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THE FIRST TWO YEARS (Taken from 1977's commemorative booklet) The
formation of a new parish in the Absecon area of The
new parish had a rich beginning. Five
acres of land in Absecon, a small chapel built on this area, a recently
purchased (by the Camden Diocese) house and property adjoining the main plot,
and use of the facilities at the Diocesan high school located in Absecon were
to serve as the main foundation in formation of the parish. The acquisition of
the future church site and the creation of the chapel were accomplished while
Msgr. Gottfried Keis was pastor of On The
first of many changes began as the small ranch house on
591 New Jersey Avenue
mushroomed into a two story
rectory. Completely remodeled into a home for the parish priests, the rectory
now contains offices for the pastor and his assistant, CCD offices and supply
areas, and an all purpose meeting room. Ceremony of Installation of Fr.
Michael J. Coyne as founding pastor of In late winter, Fr. Coyne sought to
develop the parish CCD program. An
outstanding response of many concerned and willing parishioners was received.
Use of the classroom facilities at By
early spring the first sacramental classes had fulfilled their commitments and
were ready to receive the sacraments of Reconciliation and Eucharist on In June the Cyrenean Club began to
take shape, and Fr. Coyne's generosity toward those giving of their talents was
realized. On Summer brought some drastic changes
in the young parish's life. According to civil and canon law a parish has the
status of a corporation, and a corporation must have two trustees. Fr. Coyne
announced the appointment of Francis Blee and Edward Me Nierney as the
trustees of the parish on Open house for the remodeled rectory
on August of
1975 can be considered the month of new faces. Suddenly the rectory was filled
with a concerned staff ready to satisfy the diversified needs of the community. The first appointed assistant, Fr.
John Vignone, arrived to assume the duties of his first priesthood assignment.
He soon proved to be a valued compliment to the founding pastor. Fr. John Vignone graduated from For
months Fr. Coyne had labored to have a religious Director of Religious Education
assigned to his infant parish and Sr. Rita
Francis, O.S.F. was the answer to
many prayers and pleas. Sr. Rita began her position as the first Director of
Religious Education of Sister Rita
Francis is a member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Sr. Rita
has taught on the primary and secondary levels, besides teaching CCD. She has
served as a Principal, Convent Superior, Coordinator of Religious Education,
Organist, Choir Director and Extraordinary Minister of the Eucharist prior to
her coming to It now became apparent that a parish secretary was needed and
applications were reviewed. Kathy Taylor, an active parishioner became the
first parish secretary and started her job in the rectory complex. Kathy held
her position until February of 1976. Her family's relocation was the reason for
her departure. An S 0 S from the rectory was posted to secure the first
rectory housekeeper. Ruth Hale soon filled the needed position. Now
the rectory was humming with activity. Preparations were being made for the
historic canonization of the patroness of the parish on While
Pope Paul VI celebrated the official canonization of Elizabeth Ann Bayley Seton
in Hundreds
gathered to rejoice with the parishioners and clergy to pay homage to the first
American born saint. The liturgy, auditorium decorations and jubilation of the
congregation reflected the mood that, "She was a woman, a very special
woman." The
parish used this special occasion to hold the first parish dinner at Holy Spirit
High School. Bishop
James L. Shad, Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Camden, represented the area
in the canonization festivities at The
gifts included a first class relic of Elizabeth Seton, a large metal medallion
struck in the new saints image and honor, and a copy of the canonization liturgy
actually used during the At
the end of this busy September, Fr. John began his duty as moderator of the
newly formed youth group. The new CCD school year began and the parish began
losing its neophyte characteristics. In
November the choir was formed and December brought about many preparations for
the first Christmas holidays. The
founding pastor again displayed his deep generosity toward his many hard working
parishioners by giving a Christmas party in their honor. The
first Christmas of the parish was a beautiful holiday. Fr. John with the help of
members from the youth group and other parishioners used the funds supplied by
specific memorial donations to transform the chapel and auditorium into charming
displays of the season. The congregation could only anticipate how lovely the
first Christmas would be when a church would be completed. The
choir made its debut, the parishioners were caught in the infectious spirit of
community and the clergy had found a home in the hearts of the congregation. 1975
was truly a growing experience for many. It is not often that an individual can
participate in the formation of a parish. The
first celebration of Parish
events of '76 followed in the patterns formed in the previous year. The building
of the church now began in earnest. The plans and subsequent accomplishments are
of such interest that a separate, detailed account is given. In
March of 1976 Betty Jane Kane, a parishioner, filled the position of parish
secretary vacated by Kathy Taylor. One of her first duties was assisting in the
necessary preparation for the parish's first celebration of Confirmation. Bishop
Guilfoyle made his second visit to the parish on The
growing parish life became evident as many different activities took place. The
parish gained a well rounded makeup. In November
of 1976 Fr. Coyne, Sr. Rita and Fr. John saw a need for unity in the field of
parish liturgies. From this decision the Liturgical Committee was formed. As 1975 can
be called the year of parish formation and 1976 can be named the year of
building plans and decisions, 1977 must be titled the year of construction. 1977 began
in the country's most severe winter, but January 30th warmed the hearts of
parishioners as ground was broken for the much anticipated church. Watching
the church grow from foundation to roof became the favorite pastime and an item
of conversation for many of the congregation. In nine months the complex was
ready for use. The parish
held festivities over a ten day period beginning with an "Open House"
on Bishop
George H. Guilfoyle made his third visit to the parish on The first
ecumenical service was held in the new church on Great
foundations had been laid, a parish was formed, a patroness was canonized,
and a beautiful church complex had been completed in less than three years. It
was a time for jubilation and praise, thanksgiving and hope, and a fulfillment
of Christ's teachings. This was not an end, but a new beginning to live the
Chistian way of life. All can now
anticipate the future celebrations in the new church and the growth of
religious convictions. The past three years are a living proof that God has
guided and blessed his children. It is now fitting that all follow the last
words of The largest
segment of the CCD system is the regular teaching of Christian Doctrine to the
school age children. On Sunday mornings from Classes for
special education students are also held regularly by a qualified special
education teacher in a home situation. In addition, twenty teenagers and adults
make up a fine corps of helpers and regular substitutes. Adults have
opportunities to continue their Catholic education too. Sr. Rita initiated and
teaches an adult class in analyzing the scriptures during the week. The
scripture class began in autumn of 1976. Lecture classes on the scriptures
have also been sponsored by the CCD program affording night classes for those
who desire to attend. In response to the changes in procedure concerning the sacraments, various workshops are
held for parents. Those having children receiving Baptism, First Penance, First
Communion and Confirmation meet on several occasions before the sacrament is received.
These workshops explain any changes in the administering of the sacrament and
also give guide lines to the parents on how to create an atmosphere for the
child to gain an exciting religious experience. Sr. Rita, Fr. John and Fr. Coyne
also explain the sacrament programs the children are working with in CCD or at
On The school
is administered by the principal who is a member of the Sisters of Saint
Francis of There are
69 students attending RELIGIOUS TRADITIONS Father Coyne has impressed upon the parish, the importance of
prayer in daily life. In an effort to bring the many benefits of special prayer
services to the church members several liturgies were initiated in 1976. These
liturgies have been met with tremendous acceptance and attendance. In May of
1976 special monthly Wedding Anniversary Masses were innovated. On the third
Wednesday of every month the Novena
devotions were begun in September of 1976. The first novena was dedicated to
the parish patroness, Parish
pilgrimages and trips to various meetings and rallies of important Catholic
moral issues in the area have had great support from the congregation. The
first Parish pilgrimage to the National Shrine of MAY CROWNING The
first May crowner was Cynthia Erdman. Cindy was chosen by chance from the
members of the First Communion class. In
1976 a crown bearer was added to the ceremony. The practice of picking the crowner
and crown bearer from the members of the First Communion class still remains. LEGION OF
MARY The
Legion of Mary was started in the Absecon area in August of 1973, and used When
The
Legion of Mary performs many tasks in the form of Christian service. Members
cared for the Chapel and its grounds. Various members visit the sick, aid the invalid,
and participate in various church functions. Members also meet weekly to pray
the rosary together. Fr. Coyne is the Spiritual Advisor of the Legion. An
interesting and well attended Ecumenical Lenten Series has highlighted the
Lenten seasons in the past. Yearly, St. Elizabeth Ann Seton parishioners
maintain an integral part of the Absecon Vacation Bible School Program. LITURGICAL COMMITTEE In late
autumn of 1976 the parish administration decided that unification of liturgical
oriented groups was needed. Fr. John Vignone, associate pastor, assumed the duty
of moderator and helped form the liturgical committee. Emil Buckow was chosen
chairman. Members
represent the choir, guitar group, leaders of song, organists, lectors, altar
boys and parishioners. The committee attended a program of three workshops
sponsored by the Diocesan Liturgical Committee. Aim, purpose, and educational
goals were developed from the input at meetings. The
committee meets monthly to plan, perfect, educate, and play a role in the spiritual
formation of parish community, especially in regard to all liturgy
celebrations. The
committee to run more efficiently has formed two sub-committees of art and
music. Youth representatives have also been added to have a complete cross
section of the parish. PARISH CHOIR The parish choir began forming in November of 1975. Joan
Sbrolla, an experienced music teacher, has directed the twenty women and men
since this time. The 'choir made its first public appearance at Midnight Mass on
Christmas of 1975. Presently,
the choir practices weekly and prepares extensively for the major holydays. It
also performs at one regular Mass monthly. The choir spent many hours
preparing for the dedication ceremonies in the new church. The choir
welcomes anyone with a mature singing voice, regardless of age, to join. About
70 youths, ages 8 to 17, are members and willingness to learn the guitar and
the ability to work with others are the only requirements for membership. The
group meets in the Tully home for weekly lessons. Seventeen girls and boys
regularly play for Church liturgies. The
group also participates in Christian service by playing for various hospitals
and religious institutions. Joe Tully has compiled and copywriter the music
books used by the group and the church congregation. FUND
RAISING SOCIALS To
list the many dedicated and tireless individuals who have contributed so freely
to the good of their church is indeed a great task. There are so many people who
have helped in so many varied ways that to record all the information is
impossible. To prevent hurting any individual who may go unrecognized by
omission only the firsts of the varied events have been listed. 1975 September 14 First Parish
Dinner December Freezer of Beef and Freezer Raffle 1976 February 29
Spaghetti Dinner March 13
Parish Dance April 9
Fashion Show Food Raffle August
22 Chicken Bar-B.Q. September
26 Breakfast CYRENIAN
CLUB Plans for
the Cyrenian Club began formulating in June of 1975. The purpose of the club is
to aid with the financial burden of building and running a church while giving
an incentive and reward to the members. The club derives its name from the
incident of Simon of Cyrene helping Jesus to carry His cross on the road to The club
works on the following principles : One hundred captains or promoters became
members and they in turn must ask ten individuals to be members of the club. All
members pay $1.00 per week membership dues. Total membership never exceeds 1100
members. Once a week a member's number is picked by chance and that number
receives $500.00. The captain who sponsored that member receives $100.00,
($50.00 if 10 members are not sponsored by the promoter) and the parish
benefits by gaining $500.00. David and
Marion Boney, Paul Car-berry, Mary Lou Carberry, Lou and Marge Crist and Ed
Seller are the parishioners who organized the captains and helped distribute the
tickets. The first Cyrenean Club winner was Pat Kerstetter with No. 470 the
lucky number. The first drawing was held on YOUTH GROUP The Parish youth group first met on The first youth advisory board members were: Jim Wenz, Mia
Campo, Liz Ann dark, and Judy Hurd. The youth
group is a religious, social, cultural and service oriented organization. In the
past the group has participated in the C.Y.O. sports programs, sponsored various
dances and decorated the chapel and Holy Spirit High School auditorium for the
Christmas and Easter holydays. YEAR OF PLANS AND DECISIONS
1976 may
have been the much anticipated Bi-Centennial year for Americans but for the
parishioners of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton it will be remembered as the year of
plans and decisions toward the building of the church facility. In February of
1976, Father Michael J. Coyne, Founding Pastor, appointed a building committee
to oversee the erecting of a church complex to suit the needs of a growing
Catholic community. The building committee consisted of eight parishioners,
Father John Vignone, first appointed Associate, Sister Rita Francis, O.S.F., Director
of Religious Education, and Father Coyne. The committee approached the task
immediately and questionnaires were mailed to 720 parishioners with 189
responding. Results showed that the people desired the facilities be completed
within one to two years. A church with an adjoining all-purpose hall,
contemporary in design, with a seating capacity of 350-600, within a price range
of $400,000 to $500,000 was the consensus. In March,
1976, the finance committee was appointed to study the manner in which to obtain
funds. It decided that a program guided by a consultant would be the most
advantageous approach to realize the necessary funds for the complex. The man
selected for the position was Joseph "Len" Reilly. As the program
began operation, it became necessary to hire a secretary-bookkeeper and Ellen
Coyne, a parishioner, was hired for this position. When a
meeting was held at Holy Spirit auditorium, the parish participation resulted in
the kick-off of a fund raising program. Rose Fenton and Stan Marczyk were
appointed co-chairpersons. That evening it was also decided that there would
be three phases to the campaign, memorial, founders and general. Herb Kraker
was elected to head the memorial phase and captains and committees were
instructed to start contacting interested persons. Parishioners and friends
responded. favorably
with pledges. In May the founders phase was initiated and this too was received
favorably. And finally the general phase was completed in June. When all results
were tabulated it was clear that the enthusiastic efforts had exceeded all
expectations. The entire community was jubilant and celebrated with a party
which included friends, committees and contributors. Meanwhile
the building committee interviewed five architects, Von Uffel & Russo of
Haddonfield, N. J., was approved and appointed by the committee, Pastor, and
the Diocese. Sketches and drawings of the proposed church and hall were soon
on display for the parishioners. In October the elevations and blueprints of
the Church and hall were submitted to the building committee and plans went out
for bids. In November bids were opened and it was announced that the general
contractor would be Roland Aristone, of Marlton, N. J., with a basic bid of
$539,170. GROUND BREAKING CEREMONY Less than
two years after Bundled
against the cold, Fr. Michael J. Coyne, Founding Pastor, blessed and broke the
ground for the new church. Two shovels had been donated for the happy occasion
and Fr. Coyne had a difficult task to turn the frozen sod with each. Sister
Corda Marie, Superior General of the Sisters of Saint Francis of "Heavenly
Father, You made the earth and from it you made man. From You everything good
takes its origin and receives its steady and full growth. We ask You to bless
this ground on which we will build a church and hall in which You will be
honored and worshipped and in which we will grow spiritually and socially. As we
open the ground and
lay a foundation for this building, we ask You to open our hearts to let in Your
Son, Jesus, so that He will be the foundation of life. Bless the
people of our community, reward them for their goodness and may they always
have warm hearts and warm homes. We ask this through Christ Our Lord.” On Members of the building committee and liturgical committee
were guides posted about the complex. The guides explained the many points of interest
to the visitors. A slide presentation of the building progress was shown
at regular intervals. Visitors were treated to refreshments served in the hall. The Open
House proved to be a day of local interest and enjoyment Fr. Michael
Coyne, Founding Pastor, gave the first homily in the new church. Fr. James
Durkin, assistant to the Bishop, was the Master of Ceremony with Fr. John
Vignone,
first parish assistant, acting as assistant Master of Ceremony. The diligent
preparations by the choir, guitar group, and liturgical committee enhanced
this festive and historic celebration. The parish
continued its festivities by sponsoring a cocktail party, dinner, and dance in
the new social hall. Three
hundred fifty people helped to christen the new hall. Msgr.
Joseph Stoerlein, a native of Absecon, was the guest speaker. According to
available records, Msgr. Stoerlein is the first and only ordained priest from
the town of Other invited guests
included Msgr. Martin McMahon, Dean of Atlantic County, Msgr. Joseph Doherty,
Vicar General of the Diocese of Camden, Msgr. Gottfried Keis, Founding Pastor of
Assumption, Sr. Rose Cecilia, Vicar General of the Sisters of St. Francis of PHYSICAL
DESCRIPTION OF THE CHURCH Roland Aristone of Marlton was the general contractor. John
F. Meade, Inc. of Merchantville was the electrical contractor and John H. Moore
Co. of Atlantic City was the plumbing contractor. The main entry from the parking lot has a long covered
walkway which provides shelter from inclement weather. This entry opens into the
center of the narthex of the building. To the right of the entry, the narthex
becomes the vestibule of the church. The nave of
the church is modern and octagonal covering over 5,000 sq. ft. The church holds
450 worshipers comfortably. The altar is the focal point with a back wall of
imported Italian marble. Columnar stained glass windows rise 29 ft. to act as a
back drop for the eleven foot cross and six foot statue of the Resurrected Christ. Four and one half foot statues of the Blessed Mother and The statues
of the Risen Lord, Mary, Joseph, and the sixteen inch stations of the cross,
which line the sides of the nave, are of contemporary design and were specially
carved in The white
stone, wood paneling, and the wood laminated steel arches fuse with the russet
carpet and pale marble to create a simple and warm tone. The carpet was supplied
by Avalon Tile and Carpet Co. of North-field. The
columned windows along the sides of the altar and church, and the large triangular
window at the rear of the nave were constructed by Roy A. Calligan, Jr. of At the rear
of the nave is a shrine to The church
hall is over 4500 square feet and provides seating room for 350 people. A stage
area of 12 feet by 20 feet is to the front of the building. A kitchen and
storage rooms are conveniently off of the main area. Large glare proof, bronze
framed windows line two sides of the social hall and run along the length of the
narthex. The narthex
provides a meeting area for parishioners before and after services, affords a
delightful view of the front gardens, and provides a dramatic background for the
oil portrait of the patron saint. The cedar roof supports a 36 foot steeple and a four foot
golden cross. The steel framed, aluminum steeple houses a four-speaker carillon.
The immediate area surrounding the church provides parking for 150 cars.
Landscaping around the building has utilized the flora of the Absecon area. SETONIAN The Setonian is the official parish newsletter. Designed to
keep parishioners informed of parish news concerning religious, educational
and social importance, the Setonian is mailed directly to the homes. It first
appeared in August of 1976 and has been distributed
approximately every
three months. |
