Walking with the Birmingham community since 1937
Rooted in faith and compassion, the Passionists have served the Birmingham community since 1937, building schools, and places of worship that continue to uplift and empower today.
Inspired by the Passionist charism, the mission to walk with those who suffer and bring hope to all endures in Birmingham today.
Current ministries
Holy Family Catholic Academy
Birmingham, AL
Holy Family Cristo Rey Catholic High School
Birmingham, AL
Holy Family Parish
Birmingham, AL
St. Joseph Parish
Birmingham, AL
St. Mary’s Parish
Fairfield, AL
A Mission Rooted in Compassion
The Passionist ministry in Alabama began in 1937, when Fr. Cornelius McGraw, CP, was sent to Birmingham in response to Pope Pius XI’s call to serve the Black community in the United States. With the blessing of Bishop Thomas J. Toolen, the Passionists laid the foundation for Holy Family Parish, a ministry that would grow to encompass spiritual, educational and healthcare services rooted in the love of Christ.
From Humble Beginnings to Lasting Impact
In 1938, a rented dance hall at Tuxedo Junction became the first church, school and rectory of Holy Family. With the help of dedicated priests, sisters and laypeople, the parish quickly expanded.
A clinic, Holy Family Dispensary, was started in 1939 and later grew into a hospital. Schools were built, staffed by religious sisters and welcomed generations of students.
By 1945, Holy Family Elementary School was recognized as one of Birmingham’s finest.
Throughout the 1950s and ’60s, new buildings were added, including a hospital, a high school and a gymnasium. These efforts weren’t just about facilities. They were about creating a strong, faith-filled community.
Over time, the parish nurtured leaders from within: principals, deacons, religious sisters, counselors and community advocates, all helping to continue the mission.
St. Mary’s: A Sister Parish with Shared Roots
In 1943, Holy Family founded St. Mary’s, a mission church in Fairfield. Within a few years, St. Mary’s had its own school (now closed), staffed by the Sisters of St. Francis from Joliet, Illinois.
A Shared Vision for the Future
As our Birmingham ministries continue their mission in the 21st century, they remain deeply rooted in the Passionist charism: walking with those who suffer, promoting justice and living the hope of the Resurrection in their neighborhoods and beyond.