Full Breakdown
Community Push to Restore St. Saviour’s Church in Queens
4/5/2026, 12:10:48 PM
The Deteriorating State of St. Saviour’s Church
St. Saviour’s Church, a historic Carpenter Gothic-style Episcopal Church in Maspeth, Queens, has been in disarray since its dismantling in 2008. Originally built in 1847, the church was a community fixture for over 160 years before being sold and subsequently demolished to make way for a warehouse. Currently, the church's remnants are stored in trailers at All Faiths Cemetery, where they are deteriorating. Local community members, including Paul Pogozelski, president of the Middle Village Residents Association, express concern over the church's condition, emphasizing that without immediate action, the structure may be irreparable.
Financial Challenges and Community Efforts
Efforts to restore St. Saviour’s Church have faced significant financial hurdles, with estimates for reconstruction ranging from $6 million to $7 million. The cemetery management has indicated a willingness to accommodate the church's reconstruction on its property but requires financial backing to proceed. James McClelland, the cemetery’s treasurer, stated that the cemetery is exploring more profitable uses for the land, such as a battery storage farm, if the church cannot be rebuilt.
Despite the challenges, community leaders and preservationists have been actively seeking funding and support. The New York Landmarks Conservancy recently inspected the church's remnants and reported that much of the wood remains in good condition, although some parts were damaged in a fire in 1970.
Political Dynamics and Community Sentiment
The restoration project has become intertwined with local politics, as various factions vie for influence over the initiative. Councilman Phil Wong (D-Queens), who has engaged in discussions with Mayor Mamdani and Council Speaker Julie Menin regarding funding, criticized individuals who have not previously participated in the restoration efforts for attempting to gain attention. Wong emphasized the need for a collaborative approach focused on results rather than political drama.
Former Councilman Bob Holden played a crucial role in the church's preservation in 2008, securing $250,000 for its careful dismantling and storage. However, the current leadership of the Juniper Park Civic Association (JPCA) claims that the potential revival of St. Saviour’s is being exploited by rival groups for political gain.
Conclusion: A Call for Action
As the community rallies to save St. Saviour’s Church, the urgency for a financial solution grows. The church's historical significance and the emotional ties of local residents underscore the need for a concerted effort to restore this beloved landmark. Without immediate action, the future of St. Saviour’s Church remains uncertain, with its remnants at risk of further deterioration.
