parish history
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This Parish has been serving the needs of Roman Catholics in the Camden County area for more than 100 years. Since that time, we have grown in numbers and in need. Again, welcome to our community, and enjoy reading our history.
Introduction
We are one parish of two separate churches, a unique arrangement in a diocese with only five other missions. We are St. Lucy of Blue Anchor and Sacred Heart of Cedar Brook. Each cherishes its identity. The mission community is older than the base parish. Our two parts have long commingled, with parishioners comfortable worshipping at each other's church, even inter-marrying. Parishioners appreciate being able to choose from the services --such as religious education-- of both churches.
While many of our elders are of a southern Italian descent, all are welcome. We face certain township growth somewhat inhibited by Pinelands-Wetlands restrictions. Farming is still honored even if not as prevalent as in our past. Some members struggle with financial responsibilities. Growth makes it likely that taxes and the cost of living will rise. Despite our mix of traditional country and suburban new arrivals, we are post-Vatican II Catholics intent on passing on to our children our faith in the risen Lord. It is because of our fundamental belief in God that all in our parish exists, i.e., committees, societies, socials, and buildings.
We are here to continue ministering to the needs of our membership and to the non-Catholic community at large. We see our Christian discipleship as something not to be hidden but to be publicized, not to be hoarded but to be shared, not to be trivialized in private piety but enacted in Jesus' catholic love of all, especially the marginalized. We accord our women their equality and any minority its dignity. We consciously seek clergy-lay collaboration and respect.
Check out some history about the area and our parish. Also, review some findings when we celebrated our 50th, 75th Anniversaries and a list of previous pastors and associates.
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If you have additional information, pictures, etc., please contact us.