Parishioners, community members fight to keep historic Yonkers church as is
The Church of the Immaculate Conception, also known as St. Mary's, has been a pillar in the Yonkers community for more than 175 years.
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The fight to save an historic church in Yonkers continues. News 12 has previously reported on this ongoing battle, but a decree from the archdiocese has parishioners concerned about what's next.
"There are so many of us that see this as our home, our worship home," said Isidoro Acevedo, who has been going to St. Mary's for years.
The Church of the Immaculate Conception, also known as St. Mary's, has been a pillar in the Yonkers community for more than 175 years.
News 12 reported in 2024 on a possible closure of the church due to costly repairs. Then, it was set to merge.
Parishioners sent an appeal to the Vatican for the parish to stay independent, which was successful.
However, a decree on the Archdiocese of New York's website from early July says, "the territorial parish of Saint Peter-Saint Denis, Yonkers, New York, and the territorial parish of Immaculate Conception, Yonkers, New York are merged."
"It's very sad, very sad," Acevedo told News 12.
Acevedo says he's concerned about what this means for the future of programs and services, especially because the church has offered various bilingual options through the years.
A spokesperson with the archdiocese previously told News 12 that no further changes are planned at this time and Sunday Mass will continue.
Parishioners are once again appealing to the Vatican.
"We are faithful people and we believe in miracles. We are waiting for a miracle to happen," said Acevedo.
