Karalius, Monsignor Joseph Anthony, 1888-1982
Biographical
Monsignor Karalius was the pastor of St. George Lithuanian Church in Shenandoah for over 40 years, playing a crucial role in strengthening Lithuanian Catholic communities in the U.S. and Europe. He served in various parishes, including Coaldale and Minersville, and contributed significantly to the Lithuanian Seminary in Rome, established parochial schools, and published literature to promote the Lithuanian Catholic faith. He faced a notable power struggle with church trustees over control and ownership, which he ultimately won with support from civil courts and Canon Law. Ironically, this led to the church's later demolition by the diocese he had supported. Karalius renamed several parish cemeteries, causing some confusion. Despite his sometimes abrasive nature, he was respected for actively supporting church organizations and community events, playing a key role in church anniversaries. He was a strong advocate for the church, and having his backing nearly ensured success.
Occupations
Places
-
Pennsylvania (state)
(Translation missing: en.enumerations.place_role.Place of Mission)
- Note: Monsignor Karalius presided over the St. George [Lithuanian] church in Shenandoah for over four decades. He had also worked at parishes in Coaldale, PA and Minersville, PA.