St. Stephen’s in Danger?

Buried in a corner of the parish bulletin of St. Stephen’s/ Our Lady of the Scapular parish we read the following:

“The Church will be closed until further notice for safety reason, as we are still awaiting an answer from the Archdiocese as to the outcome of the testing of the structural issues. All Sunday Masses will be in the Chapel. The 8 am weekday Mass is temporarily cancelled; you are encouraged to attend the 7:45 am Mass at Our Saviour’s. Thank you for your patience.”

Apparently St Stephen’s – one of the most magnificent Catholic churches on the island of Manhattan – has been closed since late September. That is disheartening news. For often “structural problems” are cited as an excuse for the demolition of churches – especially where historical significance, artistic value or landmark status would otherwise get in the way. Consider, for example, the saga of St. Brigid’s church or of St. Vibiana – the old cathedral of the Archdiocese of Los Angeles. We have said it before and say it again – this is a church that would be the ideal location for any of the traditional communities.

Original can be found HERE.

A description of St.Stephen’s can be found HERE.