Pastor
gmockelsmparish.org
Father George Mockel was born and raised in Oakland, and has spent most of his time in the East Bay. After studies at St. Patrick’s College and Seminary in Mountain View and Menlo Park, he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Floyd Begin in 1975.
He notes that the priesthood is more of a life than a job. He has served in many roles and at many places at the request of the various bishops of Oakland: including his first assignment at Assumption Parish in San Leandro; summer studies in Canon Law at Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. and work in the Diocese of Oakland's Canon Law department as the Presiding Judge; then time as pastor at Saint Agnes in Concord; service as Vicar General for multiple Bishops; and of course, as pastor here at Santa Maria.
Of the many ways Father George serves the Church, his favorite part about being a priest is celebrating the Sacraments, especially Mass and presiding at Confirmations throughout the Diocese. When he’s not at the parish or the Diocesan offices, you might find him in the pool or tending his gardens.
In September 2015, Father George was in Washington, DC and Philadelphia for the Holy Father's Papal visit. You can find his reflections and photos from the visit at The Catholic Voice.
