, with meetings, paperwork and accompaniment provided by the parish staff.
Can I visit Saints Peter and Paul Church as a tourist?
Yes. Many people visit Saints Peter and Paul Church because of its spiritual significance and historical value, or as part of their visit to North Beach. As the church is an active place of worship, visitors are asked to maintain a respectful silence, especially during Mass or other liturgical celebrations. The visit is a good opportunity to discover the church’s architecture, artworks and atmosphere of prayer.
In a few lines:
- Name: Saints Peter and Paul Church
- City: San Francisco (California) · North Beach – Washington Square
- Role: active Catholic parish church; daily prayer, sacraments and community life
- Architecture: large central nave, side chapels, stained-glass windows and twin spires
- Mass schedule: always check current times with the parish before your visit