Saint James Roman Catholic Church

Gazing up at the weathered facade of Saint James Roman Catholic Church, can you sense the echoes of history whispering from its stones? This church, nestled on James Street, has witnessed centuries of change in New York City. Saint James Roman Catholic Church is not merely a building, but a living testament to faith, perseverance, and the evolving tapestry of a vibrant community. Saint James is the second oldest Roman Catholic building in New York City. The cornerstone was laid in 1835, and the church was dedicated in January 1836. Its Greek Revival design, modeled on published plans by Minard Lafever, exudes a timeless elegance, with Doric columns framing the entrance and a once-proud domed cupola gracing its roof. Bishop John Dubois established the parish to alleviate overcrowding at St. Peter’s. He initially acquired an Episcopal church building on Ann Street, retaining the name Christ Church. However, nearby excavations compromised the building’s integrity. Services temporarily relocated to Ann Street before the James Street location was secured. The first mass was held in the basement of Saint James Roman Catholic Church on September 18, 1836. The church officially opened its doors in January 1837. The dedication ceremony was led by Bishop Dubois. The church’s namesake, St. James the Apostle, became a symbol of hope for the burgeoning Catholic community. Within the hallowed halls of Saint James, a young Alfred E. Smith served as an altar boy. He attended the affiliated St. James Elementary School across the street. Smith would later become Governor of New York and the first Roman Catholic presidential candidate. His connection to Saint James speaks to the church’s role in nurturing future leaders. In 1836, the Ancient Order of Hibernians, an Irish fraternal organization, chose Saint James as the site of their first American chapter. This decision cemented the church’s ties to the Irish community. The Hibernians played a crucial role in saving Saint James from demolition in 1986, when the church was deemed structurally unsound. The order spearheaded fundraising efforts for its restoration, showcasing their unwavering commitment to this historic landmark. Saint James Roman Catholic Church has faced its share of adversity. In 1983, city officials ordered the church closed due to the risk of roof collapse. Then, in 2011, a devastating fire ravaged the building, causing significant damage. Yet, each time, the community rallied around Saint James, demonstrating its resilience and enduring spirit. The year 2007 marked a new chapter for Saint James when it merged with the nearby Parish of St. Joseph. In 2015, a further merger with the Church of the Transfiguration took place, solidifying the bonds between these historic congregations. Today, as you stand before Saint James Roman Catholic Church, remember the stories held within its stones. It’s a story of a community’s unwavering faith, a testament to the power of preservation, and a symbol of hope for the future.