This was one of the first parishes created in the newly-established Diocese of Camden by Bishop Eustace. Prior to its founding on January 21, 1939, the people of the area were served by St. Peter's in Merchantville. The first pastor, Father (later Monsignor) Raymond J. Kavanagh, remained at St. Cecilia's from its founding until 1971. During his pastorate, the convent was erected in 1945, the church dedicated in June 1953, a new rectory completed in 1958, and a new school and auditorium added to the old building in 1959.