Time Line

       The property at 701 Gamble was purchased in 1942 sat unused until local support for the building of a separate chapel on Gamble street property was generated in 1950 by Dr. Edwin M. Thorpe, Florida A&M University registrar and assistant Historical records show that the successful development of a viable Catholic community at Florida A&M University was largely due to the work of a single priest, Father Salvatore Profeta, first fulltime pastor from 1953 to1957. Father Profeta became affectionately known as "Father Sam. The 1976 "Gracida" History describes his impact as Follows: "During that time he called forth a small community who remain to this day the strength of the black Catholic leadership in Tallahassee. The number was small but the dedication was generous, courageous and enduring.

Founders

     From 1957 to 1976, the history of St. Eugene Chapel is currently sketchy. After Father Profeta's departure, priests assigned to Blessed Sacrament Parish served the liturgical and sacramental needs of St. Eugene.  From 1976 to 1983, St. Eugene was not used for Catholic religious activities.  It was used as a nursery, a protestant church and a residence for Korean Families.

     In June, 1990, Father Sebastian"Seb" Naslund became Pastor and the chapel was reopened in the second week of August. Father Seb had a vision, skills and passion to rebuild the Catholic community. The summer of 1992, Father Semanhyia Boateng-Mensah, affectionately known as "Father Boat" became Chaplain and administrator. He served for 11years before moving on to Boca Raton Florida.

:  During the fall of 2003, St. Eugene welcomed Rev. F. Ilesanmi  Osasona, MSP, a priest of  the Missionary Society of St Paul of Nigeria, as Pastor and Administrator. Through his energy and determination a new era is beginning for St. Eugene, a church where the doors will never again close.