Father David Schunk installed as pastor of St. Stephen Catholic Church
By Mary Powers
On October 27, St. Stephen parish in San Francisco celebrated the installation of Father David Schunk as its eleventh pastor, an event marked by a joyful Mass celebrated by Archbishop Salvatore J. Cordileone.
The liturgy included a special rite of installation and the reading of Father Schunk’s appointment letter by Father Dan Nascimento, pastor of St. Anne of the Sunset Church. Archbishop Cordileone presented Father Schunk to the parish leadership, including the pastoral council and parish staff, emphasizing the importance of collaboration in ministry.
As part of the installation rite, Father Schunk made an oath of fidelity to the teachings of the Catholic Church, affirming his commitment to lead the parish according to the Church’s teachings. He also led the congregation in the Creed.
“It gives me particular happiness today as I officially install Father Schunk as your pastor because I think he’s very well suited for this role, for this very high calling,” Archbishop Cordileone said in his homily. “He has a breadth of experience that will enrich his ministry here at St. Stephen.”
Father Schunk comes to St. Stephen parish having previously served as the administrator at St. Monica-St. Thomas the Apostle parish. He also served as the vice-rector of the North American College in Rome from 2017 – 2023 and the vocations director for the Archdiocese of San Francisco from 2013 – 2017.
The Mass was attended by St. Stephen parishioners, teachers and the principal of St. Stephen School, Sharon McCarthy Allen, as well as members of the Archdiocesan Eucharistic Revival Committee that Father Schunk has led since returning from Rome in 2023. The presence of Father Schunk’s family—his parents, aunts, uncles, and godmother—added a personal touch to the celebration, highlighting the support he has from his loved ones as he embarks on this important ministry.
With his installation, Father David Schunk looks forward to fostering a spirit of unity and growth within St. Stephen parish, leading the community in faith and service.
