St. John’s University broke ground for its first-ever,
freestanding church in October 2002. The University was able to
begin construction of the St. Thomas More Church thanks to a
generous, $10 million gift from the family of John Brennan ‘63SJC,
‘66L.
On Tuesday, April 13, 2004, the University community gathered on
the Great Lawn as the cross was raised atop the chapel. Completed
in September 2004, the Church seats nearly 500 people.
With its octagonal tower and striking central cupola, the St.
Thomas More Church serves as a magnificent addition to St. John’s
Queens campus. The Church stands at the southeastern corner of the
University’s Great Lawn, its front entrance opposite that of St.
John Hall, the stately liberal arts building. Inside the Church,
handcrafted mosaics and stained-glass windows adorn the circular
walls. The Church also includes meeting rooms and office space for
Campus Ministry.