The Destruction of Saint Aloysius Gonzaga Church in Saint Louis, Missouri

In July of 2005 the Southside Deanery of the Archdiocese of Saint Louis closed and reorganized many parishes. One of the parishes closed was Saint Aloysius Gonzaga Church, in the ethnic Italian 'Hill' neighborhood. Ultimately, the church was not be reused, although many fought strongly to keep this historic church intact. The parish dated from 1892.

The church is now almost completely destroyed. If you have tender feelings for this old parish church, you may not want to see these photos.





This was a familiar view of the church, sited at the end of Magnolia Avenue. Click for map.




Only the façade and tower remain, with the narthex inside.




A small neighborhood will replace the church. The original plans were criticized for being too nondescript.




A view from a window in the narthex.

ST. ALOYSIUS
PRAY FOR US




PEACE TO ALL WHO ENTER HERE

Peace no more.




This is all that is left of the church.