St. Joseph Church marks 151st anniversary; Newark archbishop likens church to long-married couple

Parishioners attending a Eucharistic celebration. (Photo courtesy of Josh Applegate from Unsplash)

The St. Joseph Church in Hoboken has marked its 151st founding anniversary this month in Hoboken and Jersey City.

As reported, the anniversary celebration took place on Saturday, March 19. It reportedly coincided with the feast day of St. Joseph, the patron saint of families and craftsmen.

Foundation Anniversary Mass

According to Jersey Catholic, the St. Joseph Church conducted a Eucharistic celebration. An estimated 250 Catholic parishioners reportedly took part in the said special Mass.

Cardinal Joseph Tobin, the archbishop of the Archdiocese of Newark, was present at the event. He reportedly served as the principal celebrant of the anniversary Mass.

During his homily, he explained the essence of supporting people's respective parishes. The cardinal even highlighted the connection between parishioners and an older church.

He stressed that this connection may be compared to the relationship between long-married couples. He said that those who have been married for a long time make an effort to maintain their marriage.

Cardinal Tobin noted that couples strive to strengthen their connection beyond the honeymoon period.

The Newark archbishop also greeted the Catholic Christians who joined the anniversary Mass. Moreover, Father Alexander Santora voiced his sentiments about the celebration. He is the pastor of St. Joseph Church.

"The day couldn't be more perfect," the St. Joseph Church pastor further stated. "The cardinal was just wonderful–he was so gracious and kind and patient."

Aside from that, Father Santora also called the special Mass "beautiful." He shared that the faith community was honored to celebrate the anniversary with Cardinal Tobin.

Church Renovations

Jersey Catholic reported that the St. Joseph Church underwent a major renovation project in 2021.

Due to the pandemic restrictions last year, the church was not able to celebrate its 150th year. The health crisis reportedly thwarted any big gatherings and festivities.

The report said that the church just took the opportunity to improve some parts of the building. This served as the St. Joseph Church's way of celebrating its anniversary last year.

The worship house reportedly repointed its facade as part of the restoration project. It also plastered the walls to cover the uneven surfaces of the church's walls.

Apart from that, the restoration also includes the painting of the church's interior. Officials also led in removing the stains and cleaning all the surfaces of the church building.

There are also newly-installed carpets inside the St. Joseph Church. In addition, the Catholic congregation also reportedly set up a new sound system.

Meanwhile, Father Philip Micele Jr. also thanked God for helping in keeping the church open. He is the St. Joseph Church parochial vicar.

"A lot of churches have closed, but St. Joseph's has lasted for 150 years," he added. "God has always provided, so that's something we have to give thanks for."

About St. Joseph Church

As per its website, the St. Joseph Church is a faith community at 61 Monroe Street in Hoboken, New Jersey.

Founded in 1871, the church is considered one of the oldest Catholic churches in New Jersey. In 2008, the St. Joseph Church merged with the parish of Our Lady of Grace to start a new era.