St. Jerome’s Church | Bronx

St. Jerome’s Church, located in the Mott Haven neighborhood of the Bronx, is one of the oldest and most notable Roman Catholic parishes in the area. Established in 1869, the church was originally founded to cater to the growing immigrant community, initially serving Irish and German families. Today, it is an integral part of the community, with a rich history and a diverse congregation.

Historical Background

The parish was founded by Rev. John J. Hughes, the first bishop of the Archdiocese of New York, as a response to the needs of the Catholic immigrants settling in the area. The Irish were the initial demographic that the parish served, followed by German immigrants. As the neighborhood grew and changed, so did the parish’s community.

By the 1930s, Puerto Rican immigrants had become a significant part of the local population. Later, Mexican immigrants also formed a substantial portion of the congregation. In response to the changing demographics, the church adjusted its services to better reflect the needs of its multicultural community.

Architectural Features

The current church building, which was constructed between 1898 and 1900, is a remarkable example of Italianate/Baroque Revival architecture. Designed by the architectural firm Delhi & Howard, the church is located on the southeast corner of Alexander Avenue and East 138th Street. The building is expansive, covering a block and featuring two prominent towers.

Towers: The two towers of the church are distinctive, with the corner tower being the more elaborate of the two. This tower is one of the most recognizable features of the church’s exterior, drawing the eye with its intricate design and stature.

Interior: The interior of St. Jerome's Church is just as impressive. With seating for about 1,000 people in the main area and an additional 400 in the gallery, the church can accommodate a large congregation. The interior features traditional Catholic iconography and stained glass windows, which further add to the church’s historical and aesthetic value.

Community Engagement

St. Jerome’s Church has always been at the heart of the community, serving not just as a place of worship, but as a center for cultural and religious activities. The church’s long history is intertwined with the shifting demographics of the neighborhood, and it has continued to evolve to meet the needs of its parishioners.

In the mid-20th century, the church saw the addition of a shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe. This was an important development as it acknowledged the growing Mexican population in the area. The shrine is now a central part of the church’s offerings and serves as a point of spiritual focus for the community.

The Church’s Role in the Community

Beyond regular Mass services, St. Jerome’s Church offers a range of other religious services and programs:

Mass Services: The church holds Mass services in both English and Spanish, reflecting the cultural diversity of the parish.

Sacraments: The church continues to offer traditional Catholic sacraments such as Baptism, Communion, Confirmation, and Marriage.

Religious Education: St. Jerome’s also offers religious education programs for children and adults. These programs help to strengthen the faith of parishioners and engage the wider community.

Community Outreach: The parish is actively involved in local outreach and charity work. This includes providing assistance to those in need, both within the parish and in the surrounding neighborhoods.

Closure of St. Jerome’s School

St. Jerome’s Church was once home to St. Jerome’s School, a Catholic school that served the community for over a century. Unfortunately, due to financial constraints and changing enrollment patterns, the school closed in 2010. The closure marked the end of a significant chapter in the parish’s history, as the school had long been a central part of the church’s work in educating local children. This decision was met with sadness by many in the community who had deep connections to the institution.

The Present Day

Today, St. Jerome’s Church remains an important spiritual and cultural center in the Bronx. It serves the local community with a mix of traditional and contemporary offerings, always striving to meet the evolving needs of its parishioners. The church has a strong focus on inclusivity and ensuring that all individuals feel welcomed, regardless of their background.

The church continues to honor its rich history while adapting to the needs of the modern world. Its role in the neighborhood extends beyond religious services to include social justice and community engagement, ensuring that it remains a vital part of Bronx life for generations to come.

For those interested in visiting or learning more, St. Jerome's Church remains a beacon of faith and community in the Bronx, always welcoming new members and continuing to serve its diverse population.