Suppose you could step back to 1826 on the Lower East Side. You would witness the birth of St. Mary’s Church. It started to serve Irish immigrants. This makes it the third oldest Catholic parish in New York. St. Mary’s will proudly celebrate its bicentennial in 2026.
Initially, services took place in a former Presbyterian church. This was on Sheriff Street. Rev. Hatton Walsh led as pastor. In 1831, anti-Catholic sentiments flared. Nativists set fire to St. Mary’s Church. It wasn’t destroyed but it kept operating.
The cornerstone for the present building was laid in 1832. The dedication took place in June 1833. Rev. William J. Quarter served as pastor. He later became the first bishop of Chicago.
Originally, St. Mary’s Church had a Greek Revival design. But in 1864, Patrick Charles Keely redesigned the facade. He chose the Romanesque style. It included twin spires. Lawrence O’Connor made further changes in 1871.
Rev. Michael McKenna was an assistant pastor here. He had ties to the Irish nationalist movement. Later, he became the first pastor of St. Rose of Lima. Charles Edward McDonnell also served here. He would become Bishop of Brooklyn.
St. Mary’s is more than bricks and mortar. It’s a living testament to faith and community. The Ancient Order of Hibernians formed their first New York chapter here. This was in response to the burning of St. Mary’s. It was a reaction to violence against clergy. Today, the congregation reflects diversity. It includes Dominican and Puerto Rican families.
Grand Street’s St. Mary’s Church has a rich musical history. It once housed a series of organs. These include a Henry Erben from 1834 with 18 stops.
The church stands as a beacon of hope. It welcomes all to worship. It encourages advocacy. It fosters learning and friendships. Mass is celebrated daily. The church is open for Adoration. Daily Rosary Prayer takes place here too.
St. Mary’s Church is more than a historical landmark. It’s a vibrant community. It preserves traditions. It embraces the future. Its doors are open to all. It invites everyone to discover the world. All are welcome here. People from all backgrounds are emphatically present.