#USA #Catholic Cemeteries #North Arlington #Memorial Day #NJ Veterans

Memorial Day Masses to Honor Our Heroes

The Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark are making arrangements for a significant event: special Masses on Memorial Day, scheduled for May 26, 2025, at 11:00 a.m. This occasion is open to the public and serves as a heartfelt tribute to the veterans who have sacrificed their lives for the nation, as well as those who currently serve in the military.

The theme for this year’s observance is "Serving God and Country: A Memorial Day Salute to Our Heroes." Attendees are encouraged to gather in prayer at one of the seven cemeteries in the Archdiocese. Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin will celebrate the main Mass at the Holy Cross Cemetery located in North Arlington. Meanwhile, other bishops and clergy will lead services at additional sites.

Locations and Celebrants

The list of participating cemeteries and their respective celebrants includes:

• - Holy Cross Cemetery, North Arlington, NJ – Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., D.D.
• - Gate of Heaven Cemetery, East Hanover, NJ – Most Reverend Manuel A. Cruz, D.D.
• - Maryrest Cemetery, Mahwah, NJ – Most Reverend Michael A. Saporito, D.D.
• - Saint Gertrude Cemetery, Colonia, NJ – Most Reverend Elias R. Lorenzo, O.S.B., D.D.
• - Holy Name Cemetery, Jersey City, NJ – Most Reverend Gregory J. Studerus, D.D.
• - Christ the King Cemetery, Franklin Lakes, NJ – Very Reverend John J. Chadwick, S.T.D.
• - Holy Sepulchre Cemetery, East Orange, NJ – Reverend Philip J. Waters, O.S.B.

This annual event not only commemorates those who paid the ultimate price for their service but also aims to uplift the spirits of all who have served and continue to serve bravely.

Importance of the Event

According to Joseph M. Heckel, K.H.S., CCCE, Executive Director of Catholic Cemeteries, these gatherings remind participants of the shared duty to honor veterans through remembrance and prayer. He remarked, "We invite everyone to come together in unity, reflection, and remembrance during these meaningful Masses."

The Memorial Day Masses will mostly be held outdoors, ensuring a respectful and serene environment for all participants. Notably, the Gate of Heaven and Maryrest Cemeteries will offer indoor services in their mausoleums, providing accommodations for any adverse weather conditions.

This year’s events will take place against the backdrop of two ongoing construction projects at Holy Cross Cemetery: the Open-Air Mausoleum of the Holy Spirit and the Chapel Mausoleum of Our Lady. Both projects are designed to create a campus-like atmosphere that honors the sacred nature of the grounds.

A Time for Reflection

These services provide an opportunity for cherished reflection and a moment to express gratitude towards those who have served with valor. Members of the community are warmly invited to join in this solemn holiday celebration to honor their heroes. For additional details and to access a video tribute, please visit the official website at rcancem.org/memorial-day-mass.

Throughout the year, Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark continues to recognize veterans through monthly memorial Masses, observances on Veterans Day and Flag Day, and the placing of American flags on the graves of veterans.

If you would like more information about the Catholic Cemeteries and their services, please contact a Memorial Planning Advisor at email protected] or visit [rcancem.org. Spanish speakers are also welcomed to explore resources available in their language by visiting rcancem.org/en-espanol.