Did you know that this very spot holds the distinction of being the oldest Catholic parish in all of New York State? Welcome to Saints Peter and Paul RC Church. Right here on Barclay Street stands a testament to unwavering faith. Its history stretches back to a time long before the United States even existed.
Imagine a New York City vastly different from the one we know today. A time when anti-Catholic sentiment ran strong. The original Saints Peter and Paul RC Church a humble structure was built in 1785-1786. This was only two years after the Revolutionary War ended. Its construction wasn’t without its challenges. Initially planned for Broad Street the church’s location was shifted due to prejudice. The new site was then outside the city limits.
The funding for this pioneering church was remarkable. A generous donation of 1000 silver pieces arrived from King Charles III of Spain. This royal contribution along with funds raised by dedicated parishioners like Dominick Lynch made the dream a reality. The cornerstone laying ceremony itself was a significant event. The Spanish ambassador Diego de Gardoqui conducted the proceedings. He placed Spanish coins from the reign of King Charles III into the cornerstone.
The church wasn’t merely a place of worship. It became a vital center for the burgeoning Catholic community. Father William O’Brien the first pastor served with distinction during devastating yellow fever epidemics. His tireless service earned him the deep gratitude of the city. In 1800 Saints Peter and Paul RC Church established the very first free Catholic school in New York State. This pioneering institution offered education to hundreds of children. Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton a future saint converted to Catholicism within these very walls. She often prayed before a painting of the Crucifixion above the main altar.
The original church served faithfully until 1834. A larger structure was deemed necessary to accommodate the growing congregation. The present Greek Revival building designed by John R Haggerty and Thomas Thomas was constructed from 1836 to 1840. The new Saints Peter and Paul RC Church opened its doors in February 1838. Archbishop John Hughes presided over this momentous occasion.
Sadly the church was damaged during the September 11th attacks. A portion of an airplane’s landing gear struck its roof. Father Mychal Judge OFM a chaplain for the New York City Fire Department tragically perished in the attacks. His body was brought to Saints Peter and Paul RC Church. The parish became a crucial staging area for rescue and recovery efforts. The famous World Trade Center cross a powerful symbol of hope temporarily resided outside the church before finding its final home at the 9/11 Memorial.
Today Saints Peter and Paul RC Church continues its mission. It remains a vibrant hub for the Catholic community in Lower Manhattan. The church serves as a powerful reminder of faith perseverance and the enduring spirit of New York City. This place stands as a beacon of hope history and the unwavering faith of its parishioners for over two centuries.