'Oratory Way' Is New Address For Place Of Prayer, Service In Red Bank

RED BANK, NJ — A borough ordinance renaming Herbert Street east of Bridge Avenue "Oratory Way" is a fitting reflection of the mission of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri at St. Anthony of Padua Church, the pastor says.

"Oratory" refers to a place of prayer, said Pastor Fr. Alberto Tamayo. The Oratory of St. Philip Neri, a 16th Century-era priest who founded the society, is based on prayer and service to the community, he said.

The parish of St. Anthony of Padua is served by the Oratory with two priests, including Tamayo, and four brothers, three of whom are studying for the priesthood, he said.

They are part of an Oratorian community of about 85 to 90 oratories around the world, with about 600 priests and brothers, he said.

And service to the community is a major part of the mission of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri.

"We are a very active community, and the heart of our active life is prayer," Tamayo said.

For example, there is a food pantry and clothing shop through the St. Crispin Society, housed in a separate house at the church complex, which also offers the community many other services, such as financial assistance and a Giving Tree.

Masses are offered in English and Spanish, as well as offering some Masses in Latin, the church website notes.

Having an address of Oratory Way is a symbol of the prayer and service that takes place at the location.

"We don't move. We're here to stay," Tamayo said of the role the Oratory in Red Bank provides the parish and the greater community.

The website for the Red Bank Oratory explains in detail the history of St. Philip Neri and also explains how integral the work of the Oratory is within the community. It also explains how the Oratory first came to be among priests at the church in 2014.

In addition to programs to help specific needs in the community, there is also a great emphasis on music, Tamayo said.

"Music is very important, and we share sacred music with the community," he said.

A concert is planned for April 21 when the Oratory will present Theodore Dubois' "The Seven Last Words of Christ," a Lenten cantata, and Mozart's "Regina Coeli," with the choirs of St. Anthony of Padua and the Diocesan Festival Choir, with the Orchestra of St. Cecilia under the direction of Shawn Mack. The program will be at 7:30 p.m., Friday, April 21, with a free-will offering.

Prayer, service to the community and music are the pillars of the Oratory.

And there is also joy, as the description of the Oratory explains:

"Saint Philip was known for his great joy. In fact one of his titles is the Patron Saint of Joy. He was known also for his great sense of humor, keen intellect and ability to read people and situations and know just the right thing to say or do to draw someone to the heart of Jesus."