Family Friendly

In recent years, St. Francis Parish has grown with the influx of young families in the neighborhood. The parents who bring their little ones to Mass bring great joy to the parish. Parents are invited to use the Cry Room if needed. Located in the rear of the church next to the steps to the choir loft, the Cry Room has comfortable chairs, a full bathroom, and a closed-circuit television to observe Mass. It is a perfect place to calm a fussy child or change a diaper.

Franciscan Mission

Like its patron saint, St. Francis Parish has a special devotion to poor. Free sandwiches are distributed at the rectory every day and the parish food pantry provides groceries to those in need. A group of parishioner volunteers every month to serve dinner at the Hoboken Shelter. At Christmas, hundreds of gifts are collected for distribution through social service agencies in Hudson County. In addition, some parish events and special collections have helped victims of natural disasters around the globe and here at home.

Register

All who attend Mass regularly at St. Francis are encouraged to register as parishioners. A parish census of registered parishioners is essential in reporting parish growth. 

Adults who are asked to be Godparents for a Baptism or Confirmation sponsors are required to provide documentation that they are practicing Catholics. Registration as a parishioner is an indication of your involvement in the church and may be used for this purpose.

Organizations

St. Francis has a number of organizations that add vibrancy to parish life and contribute to the spiritual development of its parishioners. Among them are these:

The Altar Rosary Society – This women’s group meets monthly for fellowship and spiritual development. In addition to its annual luncheons and bus trips, the Society provides volunteers for many parish activities and supports the parish financially through its many successful fund-raising efforts.

The Holy Name Society – This men’s group meets monthly for fellowship and spiritual development. It holds quarterly Communion Breakfasts in the Parish Center and an annual event at a restaurant or other venue. The Society’s successful “999” raffles provide financial support for the parish.

St. Francis Choir – Parishioners who enjoy singing are encouraged to join the parish choir. Rehearsals are held weekly.  In addition to participating in the weekly liturgy, choir members prepare major programs for Christmas, Easter and other parish celebrations under the direction of Bob Meyers.

St. Francis Helpers – Younger parishioners have formed this group, which organizes events to raise money for various causes ranging from a parishioner’s medical bills to hurricane relief. Some of the Helpers also assist at the monthly “St. Francis Night” at the Hoboken Shelter, where they serve meals to the homeless.

Third Order of St. Francis – This order of lay people follows the spiritual path of St. Francis in prayer and charity. They meet monthly for a time of spiritual discernment. St. Francis founded the organization in 1221.

Volunteer

St. Francis Parish has a need for volunteers of many talents. Volunteer commitments can usually be scheduled at your convenience. At present, we need help with religious education teachers and assistants, ushers, lectors, leaders of song, choir members, and people who can contribute specific skills in the fields of graphic arts, event planning, and building and construction skills. To volunteer, call the rectory at 201-659-1772 or complete and drop off our Volunteer Registration form.

Financial Support

All parishioners are encouraged to make a thoughtful financial commitment to the parish. Weekly envelopes are provided to all who are registered members of the parish. For your convenience, you may also sign up for Pay Pal, which will charge your weekly or monthly donation to your credit card. 

Memorials for family members and friends provide another opportunity to support the parish while honoring the deceased.  Memorials include offerings for Masses, candles, and altar bread and wine. Those enrolled in the St. Francis Memorial Fund is remembered as a group at weekend Masses. The upkeep of the parish’s buildings is partly funded through the Memorial Fund.

Hoboken Catholic Academy

St. Francis Church, along with the four other Catholic churches in Hoboken and St. Lawrence Church in Weehawken, provides financial support for Hoboken Catholic Academy. The Academy, with an enrollment of more than 200 students, provides a Catholic education for students in Pre-Kindergarten through Grade 8. For more information, visit the Academy website.