Bayonne’s St. Andrew’s Church to close; parish prepares for transition

Following extensive consultations with parish and archdiocesan leadership as well as input from parishioners, Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, has determined that St. Andrew the Apostle Church, located at 10 West 4th Street in Bayonne, will no longer be used for worship or serve as a sacred space. The church building, one of two worship locations for the Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Parish, will close in September.  

The decision follows a thorough review process that incorporated feedback from parishioners, parish leadership, and an assessment of critical factors affecting the parish’s sustainability. Supporting factors included declining Mass attendance, underutilization of two church buildings, ongoing operational challenges, and concerns about the safety of parishioners and visitors. Moreover, the availability of a more sustainable church building within walking distance factored into the final decision.

“It is a difficult decision and personally painful to parishioners, to those serving our Church, and to the community whenever an announcement such as this becomes necessary,” said Maria Margiotta, spokesperson for the Archdiocese of Newark. “Yet, with declining Mass attendance and continuing fiscal challenges, this is the responsible and necessary move to maintain a vibrant and sustainable parish in this community.”

St. Andrew the Apostle Parish and St. Mary, Star of the Sea Parish, merged to form Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Parish in 2016. Despite the merger, there has been a 35% drop in Mass attendance and a 31% drop in income post-COVID. The two churches, just ten blocks away from each other, have continued to face financial struggles. Both buildings need a combined $7.9 million in repairs, but only $3.8 million is available to the parish.

The announcement of the closure was shared with parishioners at Masses on the weekend of July 13 and 14. The archdiocesan announcement conveyed Cardinal Tobin’s gratitude to the parish community and its leadership for their dedication and extensive input throughout this process.

“The information and feedback contributed to a better understanding of the personal stories and attachment to the sacred spaces where we have worshiped and celebrated our faith and spiritual life,” according to the announcement. “The information was also vital in conveying the reality of the parish’s sustainability.”  It concluded with a message to parishioners thanking them for their patience and support during this time of transition and assuring them of Cardinal Tobin’s continued prayers for the parish community and all the faithful.

Preparations are now underway for a final Mass at St. Andrew’s Church, scheduled for September, where Cardinal Tobin will preside. The specific date will be announced during parish Masses in advance.

Parish leadership is working to ensure a seamless transition for continued worship at St. Mary’s Church, aiming for a unified and vibrant future for the Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Parish. They will also continue to consult with archdiocesan leaders regarding the future of the St. Andrew’s Church building, including the disposition of its stained-glass windows, statues, artwork, and other religious items.

For more information and updates on the parish’s transition, parishioners are encouraged to attend Masses and stay connected with Blessed Miriam Teresa Demjanovich Parish at www.bmtparish.org.