Berhan Tsehai is fundraising
Preserve Bisrate Gebriel Church's Historic Home
Help Bisrate Gebriel Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church Preserve Its Historic Home | Supporting Major repair
Bisrate Gebriel Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church now calls home one of the most beautiful and historic churches in the United States — the former Sacred Heart Church of Vailsburg, in Newark, NJ.
Once the largest parish church in the country when it was dedicated in 1929, this stunning Italian Renaissance landmark has long been a beacon of faith and community. Its soaring ceilings, marble altar rails, and radiant stained glass windows have witnessed nearly a century of prayer, tradition, and service.
When Sacred Heart closed its doors in 2010, the future of this grand building was uncertain. Parts of its surrounding complex were already demolished, and the church itself faced the real risk of being lost forever.
But 10 years ago, a new chapter began. Bisrate Gebriel Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church embraced this space as its new spiritual home. In doing so, they preserved not only the building, but its legacy — filling it once again with ancient liturgies, joyful voices, and a vibrant community.
Over the past decade, the church has steadily grown and continues to serve both its congregation and the wider community.
Over 100 children attend Bible and language classes here each Saturday, learning both their faith and their cultural heritage.
During the COVID-19 pandemic, the church served as a community food court, providing meals and support to neighbors in need.
The church welcomes theology students from nearby Seton Hall University, offering them a space for study and reflection.
Its doors remain open to all, a place of worship and service for Ethiopian Orthodox faithful and friends from throughout the region.
But preserving such a large and historic structure is no small task. While the church continues to grow and serve, maintaining this architectural treasure — heating, repairs, restoration, and essential improvements — requires resources beyond the means of the current congregation alone.
This GoFundMe campaign is being organized to provide much-needed financial support, so that Bisrate Gebriel Ethiopian Orthodox Tewahedo Church can:
Make critical repairs — including much-needed roof restoration — while continuing to offer a welcoming home for worship and cultural preservation.
Provide faith formation and language education for the next generation.
Remain a welcoming place for both the Ethiopian Orthodox community and the broader public.
Preserve a priceless piece of Newark’s architectural and spiritual history for generations to come.
In helping this church, we honor both the deep roots of the Ethiopian Orthodox faith and the rich legacy of Sacred Heart Parish — a place that continues to bring light, hope, and unity to Vailsburg and beyond.
Please consider giving what you can, and sharing this campaign with others. Together, we can help ensure that this sacred space remains alive and welcoming for all.
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