“A summer colony” is what they called Rockaway Point in the early 1920s. St. Genevieve’s Church emerged to serve those summer visitors. Now, let’s step closer to St. Genevieve’s Church.
St. Genevieve’s Church began as a mission church. It aimed to serve the Rockaway Point area. This area was primarily a summertime destination. Over time, it blossomed into a community staple. It welcomes residents and visitors throughout the year.
Interestingly, the nearest Catholic Church was St. Francis de Sales. It was located on Beach 129th Street. As more people visited Rockaway Point, the need for another church became clear. St. Francis De Sales responded by establishing St. Genevieve’s Church in Roxbury in 1924. St. Edmund Church in Rockaway Point was established shortly after. These served as mission churches for the area’s summer residents.
Visitors continued to flock to the area. Some chose to stay year-round. They leased land or built homes. The construction of the Marine Parkway Bridge in 1937 further boosted the population. It linked the Rockaway peninsula to Brooklyn.
In 1950, St. Genevieve’s Church transitioned from a mission church. It became its own parish. Rev. J. Emmett McDonald was appointed as administrator.
Nearby, St. Edmund Parish saw the construction of a new church. It was dedicated to St. Thomas More in 1954. By 1957, the two churches united. They became St. Thomas More-St. Edmund Parish.
In 2005, Monsignor Michael Curran became the pastor. He also served as the administrator of St. Genevieve Parish.
Eventually, plans emerged to merge St. Genevieve Parish and St. Thomas More-St. Edmund Parish. This led to the creation of Blessed Trinity Parish in May 2008. St. Thomas More Church in Breezy Point became the main church.
In recent years, Blessed Trinity Parish has experienced positive changes. There is increased youth involvement. Overall mass attendance has risen. St. Genevieve Church even received a brand new roof.
Today, St. Genevieve’s Church stands as a testament to faith. It is also a testament to community growth. It is a cornerstone of the Blessed Trinity Parish. St. Genevieve Church celebrated its centennial in June 2024.