Monitor Mag Feb 2025 by Diocese of Trenton

Beginning With Faith

Catholic Schools Week 2025 unfolded Jan. 26 in school communities across the Diocese of Trenton with Masses that involved students of all ages in many different roles. A range of special events and activities ushered in fun, faith and service before the week came to an end Feb. 1. Special coverage begins on page 9.

ALSO . . .

FROM THE BISHOP: Reflections on Marriage; Lenten guidelines and inspiration

DYC: Nearly 900 young people embrace the Journey

PLUS . . . ‘Fan the Flame of Hope’ is theme of 2025 Annual Catholic Appeal

The official publication of the Diocese of Trenton

Because of Magazine, we all members

Consider becoming one of our affordable $15 for one

• Pastoral Life & Mission

Campus Ministry, Catechesis, Evangelization & Family Life, Grief & Bereavement, Jail & Prison Ministry, Marriage Ministry, Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, Youth & Young Adult Ministry

• Clergy & Consecrated Life

Diaconate Formation, Priestly Formation, Retired Clergy, Villa (St. Denis Convent), Villa Vianney, Vocations

• Catholic Education Curriculum Guidance & Standards, Professional Development, Marketing Support & Consultation

• Catholic Social Services

Catholic Charities Trenton, Holy Innocents Society, Mount Carmel Guild, Parish Counseling Services, Seeds of Service

• Communications Diocesan website, Multimedia Production, Social Media, The Monitor Magazine

Caring & Serving

Through the corporal works of mercy we extend Christ’s love to those facing profound challenges, our ministries embody our commitment to walk alongside individuals and families in moments of need, providing comfort, guidance, and a renewed sense of hope.

“My role is to connect people with the services they need, helping them sort through difficulties so they can begin rebuilding their lives with hope and dignity. Food, shelter and clothing are basic needs everyone should have access to.”

—Cheri Gleason, Case Worker, Seeds of Service, Brick

With your gift to the ACA, together, we answer the call to care, serve, and strengthen one another in God’s love.

Ways to Give

Mail: Send check or money order payable to: Annual Catholic Appeal, Diocese of Trenton PO Box 70170, Newark, NJ 07101

Online: Scan the QR code or visit giveaca.org to make a gift using credit cards, bank draft, PayPal, Apple Pay, or Venmo!

Call : 609-403-7197

Email: develop@dioceseoftrenton.org

Additional Gift Options: Gifts of Stock, IRA Distributions, Bequests, Charitable Annuities, and Cryptocurrency can be coordinated by contacting the Department of Development at 609-403-7197 or develop@dioceseoftrenton.org

ON THE COVER

Students from Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Asbury Park, participate in the entrance procession of the Mass Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., celebrated during Catholic Schools Week on Jan. 30. The Rosary and statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary represented the school’s unwavering commitment to Catholic identity and as reminders of the importance of prayer. See more Catholic Schools Week coverage on pages 10-31.

THE

publication of The Diocese of Trenton

MONITOR

MAGAZINE

Business and Editorial Offices • 701 Lawrenceville Rd. P.O. Box 5147 • Trenton, NJ 08638-0147 • 609.406.7400 www.TrentonMonitor.com

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32-36

Student volunteers from Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville, watch over the crowd during the opening ceremonies at the Diocesan Youth Conference, Feb. 1. Rose O’Connor photo

From the Bishop

Bishop reflects on World Marriage Day

Bishop issues Lenten guidelines; reflects on pillars of Lent

Issues & Advocacy

NJCC seeks nursing budget increase for nonpublic schools

Respect Life

Gift of all human life celebrated; local faithful join in D.C. March for Life

Reasons to support the Annual Catholic Appeal; Priests gain U.S. citizenship; Annual Financial Report

El Centro marks 25 years serving community

Father speaks on Presentation Feast

Claims that the Church profits from refugee work disproved

At Home

Some thoughts on celebrating the gift of marriage

REGULAR FEATURES

62-63  Insight from Father Koch, Mary Morrell

 Question Corner

Fun & Games

John Batkowski photo

El Obispo O’Connell se une a la comunidad de la escuela Nuestra Señora de Monte Carmelo para la Misa del 30 de enero, durante la Semana de las

El

Obispo da

la bienvenida al Año Jubilar semana de las escuelas Católicas 2025 con oración y gratitud

A Nuestras Comunidades de Escuelas Católicas en la Diócesis de Trenton,

Como su Obispo, estoy muy feliz de saludarlos al comenzar nuestra Semana de las Escuelas Católicas del Año Jubilar en la Diócesis de Trenton. Cada mañana, al comenzar mi

¡Lee más en línea! Visita trentonmonitor.com>peces para ver más historias en español de toda nuestra diócesis y del mundo.

Tomarse el tiempo para celebrar el matrimonio

El Papa envía sus condolencias a las familias de las víctimas del accidente aéreo cerca de Washington DC

La Marcha por la Vida comparte una visión provida que acoge a los bebés y apoya a las familias

día, oro en mi capilla por ustedes para que nuestro Señor Jesús pueda continuar bendiciéndolos a ustedes y a sus familias de escuelas católicas. Estoy agradecido por todos los regalos que Dios nos da a través de nuestras increíbles escuelas católicas, especialmente las oportunidades que brindan a nuestros estudiantes para crecer en conocimiento y estar “unidos en la fe y la comunidad”. Agradezco a todos nuestros directores, administradores, profesores, entrenadores y personal por su trabajo diario, orientación y cuidado de nuestros estudiantes. También estoy muy agradecido a los padres cuyos sacrificios hacen posible una educación católica sobresaliente. Y, finalmente, a todos nuestros maravillosos estudiantes, oro para que cada día les traiga alegría y esperanza a medida que crecen. Sean generosos al compartir sus dones unos con otros. ¡Que tengas una gran semana!

Con mi cariño, bendiciones y mejores deseos en Nuestro Señor, Reverendo David M. O’Connell, C.M., J.C.D.

Obispo de Trenton

Tomarse el tiempo para celebrar el matrimonio

POR NICK PETRILLO  Colaborador especial

¿EHaciendo que la fe se mantenga viva en tu familia EN Making Faith Come Alive for Your Family

stá usted o alguien que conoce casado? ¿Está buscando formas de celebrar su matrimonio en un día que no sea su aniversario? No se preocupe, esto no es una prueba sorpresa. Cada año la Iglesia celebra la Semana Mundial del Matrimonio, y el segundo domingo de febrero es el Domingo Mundial del Matrimonio. Esta es una oportunidad para que reflexionemos y celebremos esta hermosa vocación y Sacramento. Como hombre casado al que le encanta estar casado (es la mejor vida que he vivido) y como director asociado de el Ministerio de Matrimonio y de NFP (Planificacion Natural de Familias) estoy compartiendo algunas ideas sobre cómo hacer precisamente eso.

ALÍSTESE PARA EL 2024/25 AHORA Nos encargamos de:

Preparar el cortacésped para el tiempo invernal

Vaciar el tanque

Cambiar el aceite y las bujías

Reemplazar filtros de aire

Afilar los filos

NUESTROS TRES ESTABLECIMIENTOS SE ENCUENTRAN EN

¿Pasaste horas escogiendo minuciosamente las mejores fotografías y el diseño para un álbum de bodas? ¿Cuándo fue la última vez que miraste tu álbum de bodas? ¿Les has mostrado el álbum a tus hijos? Se dedicó tiempo y esfuerzo a capturar los “mejores momentos” de uno de los días más felices de su vida. Esta semana, revise el álbum y comparta sobre el día.

Reflexiona sobre por qué quisiste casarte y qué ha significado para ti tu matrimonio. ¿Cómo pensaste que sería el matrimonio? Comparte lo que recuerdas del día. ¿Qué estabas esperando? Si pudieras revivir un momento del día, ¿qué te gustaría volver a experimentar?

Lea la historia completa en TrentonMonitor.com>peces

Escuelas Católicas. Foto de John Batkowski.

Faith Formation & Parish Ministry Conference

Come for a day of formation and renewal, designed to support all those who share and pass on the Catholic faith.

Faith Formation & Parish Ministry Conference

Come for a day of formation and renewal, designed to support all those who share and pass on the Catholic faith.

Are you a Catechist, Catholic School Teacher, Campus or Youth Minister? Do you serve on an RCIA, Evangelization, Adult Faith Formation, Baptism, or Marriage Ministry team? There will be something for everyone in ministry!

Formation & Parish Ministry Conference

Faith Formation & Parish Ministry Conference

The day will o er breakout sessions in both English and Spanish.

Come for a day of formation and renewal, designed to support all those who share and pass on the Catholic faith.

Come for a day of formation and renewal, designed to support all those who share and pass on the

Faith Formation & Parish Ministry Conference

Chris Padgett

Come for a day of formation and renewal, designed to support all those who share and pass on the Catholic faith.

DATE: Saturday March 29, 2025

Come for a day of formation and renewal, designed to support all those who share and pass on the Catholic faith.

Catholic speaker, musician, author, professor and comedian

Featured Speakers:

The day will o er breakout sessions in both English and Spanish.

TIME: 8 AM-3 PM

English - Chris Padgett Spanish - Fr. Agustino Torres, CFR Mass with Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M.

Faith Formation & Parish Ministry Conference

Are you a Catechist, Catholic School Teacher, Campus or Youth Minister? Do you serve on an OCIA, Evangelization, Adult Faith Formation, Baptism, or Marriage Ministry team? There will be something for everyone in ministry!

The day will o er breakout sessions in both English and Spanish.

Chris Padgett

and comedian

LOCATION:

DATE: Saturday March 29, 2025

The day will o er breakout sessions in both English and Spanish.

12:15 pm Workshops or Lunch/Exhibitors

1:15 pm Workshops or Lunch/Exhibitors

Come for a day of formation and renewal, designed to support all those who share and pass on the Catholic faith.

St. John Vianney High School

The day will offer breakout sessions in both English and Spanish.

540-A Line Rd

DATE: Saturday March 29, 2025

The day will o er breakout sessions in both English and Spanish.

TIME: 8 AM-3 PM

The day will o er breakout sessions in both English and Spanish.

DATE: Saturday March 29, 2025 TIME: 8 AM-3 PM

Holmdel, NJ 07733

TIME: 8 AM-3 PM

LOCATION:

DATE: Saturday March 29, 2025

EARN MORE

Questions? Contact Michelle Angelo Santoro 609-403-7174 | mangelo@dioceseoftrenton.org | dioceseoftrenton.org/hope2025

St. John Vianney High School

LOCATION:

DATE: Saturday March 29, 2025

LOCATION: St. John Vianney High School 540-A Line Rd Holmdel, NJ 07733

The day will o er breakout sessions in both English and Spanish.

TIME: 8 AM-3 PM

540-A Line Rd Holmdel, NJ 07733

DATE: Saturday March 29, 2025

St. John Vianney High School 540-A Line Rd

Questions? Contact Michelle Angelo Santoro 609-403-7174 mangelo@dioceseoftrenton.org | dioceseoftrenton.org/hope2025

LOCATION:

TIME: 8 AM-3 PM

TIME:

Holmdel, NJ 07733

Questions? Contact Michelle Angelo Santoro 609-403-7174 | mangelo@dioceseoftrenton.org | dioceseoftrenton.org/hope2025

DATE: Saturday March 29, 2025

8 AM-3 PM

St. John Vianney High School

LOCATION:

Questions? Contact Michelle Angelo Santoro 609-403-7174 | mangelo@dioceseoftrenton.org | dioceseoftrenton.org/hope2025

540-A Line Rd Holmdel, NJ 07733

TIME: 8 AM-3 PM

LOCATION:

St. John Vianney High School

540-A Line Rd

Questions? Contact Michelle Angelo Santoro

AND ANOINTING: March 18, 12:00pm-3:30

St. John Vianney High School

Holmdel, NJ 07733

LOCATION:

540-A Line Rd Holmdel, NJ 07733

609-403-7174 | mangelo@dioceseoftrenton.org | dioceseoftrenton.org/hope2025

RESOUNDING PEACE: PASTORAL MUSICIANS WORKSHOP: April 22-24, 2025 • PRESENTER: Rev. Ricky Manalo, CSP

Questions? Contact Michelle Angelo Santoro

609-403-7174 | mangelo@dioceseoftrenton.org | dioceseoftrenton.org/hope2025

609-403-7174 | mangelo@dioceseoftrenton.org | dioceseoftrenton.org/hope2025 MORE

VALENTINE TWILIGHT EVENING OF RECOLLECTION FOR MARRIED COUPLES: February 13, 4:00 - 8:00pm “Hope Springs Eternal”

Questions? Contact Michelle Angelo Santoro

St. John Vianney High School 540-A Line Rd Holmdel, NJ 07733

RETREATS FOR WOMEN: March: 7-9, 28-30 • April 4-6, 11-13 (Palm Sunday), 25-27 • May 2-4, 16-18 • May 19-21 (Mid-week) • June 20–22

Questions? Contact Michelle Angelo Santoro 609-403-7174 | mangelo@dioceseoftrenton.org | dioceseoftrenton.org/hope2025

HOLY WEEK RETREAT: April 16-20

PRIEST AND DEACON RENEWAL WEEKEND: June 9-13

PRESENTER: Rev. Ricky Manalo, CSP

Chris Padgett Catholic speaker, musician,

Catholic speaker, musician, author, professor

Fr. Agustino Torres, CFR

Chris Padgett Catholic speaker, musician, author, professor and comedian

Fr. Agustino Torres, CFR Priest with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal and Co-Founder of Corazón Puro

There is so much more to say

If you have been a reader of The Monitor, or a follower of any of our diocesan media, you likely know that Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., is a prolific writer. As bishop, he is the Chief Teacher of the Diocese, and he takes this responsibility very seriously.

Actually, the Bishop’s facility with the written word – be they the substance of homilies; essays; messages or presentations – preceded his assignment to the Diocese of Trenton and can be traced back to his many years as an educational leader. With writing, some people are born with the gift and I am convinced that is the case with our Bishop.

What is it like to be the group that works with the Bishop’s writing and is responsible for publishing, posting and disseminating in a multitude of ways?

In a word, BUSY! He never stops thinking; he never stops writing and he does so with lightning speed.

Take this issue of the magazine, for instance. You will note that Bishop has graced these pages with a message for 1) National Marriage Week and World Marriage Day; 2) The value of Catholic schools, and 3) Lenten inspiration and guidelines as the penitential season approaches. Add to that the homilies he gave while visiting six Catholic schools in six days during Catholic Schools Week and for the Mass he celebrated at the Annual Meeting for the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities in Washington. You can find the coverage of these visits and events in this issue.

But his writing in the past few weeks did not end there. There are two other messages which we could not squeeze into this issue – one on World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life and one

on World Day of the Sick. Thankfully, they are available on our website and I encourage you to access them there because they offer both information and insight.

Here are a few excerpts:

For World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life – observed Feb. 2 each year – he wrote: “Here in the United States, throughout its history, the Catholic Church has depended upon these consecrated women and men for so many of the essential ministries that have enabled the Catholic Church to grow, flourish and thrive. They are the Franciscan and Jesuit missionaries who labored in Colonial times, as well as the countless numbers of dedicated religious women who built and taught in Catholic schools, served in hospitals, reached out to comfort and serve the poor through social services and parish ministry or devoted themselves to prayer in a cloister. They include the many who have faithfully served in our own Diocese: the Religious Teachers Filippini, the Sisters of St. Joseph, the Sisters of Mercy, the Sister Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary, the Sisters of St. Francis, the Missionaries of Charity, the Resurrection Sisters, the

Poor Clares, and many others.”

In anticipation of World Day of the Sick on Feb. 11, the Bishop wrote: “(This) is not merely a commemoration. It is an opportunity to extend the Lord Jesus’ own compassion to our fragile sisters and brothers, suffering in body, mind and soul. We all know someone who is suffering in those ways.

“World Day of the Sick is also an opportunity for the sick themselves to look at the Lord Jesus on the Cross and to ask him to join their pain and suffering to his own. Yes, it is a reminder to the sick of our human mortality, not as an end but as a means to the immortality he promises to those who believe in him, who trust in him, who hope in him, who love him.”

This is just a small sampling of the body or work that he continues to build upon. Bishop O’Connell might grow weary of all the “World of Days” and “National Weeks”, but he rarely passes up the opportunity to build a new teaching around them.

I challenge our readers to check in regularly with the Bishop at trentonmonitor.com/news/bishops-corner/ See if you can keep up with him!

A message from RAYANNE BENNETT Associate Publisher

Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., poses for a photo with two members of the Missionaries of Charity, during his visit to the Diocesan Youth Conference Feb. 1. Bishop O’Connell recently wrote about the vital role that those in consecrated life continue to hold in the Church. Matt Marzorati photo

Marriage: A Source of Hope, Spring of Renewal and Pursuit of Lasting Love

A Message from BISHOP DAVID M. O’CONNELL, C.M.

As Catholics, we celebrate marriage in the Church as “a Sacrament.” The Baltimore Catechism states that a Sacrament is one of the seven “outward signs instituted by Christ to give grace (Question 574).” The Catechism of the Catholic Church (CCC) similarly defines a Sacrament as an “efficacious signs of grace, instituted by Christ and entrusted to the Church, by which divine life is dispensed to us (CCC 1131).” The 1983 Code of Canon Law (CCL) states that “the Sacraments of the New Testament were instituted by Christ the Lord and entrusted to the Church” as “actions of Christ and the Church … “signs and means which express and strengthen the faith, render worship to God, and effect the sanctification of humanity and thus contribute in the greatest way to establish, strengthen, and manifest ecclesiastical communion (canon 840).”

 “The couple grows in love and grows by loving.”

CCL goes on to define the Sacrament of Marriage as “a covenant by which a baptized man and a woman “establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life and which is ordered by its nature to the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring (canon 1055).”

The Church establishes laws and regulations for the baptized faithful that govern its valid celebration.

As Catholics, we understand sacramental marriage as something not just between a baptized man and woman but between the two parties and God. That is why we refer to the Sacrament of Marriage as a “covenant.”

St. John Chrysostom (347-407), the famous theologian from the Church in the fourth century, encouraged couples who marry “to do as they did at Cana in Galilee. Let them have Christ in their midst (Homily 22 on the Gospel of John).”

Baptized couples choose to be married in the Catholic Church for that reason in the sight of an eternally faithful and generous God who so loved the world that he gave himself to us in the person of the Lord Jesus Christ. In the

spirit of this faithful and generous God, husband and wife give themselves in love to one another. A spiritual life then grows as love finds its center beyond themselves. Faithful and committed relationships offer a door into the mystery of spiritual life in which we discover this: the more we give of self, the richer we become in soul; the more we go beyond ourselves in love, the more we become our true selves and our spiritual beauty is more fully revealed. In marriage we are seeking to bring one another into a spiritually fuller life.

A couple does not begin marriage with perfect love. The couple grows in love and grows by loving. Love is hard work. Sometimes married love brings sufferings and sacrifice. If not, love has been a disguised form of selfishness. But just as the Church is strengthened

Continued on 8

@foryourmarriage

PURSUE A LASTING LOVE!

MARRIAGE IS WORTH IT! • EVERY FEB 7-14

National Marriage Week USA

Here are a few highlights from Bishop O’Connell’s recent visits and events.

From the sanctuary of St. Paul Church, Princeton, Bishop O’Connell looks out over his young flock as he watches the community from the parish school receive Holy Communion during the Catholic Schools Mass he celebrated Jan. 26. Staff photo

Bishop O’Connell and the diocesan seminarians studying in Mount St. Mary’s University, Emmitsburg, Maryland, gather for a photo at the Diocesan Youth Conference Feb. 1. The seminarians engaged with attendees, answering questions about vocation and participating in the day’s events. Courtesy photo

The beauty and gift of a sacramental marriage

Continued from 7 through sufferings and sacrifice, a loving relationship in marriage grows “in the valleys.” There is often more growth in the valleys than on the mountain tops. Both, however, bring a unique share in God’s blessings and rewards.

The Lord Jesus Christ Jesus has commanded his followers to love as he has loved. How did Jesus love? He loved until it cost him. He loved all the way to the cross and death. That is love. If he had stopped loving before Calvary then it would not have been love at all. It would have been only for what he could get out of it. But love, in the sense that Jesus means, is loving even when it means undergoing sufferings and sacrifice for the sake of the other. That is real love, loving for the good of the other. That is precisely how the Lord Jesus Christ explains his love in the Gospel of John when he said: “No one has greater love than this, to lay down one’s life for

one’s friends. (John 15:13).”

Again and again, human beings gave God all sorts of reasons to turn his back on us but he kept on loving us because he made a covenant with us, not a contract. You can use all sorts of legal means to wiggle your way out of a contract but a covenant is irrevocable. That is precisely the love of God we see for us in his covenant with us.

There are many ideas of “marriage” proposed in the world today but true married life for the baptized is a Sacrament received in the Lord Jesus Christ. Therefore, it is a covenant “until death do us part,” not a contract. Married couples each and every day need to turn to Christ to sustain their love for each other.

The Sacrament of Marriage is something very human, fulfilling the desire in the hearts of all of us to share our lives with one another. But marriage is at the same time a Sacrament of God and the Church that is faithful, fruitful and forever.

In this Jubilee Year, as we celebrate “National Marriage Week (February 7-14)” and “World Marriage Day (February 9)” throughout the Diocese of Trenton, let all married couples respond to Pope Francis’ invitation to be “pilgrims of hope” to one another as we focus on building a culture of life and love that begins with supporting and promoting marriage and the family as a “source of hope” in and for the world.

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Ice cream socials and crazy hat days; science exhibits and sporting events; honoring first responders and worshiping God . . .With its color, excitement and commitment, Catholic Schools Week 2025 succeeded in highlighting the Church’s mission of passing on the faith.

St. Joseph, Toms River

Courtesy photo St. Charles Borromeo, Cinnaminson Courtesy photo

Our Lady of Sorrows, Hamilton Mike Ehrmann photo

St. Leo the Great, LIncroft Courtesy photo

St. Catharine, Spring Lake Courtesy photo

St. Mary of the Lakes, Medford Courtesy photo

Bishop welcomes Jubilee Year CSW 2025 with prayer and gratitude

In a letter to all Catholic school communities in the Diocese of Trenton, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., marked the opening of the Jubilee Year’s Catholic Schools Week, which was observed from Jan. 26 through Feb. 1. The Bishop expressed a sense of gratitude for all involved in the essential ministry of Catholic education and assured them that he continues to pray for them.

Directing his comments to Catholic school educators and leaders, Bishop O’Connell wrote, “I am so happy to greet you as we begin our Jubilee Year

Catholic Schools Week. Each morning, as I begin my day, I pray in my chapel that our Lord Jesus might continue to bless you and your Catholic school families. I am grateful for all the gifts that God gives us through our amazing Catholic schools, especially the opportunities they provide for our students to grow in knowledge and to be ‘united in faith and community.’”

The letter continued, “I thank all our principals, administrators, faculty members, coaches and staff for their daily work, guidance and care for our

New Jersey governor proclaims Catholic Schools Week

New Jersey Gov. Phil Murphy recently signed a proclamation designating the week of Jan. 26 – Feb. 1, 2025, as Catholic Schools’ Week in New Jersey and acknowledged the contributions of Catholic schools to the public wellbeing of all New Jerseyans. The theme for this year’s Catholic Schools’ Week was “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community.”

Dr. George V. Corwell, director of the Office of Education for the New Jersey Catholic Conference, noted that the governor’s proclamation continues the tradition of recognition afforded Catholic schools in New Jersey by the executive branch of state government.

“The Catholic schools of New Jersey represent an investment in New Jersey’s future, and the sacrifices made by Catholic school parents save the state’s overburdened public school system (and local tax payers) over $1.3 billion annually,” stated Dr. Corwell. “We hope that all residents of New Jersey recognize the dedicated efforts of Catholic school teachers which contribute to the overall success of our schools. Truly, Catholic schools represent a significant opportunity for parental choice in education.”

Gov. Murphy’s proclamation represents one component of New Jersey’s annual celebration of Catholic Schools’ Week. A variety of related activities were planned at both the diocesan and local levels to highlight the achievements of Catholic schools.

students. I am also most grateful to the parents whose sacrifices make an outstanding Catholic education possible.”

Addressing the youngsters in Catholic school, the Bishop wrote, “To all our wonderful students, I pray that each day may bring you joy and hope as you grow. Be generous in sharing your gifts with one another!”

He signed the letter, “With my love, blessings and best wishes in Our Lord.”

Be ‘Pilgrims of Hope’ in and for our Catholic schools

A MESSAGE FROM BISHOP DAVID M. O’CONNELL, C.M., FOR CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK 2025

Every generation has the obligation and responsibility to educate the next generation. That involves the teaching of subjects like math and science, language and literature, history and health, among others.

Catholics are no less bound than their public counterparts to educate their young in the same subjects. There is something else, however, that is not merely a subject in the curriculum found in public schools but, rather, an atmosphere, a culture, an environment, a spirit, yes, even a vernacular that pervades the Catholic school community … and that is the Catholic faith. In the

Catholic school, the Catholic religion is a subject to be taught, learned, loved and lived well beyond its doors.

As the Second Vatican Council reminded us, Catholic parents have always been considered by the Catholic Church as the primary teachers of the Catholic faith in their homes. But as their children grow, many parents have come to depend upon Catholic education to support and strengthen what they believe and teach their children. Whether in the Catholic

Bishop O’Connell greets students Jan. 30 in Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Asbury Park, after celebrating Mass for the community.

John Batkowski photo

school, the parish religious education program or the Catholic home school –truly Catholic education is the best and most important way for parents to hand on, nurture and promote the Catholic faith for and within the next generation. To neglect or surrender this obligation, whatever the reason, is to risk the loss of the Catholic faith not only for this generation but for generations to come.

At one time, the Catholic school system in the United States was the best and the biggest and the brightest in the world! The history of Catholic education here can be traced back to the early 17th century when being a Catholic was neither popular nor politic. But the Church persevered, despite significant obstacles placed in its path. The seeds of faith sown by parents in Catholic homes and by heroic priests and religious women and men in Catholic schools took root and God blessed their efforts as the Catholic faith grew and spread in our country.

With names like John Carroll, Elizabeth Ann Seton, John Neumann, Elizabeth Lange, Theresa Duchemin and Katherine Drexel, the early history of Catholic education in our country was written. And no one can ever forget the countless religious women who made teaching the Catholic faith their life’s work, regardless of the personal cost and sacrifice. These brave and selfless women whose names may never be known or remembered built the Catholic Church in our country, literally from the ground up, child by child, grade by grade, school by school until every Catholic family in our nation had the chance to hear the “Good News” of the Lord Jesus Christ

Stakes high for educating young Catholics

Continued from 11

and to learn their Catholic faith.

Catholic education made a difference not only in our Church but in American society as well. That is the legacy of Catholic schools.

When he visited the United States in 2008, Pope Benedict XVI spoke to Catholic educators at The Catholic University of America in Washington, D.C. I welcomed and sat next to him on the stage that day as he told us:

Education is integral to the mission of the Church to proclaim the Good News. First and foremost every Catholic educational institution is a place to encounter the living God who in Jesus Christ reveals his transforming love and truth (cf. Spe Salvi, 4). This relationship elicits a desire to grow in the knowledge and understanding of Christ and his teaching. In this way those who meet him are drawn by the very power of the Gospel to lead a new life characterized by all that is beautiful, good, and true; a life of Christian witness nurtured and strengthened within the community of the Lord’s disciples.

Pope Benedict XVI continued:

This task is never easy; it involves the entire Christian community and motivates

each generation of Christian educators to ensure that the power of God’s truth permeates every dimension of the institutions they serve. In this way, Christ’s Good News is set to work.

Catholic schools do an excellent job at educating our young people across the curriculum, graduating more students and sending more graduates to college than their secular counterparts. Catholic schools infuse their students with the “Good News” of the Lord Jesus Christ and with the Catholic faith intended to last a lifetime, with light and hope so contrary to what our contemporary, relativistic society offers. So, what is the risk?

Catholic faith at the age of 13!

How is the Catholic faith to be handed on and nourished? The mainstream media has convinced some otherwise faithful Catholics that long-held Church teachings are “out of touch” and irrelevant to contemporary life. Even the cherished religious freedom as Americans to believe what we believe and practice our Catholic faith is under attack by the very government that was established to protect that freedom. American historian Arthur Schlesinger, Sr., once wrote that “anti-Catholicism is the most deeply held bias in the history of the American people.”

Less than 17% of Catholic adults attend Sunday Mass in the Diocese of Trenton. A large majority of young Catholics in our Catholic schools and religious education programs do not continue to study their faith beyond the time they receive Confirmation and they absent themselves from Mass. Some studies have indicated that young Catholics decide to cease practicing their

These are the facts. So, what do we, as Catholics, do? Give up? Give in? Surrender? Never! The stakes are too high. The battle has been too long and hard fought. The prize, too precious. The sacrifices upon which the Catholic Church in our country has been built have created too solid a foundation to let it crumble. “You are Peter,” the Lord Jesus promised, “and upon this ‘Rock’ I will build my Church and the gates of hell shall not prevail against it (Matthew 16:18).” And in another place, “The gate is small and the road is narrow that leads to life (Matthew 7:14).”

When our Colonial forefathers faced tyranny and suppression from their enemies in the Revolutionary War, did they give up? No. Had they done so, America would never have been born. When our citizens in blue and grey confronted each other in the Civil War, did slavery prevail? No. Freedom won the day and the union was preserved. When two World Wars spilled the blood of so many women and men in uniform defending our nation and its sovereignty, did they surrender? No, they fought on to victory. When Rosa Parks and Martin Luther King Jr. stood up to prejudice and unjust discrimination, did widespread opposition or jail or even

St. Jerome School students present the gifts of bread and wine to Bishop O’Connell during his Catholic Schools Week visit to the West Long Branch School on Jan. 29. At right is Father Marcin Kania, pastor of Our Lady of Hope Parish, West Long Branch. John Batkowski photo

an assassin’s bullet weaken the cause of civil rights? No. They changed a nation. Countless stories and profiles in courage in our history, despite the odds, have blended together into the confidence we still have in America. When one door closed, another opened.

 “When we have a sense of what is possible in Christ ... our faith prevails.”

Can the Catholic Church show less courage, less faith in the face of adversity? We need look no further than the Lord Jesus Christ himself and the cross that he bore for the answer. The tree of man’s defeat became his tree of victory. The martyrs, the saints of old, the people of faith who have prayed and sacrificed and struggled down through the ages have handed on to us in our time a Catholic faith that still is holy, that still elicits hope, that still inspires love, come what may.

When we have a sense of what is possible in Christ, our courage is strengthened, our convictions become firm, our resolve is emboldened, our hope is restored and our faith prevails.

The gift and grace of Catholic education introduces us to what is possible in Christ. That is what our Catholic faith does and what Catholic schools offer. They are “integral to the mission of the Church” because they lead us and our children to an encounter with Christ, who makes all things possible. I am reminded of that passage in St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans: “How can they call on him in whom they have not believed? And how can they believe in him if they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone to preach? And how can people preach unless they are sent? … Thus, faith comes from what is heard and what is heard comes through the Word of Christ (Romans 10: 14-17).”

Catholic education – the Catholic school and Catholic religious education programs, building upon its beginnings in the Catholic home – enable us to believe, to deepen our faith and to hear the Word of Christ, indeed, to encounter him, through those who have been sent to share with us the “Good News.”

Our Holy Father Pope Francis has taught us that “true education enables us to love life and opens us to the fullness of life (Pope Francis, “Address to Catholic Teachers and Students,” 2014).” In essence, that love for life is what Cath-

olic schools inspire in their students. Everything that happens in the Catholic school is a call to those students to be the very best they can be in life: not simply by getting by; not just by putting in another day. Catholic schools recognize that their students are the future of our nation and our world.

President Kennedy said it well: “Children are the world’s most valuable resource and its best hope for the future (UNICEF Appeal, July 25, 1963).” And we only have a few precious years to make them aware of that and to help them realize their potential. “Catholic schools have it all,” we often say in the Diocese of Trenton. The excellence in “true education” that we impart in the Catholic school is what makes the world better, safer, more just, more loving, more ethical, more peaceful … more holy and more full of hope. What could possibly be more important or greater?

This year, as we celebrate Catholic Schools Week with its theme “Faith. Excellence. Service,” let all Catholic families, homes and parishes in the Diocese of Trenton also celebrate the Jubilee Year by responding to Pope Francis’ invitation to be “Pilgrims of Hope,” a hope that our Catholic schools joyfully make possible and provide!

 Bishop O’Connell greets a St. Ann School student after the Lawrenceville school’s flag raising ceremony. Rose O’Connor photo

 Joined by principal Joanna Barlow, students of Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly, visit with Bishop O’Connell about CSW activities. Mary Stadnyk photo

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK:

Celebrating learning communities where the Gospel is lived every day

Message from VINCENT DE PAUL SCHMIDT Superintendent of Catholic Schools

As the Superintendent of Schools for the Diocese of Trenton, I am honored to represent our many excellent and Christ-centered Catholic schools.

Our Diocese covers a wide-reaching swath of the State of New Jersey with four counties that, together, reach from the Pennsylvania line all the way to the beaches. Each of these counties has a different flavor and make-up, but the Catholic schools in all of these counties have one thing in common … they are living the Gospel values that represent the mission of Catholic education each and every day.

 Our schools respond to the needs ... in the community as well ...”

Our Catholic schools are so very special because of the faith-filled communities that support our programs. Every parent, educator and student contribute to their success. Our schools’ leaders never lose sight of their three most important responsibilities: Making sure our schools are living the Catholic mission, are promotors of real academic student achievement and are safe for all that attend and work in our buildings.

How do our schools do this?

Our schools respond to the needs of the students in the classroom, but in the community as well; whenever/wherever it is needed. The needs might be spiritual, educational or even social. It might be a meal to eat or a shoulder to cry on or a

tutoring session for a challenging lesson. The needs are ever present and our Catholic schools continue to help others as true servant leaders should.

The Catholic schools in the Diocese of Trenton are taking off into unprecedented areas of academic growth and rigor along with a continual focus on Catholic identity. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., often says, “Catholic schools have it all!” when asked about this essential teaching ministry. As superintendent, I could not agree more. This sentiment comes from the committed teams of educators that are dedicated to leading all students in our schools to a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ, strong academic achievement, personal growth in the areas of social awareness/ social responsibility and a sense of self-reliance that is built on the values for which our Catholic schools are known. This is never on display more than during Catholic Schools’ Week!

Our students are just starting the journey into young adulthood with-

Students from St. Leo the Great School, Lincroft, have enjoyed using the school’s Virtual Reality system. Students were given the option to visit the Big Apple including Central Park, Wall Street, One World Trade Center, The Met and Times Square.

in their faith, and our students are role models and proof of what can be achieved by putting one’s self second. Men and women for others…just as Jesus did throughout his ministry and is calling us to do. It is on display in our Catholic schools EVERYDAY!

Thank you for allowing our Catholic schools the privilege of educating the children of the Diocese of Trenton.

Two students from St. Joan of Arc School, Marlton, bring up the gifts during the school’s weekly Friday Masses.

A student from Donovan Catholic High School, Toms River, traveled to Complete Care Bey Lea to visit residents and participate in activities that promote a healthy mind and mindset. Facebook photos

‘They Keep Coming Back’ Catholic schools are magnets for legacy families

St. Peter School seventh grader Ayla Ergunay stands with her grandmother, Mary Basso, St. Peter School class of 1959.

BY ROSE O’CONNOR 

Digital and Social Media Manager; EMMALEE ITALIA 

Contributing Editor, and MARY STADNYK 

Associate

Editor

“Onceyou come to St. Paul School, you never want to leave!”

And the way Darlene Dunn sees it, she never really did leave. Though Dunn graduated from the Burlington school in 1971, the longtime affinity she had for her alma mater was ultimately what led to her decision to send her two sons there. And now she is the proud grandmother of Emma, 3, who attends its preschool.

 “... [Catholic schools] are doing something right.”

The Dunns are known as a legacy family, a single family with multiple generations choosing to uphold a tradition by attending the same school. For the majority of Catholic school families, the reasons to carry on the tradition pertain to the values and lived faith experiences instilled in the students.

“Our family’s enrollment span is almost 60 years,” Michael Dunn, a 1998 graduate, said of his family’s long history with St. Paul School. “That means they

are doing something right. It is a testament to SPS’s purpose and message.”

Now with Emma at St. Paul, Darlene and Michael have all the more reason to return to their grammar school. Darlene enjoys seeing former classmates who have become longtime friends and are also grandparents, while Michael gets a charge when “walking the halls and having all the memories come flooding back.”

“Being able to share those memories with my children” is special, he said.

One memorable highlight especially for Michael is the large mural on the school’s entryway wall. The mural, which was painted in the 1990s, shows Jesus surrounded by the St. Paul School students, one of whom is Michael.

TOOLS OF FAITH

A similar sentiment on legacy families was expressed by Cristina Ergunay, who is delighted that her seventh-grade daughter, Ayla, attends St. Peter School, Point Pleasant Beach. Cristina’s mother, Mary Basso, graduated from St. Peter’s

in 1959. Although Cristina attended public school, she believes that Catholic schools teach connectedness in that everyone belongs to God’s family.

“We need to care for and love one another as family,” she said. “That connectedness and love – learned at home within families and reinforced in Catholic school families – will enable children to grow in God’s love and ultimately empower them to care for the larger world as their own family.”

Building on that connection, Ergunay could easily identify with the values St. Peter School “vibrantly embodies and teaches – respect, reverence and responsibility.” These values resonate deeply in their family, she explained, “and we knew that we wanted our daughter to learn the same tools that others in our family have been given at St. Peter School – tools of kindness, love, mercy and compassion.”

‘GREAT

SCHOOL WITH GREAT PEOPLE’

Adelaide Torpila says St. Raphael

Courtesy photo

School, Hamilton, is more than just a place of learning – it’s become part of her family’s tradition.

Along with Adelaide’s many years of being involved as a pre-K aide, her husband, John, graduated from the school, and their daughter followed in her father’s footsteps. Now, two of her grandchildren are continuing the legacy as St. Raphael School students.

“It really has a family-like atmosphere,” Torpila said, adding she takes pride in how her grandchildren, fifth

extracurricular activities as a cheerleader, a member of the student council and being an altar server.

“We go to Mass on Fridays,” Elizabeth said, noting that she likes how students can participate in the Mass such as readers.

DEEP ROOTS IN HOLMDEL SCHOOL

The current vice principal of St. Benedict School is very grateful for the extensive history her family has with the Holmdel school.

“The foundation for life that I have received from St. Benedict School rooted me in my Catholic faith and has stayed with me throughout my continuing career in education and beyond,” Megan Gallagher said. “I have a strong sense of being centered in my faith and look to find opportunities to serve others.

grader, Elizabeth, and second grader, Charlotte, represent the third generation of family members attending the school.

“It’s important to come together and support the legacy of Catholic education,” she said, adding that she regards the opportunity for them to celebrate Mass and receive their Sacraments to be a blessing.

Elizabeth shares her grandmother’s appreciation for St. Raphael School. Elizabeth noted that she enjoys her science class and her participation in

“The community that SBS has remained from 1985, when I was in kindergarten, to 2025, speaks volumes about the dedication to the mission and vision of SBS as it upholds the Beatitudes and serves others. I am so proud to be a lifelong member of this community. SBS resonates with the community as this pillar of Catholic education, and I am so proud to say that I have been a part of it for so long.”

Megan Cullinane Gallagher explained that her now deceased mother, Claire Meehan Cullinane, taught in the school while she and her siblings were students.

Then during her years of teaching and now as vice principal, Gallagher has relished seeing her own two sons – John, who graduated last year, and Matthew, a seventh grader – flourish in the school. Her nephew and nieces also attend

Three generations of the Dunn family with connections to St. Paul School, Burlington, are from left, Michael Dunn, who graduated in 1998; Emma, who currently attends preschool, and Michael’s mother, Darlene Dunn, a 1971 graduate. Mary Stadnyk photo

Megan Gallagher, right, a 1985 graduate of St. Benedict School, Holmdel, who now serves as the school’s vice principal, is shown with her sons, Matthew, left, who currently attends St. Benedict School, and John, a 2024 graduate who is now a freshman in Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft. Courtesy photo

Members of the Torpila family pose for a photo with Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., during a visit he made to the parish in September. Courtesy photo

CSW visits were graced occasions for Bishop, school communities

BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

The photos and video footage capturing the very packed Catholic Schools Week schedule of Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., gave every indication that everyone was enjoying the celebrations.

Conversations with some of the students and staff left no doubt they did have a great time during a week filled with many graces, blessings, smiles and memories.

“Ultimately, the Bishop is the person responsible for Catholic education in the Diocese,” Filippini Sister Elizabeth Seton Dalessio said of Bishop O’Connell’s Jan. 29 visit to St. Jerome School, West Long Branch. “We are happy to show him that our Catholic identity is strong. Bishop O’Connell inspires us by his ministry to grow in hope and joy. His joyful presence impels us to share that hope and joy with others. His presence among us proves to us that he cares, supports and is proud of our school community.”

 “The message of the Gospel is indeed alive and well.”

Besides going to St. Jerome School, Bishop O’Connell celebrated Masses and engaged in an array of activities Jan. 27-31 at Our Lady of Sorrows School, Hamilton; St. Paul School, Princeton; St. Ann School, Lawrenceville; Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Asbury Park; and Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly.

“This is Catholic Schools Week – a very special week,” Bishop O’Connell

said in his homilies.

“And you’re so lucky to go to a Catholic school, because not only do we learn history and math and English, we learn about our faith and our God, who created us and loves us so much.”

ON THE ROAD

While Bishop O’Connell visited six of the Diocese’s more than 30 Catholic schools, other schools received a visit from staff of the Department of Catholic Schools – Superintendent Vince Schmidt and Assistant Superintendents Bonnie Milecki and Dan O’Connell.

“No matter the school, there is a whirlwind of activity” during Catholic Schools Week, said Dan O’Connell, who visited Medford, where the St. Mary of the Lakes School community honored first responders from their town and treated them to breakfast. He also attended the talent show at St. Gregory the Great Academy, Hamilton Square, as well as Sacred Heart School and St. Paul schools.

Reflecting on this year’s theme, “Catholic Schools: United in Faith and Community,” O’Connell said Catholic Schools Week “gives our schools the chance to show the world that the message of the Gospel is indeed alive and well and can be experienced in each and every Catholic school in the Diocese of Trenton.”

“The week affords our schools the opportunity to demonstrate to their school communities and local communities exactly why we say that Catholic Schools have it all,” he said.

Milecki visited St. Dominic, Brick; St. Ann; St. Rose of Lima, Freehold; St. Peter, Point Pleasant Beach; Red Bank

High School; Holy Cross Academy, Rumson; and Sacred Heart.

“Whenever we visit schools throughout the year, the students express that one of their favorite school traditions is the celebration of Catholic Schools Week,” Milecki said.

“It’s so clear why this tradition has a lasting impact on students. It is a time in Catholic schools when the commitment of parents, the passion of teachers, and the joy of students aligns for a full week of fun and a celebration of our Catholic faith,” she said.

“Getting to visit schools and seeing creative teachers lead events and lessons connected to our faith, and students leading at Mass, and parents bearing witness to the faith community they have selected for their children to experience – it’s powerful.”

VALIDATING WORK WITH STUDENTS

Bishop O’Connell’s week began at Our Lady of Sorrows School, where principal Maureen Tuohy noted how nice it was to have him help start the school’s 70th anniversary year.

“This is the beginning of a year of celebrating,” Tuohy said.

After the Mass, Tuohy and Msgr. Thomas N. Gervasio, pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, accompanied the Bishop on a walk-through of the school, where he engaged with students and stopped in the gym to watch students playing basketball.

“He makes us feel that our work is important, and his support in our endeavors builds us up,” Tuohy said.

with a class in St.

 For more Catholic Schools Week photos, visit TrentonMonitor.com and click on More Galleries

After blessing the new mobile classroom on the campus of

and

School, West Long Branch, Bishop O’Connell poses for a photo with Dr. Vincent de Paul Schmidt, diocesan superintendent of Catholic Education; Father Marcin Kania, pastor of Our Lady of Hope Parish, and Filippini Sister Elizabeth Seton Dalessio, principal of St. Jerome School. John Batkowski photo

Bishop O’Connell engages in conversation with a student from Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly. Mary Stadnyk photo

Bishop O’Connell visited the classrooms in Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Asbury Park. Also pictured are the priests who serve in Mother of Mercy Parish, Asbury Park. John Batkowski photo

Bishop O’Connell poses

Ann School, Lawrenceville, along with Father Leandro “Lines” Dela Cruz, pastor of St. Ann Parish,

Ameriquin Dalmasy-Laccetti, head of school. Rose O’Connor photo

St. Jerome

Students from Our Lady of Sorrows School, Hamilton, present the gifts of bread and wine to Bishop O’Connell during Mass. Mike Ehrmann photo

Bishop O’Connell and Father Christopher Dayton, pastor of St. Paul Parish, look on as a student and principal, Kim Clauss, play rock paper scissors. Mike Ehrmann photo

CSW celebrates faith and community

“Catholic Schools Week is so important because it validates all we strive to accomplish with our students.

“We celebrate our faith and the impact it makes upon each individual, as well as the larger community and nation,” she said. “We use this week to reinforce our relationship with our families through the many activities we offer. We also take the time to focus on our values and mission: faith building and service to others. … This is what sets us apart from the public sector.”

After the Bishop’s Jan. 27 Mass at St. Paul School, the sixth-, seventh- and eighth-grade honor roll students were recognized and posed for a group photo with the Bishop. After Mass, the Bishop visited the classrooms, accompanied by Principal Kim Clauss and Father Chris Dayton, pastor.

“Catholic Schools Week is a great

 “CSW celebrates the hallmarks of Catholic education.”

way to celebrate, in a big way, our faith and who we are,” Clauss said, adding that the Bishop’s presence “gives our students the opportunity to get to know the spiritual leader of the Diocese of Trenton.”

“Our children stated that they enjoy the presence of Bishop O’Connell because he relates to them in a special way,” Clauss said.

THE BISHOP ‘IS OUR FRIEND’

Bishop O’Connell was at St. Ann School bright and early Jan. 28 for the outdoor flag-raising ceremony and special recognition of community leaders. Honorees included Lawrence Township Mayor Patricia Hendricks Farmer, members of the Lawrence Township Police Department and the Slackwood Fire Department.

“I received the foundation of my faith and made friends that I still have today,” Farmer, said, recalling her days as a student in St. Ann School. Her alma mater, she said, “helped make me who I am today.

Lt. Kevin Reading, also a St. Ann School graduate, expressed appreciation for the school’s support, especially in his current role as the town’s interim police chief.

“I love to see the smiles on the kids’ faces. The staff is very supportive of us, and we are happy to support the school. We love participating in events,” he said.

After the ceremony, the Bishop had breakfast with the community leaders before visiting classrooms with Father Leandro Dela Cruz, St. Ann Parish pastor, and Ameriquin Delmasy-Laccetti, head of school.

of the Bishop: “‘I know him. He is our friend.’

“You can’t get any better than that,” she said.

CORE VALUES

Bishop O’Connell’s Jan. 30 Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel School began with a procession of students carrying items that represented what Katie O’Meara, principal, called “the core values of who we are as a school”: a statue of Mary and Rosaries, reminders of the power of prayer and deep-rooted traditions that guide lives; symbols of service efforts – Birthday in a Bag and the Annual Warming Wall; and certificates and plaques that recognized student achievements.

At St. Jerome School Jan. 29, Bishop O’Connell blessed and dedicated the new modular STEAM classroom, which Sister Elizabeth Seton described as “the culmination of years of work and preparation by our school administration, teachers, staff as well as the awesome generosity of donors who have supported this project.”

“Curiosity and critical thinking are fruits of STEAM” – Science, Technology, Engineering, Art and Math, said Sister Elizabeth. “As a Catholic STEAM school, we will help our children experience the beautiful harmony of faith and reason so they can be a light in the secular world, both in their careers and in their lives.”

Sister Elizabeth smiled when she said the St. Jerome students took great pride in the work they did to “make this day a reality.

“The students were very happy to see Bishop O’Connell once again,” she said, then referenced one student saying

Second grader Yumi Nunez said how much she enjoyed Catholic Schools Week simply because “we get to celebrate how great OLMC is.”

The Bishop’s Jan. 31 visit to Sacred Heart School coincided with the its “Special Persons” celebration, in which each student invited a special person in their life to attend the Mass and then visit their classroom afterward.

“Catholic Schools Week celebrates the hallmarks of Catholic education: faith-focused learning, strong communities and a commitment to service,” said Joanna Barlow, principal. “It’s a time to showcase our strengths and achievements, bringing our school community together in a shared purpose reflecting on our core values and traditions.

“Having Bishop O’Connell is a deeply meaningful experience for our faculty, students and families, allowing us to connect with our faith on a deeper level,” Barlow added. “His visit enables our small school to feel a stronger sense of belonging to the larger Catholic community.”

BISHOP O’CONNELL WELCOMES NEW EXECUTIVE ACTION PROMOTING

PARENTAL CHOICE IN EDUCATION

WASHINGTON •

“The Catholic Church teaches that parents are the primary educators of their children and have both the right and responsibility to direct their child’s education,” said Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Catholic Education. Bishop O’Connell offered the following comments in response to the Executive Order signed by President Donald J. Trump, “Expanding Educational Freedom and Opportunity for Families.”

“I welcome President Trump’s Executive Order, which takes meaningful steps to expand educational freedom for families across the country. This Order rightly recognizes that parents are the primary educators of their children. As the Church proclaimed in Gravissimum Educationis, since parents have given children their life, they are bound by the most serious obligation to educate them and therefore must be recognized as the primary and principal educators of their own children.

“I also applaud the Executive Order’s emphasis on ensuring that Native American families and military families enjoy the benefits of parental choice. Importantly, this order affirms families who seek to choose faith-based educational options. For generations, Catholic schools have enriched America by providing a rigorous education rooted in faith. Our schools are committed to serving all students, regardless of income, and we support policies that ensure families are truly free to choose the educational environment that aligns with their values and meets the needs of their children.”

Catholic K-12 excellence shows kids ‘the vision of life in Jesus Christ,’ says USCCB leader

BY GINA CHRISTIAN  OSV News

Ahead of national Catholic Schools Week 2025 (Jan. 26Feb. 1), OSV News spoke with Mary Pat Donoghue, executive director of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Secretariat of Catholic Education, for her thoughts on the state of Catholic education in the nation.

The secretariat addresses Catholic education, wherever a U.S. Catholic bishop has recognized it as such, in all of its institutional settings.

This interview has been edited for length and clarity.

OSV News: Broadly speaking, how would you describe the state of Catholic schools in the U.S. at this moment in time, especially in the wake of the COVID-19 pandemic?

Donoghue: After the tremendous losses at the beginning of the pandemic, and then the regain of about half of what we lost (in terms of enrollment), we have remained stable. And I think that’s a good sign. It’s a good place to be.

I think we’ve seen over the last decade – but even with more urgency over the last few years – Catholic schools really connecting to their heritage, their mission

and their purpose. That’s a beautiful development. Our Catholic school system as we know it today came into existence in order to counteract a concern that we were losing our young people to the strong Protestantism of public schools during the late 1800s. We have the same urgency today, although (in the face of) a different religion, in a sense: secularism. It’s very pernicious. And just as the bishops resolved back then that there would be a Catholic school in every parish – although not quite realized – we need that same determination to have that on hand today for people now.

The unique mission in Catholic education to transmit the vision of life in Jesus Christ to kids is different from anything they’ll receive anywhere else.

And so the combination of that mission, the recognition that we are the heirs to a 2,000-year beautiful, rich tradition and culture that we’re passing on in our schools – I think those are the things (sparking) reawakening, reimagining and

Continued on 69

Ministrare Non Ministrari

Like its counterparts across the Diocese, Red Bank Catholic High School kicked off Catholic Schools Week 2025 by celebrating their faith during a school wide Mass. Pictured, altar servers and clergy of St. James Parish, Red Bank, make their way across the high school’s gymnasium at the beginning of the CSW Mass. Courtesy photo

Mary Pat Donoghue

Catholic Schools SHOWCASE 2025 SHOWCASE 2025

The Catholic schools of the Diocese were invited to share some of their good news with our readers. The Monitor is happy to feature this special content in honor of Catholic Schools Week 2025.

CHRISTIAN BROTHERS ACADEMY, LINCROFT

Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft, juniors spent some time in prayer, reflection and conversation at San Alfonso Retreat House, Long Branch..

This January, Christian Brothers Academy’s Office of Mission & Ministry completed its first overnight junior retreat. Nearly 50 CBA juniors spent 24 hours at the San Alfonso Retreat House in Long Branch.

Led by Matthew Meehan, CBA’s Director of Mission, the boys spent this time having good conversation, listening to guest speakers and personally reflecting on their time at CBA. Several CBA faculty members accompanied the boys to the retreat house, leading group discussions and helping to challenge the students to gain a deeper understanding of themselves, their peers and God.

Additionally, CBA ran four consecutive days of freshman retreats during Catholic Schools Week. Their theme revolved around “Becoming a Lasallian Man of Virtue” and helped the school’s youngest students gain a better understanding of CBA’s Catholic, Lasallian mission.

DONOVAN CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, TOMS RIVER

Donovan Catholic High School embraced faith, tradition, and commitment to Catholic education during Catholic Schools Week, coming together in prayer, appreciation and service, deepening our connection to Christ and one another. Each day reinforced the values at the heart of the school’s mission.

To celebrate families, the Campus Ministry team hosted a heartwarming Cookies & Gratitude event where students enjoyed a

Donovan Catholic, Toms River, students show the various items they collected to assist the community on both local and national levels.

sweet treat and wrote heartfelt thank-you notes to their families for the priceless gift of a Catholic education.

Students and staff of Donovan Catholic High School and St. Joseph’s Grade School gathered as one community to celebrate St. Joseph Parish, shared faith and tradition with Mass, strengthening bonds in prayer and worship, followed by a spirited Jeopardy competition focused on the Jubilee of Hope!

Student Life hosted a Student Appreciation event in the gym along with an exciting fundraiser gift card raffle. Students also had the chance to explore many club offerings during the school’s Spring Club Fair.

To support the community both locally and nationally, students took part in a fundraiser benefiting California Wildfire Disaster Relief. In addition, they collected hot and cold cereal, along with pancakes and syrup, for St. Joseph’s Food Pantry. They also gathered diapers, wipes, onesies and baby blankets to support Open Door Pregnancy Center.

To show gratitude for the dedicated faculty, staff, and teachers, the National Honor Society hosted a special Appreciation Lunch for the Donovan team.

NOTRE DAME HIGH SCHOOL, LAWRENCEVILLE

Notre Dame High School has introduced six new college partnerships, including guaranteed admissions and generous scholarships with prestigious institutions such as The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C.; University of Scranton, Pa.; St. Joseph’s

University, Philadelphia; Holy Family University, Philadelphia; Assumption University, Worcester, Mass.; and Mount St. Mary’s University, Emmitsburg, Md.

The Office of College and School Counseling is also working on three additional partnerships, with more in development. These collaborations are transformative for our students, providing exceptional access to higher education and helping to reduce the stress often associated with the college application process.

Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville, is proud of its new partnership with six colleges. The partnership provides guaranteed admissions and awarding of scholarships for prospective students.

OUR LADY OF SORROWS SCHOOL, HAMILTON

We were honored to have Bishop O’Connell celebrate our Catholic Schools Week Opening Mass on Jan. 26. The Mass was a wonderful celebration, followed by a successful Open House.

Catholic Schools Week events included Career Day to celebrate community – parents spent the morning with our students sharing their careers, and how important an education is to their success. It was very well received by the parents, students and faculty and a terrific morning.

A fun Family Ice Skating Party was sponsored by the PTA at Mercer County Park. Our Special Person’s Breakfast was a time for each child to have breakfast with a special someone, and everyone enjoyed beginning the morning together. The spelling bee was held for our 5th – 8th graders; two of the three winners were in last year’s CYO event, with one of them winning that event. We are definitely excited and looking forward to the upcoming CYO spelling bee in April.

Our Church Buddy Bingo game saw the older students assisting their church buddies; we had quite a few winners this year! Celebrate our Nation gave some students the opportunity to show their allegiance to our country, and we ended the week with Friday Mass and our Honor Society Induction Ceremony. The PTA was so supportive and creative, and everyone had a wonderful week celebrating our Catholic school!

RED BANK CATHOLIC HIGH SCHOOL, RED BANK

The RBC community celebrated a Catholic Schools Week filled with faith, community, and school spirit. The week opened with a school-wide Mass, bringing students, faculty, and staff together in prayer and reflection, setting the tone for a meaningful celebration. The highlight of the week was a powerful presentation by Gian Paul Gonzalez, whose inspiring message about being “All In!” resonated deeply with everyone. His words challenged students to commit fully – not just in academics and athletics, but in their faith and personal growth.

Msgr. Joseph Rosie, pastor of St. James Parish, Red Bank, administers the Eucharist to Red Bank Catholic High School students during a Catholic Schools Week Mass.

Students participated in special activities and community service projects, reinforcing the values of Catholic education. Many shared how Gian Paul’s message motivated them to approach their goals with greater purpose and dedication. There was a renewed sense of unity and commitment to living out the principles of faith, excellence, and service – ensuring that the spirit of Catholic Schools Week continues long after the celebrations have ended.

SACRED HEART SCHOOL, MOUNT HOLLY

Givingback to our community is a cornerstone of our faith. This past year, Sacred Heart School families embraced this call to service in remarkable ways. We invited families to contribute six hours of their time and talents to support various school events; many families generously exceeded this commitment.

Parent volunteers and their students in Sacred Heart, Mount Holly, enjoy a thankyou lunch during Catholic Schools Week.

Dedicated volunteers helped to beautify our campus, painting hallways, constructing benches for our outdoor classroom, and sprucing up our grounds. Our volunteers have been invaluable partners, contributing to the success of numerous school events, including Catholic Schools Week.

To express our gratitude, we hosted a special luncheon with festive décor and thank you cards for our volunteers during CSW. Volunteers enjoyed a pizza lunch, shared stories, and strengthened the bonds within our school community.

Youngsters from Our Lady of Sorrows School, Hamilton, enjoy a Catholic Schools Week ice skating party hosted by the PTA.

We are truly blessed to have such a generous and dedicated community of volunteers at Sacred Heart School. Their selfless contributions enrich the lives of our students and create a vibrant and supportive learning environment.

ST. ANN SCHOOL, LAWRENCEVILLE

AThe massive wildfires in southern California hit a personal note for the St. Ann School, Lawrenceville, community, as a student was impacted by the devastation. The students, teacher and staff showed their support by collecting items for the fire victims.

mong the many activities at St. Ann School celebrating Catholic Schools Week, our students came together to support the L.A. community and specifically assist victims of the wildfires. This cause is significant as it directly impacts one of our student’s families.

Riley Sawicki, a seventh-grade student whose relatives were affected by the fires, led our Service Society Club in collecting items and assembling toiletry bags for those in need.

ST. BENEDICT SCHOOL, HOLMDEL

In celebration of Catholic Schools Week, St. Benedict School turned the spotlight on alumnae members who have selflessly given back to the community and credit their Catholic School education for their service-related careers.

Alumna Alex McCahill-Boettcher, Class of 2007, visited students in Grades 2-8 and expressed her love of science throughout her SBS years, which eventually led to her career as a registered nurse at NYU. Mrs. McCahill-Boettcher shared her stories of working through COVID and taking care of patients during a pandemic.

During Catholic Schools Week, St. Benedict School, Holmdel, touted their alumni, namely those who have pursued fields that serve the community.

Alumnae Stephanie Pagano-Rubino, Class of 2007, and Ashley Hall, Class of 2006, visited on “Celebrate our Community Day” to share their exciting careers as police officers and the challenges they faced in a male-dominated profession. The most rewarding parts of their professional careers relate to their love of serving others; a value that has been instilled in them since their early childhoods and

further reinforced in a Catholic school environment.

Beyond their incredible service to their communities, the alumnae also showed the close friendships they share to this day. Alex, Stephanie, and Ashley formed early childhood friendships and exchange many fond memories of their days spent at SBS. Catholic Schools Week was an opportunity to showcase and emphasize St. Benedict School’s mission to build “A Foundation for Life” as evidenced by these three incredible young women.

ST. CATHARINE SCHOOL, SPRING LAKE

This year, St. Catharine School launched a new and improved faith-filled curriculum, anchored by the school year’s theme, “Faith First.” This powerful theme both literally and figuratively serves as a guiding principle for students and staff alike.

One of the key elements of the “Faith First” initiative is that each school day begins with religion class. By prioritizing faith from the very start of the day, the school hopes to build a strong sense of community, integrate Catholic values into every lesson, and nurture a spirit of service in their students.

Father Damian McElroy, pastor of St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake, celebrates Mass for the school community during Catholic Schools Week.

In addition to the emphasis on faith, St. Catharine’s has enhanced their curriculum for the academic year. Recently appointed as the new Director of Curriculum, Mrs. Tara Brazinski has been instrumental in implementing new reading and math programs. These updated curricula, from kindergarten through 8th grade, align closely with the school’s mission of fostering academic excellence within the framework of Catholic education.

In keeping with the high standards set by the Diocese, the curriculum is carefully planned to meet educational requirements and monitored by the school’s administration. This revamped approach has already resulted in more engaging learning opportunities for students, enabling them to better grasp key concepts. To further support their academic growth, the administration has also integrated several digital resources to complement classroom instruction. These resources align with the school’s Star testing, offering a data-driven approach to enhance students’ learning experience.

ST. CHARLES BORROMEO SCHOOL, CINNAMINSON

Ahost of engaging and service-based activities filled Catholic Schools Week in St. Charles Borromeo School. We started the week by duct-taping our principal, Mr. Johnson, to the wall as a reward for collecting diapers and deodorant for local outreach organizations. Students collected more than 150 packs of diapers,

more than $300 in cash, and hundreds of sticks of deodorant. All the items and money have been distributed to local outreach organizations that serve adults, teens, and children in Burlington County.

hard-working PTA, the talented volunteering moms and dads, and all of the families that have made the choice to send their children to a school where they can learn and thrive in the Catholic faith. St. James is truly blessed by so many who are motivated by their love of faith and the desire to create an excellent Catholic school.

ST. JEROME SCHOOL, WEST LONG BRANCH

FJeffrey Johnson, principal of St. Charles Borromeo School, Cinnaminson, actively engaged in the school’s various Catholic Schools Week endeavors.

They played Puzzle the Principal, Penny Wars and Minute to Win It, wrote letters to U.S. Service Members, conducted our annual spelling bee, welcomed our special friends and continued our school’s celebration of 60 years of Catholic education. We ended the week with a beautiful celebration of Mass with the parish community led by the student body and school choir before the annual 8th grade versus staff volleyball game.

Staff members rewarded students in classes other than their own for their acts of kindness throughout the week and 8th graders taught a lesson to a younger grade level on Teacher Turnabout Day. The students learned about different vocations on Career Day from an accountant, a priest, a deacon, a musician and a paramedic.

ST. JAMES SCHOOL, RED BANK

At St. James School, Catholic Schools Week began with a special Mass and Open House where students actively participated as readers, greeters and gift bearers, demonstrating their leadership and faith. The successful open house welcomed prospective families to explore the campus, meet teachers and students, and learn more about the school’s programs, with Royal Ambassadors leading the tours.

Daily events included a book fair, science assemblies, rock music concert, classroom door contest, bingo games, spelling bee, spirit day, student appreciation, cereal and cozy blanket donations, “dress to impress,” teacher appreciation, “dress like a teacher” and Basketball Blowout. The activities kept students and teachers alike enthusiastic, giggling, and reflecting on what it means to be part of a great Catholic school.

A preschooler in St. James School, Red Bank, had a chance to take on the role of teacher during a Catholic Schools Week event.

or over 30 years, the St. Jerome School community (students, their parents, faculty and staff) has been dedicating their time and talent to help the residents of Operation Life, a barrier-free, fully accessible housing location created for people with developmental and/or physical disabilities.

None of the success of the school would be possible without the dedicated people who make it a reality every day. St. James School sincerely thanks the administrators who tirelessly lead the schools, the teachers and staff who educate and care for the children daily, the

This community outreach project has continued through the years thanks to school secretary Stella Monteleone and countless parents, students and alumni. Throughout the year, these compassionate volunteers come together to bring joy and warmth to those in need. Each visit includes singing festive songs, engaging in meaningful conversations, and sharing delicious food and refreshments. Additionally, they prepare goodie bags filled with treats to brighten the spirits of those they visit.

Community service is a hallmark event for students in St. Jerome School, West Long Branch.

This ongoing initiative exemplifies a genuine commitment to community service and compassion, making a lasting impact on both the students and the families they support. Currently, 8th grade students and Mrs. Monteleone are gearing up for the Operation Life Valentine Day’s Party.

ST. JOAN OF ARC SCHOOL, MARLTON

Students in St. Joan of Arc School, Marlton, enjoyed having special persons in their lives join them for Mass and a visit to their school.

During Catholic Schools Week St. Joan of Arc students participated in a variety of joyful and faith-filled activities. For a school-wide service project students collected cereal and soup for

In Focus the community food pantry, along with monetary donations for the Archdiocese of L.A. Wildfire Relief Fund.

Students gathered for SJA Bingo, 8th grade and Faculty Volleyball Game, Sports Teams Showcase, and our highlight of the week, Grandparents and Special Persons Day. The day began with the celebration of Mass, for which the church was packed with students and special persons. After Mass, guests enjoyed refreshments by the PTA and were welcomed into students’ classrooms. It was a wonderful day and a perfect way to celebrate CSW highlighting faith, service and the school/parish community.

ST. JOHN VIANNEY HIGH SCHOOL, HOLMDEL

Awas “The Bible Comes Alive.”

Each class chose a Bible story to study and bring to life. Many classes re-enacted their chosen stories through plays, songs, dances and interactive station activities. All 31 classes traveled to other classrooms to experience the Bible in a variety of creative ways, collecting paper Bible charms along the way to create a keepsake ring adorned with Bible verses.

Students involved with Catholic Athletes for Christ in St. John Vianney High School, Holmdel, during a visit to the NJ Veterans Memorial Home in Menlo Park.

s Catholic Athletes for Christ, SJV Lancers serve elderly and disabled veterans at NJ Veterans Memorial Home (Menlo Park) twice a month. Our Cathletes live the Gospel by visiting the sick. They serve those who served, by assisting staff with the planned activities for the day. Bi-weekly, different SJV athletic teams interact with and brighten the days of our beloved veterans. SJV also hosts field trips from the veterans’ home to its campus for athletic events where they are recognized as honorary captains. The Campus Ministry, through Catholic Athletes for Christ, promotes Catholic Identity at SJV by giving back to those who have defended our freedom.

SJV is excited to share its curricular offerings to its newest academy, the Pre-Law Academy, which will begin in September of 2025. This program will offer students a challenging path, dual enrollment and Advanced Placement courses. Students will also have the opportunity to graduate from St. John Vianney High School with twenty-seven college credits and a digital portfolio of projects, videos, and written work. The Pre-Law Academy will give students an opportunity to have real life experience studying business law, criminology and other areas of law, with a culminating capstone experience in their senior year as participants in a mock trial program.

ST. JOSEPH GRADE SCHOOL, TOMS RIVER

St. Joseph Grade School family embraces the call to holiness to know, love and serve Jesus Christ. The school dedicated this Catholic Schools Week to a special theme – and this year, the theme

As part of the celebration, students dressed as saints and shared information about their lives and virtues. The highlight of the week was the Saints Parade, where students proudly showcased their chosen saints throughout the school.

“The Bible Comes Alive” was among the features of Catholic Schools Week events in St. Joseph School, Toms River. Classes had the opportunity to reflect on a story from Scripture and then reenact it by presenting plays, songs, dances and teachings on what they learned.

In the spirit of being the hands and feet of Christ, SJGS held a paid pajama day to support the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia’s National Pajama Day fundraiser. The school is thrilled to donate $1,305 to C.H.O.P. to help provide comfort and care to children in need. Additionally, the school hosted the “SOUP-er” Bowl soup can collection for the St. Joseph Food Pantry. Students voted for the team they believed would win the Super Bowl, all while helping provide meals for families in need.

ST. LEO THE GREAT SCHOOL, LINCROFT

During a Catholic Schools Week Mass celebrated by their pastor, Father John Folchetti, students from St. Leo the Great School, Lincroft, participate in the presentation of the gifts.

St. Leo the Great School joyfully celebrated Catholic Schools Week with a series of events honoring students, teachers and families, beginning with an opening prayer that set a reflective tone for the days ahead.

The school recognized its dedicated faculty for Teacher Appreciation Day with a dress-down day and head and shoulder massages, while the PTA provided a grab-and-go breakfast, followed by a catered lunch in the cafeteria.

Father John T. Folchetti celebrated a special Mass for the entire community as a beautiful reminder of why we celebrate. He spoke

Saint Leo the Great School

about the true purpose of Catholic education – to know, to love, and to serve God in this world and the next. Parents were lauded for their dedication and support of the school and the sacrifices they make. Parents were then invited to visit their child’s classrooms. Students in grades 4-8 showcased their spelling skills in the Scripps Spelling Bee. The event was live streamed to all classrooms, while parents tuned in from home to share in the excitement.

Student Appreciation Day concluded the week, with students dressed in spirit wear and enjoying ice cream. Pre-K students were captivated by a performance from George the Magician, while K-5 students were inspired by Corey the Dribbler, a youth motivational speaker who wowed them with his basketball tricks. Meanwhile, students in grades 6-8 had a blast with the Game Bus experience. The 8th graders capped off the celebration with a lively game of Family Feud.

ST. MARY ACADEMY, MANAHAWKIN

Focusing on the Jubilee Year theme of hope and peace in January, St. Mary Academy kicked off Catholic Schools Week by having the students show gratitude for the Armed Forces/Law Enforcement for serving as its guardians of peace. Not only did they create a petition for peace in the Universal Prayer at our CSW Mass, but the students also created and wrote thank you cards to those currently serving. The week was filled with fun activities that included a Student

 STEAM Curriculum Pre-K–8th Grade

 Back to Back U.S. Department of Education

National Blue Ribbon School of Excellence

 School Wide Character Development Program

 State of the Art STEAM Wing

 STEAM Curriculum Preschool - 8th Grade

 Microsoft Tablets Provided for all Fifth through Eighth Grade Students

 Positivity Project Character Development Program

 3 and 5 Day Academic 4 Year Old Pre-K Program

 Microsoft Tablets Provided for All Middle School Students

 Extended Day and After School Care Available

 Full Day Kindergarten 2, 3, and 5-day Preschool for 3 and 4 year olds

Extended Day and Afterschool Care Available

Lizanne Coyne, principal, and students from St. Mary Academy, Manahawkin, enjoy many of the Catholic Schools Week activities.

Showcase, the 6th Annual PreK-K Prom, Middle School Movie Day (6th-8th), Middle Grades Social (1st-5th) the Annual 8th Grade versus Faculty Volleyball Match up and Pep Rally, and closed with a Spaghetti Dinner and Social. Throughout the week, the PTA supported these activities with great treats.

The students and faculty at St. Mary Academy look forward to Catholic Schools Week each year and the opportunity to celebrate our Catholic education and each other, fostering a sense of unity and pride.

ST. MARY OF THE LAKES SCHOOL, MEDFORD

Honoring first responders was a Catholic Schools Week highlight in St. Mary of the Lakes School, Medford. Here students stand in front of a helicopter that was flown in by a Coast Guard member.

St. Mary of the Lakes School spent Catholic Schools Week creating memorable moments. A day of service celebrated the community, with students writing letters to the homebound, making cards for first responders and making sandwiches for Cathedral Kitchen. Students were celebrated with a special movie viewing and popcorn.

To celebrate the nation, the school had a First Responders Parade and the Coast Guard landed a helicopter on the front lawn followed by a Q & A with 8th grade. Vocations were highlighted with a visit from Sister Laura Downing from Immaculate Heart of Mary. She spoke to younger grades and to the girls in 3rd-8th grades while Father Kevin met with the boys in 3rd-8th grade. A pep rally closed out the celebratory week.

ST. MARY SCHOOL, MIDDLETOWN

St. Mary School has embraced a Catholic Classical Liberal Arts educational philosophy, leading to a profound cultural shift within the school community. This model prioritizes intellectual depth,

spiritual formation, and moral character, shaping students to seek truth, beauty, and goodness. The classical model also places a strong emphasis on the arts and creativity. Education at St. Mary School is not solely about academics; it’s about nurturing students’ hearts and souls.

“We’re not just preparing students for tests or careers; we’re preparing them for life in its fullest sense,” says Father Jeff Kegley, director of St. Mary School and pastor of St. Mary Parish. “The Catholic Classical Liberal Arts philosophy reconnects students with the essence of learning, where faith and reason are partners in discovering God’s creation.”

Father Jeffrey Kegley, pastor of St. Mary Parish, Middletown, and Craig Palmer, principal of the school, join current students for a photo following Mass. The school prides in providing a Classical Catholic Education.

At the heart of this transformation is the integrated nature of classical education, which views all subjects as interconnected pieces of a greater whole. Subjects such as logic, rhetoric, theology, and the Great Books are woven together to create a cohesive curriculum that emphasizes critical thinking and holistic understanding.

“Our goal is to teach students to think, question, and understand the world deeply and meaningfully,” notes Craig Palmer, principal. “We want them to see the connections between subjects, and ultimately, how all knowledge reflects God’s wisdom and truth.”

ST. PAUL SCHOOL, BURLINGTON

Faculty and students enjoy a themed dress-down day in St. Paul School, Burlington, during Catholic Schools Week.

To celebrate the community during Catholic Schools Week, St. Paul students wore neon accessories and wrote letters expressing their gratitude to different community organizations.

Teacher chose a dress-down theme for their students on the day set aside for celebrating staff; each classroom represented a different theme and dressed the part. The school celebrated the teachers and staff with a lovely luncheon, and they received a gift in their mailboxes.

Students wore pajamas and staff wore spirit wear for a day focused on celebrating students and donated $5 to the Children’s Hospital of Philadelphia. The annual pep rally kicked off with an exciting exhibition basketball game, energized by our spirited cheerleaders

and lion mascot. The fun continued as 8th grade students took on the staff in a thrilling volleyball match, making for a memorable day of school spirit and friendly competition.

To celebrate vocations, all students dressed as their envisioned future vocation. Bob Kelly from Fox29 News visited to view the Catholic Schools Week activities, which included Penny Wars and a friendly staff Mario Brothers race.

The Catholic Schools Week Special Persons Mass celebrated families, followed by an early dismissal so students could leave with their special person to have lunch with them.

ST. PAUL SCHOOL, PRINCETON

The Sunday Open House launched Catholic Schools Week by welcoming many prospective families for tours. The following day students were blessed to attend a school-wide Mass celebrated by Bishop O’Connell, followed by his visits to several classrooms, where he spent time with our students. Throughout the week, students enjoyed a variety of activities that highlighted the spirit of Catholic education.

Father Christopher Dayton, pastor of St. Paul Parish, Princeton, poses with two students during the Catholic Schools Week Vocations Day celebration.

Student/Teacher Swap Dress Day brought laughter and fun as students and teachers switched wardrobes for the day. Religion/USA Bingo, broadcast live from the library by our Student Council, kept everyone engaged and learning. Career Day inspired students to dream big as parents visited to share about their professional lives, truly emphasizing the “bright” futures ahead. Jersey Day gave students a chance to dress down and show off their favorite teams. Vocations Day allowed St. Paul clergy to visit classrooms and speak about the beauty of answering God’s call. The annual pep rally on Friday brought the whole school together in celebration, capping off a week of excitement – including the much-anticipated conclusion of the Rock Paper Scissors tournament!

Service is always at the heart of Catholic Schools Week, and St. Paul students lived out their faith through acts of kindness. They created placemats for Loaves & Fishes, delivered treats to school neighbors (thanks to the PTA!), and wrote letters of appreciation to local first responders. They also ran a week-long cereal drive, collecting 815 boxes for Mt. Carmel Guild to help those in need.

ST. PETER SCHOOL, POINT PLEASANT BEACH

At St. Peter School, the excitement of discovery comes to life in the new Living Science Lab, where science and faith converge to

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St. Peter School, Point Pleasant Beach, students receive animal and plantbased lessons in the school’s new Living Science Lab.

form a dynamic, hands-on learning environment.

Guided by dedicated science teacher, Andrea Langella, students discover the beauty of God’s creation through the care of animals, including two bearded dragons, a gecko, a bunny, a guinea pig, a turtle, a bird, and fish. Caring for these animals isn’t just about feeding and cleaning; it’s about nurturing respect for life, showing reverence for God’s creatures, and taking responsibility for their well-being. These lessons extend beyond the animals, teaching students to approach all living things with compassion and care, which are foundational to our Catholic values and the teachings at St. Peter School. Through these experiences, students not only grow in their understanding of science but also in their understanding of their role in the world as stewards of creation.

In addition to the animal- and plant-based lessons, St. Peter’s students utilize Discover Ed kits to enrich their scientific exploration. These kits are designed to support hands-on experiments and laboratory activities that expand upon their classroom science curriculum. Each kit provides a new element of discovery that makes science come alive.

In the Living Science Lab, science becomes a pathway to living out the core values of St. Peter School – respect, reverence, and responsibility – while encouraging students to build a stronger connection to their faith and the world around them.

ST. RAPHAEL SCHOOL, HAMILTON

Torder, the Sisters of St. Francis. In her touching letter, Sister Mary recounted her own experiences with devotion to the saint; her words, which accompany a cherished relic of St. Marianne, highlighted the enduring legacy of service and love that the saint exemplified in her life, especially in her work with the marginalized in Hawaii.

The entire community is immensely proud of the 8th graders for honoring this remarkable saint and the values she represents. Through this celebration, the school continues to embrace their Catholic heritage and inspire one another to live out the Gospel each day. St. Raphael’s expresses deep gratitude for Mrs. Stokes, whose passion as a music teacher and embodiment of Catholic values enrich and bless the school community every day.

ST. ROSE GRAMMAR SCHOOL, BELMAR

During Catholic Schools Week, our 8th grade students hosted a school-wide Pep Rally, a time-honored tradition at St. Rose. The students prepare for weeks under the guidance of their teachers, Mrs. Colleen Reilly and Mrs. Laura Urspruch, practicing their leadership and public speaking skills announcing the games, tributes to the sports teams and their accomplishments, engaging the audience, and talking about the blessings of a Catholic education.

“Celebrating the Nation” was among the most enjoyed Catholic Schools Week activities in St. Rose Grammar School, Belmar.

St. Raphael School, Hamilton, eighth graders gather for a photo during Catholic Schools Week. A highlight for the students was learning about the life of St. Marianne Cope.

he 8th graders at St Raphael’s brought history and faith to life with a recent, heartfelt presentation on the life of St. Marianne Cope. Under the direction of music teacher Julianne Stokes – who has a deep personal devotion to Mother Marianne – the students shared inspiring stories of the saint’s unwavering compassion, dedication, and trust in God’s plan. Mrs. Stokes’ commitment to living out St. Marianne’s values is evident through all her work, and her devotion serves as a model for the St. Raphael’s community.

The school also received a testimonial through Mrs. Stokes from Sister Mary Nobis, a respected member of St. Marianne’s religious

Using the theme for that day, “Celebrating the Nation,” the theme of the pep rally was Red, White and Blue. The hosts certainly looked the part! During the rally, each grade was able to perform a song or play a game for the entire school to watch, and the excitement and energy in the gym throughout the morning was contagious. The last game of the day was a basketball knockout game with the 8th graders, teachers and staff. This year, principal Kevin Donahue was the last man standing! The pep rally is one of the school’s favorite ways to celebrate Catholic Schools Week as an entire school community – cheering each other on, singing, dancing, laughing and enjoying all of the gifts with which St. Rose Grammar School has blessed them.

ST. ROSE HIGH SCHOOL, BELMAR

This year, St. Rose High School and St. Rose Grammar School had the incredible opportunity to unite as one community, wrapping up Catholic Schools Week with a beautiful gathering that embodied the spirit of faith, fellowship, and family.

From Pre-K through 12th grade, students stood side by side, a powerful reminder that St. Rose is more than just a school – it is a family. This unity is at the heart of its mission that extends beyond the classroom and into the lives of students as they grow into faithfilled leaders of tomorrow.

Belmar’s St. Rose High School and St. Rose Grammar School students gather for a Mass during Catholic School’s Week.

At St. Rose, Catholic education is built upon a foundation of faith, service, and academic excellence, instilling in students the importance of community and discipleship. Coming together with the grammar school reflected this, as older students set an example of leadership while younger students were uplifted by the encouragement and support of their high school mentors.

This celebration was a testament to the strength and unity of the St. Rose community. As they continue their journey in Catholic education, they are reminded that faith binds them together, shaping the next generation of disciples who will go forth to serve, lead, and inspire.

VILLA VICTORIA ACADEMY, EWING

Villa Victoria Academy is pleased to announce that a group of Middle School and High School students will be singing at three locations in Rome during Easter week.

The Villa Victoria Select Concert Choir is an ensemble of students from grades 6-12, who have auditioned for the Junior and Senior Choruses, Middle and High School Honors Choirs, and High School A Capella group.

Shown are members of the Select Concert Choir in Villa Victoria Academy, Ewing, who are preparing to sing at three locations during an Easter Week visit to Rome.

Members of this choir have sung in biannual school concerts, and various local community events such as the Ewing Veteran’s Day Memorial Service and Trenton Thunder baseball games.

The Select Concert Choir will be performing in three recitals in the city of Rome the week of April 21-28, 2025. A group of Villa alumnae, parents, and teachers will accompany these 18 students. The Villa girls will be performing a variety of songs such as “Ave Verum,” “Festival Canticle” and “The Lord Bless You and Keep You.”

Directing the Select Concert Choir on this international trip is Ms. Olivia Quinn, a proud graduate of VVA and Temple University. She currently works as an administrative assistant and additionally runs her own private music studio, where she gives vocal and piano instruction. Last spring, she directed two of Villa’s extracurricular choirs and musically directed their spring musical.

The group will be touring Italy and visiting historic and religious sites in Pisa, Pompeii, Siena, Florence and Rome. The choir also plans to meet up with the Rome-based Religious Teachers Filippini, the order that has owned and operated Villa Victoria Academy since 1933.

SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS SPORTS

BY RICH FISHER  Contributing Editor:

 Talent, faith and chemistry have St. Rose girls basketball team humming along

 SJV’s Karpell named East head coach for prestigious McDonald’s AllAmerican Game

 Krompholz battles, prays through pain to aid Griffins girls swim team

 Faith, desire has led RBC grad and Notre Dame senior Kevin Bauman to CFP national title game

 St. John Vianney wrestling team is looking better than ever

Go to TrentonMonitor.com and click on NEWS>SPORTS.

Bank Catholic graduate Kevin Bauman, 84, takes the field against Georgia Tech on Oct. 19 at Mercedes Benz Stadium in Atlanta – the same stadium in which the Irish will battle Ohio State for the National Championship Jan. 20.

Red

Photo courtesy of Notre Dame Athletics/Jeffrey Myers



Rev. Mr. Alan Bridges carries the monstrance containing the Blessed Sacrament during Eucharistic Adoration. Matt

photo

Diocesan Youth Conference encourages journey of hope with God

BY ELISE STANKUS and KAYLA LATENDRESSE  Correspondents

ANotre Dame High School in Lawrenceville Feb. 1.

The day began with an informal gathering in the school’s gymnasium, where Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., greeted and took pictures with students while a DJ played pop music in the center of the gym, which acted as a dance floor.

A live band playing worship music greeted students from the stage as they moved into the auditorium. Dan Waddington, director of the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, acted as the emcee, welcoming students to the annual event.

Because Bishop O’Connell had to leave early for other commitments, he addressed the students via a pre-recorded video, in which he explained Pope Francis’ designation of this year as a Jubilee Year, and additionally as the “Jubilee of Hope.”

‘HOPE IS THE REASON’

From the twin monitors on either side of the stage, Bishop O’Connell spoke of the importance of hope in the lives of young people walking with God.

bishop, a hip-hop artist and a series of speakers gave teens a special message of hope for their life’s journey – a theme that coincided with the Jubilee Year.

“What if we looked at our whole lives as a journey, walking with God?” asked Brandon Morel, keynote speaker for this year’s Diocesan Youth Conference at

“Hope is the reason for the journey. Hope is the goal of the journey, of our faith. Where there is hope, there is life. ... Hope was the reason for Jesus’ journey to us.”

At the conclusion of the Bishop’s message, Waddington prayed, connecting the theme of this year’s conference, “The Journey,” with the Jubilee theme of

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Marzorati

A DYC participant listens intently during one of the many group keynote addresses. Matt Marzorati photo

“Even if you’re not going to have maybe a full conversation with God, he’s always there listening. Keep connecting with him, it can be as little as ‘Good morning’ to Him or ‘Goodnight.’”

“To spread positivity because through the opening of all these ‘Boxes of Joy,’ it made me realize that there are kids less fortunate, and we have to pray for them. Not all of them get to have that Christmas tree and gifts under them. We have to spread that positivity and help the community.”

JULIANA, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Maple Shade

GIANCARLO, St. Paul Parish, Princeton

Nearly 900 young people gathered for the 2025 Diocesan Youth Conference in Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville. Rose O’Connor photo

A Salesian Sister speaks to teens, accompanied by a panel of their peers, during one of the breakout sessions. Matt Marzorati photo

Various activities, including dancing, gave young people an opportunity to engage with one another during DYC. Matt Marzorati photo

Young Catholics

Continued from 32

“Pilgrims of Hope.”

“Help us to go on a journey today that leads us closer to you,” he prayed, his hands outstretched over the hundreds of middle- and high-schoolers in the auditorium.

Morel, a Brooklyn-based youth minister and Catholic hip-hop artist, took the stage amid music and strobe lights. Opening with a rap piece, Morel shared an original song, gave his personal testimony, and explored a Scripture reading from Isaiah, through the analogy of running with a personal trainer.

Students then split up into three groups, going to lunch, a service project, and a “Tools for the Journey” workshop run by Sister Guerline Joseph, a Salesian Sister of St. John Bosco and the Associate Director for the Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry for the Archdiocese of Newark. A panel of five young adults, including three high school students and one seminarian, answered questions about the struggles and joys of being a young Catholic in today’s world.

“It’s not always popular to live your faith, so that can be a challenge,” shared

Jake Snyder, a seminarian at St. Charles Borromeo Seminary in Ambler, Pa., north of Philadelphia.

In the cafeteria, students put together more than 400 gift boxes as a service project benefiting Box of Joy, an organization that provides Christmas gifts for children in developing countries.

SEEKING A MIRACLE

Another keynoter, Laura Williams, shared her life story and testimony, journey to God, and discovery of God’s purpose for her life, then sang for participants.

Williams described the current years as “building block years” for the teens in the audience. These years encompass learning to socialize and discover a sense of self and self-worth, and that is why it is essential to know Jesus, she explained.

“Don’t let anybody underestimate you or invalidate you because you’re young,” Williams said.

She said she was bullied as a youngster. She was homeschooled for a couple of years, and when she returned to school she felt like she had found her true self; but then her family moved. Williams asked God why this was happening to her after all she had gone through. Then, in her new school, a false rumor began about her, and she entered into a state of depression and Continued on 36

“I really liked Brandon’s speech, how he incorporated running into it.”

KATIE, Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle

“My favorite part was the really good band, the dancing, and the games.”

SABRINA, St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton

“Turning to God in key moments in your life, in any situation at all. It’s key to not take it out on someone else, but turn to God and pray and hope that God can change your life in another way.”

DENNYS, St. Paul Parish, Princeton

Bishop O’Connell was interviewed by Lou, a DYC participant and Notre Dame student, for a video clip that will be produced for the diocesan website as well as for TrentonMonitor.com.

Rose O’Connor photo

A large banner featuring the DYC theme was displayed in the entry way of Notre Dame High School. Matt Marzorati photo

“I liked the part in the auditorium”

REEGAN, Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle

temporarily lost her relationship with God until she met a girl named Lizzy –who radiated Jesus in every way possible.

Williams began to enter on her path back to Christ with Lizzy’s help. She entered into another battle with an eating disorder during COVID-19.

“I was asking God for a miracle,” she said.

Slowly she began to change her life, turn to Jesus, and seek to understand Him through reading the Bible, and she realized the way she was living was not God’s plan. Jesus was healing her behind the scenes and changing her heart – leading her to recovery, she said.

In college, her passion for music led her to be discovered by an agency that developed her into a Christian music artist. She had the chance to sing on The Voice, reconnect with Lizzy, and begin writing and publishing her music.

“That grapple, God can handle it. God wants you to go to Him in your pain … there’s nothing that is too big for God,” Williams said. “Everything is connected.”

LEARNING TO TURN TO GOD

The day concluded with Eucharistic Adoration, led by Father Chris Colavito, diocesan vocation director, followed by Mass.

Dennys Barrios of St. Paul Parish, Princeton, said he came away from the

“Having mostly hope. Most of the things we have been doing were about hope.

Like the beginning part with everyone in the auditorium, we were talking about Pope Francis’ statement about ‘The Jubilee Year of Hope’ and these ‘Boxes of Joy’ are giving joy to children who don’t have a lot of hope … it’s giving them something to look forward to every year.”

URIEL, St. Paul Parish, Princeton

“It’s a great thing to set up every year. The work that goes into it is incredible. You really feel like you’re together with everybody.”

SOPHIA, St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton

“No matter who you are, you are always welcome somewhere. That is my key takeaway.”

PEYTON, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Maple Shade

conference reinforced to turn to God “in key moments in your life, in any situation at all; it’s key to not take it out on someone else, but turn to God and pray and hope that God can change your life in another way – somehow resolve or work on the problems.”

Julianna Sumption, who attends Maple Shade High School and Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Maple Shade, learned the importance of prayer – even simple prayer.

“Even if you’re not going to have maybe a full conversation with God, He’s always there listening. Keep connecting with Him, it can be as little as ‘Good morning’ to Him or ‘Good night.’”

Continued from 34

Brandon Morel shares his experiences of faith during his keynote address.

Matt Marzorati photos

A young person packages goods as part of a service project to benefit the Box of Joy program.

Schools leave lasting impression

St. Benedict.

“Seeing my mom as a teacher and the impact she had on students always amazed me,” Gallagher said. “I was always in awe of what she did in her teaching career, and it inspired me to become a teacher in the hopes that I would leave an impression on children the way she did.”

John Gallagher, a freshman at Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft, said he appreciated the opportunity to attend St. Benedict School because of his “special connection with the school and having many family members who attended.”

Matthew Gallagher added, “I never met my grandma, but we still have teachers at SBS who knew and worked with her and tell me how great she was and how my mom reminds them of her.

“I hope my children one day can go to SBS too and continue the legacy,” Matthew said.

Guidelines for Lenten penitential season

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

During the days and weeks of penance that lie ahead — from Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025, until Holy Thursday morning, April 17, 2025 — the Catholic Church throughout the world commemorates the penitential season of Lent ending with the Sacred Triduum of Holy Week. The model Jesus gave us for “these 40 days” was his own experience in the desert and the temptations that followed him there where he encountered Satan face to face. And yet, Jesus, there in the desert – alone, fasting and in intense prayer –beat back the devil and triumphed over temptation, as strong and as unrelenting as it was throughout those 40 days.

We enter the desert of Lent like Jesus, led by the Holy Spirit, to face our devils, our temptations head on. But we are not alone. The Lord Jesus Christ is with us. And so, too, is the Church, the entire community of faith observing Lent. Here is what the Catholic Church in the United States requires of us as baptized Catholics:

jeopardize their health by fasting.

3. Those between the ages of 18 and 59 are obliged to FAST (only one full meal) as noted above. From the age of 14, people are also obliged to ABSTAIN: this obligation prohibits the eating of meat, but not eggs, milk products or condiments of any kind, even though made from animal fat.

1. The days of FAST (only one full meal) and ABSTINENCE (no meat) are Ash Wednesday and Good Friday. No dispensations are granted on these solemn days except for reason of sickness or those provided in canon law below. ALL OTHER FRIDAYS OF LENT are days of ABSTINENCE.

The pastor of a parish has the faculty to give a dispensation to individual parishioners in his parish and the Diocesan Bishop alone has the authority to dispense groups of Catholics but only for a serious reason.

2. Those who are automatically dispensed from fast and abstinence regulations outside the age limits noted below include: the physically or mentally ill, especially individuals suffering from chronic illnesses such as diabetes. Also included in the dispensation are women who are pregnant or nursing. In all cases, common sense should prevail, and ill persons should not further

NB FOR PASTORS:

1. Ashes should be distributed in an appropriate liturgical manner on Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025. “Drive-thru” distribution and self-imposition of ashes (leaving ashes in Church for people to impose on themselves) are prohibited.

2. Please instruct your parishioners concerning these Lenten Regulations in your homily, announcements, bulletins, or websites/ social media on the weekends of February 22-23, March 1-2, or earlier if you prefer.

4. The obligation to observe the laws of fast and abstinence is a serious one for Catholics. Failure to observe one penitential day in itself is not considered a serious sin. It is the intentional failure to observe any penitential days at all, or a substantial number of penitential days, that must be considered a serious matter.

5. The obligation, the privilege really, of receiving the Eucharist at least once a year – often called “Easter duty” – for those in the state of grace should still be fulfilled during the period from the First Sunday of Lent, March 8-9, 2025, to Trinity Sunday, June 14-15, 2025. However, the Church’s law does permit this precept to be fulfilled at another time during the year when there is a just cause.

I want to encourage all Catholics, especially those who are conscious of serious sin, to go to Confession and to make use of the sacrifices and traditions that have always been part of our Lenten practices in the Church.

We do, indeed, fast and pray with the Lord Jesus and with our fellow Catholics. May this Lent be a time of Penance leading to grace and joy for us all at Easter.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend David M. O’Connell, C.M. Bishop of Trenton

3. The Rite of Election is March 9, 2025, at 3:00 pm in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral. Catechumens are required to attend unless excused by the Bishop at the request of the pastor.

4. General Absolution: General Absolution is NOT permitted in the Diocese of Trenton without the Bishop’s permission in accordance with the provisions of canon law. Encourage individual Confessions during Lent. Priests may contact me if there is a concern.

5. The Easter Vigil is not to be celebrated before dark, that is, not before sunset (7:30 pm EST).

Sacred Heart, Bay Head. File photo

Drawing on theological virtues to live out prayer, fasting, almsgiving of Lent

TA

message for Lent 2025 from

BISHOP

DAVID M. O’CONNELL, C.M.

he season of Lent begins on Ash Wednesday, March 5, 2025. Christians make this Jubilee Lenten “journey to Jerusalem” with our Lord Jesus Christ as “pilgrims of hope,” renewing our faith, hope and love. Such Lenten renewal invites us to “fasting, prayer and almsgiving,” three traditional Lenten paths to spiritual conversion of mind and heart.

As your Shepherd, I humbly offer you some simple thoughts for Lent.

 Pray more ... sacrifice ... care.

ON FAITH, HOPE AND LOVE.

FAITH. The Letter to the Hebrews gives us a profound description of faith: “confident assurance concerning what we hope for and conviction about things we cannot see (Hebrews 11:1).” Confidence and hope! Let’s make that disposition of faith and hope our own this Lent, especially as we celebrate the 2025 Jubilee Year.

HOPE. St. Paul wrote to the Ephesians: “I pray that the eyes of your heart may be enlightened in order that you may know the hope to which he has called you, the riches of his glorious inheritance in his holy people (Ephesians 1:18).” Let’s open the “eyes of our heart” this Lent through hope to see beyond the limits of this world to the glories that are ours in Christ and share that vision with one another. “Hope does not

disappoint (Romans 5:5).”

LOVE. Our Lord’s greatest command was/is that we “love one another.” This Lent, let’s remind ourselves “greater love than this no one has, than to lay down one’s life for his/her friends (John 15:13).” Let’s be willing to sacrifice for others.

ON FASTING, PRAYER AND ALMSGIVING.

FASTING. 800 years before Christ, the prophet Isaiah proclaimed, “fasting will lose the bonds of wickedness, undo the heavy burdens, let the oppressed go free and break every yoke (Isaiah 58:6).” This Lent, let our fasting create the empty space in our lives that only Christ can fill.

PRAYER. No moments in my life are as important as those I spend with the Lord. Whether alone before the Lord ever-present in the Blessed Sacrament in the silence of my little chapel or in a parish church; whether quietly enjoying the beauties of nature and God’s creation; whether reciting the Rosary or reading the Word of God; whether celebrating Mass or praying with others, my prayer is fundamentally an act of faith in and thanksgiving for the presence of God in my life and in my world. This Lent let’s give God more time to speak to us and give ourselves more time to listen, as the recent Synod has encouraged us.

ALMSGIVING. The old saying rings true: “don’t tell me that you love me, show me.” This Lent let’s make a real, concerted effort to show our love for God by sharing our love for others. Give up something. Give something. Put your faith and hope into loving action for others, especially those most in need.

Spiritual writer, Catholic social worker and foundress of “Madonna House,” Catherine de Hueck Doherty (1896-1985) wrote, “Lent is a time of going very deeply into ourselves... What

is it that stands between us and God? Between us and our brothers and sisters? Between us and life, the life of the Spirit? Whatever it is, let us relentlessly tear it out, without a moment’s hesitation.”

As Bishop of the Diocese of Trenton, permit me to suggest three things for you to consider this Lent:

First, pray more and pray more deeply. Don’t make excuses. You can do it, anytime, anywhere … every time everywhere. Start by calling to mind God’s presence.

Second, sacrifice. Lent is a season of penance. Let it hurt a little in reparation and amendment for sin. As Archbishop Fulton Sheen used to say, “If there is no Good Friday in your life, there can be no Easter Sunday!”

Third, care. Let someone else know they matter. Show genuine kindness as part of your Lenten resolutions.

Let me conclude with a prayer of Catholic spiritual writer Henri Nouwen (1932-1996): “O Lord, make this Lenten season different from the other ones. Let me find you again. Amen.”

Monitor file photo

The future of women’s health care: Trusting pregnancy centers to meet women’s need

BY SUSAN BANE  OSV News

“Icameto Choices Women’s Center because I was building my exit plan.”

Those were my patient’s words, and that exit plan included leaving her marriage and possibly ending the life of her child. As she said, “I was 100% considering aborting my baby.”

Pregnancy centers are essential in the landscape of women’s health care, providing access to compassionate, high-quality, life-affirming care for women just like this patient.

As a board-certified obstetrician and gynecologist and medical director of four pregnancy centers in North Carolina, my medical practice specializes in the care of women with unplanned pregnancies. I witness firsthand the critical role these four centers and those across this country play in saving lives – both of women and their unborn children.

Pregnancy centers offer exceptional care in state-of-the-art environments –an alternative to facilities focused solely on induced abortion. Patients are seen by a highly qualified team of licensed and board-certified health care professionals.

Data from a Charlotte Lozier Institute (CLI) survey of 2,750 pregnancy centers in the United States demonstrated in their 2022 Hope for a New Generation Report that 16 million client/patient visits occurred at no charge, both in-person and through tele-health in 2021.

Women and their families received services and goods valued at $358 million dollars, including appointments with health care professionals, pregnancy tests, ultrasounds, parenting education programs, material goods and much more. Ninety-seven percent of the women served reported a positive

For more information on agencies serving in and around the Diocese of Trenton, visit: dioceseoftrenton.org/ pregnancy-resources experience.

Pregnancy centers recognize that the purpose of medicine is health, healing and wholeness – and thus the direct and intentional killing of one of our fetal patients is not health care. Our approach aligns with the majority of obstetrician/ gynecologists who do not perform induced abortions as part of their medical practice.

There is, however, a critical need to educate the public and rebuild trust in pregnancy centers that have been intentionally attacked by medical organizations that have become an openly partisan wing of the abortion lobby.

What’s more, The American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG) works to advance extreme abortion policies with no limits or barriers – even releasing briefs to both their membership and the public that discredit our medical services and state that pregnancy centers “operate unethically.” They have lost sight of their mission to care for both maternal and fetal patients.

If ACOG truly cared for women, they might encourage health care professionals to refer patients to pregnancy

centers and stop misleading women who need care, thus denying them services that can often be provided the same day and at no charge.

I have seen the progress made when we fill in the gaps of care. At pregnancy centers, we bring case workers into our centers to aid pregnant women and girls. Sixty percent of women say that they would not have sought abortions if their life circumstances were different.

We serve as a lifeline for vulnerable women to access better health care and address disparities such as lack of housing, childcare, food, clothing, insurance and transportation. We partner with hospital systems, health departments, private practices and other nonprofits to create a network of care that ensures no woman is left behind. In short – we provide more viable options for women than the local abortion facility.

The future of women’s health care lies in building trust and expanding the reach of our centers. I encourage my physician colleagues to consider working with pregnancy centers to reach underserved patients. I also want to encourage the millions of women who have received exceptional health care at pregnancy centers to let your stories be heard.

Dr. Susan Bane is a practicing OB/ GYN with 25 years of experience and the founder of Dr. Pink Glasses. She serves on the board of The American Association of Pro-life Obstetricians and Gynecologists and the medical board for CareNet.

Freepik photo

NJCC alert: NJ nonpublic schools deserve full-time nurses too

BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

Nursing services in New Jersey nonpublic schools are not guaranteed, thanks to budgetary language, lack of available candidates and underfunding. To that end, an Action Alert has been issued by the New Jersey Catholic Conference, the public policy arm of the bishops of New Jersey, to encourage concerned residents to advocate for increased funding.

“We are asking for a $20 per-pupil increase to $150,” said Dr. George V. Corwell, director of the NJCC Office of Education. “This increase will go a long way to help us reach our ultimate goal to have a full-time nurse in every school.”

Gov. Phil Murphy is scheduled to give his FY 2026 Budget Address on Feb. 25. The NJCC hopes through its Action Alert to give parents an opportunity to voice their desire to have a full-time, state-funded nurse in every school, including New Jersey Catholic schools. Parents are also encouraged to attend the state legislature’s budgetary hearings between now and May, before the budget is approved in June.

 “... our ultimate goal [is] to have a full-time nurse in every school.”

The current per-pupil allotment of $130 has not kept up with additional legislative requirements of school nurses, say NJCC representatives. These requirements – administration of certain medications and a nurse’s role as a first responder in school emergencies – have made it “increasingly difficult for nursing services providers to find candidates for these positions, with the result that a

portion of the allocation gets returned to the state,” the NJCC Action Alert notes.

The additional $20 per pupil would help cover the increased cost of nurses’ salaries and equipment – a contributing factor to the shortage of available candidates because providers are unable to pay enough at the current amount. In contrast, public schools receive a combination of state funding which permits the presence of a nurse in the public school building during the time that school is in session.

“Our efforts to extend the amount available for nursing services is also hampered by the Department of Education’s requirement that an RN (registered nurse) be used,” the NJCC’s talking points explain, “when the duties for nonpublic nurses … indicates that the presence of an LPN (licensed practical nurse) would be sufficient. There is a significant difference between the hourly

rate charged by providers for an RN as opposed to an LPN.”

For the first time in the state’s 2024 budget, Murphy set aside $10.8 billion to fully fund the School Funding Reform Act, which gives underfunded districts financial support on top of local taxes –an $832 million increase from the prior year. The budget also included $109 million for the state’s universal pre-K program. NJCC representatives believe “that this effort represents an important point that should be stressed when making the appropriate ‘ask’ for nonpublic schools” when it comes to nursing services.”

To contact Gov. Murphy about increasing the nursing budget, call 609-292-6000 or visit NJCatholic.org and click on Take Action Now.

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Bishop O’Connell and priests of the Diocese concelebrate the Standing Together for Life Mass. Mike Ehrmann photos

‘PREEMINENT PRIORITY’

A parishioner fervently prays during the Mass.

The EXPO that followed the Mass featured an array of exhibits with information and resources on pro-life efforts and ministries.

Bishop, faithful stand together, give thanks for gift of all human life

BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

“We’re here to pray for more babies.”

That is the simple and joyful reason that John Caliguire told his three-year-old daughter, Lydia, about why they were attending a Mass for Life Mass Jan. 24. Her bright smile affirmed she was happy to be there.

“This is a big event,” one that is striving to create a culture of life and building up the pro-life movement, Caliguire said of the Diocese’s third annual Standing Together for Life Mass, an initiative that was inaugurated in 2023 following the June 2022 overturn of Roe v. Wade.

“We’re blessed to be here today.”

The Caliguires were among the hundreds of Catholics and other pro-life advocates from around the Diocese who attended the Mass for Life celebrated in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., with more than a dozen priests concelebrating. Those unable to attend the Mass in-person were able to view a livestream on the diocesan Youtube channel.

“Today, as a Diocese, we celebrate a Mass of giving thanks to God for the gift of human life,” Bishop O’Connell said in his homily.

 “We should give thanks to God together ... for this gift of life.”

“One need not be a Catholic to express that intention of gratitude. But one cannot, however, be a Catholic without that sentiment rooted deep in our souls.”

Reflecting how, in the First Reading, the prophet Isaiah proclaimed, “before birth the Lord called me, from my mother’s womb he gave me my name,” Bishop O’Connell said, “That is truth. We should give thanks to God together for this truth, for this gift of life. Giving thanks to God for the gift of human life is the humble disposition, the truth that joins us together today in prayer. It should be our prayer every day.”

The Bishop said that while, as Catholics, “we stand together for life,” there are people who identify as being Catholic who not stand for life “but work against that conviction, who vigorously support a contrary position, who tragically seek to make even more restrictive legislation that enables the destruction of life at its most vulnerable stages in the womb the law of the land, the law of our state.”

“It is not simply one of many labels applied to us. It is, as the bishops of our country have reminded us, our ‘preeminent priority,’” he said.

O’Connell engages in conversation with attendees during the EXPO.

UNWAVERING SUPPORTERS OF TRUTH AND LIFE

Bishop O’Connell quoted an appeal for life made by then-Mother Teresa of Kolkata, saying that, “Any society that accepts abortion is not teaching its people to love, but to use violence to get what they want. That is why the greatest destroyer of love and peace is abortion. … If we have no peace, it is because we have forgotten that we belong to each other, that we need to stand together for the most vulnerable in society.”

To the congregation, Bishop O’Connell said:

“Today, as we join together in the greatest gift of all prayers, the Eucharist, let us ask the Lord Jesus Christ who gave his life for all of us, born and unborn, to give us the grace to protect the innocent, most vulnerable child in the womb; to encourage their mothers and fathers to let them live; to work with renewed strength to stand together and build a culture of life and a civilization of love.

“Together, let us give thanks to God for the gift of human life and stand together to protect and promote life from the womb to the tomb as the Catholic Church in our state and Diocese, without hesitation or reservation,” the Bishop said. “Give thanks, yes, and stand together for life, now and forever. Amen.”

HELP IS AT HAND

After Mass, participants ventured into the parish hall for refreshments and a LIFE EXPO, where they met with

Bishop

Local Catholics travel to D.C. to march for life’s most vulnerable

BY ELIZABETH ZIMAK  Correspondent

Catholics from the Diocese of Trenton who attended the 52nd National March for Life in Washington said they attended to stand for the most vulnerable members of the population.

“Actions speak louder than words,” said Father Michael Wallack, pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown. “We are not really living the Gospel if we are not really standing up for the most vulnerable, especially the unborn.”

Father Wallack attended the Jan. 24 march with 27 of his parishioners – his fifth time attending since being installed as pastor six years ago. Despite the 2022 Supreme Court ruling that ended federal protections for abortion, Father Wallack believes it is more important than ever for people to stand up for life.

Richard Pieslak of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, agreed.

“It’s inspiring to see so many people

at the March for Life. Often, you think you’re in a very small minority of prolife individuals, so it’s great to be among like-minded people from all over the country,” he said.

This year was Pieslak’s 10th march; he attended with nearly 30 parishioners from both his parish and St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Hightstown. He said being at the March of Life gives him motivation to continue raising awareness of pro-life causes throughout the year. As a Knight of Columbus at St. Gregory’s, Pieslak visits a local Planned Parenthood clinic every Saturday. There, he hands out literature about nearby pregnancy resource centers to mothers in crisis.

Pieslak said he was pleasantly surprised to see so many young people at this year’s March for Life.

“It makes me hopeful that there’s youth out there to take over when the older individuals can’t,” he said.

Among the young people at the March were 29 students from Red Bank Catholic High School, Red Bank.

Deborah Flego, religion teacher, has been accompanying her classes to the March for Life since 2011.

“I hope students will see that they are supported in a beautiful, hope-filled way by millions of people,” she said. “They are constantly fed lies on social media and need to know the truth.”

“I feel it is my duty to stand up for the ones that can’t speak for themselves,” said senior Sarah Moser, who has attended the March three times since 2020.

Moser is also president of her school’s Casey4Life program. Students participate in various pro-life activities throughout the year, such as a “baby shower” and diaper drive for local mothers in need.

Flego was heartened by the day’s speakers, but also the enthusiasm for the life cause expressed by the people around her.

“The sacredness of human life is the basis for how we treat the poor, neglected, elderly, sick and marginalized, and should be the measure by which we love all people,” she said.

Father Walter Quiceno, left, parochial vicar of St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, and parishioners, are on the bus ride to Washington. Facebook photo

Members of Red Bank Catholic High School’s Caseys for Life Club get into the spirit during the March for Life. Facebook photo

‘GREAT SPIRIT OF HOPE’ ANIMATES PRO-LIFE ADVOCATES AT 2025 MARCH FOR LIFE

WASHINGTON • The 52nd National March for Life, held Jan. 24 in the nation’s capital, brought thousands together in support of the unborn. Everyone had their own “why” for coming out that day to stand for the life of the unborn child.

Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann, who led the rally on the National Mall in prayer, said that “this is the most important human rights issue.” He called for cultural change brought about by evangelizing with love and joy.

Dominican Sisters Mary Rose Bingham and Theresa Joseph Loan Anh Nguyen said they came to give witness to the sacredness of human life from conception to natural death. Marchers like Marcela Rojas, who came with a group of mothers and children from the New York Archdiocese, urged women facing difficult pregnancies to seek help and support rather than choose abortion. Chris and Isabel Hoff traveled from Michigan to advocate for life and adoption, and said they received heartfelt responses from marchers

STANDING TOGETHER

Continued from 43 representatives from an array of local organizations dedicated to upholding and promoting human dignity throughout all stages of life. Agencies included support for women in crisis pregnancies; shelters that care for pregnant women; pregnancy resource centers; infertility support services; support for adoption and foster care, and ministries that assist with healing following abortion.

Mary Ann Saville, who is relatively new to her Diocesan position as coordinator of the Jail and Prison Ministry, was happy to attend the Mass for Life for the first time. At the EXPO, she marveled at the scope of programs that “support life in all its forms,” then noted that while outreach to the imprisoned might not

who had been adopted. Nineteen-year-old Michelle Rivera from San Diego said young people like her are “in charge of making a difference” in a post-Dobbs era and called on her generation to take action and make a difference in law and society.

TRUMP BARS TAXPAYER FUNDING FOR ABORTION IN THE U.S. OR OVERSEAS

WASHINGTON • President Donald Trump on Jan. 24 used executive authority to block taxpayer funds from paying for elective abortion procedures both in the U.S. and abroad. Trump signed a presidential memorandum to reinstate a global health assistance policy, commonly referred to as the Mexico City Pol-

be readily viewed as being pro-life, she was pleased by the number of people who expressed interest in volunteering in prisons.

Peg Campbell, a member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Cinnaminson, manned the table for 1st Way of Burlington County, which helps mothers and their families with material goods and support they need to carry their babies to term. Campbell said she found the LIFE EXPO to be fruitful: there was a lot of information for clients, and it also served as a reminder “to pray for women who find themselves in a difficult situation and pregnant.”

IN THE TRENCHES

While she is active in pro-life outreach in her parish, Dot Waski was happy to experience a pro-life effort on a wider scale at the Diocese-wide Mass and LIFE EXPO.

Students from Wheaton College in Wheaton, Illinois, hold the March for Life banner outside the U.S. Supreme Court during the annual March for Life in Washington Jan. 24, 2025. OSV News photo/ Elizabeth Frantz, Reuters

icy, which bars taxpayer funds from going to nongovernmental organizations abroad that perform or promote abortions. He also signed a second executive order to further enforce a ban on federal funding for abortion in the U.S. known as the Hyde Amendment.

In a Jan. 26 statement, Bishop Daniel E. Thomas of Toledo, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee for Pro-Life Activities, praised the actions saying that most Americans opposed “being forced to support abortion” through their tax dollars. “I am grateful for the strengthening of policies that protect us from being compelled to participate in a culture of death, and that help us to restore a culture of life at home and abroad,” he said in the statement.

Source: OSV News

“I wanted to pray with the larger community and our Bishop,” said Waski, a member of Our Lady of Perpetual Help-St. Agnes Parish, Atlantic Highlands.

Virginia Schlegel of St. Joseph Parish, Millstone Township, said she came away feeling renewed in her pro-life conviction.

While “I’m very disappointed in our state,” where abortion remains legal and “life is not cherished, I came today to pray for a change of mind and heart,” she said. “Today helped to reinforce my courage to stand up and not be afraid to continue my support for life.”

Schlegel added she plans to share the information she gathered at the LIFE EXPO with her parish youth group and hopes she can help teach the young people the difference between “the truth about life

and what the Church teaches and the counter-cultural things” they might encounter in society.

Though relatively new to St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake, and Mary’s Pro-Life Ministry, a deanery-wide effort in Monmouth County, being involved in the pro-life movement is nothing new for Steve Macri.

Having some 40 years of experience with the New York Archdiocese, including ministering with the Sisters of Life, Macri said he was happy to join other like-minded people in praying for the pro-life cause at the Standing Together for Life Mass. He said he appreciated the communal worship and was reminded that he was not alone in his pro-life thinking.

Macri added that it was his hope that such events would motivate people to “step forward and join in the pro-life movement.”

Bishop O’Connell addresses national gathering of Catholic college, university leaders

FROM STAFF REPORTS

Each winter, presidents and senior administrators from the 230 Catholic colleges and universities in the United States and from around the world come together in Washington for the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities’ Annual Meeting. The meeting offers ACCU members the opportunity to greet colleagues, share ideas and discuss important issues in Catholic higher education.

 “We ‘steward the mission’ that draws from our encounter with

the Lord Jesus ...”

This year’s event, which had as its theme “Stewarding the Mission: Transforming the Enterprise,” was held from Jan. 31 to Feb. 3 in Washington’s Grand Hyatt Hotel. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., who serves as chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Catholic Education, served as celebrant and homilist for a Feb. 1 Mass, and was accompanied at the altar by Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Papal Nuncio to the United States.

Prior to becoming the 10th Bishop of Trenton in June 2010, Bishop O’Connell was the 14th president of The Catholic

Members of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities gather at Washington’s Grand Hyatt Hotel to listen to Bishop O’Connell’s homily.

Bishop O’Connell addresses a crowd in Washington D.C. during the annual meeting of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities. Staff photos

University of America in Washington, serving from 1998 to 2010. CUA is popularly known as “the Bishops’ University,” the national university of Catholics in the United States. During his tenure there, Bishop O’Connell also served as a consultor on the Vatican Congregation (now Dicastery) for Catholic Education.

In his homily, Bishop O’Connell reflected on the meaning of the weekend’s Feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple and the concept of “encounter” in Catholic higher education.

Bishop O’Connell celebrates Mass during the annual meeting of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities in Washington. At right is Cardinal Christophe Pierre, Papal Nuncio to the United States.

He highlighted Pope Francis’ frequent use of the expression “encounter” in his homilies, talks and writings. The Bishop told the Catholic college and university presidents and administrators gathered that the notion “encounter” refers to “what lies at the heart of the Christian vocation: meeting the Lord Jesus Christ.” Leadership in Catholic education today requires such an “encounter” on our campuses, the Bishop said. Bishop O’Connell explained that on the Feast celebrating the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple, the Holy Family encountered the Old Testament’s prophecies, traditions and laws that introduced them to the Messiah, ushering in a new covenant, a new opportunity to “encounter” the presence and grace of God. It is that experience of “encounter”

Bishop O’Connell, left, and Father Jean Felicien, the Bishop’s priest-secretary and master of ceremonies, pose for a photo with Sister Raffaella Petrini, FSE, who serves as Secretary General of the Vatican City State during the Annual meeting of the Association of Catholic Colleges and Universities in Washington.

‘Fueling Faith, Spreading Hope’

Annual Catholic Appeal to offer new parish incentives, enhance formation

BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

Each year the Annual Catholic Appeal aims to support parishes and vital ministries in the Diocese of Trenton, assuring that the local Church is alive and thriving.

This year’s theme, “Fan the Flame of Hope,” draws upon the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope proclaimed by Pope Francis, which Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., emphasized in the ACA video that will be shown in parishes Feb. 15-16.

“Pope Francis’ Jubilee letter invites us to think about how our faith is both a gift to cherish and a flame to nurture,” Bishop O’Connell points out. “Your support for the Annual Catholic Appeal ensures that this flame burns brightly, spreading the light and the warmth of Christ to vital ministries across our Diocese.”

VITAL FUNDS FOR THE GREATER GOOD

Seeking to raise $6 million, the 2025 ACA’s mission “invites the faithful to embrace Pope Francis’ call to become ‘pilgrims of hope,’ journeying together in faith,” said Christine Prete, Department of Development director. “By supporting the Annual Catholic Appeal, we enable our Diocese, parishes and Catholic institutions to share the Gospel, serve the poor and vulnerable, nurture vocations and provide spiritual and academic formation.

 “Every gift strengthens the Church [and] its mission.”

Each year, parishes are given an ACA fundraising goal by the Diocese, as well as financial incentives when that goal and other criteria are met. Some of those incentives have been enhanced or newly introduced for 2025.

In addition to calculating individual parish goals based on the overall ACA need, a new process for 2025 will connect the goals of individual parishes to their offertory income. “This ensures a more equitable and sustainable approach that reflects each parish’s financial reality while supporting the long-term mission of the Diocese,” Prete explained.

This year, “once parishes hit their goal, they will receive a rebate of 100 percent of funds raised beyond that goal,” said Prete.

“Additionally, parishes that boost their participation rates by 5% will earn an incentive of 5% of their fundraising goal, regardless of whether they meet the overall goal.”

“We’re here to help one another,” Prete said of the spirit behind the ACA. “While the parish does benefit, the [majority of] funds support the broader Diocese. Every gift – no matter

the size – strengthens the Church and ensures everyone can contribute to its mission.”

Building awareness about how the funds given to the ACA are used and why they are so necessary is essential, Prete noted, especially when encouraging those who already support their individual parishes to be generous with the diocesan campaign.

“Supporting the ACA is vital to the continued growth of our faith and the future of the Church. It enables the Diocese to address needs and provide services that individual parishes or ministries cannot achieve alone,” explained Rose Kimball, Department of Development associate. “While parish contributions sustain local communities, the ACA unites Catholics across the Diocese in a shared mission, strengthening our faith today and building a foundation for generations to come.”

TARGETED NEEDS

Those pooled resources help to strengthen essential ministries

Diocesse or Trenton, Department of Developement graphic

ACA targets needs

such as vocations, Catholic education, youth ministry and social services; to reach vulnerable populations through agencies like Catholic Charities and Mount Carmel Guild; ensure every parish has access to pastoral care and essential services; and support long-term growth of the Church through funding seminarian education, leadership development and other initiatives.

This year, ACA funds will also target communications and faith formation more boldly, seeking to expand modern, relevant programming “that connects faith to youth and young adult’s daily lives, such as service projects, and social gatherings rooted in Catholic values,” Kimball said. Funds will support the use of digital platforms “to foster connections and create a sense of community and connectedness” and provide formation and training for lay leaders, catechists and volunteers “to better serve parishes and diocesan ministries through various educational offerings,” she added

Other needs served by ACA funding will be equipping families “to practice their faith at home, focusing on family prayer, catechesis, and service opportunities,” as well as “highlighting stories of faith triumphing over adversity through the work of our Diocese’s communications and media efforts.”

“By addressing these needs, the Church can engage and nurture the faithful in ways that are meaningful, relevant and spiritually enriching,” Kimball said.

GETTING THE MESSAGE OUT

To raise awareness, the diocesan Department of Development prepares informational materials – including the Bishop’s video, in-pew pledge cards, parish brochures, Jubilee prayer cards and in-home mailings that detail just how supporting the ACA benefits ministry in both the parishes and the Diocese at large. Materials are provided in six

Continued on 50

POWERFUL TESTIMONIALS

AsBishop O’Connell introduced the various ways in which ACA funds impact ministries of the Diocese in the video showing in parishes, representatives of those ministries detailed the specific ways in which the generosity of ACA donors allowed them to give back to their parishes and communities.

A single mother of two children, Irene, is a care receiver of assistance from Trenton’s Mount Carmel Guild, which receives part of its funding from the ACA. “The additional help and support I receive from Mount Carmel Guild has been a lifeline for my family,” she said, “ensuring my children have food on the table and never go without.”

Cheri Gleason, case manager for the service organization Seeds of Service in Brick, helps connect people with much needed services “so they can sort through difficulties to begin rebuilding their lives with hope and dignity.” A Seeds of Service care receiver, Erin, said that she is “really grateful for the help we receive from Seeds of Service – they have been a blessing to my family and the whole community.”

Whether through Catholic education or social ministries, youth and young adults of the Diocese benefit from programs that receive ACA funding.

Kerry Wyrovsky, teacher in St. Leo the Great School, Lincroft, noted how she helps students connect faith with everyday life, building a foundation for their future filled with hope and purpose.

“It’s not only reading, writing and math, but also faith, hope and love,” she said.

“We have 40-50 kids in our youth ministry who are loved, valued and encouraged to see Christ in others,” said Jeff Siedlecki, youth ministry leader in Holy Eucharist Par-

Cheri Gleason, Case Manager, Seeds of Service and Erin, Care Receiver, Seeds of Service

ish, Tabernacle. “And through service, they discover Christ within themselves and share his love with the world. They are actively involved in everything here at the parish!”

Jessica Donohue, parish catechetical leader in St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton, pointed out that the ACA helps catechists “by providing opportunities for education and spiritual formation so they can continue to hand down our faith.”

“Theology on Tap is one of my favorite things offered to young adults,” said Shannon Desrochers, parishioner of St. Martha Parish, Point Pleasant. “There we discuss life’s challenges, and how faith provides guidance, helping us navigate issues, without being consumed by societal norms. … Thank you for supporting this ministry through the ACA.”

ACA funds also assist those in formation to become clergy in the Diocese.

Rev. Mr. Alan Bridges, a transitional deacon for the Diocese, expressed his appreciation as he completes his final year of formation before ordination this coming June.

“As I prepare to make my promises and serve as a priest in one of our parish communities, I am deeply grateful for the support that has guided me through the seminary, helping me to grow in faith and hope as I answer the call to serve God’s people.”

A candidate for the permanent diaconate, Graham Mulholland of St. Aloysius Parish, Jackson, said he was “truly thankful” for the ACA support in his four-year study program.

“This funding has been essential in my formation,” he said, “allowing me to grow in faith and prepare to serve in my parish community with love and compassion.”

Irene, Care Receiver, Mount Carmel Guild

Graham Mulholland, St. Aloysius, Jackson

Jeff Siedlecki, Holy Eucharist, Tabernacle

2024 Annual Catholic Appeal

With profound gratitude...

ONE

Love  Faith  Family

the Diocese of Trenton would like to acknowledge the following parishes who have reached or surpassed their goal for the 2024 Annual Catholic Appeal!

MERCER COUNTY

Korean Martyrs, Trenton • Reverend Dae Hyeok Son

Our Lady of Good Counsel, West Trenton • Reverend Ariel F. Robles

Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony, Hamilton • Reverend Monsignor Thomas N. Gervasio

Sacred Heart, Trenton • Reverend Monsignor Dennis A. Apoldite, E.V.

St. Alphonsus, Hopewell • Reverend Stephen A. Sansevere

St. Anthony of Padua, Hightstown • Very Reverend Oscar B. Sumanga, J.C.D.

St. David the King, Princeton Junction • Reverend Jason Parzynski

St. George, Titusville • Reverend Stephen A. Sansevere

St. Gregory the Great, Hamilton • Reverend Michael Hall

St. James, Pennington • Reverend Stephen A. Sansevere

St. Paul, Princeton • Reverend Christopher Dayton

BURLINGTON COUNTY

Corpus Christi, Willingboro • Reverend John J. Testa

Holy Eucharist, Tabernacle • Reverend Michael T. McClane

Mary, Mother of the Church, Bordentown •

Very Reverend Martin O’Reilly, E.V.

Our Lady of Good Counsel, Moorestown • Reverend James J. Grogan

Resurrection, Delran • Reverend Michael A. Gentile

Sacred Heart, Riverton • Reverend Charles M. Schwartz

St. Ann, Browns Mills • Reverend Pierre C. Lunimbu, S.V.D.

St. Charles Borromeo, Cinnaminson • Very Reverend Daniel Kirk, V.F.

St. Joan of Arc, Marlton • Reverend Monsignor Richard D. LaVerghetta

St. Katharine Drexel, Burlington • Reverend Jerome J. Guld

St. Mary of the Lakes, Medford • Very Reverend Daniel F. Swift, V.F.

MONMOUTH COUNY

Christ the King, Long Branch • Reverend Javier A. Diaz-Muñoz

Holy Family, Union Beach • Reverend Matthew J. Pfleger

Holy Innocents, Neptune • Reverend H. Todd Carter

Nativity, Fair Haven • Reverend Christopher Picollo

St. Anthony of Padua, Red Bank •

Very Reverend Alberto W. Tamayo, C.O., V.F.

St. Benedict, Holmdel • Very Reverend Garry R. Koch, V.F.

St. Catharine-St. Margaret, Spring Lake • Reverend Damian McElroy

St. Catharine, Holmdel • Reverend Patrick McPartland

St. Catherine Laboure, Middletown • Reverend Richard Osborn

St. Catherine of Siena, Farmingdale • Reverend Angelito I. Anarcon

St. Clement, Matawan • Reverend Thomas Vala

St. Denis, Manasquan • Very Reverend Willliam J. Lago

St. Gabriel, Marlboro • Reverend Eugene J. Roberts

St. James, Red Bank • Reverend Monsignor Joseph N. Rosie, E.V.

St. Mary, Colts Neck • Reverend Jeffrey E. Lee

St. Michael, Long Branch • Reverend John K. Butler

St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Catherdral, Freehold • Reverend Monsignor Sam A. Sirianni, V.F.

St. Rose, Belmar • Reverend Monsignor Edward J. Arnister, J.C.L.

St. Teresa of Calcutta, Avon By the Sea • Reverend Erin J. Brown

St. Thomas More, Manalapan • Reverend Juan D. Peirano

St. Veronica, Howell • Reverend Peter James Alindogan

St. William the Abbot, Allenwood • Reverend Thomas F. Maher

OCEAN COUNTY

Epiphany, Brick Town • Reverend Michael A. Santangelo

St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Whiting • Reverend Evarist Kabagambe

St. Isidore the Farmer, New Egypt • Reverend Robert W. Holtz, V.F.

St. Junipero Serra, Seaside • Reverend Michael Lorentsen, O.F.M. Conv.

St. John, Lakehurst • Reverend James F. O’Neill

St. Joseph, Toms River • Very Reverend G. Scott Shaffer, V.F.

St. Justin, Toms River • Reverend Mark A. Kreder

St. Luke, Toms River • Reverend Michael Kennedy

St. Martha, Point Pleasant • Reverend David S. Swantek

St. Mary, Barnegat • Reverend Monsignor Kenard J. Tuzeneu

St. Maximilian Kolbe, Toms River • Reverend Stephen M. Piga

St. Monica, Jackson • Reverend Alex Enriquez

St. Peter, Pt. Pleasant Beach • Reverend Robert Schlageter, O.F.M. Conv.

St. Pius X, Forked River • Reverend Richard J. Basznianin

St. Theresa, Little Egg Harbor • Reverend John Large

Visitation, Brick Town • Very Reverend Edward H. Blanchett, E.V.

Diverse ministries supported

Continued from 48

languages: English, Spanish, Polish, Haitian, Korean and Portuguese.

The Development Department also publishes a newsletter three times a year, showcasing individual stories of ministries supported.

“These ministries, whether they prepare future priests and deacons, form young people in the faith, support Catholic education or serve those in need, are signs of hope in our ever-changing world,” Bishop O’Connell explains in the video. “Through your generosity, you help fan this flame in tens of thousands of lives, rekindling faith, inspiring service and shaping the future of our Church. Together, we build the community that carries this hope forward, one act of love, one act of faith at a time.”

 “Together we build the community that carries this hope forward.”

Direct mailings are already arriving in homes, but Prete noted the importance and effectiveness of the message communicated in individual parishes.

“It’s an opportunity for their pastor to explain the ACA, and it becomes more personal with that connection tie-back to your own parish,” she said.

Prete emphasized the effectiveness of observing the impact firsthand in one’s own parish and across the Diocese,” she noted. “This visibility underscores the strong collaboration between the Diocese and its parishes.”

Kimball added, “Word of mouth and seeing it in action in your parish, then in the Diocese,” seem to be highly effective as well in showing the collaboration of the Diocese and its parishes.

TANGIBLE RESULTS

Highlighted in the marketing materials and the video are multiple ministries that directly benefit from ACA funds. One, in particular, is the training and educating of those who hand on the Catholic faith.

“There are 2,107 catechists in the Diocese,” Kimball pointed out. “[Their training] comes out of diocesan offices with seminars and catechesis. They are volunteers for the most part that give their time, but they need that spiritual formation so they can help our children grow in faith.”

Another supported ministry is the vocation of the permanent diaconate.

“The diaconate program is a collaborative effort between the parish, the ACA and the candidate, with each contributing

The Diocese of Trenton’s Annual Catholic Appeal fans the flame of hope, rekindling faith and strengthening our commitment to serve others.

2025 Appeal Goal: $6 Million

The range of ministries and programs our diocese supports shows that no single parish or pastor could manage alone. Through the Annual Catholic Appeal, we pool our resources to ensure all parishes have access to the vital programs and support they need. Together, we are building a stronger, united Church

Pastoral Life & Mission

• Campus Ministry

• Catechesis

• Evangelization & Family Life

• Grief & Bereavement

• Jail & Prison Ministry

• Marriage Ministry

• Order of Christian Initiation of Adults

• Youth & Young Adult Ministry

Clergy & Consecrated Life

• Diaconate Formation

• Priestly Formation

• Retired Clergy

• Villa (St. Denis Convent)

• Villa Vianney

• Vocations

Catholic Education

• Curriculum Guidance & Standards

• Professional Development

• Marketing Support & Consultation

Catholic Social Services

• Catholic Charities

Trenton

• Holy Innocents Society

• Mount Carmel Guild

• Parish Counseling Services

• Seeds of Service

Communications

• Diocesan website

• Multimedia Production

• Social Media

• The Monitor Magazine

one-third of the tuition cost,” Kimball said. “This partnership supports a four-year program that provides comprehensive formation, preparing candidates to serve as deacons in their parishes and communities.”

The program equips the candidates with theological education, spiritual growth, and pastoral skills, she continued, which are necessary “to bring Christ’s love and hope to those they serve. Upon ordination, deacons return to their parish to serve their community through ministry, Sacraments and acts of service.”

“During my formation, I viewed the sharing of financial obligation as an ongoing reinforcement of my discernment,” said Deacon Joe Stillo, who ministers in St. Mark Parish, Sea Girt. “Both my sponsoring parish as well as the Diocese had, not only spiritual, but financial ‘skin in the game’ ... Although diaconate service is a ‘volunteer’ vocation, I received the benefit of a financially supported master’s degree in systematic theology from Seton Hall University. I am so blessed and appreciative.”

“My sense is that many people don’t realize that deacons are not paid once ordained,” said Deacon Mark Degenhart, who serves in St. James Parish, Red Bank. The sharing of tuition costs “was a nice incentive and helps assure that all parties were and continue to be vested in my successful completion of formation, culminating in my ordination in May 2024.”

Vital to diocesan efforts, the ACA campaign is more than a weekend Mass collection. It is a consistent outreach to inform parishioners, encourage support and affirm their commitment by demonstrating the impact of their gifts.

ANNUAL FINANCIAL REPORTING

A STATEMENT FROM THE DIOCESE OF TRENTON:

Each year, the Diocese of Trenton undergoes an audit of its financial statements by an independent public accounting firm.

The financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, were audited by WIPFLI LLP. The 2024 audit report included an opinion that the financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024, are fairly presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States.

For fiscal year 2024, the Diocese of Trenton reported a decrease in total net assets of $15.2 million, compared to an increase of $28.6 million in fiscal year 2023. The decrease in fiscal year 2024 was predominantly due to contributions to the pension plan. The increase in fiscal year 2023 was due primarily to the sale of assets, donated property, and reduced claims incurred. The Diocese is committed to exercising good stewardship by carefully managing the funds provided for its ministerial and administrative responsibilities. In accordance with good stewardship and our Catholic values, the Department of Finance strives to safeguard the assets of the Diocese of Trenton in a responsible manner to benefit the common good of all the people of the Diocese.

OUR SERVICES

In order to accomplish our mission, we provide numerous services in the areas of collection and distribution of financial resources; preparation of operating budgets and financial statements (certified with unqualified opinion by external public accounting firm); compliance of all required state and federal filings related to Diocesan finances; banking assistance to parishes/schools; operational reviews of parishes, schools and other entities of the Diocese (internal controls provided); financial analysis in the planning of future expansion/consolidation of Church operations and, the wise and prudent investment of diocesan and parish assets (guidelines provided).

DIOCESAN

FY 2024 DIOCESAN SUPPORT AND REVENUE

Investments – The Diocese maintains funds that are invested and generate returns that can be used to fund operations while maintaining the principal of those funds.

Q & A ON HOW DIOCESE RAISES, USES MONEY; POINTS TO AREAS OF IMPROVEMENT

Kevin Cimei, the Diocese’s Chief Fiscal Officer, provided the following answers to several key financial questions:

1. What are the key roles and responsibilities of the Diocese and how are they funded?

The Diocese exists to support the responsibilities of the Bishop to “teach, govern and sanctify” as he shepherds the parishes and Catholic community across the four counties of Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean. Among the initiatives the Diocese provides for are:

Support of, service to priests, deacons, religious and seminarians

Education, catechesis and lay formation

Support for parish and family life

Helping those in need of pastoral care and basic needs

The funds required to execute those responsibilities come from three main sources:

Parish Assessments – Each parish in the Diocese pays a percentage of its income to support the overall operations and ministries provided by the Diocese.

Fundraising – The Diocese conducts several fundraisers, including the Annual Catholic Appeal and school giving campaigns.

2. What administrative and financial services do the parishes rely on the Diocese to provide?

Management of a centralized insurance procurement program for all diocesan entities. This enables better pooling of risk and purchasing power to reduce costs for insurance across all categories — medical, property, workers comp, auto, life, etc.

Administration of a pension plan and 403(b) plan for parish, school and other diocesan employees.

Basic legal and real estate support services for parishes and schools.

Administrative support of parishes in areas like Human Resources, Child Protection, and Risk management.

3. How is financial oversight and accountability achieved on the parish level? How are they done on the diocesan level?

The Diocese conducts operational reviews to ensure appropriate controls and best practices are in place at parishes and schools.

Finance Councils – The Diocese has a Finance Council as do all parishes, established under Canon law, which provides support, guidance and oversight to the Diocese and the parishes. A listing of Diocesan Finance Council members appears on the next page.

Audit – Annually, the financial statements of the Diocese of Trenton are audited by an independent public accounting firm. The financial statements for the year ended June 30, 2024 were audited by WIPFLI LLP in accordance with auditing standards generally accepted in the United States. The 2024 audit report included an opinion that the financial statements for the fiscal year ended June 30, 2024 are fairly presented in accordance with accounting principles generally accepted in the United States. The audit report and financial statements are available dioceseoftrenton.org/finance.

4. What is being done to overcome the most serious financial challenges?

Denise Contino, at the podium, and Father Michael Hall lead presentations on the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, the Catholic Church’s official process for preparing newcomers to the faith. Mary Stadnyk photos

O.C.I.A. coordinators Mary Verme, left, of Sacred Heart Parish, Mount Holly, and Lori Napoli of Resurrection Parish, Delran, attend the workshop in St. Gregory the Great Parish on Jan. 18.

WORKSHOPS PROVIDE UPDATES, LOGISTICS ON O.C.I.A. PROCESS

The changes surrounding the ritual texts of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults was the focus of two training workshops offered by the diocesan Office of Worship and Department of Catechesis Jan. 16 in Nativity Parish, Fair Haven, and Jan. 18 in St. Gregory

the Great Parish, Hamilton Square. Offered for clergy, liturgists as well as those who serve on parish O.C.I.A. teams, discussions centered on the reasons for changing the name from Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults to Order of Christian Initiation of Adults

and reviewing the various stages of the catechumenate process. Workshop presenters were Father Michael Hall, director of the Office of Worship and pastor of St. Gregory the Great Parish, and Denise Contino, director of the Department of Catechesis.

Diocesan budget, finance council reports

Continued from 51

The Diocese takes its responsibility to manage resources seriously and strives for improvements in efficiencies and operations to ensure good stewardship.

Managing spending and budgets and working with parishes to help improve their financial health are examples of initiatives.

5. Who advises the Bishop on important financial decisions?

The Diocesan Finance Council is formed in accord with Canon 492, revised Code of Canon Law (1983) from individuals appointed by the Bishop and known to be of sound integrity and who are diverse in their expertise of finance and civil law. The Council meets four times a year to advise the Bishop on decisions relative to important acts of temporal administration and financial decisions.

MEMBERS:

Mr. Michael J. Castellano (01/25/17-01/24/27), Chairman; Appointed 01/2007; Retired CFO, Lazard Ltd.

Most Rev. David M. O’Connell, C.M. Bishop of Trenton

Rev. Msgr. Thomas N. Gervasio Vicar General, Diocese of Trenton

Rev. Christopher J. Dayton (9/1/2023 – 8/31/2028); Appointed 9/2023; Pastor, St. Paul Parish, Princeton

Rev. Roy A. Ballacillo (3/1/2025 – 2/28/2030); Appointed 3/2025;

Parochial Vicar, St. James Parish, Pennington

Mr. A. Kevin Cimei; Appointed 4/2017; Chief Fiscal Officer, Diocese of Trenton

Mr. William N. Dooley (2/20/17-2/19/27); Appointed 2/2007; Executive VP CIO, American International Group Inc. – Retired

Mr. Robert D. Finan (9/1/18-9/4/28); Appointed 9/2018; Senior Vice President, Financial Advisor, The Finan Group

Mr. William S. Haines, Jr. (9/1/18-9/1/28); Appointed 9/2018; President/CEO Pine Island Cranberry Co., Inc.; St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, Medford

Deacon Jim Knipper (9/1/18-9/1/28); Appointed 9/2018; CEO, J. Knipper & Company, Inc.; St. Paul Parish, Princeton

Mr. Anthony J. Mingarino (9/1/18-8/31/28); Appointed 9/2018; Retired - Diocese of Trenton Chancellor & CFO/CAO; Our Lady of Hope Parish, Blackwood

Mr. Thomas P. Mullooly (9/1/18-8/31/28); Appointed 9/2018; CEO, Founder Mullooly Asset Management, Inc.; Trustee, St. Rose Parish, Belmar

Mr. Edward J. Smith (10/20/19-10/19/29); Appointed 10/2014; Retired Investment Banker; Currently: Trustee and Independent Director

DIOCESAN DATEBOOK

To learn more about these upcoming events in the Diocese of Trenton, visit TrentonMonitor.com and click on NEWS>DIOCESE.

CHURCH IN CENTRAL AND EASTERN EUROPE COLLECTION MARCH 5

The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ annual Collection for the Church in Central and Eastern Europe, which serves essential pastoral needs in more than 25 countries, will take place March 5 this year.

Themed “Restore the Church, Build the Future,” the collection helps foster restoration in European countries still recovering from nearly 70 years of communist oppression.

For more information on the Collection to Aid the Church in Central and Eastern Europe, visit https://www. usccb.org/ccee.

RITE OF ELECTION MARCH 9

On March 9 catechumens from Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean Counties – along with their sponsors, families and OCIA team members – will gather with Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., for the Rite of Election to be held at 3 p.m. in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, 61 Georgia Road, Freehold.

Every year on the first Sunday in Lent, bishops throughout the world welcome those who are preparing to join the Catholic Church. During the Rite of Election they are formally acknowledged by the bishop, or his delegate, for their readiness to receive the Sacraments of Initiation – Baptism, Confirmation

and Eucharist – at the Easter Vigil. Over the course of many months, even years, the catechumens have been learning about the Catholic Church through their studies, faith experiences and participation in the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults in their parishes.

ANNUAL BLUE MASS APRIL 1

People of all faiths throughout Central New Jersey are invited to pray for law enforcement personnel who work to keep their communities safe during the 23rd Annual Blue Mass April 1 in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, 61 Georgia Rd., Freehold, beginning at 10:30 a.m.

Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will be principal celebrant and homilist and will be joined at the altar with priests from across Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean Counties. Bagpipers, fife and drum corps members and color guard processions will once again be part of the day’s tribute.

Formally titled the Celebration of Law Enforcement, the event is organized by the Blue Mass Committee to thank God for the sacrifice and service to the communities given by police officers and law enforcement agents at every level.

The Mass is open to the public. A luncheon will follow for law enforcement personnel and their families. All who wish to attend the luncheon must register online at dioceseoftrenton. org/blue-mass. Tickets are $20 per person; immediate family members of law enforcement personnel are invited to the luncheon at no charge. Anyone unable to attend the Blue Mass can watch via Livestream at www.youtube.com\trentondiocese.

For more information, email dotcomm@dioceseoftrenton.org.

TWO DIOCESE OF TRENTON PRIESTS GAIN U.S. CITIZENSHIP

Father Arian Wharff and Father Gregg Abadilla, parochial vicars in the Diocese of Trenton, recently became U.S. citizens after emigrating from Colombia and the Philippines.

Father Arian Wharff, parochial vicar of St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Hightstown and a native of Colombia, became a U.S. citizen Jan. 30. Father Wharff arrived in the Diocese of Trenton in 2010 and studied for the priesthood in St. Mary’s Seminary, Baltimore, where he earned a Master of Divinity degree. He was ordained by Bishop O’Connell in 2015. Courtesy photo

Father Gregg Abadilla, parochial vicar of St. CatharineSt. Margaret Parish in Spring Lake, joined Father Damian McElroy, pastor, in celebrating his U.S. citizenship in a Facebook post, Jan. 15. Father Abadilla, originally from the Philippines, moved to the United States in 2009 to study theology in St. Mary’s Seminary, Baltimore. He was ordained a priest by Bishop O’Connell in 2016. Facebook photo

Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., is shown with El Centro staff in this Monitor file photo. To the Bishop’s left is Roberto Hernandez, director. At far right is Msgr. Dennis Apoldite, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish.

Service has been at the heart of El

BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

Reflecting on the Jubilee Year 2025 and its theme of hope, the staff, volunteers, supporters and clients of the El Centro program of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton, maintain that providing hope for Spanish-speaking people who are new to the Trenton area and the country has been at the heart of the agency’s mission for the past 25 years.

“El Centro is my second home,” said Isabel Madrid, one of the first clients to seek services after El Centro opened in 1999.

As one of thousands of clients who credits El Centro for giving her family the help they needed, Madrid, a Trenton resident and member of Our Lady of the Angels Parish, said: “The staff respects me. They gave me any information I needed. I’m very comfortable here. I love El Centro.”

Housed in the former convent on the grounds of Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton, El Centro – The Family Resource Center – was founded by Roberto Hernandez and has since provided everything from basic necessities to education and long-term development for anyone who walks through its doors.

El Centro takes a unique, fami-

ly-based approach in providing services to the community, Hernandez said, emphasizing that that “the family is key” and the goal is to work with the entire family on a holistic level.

“It is important because without the nucleus of the family, I think that as a society we are going to struggle,” said Hernandez, a member of Sacred Heart Parish.

El Centro’s staff of nine plus 20 volunteers work to offer services that include free assistance to pregnant women and new mothers to help them learn parenting skills for healthy child development. The center also offers English as a Second Language classes, review courses for high school equivalency tests, job skills training programs, advocacy and referrals, counseling services, case management, health navigators, eye screenings, anger management classes, citizenship classes, rental and utility assistance, and clothing and food.

WIDENING THE REACH

Over the years, El Centro has seen a surge in the number of people needing assistance. In 2024, the agency helped 2,300 families and Hernandez estimates that over the past 25 years, El Centro has helped more than 500,000 families.

“That’s a lot of families,” he said, adding that about 58% of Trenton’s popula-

tion is Latino; the majority have “come here for help at one point or another.”

In more recent years, Hernandez said, the agency has broadened its reach to provide services to new arrivals from Haiti, Africa and Poland.

 “They trust El Centro and they trust the Church.”

“We’re here to help,” he said, noting that while the predominant population needing services is Hispanic and staff and volunteers are bilingual, translators accompany the French-, Creole- and Polish-speaking clients.

Hernandez acknowledged appreciation to both Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and Msgr. Dennis Apoldite, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish and episcopal vicar of Mercer County, for their unwavering support of El Centro over the years then spoke of how the agency works closely with its faith-based community and government partners. He noted that El Centro offers annual events that draw thousands of people, such as the annual health fair, a Three Kings celebration on the Feast of

Centro’s mission for 25 years

the Epiphany and a Way of the Cross procession throughout the streets of Trenton on Good Friday.

The health fair, usually held each spring in Sacred Heart Parish Hall, is a means for many living in Trenton to access health care; cost and language often are barriers to normal access. Dozens of organizations and medical professionals provide pro-bono services. The number of attendees at the health fair now exceeds 1,000. El Centro also

partners with other Catholic Charities agencies to provide clients with mental health services.

Msgr. Apoldite noted the privilege it is for him and his parishioners to work closely and regularly with the El Centro staff and volunteers in its many outreach endeavors.

“It’s a model program,” Msgr. Apoldite said, and to have more parishes and agencies like El Centro work collaboratively to benefit the greater community would be ideal.

Hernandez said that much of the clients’ comfort level in seeking services at El Centro is knowing the agency’s immigration program is accredited by the Department of Justice and Homeland Security and works with other agencies that assist with immigration laws, social services and other needs such as poverty and mental illness, Hernandez said. He acknowledged that many of the clients have been victims of scams.

“They have to be careful out there. There are too many wolves dressed in sheep’s clothing,” he said.

DISTINGUISHED HISTORY

Hernandez’s history with Catholic Charities dates to 1979 when he started his career as a family counselor. The impetus for his wanting to help families further and go on to establish El Centro

was based on an experience from when he was 7 and his family migrated to the United States from Arecibo, Puerto Rico. He recalled his father, a World War II and Korean War combat veteran, giving him $20 to pay the public service bill, but young Roberto lost the money on his way to the utilities office. Roberto was unsuccessful in trying to explain the situation to the clerk. Later, when Roberto returned to the office with his father, the clerk responded with profanities and ethnic slurs and told the elder Hernandez to “Come back when you learn to talk English.” Hernandez said his father responded by apologizing to the clerk for wasting his time.

“There was no need to treat people that way,” Hernandez said, and as angering and hurtful that experience was, he said his Catholic upbringing helped to counteract his emotions and focus his attention on being of service and helping others.

“They trust El Centro and they trust the Church,” he said of the clients. “The Church is part of who they are, and they look at El Centro as being part of the Church and the mission of the Church.”

“Thank God, we are here to be able to make a difference in some of our most vulnerable residents,” he said. “It’s a privilege to have an opportunity to serve them.”

Bishop O’Connell is shown taking photos with El Centro staff. Monitor file photo

The annual Via Crucis, Way of the Cross, is a major event El Centro hosts each Good Friday. The procession travels through the neighborhoods of Trenton. Monitor file photo

El Centro staff, volunteers and clients celebrate the Feast of the Epiphany held in Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton. Courtesy photo

Through works of service, local parishioners honor legacy of Dr. King

Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle, was among parishes and Catholic schools in the Diocese of Trenton that honored the memory of civil rights leader Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr., by hosting a Day of Service and using their day off from work or school to aid others.

In Tabernacle, the annual Day of

Service is organized by the parish’s LIFT (Living in Faith Together) religious education program. This year’s event drew about 60 local families who assembled utensil packets and created placemats and centerpieces for Cathedral Kitchen in Camden, which provides more than 300,000 meals each year to local residents in need.

Father Michael McClane, pastor of Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle, and families spent part of their observance of Martin Luther King Day doing an act of service in which they assisted Cathedral Kitchen, an emergency food provider in Camden. The Holy Eucharist parishioners assembled utensil packets, decorated placemats, assembled centerpieces and collected fruit and snacks. Elizabeth Zimak photo

A youngster shows her craft during the Day of Service in Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle. Elizabeth Zimak photo

A similar outreach effort occurred in St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, Medford, where grade school and high school-aged youth, along with parents and adult chaperones, spent several hours in St. Mary of the Lakes School auditorium working in assembly line fashion to prepare 1,800 bag lunches for area soup kitchens and shelters.

At the Day of Service in St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, Medford, a young boy shows the sandwiches that were prepared and packaged for area soup kitchens. Courtesy photo

A group of students work together on packaging sandwiches during the Day of Service in St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, Medford. Courtesy photo

Pope Francis watches as members of religious orders light candles at the beginning of vespers on the eve of the feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas, and the World Day for Consecrated Life Feb. 1, 2025, in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican. CNS photo/Vatican Media

Presentation in the temple shows how God lives among us

BY JUSTIN MCLELLAN  Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY • The presentation of Jesus in the temple of Jerusalem shows that God’s closeness to humanity is not confined to a place of worship but is manifested in his living among people, Pope Francis said.

“God is present in the midst of his people, not because he dwells within four walls, but because he lives as a man among humanity,” the Pope said before praying the Angelus with visitors in St. Peter’s Square Feb. 2. “This is the novelty of Jesus.”

The day’s Gospel reading from St. Luke recounted how Mary and Joseph brought the infant Jesus to the temple 40 days after his birth, following Jewish tradition. The “heartfelt voices” of Simeon and Anna, who had long awaited the messiah, “resound among the ancient stones of the temple, announcing the fulfillment of Israel’s expectations,” the Pope said.

Simeon described Jesus in “three beautiful ways,” the Pope said. “Jesus is salvation, Jesus is light; Jesus is a sign of

contradiction.”

“Like the sun that rises over the world, this child will redeem it from the darkness of evil, pain and death,” Pope Francis said. “How much we need light, this light, even today!”

Simeon then prophesied that Jesus will be “a sign that will be contradicted” so that “the thoughts of many hearts may be revealed.”

“Jesus reveals the criterion for judging all of history and each of our lives,” Pope Francis explained. “And what is this criterion? It is love: those who love, live; those who hate, die.”

The Pope urged Christians to reflect on whether they, too, are longing for God: “Do I wish to see the face of the Lord? Do I await the manifestation of his plan of salvation?”

After praying the Angelus, the Pope called for people to say “no” to war.

“It destroys everything, it destroys life and induces us to disregard it,” he said; “let us not forget that war is always a defeat.”

Pope Francis renewed his Jubilee year appeal for Christian government

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leaders “to do their utmost in the negotiations to bring all the ongoing conflicts to an end.”

“Let us pray for peace in tormented Ukraine, in Palestine, Israel, Lebanon, Myanmar, Sudan and North Kivu,” he said, referring to the region in Congo where intense fighting flared up in late January, leading to the deaths of hundreds of people.

Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States, celebrates the welcome Mass at the Catholic Social Ministry Gathering in Washington Jan. 25, 2025. Concelebrating is Archbishop Borys Gudziak, right, chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development. OSV News photo/courtesy of USCCB Secretariat of Justice and Peace

CATHOLIC SOCIAL MINISTRY GATHERING PUTS CHRISTIAN HOPE ‘DYNAMO’ INTO ACTION

WASHINGTON • The Catholic Social Ministry Gathering, held in Washington from Jan. 25-28, focused on collaboration, advocacy and prayer, bringing together Catholic leaders in social ministry from across the country. The event, themed “Missionaries of Hope, Advocates for Justice,” was organized by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and several other groups the day after the national March for Life.

Cardinal Christophe Pierre, the papal ambassador to the U.S., read a message from Pope Francis that emphasized the need to bring “organizing hope” to the center of the Church’s pastoral mission. Cardinal Pierre encouraged them to bring Christ’s “greater justice” to address the many forms of injustice in society. Key discussions addressed a wide range of Catholic social teaching, such as migration, climate change, human trafficking, intergenerational trauma in Native American communities, and fostering social trust.

Bishop Joseph J. Tyson of Yakima, Washington, highlighted Pope Francis’ call for compassion toward marginalized groups, especially migrants and refugees, and shared painful stories of the migrants he shepherds.

The three-day gathering began and

Salesian Sister Guerline Joseph speaks to attendees during the Diocese of Trenton’s Diocesan Youth Conference on Feb. 1. A new CARA report was just released about the average experiences of those who made perpetual vows in 2024. Rose O’Connor photo

ended with Mass, and also featured workshops on refugee resettlement, healthcare, homelessness, and family support. After the sending Mass, participants made advocacy visits to Capitol Hill.

NEW REPORT: INSIGHTS INTO RELIGIOUS MAKING PERPETUAL VOWS TODAY

WASHINGTON • Those who embrace consecrated life “bring the hope of the Gospel to the world in both visible and hidden ways,” said Bishop Earl A. Boyea of Lansing, Michigan, chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations. Bishop Boyea shared his thoughts in a Jan. 29 statement released by the USCCB ahead of the World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life on Feb. 2, the feast of the Presentation of Jesus in the Temple.

The USCCB also announced the release of a new report by Georgetown University’s Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate on men and women religious in the U.S. who made perpetual vows in 2024. CARA’s report found that while, on average, respondents were 19 years old when they first considered religious life, 73% earned an undergraduate or graduate degree and 82% had prior work experience before entering their religious institute.

CARA found that prior to religious life,

four out of five had gone on retreat or prayed the Rosary regularly. Seven out of 10 went regularly to Eucharistic Adoration.

ATTACK ON SPOKANE PRIEST AT LOURDES SERVICE POINTS TO MENTAL HEALTH NEEDS

SPOKANE, Wash. • A man attacked the parochial vicar of the Cathedral of Our Lady of Lourdes during a Feb. 4 healing liturgy. The incident occurred on the second night of the Cathedral’s Lourdes Novena for Healing.

The attacker rushed from the pews and swung at Father David Gaines, who remained calm, saying, “You’ll be OK.” Parishioners, a deacon, and security subdued the man, who was later arrested.

Bishop Thomas Daly, who witnessed the event from a few feet away, resumed the prayer service after the man was escorted out. Bishop Daly told OSV News he was grateful for the quick security response and that no one was hurt. He said the attack raises questions about mental illness and possible demonic affliction, and the importance of the Church’s role in outreach and healing. The bishop said that he feels that the Church has a responsibility to follow up with this man and his needs.

The attack, he said, “calls attention to both illness on all levels and the importance to heal and ask Mary’s intercession.”

OSV News

Cardinal

HOLOCAUST CANNOT BE FORGOTTEN OR DENIED, POPE SAYS

VATICAN CITY • “The horror of the extermination of millions of Jews and people of other faiths” before and during World War II “can neither be forgotten nor denied,” Pope Francis said.

After reciting the Angelus prayer Jan. 26 with visitors in St. Peter’s Square, the Pope drew their attention to the following day’s commemoration of International Holocaust Remembrance Day. “Eighty years have passed since the liberation of the Auschwitz concentration camp,” the Pope noted.

Soviet troops liberated the camp Jan. 27, 1945. The Auschwitz-Birkenau camp complex was the largest of the Nazi work and death camps; an estimated 1.1 million of the more than 6 million victims of the Holocaust died there.

By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service

POPE FRANCIS, SWEDEN’S CARDINAL MOURN VICTIMS OF DEADLY MASS SHOOTING

MALMÖ, Sweden • Pope Francis said he was “deeply saddened” by the tragic shooting in a Swedish school, sending “assurance of his spiritual closeness to all affected by this traumatic incident.”

The Feb. 5 telegram, signed by the Vatican’s secretary of state, Cardinal Pietro Parolin, said that the pontiff “offers prayers for the repose of the souls of those who have died.”

Cardinal Anders Arborelius of Stockholm expressed sorrow following Sweden’s deadliest mass shooting in history on Feb. 4, where 11 people, including the masked gunman, were killed in Örebro. In a Feb. 5 statement, Cardinal Arborelius decried the rising violence in Sweden, calling for God’s help to bring harmony and goodness to the country. While in Rome for the Nordic bishops’ conference’s Jubilee pilgrimage, he pledged to return to Sweden on Feb. 6. St. Eskil’s Catholic Church in Örebro will remain open for prayer, with an evening Mass

to be celebrated for the victims Feb. 5. Police continued to investigate the incident, which took place at an adult education center. Sweden’s King Carl XVI Gustaf and Justice Minister Gunnar Strömmer condemned the shooting, noting its deep impact on the nation.

By OSV News

HUMAN TRAFFICKING IS A DISGRACE, POPE SAYS ON EVE OF WORLD DAY OF PRAYER

VATICAN CITY • The fight against human trafficking requires a global response and coordinated efforts at every level, Pope Francis said. He urged everyone, “especially representatives of governments and organizations that share this commitment, to join us, animated by prayer, to promote initiatives in defense of human dignity, for the elimination of human trafficking in all its forms and for the promotion of peace in the world.” His appeal was part of a message released Feb. 7 for the International Day of Prayer and Awareness against Human Trafficking, observed Feb. 8, the Feast of St. Josephine Bakhita.

Trafficking is a complex problem that is “fuelled by wars, conflicts, famine and the consequences of climate change,” the Pope wrote. “It therefore requires global responses and a common effort, at all

A tapestry portrait of St. Josephine Bakhita, an African slave who died in 1947, hangs from the facade of St. Peter’s Basilica during her canonization in 2000 at the Vatican. St. Bakhita was born in the Darfur region of what is now Sudan. OSV News photo/L’Osservatore Romano via Reuters

levels, to tackle it.”

“Together – trusting in the intercession of St. Bakhita – we can make a great effort and create the conditions for trafficking and exploitation to be banned and for respect for fundamental human rights to prevail, in fraternal recognition of common humanity,” he wrote.

By Catholic News Service

Pope Francis enters the main gate of the Auschwitz Nazi death camp in Oswiecim, Poland, in this 2016 file photo. CNS photo/Alessia Giuliani, pool

Audited financials disprove claims the Church profits from refugee work

BY KATE SCANLON  OSV News

WASHINGTON • Claims that the U.S. bishops’ conference profits from its partnership with the government to assist refugee populations that qualify for federal assistance, and that the Catholic Church facilitates illegal immigration are “just wrong,” said William Canny, the U.S. bishops’ migration director.

Canny, executive director of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Migration and Refugee Services, made the comments in an interview Jan. 30 with OSV News in the wake of remarks by Vice President JD Vance and President Donald Trump’s press secretary.

Vance, who is Catholic, questioned the motives of the U.S. bishops’ criticism of Trump’s new immigration policies in a Jan. 26 interview – including reducing restrictions on raids on Churches and schools. He asked if the bishops are actually concerned about receiving federal resettlement funding and “their bottom line.”

The same week, in her debut press briefing as White House press secretary on Jan. 28, Karoline Leavitt, also a Catholic, suggested the Trump administration would seek to strip federal funds from nongovernmental organizations including Catholic Charities as part of its effort to enforce its immigration policies. In that exchange, Catholic Charities was accused of facilitating illegal immigration, claims the domestic charitable arm of the Catholic Church in the U.S. has long denied.

The USCCB website states that its Migration and Refugee Services “is the largest refugee resettlement agency in the world,” and that in partnership with its affiliates, it resettles approximately 18% of the refugees that arrive in the U.S. each year.

Audited financial statements by an outside firm show that the USCCB received about $122.6 million in 2022

and about $129.6 million in 2023 in funding from government agencies for refugee-related services. But the same statements show that the USCCB spent more on those services than the government gave them, meaning the conference did not profit from the grants, according to the conference’s auditors. In 2023, for example, the conference spent $134.2 million for such services.

“We have an obligation to the federal government, when we take these grants, to report back to them, to monitor the activities that these agencies carry out. We’re talking food, housing, clothes, medical attention, et cetera, so we have an obligation to monitor that,” Canny said. “The conference does not profit from this money. And in fact, we cannot, we do not run these programs without putting also in some private funds.”

He added the program assists them with basic needs like housing, medical care and job searching.

When it comes to immigration policy, Canny said, the U.S. bishops are

supportive of policies that are just, yet humane.

“Let me be clear that we believe that our country has a right to control its border and a legitimate right to determine who can come in and who can’t into the country, within the bounds of justice and law,” Canny said.

He added, “The sanctity of every human life is important to the Catholic Church, the God-given dignity of each person, regardless of nationality or immigration status. So some of these executive orders that have a tendency to disregard the humanness of people” are cause for concern.

Asked how they planned to engage with the Trump administration on immigration policy, Canny said, “Certainly as they organize and get people into place, we hope to be able to meet with them directly and discuss these matters as the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has done with every administration.”

Kate Scanlon is a national reporter for OSV News covering Washington.

A participant holds a sign during a recent interfaith rally in support of immigrants at Love Park in downtown Philadelphia. OSV News photo/Gina Christian

Faithful from four Mercer County parishes join in Jubilee pilgrimage to Rome

It’s MONITOR ENVELOPE SEASON!

Now is the time when many parishes conduct their MONITOR ENVELOPE CAMPAIGN. Parishioners can subscribe – or renew their subscription – to The Monitor Magazine and website through the envelope included in your parish collection packet. Simply fill out the envelope with your check and drop it in the basket when your parish takes up this collection.

NOTE: When you use your parish collection envelope, ONE-HALF of your $30 subscription payment remains with your parish.

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Throughout the coming year, a number of parishes in the Diocese of Trenton will observe the Jubilee Year 2025 by participating in pilgrimages to Rome or to other countries in the world.

The latest pilgrimage to Rome was led by Father Michael Hall, pastor of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, and director of the diocesan Office of Worship, and Father Stephen Sansevere, pastor of the three parishes that comprise the Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley. The two priests accompanied 45 pilgrims on an 11-day pilgrimage from Jan. 27 to Feb. 6. The pilgrims traveled to Milan, Florence, Siena, Assisi and Rome.

Highlights included visits to the Basilica of Santa Croce, the burial sites of Michaelangelo and Galileo, the Cathedral of Santa Maria del Fiore, L’Accademia, Basilica of St. Catherine, St. Francis Basilica, Santuario Della Spogliazione where Blessed Carlo Acutis’ tomb is placed, Basilica of St. Mary of the Angels, Basilicas of St. Mary Major and St. John Lateran and St. Paul Outside the Walls and the Vatican. The group had an opportunity to visit St. Peter Square where they prayed the Angelus with Pope Francis.

THE MONITOR

Subscribe directly through The Monitor Call 609-403-7169 or visit … dioceseoftrenton.org/monitor-subscriptions.

“It is my hope that more of our people have access to the important and enriching content that the Diocese provides through The Monitor Magazine and TrentonMonitor.com.”

Guiding Our Path

THE WORD

Father Garry Koch

FEB. 2  AS WINTER WANES, THE LIGHT OF THE WORLD SHINES MORE BRIGHTLY

Mal 3: 1-4; Heb 2: 14-18; Lk 2:22-40

The midpoint of winter, 40 days after Christmas, the traditional end of the Christmas Season, celebrated by many cultures in various ways, Feb. 2 is one of the highpoints of the Liturgical Year. As the Lord is presented in the Temple and as he is proclaimed by Simeon: “a light to the Gentiles,” the confluence of the celestial and the liturgical calendars becomes evident. So, even as pre-Christian cultures saw this day to be important in the approach of spring and the resurgence of light and life, so the liturgical calendar, too, proclaims that Jesus is the Eternal Light penetrating the primordial darkness of sin and death.

FEB. 9  IN ENCOUNTERING JESUS, SIMON REALIZES HE NEEDS TO REPENT

Is 6: 1-2A, 3-8; 1 Cor 15: 1-11; Lk 5: 1-11

Capernaum, a fishing village on the Sea of Galilee, was once a commercial center. Imagine the frustration of Simon and his crew as they caught nothing at all. Coming ashore they met someone new. He got into the boat and asked them to pull offshore and there he taught the assembled crowd. The sermon is unknown, instead it is on the effect it had on Simon that is the focus. When Jesus suggested that they go back out and try again, they cast out again and caught more fish than the boat could handle. Whatever he experienced, his response to Jesus is

even more astounding than the catch: “Depart from me, Lord, for I am a sinful man.”

FEB. 16  THE BEATITUDES SHOULD MAKE US VERY UNCOMFORTABLE

Jer 17: 5-8; 1 Cor 15: 12, 16-20; Lk 6: 17, 20-26

Jesus knows the struggles that his disciples will have with the world. Those who chose the life of faithfulness are blessed. But Jesus also speaks of “woes,” for those who do not prioritize the blessings. It is not enough that those who take up the task of discipleship are blessed; it is important to emphasize that those who do not will encounter strife. Today Christians are divided in response to the poor and marginalized. To those for whom wealth and power are important, Jesus is a fanatic. To those who understand that reliance upon God’s mercy is of paramount importance, Luke’s Beatitudes resonate with the very rhythm of the universe itself.

FEB.

23  AT THE ROOT OF MERCY STANDS JUSTICE GROUNDED IN LOVE

1 Sam 26: 2, 7-9, 12-13, 22-23; 1 Cor 15: 45-49; Lk 6: 27-38

In the Sermon on the Plain Jesus instructs his disciples in practical mercy. Mercy, however, doesn’t stand on its own; it is always accompanied with justice. While on the surface these might seem to be conflicting values, that is not the case. There is a necessary tension between the two – they ideally complement one another. Still, either justice or mercy standing on its own is incomplete. The call of Jesus is to live a life of mercy and justice, but it must also be grounded in love. This love reflects not only God’s love and mercy for us, but also draws us deeper into selfsacrifice and carrying our cross.

Father Garry Koch is pastor of St. Benedict Parish, Holmdel.

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The season of grief can become the season of remembering with love

In caring for children, one thing becomes very apparent. They thrive with attention.

Attention is a sacred gift. “The moment one gives close attention to anything, even a blade of grass, it becomes a mysterious, awesome, indescribably magnificent world in itself,” wrote Henry Miller.

When we give this kind of attention to others, it becomes a gift of love, one that nourishes and nurtures and helps bring a person into full bloom. When we have this kind of love, our world holds all the beauty of a tended garden. When we don’t, life can become a cold, dreary night.

THINGS MY FATHER TAUGHT ME

Mary Morrell

There was a time when I felt like my world had become an eternal winter, and I couldn’t see beyond the moment in time when my father died unexpectedly, leaving me alone to care for my mother, who was a hospice patient.

But time goes on. Today, it doesn’t seem possible that my father has been gone 30 years. Still, each year, as Valentine’s Day approaches, I am reminded of the last Valentine’s Day we spent together, him unconscious in a hospital bed, me in tears hoping that he could at least sense how much I loved him. He died the next day. When I returned to their home that night and curled up in my dad’s much-loved recliner, I wondered how long it would be before my mom would die. Anticipatory grief. It’s as real as the grief we experience when we lose someone. My mom died a year later.

At some point, during the coming years, I came across the words of Paul Gallico, the author of “The Snow Goose,” one of my favorite books as a child: “When two people loved each other, they worked together always, two against the world, a little company. Joy was shared, trouble split. You had an ally, somewhere, who was helping.”

 When we suffer losses such as these, we often look for reasons why.

This was my relationship with my dad and my mom. Gallico’s words spoke to me, not only of what is ours when we are loved, when there is someone in our life who gives us the sacred gift of attention, but what we don’t have when that someone is gone, no matter what the reason. It is the aloneness of grief, the dark night of loss, the realization that you are now a company of one.

When we suffer losses such as these, we often look for reasons why. But, in all honesty, no reason could console us or take away the terrible hurt and emptiness we feel. We may cling to

our faith in these inconsolable times, but even faith doesn’t erase the pain. I have found that the only way through it all is to consider grief a season of life, a season of loss that ebbs and flows and forever changes who we are. We never learn about it in school, but life will teach us and Scripture can guide us:

“To everything there is a season, and a time to every purpose under the heaven:

A time to be born, and a time to die;

A time to plant, and a time to pluck up that which is planted;

A time to kill, and a time to heal;

A time to break down, and a time to build up;

A time to weep, and a time to laugh;

A time to mourn, and a time to dance. …”

The writer of Ecclesiastes understood there is divine wisdom in all of God’s creation, and that we must embrace that wisdom in our own lives as well. The garden in winter is not dead, just dormant, having prepared for this season during the autumn. When the time and conditions are right, new life will spring forth from roots and seeds hidden from our sight.

It is that way with grief, as well. There will be a time of new life and a time of remembering, with gratitude for the gift of love that was, and still is, ours.

Mary Morrell is editor-in-chief of The Catholic Spirit, the Metuchen Diocesan newspaper.

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What are ‘non-sacramental’ marriages?

Q. I have heard some priests refer to “non-sacramental” marriages on the annulment question. I presume these are civil marriages. Is it so? Or do these marriages become “non-sacramental” due to the various other faults in the couple’s status? (Midwest USA)

A. Terms like “sacramental marriage,” “non-sacramental marriage,” “civil marriage,” and “valid marriage” all refer to slightly different things, even though they often involve overlapping concepts.

The Code of Canon Law gives us a basic definition of marriage itself in Canon 1055, when it describes the marriage covenant as that “by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of their whole life, and which of its own very nature is ordered to the well-being of the spouses and to the procreation and upbringing of children.” The code goes on to note that marriage is a permanent union (see Canon 1056) which can only be contracted by the free consent of the parties involved (see Canon 1057).

A matrimonial union that includes all the necessary elements – i.e., the true freedom of the parties, a basic knowledge of what marriage involves, an openness to begetting new life and the honest intention of both parties to enter into a permanent and

QUESTION CORNER

Jenna Marie Cooper

exclusive relationship – is called a valid marriage. A valid marriage is essentially a marriage where the wedding “worked,” and produced a true bond. In contrast, an attempted marriage where one of these necessary elements was absent would be considered an “invalid” or “null” marriage.

A valid marriage that is not a Christian marriage is a non-sacramental marriage, which is more properly called a “natural marriage.” A natural marriage is not a sacramental marriage, but this does not mean that a natural marriage is somehow sinful or bad.

 A valid marriage is ... where the wedding “worked.”

But when considering Christian marriage, the Code of Canon Law tells us that “(marriage) has, between the baptized, been raised by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a Sacrament. Consequently, a valid marriage contract cannot exist between baptized persons without its being by that very fact a Sacrament” (Canon 1055). So, for Christian spouses, their marriage has essentially been “upgraded” by Christ to include the graces of a Sacrament in addition to the goodness found in a natural marriage.

In broad terms, a “civil marriage” simply describes any marriage, religious or not, that is recognized by the secular state government. But the phrase often takes on a particular nuance when applied to Catholics. This is because Catholics, and only Catholics, are bound to observe “canonical form,” meaning that Catholics are required to marry in a specifically Catholic ceremony, or else to obtain a special dispensation from their local diocese.

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If a Catholic marries in a non-Catholic ceremony without a dispensation from canonical form, then their attempted marriage is not valid in the eyes of God and the Church, even if their union is recognized by the secular government. So, for Catholics who are, for example, married by a justice of the peace without the needed dispensation, we might call the resulting invalid union a “merely civil marriage.”

The sacramentality of a marriage is not usually relevant to the work of a marriage tribunal. Typically, a tribunal seeks to investigate only whether or not a true marriage – that is, either a valid but merely natural marriage, or a sacramental marriage between Christians – ever took place. Since a non-sacramental marriage can still be a valid marriage, and because the tribunal’s concern is with whether the marriage in question was valid, a tribunal generally would not investigate whether a marriage was sacramental.

Jenna Marie Cooper, who holds a licentiate in canon law, is a consecrated virgin and a canonist whose column appears weekly at OSV News. Send your questions to CatholicQA@osv.com.

Taking the time to celebrate marriage

BY NICK PETRILLO  Special Contributor

Are you or someone you know married? Are you looking for ways to celebrate your marriage on a day other than your anniversary? Don’t worry, this isn’t a pop-quiz. Every year the Church celebrates World Marriage Week, and the second Sunday of February is World Marriage Sunday. This is an opportunity for us to reflect on and celebrate this beautiful vocation and Sacrament. As a married man who loves being married (it is the best life I’ve lived), and as the associate director of Marriage Ministries and NFP, I’m sharing some thoughts on how to carry forward the spirit of World Marriage Week.

Did you spend hours painstakingly choosing the best photos and layout for a wedding album? When was the last time you looked at your wedding album? Have you shown the album to your children? Time and effort went into capturing the “best moments” of one of the happiest days of your life. Go through the album and share about the day.

 Reflect on how your marriage makes God’s love known in the world.

Reflect on why you wanted to get married and what your marriage has meant to you. What did you think marriage would be like? Share what you remember about the day. What were you looking forward to? If you could relive one moment of the day, what would you want to experience all over again? Recreate your reception (on a small scale)! Have a fancy meal and get dressed up. If you have children, invite them to

offer a toast. It could be fun to hear what they have observed about marriage from the both of you. Share your “first dance.” What comes to mind listening to your “first dance” song again?

FA I T H HOM E AT

Have your rings professionally cleaned and re-exchange them to one another by saying “Receive this ring as a sign of my love and fidelity in the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.” The rings are a sign to you, and to the world, of your vocation.

Haciendo que la fe se mantenga viva en tu familia EN

The best way to commemorate your marriage, however, is through prayer. Pray for those who were present at your wedding, especially those who have since passed on to eternal life. And ask those who are now in heaven, to pray for you and your marriage. If you remember the Readings proclaimed at your wedding, read them and if possible, attend Mass at the parish where you were married.

If you have children, maybe invite them to proclaim the Readings and then have a discussion on what the text means to them. If you can’t remember

your Readings, reflect on one of the many options available online. Any one of the nuptial Readings is fertile ground for Lectio Divina.

Recite your marriage vows. If the last time you said them was your wedding day, you’re likely not alone, but hopefully that wasn’t the last time you thought about them! How have you seen your vows lived out in your life? How much more meaningful have they become now that you have a life together to look back on? Knowing one another more intimately, how can your vows inspire your future? Reflect on how your marriage makes God’s love known in the world. Discuss how you can grow in this area and how you’d like to grow as a couple. What is something you want to invite the Lord into in your marriage?

Finally, pray together. Pray with and for each another. And, invite the Lord to bless your spouse.

Nick Petrillo is diocesan associate director of Marriage Ministries and Natural Family Planning.

Faith at Home is a monthly column coordinated by the Diocese of Trenton’s Departments of Catechesis, Evangelization and Family Life, and Youth and Young Adult Ministry. For additional Faith at Home resources, visit dioceseoftrenton.org/faith-at-home.

Making Faith Come Alive for Your Family

‘Celebrating the World’ St. David the King Parish, Bishop celebrate Word of God Sunday, Feast of St. Sebastian

BY ELISE STANKUS  Correspondent

On Sunday of the Word of God, when the Church affirms the power of God’s Word to unite a community, St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction, gave thanks for both its unity and diversity as it welcomed Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., for a Mass and St. Sebastian Festival.

The colorful and joyful event unfolded Jan. 25, beginning with a procession and ending with an International Food Festival.

 The more Christians were persecuted, the more they would multiply.

“It’s like celebrating the world,” said parishioner Soumy Jimmy, who attended the inaugural event that began with a brief indoor procession. After circling the sanctuary with a decorated statue of St. Sebastian, six parishioners placed it near the altar. Many of the 17 nationalities represented in the parish claim St. Sebastian as their national patron, said Father Jason Parzynski, pastor.

POWER OF GOD’S WORD

A Mass followed the procession, with Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M, serving as principal celebrant and homilist. In his homily, Bishop O’Connell noted that Pope Francis established World of God Sunday in 2019. He highlighted the importance of listening to the Word of God each Sunday and not becoming dis-

tracted from God’s message. The Bishop pointed out how deeply the Word of God has penetrated the hearts, minds and souls of the Church’s greatest saints over the centuries, leading many of them – like St. Sebastian – to give up their lives as martyrs for the faith.

“The heroic stories of these ancient early martyrs support the truth of the Church Fathers’ assertion that the ‘blood of the martyrs is the seed of the Church,’” the Bishop said. “The more Christians were persecuted, the more they would multiply. The witness of martyrs – the word itself means ‘witness’ – gave life to the Church, and their blood has borne fruit for and in the Church.”

Bishop O’Connell also spoke of the inspiration of St. Sebastian, who lived in the third century. When Sebastian’s faith was detected, the Emperor Diocletian

demanded his execution by arrows. However, he was saved and nursed back to health by a Christian woman named Irene, and later directly confronted the Emperor, condemning his persecution of Christians. When Sebastian was killed, another Christian woman named Lucina, who had received visions of the martyr, retrieved his body from the common sewer and gave him a proper burial in the catacombs.

“We who are the Church today must never give up doing good and giving witness to him who is ‘the Way, the Truth and the Life,’ which nothing, even martyrdom, can ever take away,” Bishop O’Connell said.

FOLLOWING ST. SEBASTIAN’S EXAMPLE

Father Parzynski said St. Sebastian

Father Jason Parzynski and parishioners of St. David the King Parish participate in a procession with a statue of St. Sebastian prior to the Mass celebrate by Bishop O’Connell.

“stands as a powerful example of perseverance and faith. His unwavering conviction in defending his faith, even in the face of persecution, makes him an inspiring model for living out the Gospel in our daily lives.”

Following the Mass, parishioners carrying a St. Sebastian statue decorated with ribbons and flowers led a procession through the building to the Great Hall for an ethnic feast, through an entryway decorated with Indonesian paper lanterns. Included in the bounty were traditional Mexican tacos, Argentinian empanadas, Ukrainian crepes, Irish soda bread, Polish pierogi, and Italian pesto bites. The evening showcased cultural dance presentations, including a traditional Indian dance performed by a group of young women in colorful saris. There was also a dance floor and karaoke contributions from many, including Bishop O’Connell; Father Jean Felicien, the Bishop’s priest-secretary and master of ceremonies; and Father Parzynski. Dozens of couples flooded the dance floor as the clerical trio sang Nat King Cole’s 1965 hit “L-O-V-E.”

The combination of St. Sebastian’s celebration with the International Food Festival was no coincidence.

Father Parzynski said that many ethnic communities celebrate St. Sebastian in their home countries and the festival

was initiated by two members of the parish’s Indian community who hailed from areas that have large St. Sebastian festivals. In addition the saint is also celebrated by immigrants from a number of continents including Europe, South America and Asia.

“By celebrating his feast day, we recognize the shared devotion that connects us across our diverse backgrounds,” said Father Parzynski. But the pastor said such gatherings “go beyond cultural celebration. They reflect the Eucharistic unity we share in Christ. By coming together in this way, we live out the Gospel call to love and serve one another, celebrating both our diversity and our oneness in Christ.”

Bishop O’Connell blesses a statue of St. Sebastian at the start of Mass Jan. 25.

St. David the King parishioners present traditional dance during the international festival held in the Great Hall Jan. 25. The festival followed the celebration of Mass by Bishop O’Connell.

the restrictions of COVID-19.

“After COVID, our parish suffered in terms of connecting with people,” said Jane Labban. “We took it for granted before. You have to support your Church.”

CONNECTING WITH OTHERS

Many parishioners personally connected with the celebration. Neena Kurian spoke fondly of the “grand celebrations” for St. Sebastian in her home state of Kerala, India.

Some said the evening was a part of an arc of community events becoming more common for the parish following

Parishioners credit Father Parzynski for the increase in St. David’s sense of unity as a parish, as well as education and outreach efforts.

“Father Jason has done a lot for education about the saints,” said parishioner Bob Savage. He called it “great participation” that about 300 people came to celebrate the parish’s cultural heritage.

St. Pio Parish celebrates refresh of 101 year-old chapel

BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

Parishioners in Lavallette gathered for a Mass celebrating the re-opening of the renovated century-old St. Bonaventure Chapel.

Father Joseph Hlubik, pastor of the linked parishes of St. Pio, Lavallette, and Sacred Heart, Bay Head, celebrated the Feb. 4 Mass, which was followed by breakfast and fellowship.

“[The improvements] mean a lot to me, and the people loved the way the chapel looked,” Father Hlubik said, noting how important it was to him to preserve the integrity of the chapel’s original ornaments. “As long as it gets regular use, it will get the care it deserves.”

St. Bonaventure Chapel was the first church building for St. Bonaventure Parish, which was formed officially in 1921; the chapel was erected in June 1924. Upon the parish’s 2008 merger with Our Lady of Peace, Normandy Beach, the worship site became part of St. Pio

Parish. The chapel is used for daily Mass, with attendance of 20-30 per day during the winter, expanding to near capacity of 90 during the summer months.

The enhancements began in early December, with the plan to address needed repairs and upgrades in the sacristy. Upon finding the stencil artist – Beth Gersten of Elizabeth Studios, Belmar – who had updated the chapel’s original stencils about eight years prior, the parish expanded plans to include refreshing the painted details.

“The sacristy was quite outdated; the walls and ceiling were bad, and the whole chapel needed to be repainted,” Father Hlubik said. Renovation moved forward with Gersten’s artistic hand, “and we decided to do not only the sacristy but the entire chapel. Pews needed re-staining, and the Stations of the Cross were so bland that you couldn’t make out the distinctions of where Jesus was.”

Renovations included complete interior repainting with refreshing of stenciled images, realignment of elements to be more symmetrical, newly varnished pews, enhanced Stations of

The santuary of St. Bonaventure Chapel, worship site of St. Pio Parish, Lavallette, is shown after refurbishments.

the Cross with gold leaf and installation of ceiling fans.

The sacristy was overhauled, with new countertops, sink and sacrarium for purifying vessels; a window was added to allow the sacristy to double as an occasional confessional. Attic access was also relocated to allow for repair work to take place without disturbing sacristy use.

Mary Guza and Cameron Evans, St. Pio parishioners, funded most of the improvements. The work was a combined effort of Gersten and local contractors Anthony Frankoski, Frankoski Construction, Lavallette; and Nial O’Mahony, O’Mahony Painting, Point Pleasant.

“I’m so grateful to our painter Nial –he always does good work,” said Father Hlubik. “Beth and her cohort did a beautiful job on the stencils and Stations of the Cross and repaired the feet on the Crucifix … and [added] a stencil around the Crucifix to focus attention on it and the tabernacle.”

Father Hlubik said he hopes to replace the worn kneelers when funds become available.

Artist Beth Gersten adds new and refreshes original stencil embellishments throughout the St. Bonaventure Chapel. Courtesy photos

STATE OF CATHOLIC ED

Continued from 21

some new excitement.

OSV News: What does the Catholic school landscape look like for students with special needs?

Donoghue: There’s some very good movement on that front also. The bishops voted (at their June 2023 plenary meeting) to reissue their pastoral statement on serving individuals with disabilities.

As a result, there are several groups of highly skilled Catholic educators with special education backgrounds who are taking a look at how we can help schools build capacity to receive students with different learning needs. It’s really critical. We see it as part of our prolife imperative. And it’s also helping all of our students to understand the nature of the body of Christ. And it has within it the beauty of the true diversity of the created human person. We want a sense of belonging. And also we realize that benefits all of the kids in the school. It teaches them the dignity of human life. We can look past what might be different about each other to see that one Creator in whose image we’re all made.

OSV News: What does the Catholic homeschooling picture look like?

Donoghue: That’s a new frontier, and one that we really ought to be dialoguing with. A number of bishops have entered into this (conversation) in their own dioceses. We’re happy that our (Catholic) schools are stable, but homeschooling is off the charts in growth, and a lot of that is happening in the Catholic community. ... it is to our benefit to see homeschooling as now part of the landscape of Catholic education.

OSV News: Recently there have been several reports on the mental health crisis among our nation’s children and young people. How can Catholic

education help address this issue?

Donoghue: I think this is an opportunity and an advantage for Catholic schools, because much of the anxiety, the mental illness, presenting in kids is rooted in things that don’t fully understand the human person’s needs. For example, children need to be outside. They need to be touching grass. They need to be climbing trees. Those activities are not just fun, although they are that, but they really are developmental aids in a lot of ways. And as we’ve become more involved in technology and video games and tablets, there’s less of that. And I think as a result the anxiety level in children has gone up.

The beauty of the Catholic school environment is that we see the need for those (non-technology-based activities). We see the need for children to play, to be free of those things. It is a cultural and an environmental priority that’s important for young people.

OSV News: What are some specific policies that are on your radar regarding Catholic schools?

Donoghue: One great opportunity potentially is the first federal parental choice bill, the Educational Choice for Children Act (a proposed federal school voucher, funded by tax credit scholarships). We believe it has a very good chance of passing in the next Congress. ECCA will help millions of kids across the country, many of whom are going to be enrolling in Catholic schools. It’s a way to help our Catholic parents who have a dream to send their kids to Catholic schools, but can’t imagine even trying to afford that tuition.

We still have to be in a place where people want to choose Catholic schools. So we have to be excellent, and we have to be distinct – through the distinct Catholic way of understanding what education is.

Gina Christian is a multimedia reporter for OSV News.

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In Memoriam

MAUREEN D. HINTELMANN, FORMER PRINCIPAL OF ST. JAMES SCHOOL, RED BANK

Maureen D. Hintelmann, a former principal of St. James School, Red Bank, and faculty member in Red Bank Catholic High School, died Jan. 12 in Riverview Medical Center.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Jan. 16 in St. James Church, 94 Broad St., Red Bank. Burial followed in Mount Olivet Cemetery, Middletown.

Mrs. Hintelmann was raised in Sea Bright and graduated from Sea Bright Grammar School and Red Bank Catholic High School. She earned a teaching degree at Montclair State University, Montclair, and a master’s degree in administration from Monmouth University, West Long Branch.

Mrs. Hintelmann and her husband, Tom, married in 1965 and raised their family in Red Bank. She began her teaching career at Deane-Porter Elementary School, Rumson, and after spending time at home to raise her children, she returned to the classroom several years later at St. James Elementary School where she taught for many years, and eventually became the principal. She later went to work as director of admissions at Red Bank Catholic High School.

Mrs. Hintelmann was predeceased by her husband, parents and sister. She is survived by her son Tom (Mindy) and daughter Nancy (Sean) Murphy; six beloved grandchildren as well as her nieces and nephews.

Memorial donations may be made to Red Bank Catholic High School, 112 Broad St. Red Bank, NJ 07701.

SISTER JEAN CONATY, FORMER CHANCERY TRIBUNAL STAFFER

Funeral services were held Jan. 21 in Our Lady of Peace Residence, Scranton, Pa., for Immaculate Heart of Mary Sister Jean Conaty who died Jan. 15, two days before she would celebrate her 94th birthday.

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In Memoriam

Born in 1931 in Providence, R.I., Sister Jean, formerly known as Sister Mary John), entered the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary congregation Sept. 5, 1948; made temporary profession of vows May 8, 1951, and final profession of vows Aug. 2, 1954. She held a bachelor of arts degree in English/mathematics from

Marywood College, Scranton, and a master of arts degree in mathematics from Villanova University, Villanova, Pa.

Sister Jean ministered in a number of schools in New York, Pennsylvania and Delaware. She was a pastoral associate in parishes in Canada, Maryland and New York. In the Diocese of Trenton she served as a marriage tribunal auditor from 1988

OBITUARY INFORMATION  Additional obituaries will be posted to TrentonMonitor.com as information becomes available.

Sister Jean is survived by a niece and members of the IHM congregation. Burial was in St. Catherine’s Cemetery, Moscow, Pa.

Memorial contributions may be made to the Sisters of IHM Retirement Fund, IHM Center, 2300 Adams Ave., Scranton, PA 18509

you’re looking for! to 1990. In Marywood College, she was director of personnel services and director of the Instructional Computer Center. She also served as a school librarian and on the staff of the Educational Enrichment Institute at the IHM Center, Scranton.

PHYLLIS J. JAWIDZIK, MOTHER OF PRIEST

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated Feb. 7 in Holy Trinity Church, Helmetta, for Phyllis J. Jawidzik who died Jan. 26 at age 95.

Mrs. Jawidzik was the mother of Father Edward Jawidzik, a retired priest of the Diocese.

Born in Helmetta and later moving to Monroe Township, Mrs. Jawidzik worked as a secretary for Johnson & Johnson. In Holy Trinity Church she was active with the Altar-Rosary Society and also with MOPS (Mothers of Priests).

Mrs. Jawidzik was predeceased by her parents and husband Edward. In addition to her priest-son, she is survived by a daughter, Maryann, and three sons, Thomas, Tim and Geoff and their spouses; nine grandchildren, and two great-grandchildren, as well as many nieces, nephews and friends.

Burial followed in Brigadier General William C. Doyle Memorial Cemetery.

that supports Pope Francis’ call to all the faithful of the Church to be “pilgrims of hope,” especially on Catholic college and university campuses, the Bishop said.

Reflecting on the theme, “Stewarding the Mission: Transforming the Enterprise,” the Bishop said, “Those words represent the challenges, responsibilities and duties that are ours as leaders in the ‘enterprise’ of Catholic higher education. We ‘steward the mission’ that draws from our ‘encounter’ with the Lord Jesus in his Word, in his Church and its history, teachings and traditions, and in the experience of academic communities we serve through our leadership.”

The Bishop concluded by saying, “My sisters and brothers, on this Feast when the Church, in parishes throughout the world, blesses candles, let’s make ourselves and our leadership ‘candles’ that light and illumine the paths of those in our classrooms and communities, seeking a hope-filled encounter with the Lord Jesus in the ‘temples’ of this world.”

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Following the Mass, attendees gathered for a festive reception and dinner. One president asked the Bishop, “You have sat in our seats as a university president with all its challenges, and now you occupy a different ‘chair’ as a bishop with different challenges –which position is harder”? Bishop O’Connell smiled and replied, “It depends on the day!”

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SCRIPTURE SEARCH

Gospel for February 16, 2025  Luke 6: 17, 20-26

Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the Sixth Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C: about right behavior. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

CAME DOWN LEVEL GREAT PEOPLE JUDEA JERUSALEM BLESSED ARE YOU POOR SHALL BE LAUGH EXCLUDE REJOICE BEHOLD REWARD

HEAVEN WOE TO YOU RICH WEEP SPEAK FALSE

TEST YOUR CATHOLIC KNOWLEDGE

ACROSS

3 There were 12 in Israel

9 Biblical trial word

10 There was none at the inn

11 Room where the Last Supper took place

12 Second word of a Latin hymn

14 Son of 30A

Answers on back cover.

16 She renamed herself Mara

17 Catholic actor, of Young Frankenstein fame, who was a novice in the LaSalle Brothers

18 False prophets come in this kind of clothing

20 An element of moral culpability 22 Service book 24 One of the prophets 26 St. Francis Caracciolo is patron of these cuisiniers

27 Condition of the tomb on Easter morning 30 Son of Adam

Brother of Jacob

Letter

Rosary beads 36 OT book that precedes Ruth 37 “…they who ___ and thirst for righteousness…” (Mt 5:6)

1 Holy object

2 What a catechumen participates in (abbr.)

4 Catholic football great, Knute

5 Catholic pastime?

6 Vestry

7 Catholic author of The Power and the Glory

8 “Hot Diggity” Catholic singer

13 Joseph was sold into slavery here

15 Order founded by St. Katharine Drexel (abbr.)

17 One of the 10 plagues

19 Countrymen of John Paul II

21 Governor of Judah during the Second Temple period

23 Dinah, to Esau

24 Catholic letters

25 NT epistle

26 Simon of ___

28 Saucer for the Eucharist

29 “For as you ____, so you will be…” (Mt 7:1)

31 One of the seven deadly sins

33 It is immortal

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THE DIOCESE OF TRENTON is committed to the initiatives outlined in the U.S. Bishops’ Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People and to its own policies and guidelines in regard to the reporting and investigation of sexual abuse allegations involving minors.

If you have been sexually abused as a minor by a member of the clergy or anyone representing the Catholic Church, or if you know of someone who was, you can report that abuse through the diocesan ABUSE HOTLINE: 1-888-296-2965 or via e-mail at abuseline@dioceseoftrenton.org.

The Diocese of Trenton reports any allegations of sexual abuse to the appropriate law enforcement agencies. Anyone with an allegation is also encouraged to provide that information to local law enforcement authorities.

CLASSIFIED Position Available

Executive DirectorMount Carmel Guild of Trenton, NJ

The Mount Carmel Guild of Trenton is seeking a qualified and experienced individual to serve as its Executive Director. The Guild is a Catholic non-profit agency of the Diocese of Trenton. The Guild provides hope and preserves dignity as it feeds the hungry and provides home health care nursing services to the elderly and disabled. The position demands an onsite presence with periodic evening and weekend work to attend events and meetings . Occasional hybrid work may be available depending on organizational needs.

Qualifications

Bachelor’s Degree is required. Master’s degree in social work or related human services/health is preferred .

If you have been sexually abused as a minor by a member of the clergy or anyone representing the Catholic Church, or if you know of someone who was, you can report that abuse through the diocesan Abuse Hotline: 1-888-296-2965 or via e-mail at abuseline@dioceseoftrenton.org.

Proficiency utilizing computer software and data bases for reporting and decision making is required.

Human services and/or not-for-profit work experience with increased levels of responsibility is required.

Some familiarity with financial development and fund-raising practices is preferred.

Five years of administrative, financial, and supervisory experience preferred.

Fluency in Spanish is preferred.

A respect for the basic principles of the Roman Catholic faith and a willingness to abide by its principles regarding the work of the Guild is required.

Skills

Outstanding written and oral communication skills

Proficiency with computer software

Mission orientation and servant leadership

Compensation: Salary range is $70,00.-80,00 depending on qualifications and experience. Vacation time, holidays and employee health benefits are included.

Application Procedure: Send cover letter and resume to bbreen@mtcarmelguild.org Deadline for applications is 2/28/25.

The position will be available after April 30, 2025. For further information about the position and the Guild, please consult the website at www.mtcarmelguild.org.

Gifts & Religious Items

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