News and Updates

Dear Parishioners,

As we move into the final months of 2025, I continue to be filled with gratitude for the vibrant spirit and steadfast faith that define our parish community. Your prayers, generosity, and active participation are the heartbeat of St. James, and I’m pleased to share this encouraging update on our journey together.

Parish Campus Redevelopment Project
Since our Mid-Year Report (May 2025), we’ve reached two major milestones: Unanimous subdivision approval from the Township of Springfield and Vatican approval for the sale of the school and convent properties.

These approvals mark a significant step forward in our vision for a renewed parish campus. A closing date for the property sale is forthcoming, and we remain hopeful and excited about the transformation ahead.

Parish Capital Campaign
Following the closing of the property sale, we will officially launch our Parish Capital Campaign. This campaign will begin with major gift solicitation visits led by me, your pastor. We will also unveil the latest design schematic for our new parish center—a space that will serve as a beacon of faith, fellowship, and service for generations to come.

We Are His Witnesses
This past June, the Archdiocese of Newark initiated a pastoral initiative titled We Are His Witnesses. This initiative calls on the entire Church to reimagine parish life, mission, and ministry in response to a changing world. As part of this initiative, we shared with you a snapshot of the results of the Disciple Maker Index Survey (DMI), which offered a positive and insightful view of our parish community. Looking ahead, two parish- wide sessions will be held here at St. James on Tuesday, November 4th at 6pm and Thursday, November 6th at 6pm in the church. These gatherings will give parishioners the opportunity to offer input as we discern how this pastoral plan may shape our parish and neighboring communities. Your voice matters, and I cannot overstate the importance of participating in these meetings.

Friends, our future is bright because we are rooted in hope, guided by faith, and inspired by the Gospel. Thank you for your continued support and dedication to our parish mission. May God bless you and your families abundantly.

In Christ’s peace,

Fr. David C. Santos, Pastor