SAINT MICHAEL

St. Michael’s Roman Catholic Church, located in Atlantic City, New Jersey, has been a cornerstone of the local community since its establishment in 1904. Founded by Father John Quaremba, a native of Castelgrande, Italy, the church was created to serve the burgeoning Italian immigrant population in the area. Father Quaremba celebrated the first Mass in September 1904 in a vacated store at Mississippi and Atlantic Avenues, attended by about 30 families.

The permanent church building at 12 North Mississippi Avenue was blessed on December 23, 1912. Shortly thereafter, Father Quaremba opened the parish school with 99 students and four Salesian Sisters as teachers. The church became a central hub for the Italian-American community, known for its Italian Renaissance art, including stained glass windows, marble statuary, and frescoes.

In 1926, Father Quaremba played a pivotal role in developing the original Dante Hall opera house and theater, fostering culture in the Ducktown neighborhood and preserving its rich Italian heritage.

A notable tradition at St. Michael’s is the “Wedding of the Sea,” celebrated on August 15th for the Feast of the Assumption. This ceremony, which involves blessing the sea and tossing a golden ring into the ocean, symbolizes the vital relationship between the ocean and seashore communities. Although the custom faded during World War II, it was later revived and continues to be a significant event for the parish.

Over the years, St. Michael’s has undergone renovations to preserve its historical and artistic significance. In 2015, a presentation highlighted the church’s art and history, emphasizing its status as the “best example of Italian Renaissance Art in Southern New Jersey.”

Today, St. Michael’s remains an active church, continuing its mission to serve the spiritual and cultural needs of the Atlantic City community. Its rich history and traditions stand as a testament to the enduring legacy of the Italian-American community in the region.