History

The early days of St. Joseph of the Palisades Parish were not so unlike the reality of the parish today. It had its beginnings nearly 150 years ago, as ministry to German Catholic immigrants began in the town of Guttenberg. Immigrants escaping political and economic upheavals found encouragement and support and the opportunity to worship the Lord in their Catholic tradition. Likewise today, and over the many years, Catholic men and women and their families have found welcome and comfort. Today's immigrants to West New York, and Guttenberg, and North Bergen come not from northern or southern Europe, but rather from the Caribbean Islands, or from the many countries of Latin America. But all find welcome for their great heritages of faith.

St. Joseph's Parish offers the full service of ministry to all who come to us. Central to all that we do is the celebration of the Eucharist, wherein we find our common faith in the Lord Jesus Christ expressed as He mandated us, "to do this in memory of Me."(see mass schedule) Likewise, it is our joy to celebrate all of the sacramental life of the Roman Catholic tradition, from Baptism and Confirmation, to the sacraments of Reconciliation, Anointing of the Sick, Matrimony and in support to the mission of our Archdiocese of Newark, encouragement to the sacrament of Holy Orders (see sacraments). But the life of St. Joseph's Parish extends into the ongoing daily life of our parishioners as together we form a multi-faceted community of faith. Children of our parish are educated in the faith through a full program of religious education in English and in Spanish.

Many of our children receive a complete education through our fine parish elementary and high schools. Adults receive formation in the faith through the Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults, as well as ongoing courses and discussion groups on the scriptures and Catholic teaching. Devotions of many spiritual traditions and heritages are fostered and celebrated. Preparation for married and family life takes place through our parish Pre-Cana program. Celebration of faith then becomes celebration of life itself. The people of St. Joseph of the Palisades come together for parish dances, and festivals, pilgrimages and excursions of all sorts. We reach out with joy to the people who need us. A social action committee serves food to needy families. A partners in healing team reaches out to the sick and homebound. An active young adults group bring young people together for prayer, social activities and educational and formational programs. These and many other activities define a vital parish community. You are welcome to come and be a part of us. Join us for worship, education, and formation of Catholic community life and joy.