“Staten Island’s tallest building” echoes in my mind as we approach the Old Church of St. Joachim and St. Anne. This historic Catholic church building stands in the Pleasant Plains area. It is a testament to faith and resilience.
The Old Church of St. Joachim and St. Anne is also known as Mount Loretto Church. Its story began in 1891. Father John Drumgoole founded Mount Loretto. It was to house and educate destitute street children. The church primarily served these children and the staff. Mount Loretto was a farm back then. The church stood in a rural area.
Fast forward to 1972. The Old Church of St. Joachim and St. Anne became a movie set. It was featured in The Godfather. A year later disaster struck. A fire severely damaged the church. Only the facade remained.
The Archdiocese of New York owned the church. It rebuilt it in 1976. The new design incorporated the old facade into a smaller structure. The Old Church of St. Joachim and St. Anne is not a parish. It is mainly used for occasional Masses.
Mount Loretto continues its mission. It is now known as Catholic Charities of Staten Island. The property provides social services. Residential programs are also available.
Notice the plaza in front of the Old Church of St. Joachim and St. Anne. Here bells salvaged from the fire are displayed. An 1891 statue of Father Drumgoole stands here. Robert Cushing created it. The Old Church of St. Joachim and St. Anne represents hope. It embodies community and architectural beauty. It is a landmark that has risen from ashes.