Gazing up at the tallest building on Staten Island, you’d never guess its story. This is the Old Church of St. Joacim and Ann. It stands as a testament to resilience and faith.
St. Joacim and Ann Church is in the Pleasant Plains area. It is near the Atlantic Ocean. The church is on the grounds of Mount Loretto. Father John Drumgoole founded Mount Loretto. The institution housed destitute street children. The church mainly served the children and staff. Mount Loretto began as a farm. The church was in a rural area when built.
Construction finished around 1891. Benjamin E. Lowe was the architect. The Archdiocese of New York was the client. The church’s structural system is masonry. Its location is north of Hylan Boulevard. It sits between Page and Richard Avenues.
Now, here’s a smart-aleck fact. St. Joacim and Ann Church played a role in “The Godfather.” It was a filming location in 1972. But tragedy struck in 1973. A fire severely damaged the church. Only the facade remained. The Archdiocese of New York rebuilt it in 1976. The new structure was smaller. The old facade was incorporated.
Did you know St. Joacim and Ann Church is not a parish? It doesn’t operate full-time. It mainly hosts occasional ceremonial Masses. Catholic Charities of Staten Island uses the surrounding property. They provide social services.
Take a closer look at the plaza in front of St. Joacim and Ann Church. You will see bells saved from the fire. There is also an 1891 statue of Father Drumgoole. Robert Cushing sculpted it.
Despite its history, St. Joacim and Ann Church is a landmark. It is a symbol of hope. It serves as a reminder of the past.