School History
Journey Back to Brooklyn
In 1865, Right Reverend John Loughlin, the first Bishop of Brooklyn, invited the Vincentians (Congregation of the Mission) to establish a school providing both solid education and moral training for Brooklyn’s youth. Founded in 17th-century France by St. Vincent de Paul, the Vincentians focused on preaching to the poor and educating clergy.
With land secured by businessman Cornelius Dever, St. John’s opened its doors on September 5, 1870, named in honor of St. John the Baptist. The original College Hall housed both high school and college students until 1880, when a formal distinction was made. Beyond academics, student life flourished, with the founding of the St. John’s Literary Union in 1872 and the formation of the first baseball team in 1892. The basketball program emerged in 1907-08, comprising both high school and college students.
The Moore Memorial Building-Lewis Avenue
As enrollment surged, a dedicated high school building was constructed in 1927: the Moore Memorial Building, named after beloved College President Rev. John W. Moore, C.M. This five-story facility featured top-tier scholastic and athletic resources, including a library, classrooms, offices, a gymnasium, and a swimming pool. St. John’s Prep gained renown for its rigorous academics, moral guidance, and vibrant extracurriculars. When the college moved to Queens in 1955, the high school expanded. However, declining enrollment led to its closure in 1972. Yet, as Rev. John W. Newman, C.M., noted at the farewell Mass, "A vibrant force like St. John’s Prep never dies.”
A changing society and resultant decreased enrollment in the late 1960’s caused the Prep to close its doors in 1972. However, the words of Reverend John W. Newman, C.M., at a special mass of celebration on May 20, 1972, proved to be prophetic: “Of this fact we are certain- a vibrant force like St. John’s Prep never dies. It may change its name. It may cease to function as an academic entity, but St. John’s Prep lives on in the hearts and souls and memories of all who ever administered, taught, or were trained within its walls.
Mater Christi High School
Established in 1961 through the Brooklyn Diocese, Mater Christi High School was built to provide a holistic Catholic education. Bishop Brian J. McEntegart, its primary founder, entrusted the school to the Blessed Mother, emphasizing faith, scholarship, and service. Originally co-institutional, the school was staffed by the Sisters of Mercy, De La Salle Christian Brothers, and lay faculty. In 1974, it became fully coeducational, and in 1977 transitioned to a community-based board as Mater Christi Catholic High School. Guided by its motto, "That They May Have Life More Abundantly," the school shaped generations of leaders and citizens dedicated to God and country.The New Prep
In October 1980, the boards of Mater Christi Catholic High School and St. John’s University established an academic affiliation, reviving the St. John’s Prep name and tradition. Officially reopening in Queens on July 1, 1981, the new coeducational St. John’s Prep maintained its mission of delivering quality Catholic education. The school continues to flourish, offering an exclusive Baccalaureate Program in partnership with St. John’s University, allowing students to complete high school and college in seven years.
Today, St. John’s Prep remains dedicated to its over 150-year-old mission, preparing students to be the leaders of tomorrow in an ever-evolving world.