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Charisms & Tradition

Our Legacy: The Xaverian and Marist Brothers at SJR

St. Joseph Regional High School’s rich history and enduring values are deeply rooted in the mission and charisms of the Xaverian Brothers and Marist Brothers. These teaching religious orders have shaped the school’s identity and continue to inspire our commitment to faith, education, and service.

The Xaverian Brothers: Founders of St. Joseph Regional

When Archbishop Boland sought to expand Catholic education in the Archdiocese of Newark, he invited the Xaverian Brothers to lead the newest all-boys high school. St. Joseph Regional opened its doors in 1962, and though the building was unfinished, the Xaverian Brothers had already established the school’s foundation.

A Legacy of Faith and Excellence

  • Mission: Guided by their motto, "In harmony, small things grow," the Xaverian Brothers built SJR on the philosophy of the Vir Fidelis, the Faithful Man.
  • Leadership: For four decades, the Xaverian Brothers served as the school’s administrators and educators. The first five principals were Xaverian Brothers, leaving a lasting impact that continues to shape the school today.
  • Transition: In 1997, the Xaverian Brothers officially withdrew from administrative roles at SJR, though a few remained. Brother Tom Reidy, CFX, the last Xaverian Brother at the school, passed away in 2009.

The Xaverian Brothers Worldwide

  • Founded: By Theodore James Ryken in 1839.
  • Mission: Originally a missionary order named after St. Francis Xavier, the Brothers turned their focus to educating the children of Catholic immigrants in the United States.
  • Impact: The first Xaverian school in the U.S. was founded in 1854 in Louisville, Kentucky. Today, the Brothers sponsor 13 schools in the U.S. and maintain ministries in Belgium, England, Haiti, Kenya, and the Democratic Republic of the Congo.

The Marist Brothers: Continuing the Tradition

The Marist Brothers joined the SJR community in 2000, enriching the school’s mission through roles in guidance and campus ministry. Their presence has connected St. Joseph Regional to the broader Marist world, creating unique opportunities for students.

Retreats and Service Opportunities

Through the Marist Brothers’ Center at Esopus, SJR students benefit from:

  • Spiritual Retreats: Offered throughout the school year.
  • Service Programs: Including summer camp opportunities focused on helping those in need.

A Mission of Love and Education

  • Founded: By St. Marcellin Champagnat in 1817.
  • Mission: Responding to post-revolutionary France’s lack of education for poor children, St. Marcellin entrusted the Brothers to Mary, calling her his "Ordinary Resource." He believed, “To teach children, you must love them and love them equally.”
  • Global Reach: The Marist Brothers currently have ministries in 82 countries and operate 11 schools in the United States.

Milestones at SJR

  • Brother John Dunning, FMS, the last Marist Brother at St. Joseph Regional, retired in 2020, marking the end of an era but leaving a legacy of faith and service.

A Shared Mission

The Xaverian and Marist Brothers have profoundly shaped St. Joseph Regional High School’s identity. Their dedication to faith, education, and the care of every student continues to inspire our community as we strive to live out the ideals of the Faithful Man—to Think, Lead, and Serve.