Saint Mary of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church

Saint Mary of Sorrows Roman Catholic Church stands on Genesee Street as a stone structure displaying Rhenish Romanesque Revival architecture with a prominent tower and a Latin cross floor plan. The building employs local blue limestone and creates a striking presence along the street with its solid masonry walls.

German immigrants established this church in 1872, with architect Adolphus Druiding overseeing construction completed in 1891 using local blue limestone. The building emerged during a period when German communities built strong institutional presences in Buffalo.

The building transformed from a Catholic parish to the King Urban Life Center, now housing the King Center Charter School while maintaining its original altar and chancel.

The building received comprehensive renovations between 1986 and 1996, including new roofing, bell tower repairs, facade cleaning, and modern safety systems. Visitors can view the preserved interior elements today, though the structure now serves educational purposes.

Four classrooms were integrated into the sanctuary space during renovations, creating a hybrid place combining religious and educational functions within a single room. The original altar and chancel remain visible within this repurposed space.