St. John’s Protestant Episcopal Church is an iconic landmark in Yonkers, New York. While still an active house of worship, it is also a cornerstone of community events and a symbol of the long history of our city.
The church was part of the original congregation formed in the region by the British in 1693. Back then, services were held in the houses and barns of the original five families. Years later, the first iteration of their church building was constructed in 1752; being financed by the Philipse family. As the church is older than the country in which it resides, it boasts that George Washington worshiped there. Likewise, during the war of the American Revolution, it treated both patriot and British troops. And in 1869, St. John’s Riverside Hospital was founded by women in the church seeking to aid ill congregants.
Architecture
The church was first extended in 1849. Then, again in 1874 by architect Edward Tuckerman Potter who made modifications to the front facade, which is constructed of rough gray fieldstone with red brick corners. Notably, the front facade boasts a beautiful rose window and four battered buttresses. The church is designed in a cross shape with three bays and has a slate-covered gable roof. The parish house and chapel were built in 1890 and are attached to the church. The rectory, a five-bay-wide, two-and-a-half-story building, was also built at that time and is attached to the chapel. Architect Robert Henderson Robertson designed the additions. The importance and this construction awarded it a place in the National Register of Historic Places in 1982.
Faith and Community
The church practices the Episcopalian denomination of Christianity. Unlike Catholic dogma, this faith allows both men and women to serve as clergy in the church. These leaders, in cooperation with all members of the church, maintain “a legacy of inclusion” that invites all to worship.
We believe that God loves you – no exceptions.
One of the most notable aspects of St. John’s is its commitment to social justice. The church has a long history of advocating for the rights of the marginalized and oppressed. In the 1960s, the church played a role in the Civil Rights Movement, hosting rallies and marches in support of desegregation and equal rights. More recently, the church has been active in the fight against climate change and the push for immigration reform.
St. John’s also has a strong commitment to education. The church runs a Sunday school program for children, as well as adult education classes. Additionally, it hosts lectures and talks by prominent scholars and activists. The Cochran School of Nursing was also founded by the church in 1869.
St. John’s Protestant Episcopal Church is a cornerstone of the city. It not only represents faith, but also the character of Yonkers. It’s building’s historic design and church’s commitment to community make it a vital and beloved institution in the city.
