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Our Parish

A History of
Faith & Community.

Saint Thomas More Catholic Church has served the Boynton Beach community for decades — a vibrant family united by the sacraments, prayer, and the mission of Christ.

Our Story

Parish History.

1960s

Parish Founded

Saint Thomas More Catholic Church was established to serve the growing Catholic community in Boynton Beach, Florida, under the Diocese of Palm Beach.

1990s

Growth & Expansion

The parish campus expanded significantly, including the construction of the main church building, chapel, and the establishment of parish gardens and spiritual spaces.

2000s

Fr. Harris Era Begins

Father Julian Harris became pastor, bringing innovative ministry including live streaming and technology integration — making STM a pioneer among Florida parishes.

2024

New Leadership

Fr. Harris transitioned to Pastor Emeritus, with Fr. Alex Vargas appointed Parochial Administrator, continuing the parish's vibrant mission into a new era.

Pastoral Leadership

Our Clergy.

Portrait of a Catholic priest in clerical collar, warm smile, professional setting, natural light
Current Administrator
Current Pastor

Rev. Alex J. Vargas Hernández

Parochial Administrator

Father Alex Vargas was appointed Parochial Administrator of Saint Thomas More in 2024, bringing youthful energy and deep pastoral commitment to the parish. Previously serving as Parochial Vicar at STM, he knows and loves this community deeply. Under his leadership, the parish continues its mission of welcoming all in Jesus' name.

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Pastor Emeritus
Longtime Main Pastor

Rev. Julian P. Harris

Pastor Emeritus

Father Julian Harris served as the beloved pastor of Saint Thomas More for many years, transforming the parish through his integration of technology into ministry — including live streaming Mass at a time when few parishes had done so. His dedication to the sacramental life and community outreach shaped the parish's identity. In May 2024, he was honored with the title Pastor Emeritus.

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Spanish Ministries
Academy & Spanish Ministries

Rev. Fredy Mendez Lopez

Parochial Administrator

Father Fredy Mendez Lopez serves as Parochial Administrator for the Academy and Spanish Ministries at Saint Thomas More, leading the vibrant Spanish-language faith community and overseeing parish educational programs.

Permanent Deacon

Rev. Mr. Silvio Menéndez

Serving the parish community through the permanent diaconate — assisting at Mass, baptisms, and parish ministries.

Sacred Spaces

Parish Gardens
& Grounds.

The campus of Saint Thomas More features beautiful spiritual gardens for quiet meditation, prayer, and devotion.

Peaceful Catholic garden with stone statue, lush greenery, soft sunlight, contemplative atmosphere

Saint Peregrine Garden

A place of prayer and healing for those suffering from illness, dedicated to the patron saint of cancer patients.

Tranquil garden with flowers and stone path, warm afternoon light, peaceful and serene outdoor space

Saint Francis Memorial Garden

A blessed garden for the memorial of beloved pets, reflecting St. Francis's love for all of God's creatures.

Stone niche with Catholic statue in a garden, candles, flowers, warm golden light, devotional setting

Saint Padre Pio Niche

A sacred niche honoring the beloved stigmatist and mystic, inviting parishioners to pray for his intercession.

Our Mission

A People to Join.

“We are a diverse church family with a great history and an even brighter future. The church is not just a place to go, but a people to join — welcoming all in Jesus' name.”

Saint Thomas More Catholic Church · Diocese of Palm Beach