Never heard the "famous" metaphor! 
Is interesting that "Viz" is only  RC parish open in what was once a YUGE RC Southside. Msgr. Wolfe would be pleased! 
Being open is due to  subsidizes from the archdiocese.  It gave millions to renovate it.  Currently,  more stunning than when at the height of its "Golden Age" under Wolfe.  The paucity of parishioners currently underscores it is simply a museum.  In a sense, it is significant in RC American history.  The largest parochial school ever, most priests ordains, women who entered convents,  bishops, illustrious "lay" persons, etc. It remains a monument to the past, alas!