With joy, we welcome Most Reverend Michael A. Saporito, appointed by Pope Leo XIV on September 15, 2026 and installed as the sixth Bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen on October 22, 2026.

Read the official announcement from the Diocese of Metuchen.

Bishop Saporito previously served as Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Newark. We extend our heartfelt congratulations and prayerful best wishes as he begins his episcopal ministry in the Diocese of Metuchen.



Episcopal Installation Celebrations

The Diocese of Metuchen celebrated this historic occasion with Solemn Vespers on October 21, followed by the Installation Mass on October 22, 2026.

Recordings of these celebrations may be available through the following YouTube channels:

Solemn Vespers - Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi

Installation Mass - Church of the Sacred Heart

To receive regular communications on upcoming masses & services, via email and/or text, sign up for FLOCKNOTE. Text JAMESTHELESS to 84576 or visit stjamestheless5.flocknote.com

Sunday, April 26, 2026

The parish community of Saint James the Less Roman Catholic Church gathered in gratitude and celebration as the parish hall was officially dedicated in honor of Father Louis F. Stingel, recognizing his decades of faithful service, leadership, and lasting impact on the life of the parish.

The newly named Fr. Stingel Parish Hall stands as a tribute to a priest whose presence shaped generations of parishioners and whose ministry became deeply woven into the history of Saint James the Less.

Ordained to the priesthood in 1960, Father Stingel became pastor of Saint James the Less in 1977 and faithfully shepherded the parish for more than thirty years. Through times of growth, transition, celebration, and challenge, he remained a steady and compassionate presence for the community. Parishioners remember him not only for his leadership, but also for his warmth, humility, humor, and genuine care for others.

Under his guidance, Saint James the Less continued to flourish spiritually and pastorally, becoming a parish rooted in faith, hospitality, and community life. Whether celebrating the sacraments, offering counsel, visiting the sick, or simply greeting parishioners after Mass, Father Stingel carried out his ministry with kindness and dedication.

The dedication ceremony was led by Parish Administrator Father Juan Carlos Gaviria, who offered prayers of blessing for the newly dedicated hall and for all who gather within it. As part of the celebration, a commemorative plaque and Father Stingel's photograph were formally blessed and installed on the wall of the parish hall, creating a permanent reminder of his years of devoted service to the parish community.

Several parishioners also shared personal reflections and memories of Father Stingel during the gathering. They spoke warmly of his kindness, his approachable nature, and the many ways he touched the lives of parish families throughout the years.

Among the memories shared were stories of Father Stingel's morning walks with his beloved dog and the outdoor First Holy Communion Masses he celebrated at the park — occasions remembered by many parishioners as joyful and memorable moments in the life of the parish community.

Their words offered a heartfelt tribute to a pastor who remained deeply loved and remembered by the people he faithfully served for so many years.

Following the dedication and blessing, parishioners and guests gathered together for a brunch reception in the newly dedicated Fr. Stingel Parish Hall, continuing the spirit of fellowship and community that Father Stingel himself so greatly valued.

Saint James the Less is grateful for the gift of Father Stingel's life and priesthood and remains honored to preserve his memory in this special and meaningful way.