Parish History
The Roman Catholic Church of Our Lady of Guadalupe was founded in 1906 in the Bensonhurst area of Brooklyn.
A simple frame structure with steeple was erected on 15th Avenue facing 73rd Street. In 1908, a larger church was built on the same site, and contained an impressive altar, statuary and ornate Stations of the Cross.
Within a few years the church complex grew to include a rectory, convent and two school buildings. In 1933, the church building was completely destroyed by fire.
A new church was designed in a neo-Italianate style and built on the same location. In 1973, a fire devastated the interior of the 1930s building, destroying or damaging many of its furnishings and windows.
The church was soon rebuilt within the old walls, and included new stained glass windows and a new pipe organ.
2015: Pope Francis Celebrates Mass at Madison Square Garden
On September 25, 2015, Pope Francis celebrated Mass at Madison Square Garden in Manhattan, New York. Our statue of Our lady of Guadalupe, as shown in the pictures, was used to adorn the altar during the beautiful celebration of the Eucharist. Pope Francis's visit to New York City touched many people's hearts and gave hope to many. As a gift from Pope Francis, we were graced with another statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe, located on the left side of the church next to the Carlos Acutis statue and baptismal font. We are honored to have had Our Lady of Guadalupe be a part of this beautiful celebration. Today, you can find the statue on the left side of the altar. We ask that you keep reverence and not touch the glass. If you would like to see more pictures of the mass, you can view the gallery below or visit the parish office.
