In 1925 a mission under a canvas tent brought faith to Villa Modelo. This was the humble beginning of Iglesia Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús. The rapid growth of Buenos Aires’ suburbs demanded such missions. They were a temporary solution to the distance between established parishes and new communities. These missions offered religious instruction and Mass under canvas tents often borrowed from the military. The Iglesia Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús’ story began much like this. Father Amílcar Merlo OMV of the San Roque parish saw a spiritual need. Villa Modelo needed religious guidance. Communist propaganda and the advance of Protestantism were spreading. Father Merlo wanted to counter these influences. In 1926 a mission took place in a factory shed. The Tambussi family generously lent their property. It was located on Chorroarín 548. The shed became a makeshift chapel. Every night many attended despite the cold and muddy streets. The success of this mission showed the community’s yearning for their own church. An image of Santa Teresita presided over the simple altar. Mass was celebrated in both Spanish and Italian reflecting the neighborhood’s diverse population.
Father Merlo proposed building a small chapel. This new chapel would also serve as a catechism center. The land belonged to the church. It was situated at the intersection of Bucarelli and Quirós streets in the heart of Villa Modelo. The Tambussi family pledged iron beams. Neighbors though poor promised to help in any way possible. On July 12 1927 the Archbishop of Buenos Aires blessed the new chapel. This humble structure was built of wood and zinc. It was dedicated to Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús. The chapel served as a branch of San Roque. Mass was held there every Sunday. The construction of this chapel represents the unwavering faith and determination of the Villa Modelo community. Their efforts laid the foundation for what would become the Iglesia Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús.
The old chapel eventually became too small. Thanks to the generous donation of the Duhau sisters a larger church was built. Its architect was Carlos C Massa. Cardinal Copello blessed the new Iglesia Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús on December 13 1941. This new building was a significant upgrade. It featured a magnificent marble altar. Images of the Virgen del Carmen and San José flanked the main image of Santa Teresita. The old chapel was converted into a parish hall. This hall housed the “Tachito” a beloved community cinema. The “Tachito” provided affordable entertainment. The Iglesia Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús thus became a vital center for the community. It offered spiritual guidance and social activities. Its growth reflects the evolving needs of the neighborhood. Its history is a testament to the enduring spirit of faith and community. The Iglesia Santa Teresita del Niño Jesús continues to serve as a beacon of faith and hope. It is a reminder of the simple beginnings of a community’s dedication to their patron saint.