Have you ever felt the weight of history beneath your feet? Here at St. Margaret of Cortona Church in the Bronx you can. This isn’t just a building. It’s a living testament to faith resilience and the ever-changing face of a community.
St. Margaret of Cortona Church stands proudly in Riverdale. It’s a beacon of Catholicism in the Bronx. The current structure dates back to 1964. It replaced the first church built in 1891. That initial church was a significant achievement for the growing Catholic population of Riverdale. Before 1887 Catholics had to travel quite far to attend Mass. This church provided a much needed spiritual home.
The story of St. Margaret of Cortona Church isn’t just about bricks and mortar. It’s about the people who built it. The people who worshipped within its walls. Reverend James F. Kiley the founder served as the first rector. He laid the foundation for a parish that would thrive for over a century. His successors including Reverend Michael J. Murray and Monsignor William Foley each left their mark. They guided the parish through periods of growth and change. Even financial hardships didn’t stop them from serving their flock.
A fascinating detail is the school. Initially it operated as St. Vincent’s Free School. This provided education to the children of Irish immigrant families. Lavelle Hall another school building opened later. It was later leased to the New York City school system. The current school has a rich heritage. It reflects the dedication to education within the parish.
In 2015 St. Margaret’s merged with St. Gabriel’s parish. This merger strengthened the community. It ensured the continuation of Catholic life in the Riverdale area. This merging however meant that St. Gabriel’s records now reside here.
This church isn’t just a place of worship. It’s a community hub. It’s a place where generations have celebrated life’s milestones. It’s a silent witness to the Bronx’s vibrant history. So take a moment. Feel the presence of those who came before you. Their faith echoes in these very walls. Their legacy lives on in the vibrant spirit of St. Margaret of Cortona Church.