Gazing at Saint Camillus Church, one might sense the echoes of its long history. Saint Camillus Church has witnessed the changing tides of Rockaway Park since its humble beginnings. The parish was established in 1909 as a mission. Parishioners initially attended services at St. Rose of Lima until 1912. The current building may have been altered from an earlier structure. Saint Camillus Church now forms part of the St. Camillus-St. Virgilus Parish. The church stands as a testament to the enduring faith of the community it serves. In recent years, Saint Camillus Church has faced challenges. Dwindling attendance led to discussions of merging with St. Rose of Lima. The untimely passing of Monsignor Richard Ahlemeyer in May 2024 accelerated the merger process. Reverend James Rodriguez became administrator of St. Camillus-St. Virgilus in June 2024. Changes in mass schedules followed, with some services being eliminated due to low attendance. The future of Saint Camillus Church remains uncertain. The diocese is considering options ranging from maintaining it as a missionary church to closing it permanently. The fate of Saint Camillus Church rests on the hope of increased attendance. The community’s engagement with this historic landmark will determine its future.
Gould Family Mausoleum
Ever heard of a “Robber Baron?” Here at Woodlawn Cemetery stands the Gould Family Mausoleum. It is a testament to