The historic Church of the Holy Rosary in Edgewater NJ is at risk.

A hub of community life for more than 100 years, the church is now included in a sweeping initiative to restructure and downsize local parishes.

According to a June 8, 2025 letter sent out by Cardinal Tobin of Newark Archdiocese, “this process calls for an honest evaluation of current practices and structures. Some ministries will be renewed; some parish alignments may change. Over time, mergers or closures will be necessary.”

Holy Rosary is included on the list of proposed mergers.

We are campaigning to ensure that our small but beloved church survives.

The Church of the Holy Rosary (founded 1904), is a beautiful Romaneque Revival building with intricate brickwork. It is the setting for a complete set of 15 Stained Glass Rosary windows by renowned glass artist Emil Zundel, whose windows can also be seen in St Patrick’s Cathedral NYC. Executed in the European antique painted style, the windows are 17 feet high, and are said to rival that of Tiffany. Other colorful and ornate windows adorn the church which were paid for by hard-working parishioners, many of whose descendants still attend mass in the church.

Also noteworthy is the main altar, flanked by beautiful twin angels and a domed tabernacle of white Carrera marble, displaying marvelous craftsmanship by early 20th century sculptor Domenico Borgia. For these beautiful features, we are seeking recognition of the church as a historic landmark site. 

Holy Rosary is on an upward trend, ever increasing active parishioners and new baptisms. It is the only church remaining in the town, and the sole house of worship in the borough. Comforting bells continue to ring daily, calling the faithful to prayer. Community outreach, education, lectures and films are held, as well as a monthly food pantry that benefits vulnerable people in the area. 

Holy Rosary Church is a vibrant and essential part of our community.
We wish to ensure it continues well into the future. 

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[Spanish] La Iglesia del Santo Rosario ha sido mencionada recientemente en una propuesta para reducir y reestructurar las parroquias locales. Nos han dicho que, con el tiempo, serán necesarias fusiones o cierres. Fundada en 1904, la Iglesia del Santo Rosario es la última iglesia que queda en el pueblo. Alberga una singular colección de hermosas vidrieras. Además de su ministerio, la iglesia organiza programas educativos para adultos y jóvenes y gestiona un banco de alimentos mensual. La Iglesia del Santo Rosario es una parte vibrante y esencial de nuestra comunidad. Deseamos que continúe por muchos años más.