ABOUT US
OUR LEGACY
Saint Mary’s Parish began in 1842, founded by Rev. Nicholas Balleis, OSB to serve German-speaking immigrants worshiping at Saint John’s on Mulberry Street. From these humble beginnings grew a resilient community grounded in faith and hospitality.
A PARISH BUILT ON RESILIENCE
After the original church was destroyed during the 1856 Know-Nothing attack, parishioners rebuilt and dedicated a new church on December 20, 1857. That same year, Bishop James Roosevelt Bayley entrusted the parish to the Benedictines of Saint Vincent Archabbey—a partnership that continues to guide our spiritual mission.
ROOTED IN TRADITION, GROWING IN DIVERSITY
By 1987, Saint Mary’s celebrated its historic milestones and the enduring presence of the Benedictine community. Today, the parish is a vibrant family made up of African American, West African, and Caribbean communities, united through worship and service.
A COMMITMENT TO EDUCATION & SERVICE
Saint Mary’s School which later became St. Benedict's Preparatory School - Elementary Division, led by the Sisters of St. Joseph of Chestnut Hill after the Benedictine Sisters of Saint Gertrude Priory in Ridgely, Maryland , were compelled to withdraw from the School in 1968, provides strong academics and Christian formation for children from kindergarten through 6th grade. Our Pierre Toussaint Food Pantry, founded in 1986, continues to serve Newark residents with compassion and dignity.
ALIVE WITH MINISTRY
Through religious education, sacramental preparation, RCIA, cultural celebrations, outreach programs, and active parish ministries, Saint Mary’s remains a beacon of hope in Newark’s Central Ward.
With faith in God and the support of parishioners, the Benedictine Abbey, and the Archdiocese, Saint Mary’s Parish moves forward with purpose—committed to living the Gospel and serving the people of Newark and beyond.