Founded in 1959, St. Hugh parish has served the multicultural and multiethnic communities of Coconut Grove. The parish’s first Mass was celebrated at Playhouse Theater and later at Coconut Grove Elementary School. In 1960, Father Charles Ward built the church which was dedicated by then Bishop Coleman Carroll.

St. Augustine Mission School, operated under
the auspices of Holy Redeemer parish, became
St. Hugh School, the first integrated school in
the diocese.

The parish has been blessed with dedicated pastors: Father George Bucko, Father Anthony Navarrete, Msgr. John Glorie, Father John Vaughan and Father George Garcia. With the generous help of parishioners and school parents, Msgr. Glorie built a new school next to the church in 1981, which is also used for religious education.

The parish has ministered with care to patients at Coral Gables Hospital. The Grove Outreach program started by Father Vaughan has served needy families in the area, offering free food, medical and legal care. The community has ministered to many young couples who have chosen to celebrate their wedding in the beautiful church. St. Hugh’s parish community joyfully thanks the Lord for the many blessings it has received and generously shared with
others throughout these years.