NORTH ARLINGTON, N.J. — Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, led a Memorial Day Mass on Monday at Holy Cross Cemetery to honor U.S. military personnel who died in service to their country. The liturgy was part of a coordinated observance across seven cemeteries operated by the Archdiocese of Newark.
Addressing a crowd that included military veterans and local parishioners, Cardinal Tobin emphasized the importance of remembering those who “paid the ultimate cost… so that we would be free.” He also prayed that younger generations are spared the burden of war, calling attention to the ongoing suffering of families affected by military conflict.
“We do not grieve without hope because for us, hope has a name,” Cardinal Tobin said during his homily. “For us, we receive that hope into our hearts today.”
Memorial Day services were also conducted by Auxiliary Bishop Manuel A. Cruz at Gate of Heaven Cemetery in East Hanover, Bishop Elias R. Lorenzo at St. Gertrude Cemetery in Colonia, and Bishop Michael A. Saporito at Maryrest Cemetery in Mahwah. Retiring Auxiliary Bishop Gregory J. Studerus led the liturgy at Holy Name Cemetery in Jersey City.
Statewide observance across Catholic cemeteries
Father John J. Chadwick, vicar general of the Archdiocese of Newark, presided over the Mass at Christ the King Cemetery in Franklin Lakes. Father Philip J. Waters conducted the ceremony at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in East Orange.
The coordinated observance is part of the Archdiocese’s annual tradition of honoring military sacrifice across its cemetery properties, which serve Catholic communities throughout northern New Jersey.
For further details on services and cemetery information, the Archdiocese directs individuals to visit www.rcancem.org.
Cardinal Tobin’s remarks reflected a solemn moment of gratitude and spiritual unity at Holy Cross Cemetery.
