We are a people united in love: for Christ and his Church, and the Dominican friars who have faithfully served both, and us, for over one hundred years; for the beauty of the liturgy and of the Tradition, and traditions, that bind us in faith; and for a parish family that, though drawn from many parts of the city and beyond, feels in every way like home.

Many things change with time, and a parish is no exception. No longer do sisters teach at the school, nor is there a parish school in which to teach. The church is no longer nestled in a quiet neighborhood of single-family homes; in fact, few houses remain within walking distance, long since replaced by the Convention Center and Coliseum, Lloyd Center Mall, and block after block of stores and fast-food chains offering things you may-or may not- need. There are even changes in the parish itself; clubs and organizations begin, fill a purpose, and die out, only to be replaced by new responses to a new generation’s needs. Time doesn’t stand still, nor should it. But some things are outside time, some things are eternal, and it those things we hold dear as a parish.

A strong source of continuity through decades of change has been the presence of the Dominicans, so vital to our identity and the wellspring of great spiritual blessings. The Most Rev. William Gross, third Archbishop of Portland, had a great devotion to Our Lady. Confident that the Dominican Order would do much to spread this devotion, he invited the Western Dominican Province to establish a parish in Portland. The offer was accepted, and under the name “Queen of the Most Holy Rosary” our parish was born. We are not “Holy Rosary” in name alone. Seated in the church, we are encompassed by its prayerful embrace. The glorious, joyful and sorrowful mysteries shine in brilliant stained glass across the north and south walls, while overhead on the ceiling is a newly installed mural of the luminous mysteries by parishioner Martha Williams.

Just as we are defined by our Dominican identity and united in liturgical and devotional practice, we share a common fidelity to the timeless revelation of the Church. We value our heritage, hold dear the dignity of both the born and unborn, and dearly cherish the great gifts of life and of our Catholic faith.

We invite you to browse our website to learn more about the devotions, the liturgies, the music, and the opportunities for fellowship, education and service that Holy Rosary offers.