Music at St. Michael's Monastery and Parish, Union City, New Jersey (1967-2005)
by Joseph A. Neglia
Introduction by Fr. Rob Carbonneau, C.P., Editor
About two months ago I asked Joe Neglia write a composition. He was surprised to learn, being a musician, that I wanted a reflective historical essay—not a musical score. He patiently listened as I told him how The Passionist Heritage Newsletter had received an article by Father Xavier Hayes, C.P. on nineteenth century Passionist music ministry. I proceeded to tell Joe that I thought his years as a music director in Union City offered readers an historical link to Father Lawrence Moeslein, C.P. Without hesitation his eyes came alive and he talked about music in Union City faster than a ragtime musician plays the piano.
His article is more than a trip down memory lane. It is a powerful reminder that Passionist music ministry—like any Passionist ministry—creates a culture of experience. In this case the experience of Joe Neglia at St. Michael's Monastery Parish mirrors the life of any church choir. Music directors, pastors and staff, choir members, and parishioners or retreatants in a retreat house all need to share their multiple talents for a music ministry to endure over time. This process is obvious in Joe's essay. We at the Passionist Historical Archives hope that it leads many parish or retreat organizations to write their own reflective historical essays for future preservation.
Presently, Joseph A. Neglia is Director of Music at Sts. Joseph & Michael Church in Union City, New Jersey and Director of Activities and Chair of the Fine and Performing Arts Department at Seton Hall Prep in West Orange, New Jersey —Editor
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