Christ Church Riverdale Marks 160th Anniversary

The historic Bronx church received official state and local proclamations during a recent commemorative gathering.

Updated on Oct. 23, 2026 in Civic

Screen-print poster illustration of a historic stone church facade with a tall steeple, evoking Bronx heritage. — Christ Church Riverdale celebrated its 160th anniversary on October 18, receiving local government proclamations recognizing its historic Bronx community contributions. AI Illustration. Upload story photo >

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Christ Church Riverdale celebrated its 160th anniversary with a special gathering on October 18, 2026. The landmark institution received multiple ceremonial proclamations from New York government officials.

Why it matters

The church remains a central fixture in the Bronx, balancing its historic status as an 1866 foundation with active engagement in modern social justice issues.

The church currently serves a congregation of just over 250 members. It has operated as a protected New York City landmark for nearly 60 years.

The players

Kathy Hochul

She is the Governor of New York who issued a ceremonial proclamation for the church.

Vanessa Gibson

She serves as the Bronx Borough President.

Emily Lukanich

She is the mother who became the church's first female rector five years ago.

Lou Gehrig

He was a legendary New York Yankees baseball player whose funeral took place at the church.

Fiorello LaGuardia

He was a former Mayor of New York City who held membership at the church.

The details

Located at 5040 Henry Hudson Parkway E., the church maintains a notable history that includes the funeral of Lou Gehrig and membership of former Mayor Fiorello LaGuardia. Today, the parish operates a weekly food pantry and manages a Social Justice Ministry that discusses the history of racism, alongside a policy prohibiting ICE officers from entering the building.

1866: The church was officially established.
1967: The church became a New York City landmark.
October 18, 2026: The church held its 160th anniversary gathering.

Industry Dynamics

The anniversary highlights how historic houses of worship adapt their community roles to navigate the evolving cultural landscape of urban environments. This longevity contrasts with modern trends of declining membership in traditional congregational spaces.

Local residents can utilize the church's weekly food pantry services and participate in their ongoing community forums regarding social justice history. These resources remain open to the public regardless of congregational membership status.

The takeaway

The church serves as an example of how historic institutions can integrate modern advocacy into long-standing traditions of community service. Residents interested in local history may find the church's archives and landmark-status records particularly valuable for understanding the area's development.