Wow. Look at this magnificent building. This is Saint Josephs Catholic Church in Greenwich Village. It’s one of the oldest Catholic churches in New York City. Can you believe it?
Saint Josephs has a rich history. It wasn’t always easy being Catholic in New York City. Before the Revolutionary War ended Catholicism was outlawed. Imagine a priest risking everything just to practice his faith. The first Catholic church in New York City was St Peter’s on Barclay Street. Saint Joseph’s followed much later.
By the 1820s Greenwich Village grew rapidly. It transitioned from a small village outside of New York City into a bustling suburb. Bishop John Dubois saw the need for a church. He founded Saint Josephs in 1829 to serve the expanding community.
They started with a temporary chapel. Then in 1833 construction began on the permanent church. John Doran designed it in the popular Greek Revival style. It’s a great example of New York architecture from that era. Sadly few others remain.
The dedication in 1834 was a huge event. Many important figures of the Catholic Church attended. Bishop Dubois celebrated the mass. Father John Hughes later became Archbishop of New York. Father John McCloskey became the first American Cardinal. The event was described as impressive solemn and august. The Italian Opera Company even provided the music.
Over the years Saint Josephs faced challenges. Two fires caused significant damage to the interior. But the church endured. In 1972 the sanctuary was dramatically altered. The high altar and marble were removed. People complained it looked Protestant. But a hidden treasure was discovered a fresco of the Transfiguration. It is now believed to be the oldest true fresco in the United States.
In 2003 the Dominican Friars took over the church. They’ve been instrumental in its ongoing restoration and revitalization. Recent renovations include a new roof new air conditioning and extensive repairs. They even restored the original 19th century bell. Today its beautiful sound rings out once more. The church’s exterior has been painstakingly restored to its original glory. Saint Josephs is once again majestic.
The church continues to serve the community. It’s a place of faith history and beauty. A testament to the enduring spirit of the Catholic Church in New York City. A true landmark.