St. Rose of Lima Celebrates Milestone Birthday

The students and parishoners of St. Rose of Lima will celebrate the parochial school's 135^th anniversary on Saturday, April 9.

Founded in 1875, the St. Rose of Lima School and Parish is a Roman Catholic community and has been a staple and historical landmark of Freehold Borough. It is overseen by the Diocese of Trenton consisting of Most Reverend Bishop John M. Smith and Coadjutor Bishop Dave M. O'Connell.

St. Rose is the oldest and first parochial school erected in Monmouth County. In a town with such a rich history but a limited number of surviving landmarks, St. Rose's 135 years of existence are a testament to its stature amongst students and the local Roman Catholic community.

“The St. Rose of Lima School and Parish is one of the few historical sites still intact in Freehold Borough,” said Freehold Borough historian Kevin Coyne.  “While we need to do a better job of preserving our town's history, it is great to see St. Rose has done its part in staying such a big part of the borough.”

April Elimanco, St. Rose's PTA president, believes the school has withstood the test of time for good reason.

“The sisters of St. Francis out of Ashton, PA have continuously been the administrators of the school,” Elimanco said. “I think it's great continuity to have the same nuns and people helping these kids grow into young adults. History has shown St. Rose students going to the best high schools in the area and going on to do great things.

"I think the school's track record certainly speaks for itself when it comes to helping kids learn with faith in their lives. Everyone here is for helping the student body move on to great things.”

Besides its historical significance, St. Rose has educated and positively influenced thousands of students through the years, including long-time Freehold Borough resident Patrick George.

“St. Rose taught me many life lessons while I attended there all eight years,” George, 22, said. “They taught me how to treat others the way you want to be treated and how to live a great life with faith on my side.” His eduction at St. Rose has helped George succeed at Rutgers University, where he will graduate later this year with a bachelor's degree in history.

The school offers numerous services and social events that get the community involved, such as the annual Appreciation Dinner to honor those in the parish community; bingo nights; parish picnics; and the Coffee House for Haiti, which raises money for a sister parish in Fond Pierre.

St. Rose celebrates its 135^th anniversary on Saturday, April 9, beginning at 6 p.m. with music and liturgy at the church on 18 McLean St. Afterward, guests can make their way to the dinner and dance at the Radisson Hotel in Freehold Township. The evening, which will feature music by Mission Dance, begins at 7:30 p.m. and ends at 11:30 p.m.

For more information, please contact srl135@verizon.net or call 908-770-5739. Find out more online about St. Rose of Lima School and Parish at its Web site.