St. Malachy Church - The Actors' Chapel, New York

Nestled amidst the bustling theaters of Broadway, mere steps away from Times Square, lies St. Malachy's Church. In the midst of towering buildings, this Catholic church may easily go unnoticed if one isn't attentive. However, in the heart of New York City, it is better known as the Actor's Chapel, having been standing before the Theater District settled in the area. As a result, it became a place of worship for actors, dancers, and musicians.

To cater to the unique needs of the entertainment community, Monsignor Edward F. Leonard, the pastor, had the Chapel of St. Genesius, also known as the "Actors' Chapel", constructed below the main church in 1920. He sought special permission from the Archbishop of New York to hold Masses at 4 AM, despite it being banned by canon law at the time. This timing accommodated the non-standard schedules of theater workers, ensuring convenience in their worship.

St. Malachy's quickly became a prominent place of worship for those in the entertainment industry. Its fame reached a global scale when it hosted the funeral of Rudolph Valentino and the wedding of Douglas Fairbanks Jr. to Joan Crawford. Celebrities and theater enthusiasts alike frequented the church, and the nearby presence of Madison Square Garden during that era ensured a constant stream of visitors. At its peak in the late 1960s, the church attracted an average monthly attendance of around 16,000 people. The church's chimes would melodiously play the tune "There's No Business Like Show Business."

Since March 2018, Rev. John F. Fraser has taken on the role of pastor, carrying forward the vision of serving not only the local community but also the entertainment industry. St. Malachy's Parish, with its distinctive mix of local parishioners, tourists, and professionals from the performing arts, continues to embody a welcoming haven where "Catholics can always come home". Regardless of one's background, all are embraced and invited to be a part of this inclusive community.