The complex is a part of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles and is staffed by the Paulist Fathers and the Daughters of Mary and Joseph, who are also active in the parochial school.

Colloquially known as "St. Paul's," the school is adjacent to the community of Westwood, and admits students from the greater Los Angeles area.

The parish was organized in 1928 and the priests were specifically charged with ministering to local residents, UCLA faculty and students and "the moving picture people" (employees in the film and television industry).

Prior to that, the priests held mass on numerous sites as they searched for a suitable location to build the parish church.

[1] Due to its proximity to Hollywood, the church has been attended by and held the funerals of notable personalities in the entertainment industry.