The imposing facade of St Cecilia’s Church stands before you. Its red granite columns reach towards the sky.
This is St Cecilia’s Church a Roman Catholic parish church. It’s a historic landmark in East Harlem. The parish itself was established much earlier in 1873. It began as a small chapel in a resort hotel. The current church building however was a significant undertaking. Construction began in 1883 and ended in 1887.
The design is Romanesque Revival. The architects were Napoleon LeBrun & Sons. Father Michael J Phelan oversaw construction. He acted as the general contractor. He was known throughout the Archdiocese of New York as the builder of churches. He also built the parish school St Cecilia’s Institute. Sisters of Mercy staffed the school. They also ran a home for working women next door. That home closed in the late 1930s.
The church’s facade is truly a sight to behold. A large terra cotta relief of St Cecilia playing an organ adorns it. This is a wonderful detail. Seven stained glass windows are set above the porch. The church is made of brick and terra cotta. It’s an ornate example of the style. The AIA Guide to New York City described it as one of East Harlem’s special treasures. Its exuberance is noted.
The church served a predominantly Irish congregation initially. Later it welcomed Italian Hispanic and Black families among others. It is now known as a diverse and welcoming parish.
In 1976 St Cecilia’s Church received city landmark status. In 1984 it received national recognition. It’s listed on the US National Register of Historic Places. The Redemptorist Fathers staffed the church from 1939 to 2007. More recently in 2018 a street mass was held. This was to reach out to homebound and fallen-away Catholics. It also accommodated parishioners who could not navigate the church’s steep steps.
St Cecilia’s Church stands as a testament to faith. It’s a vibrant part of East Harlem’s history. Its beautiful architecture is a stunning example of Romanesque Revival style. It continues to serve its community in many ways.