The first retirees that moved in were Monsignor Aloysius Welsh, former pastor of St. Aloysius Church, the Rev. Robert Gibney, and the Rev. Thomas Henry.

The Kelley residence is the second retirement home for priests established by the Archdiocese of Newark. The home is the legacy of the late Monsignor James F. Kelley, former president of Seaton Hall University (1936-1959) and retired pastor of Our Lady of Mt. Carmel Church in Ridgewood, NJ. Monsignor Kelley, who died in 1997 at the age of 96, always dreamed of creating a retirement home for priests, said the Most Rev. Theodore E. McCarrick, former Archbishop of Newark.

The 12 priests in residence represent over 500 years of priestly service to the church. We thank God for giving this Archdiocese such great priests and we want to take good care of them.

The two story red brick building totals 13,667 square feet of space.
The main floor consists of an office, chapel, dining room and living quarters while the second floor is entirely devoted to living area. Each suite has a sitting room, bedroom, and bath. The lower level of the building includes a TV lounge, recreation room, and individual storage areas. pantry and a laundry facility. All floors are connected by stairs and elevators.

A staff of five assist administrator Joan Stevens in the day to day operations including food preparation, housekeeping and maintenance. The retired priest director and resident, the Rev. George Mader and Joan coordinate for the needs and programs for the residents.

Joan has been intricately involved in the Caldwell and St. Al's community for over 20 years. She feels a little bit like the mother to the 12 apostles.

The parish of St. Aloysius has always reached out to welcome retired priests. Invitations for social occasions like hymn sings and dinners have always been extended.

The St Aloysius and the Caldwell community are pleased to be able to have these men here.

For additional information, contact Joan Stevens