SCOTCH PLAINS — St. Bartholomew the Apostle Roman Catholic Church commemorated 75 years of serving Scotch Plains and Fanwood with a Diamond Jubilee Mass celebrated by Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, on November 19.

Approximately 300 parishioners, some of whom have been part of the parish since its founding in 1948, listened attentively as Cardinal Tobin reminded them of their duty to give back to those in need after experiencing 75 years of good fortune.

Following the service, attendees gathered for a joyful reception with special guests from the parish’s history, including past clergy members and 10 sisters who formerly taught at St. Bartholomew Academy. Father John Paladino, who served as St. Bartholomew’s pastor for 18 years, was warmly welcomed by parishioners.

“This was a beautiful experience for the parish,” said Father Andy Prachar, current pastor of St. Bartholomew the Apostle. “Everyone was excited to be part of it. And it’s fitting that this Mass happened close to Thanksgiving because it was a chance for our parishioners to give thanks that St. Bart’s has been around for so long. It’s been a big part of many people’s lives, and we plan on continuing to do good works moving forward.”

The Diamond Jubilee Mass was the culmination of a yearlong series of anniversary events that began in March when Scotch Plains’ mayor and township manager presented a resolution acknowledging the parish’s contributions.Auxiliary Bishop Elias R. Lorenzo also helped honor those who have contributed greatly to the parish community during a special ceremony. Additionally, there was a May Crowning event, and in September, many gathered for a vibrant Italian festival and Mass paying tribute to the church’s origin as a mostly Italian-American parish.

For more information on St. Bartholomew the Apostle Church, visit www.stbartholomewchurch.org.