With the transfer of Reverend Neal Ward, Reverend Peter J. Sweeney became our pastor in 1981.  Father Sweeney was open to hearing what parishioners would like. 

For example, in the early 80s some parishioners requested new stations of the cross.  The current ones were rather bland.  Father Sweeney agreed and began to looking into purchasing new stations.  The prices were extraordinary high for brand new ones and St. Joseph did not have those type of funds. 

Father then heard of a catholic mission of nuns in Silver Spring, MD who were moving and selling items including items in the church proper.  Father Sweeney purchased the stations of the cross which were made in Yugoslavia, the origin is on the backside of each station.  A group of parish men headed by Leo Newman and John Klucik took on the task of carefully securing them to the wall because each station weighs approximately 100 pounds.
  
Father Sweeney was also able to purchase the kneelers used in the Reconciliation Room and we had penance service for the nuns as well.  More to come about Father Sweeney’s time at St. Joseph.