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The human condition abounds in uncertainty, but for 4,500 parishioners, Epiphany of Our Lord Church, 1121 Jackson St., registers as a surety in securing salvation. The 109-year-old worship site has achieved blessed status, receiving readers’ nods as the top church.
“There’s such a strong love for and commitment to the parish,” 10th-year pastor Rev. John Pidgeon said of the Lower Moyamensing location’s allure. “The pride our members have in our mission is evident with each interaction.
Offering daily services and four weekend masses, the adored structure likewise pleases the religious figure, who feels honored to celebrate the example of Jesus Christ, especially whenever Lent is upon him and his flock. As the 40-day period or sacrifice and contemplation commenced last week on Ash Wednesday, he expects believers to show their devotion in full force and awaits each chance to proclaim gratitude with them.
“I love our community because it understands what is at the heart of the Gospel, which is caring for others,” Pidgeon said of time within the space, whose adjoining rectory supports taht message by hosting weekly food distributions and serving as an aid for those struggling financially.
The church, which could again come to host the parish’s Italian Festival, requires some upkeep, with Pidgeon eager to bring it to fruition to honor the example of its builders and prior generations of devotees. Unaware of its architectural style, he has divine knowledge of its integrity.
“We’ve been fortunate to have a rich history and look forward to even more,” Pidgeon said. “Thank you for the recognition.”
St. Monica Church looked beatific in second place, while Stella Maris Church saved souls in third.
Contact Managing Editor Joseph Myers at jmyers@southphillyreview.com or ext. 124.
2014 Readers’ Choice Awards
Cuisine
Steak ‘Em Up French fries
Philip’s Steaks and Geno’s Steaks (tie) Cheesesteak
PrimoHoagies Hoagie
Lil Nick’s Deli Specialty sandwich
City Pizza Pizza crust
Green Eggs Cafe Brunch menu
Penrose Diner Omelet selection/Diner
Scannicchio’s Italian Restaurant Date night/BYOB
Ristorante Pesto Italian restaurant
Johnny Chang’s Ethnic restaurant (non-Italian)
Breezy’s Café New restaurant (January 2013 to present)
Stogie Joe’s Tavern Bar menu
Nick Elmi Top chef
Sweet Tooth
Isgro Pastries Cannoli/Bakery
Pop’s Water Ice Gelati
Potito’s Cupcakes
Termini Bros Cookies
People
Jason Douglas DJ
The Business Local band
Bobby Rydell South Philly celebrity
Dana Smith Elementary school teacher
Vikings Mummers Brigade
Carl Arrigale High school coach
Neumann-Goretti High school team
Bryan Hughes Youth/recreation league coach
Nick Foles Philly pro athlete
Places
DiBruno Bros. Italian specialty store
Galdo’s Catering Hall
Ten Pennies Florist
Monti Rago Funeral Home, Inc., Funeral home
Packer Park Neighborhood
Epiphany of Our Lord Church Church
Lombardi’s Prime Meats Butcher shop
TLA Music venue
On the Move
Planet Fitness Gym/health club
DanceAdelphia Ballet program
Barry Playground Community pool
Fitness Works Place to take a Pilates class
And Let’s Not Forget
Bartender Category not on this list
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