Lives of Faith from The Monitor Magazine July 2020 Edition by Diocese of Trenton

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LIVES of FAITH oto ph

he opportunity to live and serve among the Diocese of Trenton’s faithful has been a gift given by God to Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and the clergy who are marking milestone anniversaries this year. Whether it’s during times of joy, sorrow

or uncertainty, these faithful servants have remained steadfast in their desire to bring the Light of Christ to all through Word and deed. The Monitor pays tribute to these men of God and the inspiration they offer us through their Lives of Faith. July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 27

From the Bishop THE MONITOR: HOW DID YOU LEARN YOU WERE APPOINTED BISHOP OF TRENTON, AND HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE YOUR RESPONSE TO THE NEWS? BISHOP: It was May 24, 2010, a very busy day for me in the final months of my 12-year tenure as President of The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. My cellphone rang around 7:30 a.m. but I was in the shower. I saw the Papal Nuncio’s phone number and name on the “missed call” log but I had Mass at 8 a.m. and, so, planned to call him back later. There was no message. Archbishop Pietro Sambi and I talked often so there wasn’t anything unusual about his call. I went to a staff meeting at 9 a.m. and he called again but I couldn’t take the call. No message. Around 10:30 a.m., I got in the car for another meeting, this one across town. The phone rang a third time and I picked up. “Where are you?” Archbishop Sambi asked. When I apologized for missing his calls and filled him in, he said, “Come over here (the Apostolic Nunciature) for lunch.” And so I did. I must confess, I never expected what he was about to tell me. After some typical light-hearted banter in his office, he looked at me and smiled. “The Holy Father would like you to be the Bishop of Trenton ... and he is not asking. Write a letter accepting and now let’s have lunch.” To say I was stunned is an understatement. Many of my predecessors as  I must CUA President were bishops but it was confess, I never not a requirement of the job nor was it something I thought about. After all, I was a member of a religious community. expected what I had planned on taking a sabbatical he was about after CUA and then returning to teach to tell me.  at one of our Vincentian universities or to do whatever my Provincial asked, so I was getting myself ready mentally to move on. I had heard rumors about being appointed a bishop occasionally but they came and went as rumors usually do. I had more important things to think about and paid little attention. So “surprise” is putting it mildly.

For Bishop, it’s been 10 years of

‘loving and serving the Lord Jesus and his people’

n July 30, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will mark the 10th anniversary of his ordination to the episcopacy, less than two months after being named Coadjutor Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton. The Bishop took some time with Rayanne Bennett, Associate Publisher of The Monitor, to look back on the day he first received the news of his appointment from Pope Benedict XVI, and the many highlights that have come in the decade that followed.

THE MONITOR: HOW WOULD YOU COMPARE YOUR EXERIENCES AS UNIVERSITY PRESIDENT, AND NOW, AS DIOCESAN BISHOP, AND WHICH ASSIGNMENT HAVE YOU FOUND MORE CHALLENGING? Newly ordained Coadjutor Bishop David M. O’Connell blesses the congregation in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton, July 30, 2010, at the conclusion of the Mass at which he was ordained to the episcopacy. More than 1,000 people, including 300 priests and bishops, attended from around the country. Craig Pittelli photo

BISHOP: People ask me that all the time. Despite the similarities in some aspects of administration, each position has its unique challenges. My answer is a simple one: it depends on the day! I enjoyed my 12 years as President at CUA and my previous eight years as Academic Dean at St. John’s University in Queens, New York, before that. Those 20 years of executive administration Continued on 6

July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 5

From the Bishop

Bishop reflects on decade as shepherd Continued from 5

taught me a great deal, many things that helped prepare me for leadership of a diocese. At first, I was the “coadjutor bishop” of Trenton, so I had a few months to get to know the Diocese, its staff and clergy, its parishes and programs and faithful before assuming full responsibility. Of course knowledge of the position deepened and intensified after that. Honestly, I didn’t feel it was a huge adjustment and I felt prepared for the major responsibilities: administering a large organization, implementing a substantial budget, working with diverse personnel, evaluating activities with a specific focus, raising funds and so on. These were part of my responsibilities as a university president as well. The difference, however, was the spiritual motivation and faith-centered goal of serving the Diocese as bishop and shepherd, a “different hat” to wear – no pun intended. Academics gave way to evangelization as the primary mission and focus of my attention. THE MONITOR: WHY DID YOU CHOOSE AS YOUR EPISCOPAL MOTTO “TO SERVE AND NOT TO BE SERVED”? BISHOP: That’s an easy one. When I was

ordained a priest in 1982, the selection from St. Mark’s Gospel read at Mass contained that phrase. It became a personal aspiration and motivation for me, something to strive for in ministry, reflective of the attitude of St. Vincent de Paul, the founder of my religious community. They are Christ’s own words, describing the mission of the Son of Man (Mark 10:45). I kept a holy card in my breviary containing that phrase over the years and, when Archbishop Sambi asked me what motto, I would choose as bishop, I did not hesitate in my response. I am very mindful of our Lord’s words and I hope I will always try to embrace them as my motivation, although perhaps imperfectly. The rest of the phrase, not quoted in my motto is also very much in my mind: “to serve and not to be served ... and to give his life as a ransom for the many.“ THE MONITOR: AS YOU LOOK BACK OVER

THE PAST 10 YEARS OF EPISCOPAL MINISTRY IN THE DIOCESE OF TRENTON, WHAT MEMORIES STAND OUT? BISHOP: Well, there are many memories for

sure, some good and some difficult. Some good ones first, OK?

The solemn episcopal ordination ceremony in our beautiful St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral in Trenton on July 30, 2010 is certainly a memory I will always cherish. My mother was present, which I consider the Lord’s special gift to me, along with the presence of my brothers and family, so many friends, Vincentian confreres and members of the Diocese. Diocesan staff worked very hard to make it a great day and they succeeded. The Eucharistic Congress of 2012 at the PNC Arts Center in Holmdel, the first ever in New Jersey, was an amazing celebration of our faith in Christ’s Eucharistic presence as the foundation of all we are and do in the Diocese. I will never forget it. Although the memories of the devastation wrought by Hurricane Sandy in New Jersey and elsewhere still linger in our minds, the rapid response of the clergy and faithful of the Diocese of Trenton, and their care and concern for one another at a time of crisis, were nothing short of inspiring. The outpouring of support for us from dioceses all over the country demonstrated to me the unity of compassion that characterizes what it means to be the Catholic Church. It was a landmark moment! Personally, I always find visitations to parishes for Confirmations, parish anniversaries, special events and programs uplifting and memorable. To be able to celebrate Mass and the Sacraments, to pray with and for the clergy, religious and faithful of the Diocese — just the visits to the parishes are always joyful experiences that remain in my memory. It’s all about loving and serving the Lord Jesus and his people.

THE MONITOR: HOW WOULD YOU DESCRIBE

THE STRENGTHS OF THIS DIOCESAN COMMUNITY AND THE PROGRESS THAT HAS BEEN MADE DURING YOUR EPISCOPACY? BISHOP: A great source of pride for the Diocese

are the many, many Catholic organizations and charitable societies that can be found serving the people of the four counties without counting the cost: Catholic Charities, Knights of Columbus, Mount Carmel Guild, Mercer CYO, Holy Innocents Society, St. Vincent de Paul Society, Knights and Ladies Auxiliary of St. John International, Legion of Mary, Cursillo, Catholic Women of Zion, Pro-life movements, Project Rachel, St. Francis Retreat Center — I am sure I am missing some and I apologize — but coming to know their leaders, their boards and members over

6 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

these past 10 years, I have been amazed by their unselfish witness to Christ’s love here in the Diocese of Trenton. They bring the Gospel to life daily, each through their own unique mission. We have been able to recruit and ordain some wonderful seminarians and priests in the Diocese over the past decade, and I am excited at vocation programs being put in place to continue the trend. We all have to pray for and support these efforts. We need more good, holy priests to join those already serving our faithful. I would be remiss if I didn’t mention the incredible generosity of so many people throughout the Diocese. Support for the Annual Catholic Appeal and the recent Faith to Move Mountains endowment campaign, as well as so many second collections has enabled the Diocese to build upon its past and create a stable home and future for the evangelization of and service to the local Church and its parishes. The works and ministries of the Diocese simply could not continue without the generosity of the faithful. THE MONITOR: WHAT HAVE SOME OF THE

MOST SIGNIFICANT CHALLENGES BEEN, AND HOW HAVE THEY IMPACTED YOU PERSONALLY? BISHOP: On the downside, I have found the

closure of some Catholic schools in the Diocese of Trenton a painful experience, given my life’s work in Catholic education. Our Catholic schools provide such a demonstrably outstanding service to families and the broader community, but low enrollments and escalating costs have crippled our ability to keep some of our Catholic schools open. This weighs so heavily on my heart as it does for many families. The sexual abuse of minors by some clergy in the Diocese of Trenton has been one of the most disturbing and painful experiences of my entire life. In saying that, I must acknowledge that my own sense of pain does not even come close to what many innocent children and their families have experienced and shared with me. I hope that, as Bishop, I have been able to offer support to victims through our diocesan efforts to reach out to them and by establishing effective measures that will prevent such abuse from ever happening again anywhere in the Diocese. I pray for the victims of sexual abuse every single day. I would be less than honest if I didn’t say that I am very concerned about the continuing decline in weekend Mass attendance when only 17 percent of our registered faithful report attending Mass Continued on 31

Lives of Faith October 12-14, 2012 As an answer to the call of Pope Benedict XVI to celebrate the Year of Faith “in fullness and with renewed conviction, with confidence and hope,” Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., led the Diocese’s first Eucharistic Congress at the PNC Bank Arts Center in Holmdel, an event that drew an estimated 20,000 men, women, teens and children who took part in Masses, Eucharistic Adoration, concerts, dramatic and cultural performances, spiritual talks and more. Jeff Bruno photo

February 19, 2017 Symbolism and ritual were witnessed by the diocesan community when they gathered for a Mass to commemorate the elevation of St. Robert Bellarmine Church, Freehold, to a co-cathedral. Bishop O’Connell was joined by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States, far right, and a new framed coat of arms was presented to Msgr. Sam Sirianni, Co-Cathedral rector, left. Looking on is Msgr. Thomas N. Gervasio, diocesan vicar general. Craig Pittelli photo

September 23, 2015 Bishop O’Connell applauds as Pope Francis makes his way down the aisle of St. Matthew the Apostle Cathedral, Washington, during the Pope’s historic visit to the United States. Associated Press photo 28 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

November 2012

Bisho

Anniver

YEARS

Bishop O’Connell and Msgr. Philip Lowery inspect the ripped roof of St. James School, Red Bank, following Superstorm Sandy. The Bishop’s outreach stretched wide after the storm, which caused millions of dollars of damage to church properties across the Diocese. Father Ariel Robles photo

“

n our belief, like Mary, we hand ourselves over to God again, and again and again. We hand ourselves over to Christ remembering that nothing is impossible with God. In him and only in him, the impossible is possible; the inconceivable is conceived, and in him we say we are all servants of the Lord.” Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., spoke these words during the first Mass he celebrated as Bishop of Trenton on Dec. 8, 2010, in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton. And as he marks the dual 10th anniversaries of his episcopal ordination and as Bishop of Trenton this year, these words have been a continual guidepost as he set forth to carry out his many responsibilities of serving as the Diocese’s chief shepherd. The Monitor MagaNovember 4, 2015 zine presents this photographic Following Mass in the Basilica of the National Shrine retrospective featuring some of of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, Bishop the many highlights from Bishop O’Connell blesses pilgrims who had traveled there O’Connell’s tenure over the past from the Diocese of Trenton. Diocesan pilgrimag10 years. es to the shrine have taken place every few years during his tenure as Bishop of Trenton. Ken Falls photo

October 4, 2016 The annual Catholic Schools Mass was an opportunity for the Bishop to gather in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton, with more than 800 students, teachers and staff from Catholic schools in the Diocese. Craig Pittelli photo

July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 29

Lives of Faith

November 12, 2012 As part of the Year of Faith and coinciding with the Feast of the Miraculous Medal, Bishop O’Connell celebrated a Solemn Pontifical High Mass for the first time in the Diocese in 40 years, which was broadcasted by EWTN. In November 2011, the Bishop made Mass in the Extraordinary Form more available to the faithful, in response to Pope Benedict XVI’s 2007 call. Craig Pittelli photo

Anniver

YEARS

June 3, 2017 Ordaining men to the priesthood is a great joy for Bishop O’Connell, who, in this photo, receives the Promise of Obedience from Father Michael Kennedy. Craig Pittelli photo

30 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

Following the annual diocesan Las Antorchas Guadalupanas celebration in Trenton, seen here, Bishop O’Connell and faithful took prayer petitions with them on pilgrimage to the Our Lady of Guadalupe shrine in Mexico. John Batkowski photo

Bisho

December 2-7, 2018

I think, maybe, my response is more than you Q&A with Bishop butbargained for when you asked the question!Â

Continued from 6â&#x20AC;&#x201A;

regularly. I realize that other U.S. dioceses are witnessing a similar downturn, but other areas of the country are happily trending in the other direction. I hear many reasons from the faithful for this decline â&#x20AC;&#x201C; some of which, frankly, are excuses rather than real reasons â&#x20AC;&#x201C; but all of us in the Diocese need to confront this worrisome trend and try to turn it around. There is more to this issue than I can address adequately here but, believe me, itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s on my mind day and night. Â On a more personal level, the loss of my left leg due to a bone infection several years ago has changed so much of the way I do things. It has been challenging, at times, but I think I have adapted pretty well. Â It hasnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t affected my ability to get around. Â Another bishop similarly challenged once shared with me some words of encouragement given him by Pope John Paul II. Â He apologized to the Holy Father for his prosthetic leg and a noticeable limp to which the Pope responded, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Your Excellency, you donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t lead the Diocese with your leg.â&#x20AC;? Â There are many other things that come to mind

THE MONITOR: YOU MENTIONED EARLIER BUILDING A â&#x20AC;&#x153;STABLE HOME AND FUTURE.â&#x20AC;?Â WHAT DO YOU ENVISION FOR THE FUTURE OF THE CHURCH IN OUR DIOCESE?Â BISHOP: As Catholics, we are people of hope.

Hope characterizes our Catholic outlook on life. Itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s in our â&#x20AC;&#x153;Catholic DNA.â&#x20AC;? Hope looks to the future. For the Catholic, all hope is rooted in the Lord Jesus Christ and his promise to be with us â&#x20AC;&#x153;all days, even to the end of time (Matthew 28:20).â&#x20AC;? Â That is something I never doubt. Â In these last few months the COVID-19 pandemic, the resulting economic and financial hardships as well as the civil unrest and racial tensions that have taken hold of our nation have deepened both the worries and divisions that already seem to plague us in American society. We can DO better. We can BE better. We must. If ever there was a time for hope, it is now. Hope builds upon faith and faith leads to prayer and prayer leads to holiness. That is where the future begins. Â The future of the Church in our Diocese depends

upon our willingness â&#x20AC;&#x201C; all of us, clergy, religious, faithful â&#x20AC;&#x201C; to take our faith seriously in our Diocese and to be convinced that Christ and his Church can and do make a difference. We need to be believers who are pray-ers and pray-ers who are doers. Â Being a Catholic is hard work. The Eucharist must be the center of our lives and not for just 17 percent of us. Â The Word of God and the teachings of the Church must be a way of life for us and not just a series of â&#x20AC;&#x153;doâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s and dontâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;sâ&#x20AC;? as options on some cafeteria menu. We need to respect and affirm life in all its stages and not surrender to convenience, exceptions and excuses. Â We need to reach out to all people with respect and love and compassion and mercy and generosity as sisters and brothers, as children of one God and Father of us all. Â We need to embrace our identity as both the personal and communal call of the Lord Jesus. Â That is my vision for the future Church in our Diocese: to be full of faith, to be confident in hope, to be generous in love, mindful of Christâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s words in Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Gospel: â&#x20AC;&#x153;I have told you these things so that in me you may have peace. Â In the world you will have troubles but take heart I have overcome the world (John 16:33).â&#x20AC;? Â

~ Numbers 6:24-25 â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ God Bless You, Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, thanks you for 10 years of dedicated service and commitment to the people of Trenton. Your ministry in Christ has been a living testimony of the Gospel and the Vincentian mission as you have led this Diocese through challenging times. May God bless you as you continue to live your motto- Ministrare non Ministrari. Ad Multos Annos! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Anniver

â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Lord bless you, and keep you. The Lord make His face shine on you, and be gracious to you.â&#x20AC;?

n behalf of the parishes of the Diocese, The Monitor extends heartfelt congratulations to Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, C.M., our Chief Shepherd and Publisher, on the 10th anniversary of his episcopal ordination.

Bisho

Prayers and warm wishes to Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell

YEARS Everyone here at St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, Toms River, are proud and happy to congratulate Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell on the 10th anniversary of his episcopacy. We feel very blessed to have you as our Bishop! Keep on truckinâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ MANY BLESSINGS AND CONGRATULATIONS TO MOST REVEREND DAVID M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;CONNELL, C.M., ON HIS 10th ANNIVERSARY TO THE EPISCOPACY From Rev. Eugene J. Roberts, Pastor and Staff at St. Gabrielâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Catholic Church, Marlboro

Your Excellency, Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, On behalf of our pastoral staff and parishioners of Incarnation-St. James, Ewing, we wish to congratulate you on your 10th Anniversary of your Ordination to the Episcopacy. As you continue to shepherd the Church of the Diocese of Trenton, may our prayers and support bring your strength, courage and good health. â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Warmest Congratulations to our Good Shepherd, Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, C.M., on his 10th Episcopal Anniversary. Ad Multos Annos! Clergy and Parish of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Church, Whiting â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Many blessings and good wishes to Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell on his 10th Anniversary. May you enjoy good health and happiness for many more years to come. Love and Prayers, Fr. J.C. Garrett, the Parishioners and Staff of Resurrection Parish, Delran Continued on 32

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Congratulations and best wishes to Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell Continued from 31

â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Burlington, extends prayerful congratulations to our shepherd, Bishop David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, as he celebrates 10 years serving God and His people as bishop. â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Visitation Parish, Brick, congratulates Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell on his 10th Anniversary and prays that God will continue to bless his ministry. Ad Multos Annos! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ With Great Affection and Gratitude Holy Family Parish, Union Beach/Hazlet, Congratulates Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell on the 10th Anniversary of Ordination to the Episcopacy. The Lord bless you and keep you; The Lord make His face to shine upon you and be gracious to you; The Lord lift up His countenance upon you and give you peace. â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

The Parish Community of St. Catherine of Siena, Farmingdale, extends best wishes and congratulations on the 10th year anniversary of ordination to the Episcopacy. With immense gratitude for your pastoral care, and dedicated service to the faithful of the Diocese of Trenton. May Jesus the High Priest, bless your every effort in the days to come and keep you in His loving care. Rev. Angelito I. Anarcon, Pastor â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Dear Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, Congratulations on your 10-year anniversary as Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton. The people of St. Clement thank you for your dedication to the Catholic Church and for your leadership and guidance. May the Holy Spirit guide you, and may Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessings be with you as you continue to share the Gospel of Jesus Christ. Fr. Thomas Vala, Pastor, St. Clementâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish in Matawan â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Thank you for your 10 years of Servant leadership for our Diocese. May the Lord continue to bless you and keep you. Ad multos annos! Rev. Daniel E. Kirk, Pastor of St. Charles Borromeo in Cinnaminson â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Congratulations Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell on your 10th Anniversary to the Episcopacy. From the parishioners of Our Lady Queen of Peace Church, Hainesport â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Dear Bishop David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, with much love, the Parish of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Lakewood is here to congratulate your 10 year anniversary. May God continue to bless you. Thank you for your leadership. Querido Obispo David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, con mucho cariĂąo la Parroquia de Nuestra SeĂąora de Guadalupe en Lakewood viene felicitarte por su aniversario de 10 aĂąos. Que Dios lo siga bendiciendo y muchas Gracias por su liderazgo. â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell: St. Maryâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish family of Barnegat-Manahawkin joyfully congratulates you on your 10th anniversary as our Bishop. With all our love and prayers. God bless! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Choicest Blessings, Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, on Your 10th Anniversary as Bishop of Trenton St. Mary of the Lakes Catholic Church and School, Medford Rev. Daniel F. Swift, Pastor Rev. Roy A. Ballacillo, Parochial Vicar Deacon Ken Motylinski Staff and Parishioners â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Congratulations and blessings Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell on the occasion of your 10th Anniversary of Ordination to the Episcopacy! May God bless you. With prayers from the Parish Community of St. Joseph Church, Millstone Township â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Congratulations on your 10th anniversary of Episcopal Ordination, Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell. Ad Multos Annos! Your flock at St. Mary Parish in Colts Neck â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Congratulations Bishop on your Anniversary weâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;re so glad you are our shepherd. Ad Multos Annos, St. Marthaâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Point Pleasant

On behalf of the congregation of St. Catherine Laboure Church, Middletown, we would like to extend our warmest congratulations as you celebrate 10 years of dedicated service to the Diocese of Trenton. We pray fervently for you during this joyous time, that Almighty God would continue to bless all your endeavors and crown you with healthy spiritual enrichment.

â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ The Parish Communities of Saint Isaac Jogues, Marlton, and Saint John Neumann, Mount Laurel, wish to congratulate Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, C.M., on 10 years as the Head Shepherd of the Diocese of Trenton. We Pray and will continue to Pray for him and his Spiritual guidance as we navigate these interesting times. Very Rev. Phillip C. Pfleger, E.V.

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On behalf of the Cathedral of Saint Mary the Assumption and Saint Joseph Parish,Trenton, we extend our sincere best wishes and congratulations to Bishop David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell on the occasion of his 10th Anniversary as Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton. Thank you for your faithful service to God and the people of the Diocese of Trenton. â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ On the occasion of your 10th Anniversary of Ordination to the Episcopacy, the people of Epiphany Church, Brick, pray that God continues to bless you with the grace of the Holy Spirit. May He bless you with peace and joy in your ministry. Ad multos annos! Church of Epiphany, Brick Fr. Mike Santangelo, Pastor â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

With thanksgiving to Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s providence for sending us Bishop David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell to guide the Church of Central New Jersey. You have been a faithful shepherd, leading us in the way of Christ. May God bless you for many years to come, and may the prayers of St Vincent and St Catherine Laboure accompany you in your ministry. From St Catherine Laboure Parish, Middletown. â&#x20AC;˘ Very Rev. Daniel Hesko â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ DEO GRATIAS! The Church of Saint Rose, Saint Rose High School and Grammar School, Belmar, extends our prayerful and loving wishes and congratulations to you, Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, C.M., on your 10th Anniversary of Ordination as Bishop and Shepherd to the clergy and faithful of the Diocese of Trenton! Thank you for your leadership, dedication and pastoral zeal, and may Jesus, the Good Shepherd, continue to grant you good health and many more joyful years of ministry. AD MULTOS ANNOS! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Congratulations Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell on your 10th Anniversary of your Episcopal Ordination. You are a great gift from God to the Diocese of Trenton. Ministrare non Ministrari. May the Lord continue to bless you abundantly in the years to come. Priests, Deacons, Parishioners of St. Mary, Mother of God Church, Middletown â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Thank you, Bishop David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, for the most excellent ministry you endow to the Diocese of Trenton. You are a source of inspiration to us. May the Holy Spirit always bless you with good health and wisdom as you shepherd your flock. Congratulations on your 10th year Anniversary! St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Hightstown â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Prayerful congratulations, Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, C.M., JCD, DD, on your 10th anniversary. We are very grateful for your faithful ministry to Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s people in the Diocese of Trenton. Remembering you in our prayers, Fr. Dennis Apoldite, Fr. Edward Kwoka, Fr. Thomas Kunnath, Fr. Charles Muorah, Staff and Parishioners of Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton. â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Anniver ry

Bisho

With heartfelt gratitude for his steady guidance, unfailing faith, and noble friendship, the parish of St. Benedict in Holmdel extends to our beloved Bishop, David Michael Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, C.M., our prayers, best wishes, and highest regards on the 10th anniversary of his ordination as Bishop. Ad Multos Annos!

YEARS

Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, Congratulations on the 10th Anniversary of your service to the Church of Trenton. May God continue to bless you. Rev. Eugene Vavrick and the Parish of Saint Anselm in Tinton Falls â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, as you celebrate 10 years as Bishop, the priests, staff and parishioners of St. Joan of Arc, Marlton, offer you their prayerful best wishes and congratulations! God bless you! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Dear Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, Congratulations and best wishes to you on your 10th Anniversary. We have been blessed with the â&#x20AC;&#x153;Shepherdâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Careâ&#x20AC;? that you have given to us, especially during this difficult time. May God bless you and keep you in His care. The People of Sacred Heart Parish, Mount Holly We at the Church of St. Catharine, Holmdel, are grateful for your 10 years of service as Shepherd of the Diocese of Trenton. Thank you for your willingness to give of yourself fully and be used where God has placed you. May God continue to bless you and our great Diocese.

La comunidad parroquial, junto a su nuevo pĂĄrroco Padre Carlos Aguirre, felicita a nuestro Obispo en su aniversario. Muchas gracias por su dedicaciĂłn y trabajo. Deseamos que Dios y nuestra Madre, la Virgen MarĂa, lo sigan iluminando en su misiĂłn. ÂĄMuchas felicidades! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

Congratulations on the occasion of your 10th Anniversary as Shepherd of the Diocese of Trenton. May God bless you and keep you, Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell. Rev. John T. Folchetti, Pastor and the Parish Family of Saint Leo the Great, Lincroft

Dear Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, Congratulations on the 10-year Anniversary of your ordination to the Episcopacy. Thank you for your leadership over the years. Our continued prayers are with you. God Bless, The Parish Family of Our Lady of Good Counsel, Moorestown

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Congratulations and Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Blessings on your 10th Anniversary, Bishop! The Parish and Schools of St. Joseph, Toms River, salute you and pray for you always! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ The Parish Family of St. William the Abbot, Howell, wishes to congratulate Bishop David on his 10th Anniversary at the Diocese of Trenton. We are grateful for your spiritual inspiration over these past 10 years and especially for your guidance during the last few months with the pandemic. â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

The priests, deacons, staff and parishioners of St. Thomas More Parish, Manalapan, join in celebrating your 10th anniversary as Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton. We appreciate your dedication to ensure the needs of the faithful are met. May the love of God continue to guide you. Ad Multos Annos! â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

With praise and thanksgiving to Almighty God, we the clergy, administration, staff and volunteers of the Parish of St. Dominic, Brick, offer our prayers and support to Bishop David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell! Your leadership and prayerful example is truly a remarkable inspiration! Vivat Rex!

Congratulations and prayerful best wishes, Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, on your 10th Anniversary as Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton from St. Markâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Parish, Sea Girt. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ad Multos Annosâ&#x20AC;?

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Congratulations and best wishes to the Most Rev. Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, C.M., as you celebrate the 10th anniversary of ordination to the episcopacy From Rev. Jacek W. Labinski, S.T.D., Pastor and the St. Hedwigâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s parish family, Trenton. God bless and best wishes!! AD MULTOS ANNOS! â&#x20AC;˘ STO LAT!

Congratulations and Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessings to Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, C.M., 10th Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton, on your 10th anniversary of Ordination to the Episcopacy. Thank you for being our Bishop! With prayers and best wishes from the Priests, Staff, and Parishioners of St. Michaelâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Church, Long Branch

From Our Lady of the Angels Parish, Trenton, The parish community together with its new pastor, Fr. Carlos Aguirre, congratulates our Bishop on his anniversary. Thank you so much for your dedication and your work. We pray that God and our Mother, the Virgin Mary, continue to illuminate you in your mission. Many congratulations!

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We extend our prayers and best wishes to our Shepherd, Bishop David Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell. May Our Lord continue to bless you. Father Mark Kreder and the people of St. Justin the Martyr Parish, Toms River â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘

The Church of the Nativity rejoices with the people of the Diocese of Trenton in honoring and celebrating Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell,Â C.M., on this anniversary of his episcopal leadership. May Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s blessing continue to come upon him, as we are blessed to call him our Bishop! Father Jim Grogan and the People of Nativity Parish, Fair Haven â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ Congratulations, Bishop Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell, on your 10th anniversary! We are grateful to God for the gift of your episcopal ministry. Thank you for shepherding our Diocese so well. Know of the Catholic Community of Princetonâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s prayers as you continue to follow Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s call. St. Paul Parish, Princeton â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ With our greatest appreciation and in recognition of your dedication, faithfulness and compassion while shepherding Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s flock, Father John Testa and the Parish Community of Corpus Christi Church in Willingboro wish you a Holy and Happy Anniversary. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Ad Multos Annos!â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;˘đ&#x;&#x2022;&#x2021;â&#x20AC;˘ The Parish of St. Theresa, Little Egg Harbor, Rejoices with Bishop David M. Oâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;Connell On the 10th anniversary as Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton May God bless you today and always as you continue a life of service to the people of God in your special calling as Bishop. All our Prayers and Best Wishes.

July 2020â&#x20AC;&#x192; ď&#x201A;Ąâ&#x20AC;&#x192; THE MONITOR MAGAZINEâ&#x20AC;&#x192;â&#x20AC;&#x192;â&#x20AC;&#x192;33

Lives of Faith

For the People Father Amora’s legacy: living what he preaches BY CHRISTINA LESLIE  Correspondent

s Father Silvano “Ben” Amora prepares to retire after 43 years of active priestly ministry serving in the Philippines and in the Trenton Diocese, he happily reflects on what he considers to be one of his greatest accomplishments – “the ability to share my faith with others through teaching and preaching and my effort not to talk from the tip of the tongue, but from my heart.” “What I say is really what I believe, founded by reason, not high-sounding words. I go to the basics,” said Father Amora, parochial vicar of St. Dorothea Parish, Eatontown, explaining that he tries to live what he Father Silvano Amora believes and brings that to his relationships with parishioners, fellow priests and parish staff. “Our faith has a social dimension,” he said. “When people understand the

doctrines of Jesus Christ and the basic teachings of the Catholic Church, it creates love and commitment because … to know [him] is to love and to love is to commit oneself.” LEADING TO PRIESTHOOD Born in 1950 in Lawigan, Labason, in the province of Zamboanga del Norte, Philippines, Father Amora attended a school in Lawigan for primary grades 1-4 (1956-1960); Labason Central Elementary School for elementary grades 5-6 (19601962), and Ferrer High School, during which he lived in the parish rectory as a working student until his March 1966

34 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

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graduation. After high school, Father Amora became a municipal temporary worker cutting lawns and maintaining the local road in the township; worked in a plywood factory; was part of a crew on a fishing boat, and became a gardener and rice farmer. Deciding to become a priest, he moved back to the rectory in late 1967 as a sacristan, sexton, cook and housekeeper. He recalled assisting a missionary who visited the parish annually, accompanying him on visits to village chapels. Father Amora’s province officially became a diocese (Diocese of Dipolog – the capital city of Zamboanga del Norte) in October 1967, an occasion that coincided with his aspiration to become a priest. In June 1968, the young Silvano attended Immaculate Heart of Mary Seminary, Tagbilaran City, Bohol, Philippines, where he studied philosophy. He then attended the Seminario Mayor de San Carlos, Cebu City, for theology, from 1973 to 1977. He was ordained a priest March 25, 1977, in St. Vincent Ferrer Parish, Labason, by Bishop Felix S. Zafra, D.D.

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Father Silvano “Ben” Amora says that during COVID-19, and always, it’s important to remember that “God is still in control.”

2020

“Be available to people; listen and talk to them.” He noted that he was the first man to be ordained a priest from his parish, adding proudly that in the past 43 years, the number has climbed to 37 men “and still counting.” EXAMPLES OF FAITH After holding a number of positions in the Diocese of Dipolog, including pastor of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish (1978-1983), and St. Francis Xavier Parish (1983-1987), he took a leave of absence, then returned to ministry in California. He arrived to the Diocese of Trenton through the facility of a priest friend, and served in Visitation Parish, Brick, from 1987 to 1996. He was then named adjunct Continued on 37

Lives of Faith

With Grace and Gratitude Father José Fernández-Bangueses looks forward to active retirement after 50 years of priesthood BY LOIS ROGERS  Correspondent

ather José Fernández-Bangueses reflects on his 50 years of priestly ministry as being an experience too fulfilling to simply ease out of parish life and into retirement.

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“It’s been unforgettable,” he said of his seminary days, 31 years of ministry in his native Spain and nearly 20 years in New Jersey parishes. That’s why Father Fernández-Bangueses plans to remain in active ministry in Sea Girt’s St. Mark Parish, where he has served as parochial vicar for six years. Retire “I thank God t s from the moment I went into the seminary to now,” he said. “I YEARS am going to re-

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Editor’s Note: Father José FernándezBangueses is also a golden jubilarian.

main here this coming year if my health is good and be a resident priest and do what I was doing.” HOPE AMID SORROW The only child of Jesus and Nicasa Fernández-Bangueses, the young José was born in 1945 in Arnoia, Ourense, Spain. He prepared for the priesthood in the diocesan seminary of Ourense and a year later in the University of Santiago de Compostela, where he earned degrees in both English and Spanish. “I entered the seminary at the age of 12,” he recalled. “We used to do things very early in those days.” Ordained Sept. 7, 1970, by Bishop Miguel A. Araujo Iglesias, he served in Spain as a parochial vicar, administrator and

Father José Fernández-Bangueses says his 50 years in ministry, including at St. Mark Parish, Sea Girt, have been unforgettable. Courtesy photo

pastor in several parishes. He also served as a teacher and director of the migration apostoFather José late and vocations Fernández-Bangueses in his diocese and taught in the diocesan seminary.

“Coming here called my attention to how much people appreciated a priest.” After three decades as a priest there, Father Fernández-Bangueses began his ministry in the United States in the Archdiocese of Newark on Sept. 10, 2001. Attracted by the vibrancy of faith that was so apparent on visits and teaching experiences in the United States, Father Fernández-Bangueses said he was anticipating a dynamic experience of faith. He remembers arriving that day with a sense of optimism and a lot of hope that “a wonderful experience” was about to begin. He settled in at St. John Parish, Orange, where he would serve as parochial vicar, never dreaming what the next day would bring. On the morning of Sept. 11, he described finding his new pastor, Msgr. Ricardo González, absorbed by a commotion on the television. He quickly realized something was terribly wrong. “I saw the towers smoking,” he said. Then, he and the pastor saw them fall, claiming the lives of thousands and

Continued on 37

July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 35

Lives of Faith

A New Day Father Lukaszewski approaches retirement with trust in the Lord BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

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n the weeks leading up to July 1, the day he would retire as pastor of St. Barnabas Parish, Retire Bayville, Father t s Stanley P. Lukaszewski spent some time thinking about all he’s experienced in his 41 years of priesthood. One of many highlights was tallying the number of Sacraments he celebrated since his May 19, 1979, ordination day – 8,218. “I can see how God opened many doors for me so then I could open doors and help lead others to him,” he said, as he gave the breakdown of celebrating 1,650 Baptisms, 4,090 First Holy Communions, 707 marriages and journeying with some 1,771 women and men preparing to “open

2020

a new door called Resurrection and eternal life.” “I’ve been blessed,” he said. “All along I have had good mentors and good parishes where I loved and did my best to care for the people. What adds to the joy of my priesthood are the many friends I have made over the years, whether they are priests … or parishioners. To have good friendships that span many years is a remarkable gift that God has given to me.” A PRIEST IN THE MAKING Father Lukaszewski was born in 1950 in Trenton to Frank and Josephine Lukaszewski. Raised in a devout Catholic household, his family, which also includes his brother, John, worshiped in the city’s Holy Cross Parish (now part of Sacred Heart), where his priestly vocation was inspired. He recalled the priestly example set by Msgr. Thaddeus Wojciehowski, the longtime pastor, and other priests who served the parish during the years he was

a student in Holy Cross School and through his being an altar server. Any thoughts of the priesthood Father Lukaszewski may have had did not surface to the fore until well after Father Stanley P. he graduated from Lukaszewski Trenton Central High School. He was working as a supermarket manager when, to his surprise, he was asked by a customer if he had ever considered becoming a priest. When Father Lukaszewski did not respond with a definite no, the customer suggested he speak with his son, who was Msgr. James McManimon, a longtime priest of the Diocese.

“To have good friendships that span many years is a remarkable gift.” “And before I knew it, I found myself in St. Mary Seminary” in St. Mary, Ky., he said. His formation also included studies in Immaculate Conception Seminary, Darlington. VARIED RESPONSIBILITIES The years following his ordination by Bishop George W. Ahr led Father Lukaszewski to serve parish assignments in all four counties of the Diocese including two as parochial vicar in St. Mary Parish, Middletown, and St. Veronica Parish, Howell, and three as pastor in Corpus Christi Parish, Willingboro, 1994-1999; St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, 1999-2012, and St. Barnabas Parish, Bayville, from 2012 until his retirement. Each of the assignments, he said, provided great learning experiences, whether it was the administrative duties of running Continued on 37

Father Stanley Lukaszewski lights a candle with the help of an altar server at the 2018 Easter Vigil Mass in St. Barnabas Church, Bayville. John Blaine photo

36 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

Lives of Faith

‘God is still in control,’ Father Amora says Continued from 34

priest to St. Theresa Parish, Little Egg Harbor. His 1996-2002 tenure there included six months as a temporary administrator. Father Amora’s next assignment was an adjunct priest in St. Justin the Martyr Parish, Toms River, and then parochial vicar following his incardination into the Diocese in 2003. Five years later, he was appointed parochial vicar

of St. Ann Parish, Keansburg, and transferred to St. Dorothea Parish in 2012. In recent months, Father Amora said he has spent time during the coronavirus pandemic in prayerful reflection and visiting the Blessed Sacrament. He remains ever-faithful that “God is still in control,” noting that life before the pandemic was so busy that “many times, we couldn’t have quality time for reflection and see

our inner selves.” In retirement, Father Amora looks forward to returning to the Philippines and living near family. Offering some advice to prospective priests based on his own years of service, he said, “Be available to people; listen and talk to them. Let them know you care. … Give them the best example of faith.”

Father Fernández-Bangueses grateful for faithful friendships altering the lives of millions forever. The anthrax scare soon followed, adding to the fear and the upset of the times. “I was terrified and very sad. At least I had people around me. But I could never forget it,” he said. His spirit was uplifted by the genuine concern of his new community. “Coming here called my attention to how much people appreciated a priest,” he said. “In Europe, things are different. Here, they value the faith. That’s why I came, and I never [regretted] it.” POSITIVE STEP

harmonious blend of communities, which he considers a true American-Spanish experience. He said the festive, drive-by celebration for which the community united June 8 to celebrate his retirement and golden jubilee as well as the 45th anniversary of Msgr. Sean P. Flynn’s priestly ordination reflected that sense of togetherness admirably. Msgr. Flynn is pastor of St. Mark Parish. “To live as a priest on this landscape has been unique,” Father Fernández-Bangueses said. “I felt appreciated and loved.”

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Father Fernández-Bangueses went on to serve in St. Joseph of Palisades Parish, West New York. It was during that time that he visited Asbury Park and met

Bishop John M. Smith, who, impressed with his language skills, encouraged Fernández-Bangueses to consider coming to the Trenton Diocese, where the Hispanic population was growing. “I was very happy. You don’t forget a really wonderful experience,” he said of the invitation. Arriving in the Trenton Diocese in 2006, Father Fernández-Bangueses was incardinated in 2008. Assigned as a parochial vicar in Our Lady of Angels Parish, Trenton, he served there until June 2010. He then was assigned as parochial vicar of St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Red Bank, where he served before arriving to St. Mark in 2014. He is grateful for all the parishes in which he has served and is happy to be transitioning to retirement life as a resident priest in St. Mark Parish with its

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2020

Father Lukaszewski: Awareness of new doors is key Continued from 36

a parish or the more spiritual in nature. Father Lukaszewski also served in numerous diocesan positions, including as associate moderator and later moderator of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women; assistant director of the Priests’ Personnel Office for several terms; the Diocesan Building Commission; dean of Coastal Monmouth County, and the Educational Advisory Council Finance and Planning Committee. He appreciated his

appointment as episcopal vicar of Ocean County, and especially enjoyed having the opportunity to travel to parishes around the Diocese to celebrate the Sacrament of Confirmation for young people. “I enjoyed being able to share messages about concrete things that were important to them,” he said. “I enjoyed meeting them at their level. The Confirmations will be something that I miss when I retire.” As he settles into retirement in Villa Vianney, the diocesan retirement facil-

ity for priests in Lawrenceville, Father Lukaszewski looks forward to assisting in parishes with Masses and other sacramental celebrations. He is also grateful to have more time to spend with his family, which includes his brother and sister-in-law, his nephew and wife and grandniece. “God wants to open doors for all of us, and if we trust in his love for us, we’ll know what to do,” he said. “We’ll know how to open the doors of life to let him in and lead us.” July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 37

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Lives of Faith

YEARS

‘My Heart Desires to Serve’ Msgr. Peter Kochery’s long priestly ministry continues to flourish in retirement BY LOIS ROGERS  Correspondent

or Msgr. Peter Kochery, the seeds of his priestly vocation were planted at an early age – during Mass with his bishop as a young teenager in India.

“My vocation was very straightforward,” recalled Msgr. Kochery, who is celebrating his 50th priestly ordination this year. The priest, who retired last year as a parochial vicar from St. Thomas More Parish, Manalapan, continues to serve there as senior priest.

“There is still faith … I think we need to help revitalize it.” He shared that his family of six lived a religious life, dedicated to the belief that Christianity was brought to India by the Apostle Thomas. The four children – Peter, Abraham, Babby and Elizabeth – accompanied their parents, Thomas and Mary, to church every Sunday. They prayed as a family twice a day, morning and evening, he said. “We grew up in a tiny church. … It was

a small mission station, and priests used to visit every now and then. I was the only Catholic in a non-Catholic school,” he said. In 1957, the bishop of Msgr. Kochery’s diMsgr. Peter Kochery ocese came to visit a neighboring church, and young Peter was chosen to be an altar server. Afterward, he was told the bishop wanted to see him. “I had been playing and running around [with friends] and I got worried, but when I went to see the bishop, he was smiling.” “I liked your reading. Do you want to become a priest?” Msgr. Kochery remembers the bishop asking. The young Peter responded “Yes,” and the bishop, referencing the political climate of the time, said,

38 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

Msgr. Kochery, who retired last year as a parochial vicar from St. Thomas More Parish, continues to serve the Manalapan community. Mike Ehrmann photo

“The communists are going to beat and persecute priests. Are you afraid?” “I said, ‘No,’” Msgr. Kochery recalled, and the bishop said, “Please come and see me after you finish high school.” “I knew and the family knew that I was going to be a priest,” he said. “I have never regretted that for one single moment. I believe it was God’s call.” JOURNEY OF MINISTRY Msgr. Kochery was born in 1943 in Thammanimattam, India. He completed his preparation for the priesthood in the Pontifical Athenaeum, Pune, India, where he received a licentiate in philosophy and theology. He was ordained in 1970 in Tiruvalla, India, by Bishop Zacharias Mar Athanasios. After 13 years as pastor serving in three different parishes, he was sent to pursue doctoral studies in theology at the Toronto School of Theology, Continued on 40

Lives of Faith

A Fulfilling Life Gratitude the operative feeling for Father Zec’s half-century vocation BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

ather John J. Zec happily admits that the people he has met during his ministry are among the best memories of his 50year priesthood.

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“I learned from the people what Church is all about,” he said. “I never thought 50 would come so quickly!” Father Zec was born n i n ve in Perth Amboy, the A r first child to John t and Mary Zec. He prepared for the priesthood in St. Charles YEARS College Seminary, Catonsville, Md., and St. Mary Seminary and University, Baltimore. “I have always been grateful for the excellent education and “[I’m grateful to all [there] who have been so good to me,” Father John Zec says of his time teaching at Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft. Courtesy photo

preparation received from the Sulpician Fathers at St. Mary Seminary and University,” he affirmed. He was ordained to the priesthood May 30, 1970, in Holy Spirit Church, Perth Amboy, by Bishop John C. Reiss, who, at the time was auxiliary bishop of Trenton. Along his journey, he admits there were many positive personal moments accompanied by challenging ones. “Life was difficult at times,” he said, noting that his paternal grandmother died right before he entered the seminary; his maternal grandmother died soon after his priestly ordination and his mother died just before he celebrated his 25th anni-

versary as a priest. “But I was grateful for all the opportunities.” MINISTRY HIGHLIGHTS Following his ordination, Father Zec served as parochial vicar in Father John J. Zec St. James Parish, Red Bank; St. Mary Parish, Deal (now part of Our Lady of Hope Parish, West Long Branch); St. Ambrose Parish, Old Bridge; Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune; Nativity Parish, Fair Haven; Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, West Trenton, and St. Benedict Parish, Holmdel. He also served as spiritual moderator of the Holy

“God has blessed me always with wonderful opportunities and insights into faith.” Innocents Society in Monmouth County. Further studies included The Juilliard School of Music at Lincoln Center, New York City; John XXIII Center at Fordham, where he received a master of arts degree in Eastern Christian Studies, and The Catholic University of America, Washington, where he received master of music and doctoral degrees in music and liturgical studies. “When I was in Washington for studies, I was greatly rewarded spiritually as chaplain for a small order of nuns, who taught me how to make the most out of very little,” Father Zec recalled. “They sewed vestments, and they would make afghans of the leftover fabric and give them to the poor to warm them in winter.” Continued on 40

July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 39

Lives of Faith

Msgr. Peter Kochery hopeful for faith renewal after COVID headquarters. He recalled that there came a time when he had the option to return to India or remain in either Canada or the United States to teach or continue in pastoral ministry. “I liked everything here,” he said. “So I decided to continue here in parish work.” PRIESTLY JOURNEY

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Incardinated into the Trenton Diocese in 2007, Msgr. Kochery was assigned as parochial vicar of St. Thomas More Parish in 2008. In 2012, he was named a chaplain to His Holiness with the title of monsignor by Pope Benedict XVI. Now, as a senior priest in St. Thomas More Parish, his enthusiasm for his vocation and pastoral ministry remains strong. “The title has changed, but as long as

God gives me health and enthusiasm, my heart desires to serve. I thank God that I am able to do so,” Msgr. Kochery said. He added that he feels humbled to be where he is in this time of COVID-19, serving a community with strong commitment to the Catholic faith. “It is a hopeful place of Catholic faith,” Msgr. Kochery said, confident that when COVID-19 cases subside, there will be a great opportunity for rebirth and renewal in the Church. At that time, Msgr. Kochery said his focus will be on re-evangelization. “There is still faith, and according to my experience, I think we need to help revitalize it,” he said.

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Toronto, Canada. Upon his return to India in 1993, Msgr. Kochery, who also completed a three-month residential course in pastoral counseling in Vellore Christian Counseling Center in India, was appointed rector of the diocesan junior seminary and director of priestly formation in the Archdiocese of Tiruvalla. Msgr. Kochery was sent to the United States in 1997 as coordinator/president of Malankara Catholic Missions of North America to minister to the growing number of Indian Catholics. He was temporarily assigned as pastor of St. Mary Malankara in the Diocese of Dallas. His first assignment in the Trenton Diocese in 1999 was as parochial vicar in St. Veronica Parish, Howell, where the mission had a

Continued from 38

YEARS

Father Zec finds 50-year priesthood fulfilling Continued from 39

Highlights of Father Zec’s ministry included teaching, music ministry and directing the choir, especially in Red Bank Catholic High School, as well as directing bands and orchestras. He taught from 1977 to 1980 and then from 2015 to the present in Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft, instructing students in theology, introduction to philosophy and Latin. He remains at CBA as chaplain as well as a teacher, offering morning Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. In his retirement years, Father Zec especially appreciates teaching at CBA. “I’m grateful to all [there] who have been so good to me … as well as the beloved students whom I treasure … and who have made these past five years so rewarding.” TEACHING & LEARNING In addition to CBA and RBC, Father Zec has had the opportunity to serve in a number of academic settings as a campus

minister and/or teacher in St. Rose High School, Belmar; Georgetown Preparatory, Rockville, Md.; Perth Amboy Catholic High School [grades K to 8], and Mount St. Mary’s College and Seminary, Emmitsburg. He was also assistant chaplain and an adjunct faculty member in the music department in Georgian Court University, Lakewood. In January 2015, Father Zec retired from Georgian Court University. He currently serves in several parishes locally and in the Metuchen Diocese; he also maintains his faculties to serve in the Eparchy of Passaic, in both Ruthenian Catholic Churches of St. Michael and St. Nicholas and others – for which he is thankful. “[It] has complemented my background in Western Latin Spirituality with Eastern Christian Spirituality,” he said. In addition to parochial duties, he continues his interest in music, as organist and composer, and musical studies in Eastern

40 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

Christian and Byzantine music. He marked his 50th anniversary of ordination quietly, given the COVID-19 restrictions, with a video he submitted to the Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Perth Amboy. “When restrictions are lifted, maybe we’ll get together,” he noted, “but as a priest, I always thought of it as being a servant – and as a servant, you get a pat on the back, but I don’t need a big celebration.” While life as a priest has not always been easy, Father Zec said it has always been greatly fulfilling. “Whether in parishes, schools or academic studies, God has blessed me always with wonderful opportunities and insights into faith, ministry, Church and life,” he observed. He likened his ministry to that of Moses: “It’s like going before the burning bush – you take off your shoes, and God will show you something more.”

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Extends Best Wishes and Congratulations to Bishop O’Connell on his 10th anniversary as Bishop of Trenton. And All Priests and Deacons Celebrating Their Anniversary This Year!

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Father Michael A. Santangelo

God’s Blessings on your Silver Jubilee of your Ordination! May you continue to be sustained by His grace, and may your life in God’s service always be filled with joy.

Rev. Michael Manning, Fr.Rev. Daniel Cahill 45 years Michael Manning, 20 years Rev. Michael Manning, and retirement years 20 years Deacons20 Paul Lang Congratulations to 45 years Msgr. Michael Walsh Sean Patrick Murphy, Deacons Paul Lang Deacons Paul Lang all and the priests and deacons 5 years Fr. Dennis Apoldite  40 years and Sean Patrick Murphy, and Sean Patrick Murphy, who are celebrating their and 55 years years Fr. Gene Vavrick 25 years th th 25Fr. or 50 anniversary special best wishes to and and David Swantek 10 years Rev. Matthew J.congratulate Pfleger, and weFr. would like to special best special best5wishes wishes to Garry years to 5Koch years

Bishop David M. O’Connell Rev. Matthew J.J. Pfleger, Rev. Matthew Pfleger,

And all prieststh and deacons celebrating 5 years 5 years onanniversary his 10 anniversary their this year. as the Bishop of the Trenton Diocese. from the Pfleger Family

Congratulations on your 25th Anniversary as a Priest.

Church of Epiphany Parish, Brick

115 Tindall Road, Middletown, NJ 07748 • 732-671-1326 ♿ www.pflegerfuneralhome.com • info@pflegerfuneralhome.com July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 41

Lives of Faith

Realizing God’s Plan With sights set on business, Father Santangelo instead follows faith

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42 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

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Seton Hall University, South Orange. After time as a Carmelite, he changed his focus to the diocesan priesthood and was ordained by Bishop YEARS John C. Reiss on Sept. 9, 1995, BY CHRISTINA LESLIE  Correspondent in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton. t’s easy when you look back on your life, and all the steps are After completing his first assignment in place, to see God’s plan,” Father Michael A. Santangelo as parochial vicar in St. Joan of Arc Parish, said as he reflected on his 25 years of priestly ministry. “It is a Marlton, Father Santangelo served as parochial vicar in St. Paul Parish, Princeton, graced moment.” before his 2003 assignment as adminisFather Santangelo, who serves as pas“If you want to be a trator, and later, pastor of St. Paul Parish, tor of Epiphany Parish, Brick, and as CathBurlington. Shortly after he arrived in real radical, olic Scouting chaplain for the Diocese of Trenton, has enjoyed many of those graced do what God wants Burlington, he underwent cancer surgery on his tongue. The priest credits his moments throughout his life, beginning you to do.” youthful training with his time as a third-grade chorister in in the choir as better diction. “I sang all the way through his Bayshore community parish. [St. Mary] high school [in South Amboy.]” helping to restore Born in 1967 in Montclair, young his diction after the Father Santangelo admitted he had Michael grew up as a member of Keanssurgery. He also big plans upon his 1990 graduation from burg’s St. Ann Parish with a bit of a vocal served as chaplain Rutgers University with a bachelor’s dedisadvantage. to the Serra Club gree in economics focused on finance and “I had a thick New York accent. accounting. “I thought I would be running International of Everyone in Keansburg did back then,” he the Big 8 [national accounting firms], but I Burlington County. said, explaining that rather than going to In 2008, Father became more involved with campus minisspeech therapy, one of the religious sisters Santangelo became try my last two years of school. recommended he join the choir to learn Father Michael A. parochial vicar in “I was heading toSantangelo St. Mary of the ward accounting and knew who I was going Lake Parish, Lakewood, before moving to St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, Medford. to be,” he continued. His tenure at Epiphany Parish began “I had to let go and realize God’s plan was March 1, 2013. In Epiphany Parish, Father Santangelo better, though it was said there is a strong emphasis on evandifficult.” gelization, noting the parish livestreams FAMILY OF FAITH Mass each week and had finished a novena for the Holy Spirit just before Pentecost Father Santangethis year. Meetings and retreats with core lo prepared for the volunteers and the parish in general have priesthood in Washbeen put on hold due to the coronavirus, ington Theological but plans exist to resume in the fall. “We Union, Silver Spring, Md., and Immaculate need to fan the embers, renew the spark,” Conception Seminary, he said. Epiphany’s pastor expressed gratitude about how the family of faith have been Father Michael Santanreaching out to those in need during the gelo awards a Boy Scout pandemic. earlier this year during “We have volunteers to call everyone the annual Court of Honon our rolls to check on them, alert them or in Epiphany Church, Continued on 45 Brick. Rich Hundley photo

Lives of Faith

A Priest at Heart Father Sumanga reflects on service, fraternity, teachable moments

Father Oscar Sumanga distributes communion during in-car Mass at St. Anthony of Padua Church, Hightstown. Courtesy photo

BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

sk Father Oscar B. Sumanga to pinpoint highlights of his 25 years as a priest, and he responds with one – everything.

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“I love being a priest,” said Father “I love to teach and Sumanga, explaining that it has been the serve the faithful. lived experiences – whether joyful or That is what gives challenging – that have shaped his priestly ministry. me joy.” The 51-year-old pastor of St. Anthoin the Philippines, ranging from a station ny of Padua Parish, Hightstown, says his manager for Radio Veritas, a philosophy vocation began as a child growing up in professor in Mater Salutis College Semihis native Philippines. As a third-grade altar server, he was inspired by the positive nary, as spiritual director of White Cross Orphanage and parochial vicar of the examples set by the priests in his home National Shrine Our Lady of Guadalupe parish. Having the support of family – his Parish, Makati. parents, a brother and three sisters – and Managing a commercial radio an unwavering desire to beAnniver station that was owned by the come a priest, he said, helped t Catholic Church gave Father him realize he was ready to Sumanga a greater appreciabegin formation at the age of tion for the communications 12 in a minor seminary. field, he said. That experience led to his YEARS He learned how radio was a studying at the Central Semikey evangelization tool, he said, nary of the Pontifical Univerexplaining how attending Mass sity of Santo Tomas, Manila, where in the Philippines is sometimes different he earned degrees in philosophy, theology than in the United States. and canon law. Because of the distance between EVANGELIZATION TOOLS villages and the limited availability of priests, there are times when the faithFather Sumanga was 26 when he was ful go months without attending Mass. ordained a priest June 3, 1995, by Bishop Transportation also can be challenging for José C. Sorra for the Diocese of Legazpi. priests – some walk miles or row a boat He went on to serve various ministries

to remote areas to celebrate Mass. In these cases, radio programs can help bring faith to people, he said. Keeping up with technology over the years has proved helpful in Father Oscar B. his assignments, inSumanga cluding livestream Masses during the COVID-19 lockdown. “Communications is a very powerful tool,” he said. RIGHT PLACE, RIGHT TIME Father Sumanga’s 2002 arrival to the Diocese of Trenton came by way of what was supposed to be a monthlong visit to see relatives in Mount Holly. It was right before Easter when the Diocese gave him permission to assist with celebrating Holy Week liturgies in St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton. Though Holy Week came to an end, the need for Father Sumanga’s assistance did not. Eventually, he discussed with diocesan officials and the diocesan Priest Personnel Office his desire to serve as a priest in the Diocese. “I extended my vacation from a month to now 18 years later,” he said. His assignments in the Diocese have included serving as an adjunct priest in Continued on 45

July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 43

Lives of Faith

An Unfinished Project Father Valle continues to grow in his ‘forever priesthood’

“After 25 years since my ordination, I do not consider myself finished or having reached perfection. I am a priest who is in the process of formation and conversion,” said Father Valle, parochial vicar in St. Paul Parish, Princeton. Father Valle will mark his 25th anniversary of priestly ordination Aug. 19 – a journey that began many years ago in Colombia. SOCIALLY CONSCIOUS Born in 1962 in El Aguila Valle, Father Valle spent his childhood in the countryside, learning land cultivation from his father, Miguel Angel Valle. His mother, Alicia Echeverry, taught him “the most exquisite country-style peasant cuisine,” he recalled. Father Miguel D. Valle One of 10 sons, Father Valle remembered learning from a young age to adapt to needs of the moment. “Coming from a poor family, I often had to share clothes with my brothers regardless of color, size or if we liked it or not. … I learned that sharing is better than receiving.” As disagreements arose over his future – his father wanted him to become a farmer while his mother wanted him to get an education – Father Valle’s parents divorced He went on to receive an education in the village, completing high school there. Afterward, he began studies in social sciences in Risaralda, Pereira, where he was exposed to Marxism, socialism and street protests. Coming to realize the hypocrisy of these ideological groups was disconcerting for Father

44 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

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ather Miguel D. Valle views his priesthood as one in which he is constantly looking ahead.

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Valle. He recalls, “This caused me to turn away from them and spend a year thinking about how I can steer the ship of my life in another direction. YEARS “One day while I was meditating at church, I began to think to myself and said, ‘Miguel, if you want to serve the community and your people from the social sciences, why don’t you do it by preaching the Gospel? Will I become a Catholic priest? Impossible,’ I replied in the silence. At that moment, I realized it was God [speaking].” Father Valle said that he felt God’s love in his heart that super“[God] takes seded any prior plans. “He surus from our prisingly wrapped me in his arms and held me with tenderness, and place of said to me vigorously, ‘You will be comfort.” a priest forever.’”

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BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

TRUSTING IN GOD He began studying for the priesthood in Immaculate Conception Seminary, Bogota, Colombia. Father Valle was ordained Aug. 19, 1995, in Bogota, by Bishop Jorge Jiménez Carval. His assignments in Colombia included time as a teacher of dogmatic theology in Bogota, and as a teacher of Scripture in Catholic University, Pasto, Colombia. “I believe God always gets his way, just as he did with Paul, the Apostle,” Father Valle reflected. “He takes us from our place of comfort, and launches us into the experience of transforming tenderness, so that we can announce with the Gospel with joy.” Arriving in the United States in 2002, he served as parochial vicar in St. Joseph Parish, Toms River. He later served as an adjunct priest in St. Continued on 45

Father Miguel Valle celebrates Mass while on pilgrimage with parishioners in St. Teresa of Ávila Church, Spain. Courtesy photo

Lives of Faith

Community key part of Father Santangelo’s legacy

CHARACTER-BUILDING

discernment foster what is necessary for the priesthood: a surrender to God. “It is his journey to take,” Father Santangelo said of any man considering the priesthood. “God calls those he will make worthy and capable. We must surrender.” He added, “If you want to be a real radical, do what God wants you to do.”

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Himself an Eagle Scout, Father Santangelo has served since 1996 as diocesan Scouting chaplain, hosting a number of events each year for Scouts including the

annual Boy and Girl Scouting Awards Mass and Ceremony. Because of coronavirus conditions, Father Santangelo’s annual June trip to the Boy Scouts’ High Adventure Camp at the Philmont Scout Ranch in New Mexico has been canceled this year, but he is looking forward to attending next year. The excursion to the Sangre de Cristo Mountains, the southernmost subrange of the Rocky Mountains, tests Scouts’ outdoor endurance, fosters leadership skills and builds character. Similar to how the camp can cultivate strong qualities in Scouts, so does a call to

to the livestreaming and our in-person Communion procedure,” Father Santangelo said. “Our Helping Hands Food Pantry was running low on supplies, so we put out an appeal on Facebook, and the response was overwhelming. The number of people they are helping has more than doubled.”

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Continued from 42

YEARS

Service brings Father Sumanga joy Continued from 43

St. Anthony Parish and Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, both Hamilton, both of which were merged into Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish. He has served as a judge in the diocesan Tribunal since 2004 and was incardinated as a priest of the Diocese in 2008. Father Sumanga says he is grateful for the fraternity he has developed with Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and other priests of the Diocese, including Msgr. Thomas N. Gervasio, pastor of Our

Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish and diocesan vicar general, whom he regards as a mentor. He says he learned much from Msgr. Gervasio about what it means to be a parish priest. That fraternity was also deeply appreciated during the four years Father Sumanga calls “the lowest point of my life.” It was during this time that he became ill and took a leave of absence. “They stood by me though,” he said with gratitude of Bishop O’Connell and his brother priests.

In the year he has been pastor of St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Father Sumanga said he finds himself feeling very much at home – a lot of which has to do with his parishioners. He enjoys serving the culturally diverse community of some 2,500 families who are Anglo as well as from the Latin American countries, the Philippines, India, Pakistan and Africa. “So you can see there are many highlights of my priesthood,” Father Sumanga said. “I love to teach and serve the faithful. That is what gives me joy.”

Father Valle ministers with ‘determined spirit’ Continued from 44

Anthony of Padua Parish, Hightstown, and was incardinated into the Diocese of Trenton Dec. 5, 2006. In 2007, he was again assigned as parochial vicar in St. Joseph Parish before being named parochial vicar in St. Ann Parish, Browns Mills. Father Valle was later assigned as parochial vicar in St. Mary of the Lake Parish, Lakewood, then returned to Hightstown to serve in Hispanic ministry before his current assignment in St. Paul.

“I had the opportunity to develop my priesthood ministry with a big heart and determined spirit,” he said. Father Valle said his most rewarding experience in priesthood was working as a teacher of dogmatic theology in Colombia. “I felt responsibility, but at the same time I was filled with joy, because I taught, guided and accompanied the seminarians for an entire eight years,” he explained.

His second love of ministry has been working in parishes throughout the Diocese. “I have met different communities and [helped] them understand that Jesus is not only present in the Bible, in the sacramental life or in Sunday Masses – but Jesus is present in the great book of their personal and community life,” he said. “It is my second-greatest reward as a priest to help people be connected to the earth and their own history.”

July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 45

Lives of Faith

Priests of Diocese marking

special anniversaries The Diocese of Trenton is blessed to have a contingent of men who have committed to a priestly vocation. Following is a listing of those marking notable anniversaries to the priesthood in 2020.  Father Charles J. Flood, O.SS.T. (parochial vicar, Incarnation-St. James Parish, Ewing)

70 YEARS  Msgr. Frederick A. Valentino (Retired)

65 YEARS

Pries t

 Msgr. James H. Dubell (Retired)  Msgr. Eugene M. Rebeck (Retired)

Milestone YEARS

45 YEARS  Msgr. Sean P. Flynn (pastor, St. Mark Parish, Sea Girt)  Father Eugene J. Roberts (pastor, St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro)  Father Thomas J. Triggs (Retired)

40 YEARS  Msgr. Thomas J. Mullelly (episcopal vicar for clergy and consecrated life and diocesan director of seminarians)

35 YEARS  Father Alex Enriquez (administrator, St. Monica Parish, Jackson)

ies

55 YEARS

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 Father William J. Bausch (Retired)

 Msgr. Joseph N. Rosie (pastor, St. James Parish, Red Bank)

20 YEARS  Father Paul Janvier (parochial vicar, Mother of Mercy Parish, Asbury Park)  Father John O. Chang (parochial vicar, St. Veronica Parish, Howell)

15 YEARS  Father Mark W. Crane (pastor, St. Thomas More Parish, Manalapan)

10 YEARS  Father Michael Hall (pastor, St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, and diocesan director of the Office of Worship)  Father Marcin D. Kania (parochial vicar, St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square)  Father Roberto Padilla (parochial vicar, St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral and St. Joseph Parish, both Trenton)

5 YEARS

 Father Thomas Kunnath (parochial vicar, Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton)

 Father James Grogan (pastor, Nativity Parish, Fair Haven)

30 YEARS

 Father John Large (pastor, St. Theresa Parish, Little Egg Harbor)

 Father Peter James Alindogan (pastor, St. Veronica Parish, Howell, and diocesan director of missions)

 Father Jason M. Parzynski (chaplain, Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville, and diocesan director of vocations)

 Father Sheldon C. Amasa (parochial vicar, St. Dominic Parish, Brick)

 Father Jarlath Quinn (pastor, Our Lady of Perpetual Help-St. Agnes Parish, Atlantic Highlands)

46 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

Congratulations and God’s Blessings!

The Staff and Parishioners of

St. Mark’s Church in Sea Girt

Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M. 10th Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton

would like to extend our Congratulations

on your 10th Anniversary of Ordination to the Episcopacy!

Monsignor Sean P. Flynn

and blessings to our Pastor, on his 45th Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood also to

Thank you for being our Bishop! The Priests, Staff, and Parishioners of St. Michael’s Church, Long Branch

Trinitarian Father, Charles J. Flood O.SS.T. as you celebrate your

30th Anniversary of Ordination to the Priesthood on September 08, 2020.

God Bless! From Fr. Thomas Morris O.SS.T., Pastor, Priest, Deacons, Staff and Parishioners of

OIJIJIJIQ

Congratulations to

Incarnation~St. James EWING

Congratulations to all

priests and deacons celebrating a milestone anniversary and congratulations to Bishop David O’Connell on his 10th anniversary as Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton.

Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ in me. - St. Patrick

Reverend Jose Fernandez-Bangueses on his retirement.

Que el Señor los continúe bendiciéndoles abundantemente y manteniéndoles en su tierno cuidado.

The parish family of

St. Katharine Drexel

acknowledges our four Deacons for their many years of service: Deacon Al Pennise (21 years), Deacon Alex Punchello (15 years), Deacon Matthew Fung (13 years), and the newest “kid” on the block,

Deacon Walter Karpecik who has just celebrated his

10 year serving God and our parish. th

ST. KATHARINE DREXEL PARISH • BURLINGTON

July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 47

Lives of Faith

Special anniversaries observed by Diocese’s deacons

Ever since the permanent diaconate was established in the Diocese of Trenton in 1977, Catholic men have continuously responded to the call to ordained ministry through the reception of the Sacrament of Holy Orders. Today, there are more than 300 permanent deacons serving in most of the Diocese’s 98 parishes, fulfilling sacramental responsibilities such as proclaiming the Gospel, preaching the homily, presiding over Baptisms, and officiating at weddings, wakes and committals. Following is the list of permanent deacons who are marking 10, 25 and 40 years of service.

40 YEARS

10 YEARS

 Albert Paccitti (Retired, St. Maximilian Kolbe, Toms River)

Milestone YEARS

 James Walsh, Holy Innocents, Neptune

25 YEARS  Damian Ayers, St. Dominic, Brick  Michael Boehm, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Maple Shade  John Clymore, St. Benedict, Holmdel  Salvatore Vicari, Jr., Visitation, Brick

CONGRATULATIONS

Deacon Damian Ayers

in celebration of your 25 year anniversary to the Diaconate

Parish Community of Saint Dominic, Brick 48 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  July 2020

 Patrick Brannigan, St. James, Pennington, St. George, Titusville, St.

r ie s

 James McGrath (Retired, St. Mary of the Lake, Lakewood)

 Peter (Ilsoo)Barng, St. Dorothea, Eatontown

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 Richard Johnston (Retired, Visitation, Brick)

Deaco

 John Allen (Retired, St. George, Titusville, St. James, Pennington, St. Alphonsus, Hopewell)

Alphonsus, Hopewell

 Bryan Davis, St. James, Red Bank  Robert Gay, St. Barnabas, Bayville

 Walter Karpecik, Jr., St. Katharine Drexel, Burlington

 Robert (Mike) McKenna, St. Rose of Lima, Freehold  Richard Morris, St. Benedict, Holmdel  Rodolfo Santos, St. Rose of Lima, Freehold  Andrew Smith, St. Robert Bellarmine CoCathedral, Freehold  Nichola (Nick) Stranieri, Visitation, Brick

Blessings Deacon Rich Morris Morris God bless you for on your for your your devoted ten years years of of Tenth service as Deacon, Deacon, for the many many ways ways Anniversary! and you serve our parish. parish. Rev. Rev. Garry Garry Koch, Koch, Pastor Pastor Rev. John.Michael Rev. John.Michael Patilla, Patilla, Parochial Parochial Vicar, Vicar, Deacons, Deacons, Staff, Staff, Faculty, Faculty, and and Parishioners Parishioners of of

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Gratitude makes sense of our past, brings peace for today, and creates vision for tomorrow. Heartfelt congratulations to the Priests, Deacons, and all the faithful of the Diocese of Trenton who are celebrating retirement and milestone anniversaries of devotion in 2020. We congratulate you on your everlasting devotion and service and may God’s grace continue to bless you all!

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July 2020  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 49