My Favorite Gem in Philadelphia

The term “House of Worship” is getting a new spin these days with a new generation of developers looking for venues to reuse and repurpose these beloved architectural beauties. Rather than rip them down like our fathers and grandfathers before us, Philadelphia designers are finding homes for residents in churches and basilicas and these long-standing buildings and historic venues are being saved. A city built on history and brotherhood has protected yet another holy house on Fitzwater.

The St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church, was built in 1889 but has since become home to the Greater St. Matthew Baptist Church since Oct. 15, 2000. Once beautifully restored for the most recent parish, this stunning construct has been renovated for the residents of in their new home, Sanctuary Lofts. Renters can have their pick between the cozy St. Jason, the snug St. Matthew the luxurious St. Anthony floorplan. All amenities have held the integrity of the gorgeous significance of the old structure with grandiose windows, vaulted ceilings and even the filigree embellishments in the walkways.

Although these refurbished sanctions no longer offer a place of solitude for a passerby or quick prayer time for someone just strolling through the neighborhood in the formal sense, but these structures are important not only to those inhabitants. St. Anthony of Padua Roman Catholic Church was founded on faith and community and the honor of our ancestors are being upheld in the preservation of these churches. Any resident in Philadelphia, or anywhere, should feel a sense of responsibility for any venue that offers a look back in time. Some can argue that a building is just a building and no feelings need be associated with it but stop and think why it’s there in the first place. One church, one house, one school or any building could have been torn down on any given day if there was not a person with a heart and an idea. It’s nice to see that a 130-year-old church can still provide a home to those who seek comfort in this neighborhood. Only the strong survive in South Philly.