In 1985, with the diocese of San Diego experiencing rapid growth, then Bishop Leo T Maher called for the creation of several new parishes. Among them would be one for southern Escondido to help relieve the burgeoning St. Mary's Parish in central Escondido.
The Parish was named for St. Timothy, a timid and affectionate young man, and faithful follower of St. Paul. He was the son of a Greek father and Jewish mother and became a missionary with St. Paul and later a Bishop. He withnessed Mary's departure from this world and was martyred an A.D. 97. he is considered the Patron Saint of stomach disorders and his Feast Day is celebrated on January 24th.
Fr. Jim Rafferty, who had served all his priesthood in the Diocese of San Diego, and at the time was an Associate Pastor of Our Lady of Mt Carmel Parish in Rancho Penasquitos, was elected to head the new Church of St. Timothy. His first duties included helping to define the Parish boundries, find a rectory and a suitable location in which to celebrate mass.
A private residence at the corner of Via Rancho Parkway and Quiet Hills Drive/Felicita Avenue was purchased to serve as the rectory, a chapel for weekday services, and parish offices.
Sunday Masses were celebrated at the auditorium of Del Dios Middle school, the first occuring on October 26, 1985. At that time the Parish numbered about 150 families. The Parish found its strength and energy, its love and warmth, in parishoners, not a building.
In time, a site was purchased for a new church on Canyon Road, financed through fund raising efforts and Diocesan assistance. The first mass was celebrated in the new church on April 28, 1996.
Officeas and meeting rooms were completed in the Church basement in 1998 and plans were underway to add a kitchen and other meeting rooms unsing funds received from the sale of the rectory.
Fr. Jim Rafferty continued as our Pastor until 2006. Our Parish has grown to approximately 1000 families: however the warmth and friendliness of our Parish community remains as our major strength.