Saint Anthony s Capital Campaign THE CHALLENGE AHEAD
History of Saint Anthony of Padua Catholic Church The early Catholic History of Hightstown and its immediate vicinity is a loyal one. The first Mass to be celebrated in Hightstown and of which there is any knowledge, was in a local home in 1852. In decades to follow, pastors continued to visit, celebrating Mass at different residences and locations.
The Story Continues The real history of the parish began in 1885. Three lots on Franklin St. were purchased for $450 as a suitable site. The only furniture was an inexpensive little altar and a half dozen rough benches. In 1898 Rev. Charles O.M.C. made St. Anthony s his parish home and in the four years hence the little parish made the most astonishing progress both spiritually and financially. Services became plentiful and regular. The church was made attractive, with a handsome altar, carpets, and organ. The strong foundations of faith and community had taken hold in the small Hightstown parish.
Saint Anthony s Grows In 1918 Rev. Edward Whalen came to St. Anthony s from Oxford N.J. He helped with physical changes to the old church and was also responsible for acquiring the beautiful circular stained-glass altar window that today graces the gathering space of our brand new church building. For fifty years the old church was updated and renovated but by 1968, 1,200 registered families made the current church a real necessity. Rev. William J. Haughney was there at the inception to meet this urgent need; a new house of worship. On August 11, 1968 groundbreaking ceremonies were held and the new church, with all its additions, was on the way to becoming a reality. Work continued and the church and catechetical center were dedicated on March 8, 1970 by The Most Reverend Bishop of Trenton, George W. Ahr.
AND GROWS A series of devoted pastors have left their mark on St. Anthony s. Our current pastor, Rev. Fr. Patrick McDonnell is celebrating his 10th year administering to St. Anthony s spiritual and physical needs. Under his leadership there have been many necessary improvements to the parish buildings and grounds. The design, planning and hard work that have brought about the most recent renovations and changes bring honor and glory to this long standing catholic community s loyalty and commitment.
A HISTORY OF ACCOMPLISHMENT Saint Anthony s 1885 Saint Anthony s 1985 Saint Anthony s 2010
How does this Capital Campaign support our ministry? Recent renovations have expanded our worship and community spaces. The new community room, gathering space, Our church is a bustling center for ministry Our church is a bustling center for ministry and worship.
OUR LATEST ACCOMPLISHMENTS The Addition of a 4500 sq. ft. Annex New Heating/Cooling system Improved Lighting system Improved Sound system Refinished Pews Upgraded Organ and Piano Daily Chapel Renovated Sanctuary New Baptistry New Handicap Restrooms
We recognize with gratitude, all who participate be it by prayer, volunteerism or financial participation. Success is measured not in dollars alone, but with the participation of all who make St. Anthony s their parish home. What remains to be done Support for the maintenance of the Church and all it s spaces, the rectory, the school building & campus in all aspects is ongoing Roof repairs, Oil tank compliance and removal, grounds maintenance and beautification Repaving and repairs to the parking lot Memorial Garden
Your participation is an opportunity Pledges Gifts Outright & Deferred Parishioners can have the chance to give their assets for future ministry and outreach. Stocks/ Securities People Giving to People
As you consider making your pledge please keep in mind that remembering Saint Anthony s in your will or bequest is an alternative form of giving that creates a living memory.
WONT YOU CONSIDER THIS INVITATION TO INVEST IN THE FUTURE OF SAINT ANTHONY OF PADUA CATHOLIC CHURCH? Loving God, help us to make a place for you; a beautiful place to come together as your people. Help us to make a place for you in our hearts and lives; a place where truth, goodness and hospitality will grow. We share more than a building Lord! Your spirit has formed us into a community and we pray that we may continue to build your house in love, hope and peace. May your love move us in this Building Campaign to vigorous action, prayerful sacrifice and willing generosity Thank you for those who helped us through these 124 years.