Parish History

Saint Cornelius Parish was formally founded on June 17, 1963. Of course, we all know that we as a "parish" existed long before that date. It is time to start collecting old pictures, old bulletins, announcements, invitations, capital campaign documents, memories and stories, etc.

We'd love to interview former and current parishioners who "remember when" in order to share these memories with future generations.

Do you remember attending Mass at the Mission Church on 202 (where Ham Sweet Ham was)? Do you remember Father Simon? Do you remember a group called the Cornelians? If you or someone you know answered "yes" to any of these questions the parish history committee would like to talk with you.

Please contact Veronica Egner at 610-299-9794, or pave345@comcast.net. Thanks for all your help!

Then...

...and Now

In 1919, Mass was celebrated in this beautiful stone chapel on Route 202. We were a "Mission Church" of Saint Thomas the Apostle.

In 1966, the "old" church and rectory were built, with plans showing the eventual establishment of a school in the church building and the erection of a new church and convent on the remaining acres.

In 1986, Cardinal Krol commissioned the Pastor to erect a new house of worship with a seating capacity for 800 people.

In 1986, we numbered 762 registered families.

Our new church building, now on Ridge Road just a couple minutes off Route 202, was dedicated on November 24, 1991 by Anthony Cardinal Bevilacqua.

• Today St. Cornelius has about 2000 families.
• We have four ordained Deacons and one studying for ordination.
• Close to 700 children in CCD
• 240 Children in the school
• A Knights of Columbus Council with 100 men from the Parish