Parish History

The history of St. Michael's Parish in Lyndhurst, formerly known as Kingsland, New Jersey, is the history of men, women and children living and deceased who were and are members of the Community of St. Michael's.

We are a strong and proud group of Americans, many of Polish descent, who are now well into the last quarter of our first century and moving towards our 100th anniversary. Now, we are many peoples of different nationalities and present a rich and varied tapestry of Catholic life. But, amazingly enough, the end product is still the same-- continually "maintaining the place of witness and service, a community of family and friendship."

With the celebration of the parish's 75th Anniversary the major task of renovating the church saw its completion all in accordance with the directions of Vatican II.

Upon the retirement of Rev. Fred Miller in 1995, Rev. Richard S. Czachorowski was installed as the new pastor in December of that year. Since June of 1993 he had served St. Michael's as the permanent administrator coming from Most Sacred Heart, Wallington, New Jersey where he was parochial vicar and administrator.

In a time of many changes, Father Richard, as he is known, faced the problems of the secular world: lower church attendance with the accompanying decrease in financial support, less children attending parochial schools, lack of vocations to the priesthood and religious life and the aging of parish buildings.

But with confidence in the future of St. Michael's, he, with the willing cooperation of the parish, faced the future with glowing optimism.

Because of rising costs and the inability to meet expenses, the school had to close in June 2003. But, soon ANGELS' ACADEMY was born due to the work of a group of dedicated parishioners. Under the leadership of Mrs. Roberta Pocius, children in the Pre-K and K programs not only receive care, but also are helped to learn basics skills. Among other pressing needs was the continuing task of maintenance and repair of our aging parish buildings.

With concern and sensitivity for the Polish roots, customs and traditions, the environment for the liturgy of the Church was 'enhanced by serious planning for the prayerful worship and edification of all involved.

Today, St. Michael's Parish is under the guidance of the pastor, Fr. Stanley Kostrzomb, with the parochial vicar, Fr. Joseph Szklarski, and with Msgr. James McMenemie who, although retired, assists wherever needed.The clergy, with the members of the parish family, stand totally dedicated and committed to the future of St. Michael the Archangel Parish.

For all of the accomplishments and the decisions of the future, may God continue to shower his blessings on the parish family of St. Michael the Archangel with all its clergy, founders, societies, and benefactors.

"STO LAT"