Saint Kevins Church

In the heart of bustling Queens, stands St. Kevin’s Church. It’s a beacon of faith, a testament to the vision of one man. Msgr. John Delea, a name synonymous with the church’s very existence. He saw potential in the vast farmland and woodland of 1926 Auburndale. Archbishop Thomas E. Molloy recognized Delea’s foresight, entrusting him with the mission. He charged him to “Grow with your parish. Plan well.” Delea, known affectionately as “Father Delea,” wasted no time. He found a two-story frame house on 194th Street. This humble abode became the first church, with Masses held downstairs and the rectory upstairs. The first Mass at St. Kevin’s took place on October 10, 1926. Just a week later, Delea secured the name, a tribute to a beloved Irish saint. The community eagerly awaited their new church. Announcements buzzed through the parish, fueling excitement. Land was purchased from the Frame farm. Ground was broken before Christmas 1926. The new St. Kevin’s Church opened its doors on June 12, 1927. Over 1,000 people attended the inaugural Masses. Three wooden altars graced the sanctuary. Parishioners finally found comfort in the new pews. The church stood as a stark contrast to the surrounding farms and woodlands. The old rectory, originally the Luke Otten home, was moved from Northern Boulevard. The basement of the church became St. Catherine’s Chapel, accommodating the growing congregation. The church sparked a transformation. Homes sprung up, turning the once-rural landscape into a thriving community. In 1937, parishioner Vincent Aderente adorned St. Kevin’s with stunning murals. They remain a testament to the artistic spirit within the parish. From card parties in the Bayside police station to cake sales for church screens, the early days of St. Kevin’s were marked by community spirit. St. Kevin’s Church stands as a symbol of faith, vision, and community. It’s a reminder that even in the most unassuming beginnings, great things can flourish.