“Spires are meant to inspire.” That’s what Arthur D. Gilman, the prominent architect of Saint John Episcopal Church, must have thought. This church is not just a building. It is a landmark with a story etched in every stone.
Saint John Episcopal Church stands as a testament to faith and architectural beauty. Its Victorian Gothic style transports you to a quaint English parish. It is a reminder of the Anglican Church’s origins. Contrary to popular belief Saint John Episcopal Church is not a replica of Shakespeare’s church.
Let’s rewind to the mid-19th century. The first formal meeting of St. John’s Church took place in 1843. It happened at the residence of William B. Townsend. The purpose was organizing the parish. Prominent community members Charles McLean Simonson and William H. Aspinwall were chosen as wardens. They joined vestrymen like William B. Townsend. They were considered Protestant Episcopal and Catholic.
Back then Staten Island was a rural seafaring community. Facilities for worship were few. Episcopalians were ministered to by The Rev. Dr. Moore. A proposal for a union church failed. The organizers decided to call a pastor of their evangelical views as rector.
These men started St. John’s Church. They were men of large catholic sympathies. They were prominent in the community. Charles McLean Simonson owned the land for the church. He was known as hospitable and generous. William H. Aspinwall was a successful merchant. He had ships in ports worldwide.
Occasional services were held at the Clifton Hotel. As attendance increased they decided to build a sanctuary. The cornerstone of the first St. John’s Church was laid. It was laid by the Rev. D. David Moore. Gifts included a large bible. It was presented by Commodore and Mrs. Cornelius Vanderbilt.
The current Saint John Episcopal Church building is not the first. The first building was on St. John’s Ave. It was designed by Arthur D. Gilman. It was built between 1869 and 1871. The church was renovated in 1955. It was renovated again in 2013 after Hurricane Sandy.
Buttresses adorn the ends at the arch. Pointed arch stained glass windows are throughout the church. A storage area and the heating unit sit beneath the church. Due to its features and history the church was designated as a New York City Landmark in 1974.
The spire has been a landmark for ships. They come through the Narrows along Staten Island. The church bells welcomed troopships. They returned from Europe after World War I.
Imagine the dedication and vision of those early founders. They laid the foundation for a church. Saint John Episcopal Church continues to be a welcoming beacon. It is a testament to the enduring power of community. It is a place of faith in a changing world.