St. Thomas More

St. Thomas More Parish was founded in 1953 to serve the rapidly growing Catholic population of Brighton, with Father Francis J. Pegnam as founding pastor. The new parish drew its membership from five existing parishes, including Our Lady of Lourdes, and was geographically centered on East Avenue and Clover Street.

In June 1954, the Diocese made an offer for the 14½ acre Drescher property at 2615 East Avenue, which included an imposing main house and three other usable structures. After negotiations, the Diocese acquired the property for $100,000 with the condition that Mrs. Drescher retain life use of the homestead.

What followed was a landmark legal battle that would shape religious freedom law in New York State. The Town of Brighton's Zoning Board denied variances necessary to build a church and school in November 1954, a decision upheld by the Town Board. During the prolonged court battles, St. John Fisher College generously provided its chapel and auditorium for daily and Sunday Masses, baptisms, and First Eucharist celebrations. On July 11, 1956, the State Court of Appeals ruled 6-1 in favor of the Diocese, establishing an important precedent for religious organizations.

Construction proceeded quickly after the legal victory, and the church building was completed in July 1958. Bishop Kearney presided over a gala dedication ceremony on November 1, 1958. Today, St. Thomas More is clustered with nearby Our Lady Queen of Peace, continuing to serve the Brighton community.