St. John's Roman Catholic Church, Newark

Saint John's Roman Catholic Church, located on Mulberry Street in Newark, is a historic site rich in cultural and religious significance. Established within the Archdiocese of Newark, it stands as the third-oldest Catholic church in the state and the first to be built in Newark, serving as a pioneering institution for the Catholic community in northern New Jersey.

The foundation of Saint John's Church dates back to 1826 when its congregation first convened in the basement of Charles Durning's home, amidst a backdrop of anti-Catholic sentiment in the area. The construction of the Morris Canal and the rise of factories brought many Irish workers to Newark, increasing the need for a dedicated place of worship. The church was completed in 1828, overcoming financial hurdles that nearly resulted in its sale.

Saint John’s underwent several enlargements and renovations throughout the 19th and 20th centuries, which included the integration of the original structure’s walls into newer additions. Notably, it was the first church in Newark to introduce chimes in 1859, enhancing its community presence.

Today, Saint John's is not only a place of worship but also a vital community resource. It runs a soup kitchen, a women’s shelter, and an art gallery for children, earning it the nickname "the people's church" due to its extensive services and outreach to the less fortunate.

The church's historical and architectural significance was recognized in 1972 when it was added to the National Register of Historic Places. As the oldest Roman Catholic church in Newark and a foundational institution for Catholics in the state, Saint John’s continues to be a beacon of faith, service, and community solidarity.