Answered Prayers? Demolition On Hold at St. Laurentius Church

It was nary 24 hours ago that we reported the unfortunate fate of Saint Laurentius Church, a spiritual and historic center in Fishtown. But all those prayers to save it might, just might, be answered now.

As you may recall, it costs $3.5 million to restore it, versus $1 million to demolish it, so the numbers speak for themselves. But what of its purpose and meaning to the city? The 133-year-old church may be saved by City Council President Darrell Clarke, who expressed his "disappointment" in the demolition and expressed hope of its preservation in a press release.

Stay tuned. Kneeling not necessary.

· Darrell Clarke Calls to 'Hold Off' Demolition Saint Laurentius Church in Fishtown [Philly Mag]
· Archdiocese to Demolish Fishtown's Saint Laurentius Church [Philly Mag]