Have you ever wondered about the stories held within the walls of a church? The St Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church stands before you. Its history is rich and complex. It’s a story of fire and rebirth relocation and resilience.
The St Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church wasn’t always here on West 118th Street. It began its life in 1889. It served Irish immigrants first. Later German immigrants joined the congregation. The church’s original building housed a large parish school. Sadly a fire destroyed this school in 1913.
The current structure was designed by Thomas H Poole & Company. It’s a stunning example of Gothic Revival architecture. The façade hints at the beauty within. Elaborate fan-vaulted ceilings once graced the interior. Magnificent marble altars stood proudly. Beautiful stained glass windows from Mayer of Munich added to the splendor. The church was a vibrant part of the Harlem community. Many famous people were connected to it. Harry Belafonte’s family worshipped here. Kareem Abdul-Jabbar was reportedly baptized here. Hulan E Jack the first Black borough president of Manhattan was buried from this church.
The St Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church wasn’t always a lively place. Sadly declining congregations and structural problems led to its closure in 2003. The Salesians of Don Bosco had taken over in 1979. They ran the church and school until the closure. The Archdiocese of New York attempted demolition. However a preservation campaign saved it from destruction. This involved lawsuits protests and even letters from Germany. The stained glass windows were ultimately moved to another church.
Today the St Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church lives on. It’s a concert venue. It serves as a community space. The building stands as a testament to the faith of its former parishioners. It reflects the enduring spirit of Harlem. It’s a symbol of resilience. The church continues to inspire awe. It stands as a reminder of the past and a hope for the future. The St Thomas the Apostle Roman Catholic Church’s journey is one worth remembering.