| The Parish of St. Gregory the Great was
founded in 1906 by the late Monsignor Maurice P. Fitzgerald. It began
as an Irish parish and became largely African American in the 1950's.
Since the mid 1960's the church has catered to a majority Caribbean population.
The current church building, which was constructed in 1915, was dedicated by the Most Reverend Charles E. McDonnell, then Bishop of Brooklyn on November 26, 1916. Designed by the firm of Helmle and Herbert and built by the construction company of Peter Cleary, it was immediately recognized as one of the great treasures of the Brooklyn Diocese. The Romanesque architecture was inspired by the Basilica of Saint Laurence in Lucina. Within this magnificent structure of marble and granite stand elements which could only lead thoughts into the realm of the sacred - religious tapestries woven at the Bedford Armory, English stained |
 |
glass and the Great Apse which is among
the finest examples of 'fresco buono' in New York City.
The life of the Parish of Saint Gregory the Great is centered on the celebration of the Sacramental life of the Church. Jordan Ministry, working with trained catechists and deacons, prepare and welcome new parents to the faith life of the community. Lectors and Ministers of the Eucharist, besides assisting at Mass, bring the Eucharist every week at the Marcus Garvey Manor. Bible Study is held every week to help members prepare for the hearing of the scriptures as Mass. Each day, members make sandwiches for the homeless. Each week members gather to clean the church. The thrift shop is available for persons in need of clothing. The parish community, though changed significantly since 1906, has truly become a place where everyone can find a home. |