In November of 2016, the Archdiocese of Newark declared St. Stephen's to be the Sanctuary of the Four Chaplains. On February 5th 2017, the old baptistry was dedicated as the Archdiocesan Sanctuary of the Four Chaplains at the annual Father Washington Mass. The purpose of the sanctuary is to ensure that the story of the four chaplains lives on. Their love and bravery must not be forgotten. Throughout the year, special prayers are offered in the sanctuary for various American holidays to give thanks for those in our military that serve and protect us every day.
The sanctuary is open for prayer during the week for 8:30 AM to 12:30 PM and on the weekends during Mass.