Patron Saint: The Catholic Church in Pokhara is dedicated to Saint Ann (also spelled Anne or Anna), the mother of Mother Mary and grandmother of Jesus. Her feast is celebrated on 26 July every year.
Our Story & History
St. Ann's Parish, located in the heart of the beautiful Pokhara valley, stands as a testament to faith and perseverance.
The Beginnings: The seeds of the Catholic faith were planted here by Father Akijiro Ooki, a Japanese Jesuit missionary who arrived in Nepal in 1977. For over 30 years, his hospitable home served as the primary gathering place and church for early believers.
Our Church Building: Thanks to the fundraising efforts of Father Ooki's friends and associates, our dedicated church building was completed in 2014. The structure is an architectural masterpiece — a beautiful symphony blending Japanese and Nepali culture and aesthetics.
Our Legacy: Father Ooki passed away to his heavenly reward in 2015, happy to see his lifelong dream fulfilled.
Our Founder
Fr. Akijiro Ooki SJ
FounderA Japanese Jesuit missionary who arrived in Nepal in 1977 and planted the seeds of the Catholic faith in Pokhara. He founded Shishu Bikash Kendra and saw the church building completed in 2014, before passing to his heavenly reward in 2015. His vision and dedication remain the foundation of our parish community today.
Our Community Today
Today, St. Ann's Parish proudly serves a vibrant community of 35 Catholic families, while warmly welcoming visitors of all faiths from the surrounding hills and across the globe. We regularly receive visitors from all spheres of life who wish to learn about our way of worship, community living and service.
Join us for worship and prayer. Everyone is welcome.