Our Lady of Lebanon Roman Catholic Church

What would bring a pair of bronze doors from the infamous Normandie to decorate a church? You might not expect to find relics of the opulent French liner here at Our Lady of Lebanon Roman Catholic Church. But once you know the story of Our Lady of Lebanon, these doors start to make sense. Our Lady of Lebanon Roman Catholic Church has a fascinating and slightly complicated history. The building itself was not always a Maronite cathedral. It started its life as the Church of the Pilgrims, a Congregational church, in 1846. Designed by Richard Upjohn in the Romanesque Revival style, the church witnessed the changing landscape of Brooklyn Heights. By the early 20th century, both the Church of the Pilgrims and the nearby Plymouth Church saw declining congregations. This led to their merger in 1934, forming Plymouth Church of the Pilgrims. Meanwhile, the Maronite community in New York had been steadily growing. Established in 1903, the much smaller Our Lady of Lebanon congregation in Brooklyn needed a new home. They purchased the former Church of the Pilgrims in 1943. The dedication took place in 1944, marking a new chapter for both the building and the burgeoning Maronite community. The church’s transformation under Father Mansour Stephen was remarkable. He acquired those bronze doors from the Normandie, a poignant reminder of transatlantic voyages and cultural exchange. Six of the medallions grace the main entrance on Henry Street, while four, including one depicting Normandie’s sister ship, Ile de France, are on the Remsen Street side. But Father Stephen’s vision didn’t stop there. He commissioned a set of unique stained glass windows from French artist Jean Crotti, made using the innovative Gemmaux method. Later, Lebanese artist Sabiha Douaihy added his artistry to the windows and painted a stunning mural of Our Lady of Harissa behind the altar. In 1977, the church was elevated to the status of a cathedral. It became the seat of the Diocese of Saint Maron – U.S.A. when the Eparchial See moved from Detroit to Brooklyn. Our Lady of Lebanon Roman Catholic Church, with its blend of architectural styles, repurposed treasures, and vibrant community stands as a testament to the evolving cultural tapestry of New York City.