Beneath the Bronx skyline stands St. Barnabas Church. It is a testament to faith. The church has served the Woodlawn Heights community for over a century. Let’s explore the history of this remarkable Roman Catholic parish.
St. Barnabas Church started in July 1910. Rev. Michael A. Reilly established it. It was separated from St. Frances of Rome parish. St. Barnabas quickly became one of the largest parishes in the Archdiocese of New York.
In 1911, the Italianate church building was completed. Cardinal John M. Farley dedicated it in November 1911. At the time, it could hold 700 people. A temporary school also opened in 1911. Seven Sisters of Charity of New York staffed it. It had 200 students.
A convent opened opposite the church in January 1913. It cost $8,000. Before that, the Sisters had to travel daily from Riverdale. By 1914, the parish had about 1,000 members. The property was valued at $100,000.
The chapel and high school opened in 1924. Msgr. George McWeeney rebuilt them between 1947 and 1965. During the 1980s, the church celebrated up to 22 Masses each week. Msgr. Timothy S. Collins renovated the rectory, parish center, and high school chapel from 1986 to 1994.
Music has always been vital at St. Barnabas Church. The church has had at least four organs in its history. The Estey Organ Company installed the first one around 1911. George S. Hutchings of Boston created the second one in 1890. It was installed around 1948 and restored in 1988. Jaeckel Organs, Inc. installed the third in 1985. The Peragallo Pipe Organ Company installed the current organ in 2009.
St. Barnabas Elementary School was founded in 1911. It offers pre-kindergarten to 8th grade. Jonathan Morano has been the Principal since 2015. Stephen Marositz has been the Vice Principal since 2018.
St. Barnabas High School was founded in 1924. It is an all-girls Catholic school. It offers a college prep program for young women. The high school has been independent from the parish since September 2015.
Throughout its history, St. Barnabas Church has been led by several dedicated pastors. Msgr. Michael A. Reilly was the first pastor. He built the church, schools, convent, and rectory. Msgr. George McWeeney erected the new high school building and chapel. Msgr. John J. Considine also served. Msgr. Timothy S. Collins later became pastor of Our Lady of the Rosary Church. Msgr. Francis X. Toner reorganized parish services. Msgr. Edward M. Barry also served. Father Brendan Fitzgerald is the current pastor since 2015.
St. Barnabas Church stands as a beacon of faith. It reflects the enduring spirit of its community. Its rich history is filled with devotion and service. It continues to be a vital part of the Bronx.