The crowd assembled on the corner to see the unveiling of a street bearing Reverend Flynn’s name.

A crowd of around 100 people gathered together to eagerly witness the unveiling of a street named after a beloved priest who passed away four years ago. Reverend John Flynn served the Roman Catholic Church of St. Martin of Tours for more than 20 years and was honored on May 27.

Since his death, the community admired Revered Flynn for his services around the Bronx.  Residents and church members sought to pay tribute to him.

Joe Padilla, a community member who was touched by Reverend Flynn’s life of service, spent a number of Saturdays getting signatures to have the corner of E. 182^nd and Grote streets to be named John C. Flynn Way.

Reverend Flynn was ordained a catholic priest in 1955 after spending his childhood in receiving his religious training in Yonkers, NY. He was often referred to as the last of the so-called street priests, walking the streets at night asking the youth to trade in their guns for a crucifix.

In September of 2012, he passed away at the age of 83.

Those who knew Reverend Flynn describe him as an activist, having been affiliated with the Northwest Bronx Community and Clergy Coalition.

“He protested against budget cuts and is known for his engagement with the youth,” said Councilman Richie Torres.

While Padilla led a community effort to immortalize Flynn’s contributions, Councilman Ritchie Torres, representing the neighborhood, who lobbied for the street naming at City Hall.

“In the 1990’s, the Reverend started a program to assist high school drop-outs called Save a Generation allowing people to earn their GED’s and prepare for college”.

“Father Flynn was really my mentor for many years,” said Heidi Heinz who is the directory of the Mary Mitchell Family and Youth Center in Crotona. “I felt like he was my partner…it was a great honor to have known him.”

Martha Rodriguez, who is the Secretary of St. Martin of Tours was in tears as she spoke about Flynn at the podium. “He was respected by the whole community and loved by all races,” she said.

Mary Ellen, Reverend Flynn’s sister, was given a commemorative pen Mayor Bill de Blasio used to sign the street naming bill into a law. She was also presented with her own street plaque bearing her brother’s name.

“We have 19 grand children, they would love this,” said Mary Ellen.