6 Catholic Churches in Ventura County Worth Encountering
Ventura County is home to some of the most beautiful and spiritually enriching Catholic churches, making it a great destination for those seeking a meaningful worship experience. From a historic basilica to stunning chapels, these sacred spaces invite both locals and visitors to encounter the divine through mass, prayer, and architectural beauty.
As residents of Ventura County, we’ve experienced many Catholic churches in the area. We’ve curated six special gems for Catholic mass experiences in Ventura County.
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1. Mission Basilica San Buenaventura
Address: 211 E Main St, Ventura, CA 93001
Why visit
Known as Ventura County’s only mission-turned-basilica, Mission Basilica San Buenaventura is rich in history and spiritual significance. Established in 1782 by Saint JunÃpero Serra, this sacred site continues to be a beacon for Catholics across the region.
The Mission Basilica San Buenaventura offers visitors an opportunity to explore its rich history with a self-guided tour. You can wander at your own pace as you discover treasures that include the stunning Mission Basilica Church, Michelangelo’s Pietà , and the serene Garden and Grotto. Get lost in stories of faith and heritage while viewing first- and second-class relics.
History
This mission is the ninth of the 21 California missions established by the Spanish Franciscans. Located in present-day Ventura, California, it was named after Saint Bonaventure, a 13th-century Franciscan saint. The mission originally aimed to evangelize the Chumash people, who inhabited the region. Over the years, the mission became a center of agriculture, producing crops such as wheat, barley, and beans, and was prominent for its vineyards and orchards. Despite its success, the mission faced challenges including attacks from hostile indigenous groups and periods of drought.
In the 1830s, secularization policies led to the transfer of mission lands to private ownership, but the church itself remained an active parish. Restorations in the 20th century preserved its historic architecture, making Mission San Buenaventura a significant cultural and historical landmark today.
Highlights
- Historic charm: Walk in the footsteps of California’s early settlers and experience worship in this centuries-old mission.
- Stunning pipe organ: The basilica is home to an Austin pipe organ that was recently refurbished, filling the space with heavenly music.
- Designated basilica: Its elevated status as a basilica reflects its significance in the Catholic Church.
We have made the annual Serra Pilgrimage over the last few years from Mission Santa Barbara to Basilica Mission San Buenaventura. You can find more information about this 35-mile walk and other spiritual experiences on our post: Discovering the most inspiring USA pilgrimage walks
Mission Basilica San Buenaventura Information
Website: https://www.sanbuenaventuramission.org/
St Mary Magdalen Chapel – Camarillo, CA
2. St. Mary Magdalen Chapel – Camarillo
Address: 2532 Ventura Blvd, Camarillo, CA 93010
Why visit
For those yearning for a Traditional Latin Mass experience, the St. Mary Magdalen Chapel in Camarillo is a must-visit. It’s the only church in Ventura County where you can participate in this reverent and historical form of worship, which has been celebrated for centuries. The Latin Mass is celebrated on Sunday mornings at 10 am and is typically conducted as a high mass with schola, choir, and organ.
Note for visitors – the chapel of St. Mary Magdalen in Camarillo (Ventura Boulevard location) is part of the St. Mary Magdalen parish church found nearby on Las Posas Road. Two distinct church buildings at two individual locations form this parish.
History
Established in 1913 by Juan and Adolfo Camarillo, this magnificent chapel was constructed to honor their parents, Don Juan Camarillo and Martina Hernandez. Inspired by the mission-style churches near their father’s birthplace in Mexico City, the brothers commissioned architect Albert C. Martin to create a structure that blended California’s mission heritage with unique architectural details. The chapel’s white stucco exterior, red tile roofing, and vibrant stained glass windows tell tales of faith, family, and perseverance. The Camarillo family spared no details, incorporating hand-carved sanctuary pews, warm wooden beams, and intricate marble altars to create a sacred and welcoming space for the community.
Over the years, St. Mary Magdalen Chapel has become more than just a religious institution; it is a historical icon. The chapel endured challenges, from the delayed arrival of stained glass windows lost during World War I to damages caused by fire, yet it has remained a cherished part of the community. Its legacy extends beyond worship, serving as the final resting place for many members of the Camarillo family and a place of celebration for significant milestones, such as weddings and baptisms.
Gifted to the Los Angeles Archdiocese in 1940, the chapel has cemented its role as a beacon for faith and history, drawing visitors eager to admire its architecture and learn more about its storied past. Today, St. Mary Magdalen Chapel continues to inspire, as its belfry tower rises high, calling all to pause and reflect amidst the area’s beauty.
Highlights
- Traditional Latin Mass: Connect with the beauty of a centuries-old liturgy that features Gregorian chants, incense, and the Latin language.
- Chapel ambiance: The serene setting enhances introspection and prayerful reflection.
- Historic significance: This church plays a vital role in keeping ancient liturgical traditions alive for the Ventura community.
St Mary Magdalen Chapel Information
Church website: https://www.smmcam.org/
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Pgnielsen79, CC BY 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
3. Chapel of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity at Thomas Aquinas College – Santa Paula
Why visit
Located on the scenic campus of Thomas Aquinas College in Santa Paula, the Chapel of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity is a stunning masterpiece of classical design. Created by renowned University of Notre Dame architect Duncan Stroik, in collaboration with former college president Thomas E. Dillon, the chapel beautifully marries architectural elements of the Western tradition.
The interiors are reminiscent of the grand basilicas found in Italy, creating an exquisite and awe-inspiring atmosphere. Its dome symbolizes the college’s connection to the Catholic faith, while its bell tower reflects California’s historic Mission heritage. Inside, visitors are greeted by sacred artwork, original statues, and Biblical inscriptions, all purposefully designed to inspire reflection and spiritual growth. A true “church that teaches,” this chapel stands as a beacon of faith, tradition, and timeless beauty.
Highlights
- Italian charm in California: The chapel’s frescoes, stained glass windows, and intricate wood carvings evoke the artistry of European basilicas.
- Spiritual serenity: Its peaceful environment is perfect for prayer and meditation.
- Mass experience: Worship in this magnificent space is an unforgettable spiritual and aesthetic adventure.
Chapel of Our Lady of the Most Holy Trinity at Thomas Aquinas College Information
Website: https://www.thomasaquinas.edu/a-catholic-life/ca-chapel
4. Saints Peter & Paul Maronite Church in Simi Valley
Why visit
The Maronite Church in Simi Valley offers a unique opportunity to experience the richness of the Maronite Rite, while remaining unmistakably Catholic. This Eastern Catholic tradition embraces its roots in Lebanon, blending cultural and liturgical treasures.
The Maronite Rite
The Maronite Rite is an Eastern Catholic liturgical rite that traces its origins back to the early Christian community founded by St. Maron in the region of modern-day Lebanon. It is among the Eastern Catholic Churches that retain their own traditions and liturgical practices while being in full communion with the Roman Catholic Church.
The Maronite Church preserves a rich heritage that includes the use of the Syriac language in its liturgy and distinct theological emphases drawn from its Eastern roots. Despite these unique characteristics, Maronites recognize the authority of the Pope in Rome, which strengthens their ecclesial ties with the broader Catholic Church. This connection exemplifies the diversity within unity that characterizes the global Catholic community.
Highlights
- Distinctive liturgy: Discover the poetic prayers, Syriac chants, and Middle Eastern traditions that shape the Maronite liturgy.
- Inclusive spirituality: While unique, the Maronite Rite welcomes all Catholics to participate fully.
- Community warmth: Worship alongside a welcoming and close-knit congregation.
Saints Peter & Paul Maronite Church Information
Website: https://www.sppmaronite.com/
Cbl62 at English Wikipedia, CC BY-SA 3.0 https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/3.0, via Wikimedia Commons
5. Santa Clara Church and Santa Clara Chapel in Oxnard
Why visit
Among Ventura County’s Catholic gems, the Santa Clara Church and its accompanying chapel stand out for their historical significance and architectural beauty. Located in Oxnard, they serve as inviting spaces for worship and personal reflection.
Highlights
- Schoenstein pipe organ: Santa Clara Church is home to a 20-rank Schoenstein pipe organ.
- Architectural elegance: The designs exude traditional charm, offering a sense of timelessness and solemnity.
- Sense of community: The warm and welcoming parish invites all to share in its spiritual traditions.
6. St. Mary Magdalen Church
Why visit
St Mary Magdalen Church in Camarillo, situated on Las Posas Road, is an inviting destination and our favorite church in the county for the Novus Ordo celebration of the Roman Catholic Mass. Its tranquil environment provides a peaceful retreat for those seeking spiritual reflection or a moment away from the hustle and bustle of everyday life.
The church is also cherished for its vibrant community and welcoming congregation, offering an opportunity for visitors to connect and feel a sense of belonging.
Highlights
- Music Program: The music program at St. Mary Magdalen is strong and ranges from a youth schola that sings chant and polyphony monthly to its chamber choir, main choir, youth group, and Spanish musicians.
- Multi-Lingual Congregation: You’ll find masses for English and Spanish regularly. And the parish has a strong Vietnamese and Filipino community, too.
St. Mary Magdalen Church Information
Website: https://www.smmcam.org/
Pipe Organs in Ventura County Catholic Churches
Pipe organs are a defining feature of Catholic churches, creating a majestic sound that adds depth and reverence to any liturgy. Ventura County is fortunate to have several Catholic churches that maintain this beautiful tradition.
- Santa Clara Church in Oxnard features a 20-rank Schoenstein pipe organ.
- Mission Basilica San Buenaventura has an Austin pipe organ that was brilliantly restored, continuing to inspire worshippers through its music.
- St. Paschal Baylon in Thousand Oaks is another treasure, featuring its own magnificent pipe organ to enhance the liturgical experience.
Whether you’re a music enthusiast or simply someone seeking deeper spiritual immersion, the pipe organ performances in these churches will leave you in awe.
More Catholic Churches in Ventura County
Camarillo – Padre Serra Catholic Church
Fillmore – Saint Francis of Assisi Catholic Church
Moorpark – Holy Cross Church
Newbury Park – St. Julie Billiart Catholic Church
Oxnard – Mary Star of the Sea Catholic Church
Oxnard – Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
Oxnard – Santa Clara Roman Catholic Church
Oxnard – St. Anthony’s Church
Santa Paula – Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish
Santa Paula – Saint Sebastian Catholic Church
Simi Valley – St. Peter Claver Catholic Church
Simi Valley – St. Rose of Lima Catholic Church
Thousand Oaks – St Paschal Baylon Church
Ventura – Our Lady of the Assumption
Ventura – Sacred Heart Catholic Church
Plan Your Visit
Each of these exceptional Catholic churches in Ventura County offers something unique, whether it’s historical significance, rich liturgy, or breathtaking architecture. No matter which you choose to visit, you’re bound to leave with a renewed spirit and lasting memories of sacred beauty.
Thanks for reading this article. We hope to see you at the places where we go!Â
Julie & Art
