St. Francis de Sales Church

Gazing up at St. Francis de Sales Church, one might wonder about the stories held within its Italian Renaissance walls. The church stands proudly on East 96th Street in Manhattan. It has served as a beacon of faith for the Upper East Side community since its doors first opened. Archbishop Corrigan established the parish in 1894. He appointed Father J.L. Hoey to bring the congregation together. Initially, services were held in a rented house. The cornerstone for the church itself was laid in December 1895. Bishop Farley dedicated St. Francis de Sales Church on November 29, 1903. The architectural firm, O’Connor & Metcalf, designed the building in the elegant Italian Renaissance style. George H. Streeton later expanded it in 1903. The church’s history intertwines with some notable figures. Actor James Cagney, known for his tough-guy roles, was a parishioner and was confirmed there in 1910. Inside St. Francis de Sales, stained glass windows bathe the interior in vibrant colors. These windows depict scenes of religious significance and add to the church’s serene atmosphere. The church originally housed an organ built by E. and G.G. Hook & Hastings of Boston. Later, a 1912 Estey organ and then a 1949 Aeolian-Skinner organ graced its galleries, filling the space with sacred music. The parish school, staffed by the Sisters of Mercy, opened its doors in 1924, further solidifying the church’s role in the community. St. Francis de Sales Church continues to serve as a spiritual home. It offers a place of worship and community to this day. It stands as a testament to the enduring power of faith. It also reflects the rich history of the Upper East Side.