Monitor Magazine June 2021 In Focus: Ordinations by Diocese of Trenton

MONITOR

THE

Official publication of The Diocese of Trenton

Vol. 2 • No. 9 • JUNE 2021

MAGAZINE

A Time to

REJOICE Tears of joy flowed freely as hundreds of loved ones and well-wishers witnessed the emotional moment at which Rev. Mr. Rjoy Ballacillo was ordained a priest by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., June 5. After more than a year of pandemic challenges and sadness, the Diocese of Trenton is blessed with abundant reasons to rejoice, including the Ordinations of Father Ballacillo and eight new deacons. IN FOCUS begins on page 7.

 INSIDE… BACK TO CHURCH: Bishop O’Connell sends message of welcome as

churches open wide their doors for their returning flocks. Check out revised protocols for churches in this issue in English and en Español.

Here is your sneak peek into the JU The official publication of the Diocese of Trenton in of St. Rita of Cascia National Shrine of St. Rita in the rant of a televised before the statue was principal celeb  A woman prays O’Connell, C.M., . Bishop David M. Ehrmann photos South Philadelphia the Feast of St. Rita May 22. Mike e for Mass at the Shrin

We Believe

A Saint for ple All Peo

For more than digital edition informed durin in-person Mass free access to t

nell  Bishop O’Con in celebrates Mass e the National Shrin . Cascia of Rita St. of

Bishop affirms life, legacy of St. Rita of Cascia during televised Mass in national shrine

y us breathe deepl of the grace she shares with the adding O’Connell said, Communion of widow,” Bishop chalof ntered her share had two saints,” Bishop that Rita encou and her husband life as well. nobleman. Rita O’Connell said. of lenges in religious ar marriage ended and the Sacrament ss, “persevered sons but their 18-ye murdered. Also particfor daily Mass and day of the novena Rita, nonethele said. nd was Each ” Bishop O’Connell when her husba d rs ipating in the NYK  Reconciliation. grew in holiness, ed the married life prove in-person visito 350 receiv ough . BY MARY STAD of had ge “Alth Rita Mass were Msgr r drew an avera He shared that er 900 people Jesus’ crown Associate Edito anoth from and e thorn to Thomas Mullelly, to the shrin mark of a single which has online, according about the es ead, ion for clerforeh servic quest the her d one on viewe episcopal vicar f there’s of thorns severed and a stigmata. In her e, shrine director. in of ion people have Trenton diocesan per tor dered Jerom devot ta] ey g direc consi han  “[Ri be and journ verin to Jonat of d life unwa come models for this said of St. Rita a, it’s why. gy and consecrate Brother suffered from bouts ss.” … “proposes sure Bishop O’Connell lived over six e way, concelebrated; for St. Rita of Casci on of the 15th later life, she had n walks in a uniqu grew in holine life she seminarians, who itional deacon for to her death. that each perso their are as The life and missi his homily, “The ghtrans illness which led ized a way” marked by history and story to spread throu Jeremy Hiers, a aswho was canon an unrepeatable just centuries ago, her “Devotion began n community, who e century woman ty of gifts and real multiple miras though she had les the Augustinia went on to becom inexhaustible varie a and beyond and s from St. Char well known to us ” eyes related. she was widely Casci n, a, arian her out nnell d herit cessio saint in 1900 and semin ssible close O’Co inter Marg p and , she e sisted od, uted to her difficult for n saint of impo is, life stories,” Bisho and virtue, passed away. Befor on nary, Wynnewo acles were attrib canonknown as the patro patience, piety p David to quote Pope Franc entered eternity Borromeo Semi e’s choir, of Rita who was known for her red during Bisho Then continuing on this world and Rita of Cascia spent . bers of the shrin killers a public the Bishop said time we join our 1900 nd’s causes was explo mem to in “Each visit veral husba XIII St. 22 , her said, Leo Pa. Se p giving ist Michael He C.M.’s May we the Bisho this date in 1457 ized a saint by Pope M. O’Connell, director and organ hearts to God, name p O’Connell said. ximately y devoted to her our her with natel Bisho appro ” n, open bears the along passio to and that pardo s ly e a year hand of saints her 76 years In his homi the music. nRita’s sons died Bishop the national shrin the company … the Sheerin, provided ia. Bishop O’Co s in attendance, noted that after to enter find ourselves in s for us as Catholic faith.” ate the feast day, 500 congregant St. Rita in South Philadelph for the Feast of nd, Rita wanted shared key point us and intercede To commemor were iated the life of after her husba refused a Mass who pray with Bishop O’Connell have pregiven roses which was born O’Connell assoc nell celebrated cast in Cascia but was and sisters who telling how she congregants were g Pope Francis’ All the monastery een a which was broad older brothers of St. Rita’s life, p O’Connell durin no, Italy, in with a quote from human adventure. resentment betw St. Rita of Casci . The Holy ork blessed by Bisho Lotti in Roccapare us on this same ng, the until she settled ies. Television Netw message from 2020 own herita blessi ceded one enem in Word Day final when his Marg s al the ipate girl and s g Saint Etern y on edral youn their and partic the Mass and for her husband’s famil she blessed the “Each saint has the network’s Cath how she was a very entering the … we all breathe when and said, r 1381; old ary Fathe years reliqu own a 36 and was part of ” interest in Bishop held 56 developed their Margherita was stinian feature series. common grace. ts Continued on she showed great personality and nal Shrine of own ed into the Augu Across America this Natio d obeyed her paren , which was held was finally receiv according to their Angelo Amaral “Today, inFather 40 years day Mass convent but instea when she entered a day, let life of holiness The feastDioc eseshrine’s solemn ing a e“perphysiatrist, sisters and lived follow 31 a full-tim old y to Cascia, on her feast saint,es E the community of Eachinclud in 1457. St. Rita hy and was 12 years ” intern al of provides ministr ITOR MAGAZIN personality… staff at noon, concluded and until her death ded to holin listsess, ionspecia arranged to a wealt  THE MON vocat60 rsalthan in religious life 13-21 and inclu more June 2021 her life both the patients in marriage they had sonal and unive novena held May rtunities lived so much of ians. had oppo physic “She Reharson ce ine in-pe medic St. Lawren mother and both virtual and the Mass, of s are connected with a daughter, wife, as ding y record and al recor Center alread a n Medic bilitatio and to view Department so . os from the shrine the Trenton Health residents of Morris Hall. . For dozens of phot of this article at TrentonMonitor.com ation can be shared that patient inform on Here, he is pictured ted the ordering see the online versi Technology has expedi to use at home with two women who ts 2021 of equipment for patien iPads have AZINE  June were praying in Our MAG ITOR rapy. THE MON 30 and allows for telethe Lady of the Rosary andtations ian consul helped with physic Chapel at Morris Hall. care. home for g family visits and trainin Darlene Mary Stadnyk photo ues colleag Brewer and and Morris nce ous adjustments Lawre St. of aral had to make numer Hanley, CEO d al’s ber after 30 his ministry. Instea Stankus, the hospit ne Marle and in how he practiced who will retire in Decem Hall, r and director of with patients at their service. of regularly visiting assistant administrato ce, aderie, quick to years of had to stand at a distan a true spirit of camar ancillary services, are he is es, and “There ns. bedsid speech balloo and yees,” she mask. The NYK  sm and strong sense ork among the emplo g a surgical gown and BY MARY STAD teamw wearin In of cite the professionali Focus to “We really have was was enter the room among the staff. g that the bond ” Associate Editor only time he could said, acknowledgin of family that exists seen ‘miracles’ here, usly and uplifting ent of Anointing during the panathan Davis was cautio d “It’s very encouraging administer the Sacram further strengthened said Amy Brewer, entere ss,” said Hanley, optimistic when he of the Sick. demic. to see patient progre director of physical was ” ilitachapel l deck. Rehab St. Lawrence Because the hospita “It was all hands on g therapy. “Here, we using a loyee and modate other pressin tion Center in April Stankus, a 33-year-emp converted to accom allow the patients to D testing , Father of Sorrows-St. needs, including COVI member of Our Lady wheelchair. try and reach their daily in Our ton, added that he said, “I didn’t Amaral celebrates Mass at Morris Hall, Anthony Parish, Hamil is recognized His biggest concern, full potential.” I came in. I sm Chapel way sionali the Rosary profes here the ’s of leave staff Lady the want to and made available their families. walk out of here.” FIRM which is livestreamed by the patients and wanted to be able to ts of both St. half weeks, how many people and encouragement FOUNDATION “It’s amazing to see to all patients and residen all of whom And after three-and-al staff offer assistance ts in the 1970s Hall, he did. photo St. Lawrence medica Lawrence and Morris Based in Lawwho were here as patien that’s exactly what l therapy session. Courtesy us Christ. a Trenton during a patient’s physica back to visit us or send have TVs in their rooms “I’m going home,” Davis, before he come renceville near the ning Bishop eased, he is hearte “It’s also in 1998 by 19, the day With restrictions being mas cards,” she said. intersection of Route resident, said May facility was dedicated fthe ilito state-o these a Rehab put residents join has return nce ts God center permitted to have eight to have former patien 206 and I-295, St. Lawre was released. “I believe John M. Smith. The all socially distanced. volunteers.” a 40-acre campus The staff goes above therapy department him in the chapel, hospital to serve as tation Center shares angels around me. the-art outpatient Villa helped apartand each of the and ex onsite me visits an he compl and pushed Hall Along with Mass, with the Morris and beyond. They that includes a gym PONENT a rotating basis to in myself.” an residence for reof daily living. The SPIRITUAL COM Morris Hall sites on Vianney, the dioces to give me confidence ment for activities and hear those of all among the al was originally 400 staff members Holy Communion St. Lawrence serves Davis, who is just one tired priests. The hospit Health and center employs about ons, and administer and St. Lawrence when faith traditi of services, includand STORY s Hall al’s hundreds of BY – JENNIF array Morri means hospit an as ic ssions e ER shed litation MAURO Confe provid econom establi rehabi who  Managing Editor the available to as MassSand and had a licensed litation, chronic ts over the years, was PHOTO BY JEFF called upon. But he is always spiritual outreach such Rehabilitation Center thousands of patien ing brain injury rehabi g s and are available BRUNO call, I go,” he – 50 for rehabilinonprofit is markin patients. “I get the ement, burn care service ion of the Sacraments anoint manag recept capacity of 203 beds pleased to learn the pain to practice their this year. skilled (long-term) me, day or night.” oments before said. “Anyti to patients who wish tation and 153 for its 50th anniversary respite care. he has hethe would ty of patien their stay. e atspriest, center received God first, keep nce provided majoribecom “Continue to keep Catholic faith during In 2020, St. Lawre nursing services. The Amaral the Rev. Mr. more BallaciWhile llo listene intentl lic, Father is much Rjoy g,” Davis said in nts and 15,000 26, 1971, and was y to the First Reading The 50th anniversary encountered aredCatho its first patient April pushing and keep smilin e to the staff. services to 1,350 inpatie t of theJeremi atholic patients establishmenfrom George W. Ahr May visits. messag ministers to non-C alsoah. than celebrating the “Before dedicated by Bishop his congratulatory outpatient therapy al es, spiritu advanc its I receive formed to izing you inwho the womb, might want Lord answere and hospital and recognI knew you; 22, 1971. in in Y’S NEEDS with themd me … To whomever I before increased demand Amaral, chapla born ling. MEETING TODA I He prays counse In 1983, because of said Father Angelodedicated s Hall. you were send you, you shall go; whateve offers a wide s, the center was r I comand Morriyou, a prophet tooffers the nations a blessing. mand you, Today, St. Lawrence both St. LawrenceI appointeour faith as for rehabilitation service  “Here, we allow the people inyou shall t 26 beds speak.” ting d you,” the Reading proclaim especially when sub-acute services temporarily conver “I believe s. that “When “We are also celebra range of acute and in thethat – that the I heard reach permitted to rm “‘Ah, Lord tional theraGOD!’ting are celebra that by being to rehabilitation use. I said, ‘I doare Lord said. “We they feelwill not he ” sick, know g physical and occupa lics, patients to try and cludin Catho from long-te care always of ly feelme – that gave be with how to speak. recreation actual a CertiflivesI of they amalltoo me young!’ of a priest, therapy, therapeutic formally submitted ce of Jesus in the But ce the l.” presen center speech presen py, ntia the strength The me not and pote courage to fulfill my minis” he said. “It’s their full logical services. the 26 beds perpast 50 years.” the comfort of Jesus, and social and psycho our patients over the icate of Need to make programs for where they find com. In November mic, Father Amthey want to see or There are specialized Because of the pande the manent for rehabilitation feel ers, ts d how disord patien grante the ogic limited of health , neurol through me Pandemic restrictions brain injury, stroke 1990, the department that St. Lawrence fort. It is in r me, h fully , beds, directo 10 amputhroug , is of nsored it therapy l ion sonism an-spo presence of Jesus, Amy Brewer, physica orthopedics, Parkin Davis to approval for an expans the 116-bed, dioces ” r of rehabilitaescorts patient Nathan hospital that nce rehabilitation, Jesus reaches them. Rehabilitation Center, tees, vestibular/bala bringing the total numbe credited rehabilitation Mary Stadnyk photo well as services for nt and outpatient 25 a meeting on May 19. a driver program, as tion beds to 86. provides both inpatie MAGAZINE al of Bishop THE MONITOR patients needing carits golden jubilee. June 2021  In 1993, with the approv medically complex care could celebrate e management. The to enjoy a dinner uction began on a able perativ constr was post-o Reiss, staff or C. the diac John But project, and the new both the facility and five-year renovation held on April 26 and ted with banners its grounds were decora

This is the last selecting one

p Step By Ste s on patient of succes St. Lawrence bases 50 years ity outreach priority, collaboration, commun

 At the Mass that would ordain him to the the altar of Trenton’s St. Mary of the Assump

‘Grace is Fully alive’

Father Rjoy Ballacillo ordained to pries

thood

24 24

try,” the 26-yearold said. Indeed, a supportive strength was palpable throughout St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton , as Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., celebrated the June 5 Ordination Mass of Father Rjoy Ballacillo. The voices of nearly 50 conceleb rating priests and more than 100 faithful joined the diocesan Festival Choir in songs of faith during the Mass, which was livestreamed on all diocesan media platforms. In addition, Father Ballacillo’s

2021 June2021 ZINE  June MAGAZINE ORMAGA MONITOR THEMONIT THE

THE THEMONITO MONITORRMAGAZI MAGAZINE NE  June June2021 2021

Bishop O’Connell anoints with sacred Oil of Chrism and wraps with linen cloth the hands of Father Rjoy Ballacillo.

Before the ordination Mass, Bishop O’Connell bl Ballacillo will use in his priestly ministry.

what you preach … will lead you to counsel, to seek and to save the lost; will bring light to their dark places; will turn time into eternity as you mirror the face, the heart of Christ, who came to serve and not to be served,” Bishop O’Connell continued. “All this you will do, even when you stumble along the way, because of the gift you receive this day in love.” At the conclusion of his homily, Bishop O’Connell called then-Deacon Ballacillo to the Promise of the Elect, and he declared his intention to assume the responsibilities of the priest. He walked over to the Bishop and kneeled, putting his hands in those of his shepherd and promised obedience. Deacon Ballacillo lie prostrate on the floor of the sanctuary as the solemn chant of the Litany of Saints echoed throughout the Cathedral. He then once again kneeled before the Bishop so Trenton’s shepherd could impose his hands on the soon-to-be priest’s head, a

In his homily, Bishop O’Conne ll spoke on how the younger Ballacillo was chosen for the priesthood by God. “God wanted YOU to receive this gift,” he preached. “Believe that with every fiber of your being. … The gift you receive this day will bring the God of heaven and earth to the altar, to bread and wine at your hands; will guide the consciences of those who listen to your words and see your example; will make believers of those who doubt and strength en the faith of those who do believe.” Newly-ordained Father Rjoy “The gift you receive this Ballacillo receives day will a hug from his brother, Father reveal the truth of God’s Roy Ballacillo, Word through who also acted as his vesting priest.

June 2

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priesthood June 6, Deacon Rjoy Ballacillo lies before ption Cathedral during the Litany of the Saints.

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gesture indicating the bestowin g of the Holy Spirit. Afterward, the voices of the Festival Choir rang out as the Diocese’s priests each laid their own hands upon Father Ballacillo’s head. Father Roy Ballacillo then bestowed Continued on 10

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ON THE COVER Placing his hands on the head of soon-to-be Father Rjoy Ballacillo, signifying the bestowing of the Holy Spirit, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., confers the Sacrament of Holy Orders, officially making him the newest priest for the Diocese of Trenton on June 5 in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton. Jeff Bruno photo Coverage on pages 8-11

32-35

Contents 5-6  From the Bishop

‘God wanted you to receive this gift,’ Bishop preaches in priest’s Ordination Day homily; a note of thanks after illness; return to church

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Trenton Diocese celebrates the Ordinations of a new priest and eight new deacons

23  Issues & Advocacy Religious Freedom Week stands as stalwart reminder to pray, defend right to worship

29-31  We Believe Healing of mind, body, spirit explored at NJ Charismatic Conference; Bishop celebrates EWTN-televised Mass in Philadelphia’s St. Rita Shrine

32-35  COVID Updates Diocese lifts many COVID-based protocols; faithful return to church with joy after lifting of dispensation

42-43  El Anzuelo La diócesis alienta el regreso a la iglesia, levanta muchos protocolos del COVID

REGULAR FEATURES 22  Viewpoints 37  Pope Francis 40-41  World & Nation 44-46  Insight from Fathers Koch & Doyle 59  Fun & Games June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 3

Reader’s Corner

Finding your vocation a

true gift from God

he week after Memorial Day, I visited the new pool house at the Catholic Youth Organization of Mercer County in

Yardville. It was a drizzly Thursday morning, and as I prepared to meet with Tom Mladenetz, CYO Mercer executive director, I couldn’t help but remember the first time I met Tom – summer 2016, one of my first weeks on the job. He greeted me the same way this time as he did the first – with a friendly smile that reaches his eyes and a genuine happiness for the CYO that radiates from within. The family atmosphere that surrounds this Catholic social service agency I’m sure has a lot to do with Tom’s nearly 30-year run with the CYO and the love and pride that comes with his vocation. Vocation. The word has been on my mind a lot in the past few weeks, especially with the addition of eight new deacons and a priest in the Diocese of Trenton. “You were chosen for this gift, set apart from all else that you could have been in this world, because God wanted YOU to receive this gift.” Though those words were spoken by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., during the June 5 Ordination Mass for Father Rjoy Ballacillo, I don’t think there could be a single person who hasn’t considered that sentiment in some way. Father Ballacillo joined the seminary at age 11 in the Philippines. So dedicated to his vocation was he that he followed his older brother, Father Roy Ballacillo, to New Jersey. Both were seminarians in the Diocese and now priests who serve its faithful. Similarly, the eight deacons worked for five years minimum to see their vocation come to fruition. “Being a deacon and being the person God wants him to be means everything to him,” Ellen Remick said of her newly ordained

From

JENNIFER MAURO Managing Editor

husband, Paul. Vocation. I’m reminded of Ephesians, which says, “Grace was given to each of us according to the measure of Christ’s gift. He gave some as apostles, others as prophets, others as evangelists, others as pastors and teachers to equip the holy ones for the work of the ministry. For building up the Body of Christ.” Before I started at The Monitor, I worked in secular press for more than 15 years. But I never considered journalism a vocation. Until now. What changed? I did – through your faith and what you taught me about mine. By welcoming me into your parishes, lives and homes in the happiest and saddest moments, you showed me strength and hope and inspired me to evangelize by telling your stories. The youth of this Diocese taught me they have a strong and educated voice full of desires to make this world a better place – and not to shy away from using our voices for the Lord. The priests

Jennifer Mauro, right, interviews Marie Tasy, executive director of New Jersey Right to Life, at the Statehouse in Trenton in fall 2016 regarding assisted suicide legislation. This issue of the magazine is Mauro’s last as managing editor of The Monitor. Joe Moore photo

4 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

have shown me the true meaning of camaraderie, a family of brothers who often look upon their shepherd as a father. And the religious sisters have demonstrated how they open wide their hearts to teach and mentor everyone they meet – including me. The Bishop and Chancery staff taught me about evangelization – how to take it from the pages of the Bible and live it openly – and The Monitor team and its freelance partners have etched in my heart that love and solidarity run beyond familial roots. Just as the Lord opened a door for me to join The Monitor, the Holy Spirit has laid a path for me to move on. This is my last issue with The Monitor, but thanks to all of you, it is not the end of my career in Catholic journalism. It’s just the beginning because, you, Diocese of Trenton, helped me find my vocation as a Catholic writer. And for that, I will be eternally grateful. The people on the pages of this magazine every month embrace their lives – difficulties and all – and strive to live and share the Gospel. You will continue to read about them thanks to the dedicated Monitor staff and our faith-filled freelance writers and photographers. Please continue to support their vocation so that they, too, can “build up the Body of Christ.” Peace be with you.

From the Bishop

Set Apart Bishop: ‘You were chosen for this gift … strive to be holy’ Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., delivered the following homily June 5 during the Ordination to the Priesthood of Deacon Rjoy Ballacillo in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton.

eacon Ballacillo, consider the life and mission you are about to undertake by the laying on of my hands as Successor to the Apostles and by the consecratory prayer as a gift. Use it well. The gift of priesthood is given to you by God and by the Church for your own sanctification and for the sanctification of the people of God to whom you, in turn, will be given by God and by the Church, by me as your Bishop. You were chosen for this gift, set apart from all else that you could have been in this world, because God wanted YOU to receive this gift. Believe that with every A Message from fiber of your being: BISHOP DAVID M. with the conviction O’CONNELL, C.M. of your mind; with the beating of your heart; with the depth of your soul, with the sweat of your brow. The words that the Church addresses to you today will make that abundantly clear to you ... and to us all. Listen to them and make them your own, for they, too, are themselves a gift to guide all you will do. The gift you receive this day will bring the God of heaven and earth to the altar, to bread and wine at your hands; will guide the consciences of those who listen to your words and see your example; will make believers of those who doubt and strengthen the faith of those who do believe; will forgive the sins of those who fail; will heal the sick and, when their hour has come, will lead them to heaven’s door; will teach others to pray and seek holiness. The gift you receive this day will reveal the truth of God’s Word through what you preach; will show mercy to those who have neither earned nor deserve it; will restore hope and justice to those who are desperate and forlorn; will lead you to counsel, to seek and to save the lost; will bring light to their dark places; will turn time into eternity as you mirror the face, the heart of Christ, who came to serve and not to be served. All this you will do, even when you stumble along the way, because of the gift you receive this day in love – a gift you humbly, unworthily accept as those of us, your brothers,

“Consider the life and mission you are about to undertake,” Bishop O’Connell preached during his homily for the priestly ordination of Father Rjoy Ballacillo. Jeff Bruno photo have accepted it before you – only to give it away … from the Cross, from the Empty Tomb. My beloved son, you cannot hope to be a good priest if you do not love Jesus Christ above all else. And you cannot love him if you do not know him. And you cannot know him if you do not make time for him in your life: reading his word, speaking to him, listening to him. Strive to be holy. And here is the mystery of the priesthood. Why you? Why any of us? The Scriptures say “Before you were born, I knew you; before you were born, I set you apart ( Jeremiah 1:5)” ... yes, for a gift; for a mystery; for a priesthood that invites us, my brother priests and you, the newest among us: to “know what you are doing and to imitate what you handle.” Together, then, we who have been ordained priests and you who are about to be, let us listen now to the voice of the Church, “ever ancient, ever new” (St. Augustine, “Confessions”).

A NOTE OF THANKS __________________________•

y heartfelt thanks to all the clergy, religious and faithful members of the Diocese of Trenton for your prayers and the many expressions of good wishes sent to me during my recent hospitalization. I only wish I could answer each message personally. I am feeling better each day and remain ever grateful for your prayers. May God continue to bless you and our Diocese. Most Reverend David M. O’Connell, C.M. Bishop of Trenton June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 5

From the Bishop

With joyful hearts, we return In advance of the return to Mass on June 5-6, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., wrote the following to the faithful of the Diocese of Trenton, desiring to encourage and explain the plans for in-person Mass attendance.

his weekend, when the Catholic Church in our Diocese celebrates the Solemn Feast of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, seems like the perfect occasion to welcome all the faithful of the four counties to return to full participation in the Holy Eucharist by lifting the dispensation from the Sunday/Holy Day Mass obligation that was granted a year ago March 12 to protect them from the virulent pandemic that threatened their lives, health and well-being as well as that of the community as a whole.

we are as a Catholic Christian commuThe Church has never required nity as well as the goal of who and what individuals who are sick, contagious or we seek to become along with our Cathotherwise disabled/impeded to observe olic sisters and brothers. We believe that this obligation, but such a widespread as the heart of our Catholic faith and dispensation given to all the faithful has not merely as a matter of obligation. been rare in the Church’s history. The In the past year, I was so happy to same exception continues to hold for the hear many of the faithful speak fresick, contagious or otherwise disabled/ quently and with such longing of their impeded, but the rest of the faithful are desire to return to Mass with their parasked to return to the normal practice ish communities in full churches once of attending Mass on Sundays and Holy again. Now, at long last, that opportuDays of obligation with their parish nity arrives and we welcome it and one communities as the dispensation fades another with joyful hearts. into our collective memory. Mindful that the pandemic is still The Catholic Church has long spoken of the Holy Eucharist as the “source in our midst, we should pray for its end and exercise reasonable care to do and summit of the Christian life (Vatiwhatever we can to bring that end about can II, Lumen Gentium, 11; Catechism in our communities. of the Catholic Church, 1324).” The Come back to Holy Mass! Welcome Holy Sacrifice of the Mass is, indeed, the Ministrare Ministrari root and foundation of who and what Non home!

6 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

In Focus

the PURSUIT of HOLINESS

Mike Ehrmann photo

hen a priest or deacon is ordained, there is always profound joy shared by their loved ones and those whom they have met along the way. But that experience of joy extends to all of the faithful, who are able to draw closer to God through the witness of these newly-ordained men and their promises made to lead and serve. Ordination is indeed an event that touches us all. As we, in the Diocese of Trenton celebrate the Ordinations of a new priest and eight new deacons, we recognize the gifts that they are to this entire diocesan family. As part of the Church’s observance of the World Day of Prayer for the Sanctification of Priests on June 11, priests are encouraged to reflect upon the gift of priesthood they

have received from Christ. But the faithful are also asked to mark this special day by praying for our priests that they may be strengthened in their ministry and remain steadfast in their commitment to the Lord. The laity also has an important part to play in the encouragement of deacons, who typically step forward from their roles as husbands, fathers and workers in business or industry to serve God and his people. They are leading the way in the pursuit of holiness, and we all benefit from their vocation. May God continue to bless them and may we all remember to fulfill our role of praying for them and supporting them as they bring all of us closer to God. Father Rjoy Ballacillo celebrates his first Mass as a newly ordained priest June 6 in St. Theresa Church, Little Egg Harbor, where he served his transitional diaconate assignment. Concelebrating priests included Father Rjoy Ballacillo’s brother, Father Roy Ballacillo, Father John Large, pastor of St. Theresa Parish, and Father Mick Lambeth, pastor emeritus of St. Theresa Parish. To view more photos of Father Ballacillo’s first Mass, visit TrentonMonitor.com>Multimedia>Photo Gallery. June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 7

X In Focus

‘Grace is Fully Alive’ Father Rjoy Ballacillo ordained to priesthood STORY BY JENNIFER MAURO  Managing Editor PHOTOS BY JEFF BRUNO

oments before he would become a priest, the Rev. Mr. Rjoy Ballacillo listened intently to the First Reading from Jeremiah.

“Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born I dedicated you, a prophet to the nations I appointed you,” the Reading proclaims. “‘Ah, Lord GOD!’ I said, ‘I do not know how to speak. I am too young!’ But the

Lord answered me … To whomever I send you, you shall go; whatever I command you, you shall speak.” “When I heard that – that the Lord will always be with me – that gave me strength and courage to fulfill my minis-

try,” the 26-year-old said. Indeed, a supportive strength was palpable throughout St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton, as Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., celebrated the June 5 Ordination Mass of Father Rjoy Ballacillo. The voices of nearly 50 concelebrating priests and more than 100 faithful joined the diocesan Festival Choir in songs of faith during the Mass, which was livestreamed on all diocesan media platforms. In addition, Father Ballacillo’s

Bishop O’Connell anoints with sacred Oil of Chrism and wraps with linen cloth the hands of Father Rjoy Ballacillo. 8 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

 At the Mass that would ordain him to the priesthood June 6, Deacon Rjoy Ballacillo lies before the altar of Trenton’s St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral during the Litany of the Saints.

family watched the broadcast from the Philippines, as they were unable to travel due to pandemic restrictions. The new priest’s older brother – Father Roy Ballacillo, ordained for the Diocese of Trenton in 2017 – served as his vesting priest. “I’m reminded so much of Jesus and the Apostles, especially the brothers – Peter and Andrew, James and John,” Father Roy Ballacillo said. “For a time, I thought my vocation to the priesthood is just between me and our Blessed Lord. Today, I realize it’s not just me. It’s between us – me and Rjoy and our Blessed Lord.” Father Rjoy Ballacillo agreed. “I know that he will be there for me. He is my role model. I am always following his footsteps,” he said, reflecting on how he entered the seminary at age 11 and followed his brother to New Jersey to prepare for the priesthood. A PERSONAL GIFT In his homily, Bishop O’Connell spoke on how the younger Ballacillo was chosen for the priesthood by God. “God wanted YOU to receive this gift,” he preached. “Believe that with every fiber of your being. … The gift you receive this day will bring the God of heaven and earth to the altar, to bread and wine at your hands; will guide the consciences of those who listen to your words and see your example; will make believers of those who doubt and strengthen the faith of those who do believe.” “The gift you receive this day will reveal the truth of God’s Word through

Before the ordination Mass, Bishop O’Connell blesses the chalice that soon-to-be Father Rjoy Ballacillo will use in his priestly ministry. what you preach … will lead you to counsel, to seek and to save the lost; will bring light to their dark places; will turn time into eternity as you mirror the face, the heart of Christ, who came to serve and not to be served,” Bishop O’Connell continued. “All this you will do, even when you stumble along the way, because of the gift you receive this day in love.” At the conclusion of his homily, Bishop O’Connell called then-Deacon Ballacillo to the Promise of the Elect, and he declared his intention to assume the responsibilities of the priest. He walked over to the Bishop and kneeled, putting his hands in those of his shepherd and promised obedience. Deacon Ballacillo lie prostrate on the floor of the sanctuary as the solemn chant of the Litany of Saints echoed throughout the Cathedral. He then once again kneeled before the Bishop so Trenton’s shepherd could impose his hands on the soon-to-be priest’s head, a

gesture indicating the bestowing of the Holy Spirit. Afterward, the voices of the Festival Choir rang out as the Diocese’s priests each laid their own hands upon Father Ballacillo’s head. Father Roy Ballacillo then bestowed Continued on 10

Newly-ordained Father Rjoy Ballacillo receives a hug from his brother, Father Roy Ballacillo, who also acted as his vesting priest. June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 9

X In Focus

Bishop ordained ‘humble priest’ Continued from 9

the vestments of stole and chasuble to Father Ballacillo, and the two brothers embraced as an emotional Bishop O’Connell looked on. Kneeling before the Bishop once again, Father Ballacillo had his hands anointed with the sacred Oil of Chrism and then wrapped in a linen cloth. After the Kiss of Peace – bestowed by the Bishop and then by the concelebrating priests who one by one embraced Father Ballacillo in a fraternal hug – the Mass continued with the Liturgy of the Eucharist. A FAITHFUL PRESENCE “Grace is fully alive,” a smiling Father Rjoy Ballacillo said after Mass. To the faithful of the Diocese, he pleaded, “Please pray for me, that I may become a humble priest, a faithful priest to all of you in the Church and a holy priest.” His brother reflected on his parents and siblings watching the Ordination Mass from the Philippines. “Our family has always been instrumental in bringing the faith to us,” Father Roy Ballacillo said. “On behalf of my family, I wish to congratulate him on his Ordination Day.” He continued, “Rjoy has this wonderful desire to serve God, and especially to meet people where they are at, to bring hope, love and healing to their lives. I’ve seen how determined and committed he is. I’m so thankful to be his brother, and I admire that he never lost sight of his vocation.” Kyle Galante, a longtime friend of the Ballacillo brothers, proclaimed the Second Reading during Mass. “To witness anybody saying ‘yes’ to God and leading a faithful

10 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

Father Rjoy Ballacillo distributes the Holy Eucharist to parishioners for the first time as a priest. life is moving,” said Galante, of St. Catharine Parish, Holmdel. “Father Rjoy has a very welcoming spirit, and I believe that his faith for building the kingdom and recognizing that we are all Church will come across in all that he does.” Angela Kinlin became friends with Father Ballacillo when he was a seminarian serving a summer assignment in St. Mary Parish, Colts Neck. “He has a beautiful heart,” she said. “He always felt like he had a calling to the priesthood, and he was determined to do it. “I always used to tell him, ‘What you will do one day is the most awesome thing that could happen to anybody: turn the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Christ,’” Kinlin said. Indeed, Father Ballacillo said he is looking forward to celebrating Mass, preaching and presiding over the Sacraments in his role as priest. “I want to be present in the lives of people both in the wonderful moments as well as the challenging times.” Bishop O’Connell poses for a photo with priests and brothers Father Roy Ballacillo, left, and Father Rjoy Ballacillo, right.

he Diocese recently celebrated the ordination of eight deacons and one priest. Check TrentonMonitor.com to view expanded story coverage and hundreds of photos from both Masses as well as the First Mass celebrated by the newest priest, Father Rjoy Ballacillo. Congratulations and God’s Blessings!

FATHER RJOY BALLACILLO on your Ordination to the Priesthood Welcome to the Presbyterate! From your Brother-Priests in Trenton

Congratulations Fr. Rjoy Ballacillo for your Ordination to the Priesthood! We pray that you will find great joy and satisfaction in your ministry.

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Prayerful Congratulations Rev. Rjoy B. Ballacillo

The Parish Family of

Our Lady of Good Counsel Moorestown Rejoices and Extends Prayerful Congratulations & Blessings to

Father Rjoy Ballacillo

“The priesthood is the Love of the Heart of Jesus.”

on his

Ordination to the Holy Priesthood.

-Saint John Vianney

We share your joy and that of your family.

Thank you for sharing your love with us.

Grace, peace and blessings to you Father Christopher Picollo, Pastor Father John Bogacz and Staff

Fr. Dennis Apoldite and the people of Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton

The Parish of St. Theresa, Little Egg Harbor, rejoices with

Father Rjoy Ballacillo

on his Ordination to the Priesthood. _______

_______

May God bless you today and always as you begin a life of service to the people of God in your special calling as a PRIEST. All our Prayers and Best Wishes. 12 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

In Focus

Men of Mission

REPORTING BY MARY STADNYK, ASSOCIATE EDITOR  PHOTOS BY JEFF BRUNO

he story of the Church’s deacons over the centuries is a rich and profound one, and a theme ties that story together over these many, many years. A deacon assists his bishop, who is a successor to the apostles, and offers their apostolic ministry to the people of God through the proclamation of the Word, the liturgy of the Church and its works of charity.

From the homily given by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., May 15, before ordaining eight new deacons for the Diocese of Trenton in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton.

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 13

X In Focus

he newly ordained include Deacon Philip Clingerman, St. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown; Deacon Paul H. DeGrazia, St. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown; Deacon Gene Lanzoni, St. Ann Parish, Lawrenceville; Deacon James M. Mackintosh, St. Rose of Lima Parish, Freehold; Deacon Salvatore A. Petro, Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, Hamilton; Deacon Paul Remick, St. Benedict Parish, Holmdel; Deacon Dennis Taylor of Resurrection Parish, Delran, and Deacon Jorge T. Valente, St. Rose of Lima Parish, Freehold.

14 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

The new deacons are shown following the Ordination in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton, with Bishop O’Connell, center; Msgr. Thomas Gervasio, vicar general, far left, and Msgr. Thomas Mullelly, far right, vicar for clergy.

The Parish Family of

Our Lady of SorrowsSt. Anthony Hamilton

CONGRATULATES OUR NEWLY ORDAINED

Deacon Salvatore Petro

Best Wishes and Congratulations to Deacon Dennis Taylor From your Parish Family St. Casimir Church, Riverside & Church of the Holy Name, Delran

“A soul united to Jesus is a living smile that radiates Him and gives Him” Saint Teresa Benedicta of the Cross

DEACON GENE LANZONI

St. Ann Parish, Lawrenceville

Congratulations on your Ordination! It is the culmination of a lifetime of devotion and service to your faith! We love you and we are so very proud of you! Love, Elizabeth, Eugene, Marisa, Michael and all of the Lanzoni, Raymond and Dovgala families!

May Almighty God abundantly bless Mr. Philip Clingerman, OCDS as he is ordained a Deacon for the Diocese of Trenton! With our love and continued prayers, The Conway and Taraba Families June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 15

X In Focus

he Rite of Ordination began with each of the eight men approaching the Bishop, kneeling and placing their hands in his and making a Promise of Obedience to him and his successors. The deacon candidates then lined up in the center aisle of St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral in Trenton, and showed their total dependence on God by prostrating themselves on the floor as the cantor chanted the Litany of Saints. Each man then came forward and knelt before the Bishop, who placed his hands on their heads, conferring the Holy Spirit upon them and silently praying the words of consecration.

Bishop O’Connell imposes hands on the head of James M. Mackintosh, ordaining him a deacon.

16 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

For more information, call:

Lay Carmelite Community #578

ngelica Carson, Regional Coordinator 530-672-8595

Byerley, Regional Formation Coordinator

Congratulations to

707-426-0314

Teresa Smith, Community Director

Deacon Gene Lanzoni

707-421-1491

elody McCloskey, Formation Director 415-377-1139

on his

Ordination to the Diaconate.

Visit the Lay Carmelite website at: http://www.laycarmelitespcm.org

mel's Call is a call to seek the face of God in

er, to find Christ in Community, and service

To Phil Clingerman on your Ordination as Permanent Deacon

nistry to brothers and sisters in need.

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catholic Church

1/17/15

Fairfield, CA 94533

May God’s love and guidance be with you as you follow your calling Congratulations Richard & Jo-Anne Ruff, Michael & Aixa Wellborn Michael & Janet Cerullo Eileen Mechler and Margaret Longto

FROM

The Church of Saint Ann,

Fr. Dela Cruz, Msgr. Casey, Deacons Jim and Frank, and the parish staff.

LAWRENCEVILLE

The parish family of

St. Rose of Lima, Freehold wishes To congraTulaTe

James Mackintosh and Jorge Valente

on their Ordination to the Diaconate.

May God grant you many BLESSINGS on this special occasion of your ORDINATION as a DEACON.

Congratulations!

may god Bless Them on Their journey as They conTinue To do

Rev. Garry Koch Rev. John Michael Patilla Parish Staff, Faculty, and Parishioners of

his will. All the best…always.

HOLMDEL

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 17

X In Focus

Bishop O’Connell presents the Book of the Gospels to Deacon Jorge Valente.

ith assistance from their designated priests, each new deacon was vested with the stole and dalmatic, the liturgical garments of their ministry. The men again knelt before Bishop O’Connell, who placed the Book of the Gospels in their hands, saying: “Receive the Gospel of Christ, whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach.”

Father Michael Wallack, pastor of St. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown, vests Deacon Philip Clingerman with the alb and dalmatic.

18 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

“I will go in unto the Altar of God unto God, Who giveth joy to my youth” Psalm 43

May Almighty God bless newly ordained Deacon Philip Clingerman and Deacon Paul DeGrazia as they serve Our Lord and our Parish Saint John the Baptist Roman Catholic Church Rev. Michael Wallack, Pastor 1282 Yardville-Allentown Road Allentown, NJ 08501

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 19

X In Focus

The eight deacon candidates kneel before Bishop O’Connell at the start of the Ordination rite.

Deacon Paul H. DeGrazia assists with administering Holy Communion to the congregation.

20 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

or expanded coverage, a gallery of photos and a video of the Ordination Mass, visit TrentonMonitor.com and click on FAITH & CULTURE>VOCATIONS

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Viewpoints

Fire, drugs and greed BY EFFIE CALDAROLA  Catholic News Service

t may have been a discarded cigarette thrown into a rag bin. No matter how it started, the Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire in New York City in 1911 took only 18 shocking minutes but changed history. The factory employed mostly young immigrant women, who labored long hours in a sweatshop for poverty-level wages. When the fire broke out, panic ensued. The only working elevator could transport only a small number of the 600 workers; the fire escape was so narrow that it would have taken hours to evacuate everyone. Women discovered that doors were either locked or opened from the wrong direction. A six-foot-high pile of bodies was later found jammed against one of the locked doors. The employer had refused to install sprinklers. Buckets for water, meant for emergency, were bone dry. When the smoke cleared, 146 people had died largely preventable deaths. It was the worst industrial accident in New York City up to the time. The late 19th century had given birth to the age of the robber barons. It was a time of unbridled and often unscrupulous capitalism, coupled with enormous greed. The Industrial Age had spawned unimaginable wealth for a few – steel, the railroads, the financial markets, industry of all kinds – and it took time and tragedy for the conscience – and the laws – of America to catch up. In the wake of the Triangle fire, labor

unions began to grow strong. Eventually, workplace safety regulations were passed, sweatshops were closed and minimum wage standards were set. Employment of child labor was halted. It took government action and time. Even today, unions have a tough time establishing themselves, and the COVID-19 crisis showed how industries, like meatpacking plants, have a long way to go in prioritizing worker safety. How greedy were the owners of Triangle Shirtwaist? Their insurer paid them $400 for each death. To settle lawsuits, they passed on a mere $75 to each victim’s family.

 It makes us pause and ask the important question, “Which side do I choose?” In a daily Mass Reading this month, we see Jesus’ take on some of his favorite subjects: hypocrisy, pride, greed. “Beware of the scribes,” Jesus said, “who like to go around in long robes and accept greetings in the marketplaces, seats of honor in synagogues and places of honor at banquets. They devour the house of widows, and as a pretext recite lengthy prayers.” In the book, “Empire of Pain,” author Patrick Radden Keefe details the “secret history of the Sackler dynasty,” the family whose company, Purdue Pharma, developed and aggressively marketed the drug OxyContin.

22 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

Triangle Shirtwaist Factory fire on March 25. 1911. wikimedia photo OxyContin is largely blamed for America’s scourge of opioid addiction. It’s a tale of a company whose research fell far short when it came to questioning the addictive power of their product. It was sales, sales, sales and the ever-expanding bottom line. The book makes fascinating reading, but if you want it summed up in one word, here’s a good one: greed. The Sacklers put their names on myriad philanthropic efforts. They gave away lots of money, but to museums and hospitals where their name was emblazoned for the ages. Like the scribes, they basked in the honor, and their product eventually devoured the houses of widows and more. Shortly after Jesus talks about the scribes, he mentions another widow, this a poor Jewish woman who places all she owns before the Lord. We’ve come to rather casually dismiss her contribution as “the widow’s mite.” No great buildings bear her name. Like everything with Jesus, the story is countercultural, topsy-turvy from the ways of our rapacious world. But it makes us pause and ask the important question, “Which side do I choose?”

Issues & Advocacy

Religious Freedom Week

to promote ‘solidarity’ with persecuted, prayerful response FROM STAFF REPORTS

rawing upon inspiration from great saints who remained faithful in the face of adversity, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has assigned June 22-29 as Religious Freedom Week – a week beginning with the Feasts of Sts. John Fisher and Thomas More, ending with the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul and including the Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. “During Religious Freedom Week, Catholics are encouraged to pray and act each day for religious freedom,” said Cardinal Timothy Dolan, Archbishop of New York and chairman of the USCCB Committee for Religious Liberty. RFW replaces the Fortnight for Freedom that ran 2012-2017. The 2021 theme, “Solidarity in Freedom,” expresses the Church’s solidarity with all those who “seek the good and who hope for fulfillment in the truth, which the Church teaches is ultimately found in Jesus Christ,” according to the USCCB. Persecution of Christians around the globe continues to be a concern for bishops. “The Committee for Religious Liberty has collaborated with the Office of International Justice and Peace to raise awareness about the persecution

of Christians in Nicaragua, and to lift up Pope Francis’ trip to Iraq this year,” the USCCB noted. “We need to be in solidarity with people throughout the world who suffer for their faith.” Pope Francis stated that “Solidarity means much more than engaging in sporadic acts of generosity. It means thinking and acting in terms of community” (Fratelli tutti, 116). Meanwhile in the United States, Catholic institutions such as schools, hospitals and child welfare service providers often struggle to carry out their missions while being allowed to uphold their Catholic values. For example, the proposed Equality Act bill directly impacts Catholic entities’ ability to minister, as it codifies new ideology of “gender” in federal law, forcing shutdowns of faithbased agencies that do not violate their religious beliefs to comply with new and detrimental state-sanctioned dogmas. “By requiring all Americans to speak

HOW YOU CAN PARTICIPATE  The USCCB provides “Pray – Reflect – Act” resources at www.usccb.org/ReligiousFreedomWeek—one for each day on different religious liberty topics. These materials help people learn about religious liberty from a Catholic perspective, pray about particular issues, and act on what they learn by advocating for policies that promote religious freedom.  Learn more about the Equality Act at www.usccb.org/equality-act and check out the USCCB Action Center at www.votervoice.net/USCCB/home for legislative updates on this and other important policy issues.  Connect with the USCCB Committee for Religious Liberty. Text FREEDOM to 84576 and Sign up for First Freedom News, the USCCB Committee for Religious Liberty’s monthly newsletter.

and act as if there is no meaningful distinction between the sexes and as if gender has no connection to the body, the Equality Act legally and socially harms Americans in serious ways and injures the common good,” the USCCB said. Further, the Equality Act “exempts itself from the bipartisan Religious Freedom Restoration Act, in an explicit and unprecedented departure from one of America’s founding principles,” the document continued, “thereby infringing on religious freedom and making it more difficult for individuals to live out their faith.” Examples of the Equality Act’s impact include forcing religiously operated spaces, such as parish halls, to host functions that violate their beliefs or close their doors to communities; requiring women to compete against men and boys in sports and to share locker and shower rooms; forcing faith-based charities such as shelters and foster care agencies to be shut down for not complying with gender ideology; and removing conscience-based objections by health care professionals, forcing them to support and perform treatments and procedures associated with gender transition and abortion. Another area of concern has been the growing number of attacks on Catholic churches, more than 60 since May 2020. “Catholics must remember that we worship the Lord who reveals the truth and beauty of the Gospel in his suffering and Resurrection, and that we are called to respond to aggression with compassion,” the USCCB stated. “Through prayer, education and public action during Religious Freedom Week, we can promote the essential right of religious freedom for Catholics and for those of all faiths.” June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 23

Diocese

Step By Step St. Lawrence bases 50 years of success on patient priority, collaboration, community outreach BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

athan Davis was cautiously optimistic when he entered St. Lawrence Rehabilitation Center in April using a

wheelchair. His biggest concern, he said, “I didn’t want to leave here the way I came in. I wanted to be able to walk out of here.” And after three-and-a-half weeks, that’s exactly what he did. “I’m going home,” Davis, a Trenton resident, said May 19, the day before he was released. “I believe God put these angels around me. The staff goes above and beyond. They pushed me and helped to give me confidence in myself.” Davis, who is just one among the rehabilitation hospital’s hundreds of thousands of patients over the years, was pleased to learn the nonprofit is marking its 50th anniversary this year. “Continue to keep God first, keep pushing and keep smiling,” Davis said in his congratulatory message to the staff.

 “Here, we allow the patients to try and reach their full potential.” Pandemic restrictions limited how the 116-bed, diocesan-sponsored, fully credited rehabilitation hospital that provides both inpatient and outpatient care could celebrate its golden jubilee. But the staff was able to enjoy a dinner held on April 26 and both the facility and its grounds were decorated with banners

and balloons. “We really have seen ‘miracles’ here,” said Amy Brewer, director of physical therapy. “Here, we allow the patients to try and reach their full potential.” FIRM FOUNDATION Based in LawSt. Lawrence medical staff offer assistance and encouragement renceville near the during a patient’s physical therapy session. Courtesy photo intersection of Route 206 and I-295, St. Lawrence Rehabilifacility was dedicated in 1998 by Bishop tation Center shares a 40-acre campus John M. Smith. The center has a state-ofwith the Morris Hall complex and Villa the-art outpatient therapy department Vianney, the diocesan residence for rethat includes a gym and an onsite aparttired priests. The hospital was originally ment for activities of daily living. The established as Morris Hall Health and center employs about 400 staff members Rehabilitation Center and had a licensed who provide an array of services, includcapacity of 203 beds – 50 for rehabiliing brain injury rehabilitation, chronic tation and 153 for skilled (long-term) pain management, burn care services and nursing services. The center received respite care. its first patient April 26, 1971, and was In 2020, St. Lawrence provided dedicated by Bishop George W. Ahr May services to 1,350 inpatients and 15,000 22, 1971. outpatient therapy visits. In 1983, because of increased demand MEETING TODAY’S NEEDS for rehabilitation services, the center was permitted to temporarily convert 26 beds Today, St. Lawrence offers a wide from long-term care to rehabilitation use. range of acute and sub-acute services inThe center formally submitted a Certifcluding physical and occupational theraicate of Need to make the 26 beds perpy, speech therapy, therapeutic recreation manent for rehabilitation. In November and social and psychological services. 1990, the department of health granted There are specialized programs for approval for an expansion of 10 beds, brain injury, stroke, neurologic disorders, bringing the total number of rehabilitaorthopedics, Parkinsonism, ampution beds to 86. tees, vestibular/balance rehabilitation, In 1993, with the approval of Bishop a driver program, as well as services for John C. Reiss, construction began on a medically complex patients needing carfive-year renovation project, and the new diac or post-operative management. The

24 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

staff includes a full-time physiatrist, more than 60 specialists and internal medicine physicians. Medical records are connected with the Trenton Health Department so that patient information can be shared. Technology has expedited the ordering of equipment for patients to use at home and allows for teletherapy. iPads have helped with physician consultations andfamily visits and training for home care. Brewer and colleagues Darlene Hanley, CEO of St. Lawrence and Morris Hall, and Marlene Stankus, the hospital’s assistant administrator and director of speech and ancillary services, are quick to cite the professionalism and strong sense of family that exists among the staff. “It’s very encouraging and uplifting to see patient progress,” said Hanley,

Father Angelo Amaral provides ministry to both the patients in St. Lawrence Rehabilitation Center and residents of Morris Hall. Here, he is pictured with two women who were praying in Our Lady of the Rosary Chapel at Morris Hall. Mary Stadnyk photo

who will retire in December after 30 years of service. “There is a true spirit of camaraderie, of teamwork among the employees,” she said, acknowledging that the bond was further strengthened during the pandemic. “It was all hands on deck.” Stankus, a 33-year-employee and member of Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, Hamilton, added that the staff ’s professionalism is recognized by the patients and their families. “It’s amazing to see how many people who were here as patients in the 1970s come back to visit us or send us Christmas cards,” she said. “It’s also heartening to have former patients return to the hospital to serve as volunteers.” SPIRITUAL COMPONENT St. Lawrence serves those of all economic means and faith traditions, and spiritual outreach such as Mass and the reception of the Sacraments are available to patients who wish to practice their Catholic faith during their stay. The 50th anniversary is much more than celebrating the establishment of the hospital and recognizing its advances, said Father Angelo Amaral, chaplain in both St. Lawrence and Morris Hall. “We are also celebrating our faith as Catholics,” he said. “We are celebrating the presence of Jesus in the lives of all of our patients over the past 50 years.” Because of the pandemic, Father Am-

Amy Brewer, physical therapy director in St. Lawrence Rehabilitation Center, escorts patient Nathan Davis to a meeting on May 19. Mary Stadnyk photo

aral had to make numerous adjustments in how he practiced his ministry. Instead of regularly visiting with patients at their bedsides, he had to stand at a distance, wearing a surgical gown and mask. The only time he could enter the room was to administer the Sacrament of Anointing of the Sick. Because the hospital chapel was converted to accommodate other pressing needs, including COVID testing, Father Amaral celebrates Mass daily in Our Lady of the Rosary Chapel at Morris Hall, which is livestreamed and made available to all patients and residents of both St. Lawrence and Morris Hall, all of whom have TVs in their rooms. With restrictions being eased, he is permitted to have eight residents join him in the chapel, all socially distanced. Along with Mass, he visits each of the Morris Hall sites on a rotating basis to administer Holy Communion and hear Confessions – and St. Lawrence when called upon. But he is always available to anoint patients. “I get the call, I go,” he said. “Anytime, day or night.” While the majority of patients he has encountered are Catholic, Father Amaral also ministers to non-Catholic patients who might want to receive spiritual counseling. He prays with them and offers a blessing. “I believe that especially when people are sick, they feel that by being in the presence of a priest, they actually feel the comfort of Jesus,” he said. “It’s not me they want to see or where they find comfort. It is through me the patients feel the presence of Jesus, it is through me, that Jesus reaches them.” June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 25

Diocese

Clergy Appointments Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., has announced the following appointments:  Very Reverend Dennis Apoldite to Episcopal Vicar for Mercer County, effective July 1, 2021, while continuing as pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton.  Rev. Michael G. DeSaye, parochial vicar of Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune, and Catholic chaplain at Jersey Shore University Medical Center, has resigned from ministry in the Diocese of Trenton effective immediately to pursue his vocation elsewhere.  Rev. Jean Felicien, JCL, graduate studies, Washington, DC, to vice chancellor for Canonical Services in addition to tribunal judge and parochial vicar, St. James Parish, Pennington, effective July 1, 2021.  Rev. Cesar Rubiano, graduate studies, Rome, to Catholic chaplain, Jersey Shore University Medical Center, with residence at Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune, effective July 1, 2021.  Rev. John J. Testa, to chaplain, Legion of Mary, while continuing as pastor, Corpus Christi Parish, Willingboro, effective July 1, 2021.

YOUNG MEN INVITED TO VOCATIONS MASS, BBQ WITH BISHOP An afternoon of discussion and camaraderie with the Diocese’s shepherd and priests will take place June 29 for those discerning a call to the priesthood. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., will celebrate Mass at 4:30 p.m. in St. John Church, Allentown, followed by a barbecue under tents on the parish property. Men ages 15 to 40 are invited to attend. “The aim of this event is to connect with potential new discerners, as well as to foster community among our current discerners,” said Father Jason Parzynski, diocesan director of vocations. “It’s a great low-key event to invite someone who is hesitant or just beginning to think about the priesthood.” The last “Come and See” discernment event took place in January 2020 before COVID-19; the summer 2020 barbecue was canceled because of the pandemic. In the meantime, Father Parzynski explained, “We’ve done oneon-one phone calls instead.” Those seeking more information, men currently in formation and ordained clergy of the vocations team will be present at the barbecue. “This is for those who … want to see what it’s all about – an opportunity to connect, ask questions,” Father Parzynski said. “The ultimate aim is to discern God’s will and to help them have the confidence to make the next choice – whether it’s to enter seminary or to go another direction.” Other “Come and See” events planned for the near future include an August pilgrimage to Our Lady of Czestochowa shrine in Doylestown, Pa., as well as the return of the Called by Name campaign and discernment groups in the fall.  Registration is required and can be made at www.GodIsCallingYou.org, or by emailing vocations@dioceseoftrenton.org. St. John Church is located at 1282 Yardville Allentown Rd., Allentown. By EmmaLee Italia, Contributing Editor

FATHER FELICIEN AWARDED CANON LAW DEGREE

Father Jean Felicien, left, is congratulated by Father John Butler, pastor of St. Michael Parish, West End, who traveled to Washington, D.C., for the May 15 commencement exercises. Father Felicien and Father Butler were in the same Ordination Class of 2014. Courtesy photo 26 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

Father Jean Felicien, a priest of the Diocese of Trenton, was awarded a Licentiate in Canon Law degree from The Catholic University of America, Washington, during commencement exercises held May 15. “I feel blessed to have the opportunity to study Canon Law, and I thank Bishop [David M.] O’Connell for allowing me to pursue my education in the field of ecclesiastical law,” said Father Felicien, who as of July 1, will serve in the diocesan Tribunal as adjutant judicial vicar and judge. “I am looking forward to joining the crew in the Tribunal and working together as ministers of justice in the Church,” he said. In addition to his Tribunal responsibilities, Father Felicien has also been appointed as parochial vicar of St. James Parish, Pennington; St. George Parish, Titusville, and St. Alphonsus Parish, Hopewell, effective July 1.

Diocese

BISHOP O’CONNELL CONTINUES RECOVERY FROM ILLNESS Following a brief hospitalization in late May, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., continues to recuperate from a medical condition while continuing his episcopal schedule. The Bishop was hospitalized May 28 after doctors detected multiple blood clots. After his discharge on June 1, the Bishop began what is expected to be a lengthy regimen of medication at home for ongoing treatment of this condition. Bishop O’Connell continues to receive many emails, calls and cards offering prayers and best wishes, for which he has expressed his heartfelt gratitude.

Top row, from left: Tricia of Florence; Kathleen Spivey; Elaine Molen; Mark Bolgar and Bethanne Warrack. Bottom row from left: Damian Sylvia; Corporate Citizen of the Year SobelCo of Livingston, and Donna and John Kuchinski. Photos courtesy of CCDOT

PETER’S PENCE COLLECTION ON JUNE 27 TO HELP POOR WORLDWIDE

CCDOT ANNOUNCES GUARDIAN ANGEL BENEFIT OF HOPE HONOREES

The annual Peter’s Pence Collection, a tradition of support for the Pope, will be taken up in parishes June 27 across the world. The collection occurs yearly on the Sunday closest to June 29, the Solemnity of Sts. Peter and Paul, as a sign that Catholics worldwide are joined together in support of the Holy Father. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, in materials promoting the collection, said funds raised are a response to the scriptural message to take care of the poor, “and is an expression of unity with the Holy Father.” The collection establishes this “through the ongoing activities of the Holy See and through the charitable works of the Holy Father on behalf of those most in need.” Funds from the collection have recently assisted with the building of a new medical facility in Bangui in the Central African Republic. During a 2015 visit, Pope Francis toured the city’s pediatric hospital with a donation of medicines, promising that he would not forget the country’s children. He was able to keep his promise with the Peter’s Pence contributions, which helped to renovate the existing hospital and build a new facility specifically for malnourished children. “The concrete participation in the needs of the universal ecclesial community has taken different forms throughout history,” the USCCB explained. “Collections and donations by the individual faithful or entire local churches raise awareness that all the baptized are called to materially sustain the work of evangelization and, at the same time, to help the poor in whatever way possible. By doing so, they build up the Church so that it will continue to minister to all for generations to come.” From staff reports

Catholic Charities Diocese of Trenton will honor those who have played a critical role in supporting its mission and served as role models in the community at its Guardian Angel Benefit of Hope. The benefit, which will be held online Sept. 9, is the organization’s signature annual fundraiser, raising monies to serve its 100,000 clients across the Diocese’s four counties. “The pandemic has profoundly impacted so many people and hurt them in ways that may take months – or even years – to recover,” said Nancy Tompkins, CCDOT director of development and marketing. “We will be here to help them in whatever way they need help, as we have helped people in need for over 100 years.” Among CCDOT’s numerous programs: food, clothing and temporary housing services; support for mental health, childhood trauma, addiction and domestic violence clients; Spanish-community outreach and, most recently, working with community partners in COVID-19 vaccinations. Without its supporters, Tompkins said, CCDOT couldn’t “do the work we do.” Those who will be honored this year are: Tricia of Florence, Client Achievement Award; Donna and John Kuchinski, St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, Richard J. Hughes Humanitarian Award; Kathleen Spivey, St. John Neumann Parish, Mount Laurel, Light of Hope Award, Burlington County; Mark Bolgar and Bethanne Warrack, Incarnation-St. James Parish, Ewing, Light of Hope Award, Mercer County; Damian Sylvia, Our Lady of Hope Parish, West Long Branch, Light of Hope Award, Monmouth County; Elaine Molen of Brick, Light of Hope Award, Ocean County, and SobelCo of Livingston, Corporate Citizen of the Year. From staff reports June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 27

Diocese

Two-year Encounter Ministries course coming to Middletown parish BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

he Diocese of Trenton Catholic Charismatic Renewal is gaining a new partner in its mission to promote growth in the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. Encounter Ministries, a Catholic organization that seeks to educate and train laypersons in proclaiming the Gospel, will begin operating one of its satellite campuses in St. Mary Parish, Middletown, this September. The two-year Encounter School of Father Jeffrey Kegley, St. Mary Parish pastor, second from right, takes a photo with memMinistries (ESM) program “offers an inbers of Encounter Ministries and faithful of the Diocese during the New Jersey Catholic depth formation in identity and sharing the Charismatic Conference held in May at the parish. Matt Marzorati photo Gospel through growing in the knowledge For those wanting to learn more about the two-year proand equipping of the spiritual gifts,” said Father Jeffrey Kegley, gram, the parish is hosting a Summer Intensive July 15-17, liaison to the DOTCCR and pastor of St. Mary Parish. from 7:30 to 9 p.m. on Thursday and Friday, and 9:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. The three-day intensive will provide attendees an opportunity to “come and see” what the Encounter Ministries School of Ministry will teach. Presenters include Father Kegley; DOTCCR director Jim Tortorici and worship leader Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., Father Jason Parzynski, Gez Ford. Keynote speakers from Encounter Ministries diocesan director of vocations, and two seminarians who presented at the annual New Jersey Catholic Charismatic are preparing for the priesthood for the Diocese, were at Conference held May 22-23 at the parish. the Domestic Church Radio stuBishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., Father Kegley noted, dio in Ewing June 3 to record a has welcomed the partnership between DOTCCR and special program, “On Discerning Encounter Ministries as a means “to support the mission of a Vocation.” the Diocese to make disciples who are equipped and sent The radio program, during to share the Gospel in their sphere of influence. Encounter which Bishop O’Connell and Ministries of New Jersey is combining the existing ministries Father Parzynski interviewed of the local Charismatic Renewal with the structure, curricuAnthony Gentile, 1st theology, lum, and anointing of Encounter Ministries.” Training through the ESM program combines Catholic St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, theology with practical experience, he said. “Students are Wynnewood, Pa., and Nicholas formed and sent as ‘disciples’ to share the love of Jesus in Alescio, who will enter pre-theoltheir daily lives and particular vocation,” Father Kegley said. Bishop David M. O’Con- ogy in Mount St. Mary Seminary nell, C.M., seated, and and University, Emmitsburg, Md., “The goal of the training is not ‘membership,’ but discipleship Father Jason Parzyns– to empower and encourage students to grow in sharing the aired June 4 on WFJS 1260 AM, ki, standing left, with Kingdom with those around them.” 89.3 FM, WGYM 1580 AM and seminarians Nicholas  Cost to attend the Summer Intensive workshop is $80 Alescio, center, and An- WSMJ 91.9 FM from 3 to 4 p.m. as – but $65 if registered before June 15. Registration and a full well as online at http://domesticthony Gentile. Staff photo schedule can be found at www.dotccr.org. For more information, churchmedia.org. contact Jim Tortorici, newjersey@encounterschool.org.

RADIO PROGRAM WITH BISHOP O’CONNELL HIGHLIGHTS VOCATIONS DISCERNMENT

An archive of the program is expected to be available on the diocesan vocations website, https://godiscallingyou. org/, as well as other diocesan websites.

28 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

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WE Believe More than 600 people attended the weekend conference, which included time for prayer and a healing service. Matt Marzorati photos

‘The Holy Spirit is Alive’ NJ Charismatic Conference invokes God’s healing presence in the world BY LOIS ROGERS  Correspondent

“

edemptive suffering is bigger than sickness and diseases. It’s not only physical pain. God wants us to unite our suffering to him in regard to healing ministry.” Addressing “errors and misconceptions” connected at times to suffering, speaker Patrick Reis explained to New Jersey Catholic Charismatic Conference attendees that “God is never the author of suffering.” He stressed the importance of “coming to Jesus with suffering and doing healing in a way that makes it normal.” “You don’t need to offer up your pain so that other people can be healed. Consider and reflect on endurance and hope when you unite suffering to God,”  “Let our light he said. The May 22-23 event drew shine before upwards of 600 faithful from New Jersey, Virginia, New Hampshire others – be and even Chicago on Pentecost weekend to St. Mary, Mother of authentic.” God Church, Middletown. More attended via livestream, as in-person attendance was limited due to coronavirus safety restrictions. The conference included Eucharistic Adoration, Mass,

For more photos, visit TrentonMonitor.com> Multimedia>Photo Galleries

Speaker Ryan Mahle addresses New Jersey Catholic Charismatic Conference attendees on the power of testimony in the healing process.

music, keynote presentations and a healing service that was open to the public. Presented by the Encounter Ministries’ School of Healing, the event was aimed at teaching and activating Catholics to be more effective ministers of Jesus’ healing in the world. And after a year filled with pandemic fears and anxieties, “it came at a most needed time,” said Father Jeffrey Kegley, liaison to the Diocese’s Catholic Charismatic Renewal and Continued on 56

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 29

We Believe

A Saint for All People Bishop affirms life, legacy of St. Rita of Cascia during televised Mass in national shrine BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

f there’s one question about the unwavering devotion people have for St. Rita of Cascia, it’s why. The life and mission of the 15th century woman who was canonized a saint in 1900 and went on to become known as the patron saint of impossible causes was explored during Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M.’s May 22 visit to the national shrine that bears her name in South Philadelphia. Bishop O’Connell celebrated a Mass for the Feast of St. Rita of Cascia which was broadcast on Eternal Word Television Network and was part of the network’s Cathedrals Across America feature series. The feast day Mass, which was held at noon, concluded the shrine’s solemn novena held May 13-21 and included both virtual and in-person opportunities

for daily Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Each day of the novena drew an average of 350 in-person visitors to the shrine and another 900 people viewed the services online, according to Jonathan Jerome, shrine director. Bishop O’Connell said of St. Rita in his homily, “The life she lived over six centuries ago, her history and story are as well known to us as though she had just passed away. Before she closed her eyes on this world and entered eternity on this date in 1457, St. Rita of Cascia spent her 76 years passionately devoted to her Catholic faith.” Bishop O’Connell shared key points of St. Rita’s life, telling how she was born Margherita Lotti in Roccapareno, Italy, in 1381; how she was a very young girl when she showed great interest in entering the convent but instead obeyed her parents and was 12 years old when she entered a marriage they had arranged to a wealthy

For dozens of photos from the shrine and to view a recording of the Mass, see the online version of this article at TrentonMonitor.com. 30 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

nobleman. Rita and her husband had two sons but their 18-year marriage ended when her husband was murdered. “Although married life proved

 “[Rita] persevered and grew in holiness.” difficult for Margherita, she was widely known for her patience, piety and virtue, giving her husband’s killers a public pardon,” Bishop O’Connell said. He noted that after Rita’s sons died a year after her husband, Rita wanted to enter the monastery in Cascia but was refused until she settled resentment between her husband’s family and his enemies. Margherita was 36 years old when she was finally received into the Augustinian community of sisters and lived 40 years in religious life until her death in 1457. “She had lived so much of her life already as a daughter, wife, mother and

 A woman prays before the statue of St. Rita in the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia in South Philadelphia. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., was principal celebrant of a televised Mass at the Shrine for the Feast of St. Rita May 22. Mike Ehrmann photos

 Bishop O’Connell celebrates Mass in the National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia.

widow,” Bishop O’Connell said, adding that Rita encountered her share of challenges in religious life as well. Rita, nonetheless, “persevered and grew in holiness,” Bishop O’Connell said. He shared that Rita had received the mark of a single thorn from Jesus’ crown of thorns on her forehead, which has come to be considered a stigmata. In her later life, she had suffered from bouts of illness which led to her death. “Devotion began to spread throughout Cascia and beyond and multiple miracles were attributed to her intercession,” the Bishop said of Rita who was canonized a saint by Pope Leo XIII in 1900. In his homily to the approximately 500 congregants in attendance, Bishop O’Connell associated the life of St. Rita with a quote from Pope Francis’ All Saints Day message from 2020. The Holy Father said, “Each saint has their own personality and developed their own life of holiness according to their own personality… Each saint, following a “personal and universal vocation to holiness,”

… “proposes sure models for this journey that each person walks in a unique way, an unrepeatable way” marked by their inexhaustible variety of gifts and real life stories,” Bishop O’Connell related. Then continuing to quote Pope Francis, the Bishop said, “Each time we join our hands and open our hearts to God, we find ourselves in the company … of saints who pray with us and intercede for us as older brothers and sisters who have preceded us on this same human adventure. … we all breathe and participate in one common grace.” “Today, in this National Shrine of St. Rita of Cascia, on her feast day, let

us breathe deeply of the grace she shares with the Communion of saints,” Bishop O’Connell said. Also participating in the Mass were Msgr. Thomas Mullelly, Trenton diocesan episcopal vicar for clergy and consecrated life and director of seminarians, who concelebrated; Brother Jeremy Hiers, a transitional deacon for the Augustinian community, who assisted, and seminarians from St. Charles Borromeo Seminary, Wynnewood, Pa. Several members of the shrine’s choir, along with director and organist Michael Sheerin, provided the music. To commemorate the feast day, the congregants were given roses which were blessed by Bishop O’Connell during the Mass and for the final blessing, the Bishop held a reliquary and blessed the Continued on 56

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 31

Covid Updates

Diocese encourages return to church, lifts many COVID-based protocols On May 26, the Diocese of Trenton announced a set of protocol changes as the faithful are encouraged to return to inchurch Masses. The revisions follow:

REVISIONS OF CURRENT COVID PROTOCOLS INTRODUCTION The Bishops of New Jersey have ended the dispensation from the obligation to attend Mass on Sundays and Holy Days of Obligation effective June 5-6, 2021, the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Christ. The faithful are to return to the practice of participating at weekly celebration of Mass in•church. As is always the case, the obligation does not apply to the sick, those with underlying health conditions, and those who remain fearful of COVID-19 transmission. Effective May 28, 2021, N.J. Gov. Phil Murphy lifted the mandates requiring the wearing of masks and social distancing. Yet, recognizing that the COVID-19 pandemic remains active, wearing a mask is an option for those who wish to do so. The clergy and faithful should use their best judgment to protect their own health and the health of their neighbors. Moreover, those who are not fully vaccinated are strongly encouraged to wear a mask. Limits on church capacity to pre-pandemic levels will be lifted on June 4, 2021. In light of these developments, the protocols regulating the celebration of Mass and Sacraments in effect since June 2020 are greatly modified, if not ended. The following guidance is provided to facilitate an orderly and careful return to parish life. No one is to be refused the Sacraments due to vaccination status.

GENERAL INFORMATION • Pastors should devise a liturgical schedule appropriate for parish’s needs at this time. • All doors may be utilized for entrance and exit of church. • Barriers, tape, cords to maintain social distancing may be removed. • Sanitizing of pews and other furnishing after each Mass may be discontinued. • Hand sanitizers should continue to be made available. • Restrooms may be restored to full use. • Blessed Water may be placed in fonts. • Missals and hymnals may be placed in pew book racks. • Bulletins, worship aids, etc., may be distributed. • The continued use of livestreaming is encouraged for the benefit of the homebound. CELEBRATION OF MASS • “Parking lot Masses” and “In-car reception of the Eucharist” should be discontinued. • Pastors are encouraged to invite liturgical ministers to resume their ministry. • All ministers of Holy Communion should wear masks while distributing the Holy Eucharist. • Receiving Holy Communion in the hand continues to be strongly encouraged although Holy Communion may be received on the tongue as well. • The procession for Holy Communion is strongly encouraged at the usual time at Mass. • The usual procession of ministers to and from sanctuary may resume.

Less than five months before the coronavirus lockdown, faithful filled St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, in this October 2019 file photo. On May 26, protocol changes regarding the return to in-church Masses were announced by the Diocese. Jeff Bruno photo 32 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

• Music Ministers may return to their usual ministry. • The collection may be taken up as in the past. • The Presentation of the Gifts by the faithful may resume. • The use of separate chalices for concelebrants and deacons is encouraged for the time being. • Sharing chalices for the faithful is not permitted at this time. Holy Communion is to be distributed by the sacred host only. • The Sign of Peace may resume. • Greeting people at the church door may resume. • Washing the sacred vessels with warm water and soap after each Mass should continue. RECONCILIATION • Confessionals may be used where there is proper ventilation and space. Where there is no proper ventilation and space, pastors should arrange an appropriate place for Confessions. • Sanitizer and masks should be available and used by the priest and the penitent. BAPTISM • More than one infant may be baptized at the same ceremony. • The blessing and the pouring of water from a pitcher is recommended. • Q-Tips may continue to be used for the anointings.

Covid Updates • The baptismal garment may be placed upon the newly baptized. • Group photos may be taken. WEDDINGS • Nuptial Masses may be offered. • Worship aids may be utilized. • Greetings at the door and the Sign of Peace may be exchanged. • Group photos may be taken. FUNERALS • Vigil services at funeral homes may now resume where previously suspended. • “Open casket” visitation in church before the Mass is permitted. • The use of the pall may resume. PARISH MEETINGS/SOCIALS • Parish meetings and socials may resume. Refreshments may be served observing local health protocols. IMPLEMENTATION • Masks and social distancing requirements are lifted except as noted above on Friday, May 28, and these revisions to pandemic protocols as well as full occupancy of churches are to be implemented on Friday, June 4. The dispensation from Sunday and Holy Day Mass obligation is lifted except as noted above on Saturday, June 5. Approved by Most Reverend David M. O’Connell, C.M. Bishop of Trenton May 26, 2021 Feast of St. Philip Neri

On the first day of the 2020-2021 academic year, a teacher in St. Raphael School, Hamilton, instructs students who were both attending class in-person and online. Joe Moore photo

Diocesan superintendent announces full return to school in fall BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

ollowing an unprecedented year of pandemic-related challenges, the Diocese of Trenton’s school superintendent issued a letter to parents thanking them for their partnership and commending Catholic schools’ faculty and staff for their commitment and resiliency. In his May 24 letter, Dr. Vincent de Paul Schmidt also announced that all parish and diocesan Catholic schools will return to full time, in-person instruction for the 2021-2022 academic year. With only a few exceptions, the schools of the Diocese offered in-person learning on a full day schedule for the past year, according to Dr. Schmidt. Remote learning was made available as needed in response to parents’ requests and health protocols where COVID-19 exposure was suspected. Citing the increased availability of COVID-19 vaccines for adults and older children, thereby reducing the risk of transmission of the virus, the Department of Catholic Schools has determined that full-time remote learning will not be necessary come September. “In-person learning allows all stu-

dents to thrive in the dynamic environment of the classroom and allows teachers to more easily assess students’ needs and adapt instruction to meet them,” Dr. Schmidt wrote. “All students are important members of their school community, valued personally for the gifts that they share. While our teachers have done an outstanding job of inviting remote learners into the classroom, all students benefit from being a part of the full community in the classroom.” Expressing thanks and gratitude for the commitment and care shown over the past school year, Dr. Schmidt wrote, “The Catholic schools and our school families have come a long way together this year,” he said. “Thank you for your trust in your child’s Catholic school and the unparalleled commitment of the principals, teachers and staff to ensure that all children in our schools get the high quality, faith-based education you expect.” The remote learning and hybrid options that were made available to families the past nine months “lent themselves to student participation in all classroom activities,” Dr. Schmidt pointed out. “Catholic schools are communities of faith, committed to common values and principles that drive our actions. The successes achieved so far this year Continued on 58

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 33

WELC

Covid Updates

Parishes move forward in faith on post-COVID journey BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

ist bumps, elbow taps, air waves and air hugs were replaced with firm, genuine handshakes at the Sign of Peace. Missalettes and hymnals were in the pew racks, ready for use by folks to follow along as the Readings were being proclaimed and to sing the actual words to hymns. Printed copies of bulletins and handouts announcing upcoming events were distributed and the various measures churches used to ensure proper pandemic protocols – like duct tape to bracket off pews and the strategically placed floor markers at six feet apart – were pretty much gone. These were but a few of the changes people noticed when they stepped into their parish churches for Mass June 5-6, the weekend designated by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and the Catholic bishops of New Jersey to lift the 15-month long dispensation from attending Mass. In lifting the dispensation set into place March 12, 2020, because of the COVID-19 pandemic, faithful are now required to return to church to ful-

 “The atmosphere was definitely electric.” fill their Sunday Holy Day of Obligation. Following the noon Mass on June 6, Father Dennis Apoldite, pastor of Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton, described a “good response” of parishioners in attendance in both Holy Cross Church and Sacred Heart Church. “We had a few new faces,” he said, noting that he’s observed a steady population of about 40 percent of parishioners at Mass during the past five months.

Ron Maniglia, an usher and reader in Corpus Christi Parish, Willingboro, hands out bulletins to parishioners following the 9 a.m. Mass June 6. Items such as bulletins, missalettes and hymnals have not been available in more than a year due to pandemic restrictions. Mary Stadnyk photos

“There was a very joyful and excited spirit as people began to return to church,” observed Msgr. Vincent Gartland, a retired priest of the Diocese and a weekend assistant in St. George Church, Titusville. “The parishioners were happy to see and greet one another again. The atmosphere was definitely electric, and there was also a sense of gratitude to be back in church,” he said. GETTING READY Once Bishop O’Connell announced that the dispensation would be lifted, parish staff members quickly mobilized to get their churches ready for the return of their parishioners. To help address any lingering concerns, parishes made provisions for folks wanting to continue practicing safety measures. “Last week I told the parishioners that I didn’t want to lose anyone” because

34 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

they were concerned about returning to church, said Father Apoldite. So in both worship sites the decision was made to designate half of the church for open seating, meaning people could sit where they want and didn’t have to wear face masks, and the other half had safety measures in place – taped off pews and parishioners could decide whether or not they wanted to wear masks. “About 90 percent of the parishioners were in the open seating” during the June 5-6 weekend, he said. “We’ll do this until Labor Day and see how it goes.” Similarly, Father Gartland said that there are ample supplies of hand sanitizing stations throughout St. George Church as well as areas where there is plenty of space between the pews, and “some people took advantage of this provision.” NO COINCIDENCE When asked about the timing of the

COME HOME return to Mass in the Diocese falling on the same weekend that the Universal Church commemorated the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, Yolanda Gora of Sacred Heart Parish, emphatically responded that “It’s a sign from God … “I see it as a sign of hope that everything will get better,” said Gora, who had attended the noon Mass that was celebrated in Polish in Holy Cross Church. After the Mass she joined in the annual Corpus Christi feast day procession that followed. While watching Father Apoldite carry the monstrance with the Blessed Sacrament, and the stream of parishio-

ners singing and praying as the procession traveled to the three altars set up around the church grounds, Gora found it uplifting. “It was sad this past year having less people in church, but today it’s very nice to see people here,” she said, then noted that she was especially pleased that at least 12 more parishioners offered to help with setting up for the procession. “I think they feel more comfortable coming out and helping, and they are also more comfortable having their children get involved with activities,” she said. Father Gartland said he found the solemnity to be the “perfect day to begin our exciting journey in the post-COVID

Church. “For so many folks, being able to receive the Eucharist in community again was something that they had missed and had longed for throughout the pandemic, so joining with the community to celebrate the Eucharist, the central act of our faith, was a long-awaited event,” he said. “Their joy was evident.” Acknowledging that the COVID crisis presented a real challenge to the faithful’s being able to celebrate the Eucharist, Msgr. Gartland added that by its very nature, Mass is a participatory event reflecting the diversity of gifts of the worshiping community and calling for the full and active participation of all. “A liturgy in which all or most of the ministerial roles are taken by the priest makes visible a Church in which the priest has all the responsibility, a lopsided Church, that can easily become stagnant,” he said. “This is not only misleading, but contrary to the teaching of the Church, for all the baptized form the Body of Christ. “The body has many members all with different and varied functions and is most healthy when all the members are working well together,” he said. “We are now freely moving in that direction. When you are not there, you are missed.”

 The annual procession for the Solemnity of Corpus Christi in Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton, followed the noon Mass that was celebrated in Polish in Holy Cross Church, the same day that the pandemic dispensation was lifted and all parishioners were required to attend Sunday Mass.  Scores of parishioners in Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton, kneel in prayer before the Blessed Sacrament during the annual outdoor procession held for the Solemnity of Corpus Christi on the grounds of Holy Cross Church.

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 35

Vocations

The newly elected congregational leadership team for the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia are, standing from left, Sisters Celeste Crine and Karen Pourby. Seated are Sisters Marian Leaf, Theresa Firenze and Florence Hee. Courtesy photo

Trenton-born religious to assume leadership in congregation BY CHRISTINA LESLIE  Correspondent

Trenton native is poised to take up the mantle of service in her religious order this July. Sister of St. Francis of Philadelphia Celeste Crine will serve as assistant congregational minister of the order for the next five years, becoming a member of the four-person leadership team supporting newly elected congregational minister Sister Theresa Marie Firenze. During an early morning phone call from her present assignment in California, Sister Celeste recounted her Trenton roots and decision to follow wherever the Lord would lead. “I didn’t attend Catholic school but had exposure to the Sisters of Charity through my CCD classes as a child,” said the nun, a former member of the capital city’s Sacred Heart Parish. “I was in church one day trying to decide what to do with my life, and I heard a voice say, ‘Be a sister.’” Already familiar with the creation-centered charism of the Franciscans, the future Sister Celeste entered the congregation in 1962 and made her

first profession of vows in 1965 at the age of 21. “It was very clear to me what I was called to do,” she said, “to serve God and God’s people. It confirmed what I thought all along.” Sister Celeste earned a bachelor’s degree in history from Neumann University, Aston, Pa.; a master’s degree in spirituality from Creighton University, Omaha, Neb., and a certificate from the Institute of Religious Formation at St. Louis University, Mo. Her first assignment was as an elementary school teacher in St. Leo the Great School, Lincroft; after positions in Massachusetts and Washington state, she returned to the Monmouth County parish as pastoral assistant, ministering to a second generation of parishioners there. Over the course of her career in ministry, Sister Celeste has served as pastoral counselor and spirituality leader in retreat houses. She fondly recalled her most recent assignment at the School of Applied Theology in Berkeley, Calif., where she led spiritual sabbaticals for religious and lay persons from all over the world who are in their second half of life. Sister Celeste explained, “You meet diverse people and work with them on

36 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

their spiritual journey. It is wonderful to see how we are led to listen and follow God’s lead. It gives us the peace and hope that all will be well. “There are changes in the world, in the Church, in the family,” she continued. “We should be hopeful, hold deeper values, and guide them to a more peaceful place.” Sister Celeste will begin her service next month at the order’s Our Lady of the Angels motherhouse in Aston, Pa., “ministering with and to the sisters to guide our congregation and learn how to aid the congregation to guide others. We are fortunate to minister and make a difference in the world,” she said.

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Pope Francis

Pope dedicates June prayers for soon-to-be newlyweds BY JUNNO AROCHO ESTEVES  Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY • While uncertainty in the world may deter young couples from taking the next big step in their relationships, the vocational call to marriage is a risk worth taking, Pope Francis said. Marriage “is a challenging journey, at times difficult, sometimes even confrontational, but it is worth the risk,” the pope said. “And in this lifelong journey, the husband  “Marriage is not and wife are not alone: Jesus just a ‘social’ act.” accompanies them.” In a video message released by the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network June 1, the Pope offered his prayer intention for the month of June, which he dedicated to “the beauty of marriage.” Acknowledging the belief that young people “do not want to get married, especially in these difficult times,” the Pope said that marriage and sharing one’s life “is a beautiful thing.” “Marriage is not just a ‘social’ act,” he said. “It is a vocation that is born from the heart, it is a conscious lifelong decision that requires a specific preparation.” “Please, never forget! God has a dream for us – love – and he asks us to make it our own,” the Pope said. At the start of each month, the Pope’s Worldwide Prayer Network posts a short video of the pope offering his specific prayer intention. Reciting his intention, Pope Francis prayed for “young people preparing for marriage with the support of a Christian community, so that they may grow in love, generosity, faithfulness and patience.”

In his prayer intention for the month of June, the Pope prayed for young couples who answer the vocational call to marriage. CNS photo

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Church

Pope promulgates revised canon law on crimes, punishments BY CINDY WOODEN Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY • A series of laws and procedures promulgated by now-retired Pope Benedict XVI and, especially, by Pope Francis to protect children, promote the investigation of allegations of clerical sexual abuse and punish offenders are included in a heavily revised section of the Code of Canon Law. The revision of “Book VI: Penal Sanctions in the Church,” one of seven books that make up the code for the Latin rite of the Catholic Church, was promulgated June 1 and will go into effect Dec. 8, Pope Francis wrote. Rewriting 63 of the book’s 89 canons, the revision addresses a host of issues that have come up in the life of the Church since St. John Paul II promulgated the code in 1983. The descriptions of crimes of sexual abuse, including child pornography, are more explicit, and the required actions of a bishop or superior of a religious order in handling allegations are more stringent.

 ...the revision addresses a host of issues that have come up in the life of the Church ... The revised canons also include new references to the attempted ordination of a woman and to a variety of financial crimes; like with the new canons dealing with sexual abuse, they rely on language from laws promulgated separately over the past 20 years. “In the past, much damage has been caused by a failure to perceive the intimate relationship existing in the Church between the exercise of charity and re-

A Latin-English edition of the Code of Canon Law is pictured on a bookshelf. New canon law provisions approved by Pope Francis are expected to help the Catholic Church safeguard against abuse. CNS photo/Nancy Phelan Wiechec course – when circumstances and justice require it – to the discipline of sanctions. This way of thinking, as experience has taught us, risks leading to a life of behavior contrary to the discipline of morals, for the remedy of which exhortations or suggestions alone are not sufficient,” Pope Francis wrote in “Pascite Gregem Dei” (Shepherd God’s Flock), the apostolic constitution promulgating the changes. While Church law applies to all Catholics, the Pope said, for bishops, the observance of canon law “can in no way be separated from the pastoral ‘munus’ (service) entrusted to them, and which must be carried out as a concrete and inalienable requirement of charity not only toward the Church, the Christian community and possible victims, but also toward those who have committed a crime, who need both mercy and correction on the part of the Church.” Over the years, he said, it became clear that the code’s description of crimes and penalties needed to be “modified in such a way as to allow pastors to use it as a more agile salvific and corrective instrument, to be employed promptly and with pastoral charity to avoid more serious evils and to soothe the wounds caused by human weakness.” The revised book was presented to the press June 1 by Archbishop Filippo

38 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

Iannone and Bishop Juan Ignacio Arrieta, respectively president and secretary of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts. In 2009, Pope Benedict had asked the council to begin the revision project. The revision moves the canons about the sexual abuse of children – on the part of a priest, religious or layperson working for the Church – out of the section on violations of the obligation of celibacy and into a newly titled section of “Offenses Against Human Life, Dignity and Liberty.” It adds to canon law the crime of “grooming,” calling for penalties, including dismissal from the priesthood for a cleric who “grooms or induces a minor or a person who habitually has an imperfect use of reason or one to whom the law recognizes equal protection to expose himself or herself pornographically or to take part in pornographic exhibitions, whether real or simulated.” However, the revised language still refers to rape and other forms of sexual abuse as “an offence against the Sixth Commandment” – You shall not commit adultery. The continued use of the Sixth Commandment to refer to any improper, immoral or even criminal sexual activity “is traditional” in Church law, Bishop Continued on 58

Church

BALTIMORE BASILICA MARKS BICENTENNIAL WITH NEW PERPETUAL ADORATION CHAPEL BALTIMORE • Neither Archbishop John Carroll, the first Catholic bishop in the United States, who started the project to build America’s first cathedral, nor Archbishop Ambrose Maréchal, the third archbishop of Baltimore, who brought it to completion, could have predicted its impact over the centuries, the current archbishop said. Baltimore Archbishop William E. Lori, celebrated a Mass May 31 to mark the 200th anniversary of the dedication of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. Immediately after the Mass, he dedicated a chapel in the Basilica’s undercroft for perpetual Eucharistic Adoration, making the spiritual practice available for the first time ever in the city, as far as parish leaders and researchers can determine. In his homily, Archbishop Lori said Archbishop Maréchal had announced in a pastoral letter released at the time of the Basilica’s dedication in 1821 that the Gospel would be proclaimed from the pulpit, sins would be forgiven through the Sacraments of Baptism and Penance, and the faithful would receive “courage in their

The afternoon sun shines through the dome of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Baltimore May 31, 2021, shortly after the conclusion of a Mass celebrating the 200th anniversary of the Basilica’s dedication. CNS photo/Kevin J. Parks, Catholic Review

temptations; comforts in their afflictions and infirmities; light in their doubts; and all the graces necessary to persevere in the service and love of God” and that those suffering from spiritual infirmities would be made whole. Archbishop Lori said, “These most fundamental purposes of this Basilica continue in our times, and today, we give thanks for the torrent of graces communicated and received in this sacred space.”

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June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 39

World & Nation

At historic migration summit, bishops commit to work toward ‘Church without borders’ BY RHINA GUIDOS  Catholic News Service

MUNDELEIN, Ill. • After hearing the story of a Salvadoran immigrant and her plight to leave her home country, bishops from the U.S., Central America and Mexico meeting in Mundelein June 2 turned to a camera facing a woman identified as Maria Antonia.

 “We need Catholics to be in communion with migrants.” Even though she was thousands of miles away, in Irving, Texas, they gave her a blessing via Zoom. “Our wish is that your family find stability and you’ll find peace and continue to experience God’s consolation,” said Bishop Oswaldo Escobar Aguilar of

Bishops from the U.S., Central America and Mexico face the camera at the chapel of Mundelein Seminary outside of Chicago June 2 to bless a Salvadoran woman via Zoom who shared her story of immigration. Along with Vatican representatives and Catholic organizations, the prelates participated in an emergency session June 1 and 2 to set forth the U.S. Church’s response to immigration as well as to seek greater collaboration with bishops from countries where some migrants are coming from. CNS photo/Rhina Guidos her home country. The Bishop of the Diocese of Chalatenango, El Salvador, led a dozen other brother bishops in the blessing as they saw through her story the reality of the complexities they discussed June 1 and 2: violence, displacement, looking for safety and a chance to start again. On the final day of a historic meeting of bishops and international Catholic organizations gathered at Mundelein Seminary outside of Chicago, they discussed the challenges the Church faces even while trying to get Catholics to understand Church teaching on migrants such as Maria Antonia. “We need to evangelize our own, we really do,” said Don Kerwin, executive director of the Center for Migration Studies in New York. “Really, the whole Church is not with us and we should be honest about that. We don’t need messaging as Bishop Guido Charbonneau of Honduras looks at notes written by children in detention camps during a break June 1, at Mundelein Seminary outside of Chicago. “Dear God, I ask you that you help me get out of here and that you take care of my mom,” read one note written in Spanish, which was collected by Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso, Texas, and shared with those attending the summit. CNS photo/Rhina Guidos

40 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

much as we need Catholics to be in communion with migrants, as many of you have talked about. “And we need Catholics to be Catholics. . . . The Church really has a beautiful vision for gathering God’s children, a vision of communion, a vision of diversity, and it works.” It was a sentiment shared by other participants, including Sister Norma Pimentel, executive director of Catholic Charities of the Rio Grande Valley in the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas. Despite gaining great respect for her work with migrants, Sister Pimentel, a Missionary of Jesus, said she has seen her fair share of Catholics who don’t like the welcome she’s giving migrants, but she feels compelled to carry out the message of the Gospel by helping them. She said the Church sees two types of Catholics: “Those wanting us to tell them . . . how to help (migrants),” and those who are “politicized, who believe that what we’re doing at the border is wrong.” Even with the opposition, “it is our job to speak up,” she said on the last day of the meeting organized at the urging of U.S. bishops to address ways the Church will need to organize itself to help migrants since their numbers likely will increase as a result of the pandemic, climate change and political destabilization in Central America. In the closing Mass June 2, the Continued on 60

World & Nation

Tiananmen anniversary prompts renewed calls to address human rights abuses BY CATHOLIC NEWS SERVICE WASHINGTON • The Chinese government in Beijing again banned an annual candlelight vigil to honor the victims of the Tiananmen Square Massacre because the Communist Party “cannot tolerate the truth of its actions in 1989 being recognized anywhere,” said the head of the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong. The committee was recently founded to defend religious freedom and other The human rights in Hong Kong. basic Monitor “The true intent of the ban is made clear by the vindictive prosecution and imprisonment of Hong Kong democrats for honoring the victims of June 4, 1989, The Monitor last year,” committee president Ellen Bork said in a June 3 statement. “The world’s democracies must respond as if

Hong Kong is the front line of China’s assault on freedom around the world – because it is.” Police said they had to cancel the event this year and last year because of social distancing rules put in place to People at Victoria Park in Hong Kong hold control the spread of COVID-19. candles June 4, during the 32nd anniversary The protesters killed in Tiananmen of the crackdown on pro-democracy demSquare in mainland China in 1989 used onstrators in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square in to be remembered in Hong Kong with 1989. CNS photo/Lam Yik, Reuters an annual candlelight vigil in the city’s discussions of the events of June 4 have expansive Victoria Park, attended by achieved nothing,” said Bork. crowds as big as 130,000, all holding “There must be political and ecoflickering candles. The place to find the services you’re nomic consequences imposed looking on China’sfor! Seven Catholic churches scheduled government for mounting repression in Masses for June 4 at the time the vigils Hong Kong, ” she added. would normally occur. At a June 4 event in Washington “Annual calls by democratic governsponsored by the Chinese Democracy ments for an official Chinese accounting and Human Rights Alliance, the co-chair of the dead and an end to punishment Continued on 60 of Chinese citizens for even private

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La diócesis alienta el regreso a la iglesia, levanta muchos protocolos del COVID El 26 de mayo, la Diócesis de Trenton anunció una serie de cambios en el protocolo, ya que se anima a los fieles a regresar a las Misas en la iglesia. Las revisiones siguen.

REVISIONES DE LOS PROTOCOLOS ACTUALES DEL COVID INTRODUCCIÓN Los obispos de Nueva Jersey han puesto fin a la dispensa de la obligación de asistir a misa los domingos y días de obligación a partir del 5 y 6 de junio de 2021, la Solemnidad del Cuerpo y la Sangre de Cristo. Los fieles deben volver a la práctica de participar en la celebración semanal de la Misa en la iglesia. Como siempre es el caso, la obligación no se aplica a los enfermos, aquellos con condiciones de salud, y aquellos que siguen temerosos de la transmisión del COVID-19. A partir del 28 de mayo de 2021, el gobernador de Nueva Jersey, Phil Murphy, levantó los mandatos que exigían el uso de máscaras y el distanciamiento social. Sin embargo, reconociendo que la pandemia de COVID-19 permanece activa, usar una máscara es una opción para quienes deseen hacerlo. El clero y los fieles deben usar su mejor juicio para proteger su propia salud y la salud de sus vecinos. Además, se recomienda encarecidamente a las personas que no estén completamente vacunadas que usen una máscara. Los límites a la capacidad de la iglesia a niveles de antes de la pandemia se levantarán el 4 de junio de 2021. A la luz de estos desarrollos, los protocolos que regulan la celebración de la Misa y los Sacramentos vigentes desde junio de 2020 se modifican en gran medida, si no se terminan. La siguiente guía se proporciona para facilitar un regreso

ordenado y cuidadoso a la vida parroquial. A nadie se le negarán los sacramentos debido al estado de vacunación. INFORMACIÓN GENERAL • Los párrocos deben diseñar un horario litúrgico apropiado para las necesidades de la parroquia en este momento. • Todas las puertas pueden utilizarse para la entrada y salida de la iglesia. • Se pueden eliminar barreras, cintas, y cordones para mantener el distanciamiento social. • Se puede suspender la desinfección de bancos y otros muebles después de cada misa. • Los desinfectantes de manos deben seguir estando disponibles. • Los baños se pueden restaurar para su uso completo. • El agua bendita se puede colocar en fuentes. • Los misales y los himnarios se pueden colocar en los estantes de libros de los bancos. • Se pueden distribuir boletines, folletos de ayuda para el culto, etc. • Se fomenta el uso continuo de transmisiones en vivo en beneficio de los confinados en casa. CELEBRACIÓN DE LA MISA • Se deben suspender las “Misas en el estacionamiento” y la “Recepción de la Eucaristía en el automóvil.” • Se anima a los pastores a invitar a los ministros litúrgicos a reanudar su ministerio. • Todos los ministros de la Sagrada Comunión deben usar máscaras mientras distribuyen la Sagrada Eucaristía. • Se sigue recomendando encarecidamente recibir la Sagrada Comunión en la mano, aunque también se

42 REVISTA EL MONITOR  Junio 2021

puede recibir en la lengua. • Se recomienda encarecidamente la procesión a la Sagrada Comunión a la hora habitual de la Misa. • Puede reanudarse la procesión habitual de ministros hacia y desde el santuario. • Los ministros de música pueden regresar a su ministerio habitual. • La colección se podrá retomar como en el pasado. • Se podrá reanudar la Presentación de las Ofrendas por parte de los fieles. • Se anima por el momento el uso de cálices separados para concelebrantes y diáconos. • En este momento no está permitido compartir cálices para los fieles. La Sagrada Comunión debe ser distribuida únicamente por la hostia sagrada. • El Signo de la Paz puede reanudarse. • Se puede reanudar el saludo a las personas en la puerta de la iglesia. • Se debe continuar lavando los vasos sagrados con agua tibia y jabón después de cada misa. RECONCILIACIÓN • Los confesionarios pueden usarse donde haya ventilación y espacio adecuados. Donde no haya ventilación y espacio adecuados, los pastores deben organizar un lugar apropiado para las Confesiones. • El sacerdote y el penitente deben disponer de desinfectante y mascarillas. BAUTISMO • Se puede bautizar más de un infante en la misma ceremonia. • Se recomienda la bendición y el vertido de agua de una jarra. • Los hisopos pueden seguir utilizándose para las unciones. • La prenda bautismal puede colocarse sobre los recién bautizados.

El Anzuelo • Se pueden tomar fotos en grupo. BODAS • Se pueden ofrecer misas nupciales. • Se pueden utilizar folletos de ayuda para el culto. • Se pueden intercambiar saludos en la puerta y el Signo de la Paz. • Se pueden tomar fotos en grupo.

abierto” en la iglesia antes de la Misa. • Se puede reanudar el uso del féretro REUNIONES PARROQUIALES Y SOCIALES • Se pueden reanudar las reuniones parroquiales y sociales. Se puede servir comida siguiendo los protocolos locales de salud.

FUNERALES

IMPLEMENTACIÓN

• Los servicios de vigilia en las funerarias ahora pueden reanudarse. • Se permite la visita de “ataúd

• Los requisitos de máscaras y distanciamiento social se eliminan, excepto como se indicó anteriormente,

el viernes 28 de mayo, y estas revisiones a los protocolos de la pandemia, así como la ocupación total de las iglesias, se implementarán el viernes 4 de junio. La dispensa de la obligación de la misa dominical y del día de obligación se levanta, excepto como se indicó anteriormente, el sábado 5 de junio. Aprobado por el Reverendísimo David M. O’Connell, C.M. Obispo de Trenton 26 de mayo de 2021 Fiesta de San Felipe Neri

En cumbre, obispos dicen que trabajaran por ‘iglesia sin fronteras’ POR RHINA GUIDOS  Catholic News Service

espués de escuchar la historia de una inmigrante salvadoreña y su difícil situación al dejar su país de origen, obispos de Estados Unidos, Centroamérica y México reunidos en Mundelein el 2 de junio voltearon a ver a una mujer identificada como María Antonia por medio de una cámara de video. A pesar de que estaba a miles de kilómetros de distancia, en Irving, Texas, le dieron una bendición a través de Zoom. “Nuestro deseo es que su familia encuentre estabilidad y usted encuentre la paz y continúe experimentando el consuelo de Dios”, dijo el obispo Oswaldo Escobar Aguilar de su país de origen. La obispo de la Diócesis de Chalatenango, El Salvador, encabezó a una decena de hermanos obispos en la bendición al ver a través de la historia de María Antonia la realidad de las complejidades que discutieron el 1 y 2 de junio: violencia, desplazamiento, búsqueda de seguridad y una oportunidad para comenzar de nuevo. En el último día de una reunión histórica de obispos y organizaciones católicas internacionales reunidas en el Seminario Mundelein en las afueras de Chicago, discutieron los desafíos que enfrenta la iglesia incluso mientras intentan que los católicos estadounidenses comprendan las enseñanzas de la iglesia sobre migrantes como María Antonia. “Necesitamos evangelizar a nuestra gente, realmente tenemos que hacerlo”, dijo Don Kerwin, director ejecutivo del Centro de Estudios Migratorios en Nueva York. “De veras, toda la iglesia no está con nosotros y deberíamos ser honestos al respecto. No necesitamos mensajes tanto como necesitamos que los católicos estén en comunión con los migrantes, como muchos de ustedes han dicho”. “Y necesitamos que los católicos sean católicos. No necesitamos que sean republicanos o demócratas o lo que sea. La iglesia realmente tiene una hermosa visión para reunir a los hijos de Dios, una visión de comunión, una visión de diversidad,

una que funciona”, agregó. Dijo que la iglesia ve dos tipos de católicos: “Aquellos que quieren que les digamos qué hacer, cómo ayudar (a los migrantes)” y aquellos que están “politizados, que creen que lo que estamos haciendo en la frontera está mal. “ Aun experimentando oposición, “es nuestro deber hablar”, dijo la hermana Pimental en el último día de la reunión organizada a instancias de los obispos estadounidenses para abordar las formas en que la iglesia necesita organizarse para ayudar a los migrantes, ya que es probable que aumenten sus números. como resultado de la pandemia, el cambio climático y la desestabilización política en Centroamérica. En la misa de clausura del 2 de junio, los obispos tuvieron en mente la difícil situación de la mujer salvadoreña y de otras personas como ella. El arzobispo Gustavo Rodríguez Vega de Yucatán, México, el celebrante principal, dijo que la reunión había sido extraordinaria, inspirada y guiada por el Espíritu Santo. “Tal vez no todos están satisfechos, pero hemos conseguido algunos objetivos”, dijo el arzobispo Rodríguez.

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Spiritual Life

‘Take and Eat’ JUNE 6  AS THE CHURCH, WE ARE THE BODY OF CHRIST Ex 24:3-8; Heb 9:11-15; Mk 14: 12-16, 22-26

e focus on the celebration of the Solemnity of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ. This feast, traditionally celebrated on Thursday, in memory of the Last Supper, reminds us of the power and presence of Christ in our midst. We hear the Last Supper account of St. Mark, and the very simple yet clear starkness of Jesus’s actions and instructions to the disciples. They were celebrating what appears to be an ordinary Passover Seder meal. They all seem genuinely unaware as to what might, and indeed will, transpire over the next 12 hours, much less the next three days. Jesus has been with them, teaching and preparing them for the Paschal events that are imminent, and still they are not ready. As Jesus blesses the cup and the wine – in the usual manner of the Seder meal – he strays from the text to proclaim the bread as his Body and the cup of wine as his Blood. In his 2003 encyclical Ecclesia de Eucharista, Pope John Paul II stated: “It is there that Christ took bread, broke it and gave it to his disciples, saying: ‘Take this, all of you, and eat it: this is my body which will be given up for you’. Then he took the cup of wine and said to them: ‘Take this, all of you and drink from it: this is the cup of my blood, the blood of the new and everlasting covenant. It will be shed for you and for all, so that sins may be forgiven.’ I am grateful to the Lord Jesus for allowing me to repeat in that same place, in obedience to his command: ‘Do this in memory of me,’ the words

which he spoke 2,000 years ago.” We cannot separate the Eucharist, and our reception of Communion, from our participation in Christ’s Death. The Eucharist stands at the very heart of the Church, it is the core of who we are as the Body of Christ. JUNE 13  WE ARE THE FRUIT OF THE LORD’S LABOR Ez 17:22-24; 2Cor 5: 6-10; Mk 5: 26-34

he nature of the Church, especially in relation to the Kingdom of God, is one that has been the source of much speculation by theologians over the centuries. The Kingdom of God is certainly more comprehensive than merely the Church herself. God’s kingdom is universal, unconstrained by the limits of time and space. Jesus tells a parable about the spontaneous growth that happens when a farmer scatters seeds on the ground. As the ancients were not fully aware of the scientific processes of germination, the growth of plants remained somewhat of a mystery. In this section of Mark’s Gospel where Jesus speaks of the Kingdom of God, we might be tempted to think solely of the Church as kingdom model. The argument about whether or not Jesus intended to establish the Church gets lost in this language struggle. Jesus does not use the language of separation from Judaism to establish his own Church, as we have seen so much separation from the Church over time, but rather the more inclusive, expansive and familiar language of the Kingdom of God. Jesus desires to lead all men and women to the Kingdom. He moved the image of the Kingdom beyond the strictures of Judaism to include the Gentile world. The

44 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

This stained glass image may be found in St. Teresa of Calcutta Parish, Bradley Beach/St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, Avon. apostles took up this universal mission and journeyed throughout the known world planting the seeds of the faith from England to India in only a matter of decades after the Paschal events. In our time we are legitimately concerned about the waning of the practice

spontaneously in our gardens from the seeds of plants we left behind the season before, so will the Church be renewed from seeds that we may have forgot were planted.

attempts are failing us.

JUNE 20  DO NOT LET JESUS SLEEP IN YOUR BOAT

Jb 39:1, 8-11; 2Cor 5:14-17; Mk 4: 35-41

“

ord, do you not care that we are perishing?” This plea of desperation from the disciples as they struggle to stay afloat in a raging storm on the Sea of Galilee while Jesus was asleep on the boat resonates well with us today. Finding God in the midst of a crisis or in the face of abject terror is real and visceral for most of us. We tend to want God to respond “now” when we cry out to him. Often our prayers are answered, which gives us a sense of hope. Yet when [our prayers] remain seemingly unanswered, it causes us to doubt and fear.

 “Jesus seeks us out – he wants to see our face and hear our voice.”

of the faith. The Church, especially in the Northeast of the U.S. seems to be dwindling. There are as many people now in our country who practice or claim no religion as there are Catholics (with ex-Catholics making up a large segment of that percentage). We have lost a sense of our agrarian roots and the reality that there are always seasons of growth, and there are seasons of decline. Just as some plants pop up

We are all in this boat together, a boat that knows periods of calm seas and, at other times, great turbulence. As individuals our lives are often rocky and uncertain. We rely on each other – just as the disciples had to work together to try and save their boat – to weather the storm. One wonders how long they fought against the tempest before they decided to rouse a sleeping Jesus. They had an on-going relationship with Jesus, and as his disciples, were in continual need of formation, and so Jesus’ intentional napping was meant to teach them (and us) an important lesson. The Lord is asleep in the boat because the disciples ignored him and decided to do it the way they knew how. As professionals they didn’t perceive Jesus being of any help to them. So often, we let Jesus fall asleep and then wonder where he is when all of own

JUNE 27  THERE ARE MANY WAYS TO APPROACH THE LORD Wis 1:13-15; 2:23-24; 2Cor 8:7, 9, 13-15; Mk 5:21-43

ow much faith did it take for an unnamed suffering woman to work her way through the crowd just to get an opportunity to touch the clothing of Jesus so that she would be cured? She risked much more than she thought. She was clearly familiar with Jesus and his working of miracles, though no one had yet sought a healing without coming forward and asking Jesus for his mercy. In a sense her boldness suggests that she is embarrassed of her affliction and is unwilling to expose herself to him and those around him. She acts out of the self-reservation of her dignity and anonymity, while she seeks the Lord’s mercy. We contrast her in this event with the definite boldness of Jairus, a synagogue official, who approaches Jesus with the request to heal his dying daughter. Both knew they needed the Lord’s assistance. These two people mirror the ways in which many of us approach Jesus. Some of us, like this woman, try and sneak up on Jesus and seek his assistance without entering into a relationship with him. But, as with this woman, Jesus seeks us out – he wants to see our face and hear our voice. He desires that we “tell him the whole truth.” Some of us are like Jairus. We demand Jesus’ attention now and expect that he will leave aside what he is doing in order to tend to our needs. We, too, often wait until the last minute, when things are at the bitter end, before our cries go out to the Lord, seeking his mercy and peace. Then, too, there are those voices around us, not to bother the Master. Don’t bother praying, it is of no use, our prayers never get answered anyway. Maybe we feel the situation is too desperate as well. This moment in the ministry of Jesus has much to teach us about how we pray, and how we enter into a relationship with the Lord. Father Garry Koch is pastor of St. Benedict Parish, Holmdel.

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 45

Spiritual Life

Crucifixion and need for repentance; raising children Catholic I can understand that Jesus died on the Cross to reconcile us with the Father, but why do we say that Jesus died to forgive our sins when we have to repent continually for those sins? (city and state withheld)

The Bible does say that Jesus has forgiven our sins; St. Paul tells us in Colossians 2:13 that “even when you were dead in transgressions ... he brought you to life along with him, having forgiven us all our transgressions.” But it is perhaps more precise to say that Jesus, by suffering and dying for our redemption, has simply opened for us the possibility of heaven – something we could not have done for ourselves. The question remains, though, that if pardon for sin comes ultimately from Christ’s work on Calvary, how is it received by individuals? The answer is that Jesus wants us to do our own part in making amends for our sins, so our eternal salvation is

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46 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

QUESTION CORNER Father Kenneth Doyle Catholic News Service

not automatic. Remember that Matthew’s Gospel (25:41) pictures Jesus at the last judgment saying to some, “Depart from me, you accursed, into the eternal fire prepared for the devil and his angels.” If the manner of our life has effectively been a denial of God’s teachings, we will be judged on that. And if God had already forgiven all of human sin in a single act, it would have made no sense for Christ to bestow on the disciples the power to forgive sins when he told them ( Jn 20:2223) following the Resurrection: “Receive the Holy Spirit. Whose sins you forgive are forgiven them, and whose sins you retain are retained.” Nor would it have made sense for Jesus, when teaching the disciples to pray the Our Father, to explain, “If you forgive others their transgressions, your heavenly Father will forgive you. But if you do not forgive others, neither will your Father forgive your transgressions” (Mt 6:14-15). My question concerns Catholic sacramental marriage, which I always understood to include a commitment by the couple to do their best to raise their children in the Catholic faith. So is a marriage invalidated when the parents, not even one of them, do not fulfill their commitment to raise their children in the faith – especially when they do not make any effort whatever to bring the children to Mass or share their faith with them, even at an early age? (Baltimore)

You are correct in assuming that a Catholic marriage includes the commitment to raise children in the Catholic faith. In fact, during the wedding ceremony itself, the priest asks the couple: “Are you prepared to accept children lovingly from God and bring them up according to the law of Christ and his Church?” And even in a mixed marriage (where one of the spouses is not a Catholic), the Catholic party must pledge to continue to practice the Catholic religion and must also (in the words of Canon 1125.1) “make a sincere promise to do all in his or her power so that all offspring are baptized and brought up in the Catholic Church.” But the failure later in marriage to carry out that commitment does not affect the sacramental validity of the marriage itself. A valid Catholic marriage results when, in freely consenting to marry, the couple has the intention to marry for life, to be faithful to one another and to be open to children. Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@ gmail.com and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, New York 12203.

Spiritual Life

Fatherhood requires living in the presence of God

Photo unsplash

fter the death of my dad, I wanted to do something special to honor him. It was then that I was given the chance to write a weekly column entitled “Things My Father Taught Me.” About a year after the column was first published, a workshop participant came to me at the end of the day to tell me how much she loved the column. “Sadly,” she said, “not everyone has a father like yours.” She shared that her father was an angry man and sometimes abusive. She loved him but she was often afraid of him. She suggested that, perhaps, I could consider that when writing my column. I thanked her for her honesty THINGS MY FATHER and for her suggesTAUGHT ME tion. Mary Clifford Morrell After that, every time I wrote a column I thought about what she said and tried to be sensitive with how and what I wrote, but the truth is it’s difficult to write from someone else’s experiences. The best I could do was try to help both moms and dads understand the beauty and value of their vocations, and how much they mean to the children who love them. After all, there are no perfect parents. Remembering back to the first of our six children and what it was like for my husband, I think of the quote from author Frank Pittman: “Fathering is not something perfect men do, but something that perfects the man.” I am blessed to have watched the process with my sons and their children as well. It is a wondrous thing to see how the love of a child transforms a new father – in baby steps, in some cases, and in leaps and bounds in others – especially when there is a crisis. This has been the case for my oldest son, whose youngest child is medically compromised and spent the first six months of his life in a children’s hospital, with seven surgical procedures before his first birthday. His homecare includes intravenous nutrition, day and night nurses, and constant monitoring for health issues that can send him back to the hospital at a moment’s notice. This past week has been one of those times. My daughter-inlaw took a photo of my grandson, all of 19 months old, standing in his bed in his child’s hospital gown with my son sitting next to him, waiting to be taken to surgery. He is reaching out to his dad, touching his chest, a look of worry and apprehension on his little face. My son is looking into his eyes, arm around his waist, undoubtedly assuring him without words that everything will be fine. The exchange was priceless, and I bawled my eyes out. What stood out in that single image was the most important virtue of fatherhood—presence. A father’s presence is the blessed assurance we sing about in Mass. Presence is what we need when we say to our Father,

“Hold my hand, lest I fall.” When a child grows up with this presence, there is a greater likelihood the child will eventually grow to understand what it means to live in the Presence of God. Divine Presence is the love that allows a father to grow into the courageous protector, the mentor, the example that all children need. There is no more important example than modeling for a child what it means to love and enabling them to feel safe. In his Apostolic Letter, Patris Corde, With a Father’s Heart, Pope Francis observes, “Fathers are not born, but made. A man does not become a father simply by bringing a child into the world, but by taking up the responsibility to care for that child. Whenever a man accepts responsibility for the life of another, in some way he becomes a father to that person.” And so it was with St. Joseph, the father to whom God entrusted his only son. Pope Francis describes Joseph as a father who “found happiness not in mere self-sacrifice but in self-gift. In him, we never see frustration but only trust. His patient silence was the prelude to concrete expressions of trust.” St. Joseph lived confidently in the presence of God, knowing the love that makes every vocation, especially fatherhood, possible. Mary Clifford Morrell is the author of “Things My Father Taught Me About Love” and “Let Go and Live: Reclaiming your life by releasing your emotional clutter.” June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 47

Community

Summer of Fun Camps, VBS programs return to Trenton Diocese

BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

arishes and Catholic social service agencies around the Diocese of Trenton are making plans to do what most could not last year: hosting Vacation Bible School and summer camps. “It’s going to be very different this year,” said Jeanine Loh, who runs the VBS program for St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square. “But hopefully it will be an uplifting, ‘life is happening’ kind of thing!” To ensure the health and safety of youngsters and volunteers, COVID-19 protocols that conform to the latest advice from the state Department of Health and federal Center for Disease Control and Prevention will be implemented – similarly to diocesan Catholic schools’ guidelines for in-person attendance during the 2020-2021 academic year: enhanced COVID-19 cleaning, social distancing and face masking.

FOR MORE INFORMATION St. Gregory the Great Parish VBS: email jeaninieloh@gmail.com Nativity Parish VBS: email SueH@NativityChurchNJ.org St. Mary Academy Knights Summer Camp: email sma@stmaryknights.org Resurrection Parish VBS and Art Workshop: call 856-461-6555 or email parishoffice@Resurrection2.org. For Art Workshop, also visit www.cldalyart.com or email artsmart134@gmail. com CYO Mercer Summer Camps: visit www.cyomercer.org/y_campTCS.html 48 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

Youngsters enjoy Vacation Bible School offered by Visitation Parish, Brick, in this 2017 photo. Youth and families alike are looking forward to the return of summer camps and VBS offerings across the Diocese after a hiatus due to COVID-19. John Batkowski photo St. Mary Academy, Manahawkin, already has the safety guidelines down pat, after a year of in-person instruction as well as its 2020 summer camp season. “Last summer allowed us to go through COVID-19 protocols and training, which helped us to open our school in the fall,” explained Principal Lizanne Coyne, who also heads the school’s summer camp. “We are fully prepared to open again, and we added a week on this year.” Attesting to the anticipation of summer fun ahead is the CYO Yardville Camp’s nearly full enrollment, with limited openings in the Mercer County Catholic Youth Organization’s other camps as well. “The excitement among the campers, staff and parents is extremely high for the return to camp,” said Tom Mladenetz, CYO executive director. Safety, he added, has always been at the forefront of its programs. “The CYO has always stressed ‘safety first’ for all its programs,” Mladenetz said. “In today’s environment, this is more important than ever.” For its Vacation Bible School, St. Gregory the Great Parish will offer priority to parishioners and prior participants. The VBS, which will run July 27-30 for first through fourth grades, has as its theme, “ROAR! Life is wild, God is good!” “Each day is a new topic; there’s lots of pre-planning, and volunteers come the week before to decorate the space,” Loh said. “It

Long-awaited CYO pool house set to open June 15 BY EMMALEE ITALIA  Contributing Editor

fter a yearlong COVID-19 delay, the Catholic Youth Organization of Mercer County is looking forward to the grand opening of its new Yardville CYO Pool House. The facility will officially open with a June 15 ceremony. The former pool house, constructed in 1958, was

demolished in September 2019, but the coronavirus pandemic forced a postponement of the much-anticipated reopening. “After a year of remote and hybrid learning, and limited socialization with their peers, kids need to just be kids and have some fun away from computer screens,” said Tom Mladenetz, CYO Mercer executive director. “The CYO will deliver on safe fun activities in a

beautiful setting.” Funds to rebuild the CYO Pool House came from a capital campaign before the pandemic. The project involved complete demolition of the 60-yearold structure, which had been deemed inadequate for many years. The former building was not accessible and relied on an antiquated septic system. Changing facilities offered little privacy and were apt to become overcrowded. Additional challenges were the limited bathroom and locker space for lifeguards and other camp staff. Continued on 62

The Catholic Youth Organization of Mercer County’s new pool house features two stories of state-of-the-art facilities. Jennifer Mauro photo

makes it fun to come in as a camper. As with every year, there will be a show that the parents can see on the final day.” A “save-the-date” has been issued for programs in Resurrection Parish, Delran, which include two options: a Vacation Bible School Aug. 9-13 led by high school teacher Jennifer Hunter, and a Children’s Art Workshop held Tuesdays and Thursdays July 6-29 taught by art teacher Christina Daly. The Vacation Bible School will follow a different theme and craft each day of the week, including themes such as “When I Should Pray” and “The Beatitudes.” “We hold the art workshop every year, and it’s open to the public,” parish business manager Trish Haran said. “There’s an art show on the evening of the last class – July 29 at 7 p.m.” The Vacation Bible School planned for Aug. 16-20 in Nativity Parish, Fair Haven, will tackle the theme “Rocky Railway: Jesus’ Power Pulls Us Through.” “All activities will be outdoors,” stated the parish bulletin announcement. “We will have a main stage where station leaders will rotate through with exciting activities. As usual, there

Characters from the “Peanuts” comic strip adorn the former CYO pool house, which was built in 1958.

will be Bible stories, music, science, games and snacks.” To maintain safety, an adult or teen leader from each family will remain with the younger children, keeping family groups separate. Vacation Bible School kits for use at home are also available. St. Mary Academy Knights  “Kids need to Summer Camp will run from June 28 to Aug. 12, with both be active.” full- and half-day options, and is open to the public. Junior Knights ages four to seven and Knights ages eight to 11 will explore a variety of activities, sports, art and academic-related topics. The school has a greenhouse, two children’s gardens and a koi pond, which will allow for plenty of outdoor engagement. “It’s important for kids to have fun and be expressive without worrying about the pressures of academic performance,” Coyne stressed. “They need stimulation from their peers. After facing a computer all day long, kids need to be active; exploration and movement help them to live a healthy lifestyle.” June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 49

Young Catholics

A Mind for Business Cinnaminson parishioner with Down syndrome promotes awareness with faith, determination BY BRIANNA PALMER  Correspondent

s the creator and owner of his own business, Jack Shallow has demonstrated savvy well beyond his 16

years of age. But his vision for his business – along with what he chooses to do with the funds he raises through the selling of shirts, masks, bandanas and bracelets

Jack Shallow, left, presents a donation to his pastor, Father Daniel Kirk, for COVID Relief Fund efforts taking place in St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Cinnaminson. Courtesy photso

– reflects his sense of compassion, too. His main goals are to spread awareness about Down syndrome and provide financial support for various causes through his website – Jacked Up Shirts. Jack was born with Down syndrome, and based on his experiences, he wants to “show the world just how NOT different we are.” “My friends love watching TV and so do I. My friends love playing games and sports, so do I,” the active member of St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Cinnaminson, firmly says. “Even though I have Down syndrome, I am just like all of them.” A longtime altar server, Jack’s faith and love of God drove him to want to help people and to give back to his community. “I love altar serving, saying prayers, and carrying the cross at Mass,” he said. During the COVID-19 pandemic, his business raised more than $2,000 for various charities, including St. Charles Borromeo’s COVID Relief Fund and Special Olympics, for which Jack competes as a member of the Special Olympics Swim Team. “I’ve never seen anyone more excited for Mass than Jack. He’s an amazing young man who is always thinking about others,” added Father Daniel Kirk, pastor of St. Charles Borromeo Parish.

Jack Shallow strives to help others through his online business. Facebook photo The burgeoning business continues to expand, aided by Jack’s immediate family. “Jack is the youngest of five siblings, and they all help with [his] business in any way they can,” said his mother, Monica. She explained that his sisters help Jack with his social media presence and organizing raffles to raise money for various charities. Jack’s venture has not only made a difference to his parish and community, but also to his immediate family. “Since I had Jack, I have become so much more understanding and accepting,” Monica Shallow said. “Jack is such a gift, and he has taught us all so much.” Looking forward, Jack is optimistic about what his business has in store. He is excited about expanding his products and creating new designs for his shirts He is also excited about the possibility of making “Blessings Baskets” for new moms who just gave birth to a baby with Down syndrome. “I love my business. It’s fun,” he said. “I have loved designing and making shirts, and I am excited to do more.”  Visit Jack’s business at www. jackedupshirts.com.

CHECK IT OUT Pick up the July issue of The Monitor Magazine for a look at this year’s St. Timothy Awards honorees! 50 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

In the Parishes Police personnel from the Long Branch Police Department were thanked for their service during a Mass celebrated in St. Michael Church, Long Branch. Here the officers pose for a photo with Father Butler, other clergy as well as town officials, following the Mass. Courtesy photo

Long Branch police honored at Mass for their dedication to service, community BY MARY STADNYK  Associate Editor

ong Branch Police Department members were recently acknowledged during Mass in St. Michael Church for dedication to their work, community and public safety. Father John Butler, pastor, noted that the LBPD and the City of Long Branch “have been extremely supportive of our parish and have been good neighbors in numerous respects.” During the Mass, which was celebrated May 16, the Solemnity of the

Ascension of the Lord, prayers were offered for the safety and perseverance of the officers as well as for the repose of the souls of LBPD members who have died in the line of duty over the years. “The Ascension of Jesus is a foreshadowing of our own destiny,” Father Butler said in his homily. “Beyond the stars in the universe above, beyond the clouds in the sky … [Jesus] is now seated at the right hand of the Father and that is where he is calling us to be. Jesus desires nothing more than for all of us to be right there with him forever and ever.” The Ascension of Jesus, Father Butler continued, is about the gift and the virtue

of hope, “one simple little word – hope.” “God raised Jesus from the dead on Easter Sunday and now Jesus is raised by God to heaven [at the Ascension]. And because Jesus is risen, we have hope that we, too, will rise and that one day heaven will be our home, our eternal prize, our eternal reward.” Participating in the Mass were bagpiper Michael Callahan, who led the Entrance Procession playing “Here I Am Lord”; a contingent of uniformed officers; Cpl. Kim Leavy, a parishioner who read the Prayers of the Faithful, and Captain Jorge Silverio, who presented Continued on 62

TRENTON’S ST. MICHAEL CHURCH OBSERVES CENTENARY MILESTONE St. Michael Church, the little brown structure on Brunswick Avenue in Trenton, is marking 100 years since it was consecrated by Bishop James A. McFaul. The kickoff for the centenary jubilee was April 4, Easter Sunday, when the Slovak community members within the church began a 100+ good deeds campaign, which will continue until the anniversary date, Dec. 11. The establishment of St. Michael traces its roots back to the end of the 19th century, when Slovak immigrants began arriving in the Trenton area and built two Catholic Churches to serve the faithful: St. Michael Church and Sts. Peter and Paul

Church. The latter is now closed. “For St. Michael’s Church, the 100th anniversary is a big milestone,” said Father Peter Bujdos. Major changes for St. Michael Parish surfaced in 2005 when it was merged with nearby St. Ann Parish, Lawrenceville. While the clergy from St. Ann Parish was given oversight of St. Michael Parish, the church itself today continues to serve as a worship site for three communities – the English-speaking, the Slovak and members of the Church of the Korean Martyrs. From staff reports June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 51

In the Parishes Divine Word Father Miguel Virella was principal celebrant of the last Mass to be celebrated in Holy Spirit Church, one of two worship sites of Mother of Mercy Parish, where he serves as pastor. Holy Spirit Church will close due to serious financial challenges. Joining Father Virella at the altar were the other priests who serve in the parish as well as from nearby parishes. Vic Mistretta photos

At closing Mass, Holy Spirit churchgoers bid farewell to iconic worship site BY LOIS ROGERS  Correspondent

ith its distinctive Gothic sanctuary tower, soaring stained glass windows and altars of gleaming carrara marble, Holy Spirit Church has shone as a beacon of faith for Catholics along the Asbury Park shoreline since it opened in 1880. Since then, generations have passed through its great bronze doors to celebrate the Sacraments as well as the joys, hopes and sorrows of the Catholic community. On June 6, hundreds of faithful shared emotions and memories as they gathered for the closing Mass of the venerable church which, in 2014, had become one of two worship sites of Mother of Mercy Parish as part of a merger. Late last year, Divine Word Father Miguel Virella, pastor, announced that Holy Spirit Church would need to close and explained some of the reasons behind the decision, including what he called “very serious financial challenges.” “The parish must deal with the costly impact of aging buildings, old machinery and equipment, underground oil tanks, rising insurance rates, the loss of rental income and, most unfortunately, de-

creasing Mass attendance and offertory gifts,” he said at the time. Among those present for the Farewell Mass was Marjorie Penrod, whose great-grandmother, Elizabeth O’Connor, donated the marble for the three altars in 1912 and was a strong financial supporter of Holy Spirit School. Just after the Mass, Penrod’s eyes grew misty as she recalled how the family remained linked to the church throughout the decades. “It was the centerpiece of their community life and family life,” she said. “My parents were married there. The babies were baptized there and made their First Communions there. Life revolved around the church.” The Holy Spirit community was particularly special, she said. “It was always just ‘The Church,’ and everyone loved it. No matter who you were, you were always welcome at Holy Spirit. The community has changed over the decades, but that welcoming tradition was always

52 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

Faithful fill Holy Spirit Church, Asbury Park, for a farewell Mass June 6. The church, one of two worship sites of Mother of Mercy Parish, will close because of financial difficulties. there for you.” The Mass, which included a procession of those who had volunteered over the years, was celebrated on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. Father Virella and Father Jerome Nolan, a retired priest of the Diocese who served as Holy Spirit’s pastor from 1986 to 1992, were among the concelebrating priests. In his homily, Father Virella drew from the Reading of Exodus, which recounts how Moses challenged the Israelites to do as the Lord asked them. “Brothers and sisters, as we celebrate this feast, it reminds me of the 40- year search for the Promised Land; the encampments, the obstacles and Continued on 58

Education

Longtime teacher remembered for dedication, ‘unique creativity’ BY BRIANNA N. PALMER  Correspondent

rayers, love and support of the community accompanied the family of Lara H. Enright May 18 at a memorial service held at J. Allen Funeral Home, Morrisville, Pa. Mrs. Enright, administrative assistant and teacher in Villa Victoria Academy, Ewing, died suddenly May 12 at the age of 50. A lifelong believer in Catholic education, Mrs. Enright attended St. Hedwig Grade School, where her late mother, Sally Hammerstone, was the former principal. She then graduated from Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville, and went on to attend Loyola University Maryland, Baltimore, where she met her husband, Rob Enright. Mrs. Enright earned undergraduate and master of arts degrees in psychology. Coworker Anita Toth, who knew Mrs. Enright for 35 years and grew up attending the same parish, recalls her service and passion for education from a young age. Toth remembered Mrs. Enright completing her service hours by teaching children at St. Hedwig while she was still a student at Notre Dame.

 “Mrs. Enright had a special gift for working with children of all ages.” “Even then, as a high-schooler, Mrs. Enright had a special gift for working with children of all ages,” she said. This gift continued with Mrs. Enright throughout her adult life, attested to most recently by her decade of service in Villa Victoria Academy. “Mrs. Enright was our go-to person for anything that needed to be made beautiful,” said Filippini Sister Lesley

Lara H. Enright Draper, school principal. “She had an innate gift for knowing just the right color, just the right style, just the right amount of elegance or pizzazz needed. We can look at the past several yearbooks and admire her creativity and know that in every picture we see the person or group is smiling at Mrs. Enright. She always added her personal touch to everything, which showed her heartfelt dedication to her Villa Family.” Athletic director and coach Cindy Smith echoed Toth’s commendations. “She filled in the cracks, she always saw things that needed to be done and did them,” Smith said. “She did so many little things and never wanted to be publicly thanked; she was very humble.” Mrs. Enright shared her time and talents with the Villa family for many years, filling roles such as after school supervisor, administrative assistant, yearbook moderator, ad and patron drive coordinator, communications coordinator, Senior Day coordinator, teacher and more – including “school mom” to many Villa girls. Mrs. Enright joined the Villa family as a parent when her daughter, Eleanor,

started as a PreK student. Ellie is now a junior at the school. During her time at Villa, Mrs. Enright was able to expand her roles in various capacities. Most notably, she took on the role of sixth-grade religion teacher this year – sharing her faith and teaching them to love God. One sixth-grade student wrote, “Mrs. Enright was the school mom and loved everyone ... We all loved her with all our hearts. ... Mrs. Enright always told us to be kind to others.” Students shared encouraging words and powerful stories of their beloved teacher. Isabella Quinn, junior, said that even former Villa Victoria students and alumnae have all come together to rally around their friend and classmate by attending the services and sending their prayers. “Mrs. Enright was not just a Villa mom, but a mom within Villa,” Quinn said. “She did so much for the VVA community, and she meant a lot to a lot of people.” Mrs. Enright was known among the VVA community for her spirit, generosity, encouragement, good humor and creativity. “While we are sad at her passing, we know that Mrs. Enright would be comforting us and encouraging us,” said Sister Lesley. “She would be refocusing us on being grateful for the time we had and encouraging us to not miss a moment to appreciate those around us. She would be leading us to enjoy the simple pleasures of life. In addition to her husband and daughter, Mrs. Enright is survived by two brothers and sisters-in-law and a niece and nephew. Memorial donations may be made to Villa Victoria Academy, 376 W. Upper Ferry Rd., Ewing Township, NJ, 08628 (www.villavictoria.org/giving/).

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 53

In Memoriam

 IN REMEMBRANCE, a listing of priests and deacons of the Diocese of Trenton who have died, can be found on TrentonMonitor.com>News>Obituaries

FATHER KRISAK, PRIEST OF TRENTON DIOCESE Father Anthony F. Krisak, a priest of the Diocese of Trenton, died June 3 at 71. Father Krisak was living in Maryland at the time of his death. Born in Trenton in 1949 to parents Anthony Joseph and Grace Marie (Adams) Krisak, he received a bachelor’s degree from St. Mary’s Seminary and University, Baltimore, in 1971, and earned a master of arts degree in sacred theology from The Catholic University of America, Washington, in 1974. He served his diaconal year assignment in Epiphany Parish, Brick, from 1974-75, and was ordained to the priesthood in 1975 for the Diocese of Trenton by Bishop George W. Ahr. Father Krisak went on to earn a master of theology degree from Jesuit School Theology, Berkeley, Ca., in 1980, followed by receiving a licentiate of sacred theology from CUA in 1987. He wrote extensively on sacramental and liturgical life, edited Evangelization Exchange, and developed numerous online courses and webinars on evangelization. Father Krisak served in parishes throughout New Jersey, Washington, D.C. and Maryland, including as parochial vicar in Corpus Christi Parish, Willingboro from 1975-1979; counseling associate, clinical pastoral associate, CUA, 1980-1985; director of worship, St. Rose of Lima Parish, 1989-1991; temporary administrator, St. Rose of Lima Parish, 1992-1993; assistant professor pastoral counseling, Loyola College, Columbia, Md. campus since 1988; executive director, Missionary Vehicle Association, Washington, since 1994. In lieu of flowers, memorial gifts may be made to St. Rose of Lima Parish, 11701 Clopper Rd., Gaithersburg, MD 20878. SISTER AGNES BORKOWSKI, SERVED IN FORMER HOPEWELL ORPHANAGE Franciscan Sister Agnes Borkowski (formerly Sister Walter Josephine), died May 25 in St. Joseph Medical Center, Baltimore, at age 93. A professed member of the Sisters of St. Francis of Philadelphia for 72 years, she entered the congregation in 1946 and professed her first vows in 1949. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in political science from Neumann University, Aston, Pa., and ministered primarily in childcare, elementary education and healthcare. OBITUARY INFORMATION  Additional obituaries will be posted to TrentonMonitor.com as information becomes available. 54 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

After professing her first vows, Sister Agnes moved to the Diocese of Trenton, where she ministered for five years in St. Michael Orphanage, Hopewell. Her other years in ministry included serving in the Dioceses of Allentown and Fall River and the Archdioceses of Philadelphia and Baltimore. Sister Agnes is survived by her sister, two brothers, nieces and nephews and her Franciscan family. Donations in her name can be made to the Sisters of St. Francis Foundation, 609 S. Convent Road, Aston, PA 19014. DR. JEWEL BRENNAN REMEMBERED FOR LIVING SPECIAL VOCATION WITH LOVE, JOY A Mass of Christian Burial was held June 3 in St. Gregory the Great Church, Hamilton Square, for Dr. Jewel Emily Brennan, a longtime parishioner, Hamilton resident and a consecrated virgin, who died May 27 at age 77. Upon learning of Dr. Brennan’s passing, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., offered condolences saying, “Dr. Brennan was a deeply devoted member of the faithful of the Diocese, ever present at many diocesan Masses and celebrations. She lived her special vocation as a consecrated virgin with love and joy, generously offering her service to those in need of an attentive and listening ear.” Born in San Juan, Puerto Rico, Dr. Brennan’s family moved to Woodbridge, where she attended the town’s St. James Grammar School and later St. Mary High School, Perth Amboy. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in education with a minor in theology from Georgian Court University, Lakewood; a master of arts degree in Scripture and Church history from Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology at Seton Hall University, South Orange; a master of arts degree in marriage and family therapy, also from Seton Hall University; a doctorate in psychology from Fordham University, New York City, and a doctor of ministry in pastoral theology from The Catholic University of America, Washington. Prior to serving many roles in the Diocese, including that as a certified annulment advocate with the diocesan Tribunal, Dr. Brennan was an adjunct professor in St. Joseph University, Phila.; a state licensed psychologist, and she operated her own private practice in Lawrenceville. She was a former principal clinical psychologist at the N.J. Department of Human Services and psychiatric director of developmental disabilities. She was also an adoption caseworker with the Diocese, where she assisted in adoption placement and parental counseling. In St. Gregory the Great Parish, Dr. Brennan served as an extraordinary minister of Holy Communion, sacristan and a member of the parish council, and also taught religious education in St. Gregory the Great Academy. On July 29, 1978, Dr. Brennan became a consecrated virgin, receiving the Rite of Order Consecration Virginum by then-Bishop George W. Ahr. She was a member of the USACV and presented numerous lectures on a national and international level to those living in full communion with the Church. Continued on 63

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2482 Church Rd., Toms River, NJ 08753

732-255-6363 • www.silvertonmemorial.com Paula De John, Manager, N.J. Lic. No. 3438 Gregory De John, Director, N.J. Lic. No. 4261

Burial & Cremation options • Prearrangement & Prepayment plans available

62 Cedar Grove Road Toms River, NJ 08753 732-244-3008 SAIwww.StJosephCemeteryTR.org NT MAXIMILIAN KOLBE CHURCH

Christ the King Catholic Mausoleum Offering mausoleum entombment & niches

SAIfor N AXAIXM N EH CUHRU RCH SATthe INM T inurnment M IMILILIIA A Ncremated KKOOLBLEBC CH of remains. e Kiningg C CaatthhoolilcicM ausaolueusomleum ChrCisthrtihstethK M

“Thoughtful service since 1891.”

MONMOUTH COUNTY

Consider the Ryan Family

To Comfort and Care for Your Family

Michael J. Ely

Albert D. Correnti, Jr., Manager • NJ Lic. No. 3538 John A. Oliveti, Director • NJ Lic. No. 4012 Albert D. Correnti III, Director • NJ Lic. No. 4886 Anthony J. Correnti, Director • NJ Lic. No. 5030

www.matherhodge.com

Timothy E. Ryan, Founder •1951-2019•

3316 Hwy. 33 Neptune, NJ 07753 732-918-6650 N.J. Lic. No. 4729

40 Vandeventer Avenue, Princeton, NJ 08542 609-924-0242

OCEAN COUNTY

www.elyfuneralhome.com

Offering mausoleum entombment & niches

Offering mausoleum entombment & niches for the inurnment of cremated remains. for the inurnment of cremated remains.

OCEAN COUNTY George S. Hassler Funeral Home George S. Hassler, Owner, Dir., NJ Lic. No. 3193 Brian T. Hassler, Manager, NJ Lic. No. 4054 980 Bennetts Mills Road, PO Box 1326, Jackson, N.J. 08527

(732) 364-6808 www.hasslerfuneralhome.com Member of St. Aloysius Holy Name Society and K of C 6201

Manchester Memorial Funeral Home, LLC • Competent and Personal •

Thomas J. Tedesco, Mgr., N.J. Lic. No. 3131 Member of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Holy Name Society

(732) 350-1950 • 28 Schoolhouse Rd., Whiting, NJ

Looking for a final resting place for yourself or a loved Looking for a final resting place for yourself or a loved one? one? Christ the King Mausoleum serves as a sacred Christ the King Mausoleum serves as a sacred placeplace of comfort, faith hopewhere where family of comfort, faithand and hope family and and friends cancan gather andremembrance. remembrance. friends gatherininprayer prayer and Looking for a final resting place for yourself or a loved Callafor a personal consultation toto offer guidance as as Cone? all for personal consultation offer guidance Christ themake King Mausoleum serves as a sacred you this important decision. makefaith this important decision. place of you comfort, and hope where family and 732-914-0300 732-914-0300 friends can Maximilian gather in Lane, prayer and remembrance. 130 Saint Toms River, NJ 08757 wa wpersonal wMaximilian . s t m a xconsultation i m iLane, lianko l b eto ch u r c hguidance .NJ c o m08757as Saint Toms River, Ca130 ll for offer w w w .you s t mmake axim i l iimportant a n k o l b edecision. church.com this

732-914-0300 June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 55 130 Saint Maximilian Lane, Toms River, NJ 08757 www.stmaximiliankolbechurch.com

CONFERENCE TIMING COULDN’T BE BETTER Continued from 29

pastor of St. Mary Parish. “It offered participants the opportunity to experience healing and freedom in Christ Jesus.” This year’s speakers, Patrick Reis and Ryan Mahle, offered talks that served as balm to attendees who, in many instances, had endured 14 months of separation and isolation. The sessions led by Reis included insights on overcoming the discouragement that can be connected with healing and imparting the gift of healing. Mahle elaborated on the power of testimony and words of knowledge for healing. Enthusiasm was palpable as Reis and Mahle shared personal testimonies. On the subject of overcoming discouragement, Reis shared how recently someone expressed opposition to what he was doing. “He thought I was a charlatan,” Reis said. But after prayer and consideration, the man changed his mind. “This is Pentecost week,” said Reis, who used the story to illustrate that “the Holy Spirit is alive and doing what Jesus” wants his followers to do by praying for the renewal of minds. Mahle spoke of the “power of testimony and words of knowledge,” drawn especially from stories of the

saints to “cultivate an atmosphere of grace,” which he said is a major goal of a healing service. “Turn to the saints for stories of their love of the Lord, people like Padre Pio who were called to a magnitude of grace.” “Be wary of embellishment,” he added. “Encourage involvement and keep the focus on God. Let our light shine before others – be authentic.” Mahle also urged the faithful to share words of knowledge and fact from the Gospels. “The words don’t necessarily heal, but they build faith.”

CELEBRATING ST. RITA Continued from 31

faithful with a relic of St. Rita. THE ATTRACTION TO THE NATIONAL SHRINE

Jerome and Augustinian Father Michael DiGregorio, who served on the shrine’s staff for 15 years from 1992 to 2007, reflected on why the shrine has drawn untold thousands of people from across the country and around the globe to South Philadelphia for the past 114 years. Among the many reasons, he said, is that the shrine appealed to many Italian immigrants in the South Philadelphia area at the time of her canonization who were heartened that the saint was Italian. People, Father DiGregorio

56 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

continued, have related to St. Rita because she was known as the saint of the impossible, and over the years, he said, stories have been shared about how parents had come to the shrine to pray for the birth of a child and mothers who had difficulty in their pregnancies. Jerome added that the shrine’s charisms are informed by the Augustinians who have staffed the church since the beginning. The shrine’s “message, mission and our ministry are really rooted in the life of St. Rita,” he said. All visitors to the shrine will find it to be “primarily a place of pilgrimage” where Mass and the Sacrament of Reconciliation are celebrated daily, Jerome said. In addition, the shrine is available for various groups and purposes, such as retreats for students and teachers, as well as weddings and funerals. There is also a counseling center to assist individuals dealing with such issues as sexual abuse. Jerome noted that another unique aspect of the shrine is that it’s operated by the Augustinian order, who “are known for being of one mind and of one heart in their pursuit of God. “We really infuse that in so many aspects of our ministry,” Jerome said. “St. Rita was an Augustinian nun and she knew better than anyone how important this charism was in her own life and the way she

found God in the end.” RELATING TO RITA

Both Father DiGregorio and Jerome reiterated how people over the years have related to the life of St. Rita, who was a daughter, a wife, a widow, a mother and a professed religious. “St. Rita is a saint for all people,” Jerome said. Her life speaks to the diversity of vocations that we see in the Church today,” Jerome said. “Men and women of all ages, all ethnicities come to the shrine because that resonated with them. They can connect to her story and her reliance on God and perseverance in difficult times.” “All of us experience a moment or moments where something seems impossible and St. Rita had lived through tragedy and overcame it with perseverance, hope and deep faith. Her story really connects with every generation, every ethnicity,” he said. “If any moment in your life seems impossible, if anything feels overwhelming, ask St. Rita for her intercession. Invite her to be a friend of yours,” Jerome said. “She will serve as a companion as you draw closer to God and really understand God’s will in your life.” Video interviews conducted by freelance photographer Mike Ehrmann contributed to this story.

Arts & Media

‘Welcome True Believers’ New devotional ties sci-fi, superhero themes to Christianity BY JENNIFER MAURO  Managing Editor

ennifer Schlameuss-Elsensohn looks for Christian themes in all aspects of her life – including one of her favorite genres, nerd culture. “Whether it’s a TV, movie, nature, human interactions … whatever’s going on in the world, I look for God there,” said the pastoral associate in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold. That’s one reason Schlameuss-Elsensohn and her husband, the Rev. Jonathan Elsensohn of First Baptist Church, Freehold, are contributors to a new Christian devotional, “Thy Geekdom Come Vol. 2.”

 “These stories really do cover main Christian themes ...” The book, published by Mythos & Ink, is an ecumenical effort composed of 42 science fiction-inspired devotionals. Each includes Scripture readings and a short set of study questions. Writers come from numerous faith backgrounds and tie Christian themes to shows and movies such as “Doctor Who,” “Firefly,” “Teen Titans,” “Fringe,” “Star Trek,” “2001: A Space Odyssey” and more.

Jennifer Schlameuss-Elsensohn and her husband, the Rev. Jonathan Elsensohn, pose for a photo wearing T-shirts from “Star Wars Episode V: The Empire Strikes Back.” Schlameuss-Elsensohn is also wearing a Doctor Who scarf, circa the Fourth Doctor. Screenshot

MORE INFORMATION  “Thy Geekdom Come Vol. 2” is available online and from most major book sellers.  Want to check out more nerd culture writing by Jennifer Schlameuss-Elsensohn? Pick up a copy of her 2018 book, “Comic Con Christianity.”

“The themes that are in sci-fi, fantasy and superhero genres are human. They show struggles and also use the same language as Christianity,” Schlameuss-Elsensohn said. “They talk about justice, sacrifice; they talk about journey, reconciliation, forgiveness. These stories really do cover main Christian themes …” “Like faith, hope and love,” Rev. Elsensohn finished. “The characters,” Schlameuss-Elsensohn continued, “fight for the vulnerable. Superheroes, for example, could take over the world, but they don’t. They fight horrible things to be rejected, to be scorned, to be outcast by the people they’re saving. It kind of reminds you of a certain man who died on the Cross for us, you know?” “A lot of these superheroes work for the betterment of the world as a whole,” Rev. Elsensohn said. “And they face prej-

udice and distrust. The X-Men are an extended metaphor for what it means to be excluded because of who you are. … So this question of justice, this question of a better world that we all have to work into is fertile ground for exploration. If you come from a tradition that doesn’t have a lot of teaching about that as part of your ecumenical or denominational teachings, it can be a point of entry.” Bringing different faiths together is one hope that Mythos & Ink has for the book – a sequel to “Thy Geekdom Come” published in 2019. Schlameuss-Elsensohn wrote a chapter for the first book, too. “We purposefully set out to make an ecumenical devotional to learn from each other and to promote inclusion instead of division,” said Allison Alexander, Mythos & Ink editorial director. Said Kyle Rudge, business and marketing director, “We approached “Thy Continued on 62

We would like to thank TOSHIBA, exclusive provider of copier services in the Diocese of Trenton Chancery building, for their sponsorship of this page.

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 57

NEW SCHOOL YEAR TO BE FULLY IN-PERSON Continued from 33

are a tangible example of our Catholic communities in action and a testament to what we can accomplish together.” Simultaneously instructing in-person and online students, he acknowledged, was a huge undertaking for teachers this past year. “Concurrent teaching of this kind takes enormous preparation and elevated focus all day, every day,” Dr. Schmidt emphasized. “It has been exhausting for the teachers, but they have maintained their efforts because they believe deeply that it is their vocation to teach as Jesus did – to serve all students by meeting their specific needs.” The concurrent teaching of

in-person and remote students was taken on, he noted, “as an emergency solution to a crisis situation at the beginning of the school year. As an emergency solution, it will result in some long-term changes in practice, such as greater use of technology, overall.” A growing body of evidence both nationally and globally, Dr. Schmidt noted, indicated that the precautions in place for the 2020-2021 academic year helped keep transmission of COVID-19 “relatively rare,” and diocesan schools helped to successfully mitigate the spread of the disease. “Almost all cases of COVID-19 that have impacted our schools originated outside of the school and did not spread to others inside the school,” he explained. “All students enrolled for the 2021-2022 school year are expected to attend school in person,” he

58 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

continued. “All schools will continue to implement measures to minimize the spread of COVID-19 that are appropriate throughout the school year. Our schools will continue to partner with local health agencies to monitor the COVID-19 situation and adhere to requirements that are in effect at that time.” Local school planning teams for the upcoming year will work on solutions for student absences for quarantine recommendations, should they arise, tailored to age-appropriate responses to help students keep on track academically. Planning teams will also evaluate extracurricular activities and athletics for safety and make recommendations, Dr. Schmidt noted, while staying flexible to respond to the most current information. With only a few weeks of the school year remaining, Dr. Schmidt urged families to continue to behave responsibly outside of school grounds – continuing to stay home when sick and be tested for COVID-19 if necessary – to protect the health and safety of the wider community. “Please remain vigilant to these measures as we seek to finish the school year as strong as we started it.”

as a legal category of persons deserving special protection. Instead, the new law refers to people whom the law recognizes as deserving of the same protection extended to minors and those with “an imperfect use of reason.”

CLOSING OF CHURCH Continued from 52

the challenges they had to go through. The great sacrifices they had to make. Something important made them strong … though the journey was difficult.” “It reminds us of our own journey,” which began when Holy Spirit Church formed 128 years ago. The journey will continue, he assured, “only the building will cease to be.” The care and love of the church will continue with God’s help, he said. “Today more than ever, we honor this journey.” It’s been an ongoing journey, he said, one of many changing demographics and needs that resulted in mergers and now the church’s closing. “We have asked the Lord to give us wisdom” in discerning what was “best for the parish as a whole. Some people were very disappointed. Some were hurt. But we had to consider the CANON LAW CHANGES options,” said Father Virella. “Letting go is very difficult,” he Continued from 38 said. “As we celebrate this last Mass here, we must continue the journey. Arrieta said, and for Catholics its meaning “is clear,” which is necessary I want everybody to continue on at Mother of Mercy. Continue to pray when drafting a law that will be valid on every continent and in every with one another – that gives us hope. Look for the light.” culture. The service drew to a poignant In incorporating recent Church close with parish trustees Tom law regarding abuse, the new code does not refer to abuse of “vulnerable” Sobieszczyk and Lydia Okunseinde adults or “vulnerable persons” as Pope reading a litany of all of the ministries and programs that had enhanced Francis did in his May 2019 motu parish life over the decades and proprio, “Vos estis lux mundi.” Bishop Arrieta said the term “vul- finally, the ritual extinguishing of the altar candles and altar cloths and nerable person,” while understood removal of the Holy Eucharist from and recognized in the law of many the tabernacle. countries, is not universally accepted

SICKLE USE FOR IT SOWN BRANCHES THE WORD

HARVEST MUSTARD SMALLEST BIRD ABLE

FULL GRAIN

K W

M M

C L

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A K F

M E

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P            

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

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   

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SHADE

V            



ON EARTH PRIVATE

      

BIRD ABLE

THE WORD

A            

BRANCHES

T            

SMALLEST

           

SOWN

        

SEED

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MUSTARD

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USE FOR IT



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PARABLE

       

HARVEST

       

FULL GRAIN

NIGHT



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SICKLE

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SHEEP

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Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the 11th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B: the mustard seed parable. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

           

       

Gospel for June 13, 2021  Mark 4:26-34

   



SCRIPTURE SEARCH

SCATTER

PARABLE SEED ON EARTH SHADE Fun PRIVATE & Games

Search FUN & GAMES at TRENTONMONITOR.COM to find more SCRIPTURE SEARCH puzzles to print at home.

TEST YOUR CATHOLIC KNOWLEDGE ACROSS 2 Eden fruit? 5 Old Testament hymn 8 Leader of the Church 9 Rev.’s alma mater 1

11 Genuflection joint 13 ___ of Contrition 14 Pilate ordered this above the cross (abbr.) 15 Catholic actor Guinness

6 7

8 13

16 17

25 26

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

29 30

32 35

Answers on back page.

16 “…the kingdom of heaven is like a ___” (Mt 13:47) 17 ___ Union 20 Holy 22 “___ the handmaid of the Lord…” 27 Priestly 28 “How Great Thou ___” 29 NT epistle 30 What we are forbidden to do by the fifth commandment 32 ___ of omission 33 Easter flower 35 Holy ___ 36 Direction from Bethlehem to the Jordan 37 First of the twelve Minor Prophets 38 Abbr. for two NT epistles DOWN 1 James’s father 3 Homily giver 4 “…the ___ will be first…”

(Mt 20:16) 5 “Blessed are you who are ___” (Lk 6:20) 6 ___ of the Covenant 7 Religious offshoots 10 “Ite, ___ est” 12 Papal ambassador 18 ___ Pio 19 Boss monk 21 Papal residence, ___ Gandolfo 23 Title for the pope 24 Outer vestment worn by a deacon 25 Paul was upset because of the number of these in Athens 26 Catholic artist Picasso 31 The Archdiocese of Dubuque is here 32 Brother of Cain 34 “…be ___ and your no…” (Jas 5:12)

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

We would like to thank WILLIS TOWERS WATSON, Property/Casualty broker for the Diocese of Trenton, for their sponsorship of this page.

June 2021  THE MONITOR MAGAZINE 59

BISHOPS ATTEND MIGRATION SUMMIT Continued from 40

bishops kept the plight of the Salvadoran woman and others like her in mind. Archbishop Gustavo Rodriguez Vega of Yucatán, Mexico, the main celebrant, said that the meeting had been extraordinary, inspired and guided by the Holy Spirit. At the end of gathering, many bishops in the room, from the U.S. and Central America, pledged to implement measures in their dioceses to help migrants, whether they were passing through their dioceses or becoming permanent residents in their localities. Cardinal Michael Czerny, undersecretary for the Vatican’s Migrants and Refugees Section, addressed the meeting via Zoom. “Each of you participating in these discussions is located somewhere: ecclesially, institutionally, professionally, geographically,” he said. “Your parishes encounter migrants in many ways: There are parishes of departure, parishes of

transit, parishes of arrival, parishes of short- or long-term settlement, and parishes of return.” “The pastoral task includes to welcome, to protect, to promote and to integrate. There are a myriad of opportunities and challenges for the communities all along the migrant’s way,” the Cardinal continued. “This meeting will succeed if each one really tries to listen and understand ‘walking in the other’s shoes.’” The meeting, brought about because of what likely may become increasing numbers of migrants, is one about facing “enormous” pastoral challenges, he said, but he encouraged the prelates to find ways to create a “Church without borders,” one in which a person passing through will feel the welcome the Gospel calls on Christians to extend. “Responding, these are some dimensions of pastoral ministry: to accept and guide the discernment of those departing, to support those who remain, to care for those in transit, to seek out those who arrive, to welcome returnees and to liberate and rehabilitate those who have been

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. 60 THE MONITOR MAGAZINE  June 2021

trafficked,” Cardinal Czerny said. He encouraged work on both sides, those welcoming migrants and ministering to those facing conditions that led them on a dangerous journey, working to address the conditions that displace them. “Meaningful opportunities seem available during the present U.S. administration to pursue immigration policy reform, including policy innovations,” Cardinal Czerny said, “and to advance protections for migrants, asylum-seekers and refugees, comprehensive immigration reform, more robust commitments to refugee resettlement, protections for climate displaced persons, addressing the drivers of migration, equitable access to COVID-19 vaccines in sending countries.” He urged them to dialogue with government institutions, explaining to them: “This is what we do, and then this is what we ask for, push for.” Participants from organizations such as Catholic Relief Services, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and other nonprofits said they had been reaching out to U.S. government officials, dialoguing with them on behalf of policies to help migrants. Building a “Church without borders,” Cardinal Czerny said, means “that people’s needs take precedence over nationality, self-interest, conventional norms.” He added: “We are sorry that artificial and unjust barriers get erected to divide the human family and push people to the margins of social, economic, political (and sometimes even Church) life. While accepting national boundaries as legitimate, we want the Church’s compassionate ministry to go beyond political divisions.”

TIANANMEN VIGIL Continued from 41

of the Tom Lantos Human Rights Commission, Rep. Chris Smith, R-N.J., said, “We remember Tiananmen each

year because it is too important to forget and too dangerous to recognize inside China.” Rep. Smith, a resident of Hamilton who calls St. Gregory the Great Parish in Hamilton Square his spiritual home in New Jersey, stated, “While the Chinese Communist Party survived the seismic political shifts that brought down the Berlin Wall and Eastern European and Soviet communism, we must nevertheless recommit today – and for as long as it takes – to the freedom of every man, woman, and child living in China.” “We must dare to hope ... the Chinese Communist Party’s cruelty, depravity and selfish governance need not be forever,” Smith added. “We will always stand with the oppressed – not the oppressor – no matter how long it takes.” Bork and the Committee for Freedom in Hong Kong also have spoken out about the recent imprisonment of Catholic media tycoon and philanthropist Jimmy Lai. He was recently sentenced to 12 months in jail after being found guilty of unauthorized assembly. Ucanews.com reported he was among nine activists in court April 16 who earlier were found guilty of charges relating to pro-democracy demonstrations in Hong Kong. Lai, 73, has donated millions of dollars to Catholic causes and has been the biggest financial backer of Cardinal Joseph Zen Ze-kiun, retired archbishop of Hong Kong, ucanews. com reported. The pro-democracy protest in Beijing’s central Tiananmen Square in April 1989 began as a student-led occupation calling for political and economic liberalization. After several weeks, when negotiations between the protesters and the government failed, Communist Party officials sent in a column of tanks and armed troops into Tiananmen Square June 4 and fired on civilians. The night ended in bloodshed.

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Monitor Magazine June 2021 In Focus: Ordinations

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