Why are these seven golden domes so prominent? They belong to the Russian Orthodox Church of Three Saints. This church has a unique story. It is a testament to faith, immigration and community.
Let’s step back to 1898. Russian immigrants founded this church. Most came from the Carpathian Mountains. This region was then part of the Austro-Hungarian Empire. Today, it spans Slovakia, Ukraine, Poland, Hungary and Romania. These immigrants sought a new life. They established roots in North Jersey.
The Russian Orthodox Church of Three Saints became the first Orthodox parish. It was chartered in Garfield and Bergen County. The church honors three fourth-century church leaders. Its history connects to more recent saints. These include Saint Tikhon Saint Alexander Hotovitzky and Saint Alexis Toth.
Initially, the church was named Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Three Saints Society of Passaic. Later, the name changed to Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Three Saints Society of Garfield. Finally, it became the Russian Orthodox Greek Catholic Church of Three Saints of Garfield. Locals often call it The Three Saints Church.
In 1900 twenty-six families united to build a church. They bought two lots for $475 in 1901. The cornerstone was laid on July 3 1901. Archimandrite Raphael Hawaweeny blessed it. He was the future Bishop of the Syro-Arabian mission. Bishop Tikhon also participated. He later became the Patriarch of Russia.
The original Three Saints Church was a wooden building. It featured mural icons and a bell from Russia. Reverend Fathers Alexander Hotovitzky and Elias Zotikoff ministered to the parish. They also oversaw construction. Some members traveled to New York City before the church was built. They attended services at St. Nicholas Church.
A fire destroyed the original wooden church in 1915. Reverend Alexander Alekhin guided the building of a larger brick church. It was built on the same site. The new church had five domes. They represent Christ and the four Evangelists. The first service was held on December 25 1916.
Membership increased rapidly. Many families came from nearby towns. Some returned from Greek Catholic churches. By 1958 the Three Saints Church had 1000 families. It was the second largest Orthodox parish in New Jersey.
In 1992 the city of Garfield hosted President George Bush at the Three Saints Church. He presented his Captive Nations Proclamation. Today, Reverend George Konyev ministers to the parish. He is a native of Russia.
The Three Saints Church has a rich history. It reflects faith and perseverance. Its story is intertwined with immigration. It is connected to community. The seven golden domes symbolize this enduring legacy. They shine brightly over Garfield. They stand as a testament to the enduring spirit of its founders.