Stockade gets first convent

According to Sister Joan Vlaun, OP, pastoral associate for faith formation for St. John the Evangelist, Holy Cross and St. Mary's parishes, the Front Street structure now known as Holy Cross Convent has the distinction of being the first convent in the Stockade.

The Stockade Association notes that the neighborhood takes its name from the original fort structure built by Dutch colonists. In 1661, the Stockade was chartered by the Dutch governor as the village of Schenectady.

Historic attack

Everyone within the stockade gate was killed; the homes of 70 settlers outside of the walls were also pillaged and burned, and the residents killed. There were only four survivors.

According to the Stockade Association, one Native American tried to intervene on the settlers' behalf. A Mohawk, he was a friend to the settlers and was affectionately called "Lawrence." Today, there is a monument to him in the circle at Front, Ferry and Green streets. Just down the street from this monument is the new convent.

Roots of convent

She has already been able to gather some of the recent history of the building. Prior to World War II, the two-story structure served as a grocery store. During the war, it was a poolroom, and it once housed an awning business.

One couple purchased the house for a song. In 1943, they bought the house next door. The seller also owned the convent; but it needed some work, so he threw in the property for an additional $500. The couple went on to live in the house for over 30 years and raised four children in it.

Dead and living

Two college professors, Martin Weinstein and Jacqueline Boon, most recently owned the house. They lived there for more than 20 years and raised their two children in it.

"Both children received their First Communion at St. John the Evangelist Church," said Sister Joan. "They feel it is an honor that the home is now referred to as Holy Cross Convent."

New uses

"It's an absolutely charming neighborhood," she said. "Everybody smiles and greets you. It's a friendly atmosphere."

Opening a convent in the Stockade couldn't have come at a better time. The cluster of St. John the Evangelist, Holy Cross and St. Mary's works together on ministry efforts. With all of the activities that take place in the three parishes, Holy Cross is being utilized more and more for small group gatherings, Sister Joan said.

For example, she has held cluster RCIA meetings at Holy Cross. The cluster Altar Rosary Society held its evening of recollection at Holy Cross, and a book group meets regularly there. Other ministries are looking at using Holy Cross for gatherings as well.

Said Sister Joan, "Holy Cross parishioners are happy to have a convent."

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