Mary Magdalene Church was born in 2009, when founding pastor Rev. (now Bishop) Denise Donato felt called to plant a church in the eastern suburbs of Rochester that would be rooted in the Catholic spiritual tradition, but open and embracing to all - including women, the LGBTQIA+ community, and people of all faith backgrounds. In its early days, MMC was a grassroots church, that at different times met in a storefront and in a bank, before moving to its current home. Since then, our community has grown and thrived. To this day, we remain rooted in the same core mission; to embody a rich Catholic spirituality through a vibrant Mass, a full sacramental life, a social outreach focused on the vulnerable, and a centering in the radical kindness of Jesus, while practicing extravagant welcome to all (especially folks who have felt marginalized in the institutional church). ​

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If you cherish the depth and mission-focus of Catholic faith; if you love the mystery of the Mass, the example of people like Saint Francis and Dorothy Day and Daniel Berrigan, or the spiritual power of Mary, the Eucharist, or the saints...but find yourself yearning for a church that reflects the radical inclusion of Jesus - you have come to the right place! We can't wait to meet you. Welcome home!

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