Devotion echoes through these walls. We are standing before Saint Finbar Catholic Church in Brooklyn. This church stands as a testament to faith and community. Its story began in 1880.
Saint Finbar’s origins trace back to a growing congregation. Many were Irish settlers from Cork, Ireland. They named the church after Saint Finbar, the first bishop of Cork. These early parishioners laid the foundation for what stands before us.
The stately building we see today was built in 1910. Its gold-trimmed facade reflects the community’s dedication. For 135 years, Saint Finbar has served the people of Bensonhurst and Bath Beach. The annual Feast Day celebrates this long history.
Saint Finbar’s history is interwoven with Brooklyn’s development. When the parish was established, this area was part of the Town of New Utrecht. Brooklyn annexed New Utrecht in 1894. Transportation evolved from horse cars to steam trains. Elevated trains and subways followed. These changes mirrored the growth of Saint Finbar and its community.
Inside Saint Finbar, beauty and history intertwine. In the 1980s, the church underwent significant changes. Later, the parish sought to restore Saint Finbar to its former glory. Lawrence Hoy Studios was commissioned for this task. They created a new marble altar. It matched archival photographs of the original interior. Crafts workers restored the original terrazzo floors. These floors had been hidden under tile and plywood. This painstaking work allowed the parish to enjoy the church’s original beauty once more.
Saint Finbar’s parish has seen many changes. Initially, it was largely Irish. Later, many Italians arrived. More recently, there have been arrivals from East Asia and Latin America. This diverse population makes Saint Finbar a truly universal church. Mass is offered in Spanish to serve the changing community.
The church also had an elementary school. It closed in June 2008 due to low enrollment. For forty years, it provided excellent education. But religious instruction at Saint Finbar started even earlier.
Saint Finbar continues to be a vibrant center of faith. It offers a welcoming space for all. Its history reflects the changing face of Brooklyn. The church stands as a beacon of hope. It connects the past with the present. The story of Saint Finbar is one of faith, community, and enduring beauty.