Church of St. Teresa of Avila: A History of Faith in Manhattan

Church of St. Teresa of Avila

Located at the intersection of 187th Street and Broadway in Manhattan, New York City, the Church of St. Teresa of Avila served as a vital spiritual hub for the local community. Established to serve the growing needs of the city's diverse population, this former parish church represents a significant chapter in the religious landscape of Upper Manhattan.

Key Facts

Founding and Early Mission

The origins of the parish date back to 1926, when Cardinal Patrick J. Hayes invited Fr. Gabriel Ginard to organize a dedicated parish for Spanish-speaking Catholics. This initiative was designed to provide spiritual support and community for the Spanish-speaking population residing in New York City.

Initially, the community was organized as Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church. A few years later, the name was changed to the Church of St. Teresa of Avila. In 1932, the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York officially established the parish, utilizing the former Church of St. Elizabeth as its base.

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Challenges and Transition

The parish's early years were marked by both growth and tragedy. The original church building was a historic landmark, first constructed in 1872. However, this architectural piece of history was completely destroyed by a fire in 1935.

Following the fire, the parish continued its mission under the guidance of the Vincentian Fathers, a religious congregation dedicated to serving the poor and marginalized. Despite its efforts to serve the Manhattan community, the parish location has since been closed.

Summary of Parish Details

Overview of the Church of St. Teresa of Avila
Detail Information
Client/Authority Roman Catholic Archdiocese of New York
Primary Mission Serving Spanish-speaking Catholics
Original Landmark Built 1872
Year of Fire 1935
Staffing Order Vincentian Fathers

Frequently Asked Questions

Where was the Church of St. Teresa of Avila located?

The church was located at 187th Street and Broadway in Manhattan, New York City.

Who was the first pastor of the parish?

The first pastor was Fr. Gabriel Ginard, who was invited by Cardinal Patrick J. Hayes to organize the community.

What was the original name of the church?

Before being renamed St. Teresa of Avila, the church was first organized as Our Lady of the Miraculous Medal Catholic Church in 1926.

What happened to the original 1872 landmark building?

The original historic landmark building, which dated back to 1872, was destroyed by a fire in 1935.

Which religious order staffed the parish?

The parish was staffed by the Vincentian Fathers.

References

  1. "Old Broadway Church Burns". The New York Sun. February 28, 1935.
  2. "$100,000 Blaze Ruins Historic Heights Church". The New York Herald Tribune. March 1, 1935.