Continuing the effort to preserve Most Holy Redeemer

Photos and reporting by Stacie Joy

A small group gathered outside Most Holy Redeemer Church on Monday evening to call for the preservation and reopening of the historic parish at 173 E. Third St. between Avenue A and Avenue B.

The low-key vigil, held on the eve of the first anniversary of the suspension of regular services, included neighbors, former parishioners and preservation advocates. No candles were lit as in previous vigils, though two attendees wore custom shirts in support of the church.

Several people expressed concern about the church’s finances and future. One attendee, who was married at Most Holy Redeemer, said it broke his heart to see what had become of the parish. Another declined to be photographed because she still works for the Catholic Church and feared possible repercussions. 

Organizers have said that recent actions by the Archdiocese of New York suggest the property could remain permanently closed and eventually be sold.

Parishioners, neighbors and preservationists have urged the Landmarks Preservation Commission to consider the 1851 structure for landmark designation. 

Church leadership previously cited a shortage of priests and concerns about the building’s condition as reasons for moving services to St. Brigid on Avenue B. 

In January, the Department of Buildings issued a "failure to maintain" violation after an inspector observed detached ceiling plaster inside the sanctuary. 

Most Holy Redeemer has reopened only once since regular services ended — for a special Mass in January.

Find the petition about landmarking here. (And write a letter here.) You can follow the Facebook group Save Most Holy Redeemer Historical Church here.