Church of Saint Rita

Hidden in the Ravenswood section of Long Island City, the Church of Saint Rita has witnessed the ebb and flow of time since 1895. Initially a humble mission of St. Patrick’s Parish, housed in a garage on Ninth Street, it has grown into a cornerstone of the community. The Church of Saint Rita, as we see it today, opened its doors in September 1900. The original cost for the land was $5,600, a modest sum compared to the $12,500 spent to erect the 45 by 96-foot edifice. Imagine the first 400 parishioners filling these pews. The rectory, a three-story building constructed in 1907, once served as a convent for the Sisters of St. Joseph. The parish was officially incorporated on April 18, 1916, marking a significant milestone in its history. From the 1930s until 1952, the Missionary Servants of the Most Blessed Trinity played a vital role at the Church of Saint Rita. They dedicated themselves to catechizing children, conducting census work, and engaging in social work within the community. In 1939, Father Pasquale Roberto oversaw the construction of a convent for these servants, costing $24,048. This building now serves as the rectory. The auditorium, once a hub for community gatherings, now hosts Sunday Masses. The Church of Saint Rita’s influence extended beyond its walls. St. Rita School, situated on 36th Avenue and 12th Street, opened in September 1952, with the Sisters of St. Joseph guiding the education of the children. A spacious playground, added in 1952, provided a place for recreation and growth. The Church of Saint Rita’s growth mirrored that of the surrounding area. By 1938, the parish boasted 4,000 members. This number swelled to over 7,500, largely due to the construction of the Queensbridge, Ravenswood, and Queensview City Projects, all falling within the parish boundaries. These boundaries stretch from Vernon Boulevard to 23rd Street and from Broadway to 43rd Avenue. Anticipating the burgeoning population, Father John M. Porazzo initiated the construction of a school in 1950. This $563,000 project included eight classrooms, a kindergarten, and an impressive auditorium with a capacity of 1,000. The Church of Saint Rita has seen a succession of dedicated pastors, each leaving their mark. From Rev. Thomas F. Gronen in 1895 to Fr. Felix Sanchez in 2024, their leadership has shaped the church’s journey. The Church of Saint Rita stands as a testament to faith, community, and growth, a beacon in the heart of Long Island City.