The Cathedral of the Bronx they call it. A grand title for a grand church. St Nicholas of Tolentine stands before you. Its twin towers pierce the sky. A testament to faith and resilience.
This isn’t just any church. It’s a living history. Founded in 1906 by Augustinian friars. Their first mass? In a small garage. Imagine the scene. A humble beginning for a future landmark. They quickly outgrew the garage. Construction of a permanent church began soon after. A two-story combination building for church and school. A separate rectory completed the complex. Archbishop Farley dedicated the original church on September 15 1907. A grand celebration for the new parish.
But the story doesn’t end there. The present Collegiate Gothic structure wasn’t built until 1927. Designed by Delaney O’Connor & Schultz. Its stone facade speaks of enduring strength. The soaring interior once held a Kilgen organ. Opus 7517 a magnificent instrument. Built in 1951. It survived a devastating fire in 2010. A suspicious two-alarm blaze that filled the sanctuary with smoke and flames. The fire started in a former confessional. It quickly spread. Luckily Father Girone evacuated the worshippers. Some firefighters were injured. The cause was deemed suspicious. An arson attack. Part of a series against Bronx churches.
Despite the tragedy services resumed. In the adjacent parish school’s gym. A temporary home. The parish school itself has a rich history. Opened in 1907 it was run by Augustinian Fathers and Sisters of Charity. It closed in 2019. There was even a high school here. Famous for its basketball team. It operated from 1927 to 1991. A mix of lay educators Augustinian priests and Dominican nuns taught there.
St Nicholas of Tolentine has adapted over the years. Reflecting the changing demographics of University Heights. Now home to Hispanic and Vietnamese immigrants. The church offers masses in English Spanish and Vietnamese. A true reflection of its community. Its grandeur remains undiminished a beacon of faith. A resilient symbol standing tall in the heart of the Bronx. A true cathedral indeed.