Gazing up at the red brick facade, can you imagine St. Stephen’s Church as something other than Catholic? This historic church in Boston’s North End has seen many transitions. It stands as a testament to the city’s evolving religious and demographic landscape.
St. Stephen’s Church was originally built between 1802 and 1804. The renowned architect Charles Bulfinch designed it. Back then, it was known as the New North Church. It served a Congregationalist society. This building replaced an older church built on the site in 1714.
Bulfinch’s design was quite striking. The exterior featured white pilasters on the facade. A clock tower and belfry topped the structure. The interior was a perfect square with Doric and Corinthian columns supporting the ceiling.
In an interesting turn of events, the New North Church embraced Unitarianism in 1813. Many Boston congregations followed suit during this time. Reverend Dr. Francis Parkman became the church’s minister. He served from 1813 to 1849.
However, by the mid-19th century, the North End was changing. Affluent residents moved away. Irish Catholic immigrants arrived in large numbers. This demographic shift led to a significant change for the New North Church.
In 1862, the church was sold to the Roman Catholic Diocese of Boston. It was then renamed St. Stephen’s Church. During the conversion, changes were made. The weathervane was removed. A peak was built over the cupola. A cross and clock were added. Also Hanover Street was widened and the edifice was moved back 16 feet.
In 1964, Cardinal Richard James Cushing authorized a restoration. The building was lowered to its original foundation. The Bulfinch cupola was reconstructed. The same company that moved the church earlier, Isaac Blair & Co., carried out the work. During the restoration, the original copper-covered dome was found.
St. Stephen’s Church has some interesting connections. Mayor John “Honey Fitz” Fitzgerald was a parishioner. His daughter Rose Fitzgerald Kennedy was baptized here in 1890. Her funeral was also held here in 1995.
Today, St. Stephen’s Church remains an active Roman Catholic parish. It stands as a significant architectural landmark. It is the only one of Charles Bulfinch’s five Boston churches that still exists. The building has been moved a total of 25 feet.
As you stand before St. Stephen’s Priory, consider its journey. From a Congregationalist meeting house to a Unitarian church. Then finally a Catholic church. This building reflects the ever-changing story of Boston’s North End.