Presentation of The Blessed Virgin Mary Parish

“Imagine a gold-leaf cast iron statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary” twenty feet above the roof. That’s the image that greeted parishioners of the Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in its early years. This parish nestled in Jamaica Queens boasts a rich history. It began humbly in 1886. German-speaking Catholics needed a place to worship. Father Ignatius Zeller led the charge. A local farmer generously donated land. The first mass was held in a 1767 farmhouse. This served as church and rectory until the new church was finished. Construction was not easy. Parishioners and Father Zeller raised funds. Carpenter Pederson oversaw the construction. The church stood sixty feet tall. It was thirty-five by fifty-one feet in area. The gothic-style church had four windows on each side. Four more graced the roof. The main entrance was a gothic porch on Flushing Avenue now Parsons Boulevard. Two side entrances were in the rear. Oak paneling lined the interior. A high gothic ceiling was exposed wood. The completed church was dedicated on September 8 1886 the Feast of the Birth of Mary. Bishop John Loughlin presided. Growth was rapid. A parish school opened in 1887 thanks to the Dominican Sisters. Father Zeller encouraged the purchase of land. St Elizabeth’s Convent was built housing an orphanage and classrooms. More space was needed. A two-story schoolhouse was built and dedicated in October 1893. The church itself was expanded to 3000 square feet. It accommodated 450 parishioners. The expansion included three bells and a four-faced clock. A new dedication took place on October 25 1894 with Bishop Charles E McDonnell presiding. The Presentation of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish has stood the test of time. It’s a testament to faith community and the enduring spirit of its people. It continues to serve its community. The parish shows its long legacy of devotion and growth. Step inside. Feel its history and its enduring spirit.