Seven elementary schools to close in June, 2013

The Archdiocese issued a press release on 1.22.2013 titled "Local Boards and Reconfiguration Committees Issue Final Decisions." Rather than interpret the document, I ask you to read it here.
The seven Bronx elementary schools on the list are:
Blessed Sacrament, Beach Avenue
St. Anthony
St. Mary, Star of the Sea, City Island
Holy Spirit, University Avenue
Our Lady of Angels, Kingsbridge Heights
Our Lady of Mercy, Fordham
St. Jerome, Mott Haven

St. Anthony, Commonwealth Ave.

Each photo may be enlarged by clicking on it. The above photos show the church and school on Mansion Street at the corner of St. Lawrence Avenue. The rectory is to the right, around the corner of Commonwealth Avenue. The parish address is 1496 Commonwealth Avenue, Bronx, NY 10460, telephone 718-931.4040. The school address is 1776 Mansion St., Bronx, NY 10460, telephone 718-892-1244. The neighborhood is north of the Cross-Bronx Expressway and south of Tremont Avenue, in the neighborhood called Van Nest.

Ten minutes after a crowded and jubilant sung Mass had finished on 4.10.2011, I took the above photo, which shows the tabernacle atop steep steps and the present altar among the people. A Latin American band (at the left corner) led enthusiastic singing. The crucifix and statues are covered for Lent.

Unfortunately, the archdiocese closed this school in June, 2013.

In Msgr. Shelley's book, see page 481 for the parish of St. Anthony, Van Nest. The parish was established in 1908 for Italians, but now includes faithful of many heritages. For years, the Sisters of Charity staffed the parish school. The above view is from Commonwealth Avenue. The church-within-a-school was built in 1930.



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