
About The Sacred Site
St. Raphael Roman Catholic Church, located in Long Island City, is a cherished architectural and spiritual landmark that has served its community for generations.
Completed circa 1885 and attributed to noted ecclesiastical architect Patrick Keely, it was primarily used a funerary chapel for the adjacent Calverary cemetery until it transformed into a parish church as the neighborhood around it was developed. Its enduring presence in the neighborhood has made it a cornerstone of local faith and heritage. The church exemplifies traditional ecclesiastical design, with a sturdy brick façade and a prominent steeple that has stood as a beacon of faith for decades. Its architecture reflects a blend of traditional and modern design elements, showcasing intricate brickwork and timeless craftsmanship. The new copper crosses (key features of both the Steeple and of the Apse), are both symbols of faith and a testament to the artisans who contributed to the
church’s original construction and its recent restoration.
Website: https://straphael-queens.org/
Date of Construction: 1885
Architect / Builder: Patrick Keely
Activities
Pre-book a guided tour Saturday, May 17, 2024
11:00 a.m.-12:00 p.m.
Join Zaskorski & Associates Architects for an exclusive tour of the recently restored St. Raphael’s Church, recent winner of a Lucy G. Moses Preservation Award.
Participants will explore the extensive renovation work that has brought new life to this historic 1880s structure. Guests will have the opprtunity to view the exterior and interior of the building.