August 8, 2019

Religious reflects on benefits of retreat in special section, pages 12-13

Spirit atholic C THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

AUGUST 8, 2019 • VOL. 24 NO. 14 • $2.00

Scouts honored at annual Mass

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

PISCATAWAY — “Our Catholic faith is more valuable than any pearl, and we should be very careful not to waste it,” Father John J. Barbella reminded the boy and girl Catholic Scouts seated before him in the chapel of the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center June 25. “Instead, we should make every effort we can to live our faith fully, to learn it more completely, as many of you have done by earning your religious medals.”

Some 44 youth from 19 parishes of the Diocese of Metuchen gathered with family and loved ones to celebrate that intersection of faith and scouting accomplishments at the annual Catholic Scouting Mass. Father Barbella, pastor of St. Philip and St. James Parish, Phillipsburg, was appointed the new diocesan Catholic Scouting Apostolate moderator earlier this year. Assisting at the liturgy was Deacon J.P. Saggese, chairperson of the diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting for Boys, who exercises his ministry in the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen.

As young men, both Father Barbella and Deacon Saggese had achieved the rank of Life Scout in the Catholic Boy Scout program, one level before Eagle Scout, and which is designed to develop leadership, responsibility and community service as merit badges are earned.

Father Barbella told the scouts, “I have been involved in scouting since before I was ordained 37 years ago.”

Father John J. Barbella, moderator, diocesan Scouting Apostolate, accepts the communion gifts at Mass at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center chapel from Michael Gallagher (right) and Jovin Percoco (left) of Troop 129.

—John Batokowski photo

Continued on page 8

INSIDE Perspectives Our Faith

Rocky Mountain Makeover

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Around the Diocese

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Diocesan Events

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Classifieds

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Catholic retreat center visited by St. John Paul going strong...3 This issue was mailed on August 6 Your next issue will be September 5

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New law will further desensitize value of human life

UP FRONT

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

The New Jersey Bishops as well as Catholics and others from across the state fought for more than seven years to oppose this law. Passage of this law points to the utter failure of government, and indeed all society, to care truly, authentically and humanely for the suffering and vulnerable in our midst especially those living with an incurable disease as well One of the cherished hallmarks as the frail elderly, the infirm and those of being a Christian is that we always living with disabilities. have hope. Hope is our gift from God Assisted suicide is a grievous afthat proclaims there is never a situation front to the dignity of human life and so desperate that we would have to re- can never be morally justified. The legal sort to an evil means to find a solution. permission now granted to this practice This is especially does not change the true in promoting the law. With this Assisted suicide is a griev- moral sacredness of every law, the elderly could human life, even ous affront to the dignity of feel undue pressure when there is serious to view this as an opillness and suffering. human life and can never be tion to prevent being In hope we can see morally justified. The legal a burden to others suffering as a sign of and young people permission now granted God’s presence and will begin to think love. This is why it that people can and to this practice does not deeply saddens me should be disposto have to write to change the moral law. With able. Indeed, with address the reality law there will be this law, the elderly could this that has taken a step a further desensitizainto the darkness of feel undue pressure to view tion of the value of despair by accepting human life. this as an option to as law physicianAs Catholics, assisted suicide. we are called to prevent being a burden to On August 1, show a different apothers and young people proach to death and the new law, the “Medical Aid in Dythe dying; one which will begin to think that ing for the Terminalaccompanies every ly Ill Act,” went into people can and should be person as they are effect in our state. It dying and allows disposable. permits physicianthem to love and to assisted suicide for be loved to the very competent, New Jersey residents over the end. The purposeful termination of huage of 18 who have been diagnosed with man life via a direct intervention is not a a terminal illness and have six months or humane action whatsoever. We ought to less to live. Physician-assisted suicide is look instead to minimizing the pain and suicide by a patient facilitated by means suffering of the dying and those who are (as a drug prescription) or by informa- tempted to end their lives. tion (as an indication of a lethal dosage) Because Saint Peter’s University provided by a physician aware of the Hospital is a Catholic institution sponpatient’s intent. sored by the Diocese of Metuchen, it

Bishop James Checchio

Catholic Spirit

AUGUST 8, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

Serving the Catholic community in Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties

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complies with the Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services (commonly referred to as the ERDs) that are issued by the United State Conference of Catholic Bishops. The ERDs clearly state that “Catholic health care institutions may never condone or participate in euthanasia or assisted suicide in any way.” Therefore, our hospital will not be cooperating with this moral evil.

With the passage of this law by the legislature and the signing by our governor, we are facing dark times. As a Church, we will not stop from advocating for the sanctity of human life, in all stages, and we will continue to educate our legislators, our fellow Catholics and the general public about the dangers of legalized physician-assisted suicide.

Let us strive to help the sick and incapacitated find meaning in their lives, even and especially in the midst of their

suffering. Let us comfort those facing terminal illness or chronic conditions through our genuine presence, human love and medical assistance. Let us, as a society and as individuals, choose to walk with them, in their suffering, not contribute to eliminating the gift of life.

We look to Our Blessed Mother in our fight to end the threats to human life and a growing culture of death. She is our model and our example of how every human being should be treated as a gift at the beginning and end of life.

God bless you and thank you for all you do to promote life in our diocese, state and country!

The Most Reverend James F. Checchio, JCD, MBA Bishop of Metuchen

The Bishop’s Schedule

Aug. 10 6 p.m. Mass at Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Our Lady of Hungary worship site, Perth Amboy Aug. 11 10:30 a.m. Mass at St. Mary of Ostrabrama Parish, South River Aug. 11 noon Mass at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Milltown Aug. 13 9:15 a.m. Mass at St. Cecelia Parish, Iselin Aug. 22 10 a.m. USCCB Committee on Clergy, Consecrated Life and Vocations Meeting, Newark Aug. 24 5 p.m. Mass at Holy Trinity Parish, Bridgewater Aug. 25 9 a.m. Mass at St. Francis Cabrini Parish, Piscataway Aug. 25 11 a.m. Mass at Good Shepherd Parish, Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary worship site, Hopelawn Aug. 27 10 a.m. Opening Mass for principals and teachers at St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park Aug. 28 9 a.m. Mass at the Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women, Union Township, Hunterdon County Aug. 29 8:45 a.m. Mass at St. John Vianney Parish, Colonia Sept. 6 7 p.m. Confirmation at St. Joseph Parish, North Plainfield Sept. 7 4 p.m. Mass for the 75th Anniversary of the Parish at Corpus Christi Parish, South River Sept. 8 9 a.m. Mass at Parish of the Visitation, St. John the Baptist worship site, New Brunswick Sept. 8 10:30 a.m. Mass at Our Lady of Mount Carmel, New Brunswick For updates on Bishop Checchio's schedule visit: http://diometuchen.org/bishop/schedule

The Bishop’s Appointments Bishop James F. Checchio recently announced the following assignments effective Aug. 1:

Rev. Anthony Dukru, parochial vicar at St. Helena Parish, Edison, has been appointed parochial vicar at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Old Bridge Rev. Gerardo Paderon, parochial vicar at St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Old Bridge, has been appointed administrator at Queenship of Mary Parish, Plainsboro Rev. Michael Venditti, has been appointed Morris Canal Deanery Supply Priest with residence at St. Joseph Parish, Washington Rev. John Werner, has been appointed parochial vicar at St. Helena Parish, Edison

Correction

In a caption on page 5 of the July 25 edition of “The Catholic Spirit,” two uses of the question, “Where are you going” (in Latin, “Quo vadis?”) were mistakenly combined into one. Peter uses the phrase in John 13:36 in connection with Jesus’ prediction of his approaching passion and death. Peter asks the same question of Jesus when the Apostle is fleeing persecution in Rome and meets the Lord entering the city.

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Image Week

of the SPECIAL FEATURE

Where in the diocese can it be found?

Colorado retreat, trail made famous by pope during WYD ‘93 gets makeover

By Tom Tracy Catholic News Service ALLENSPARK, Colo. — Mountains don’t really change that much in 26 years. So it’s a fair bet that the view of Mount Meeker and its twin, Longs Peak, from the Camp St. Malo Retreat is the same one St. John Paul II saw when he strolled the camp’s grounds in 1993.

The retreat center was made famous during the pope’s epic World Youth Day visit to Denver, considered a huge success for the Catholic Church in the U.S. and for the pontiff.

Situated on the northern Front Range of the Rocky Mountains and just south of the town of Estes Park —

— CNS photos/Tom Tracy

in the process of restoring the St. John Paul hiking trail and a new memorial pavilion named in his honor, along with a refurbished rosary walk and outdoors stations of the cross.

A new Visitor and Heritage Center is already open and features a number of exhibits celebrating the ‘93 papal visit, including a display of St. John Paul’s walking stick, which was reportedly crafted for him by a member of the U.S. Secret Service.

On a sunny mid-June day, when an African-born priest and chaplain to the camp was celebrating a weekly Wednesday afternoon Mass, some dozen guests and staff filled in the 100-seat facility.

Any chapel with so arresting a setting, and situated along the route to so popular a national park, is bound to attract local Catholics, wedding couples looking for a perfect church, as well as a trickle of spontaneous passersby.

“We see as few as 20 a day on the snowiest of winter days and as many as 500 a day in the busy summer months of June, July and August,” said Jim Richard. He and his wife are Continued on page 9

Last issue's image...

The image, which was featured on page 3 of the July 25 issue of The Catholic Spirit, can be found at Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, Raritan

The winner is...

Kimberly Hirsch, parishioner To be a winner, you must call (732) 562-2424 after 9 a.m. Monday.

The first caller to correctly identify the image and its location will receive a one year subscription, renewal or gift subscription to The Catholic Spirit. Those who correctly identify an image are not eligible to take another guess for 90 days.

AUGUST 8, 2019

Jim Richard, pictured June 20 and his wife are full-time volunteer greeters and self-described docents at the Chapel on the Rock, formally named St. Catherine of Siena Chapel in Allenspark, Colo., near Estes Park. The chapel is on the grounds of the Camp St. Malo Retreat Center, which was made famous during St. John Paul II's epic World Youth Day visit to Denver in 1993.

Above, a statue of Christ and a World War II memorial overlooks the Chapel on the Rock, formally named St. Catherine of Siena Chapel in Allenspark, Colo., near Estes Park, is seen June 19, 2019.

The chapel is on the grounds of the Camp St. Malo Retreat Center, which was made famous during St. John Paul II's epic World Youth Day visit to Denver in 1993.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

the gateway to Rocky Mountain National Park — Camp St. Malo is home to a picturesque 1930s-era Chapel on the Rock. Its formal name is St. Catherine of Siena Chapel.

When he asked to have a day or two of rest during that historic visit, the pope was escorted to this mountain site by then-Denver Archbishop J. Francis Stafford. The future saint then blessed the chapel, walked the trails and took a siesta in the former conference center facility.

In 2011, a fire destroyed the retreat facility. The Denver Archdiocese later bought a church lodge down the road and created the Annunciation Heights facility for families and youth. It opened last year.

But the rustic trails and rosary walk that St. John Paul would have experienced have remained closed to the public following devastating floods and landslides in September 2013. Although heavy rains caused an estimated $1.2 billion in damages statewide, they left the popular chapel mostly intact.

The Denver Archdiocese is now

4 PERSPECTIVES

‘Death with dignity’ does not accrue from narcotics Body & Soul

By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD On Thursday, August 1, a pall was cast over the state of New Jersey as Governor Phil Murphy signed “Death with dignity” legislation into law. This made physician-assisted suicide legal.

Should one who is “terminal” get the okay from a psychologist, who will assure that the person is of sound mind and right judgment, he or she can then request from a physician, a prescription of a death-inducing drug. Advocates for the law believe that those who are suffering from a terminal illness or condition can then choose when they end their lives “with dignity.”

Has anyone taken the time to learn what the Church teaches about human suffering? Several popes have written extensively on the subject. Suffering is never absurd. When joined to the suffering of Christ on the Cross, it is vicarious. It can be applied to assist

the souls in purgatory who cannot aid themselves. It can benefit others suffering here on earth by reducing their physical suffering or by giving them spiritual solace. It is a redemptive suffering inasmuch as offering it for others is not only a gift but ultimately helps them to attain beatitude with God. While Catholics are instructed that all life is sacred from conception to natural death, and that only God can choose the time and place when someone dies, we, Catholics, are also taught that death is not the worst thing that can happen to us. Death is not the end of human life but a passageway to a new and better existence where there will be no more tears, no more suffering, no more goodbyes. Described in Scripture as the life of glory, marked by peace, joy and perpetual rest in the presence of God, this existence is the ultimate goal for all humankind.

Sadly, there are too many of us, Catholics, who are swayed by the allurement of an expedient death. The notion that we can choose the day when we are to die, should we be diagnosed as “terminal” and are still in

possession of our faculties, empowers us to play God with our own lives.

Will future “death with dignity” legislation widen the arena of those who can request physician assisted suicide? Case in point, families who have a loved one diagnosed with Alzheimer’s Disease or any form of irreversible dementia? Some families will argue that such individuals have lost their human dignity because of the inability to speak, understand language or recognize others from their circle of family and friends. Others will say Alzheimer’s has killed the mind of their loved one while just the mechanics of the body keep that person physically alive. They will ask: “Is this a life?”

Will future legislation include those with disabilities, such as a paralyzed person who is on a ventilator for the remainder of life? Or how about the child with Cerebral Palsy?

Or an adult with MS or ALS? Seemingly futile medical interventions may promise to extend the lifespan but not the quality of that life. Some will ask: “What about the economic burden which the beneficiaries inherit?

So what is the answer? We must never condone physician-assisted suicide any more than we condone abortion. While both involve the termination of human life, at two ends of the age spectrum, they are both morally wrong. We must support our loved ones who are labeled “terminally ill.” We must assure them that they are never a burden to us. The so-called “quality of life” argument is a moot point when we consider the redemptive value of vicarious suffering. We must keep our disabled or sick loved ones as comfortable as we can. Finally, we must remind them that every day spent in their presence, despite the pain of suffering, means extra time with them, time we can never get back after God calls them home.

Death with dignity does not accrue from narcotics. It comes from love and the knowledge that every human being is made in the image and likeness of God. This dignity is perpeutal despite whatever battles we wage on this side of heaven.

Father Comandini is managing editor of “The Catholic Spirit”

Following Christ is bound to make us uncomfortable feelings of being physically uncomfort- and imprisonment, war, deprivation of able are more minor inconveniences freedom and dignity, ignorance and illitthan serious problems. eracy, medical emergencies I forgot that lesson and shortage of work, Scripture was when the air-conditioner trafficking and slavery, in my car stopped working clear that Jesus exile, extreme poverty last fall. Navigating the and forced migration.”

By Mary Morrell was a master cooler weather was fine, For the rest of us, but with summer upon us, if we are lucky, our ocat making As a child I grew up in a house without I found myself whining casional discomforts lead air-conditioning, a small, three-bedroom every day: “I am so unpeople feel us to a state of spiritual ranch with few windows. Air-condition- comfortable!” bemoaning necessary uncomfortable, discomfort ing made my mom sick, so there was no the fact that I could not for our growth in faith. chance we would have one in the house. afford to fix the problem especially those Scripture was clear that One year my dad finally convinced her or buy another car.

Jesus was a master at who needed a to let him put a window unit in the gaIn those times of making people feel unrage, which, in the warm weather, be- feeling sorry for myself, comfortable, especially radical change came our summer room. When my mom I felt my conscience bethose who needed a radiof heart and said, “Yes,” my dad and I could barely ing challenged by the cal change of heart and contain our excitement. reality of so many people mind. mind.

The comfortable, cool times lasted who live every day with Years ago, one of about a month before my mom came a level of discomfort that my adult students reminded down with bronchitis. So, we went back I will likely never experience, those me that in life, as in faith, there is nothto wet towels around our necks and cold whom Pope Francis has described as ing more dangerous to our development drinks on the shaded patio, aware that “faces marked by suffering, marginal- than being comfortable. comfort is relative, and many times our ization, oppression, violence, torture A small group of my students had gathered to discuss conversion and view the movie, “Romero,” the powerful story of Archbishop Oscar Arnulfo Romero of El Salvador and his commitIf you were sexually abused by a member of the clergy or anyone representing ment to social justice and the poor. It is a disturbing movie, not only because the Catholic Church, or you know of someone who was, you are encouraged of the violence, which was an historical to report that abuse to law enforcement and/or by contacting the Diocesan reality, but because it challenges us as Response Officer at (908) 930-4558 (24 hours/7 days a week).

Christians to a moral vision that moves us from complacency and calls us, as For more information on how to report abuse, visit our diocesan Church, to live what Jesus lived and preached through a preferential option website: https://diometuchen.org/report-a-suspected-abuse.

AUGUST 8, 2019

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Things My Father Taught Me

How to report abuse

for the poor.

A timid, orthodox, predictable bookworm, Bishop Romero was elected as archbishop by conservative bishops who believed he would not make waves in a land ravished by conflict in the struggle for land reform. Just one month later, following the brutal death of his friend, Father Rutilio Grande, along with two parishioners, Archbishop Romero experienced a turning point that would stir up its own storm leading to his assassination on the altar three years later as he raised the consecrated host and prayed.

Soon after Father Grande’s death, the archbishop would say, prophetically, “We must learn this invitation of Christ: ‘Those who wish to come after me must renounce themselves.’ Let them renounce themselves, renounce their comforts, renounce their personal opinions, and follow only the mind of Christ, which can lead us to death but will surely also lead us to resurrection.”

When the movie was over, I found one of my students sitting in silence, tears streaming down her face. I sat down next to her and asked if she was okay. She took my hand and said, “I hate when you do that. I was comfortable with the way I lived my faith. Now I’m not.”

The cost of discipleship.

Mary Morrell is the author of “Let Go and Live,” and “Things My Father Taught Me About Love,” both available as ebooks on Amazon.

5

Compiled from the Catholic News Service

Effort to canonize Irish-born priest advances

Speaker: Church needs Catholic education ‘right now’

OMAHA, Neb. — The sainthood cause of Father Edward J. Flanagan took a step forward July 22 with the presentation of the “positio” to the Vatican Congregation for Saints’ Causes, along with a letter of support from Omaha Archbishop George J. Lucas. The “positio,” or official position paper, is a summary of the volumes of records that were sent to the Vatican by the Archdiocese of Omaha in 2015 and makes the argument that Father Flanagan demonstrated heroic virtue in his life, and thus worthy of being declared venerable by the pope.

Archbishop Lucas met with Cardinal Giovanni Angelo Becciu, prefect of the congregation, to personally endorse this step toward the eventual beatification and canonization of Father Flanagan, the founder of Boys Town. “It has been a privilege to offer my support for the cause of Father Edward Flanagan at each stage of this process,” Archbishop Lucas said in a statement. “I was able to share with Cardinal Becciu the encouragement offered to all of us in the Church during this challenging time by the virtuous life and work of Father Flanagan.” The Father Flanagan League Society of Devotion is what is officially known as the “actors” for Father Flanagan’s cause for canonization. The league has devotees of this cause in 20 countries and has over 40,000 worldwide followers on Facebook. “On behalf of the league, we thank Archbishop Lucas for making this personal com-

WASHINGTON — The keynote address at an annual conference for Catholic educators embracing classical Catholic education reinforced that what they are doing is important.

“If we don’t get Catholic education right, we don’t have a future,” Mary Rice Hasson, author and fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center in Washington, told about 200 participants at the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education’s national conference July 22 at The Catholic University of America. The July 22-25 conference, cohosted by theu university, offered keynote addresses, workshops on teaching methods and topics for superintendents, school leaders, teachers and pastors. The institute currently provides resources for more than 125 Catholic school members. Although Hasson didn’t speak directly to the type of education these educators have taken up, which emphasizes classical Greek and Roman sources along with the works of ancient fathers of the Church and theologians, she did address the overall goal of these schools, which is students’ spiritual formation. She also stressed the urgent need for spiritually-rooted Catholic education to combat what she described as the growing influence of secular culture in today’s public or government schools. Essentially speaking to the choir, Hasson said: “Catholic education is the single most important

Father Edward Flanagan, the Irish-born priest who founded Boys Town in Nebraska, talks with a group of boys in this undated photo. The effort to have Father Flanagan canonized took a step forward July 22, 2019, with the presentation of the “positio” to the Vatican Congregation for Saints’ Causes, along with a letter of support from Archbishop George J. Lucas of Omaha, Neb. — CNS photo/courtesy Boys Town

mitment to launch the review of the ‘positio,’” said Steven Wolf, president of the Father Flanagan League. When the Irishborn priest’s cause was officially opened in 2011, he was given the title of “servant of God.” The next step was the collection of documents about his life and ministry and the gathering of testimony gathered from dozens of witnesses who knew of his ministry. There are three more phases to pass through before Father Flanagan can be declared “venerable.”

New prelate to focus on faith, poverty, opioid crisis

Pope Francis has appointed Auxiliary Bishop Mark E. Brennan of Baltimore to head the Diocese of Wheeling-Charleston, W.Va. Bishop Brennan is pictured in his undated official portrait.

—CNS photo/Archdiocese of Baltimore

face. I will depend on those who are working to alleviate their suffering and to determine how we can increase the church’s outreach and impact — particularly for those who have fallen victim to opioid addiction,” the bishop said.

Mary Rice Hasson, author and fellow at the Ethics and Public Policy Center, Washington, D.C., is shown in an undated photo. Hasson told about 200 participants at the Institute for Catholic Liberal Education’s national conference July 22, 2019, at The Catholic University of America, Washington: “If we don’t get Catholic education right, we don’t have a future.”

—CNS photo/James O’Gara, courtesy Ethics and Public Policy Center

thing our Church needs right now.” Citing statistics about young people leaving the Church, she said these numbers point to “a long failure to impart the faith to the next generation,” which she stressed makes the “task before us all the more important.”

British Open champion was former altar server CLARA, Ireland — After Massgoers’ prayers for golfer Shane Lowry were answered, there was “tremendous excitement” in his rural parish, said Father Joe Deegan, the local priest. Lowry returned home to the small parish in Ireland’s Midlands region and received a hero’s welcome July 23 after winning the British Open golf tournament two days earlier.

During the competition, many people were struck by the image of Lowry’s mother, Bridget, clutching a statue of St. Anthony at the course in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

Father Deegan, priest at St. Brigid’s Catholic Church in Clara, described Bridget Lowry as a “very active parishioner” and a woman of “great faith.” “She has a very strong devotion to St. Anthony,” he said.

As a youth, Shane Lowry was an altar server at the parish. During Masses July 20 and 21, parishioners prayed for his success.

“We ... included him in our prayers of intercession; there was great anticipation. The whole place, you can feel a buzz around the town,” Father Deegan said. He said he prayed that “the Lord’s peace would be upon him in his endeavors, like all people involved in sport, that they would know something of God’s glory and goodness in their lives.” Lowry began playing golf at age 12 but was also involved in the local Gaelic Athletic Association club; however, golf won out over Gaelic football. “As a parish, as a community, we feel very proud

Irish golfer Shane Lowry, right, celebrates with his parents, Brendan and Bridget, after winning the British Open July 21, in Portrush, Northern Ireland.

The 32-year-old Irishman held on to win by six strokes and his first major. His mother carried an icon of St. Anthony throughout the entire tournament.

—CNS photo/Jason Cairnduff, Reuters

of Shane as a native, and his family, I mean they’re lovely people, good solid earthly people, and it’s great for Clara. It’s a small town, it’s not on any major tourist map or anything like that, but it may change now,” said Father Deegan. “There’s a great feeling of pride and elation ... it’s given a great boost to the community,” Father Deegan told “The Irish Catholic.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT AUGUST 8, 2019

BALTIMORE — Bishop Mark E. Brennan, named by Pope Francis July 23 as the ninth bishop of the Diocese of WheelingCharleston, W.Va., acknowledged that he will face difficulties in his new post.

The diocese encompasses the whole state of West Virginia, home to some of the poorest people in the country and an epicenter for the opioid crisis.

Bishop Brennan, currently an auxiliary bishop of Baltimore, also follows Bishop Michael J. Bransfield, who resigned in September 2018 amid allegations of sexual harassment and financial malfeasance.

“I am very eager to get to the diocese and to get to know the people and places that make West Virginia such a special place.

As my parents retired in West Virginia many years ago, it’s a place that I admire for its beauty and the kindness of its people,” he told the “Catholic Review” magazine of the Archdiocese of Baltimore.

“Although there is great need across the state, there are also tremendous assets. It will be my priority to harness the resources of the diocese to serve the considerable needs while also bringing about a new era of renewal of our faith.

“A primary focus will be on the poverty that those in the rural areas of the state

WORLD & NATION

WORLD & NATION

Little did Cristina D’Averso-Collins realize last October when she was one of the keynote speakers at the diocese’s Critical Life Issues conference that she would return on July 1 as director of the Office of Family Life. At the conference D’Averso-Collins spoke about the “Beauty and Wisdom of God’s Design for Marriage – A Millennial’s Perspective.” “Her presentation was thought-provoking and was very well received,” stated Jennifer Ruggiero who heads the diocese’s Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life. She added that several months later, when the director position became vacant, Cristina came to mind immediately as a possible candidate and was ultimately chosen to lead the office.

“Cristina comes to us with a passion for marriage and family life as well as an educational background in Spanish, Theology and Psychology. Her campus ministry experience also has given her the opportunity to work closely with young adults. This well-rounded background will serve as an asset as we work to collaborate more as a Secretariat in our mission to evangelize and form missionary disciples,” Ruggiero stated.

After graduating from St. Jerome ElBE LOUD WITHOUT LIMITS ementary School in West Long Branch and Red Bank Catholic High School, D’AversoCollins entered Villanova University where she earned a bachelor’s degree in Humanities and Spanish. “In college I had some wonderful professors in Humanities. We studied St. John Paul II’s Theology of the Body and a variety of Catholic and classical philosophy,” she said.

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Noting that the topics of marriage learned about Divine Mercy that in 2014 and family always peaked her interest,” she enrolled in its online program which and she wanted to help people as much as had just been established when she started. possible particularly because there was so Recalling her decision to pursue anmuch divorce, in college, D’Averso-Col- other master’s, she said, “Since I always lins thought she would like to do marriage wanted a degree in psychology, the procounseling. She decided to pursue that gram at Divine Mercy was a perfect fit. goal when one of her Villanova profesIt was specifically sors told her about designed for people, The Pontifical John like me, who were 'I am so excited to Paul II Institute for working in pastoral begin this new journey.

Studies on Marriage ministry.” She was, and Family where his at the time, working By the grace of the father was a dean. at the John Paul II Holy Spirit, I hope to The Institute is Institute. located on the camD ’ Av e r s o assist the Diocese of pus of The Catholic Collins received her University of AmerMetuchen in bringing masters in General ica in Washington, Psychology from Dithe good news about D.C. She said, she vine Mercy Institute thought, “this would in 2016. She said that God’s plan for family be perfect, and enalthough the program life to all, particularly rolled in its Master was non-clinical, she of Theological Studcame to realize that a younger generation, ies program. In 2013, she preferred pastoral she received her which desperately ministry to being a degree in marriage clinician. seeks meaning and and family and for It was in 2014, the next two years too, that D’Aversoauthenticity.' worked at the InstiCollins reached out tute. She helped the to the Diocese of heads of Institute’s Trenton inquiring if they had any opporPhD and doctoral programs and assisted tunities where she could work in the area a few of the professors. of marriage or marriage prep. Her inquiry Front While a student at the John Paul II resulted in her becoming a member of the Institute, D’Averso-Collins attended a diocese’s Marriage Study Commission. class taught by a professor from theFront Di- In 2014, the Commission developed the vine Mercy University in Arlington, Vir- diocese’s Plan for Strengthening Marriage. ginia. She was so Front impressed by what she Approved by Bishop David O’Connell, the

SAVE THE DATE

S

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6 OUR DIOCESE

New Family Life director spoke at diocese's Critical Life Issues Conference

SAVE DATE presentsTHE a benefit concert

THE FOUNDATION OF MORRIS OCTOBER HALL / ST. LAWRENCE, SATURDAY, 5, 2019INC. • 7:30PM THE FOUNDATION OF MORRIS HALL / ST. LAWRENCE, INC.

presents a benefit concert

TBD St Law

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2019 • 7:30PM THE FOUNDATION OF MORRIS HALL / ST. LAWRENCE, INC.

DATE February11,201911:08AM

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AUGUST 8, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

11:08 ibleAM

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presents a benefit concert

It is very important that you review this proof’s content for accuracy.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2019 Please Note: This PDF is 7:30 P.M. proof quality and may We are not responsible for any errors after proof approval.

not be suitable for print reproduction.

PATRIOTS THEATER NOTES at the

Dotted outline TRENTON indicates the edge andWAR will not print.

MEMORIAL

The Philly POPS® with Conductor Todd Ellison, are pleased to present “Motown’s Greatest Hits” with vocal quartet Spectrum!

GENERAL ADMISSION: TICKET PRICES RANGE $35-$90 Call 215-893-1999 or visit www.ticketphiladelphia.org to purchase.

For information about patron tickets or sponsorships, please contact Jane Millner at 609-896-9500, ext 2215 or jmillner@slrc.org.

The concert will benefit the patients and residents of St. Lawrence Rehabilitation Center and Morris Hall.

Cristina D'Averso-Collins, the new director of the Office of Family Life, was a member of the Diocese of Trenton's Marriage Study Commission. plan, as described on the diocese’s website, “offers diocesan-wide objectives and particular strategies for the diocese and for parishes.

“Building Strong Marriages requires a bold new perspective in the way we minister to married couples and families in our parishes. The marital relationship needs to be strengthened and sustained every day, in every situation and every stage of married life. The parish thus becomes the community of support for all Catholic families.”

During the year-long project, D’Averso-Collins was told Monmouth University had a position open for a Campus Minister. She returned to New Jersey, where she resides in Ocean and joined the staff of Monmouth. Among her responsibilities was leading the marriage readiness program for students. She shared what she learned in that position at the Metuchen Diocese’s Critical Life Issues conference.

Three months before joining the Metuchen Diocese, D’Averso-Collins and her husband, Brian, welcomed their first child. It’s not surprising that the baby girl is named Gianna after St. Gianna Beretta Molla, the first canonized woman who was a 'working mom.'

Reflecting on her new position as director, diocesan Office of Family Life, D’Averso-Collins said: “I am so excited to begin this new journey. By the grace of the Holy Spirit, I hope to assist the Diocese of Metuchen in bringing the good news about God’s plan for family life to all, particularly a younger generation, which desperately seeks meaning and authenticity. Far from being outmoded, the teachings of Christ in His Church are able to bring renewed hope and to foster a vibrant community within our diocese and the wider culture.”

— Joanne Ward

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7 OUR DIOCESE

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8 OUR DIOCESE

Love for scouting reflected in the awards received at special Mass ent that evening, and recognized the In his homily, Father Barbella reflected accomplishments of his predecessor, upon the day’s Old Testament reading Msgr. Michael J. Corona, with the of Abraham striving to keep the peace Catholic Scouting St. Anne Medal and between his herdsmen and those of his a wooden plaque for his years of serbrother-in-law, Lot (Gen. 13:2, 5-18). vice. Msgr. Corona, who also serves He reminded the youth that going to as pastor of St. Luke Parish, North heaven at life’s end requires effort on Plainfield, had joined the scouting their part, as do completing the re- program as a nine-year-old Cub Scout quirements for their scouting badges more than six decades ago, risen to the and medals. ranks of Eagle Scout, “We live in a world and served the Diocese where so many people of Metuchen Catholic are more concerned 'We should make Scouting program for about what others will many years. every effort do for them, about what Youth and adults they are owed or how alike realized the medwe can to live others treat them,” he als stood for accomour faith fully, said. “As I read this plishments of action and story [about Abraham], faith. to learn it I could not help thinkGregory Berquist ing of the Scout law and of St. James Parish, more oath: how it commits Woodbridge, expressed completely, you to being kind, helpjoy with the Ad Altare ful, caring, trustworthy as many of you Dei (To the Altar of God) and friendly, to get award he had earned. He have done along with others. It’s noted, “I liked to learn not always easy, but as about scouting. My faby earning any scout who takes that vorite activities are takoath seriously knows, it ing camping trips where your religious certainly is worth it.”

I can fish and hike and medals" The Scouting awards, take pictures.” which signified the many Annalis and Danny —Father John J. hours of study, service and Marmol of St. Matthew Barbella education the boys and Parish, Edison, beamed girls had undergone, were broadly as they examblessed and distributed to ined the award their son, the youth. As moderators announced their Cyrus, had received that evening. names, they left their pews to receive the “He liked to decipher codes and tokens, then returned to their pews and in learn about the Sacraments,” Annalis excited whispers compared their medals said. Her husband, reflecting upon the and ribbons with their friends. difference Catholic scouting had made Father Barbella extended greet- in Cyrus, added, “It is part of our faith. ings to the scouts from Bishop James It’s more than just getting medals: it’s F. Checchio, who could not be pres- learning things like stewardship.”

Continued from page 1

AUGUST 8, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Boy Scout Awards AD ALTARE DEI Ad Altare Dei is Latin for “to the altar of God” and this program, based on the seven sacraments, helps Catholic youth of the Roman Rite to develop a fully Christian way of life in their faith community. The most important aims of the program are that the scout will grow in his spiritual experience and in his relationship with God and the Church.

St. Mary, Alpha Michael Iorio, Vincent Lamberti, Zachary Sumner St. John Vianney, Colonia Daniel McNamara St. Helena, Edison Neil Correa, Vian Miranda St. Matthew the Apostle, Edison Cyrus Marmol, Brandon Perez, Kyle Roben Our Lady of Peace, Fords Joshua Cruz, Colin Hinkle Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen

Matthew Huffman, Michael McNamara, Connor Spinelli St. Ambrose, Old Bridge Sean Bannon, Antonio DeGiovanni, Kevin Gallagher, Michael Gallagher, Zach Medalle, Jovin Percoco, Thomas Ramsden St. Clement, Old Bridge Christoper Palmiero St. Thomas the Apostle, Old Bridge Daniel Maichin, Bradford Wallace St. Philip and St. James, Phillipsburg Kiernan Lopez, Logan Shoudt St. James, Woodbridge Gregory Berquist, Paul Berquist, Thomas Wondzynski-Ruffo POPE PIUS XII The Pope Pius XII award examines churchrelated ministries and vocations, among these life choices are the single, married, religious or ordained states. These ordained and lay ministries in the church are calls from God. Activities

Pictured above are the 44 scouts who received awards at the annual Catholic Scouting Mass held in the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, June 25. At right is the plaque presented to Msgr. Michael J. Corona for his years of service to scouting. He was also given the Catholic Scouting St. Anne Medal.

— John Batkowski photos

Love for scouting had endured through three generations of females in one family. Doreen Sekora, a parishioner in St. Bernard of Clairvaux, Bridgewater, and co-chairperson of the diocesan Catholic Committee of Scouting for Girls, carefully read the names of the award-winning scouts who stepped forward to receive recognition as her daughter, Michelle, looked on with pride.

“She had been involved with Scouting since 1975 when I was three years old,” Michelle said, recalling the trips they had taken over the many include youth-led discussions on current issues facing the church and society.

St. Bartholomew, East Brunswick Raymond Zebrowski Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen Matthew Bianchini, Joshua Puerzer, Keith Nieve St. Patrick, Belevidere and St. Rose of Lima, Oxford Alexander Ward

Girl Scout Awards

I LIVE MY FAITH The I Live My Faith program is the official religious recognition program in the Diocese of Metuchen for Catholic Girl Scouts on the Junior level. The program is action-oriented, and accompanied by reflection and sharing with parents, advisors and peers.

St. Bernard of Clairvaux, Bridgewater Amethyst (Amy) Bolink

decades in Catholic scouting. “The religious medals are special. The girls become involved in ministry and do service-related activities to change the community and learn social justice,” she continued as she drew her daughter, Madeline Rogala of Immaculate Conception Parish, Spotswood, closer to examine her “I Live My Faith” medal.

MARY THE FIRST DISCIPLE The Marian Medal program, serves as a reminder of our learned experience and a symbol of commitment to faith, service, and responsible community participation for Girl Scouts on the Cadette level.

St. John the Evangelist, Dunellen Maria Stein Our Lady of Victories, Sayreville Ava Boyce, Alyssa Downey Sacred Heart, South Amboy Alanna Knoell, Skylar Pabon, Ella Sanchez, Christa Suchcicki Church of the Sacred Heart, South Plainfield Lauren Co Immaculate Conception, Spotswood Madeline Rogala

But the chapel designers didn’t full-time volunteer greeters and self- want a darkened interior characteristic described docents at the chapel. of stained glass, so they chose goldRichard was busy welcoming colored glass windows that bathe the Massgoers along with the just plain interior with shifting hues of diffused curious, as well as the tour bus crowds sunlight throughout the day. coming up to the mounThe chapel stones tains from Denver and used to create the buildstopping for a photo of the ing were the remnants of chapel. Though Mass is 6 feet of rock originally “...we want only offered regularly on blasted off the top of a Wednesdays, the chapel is large rocky outcrop; Italto resurrect now open year-round. ian-American craftsmen the old cabin A motorcycle-riding from Denver were among couple from Wisconsin those who offered to help creek trail, stopped to look around build the chapel. and Richard recounted for Visitors are invited which is what them a story of how, a year to climb up to the secPope John ago, the priest in charge ond-story loft and ring blessed the motorcycles the 1,000-pound church Paul II hiked for a large group of bikers bell, and to hike up the on....” as they passed through. adjacent hill to the statue “My wife and I are of Christ, which was in—Jim Richard friends with a parish priest stalled in 1948 as a mein Denver who recommorial following World mended us to be docents War II. six days a week. We like After the Mass, it, and we love what is going on here,” Richard, his cowboy hat in hand, walked Richard said, pointing out some of the around the wooded property and pointed unique features of the chapel, including out some of the challenges of restoring a single stained-glass window situated the hiking trails following the damaging in the rear near the entrance. floods and mudslides.

“It was made in 1936 in Munich, There were hopes for creating Germany, by the Franz Mayer company more guest parking spaces, but the land and they are still in business,” he said. is still slightly unstable and a decision

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OUR DIOCESE

Continued from page 3

9

Retreat center enjoyed by late pontiff undergoes transformation

Visitors attend Mass in the Chapel on the Rock, formally named St. Catherine of Siena Chapel in Allenspark, Colo., near Estes Park. The chapel is on the grounds of the Camp St. Malo Retreat Center, which was made famous during St. John Paul II’s epic World Youth Day visit to Denver in 1993.

— CNS photo/Tom Tracy

was taken to defer that for now, he pointed out.

“We are trying to be good land stewards,” Richard said, pointing to an area of property that was reshaped by the surging flood and debris. “But we want to resurrect the old cabin creek trail, which is what Pope John Paul II hiked on, and we want to rebuild the rosary trail and add a stations of the

cross.”

It isn’t yet clear when those projects will be completed, but there is a possibility that the St. John Paul II Memorial Hiking Trail may be ready for public use by the end of the year, Richard noted.

Tracy is a freelancer writer and photographer based in Florida; he reported on the Denver World Youth Day 1993.

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Chorale dedicated to serving poor to hold auditions, weekly rehearsals Caritas Chamber Chorale (www.CaritasChamberChorale.org) invites those who wish to share their voices and embrace its mission to audition for its 2019-2020 season.

Auditions will be held by appointment in August. All voice parts are welcome, however, tenors are particularly encouraged to audition. The 2019-2020 season begins with weekly rehearsals starting after Labor Day in the Warren/Bridgewater area.

Caritas Chamber Chorale is an ensemble of 20-plus singers striving for musical, artistic and spiritual beauty, firmly rooted in our shared humanity. The Chorale is dedicated to serving the poorest of the poor through the art of sacred music and addresses its mission by presenting concerts of sacred music throughout central New Jersey and beyond for the benefit of the Adorno Fathers’ St. Francis Caracciolo Mission and their Gianni Diurni Primary School in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa.

Directed by founder Barbara Sanderman, the Chorale also works with assistant conductor and composer in residence, Wayne Dietterick, and has premiered many of his works, some written especially for Caritas. Caritas typically works in two- to three-month

The Caritas Chamber Chorale serves the poor through the art of sacred music and addresses its mission by presenting concerts throughout central New Jersey and beyond for the benefit of the Adorno Fathers’ St. Francis Caracciolo Mission and their Gianni Diurni Primary School in Goma, Democratic Republic of Congo, Africa.

— photo courtesy of Caritas Chamber Chorale

concert sessions with breaks between the sessions.

As opportunities arise and circumstances permit, Caritas Chamber Chorale participates in workshops and events with experts in choral music, collaborates with other choral groups, travels and performs concert tours, records, and participates in local outreach and other activities.

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ANNANDALE - As part of this year’s spiritual preparation for the consecration of the Diocese of Metuchen to Our Lady of Guadalupe on December 12, the faithful, especially families and young people, are invited to participate in “The Way of St. Juan Diego.”

The nine-mile walking pilgrimage on September 21 will begin at 10 a.m. at Immaculate Conception Parish.

A pilgrimage is a sacred journey that is undertaken to draw closer to God. Seen as a sacrificial expedition of faith, pilgrims set out on their trek for several reasons: to do penance for sins, to ask for some special grace for oneself or another or to give thanks to God for graces received.

In calling the faithful to make a pilgrimage as part of the diocese’s year of spiritual renewal, Bishop James F. Checchio has done so to ask for the grace of a ‘New Evangelization.’

Recognizing that the overwhelming majority of the baptized are no longer living vibrant faith lives, the bishop is encouraging all of us to invoke the Blessed Mother’s intervention for a new outpouring of the Gifts of the Holy Spirit as on the day of Pentecost, so we can be empowered to “set a fire in the heart of our world.”

Since Our Lady of Guadalupe has been honored with the titles, ‘The Star of the New Evangelization’ and ‘The Patroness of the Americas,’ she

is a most powerful intercessor for us. that had not occurred before nor since.

In addition, St. Juan Diego, her chosen Will you accept Bishop Checmessenger, is integral to the renewal chio’s invitation and become a Juan of our diocese as he models a zealous, Diego? He recognizes that spiritual lay missionary disciple. renewal among the baptized is crucial An indigenous convert to Chris- for a ‘New Evangelization” to comtianity 500 years ago, at the inception mence in the diocese. Our nine-mile of the evangelization of walk will help prepare us the ‘New World’ (presto become lay missionary ent day Mexico), St. Juan St. Juan Diego disciples.

Diego was privileged to The pilgrimage will be visited by The Blessed conclude at Immaculate is integral to Mother on several occaConception Parish, with the renewal sions. She tasked him with a Mass celebrated by a message for the bishop: of our diocese Bishop Checchio. “tell him that I want him Registration for the as he models pilgrimage is $20 per to build my sacred little house on this hill so that person (one registration a zealous, lay I may reveal my Son.” In form per person) before obedience to her, he jourAug. 30; $25 after Aug. missionary neyed the nine miles on 30. Lunch and dinner is disciple. foot to the bishop’s house included. The deadline multiple times, where he for registration is Sept. was met with less than 13. open arms and credibility.

Checks should be On his final visit he came with the made payable to The Diocese of ‘sign’ the bishop had asked for, as well Metuchen and mailed to: The Dioas one he had not – the miraculous im- cese of Metuchen, Office of Evangeprint of the Ever Virgin Mother of God lization, PO Box 191, Metuchen, NJ on his cloak (commonly known as the 08840 tilma). The result of this miracle was Online registration, mail-in registhat nine million indigenous Mexicans tration forms in English and Spanish, were baptized within eight years and and parental release forms in English the evangelization of our continent and Spanish may be found at www. exploded. St. Juan Diego’s acceptance of the mission he was given brought faith in Mary’s Son, Jesus Christ, the One True God, to the masses in a way

Lord Jesus Christ, you told the apostles to retire to a desert place and rest a while. I am taking this time to follow your example. Grant that I may obtain all the fruits that I can from this retreat. Enable me to make it in union with you, to know myself better and to get closer to you. Help me to listen attentively, to ponder prayerfully, and to speak wisely. Let me emerge from this spiritual renewal as a more committed Christian, better equipped to advance along the path that you have laid out for me. Amen.

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Loyola2019 provides- Co-Ed the 13-15, Weekend Write yourRetreat own journey of faith time to relax and a place to reflect and pray, to reawaken St. Therese of Lisieux and St. Ignatius Loyola inyour Conversation as part of prayer experience the reality of God and to grow in the precious gift of Prayer in the Challenges of Daily Living faith so you can return with a refreshed and energized SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 27 Led byto Robert approach your life. Guigliano, Ph.D. and Rick D’Aversa 2-7 pm Adults (Ages 18-39) September 30, 2019 -28th Annual Loyola Jesuit Young Center GOLF OUTING

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Retreats • Spiritual Direction Days & Evenings of Recollection Programs for Holistic Growth

FALL RETREATS

By Jodie D’Angiolillo

11

Faithful invited to journey in the footsteps of St. Juan Diego

to 16 years of age and my two assistants.

Monday’s theme was “Jesus the From June 30 to July 6, I participated in Teacher” and during Eucharist and the my first “Vacation with the Lord God” catechesis we discussed the topic. We organized by Redemptorist Father Walde- spent an active afternoon swimming and mar Latkowski, pastor of St. John Paul II playing by the lake. After dinner we sat by Parish in Perth Amboy, and Kasia Pawka, the camp fire and ate the traditional Polish principal of Polish Supplementary School sausages and American “s’mores,” played games and sports activities, and danced in Lakewood.

The event was held amidst the stun- along to beautiful Polish music.

Tuesday was a day with “Jesus the ning scenery of the YMCA resort in Silver Healer.” We were pleased Bay, N.Y. Everything that by the presence of Saleyoung people need for a sian Father Paul Dziatgood rest is there: a lake, It was strenuous kiewicz, who shared his mountains and sports and responsible missionary experience, fields. This was no ordiKamila and Ula, nary vacation. work, but the smiles and former participants who Each year, the organizers introduce a difon the faces of the prepared trivia games for the older groups, and ferent topic to deepen participants was created different projects the relationship with the Lord God. worth it. I trust that for younger children. We spent the afternoon on a The 13th “Vacation the seed of the mountain expedition hikwith the Lord God’s” the nearby trail and motto was: “The Lord word of God plant- ing taking advantage of the Jesus God and the Man.” beautiful weather and the For some particied in the hearts of undisputed youthful enpants it was a shocking these young people ergy, and in the evening surprise to leave phones, games and TV behind. will give fruit in the we passed the time with sport activities outdoors.

The “Vacation with the near future.

Wednesday was a day for Lord God” began with the “Jesus the Prophet,” at Eucharist, followed by an —Sister Anna Lic the end of which a service organizational meeting was held during which in which the 120 participants were acquainted with their caregiv- the participants made their declaration ers, chaperones, and other members of for Christ.

On Thursday, we discussed the the group. At this meeting, the backpacks with catechesis materials, T-shirts and theme of “Jesus our Friend,” and we also identification were distributed to all the celebrated Independence Day by participarticipants. That day, a Sunday, I had my pating in the parade.

At the evening talent show young first opportunity to get acquainted with my group of 19 members ranging from 14 participants presented: a poem in French,

By Sister Anna Lic

12 AUGUST 8, 2019

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

FALL RETREATS

Religious reflects on planting seeds of faith at ‘Vacation with the Lord God’

Above, attendees of the “Vacation with the Lord God” participate in a faith-building activity.

Right, attendees and adult chaperones pray at Mass. The motto for this year’s event was “The Lord Jesus God and the Man.” Attendees left phones, games and television at home to help deepen their relationship with the Lord.

— photos courtesy of St. John Paul II Parish

Attendees and chaperones at the 13th “Vacation with the Lord God” pose at the YMCA in Silver Bay. N.Y. Activities included group discussions about Jesus as a teacher and healer, hiking, sports, a talent show, and dancing to Polish music. a game of Viola, piano and guitar, dancing with a stick, breakdance and samba.

Participants also sang and worked on art projects.

Friday was a day devoted to “Jesus the Savior.” Participants during the catechetical meeting wrote a letter of gratitude to their parents for the opportunity to participate in this year’s “Vacation with the Lord God.” At evening gathering, the participants received various gifts and souvenirs. Saturday was the day of departure, and now everyone will have to wait another fifty-one weeks for the next “Vacation with the Lord God.” In this short glimpse, I have tried to show the uniqueness of the “Vacation with the Lord God.” During catechesis, I noticed the great need to teach young people about the Lord God. I am glad that

I could be part of a group of chaperones.

It was strenuous and responsible work, but the smiles on the faces of the participants was worth it. I trust that the seed of the word of God planted in the hearts of these young people will give fruit in the near future.

The Little Servant Sisters and the Redemptorist Fathers organize a weekend retreat in Polish for youth (16 and over) twice a year, usually in April and October at the Provincial House of LSIC in Cherry Hill. Each month, the Sisters organize a Catholic formation meeting youth and their parents in Woodbridge.

For more information, visit www.lsic.us Sister Anna Lic is a member of the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception and served as a chaperone at the event

13

3258 River Road, Piffard, New York 14533

ESCAPE THE CHAOS Retreatants are welcome all year round at our abbey retreat houses to enjoy some private time in peace and solitude. Although we are Catholic monks, we welcome men and women of all denominations who want to rest awhile with the Lord. We provide three houses where quiet, monastic-style retreats can be made by individuals or groups.

FALL RETREATS

Cistercian Monks Seeking God and Following Christ

Day of Reflection

Al Galdi speaks at the podium during the South Amboy Knights of Columbus’ first Men’s Day of Reflection June 29 at St. Mary Parish, South Amboy. The retreat was facilitated by Father Sean W. Kenney, OFS, pastor, Our Lady of the Mount Parish, Warren, and the Men’s Cornerstone Ministry at Our Lady of the Mount.

Twenty-five men attended Mass and the retreat that followed in the parish hall.

— John Kobiernicki photo

for more information visit: www.abbeyretreats.org

2018 LUMEN FOR METUCHEN_Layout 1 1/25/18 12:18 PM Page 1

www.lumenctr.org

AUGUST 8, 2019

See our web site for further 1 Ryerson Avenue, Caldwell, New Jersey details on the wide range 973.403.3331 Ext. 25 of programs offered lumencenter@caldwellop.org

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Join us for Days of Reflection on l prayer l scripture Italy -Including Vatican City, l global issues Assisi and Frascati l stewardship

SISTERS OF SAINT DOMINIC

THE LUMEN CENTER

14

The sound of silence: a directed retreat experience

FALL RETREATS

By Father Glenn J. Comandini

of Metuchen

In 1980, I made my first retreat at Loyola House in Morristown. This period of recollection was entitled a “silent directed retreat” because the entire experience was to take place in a setting of silence, with periodic conferences with a retreat director. I decided on Loyola House because discerning a vocation to the priesthood, in my mind, required silence. I needed to remove all the distractions of daily life that could prevent me from hearing God’s “voice,” such as radio, TV and phones.

What complicated my discernment was my being torn between entering the Jesuits or becoming a diocesan priest. I was attracted to the Society of Jesus since their principal apostolate was education and, up until this point, I had been a high school teacher of Span-

ish and French. At the same time, what drew me toward the secular or diocesan priesthood was the multifaceted ministry with families.

When I arrived at the retreat center, I met Jesuit Father Bill Porter who was to be my retreat director. I will never forget how, on my first visit with Father Porter, I started rattling off a battery of questions about the direction I should take with the quest of discernment.

Instead of answering these questions, he told me to go read a prescribed passage of Scripture and meditate on these verses that had as their theme complete dependence on Divine Providence.

“Consider the ravens: they do not sow, they do not reap, they neither cellar nor barn—yet God feeds them. How much more important you are than the birds...” (Lk. 12:24) Excited about excavating God’s

For information about the Year of Spiritual Renewal and consecration to Our Lady of Guadalupe go to: LightingHeartsOnFire.org

voice from this Scripture passage, I re- of New Mexico, Father Porter recomturned to my room. I felt awkward there mended that I accept this position. He because it was the first time in my life pointed out that the two years required that I occupied a space without radio, by the school for this Master’s Degree TV or phone. I did have could be an excellent a bed, chest of drawers, time to discern God’s a Bible, a journal and a will for me.

Indeed the pen! After reading the When I arrived in sound of silence Albuquerque, I rented an assigned Scripture, I decided to meditate on was deafening apartment, attended daily the beautiful grounds Mass and started to pray at first. As the of the retreat center. I the breviary or Liturgy of would pass people who the Hours on my own. I days passed, became involved with also were on retreat; still, on a silent retreat, a Hispanic parish in the I came to listening is “modus openorth valley of the city. embrace the randi” to communing The pastor there became with God, not even at my mentor and spirisilence as the meals! Indeed, the sound tual director. As a secular conduit through priest who had a Ph.D. in of silence was deafening at first. As the days philosophy and psycholwhich God passed, I came to emogy, who taught in the brace the silence as the communicated seminary in Santa Fe as conduit through which well as a university in his will for me.

God communicated his Las Vegas, New Mexico, will for me. Little by his life brought home little, day by day, Father a truth that I had not Porter worked with me and continued considered. I did not have to become to assign passages of Scripture, which a Jesuit to teach in academia. There I was to read prayerfully. Eventually, I was enough flexibility in the diocesan came to understand through his acuity, priesthood to engage in family ministry patience and the sound of silence that a full time and teach part time.

I encourage those of you who have decision as large as the one facing me, could not be done in five days or, even never been on a silent directed retreat to 30 days (which Jesuits are required consider taking one. Who knows what to do at some point in their formation). God will tell you through the sound of Aware of the opportunity that I had silence?

Father Comandini is managing to be a teaching assistant while attending graduate school at the University editor of The Catholic Spirit

AUGUST 8, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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THE UPPER ROOM SPIRITUAL CENTER 3455 W. Bangs Ave., Building 2, Neptune, NJ 07753 Phone: 732-922-0550 • Fax: 732-922-3904 www.theupper-room.org · office@theupper-room.org VILLA PAULINE RETREAT AND SPIRITUAL CENTER 352 Bernardsville Road, Mendham, NJ 07945 Preached/Directed/Guided & Private Retreats, Spiritual Direction, day & weekend programs, Spiritual Direction Formation Program

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The center offers an atmosphere of silence, solitude and space for those seeking to develop and deepen their relationship with God, others and the world we live in. We have day and weekend programs throughout the year. Also available: Spiritual Direction, Spiritual Direction Formation Program, 19th Annotation of the Spiritual Exercises.

Please check out our website for more information.

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To join this retreat guide, call Nan at 732-765-6444

15

One-Day 9-mile Walking Pilgrimage “The Way of St. Juan Diego”

FALL RETREATS

COME JOIN THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN FOR A

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21, 2019 in preparation for the Consecration of the Diocese of Metuchen to Our Lady of Guadalupe.

All youth, families and people of faith are invited to participate.

Mass will be celebrated by Bishop James F. Checchio Cost:

$20 per person before Aug. 30 or $25 after Aug. 30.

Location:

Immaculate Conception Parish 316 Old Allerton Road • Annandale, NJ

Timeframe:

10 am to 8 pm

ine: l d a e D ion Registrtaetmber 13 d

de Sep er inclu shine. n in D & rain or Lunch e c la p ill take Walk w

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

it: rg/ s i v , er t s i To ReggHeartsOnFire.o ge ightin L . w lgrima i w P w g n i cese Walk o i D e h t t tac uchen.org on c s on i t For Queslization@diomet7932 -

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

OUR FAITH

16

Church teaching on first holy Communion Pope Francis

ANGELUS ADDRESS July 21, 2019

In this Sunday’s Gospel passage Luke the Evangelist narrates Jesus’ visit to the house of Martha and Mary, Lazarus’ sisters (cf. Lk 10:38-42). They receive him, and Mary sits at his feet to listen to him; she leaves what she was doing in order to be close to Jesus: she does not want to miss any of his words.

Everything is to be set aside when he comes to visit us in our lives; his presence and his words come before all else. The Lord always surprises us: when we truly focus on listening to him, clouds disappear, doubts give way to truth, fears to serenity, and life’s various situations find the right placement.

When the Lord comes, he always puts things in order, even us. In this scene of Mary of Bethany at Jesus’ feet, Saint Luke shows the prayerful attitude of the believer, who is able to be in the Teacher’s presence to listen to him and be in harmony with him.

It means pausing a few minutes during the day to gather yourself in silence, to make room for the Lord who ‘is passing’ and to find the courage to stay somewhat ‘on the sidelines’ with him, in order to return later with serenity and strength, to everyday matters. Commending the conduct of Mary, who “has chosen the good portion” (v. 42), Jesus seems to repeat to each of us: “Do not allow yourselves to be overwhelmed by things to do, but first and foremost listen to the Lord’s voice, in order to properly carry out the tasks that life assigns to you”. Then there is the other sister, Martha. Saint Luke says that it is she who receives Jesus (cf. v.

38). Perhaps Martha was the older of the two sisters; we do not know. But surely this woman had the charism of hospitality. Indeed, while Mary listened to Jesus, Martha is completely caught up in many services.

That is why Jesus says to her: “Martha, Martha, you are anxious and troubled about many things” (v. 41). With these words he certainly does not condemn the attitude of service, but rather the stress with which one lives at times. We too share Saint Martha’s worries and, after her example, we recommend ensuring — in our families and in our communities — that one may experience the sense of welcome, of fraternity, so that each one may feel ‘at home’, especially the little ones and the poor when they knock at our door. Thus, today’s Gospel passage reminds us that the wisdom of the heart lies precisely in knowing how to combine these two elements: contemplation and action. Martha and Mary indicate the path to us. May Mary Most Holy, Mother of the Church, give us the grace to love and serve God and brethren with the hands of Martha and the heart of Mary, so that, in always listening to Christ, we may be artisans of peace and hope.

I have two sons, ages 5 (entering kindergarten) and 7 (entering second grade), who attend Mass with me every week.

They both have strong faith, know their prayers and comprehend all of the re-

Q

Question Corner

By Father Kenneth Doyle ligious instruction they have received.

I teach Christian formation in my parish for my older son’s grade, and my younger son “audits”/sits in on that class. Instead of putting my younger son into the kindergarten religion class this coming year, I would like to enroll him in my second grade class and prepare him for first Communion, along with his brother.

I have read in our diocesan guidelines that, to receive first Communion, the child must be “of the age of reason (usually 7).” I can attest that my 5-year-old is fully capable of reasoning and that he comprehends the mysteries of Christ.

He has a thorough interest in re-

In the early centuries, the usual practice in the Latinrite (Roman) Catholic Church was for infants and children to receive first Communion immediately after baptism (usually by administering a drop of the precious blood). By the 13th century, though, it had become customary for children to receive first Eucharist when they reached the age of discretion (which was variously interpreted as being between 7 and 14).

In 1910 — in a change spearheaded by Pope Pius X — the Vatican Congregation for the sacraments established that the age of discretion should be considered around the age of 7, and that remains the current practice.

The Church’s “Code of Canon

Law” says simply that “the administration of the most holy Eucharist to children requires that they have sufficient knowledge and careful preparation so that they understand the mystery of Christ according to their capacity and are able to receive the body of Christ with faith and devotion” (Canon 913).

Interestingly, in 2010. Cardinal Antonio Canizares Llovera, head of the Vatican Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments, wrote an article in the Vatican newspaper “L’Osservatore Romano” in which he noted that children today are maturing more quickly and he suggested that the Church should consider lowering the age for first Communion.

In your own situation, you are certainly entitled to consult the bishop’s office in your diocese to see whether an exception can be made in your son’s case. I would think, though, that it might be practically difficult for every 5- or 6-year-old to be offered the opportunity to be evaluated as to his or her religious maturity and that the diocese may choose to retain the 7-yearold standard.

Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@ gmail.com and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, NY 12203.

describe any of them as “just anybody.”

But, then I wouldn’t use that expression to describe anyone who approaches the altar, takes the bread in hand, and consumes it, becoming one with Christ and his Church.

A study published recently by the Pew Research Center reported that only about half of Catholics questioned understood that the bread and wine of the Eucharist are not mere symbols but are, in fact, the body and blood of Jesus.

I do worry – I’m sure I’ve mentioned it here – that some Catholics have lost the sense of awe that the Eucharist should inspire. After all, I grew up in an era when we knelt to receive Communion – an era when a man walking past a church on a city street would lift his hat (men wore hats then) as he passed the front door, because he knew that he was passing the tabernacle.

I’m not saying that we have to revive those customs, but reverence directed at the Body of Christ reserved on the altar or in the chapel reminds us all of why we gather in this place.

If the Pew Center’s findings are accurate, it presents a serious challenge for us in our catechesis and our preaching.

But that’s a different issue than the presence of extraordinary or special ministers of Communion, who were introduced by Pope Paul VI in 1971.

Actually, these ministers were reintroduced, because lay ministers of the

Eucharist were well known in the first seven centuries in the life of the Church.

Among the reasons for restoring this ministry were expediting reception of the sacrament by the ill and homebound and distribution of the Body and Blood of Christ at Mass.

Far from detracting from the respect due to the Eucharist, special ministers I have seen – in churches, homes, hospitals, and nursing facilities – have communicated only reverence.

More to it, the fact that lay men and women participate in this way in the ritual that Jesus asked his followers to practice in his memory, emphasizes the intimacy of the relationship between him and his Church – “Church” meaning the men, women, and children who compose the Body of Christ.

Those of us ordained to the priesthood and the diaconate are called to particular service at the altar, but we are not called to stand between Christ and his disciples, a sort of clerical gauntlet a person must encounter in order to be united with the Lord.

I, for one, rejoice in the opportunity to share this ministry. In the participation of clergy, special ministers, and the assembly of the faithful, I see the seamless garment that Christ intended his Church to be.

Deacon Paolino exercises his ministry at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Whitehouse Station

ligion (more than his brother!) and is rapt with attention in learning new stories about Jesus. He already understands that at Mass, the bread and wine are consecrated and become the body and blood of Christ.

What would my 5-year-old have to do to qualify to receive his first Communion this upcoming school year? Could he be interviewed to demonstrate that he has reached the age of reason and comprehends enough of the instruction?

(Chesapeake, Va.)

A

Eucharistic ministers not ‘just anybody’ I should know better than to argue about religion on Twitter, but I recently got into it with a man who wondered in a tweet why, on the one hand, a priest wears a humeral veil to handle the monstrance during exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, but – as he put it – we let “just anybody” handle not only the vessels but the Eucharist itself at Mass.

Mustard Seeds

By Deacon Charles Paolino I reminded the man that the humeral veil, like the monstrance itself, is a symbol designed to emphasize the real presence of Jesus Christ – God with us – but that the priest doesn’t use a humeral veil when he consecrates the bread and wine at Mass, just as Jesus did not when he instituted the sacrament at the Last Supper.

This observation didn’t have any effect on my correspondent, whose real concern was the role assumed by “just anybody,” by which he meant extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, of whom he obviously does not approve.

First of all, I’m acquainted with all of the extraordinary ministers of holy Communion in my parish, and I wouldn’t

17

Models of faith-filled obedience

SCRIPTURE STUDY

By Msgr. John N. Fell The Letter to the Hebrews then continues by reflecting on Abraham and Sarah and revealing that it was faith that enabled them to obey God’s command to move to the land of Canaan. Their transfer to this Promised Land earned them God’s blessing, but, the Letter tells us, Abraham “sojourned in the promised land as in a foreign country, dwelling in tents . . . (Heb 11:9). Even in the Promised Land, Abraham realized that God’s full blessing was not to be received on this earth. Abraham lived on the earth as one waiting for the ultimate fulfillment of God’s promise in heaven.

He knew that his final destination was not Canaan, but rather “the city with foundations whose architect and maker is God” (Heb 11:10). The Letter next mentions Abraham’s wife, Sarah, as another model of faith. Because she ultimately trusted in the promise made to her by the angel, she was given the power to conceive. And so, because of their faith, God gave this couple, already aged far beyond their child-bearing

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE

SUNDAY, AUGUST 11 - SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 7

Wis 18:6-9 • Ps 33:1, 12, 18-19, 20-22 • Heb 11:1-2, 8-19 • Lk 12:32-48 Dt 10:12-22 • Ps 147:12-13, 14-15, 19-20 • Mt 17:22-27 Dt 31:1-8 • Dt 32:3-4ab, 7, 8, 9, 12 • Mt 18:1-5, 10, 12-14 Dt 34:1-12 • Ps 66:1-3a, 5, 8, 16-17 • Mt 18:15-20 Rv 11:19a; 12:1-6a, 10ab • Ps 45:10, 11, 12, 16 • 1 Cor 15:20-27 • Lk 1:39-56 Jos 24:1-13 • Ps 136:1-3, 16-18, 21-22, 24 • Mt 19:3-12 Jos 24:14-29 • Ps 16:1-2a, 5, 7-8, 11 • Mt 19:13-15 Jer 38:4-6, 8-10 • Ps 40:2, 3, 4, 18 • Heb 12:1-4 • Lk 12:49-53 Jgs 2:11-19 • Ps 106:34-35, 36-37, 39-40, 43ab, 44 • Mt 19:16-22 Jgs 6:11-24a • Ps 85:9, 11-12, 13-14 • 19:23-30 Jgs 9:6-15 • Ps 21:2-3, 4-5, 6-7 • Mt 20:1-16 Jgs 11:29-39a • Ps 40:5, 7-8a, 8b-9, 10 • Mt 22:1-14 Ru 1:1, 3-6, 14b-16, 22 • Ps 146:5-6ab, 6c-7, 8-9a, 9bc-10 • Mt 22:34-40 Rv 21:9b-14 • Ps 145:10-11, 12-13, 17-18 • Jn 1:45-51 Is 66:18-21 • Ps 117:1, 2 • Heb 12:5-7, 11-13 • Lk 13:22-30 1 Thes 1:1-5, 8b-10 • Ps 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a, 9b • Mt 23:13-22 1 Thes 2:1-8 • Ps 139:1-3, 4-6 • Mt 23:23-26 1 Thes 2:9-13 • Ps 139:7-8, 9-10, 11-12ab • Mt 23:27-32 1 Thes 3:7-13 • Ps 90:3-5a, 12-13, 14, 17 • Mk 6:17-29 1 Thes 4:1-8 • Ps 97: 1, 2b, 5-6, 10, 11-12 • Mt 25:1-13 1 Thes 4:9-11 • Ps 98:1, 7-8, 9 • Mt 25:14-30 Sir 3:17-18, 20, 28-29 • Ps 68: 4-5, 6-7, 10-11 • Heb 12:18-19, 22-24a • Lk 14:1, 7-14 1 Thes 4:13-18 • Ps 96:1, 3, 4-5, 11-12, 13 • Lk 4:16-30 1 Thes 5:1-6, 9-11 • Ps 27:1, 4, 13-14 • Lk 4:31-37 Col 1:1-8 • Ps 52:10, 11 • Lk 4:38-44 Col 1:9-14 • Ps 98:2-3ab, 3cd-4, 5-6 • Lk 5:1-11 Col 1:15-20 • Ps 100:1b-2, 3, 4, 5 • Lk 5:33-39 Col 1:21-23 • Ps 54:3-4, 6, 8 • Lk 6:1-5

Stanislaus Kostka 1550 - 1568 feast - Aug. 15

Image © The Crosiers

Born in the family castle in Poland, Stanislaus was educated privately, then at a Jesuit college in Vienna, Austria. After having visions during a serious illness, he decided to enter the Jesuits.

His father, a Polish senator, opposed this; he wanted Stanislaus to become a diplomat. Rejected by the Vienna Jesuits, Stanislaus walked to the Upper Germany province, where Peter Canisius took him in, then sent him to Rome. In 1567, the father general accepted Stanislaus into the Society of Jesus; for the nine months before his death in Rome, he lived a life of mortifications, ecstasies and holiness. A patron saint of Poland, he was canonized in 1726 with another Jesuit novice, Aloysius Gonzaga.

Saints

SCRIPTURE SEARCH

®

Gospel for August 11, 2019 Luke 12:32-48 Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the 19th Sunday, Cycle C: about being properly prepared. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

DO NOT FEAR GIVE YOU TREASURE MOTH HOUSE PRUDENT DELAYED

AFRAID ALMS IN HEAVEN WEDDING SON OF MAN MASTER DRUNK

LITTLE FLOCK WEAR OUT NO THIEF OPEN FAITHFUL TRULY ENTRUSTED

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© 2019 Tri-C-A Publications www.tri-c-a-publications.com

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT AUGUST 8, 2019

Sun 11 Mon 12 Tues 13 Wed 14 Thurs 15 Fri 15 Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tues 20 Wed 21 Thurs 22 Fri 23 Sat 24 Sun 25 Mon 26 Tues 27 Wed 28 Thurs 29 Fri 30 Sat 31 Sun 1 Mon 2 Tues 3 Wed 4 Thurs 5 Fri 6 Sat 7

years, “descendants as numerous as the stars in the sky and the sands on the seashore” (Heb 11:12). Because they embraced God in faith, this ordinary couple was empowered to do extraordinary things. The supreme test of Abraham’s faith came when the Lord asked him to sacrifice his beloved son, Isaac. When Abraham proved himself ready to obey God even in this, he sealed the fact of his eternal blessing, and became a model of faith-filled obedience for all peoples. It is this kind of faith-filled obedience that Jesus is calling for in this Sunday’s reading from St. Luke’s Gospel, which begins with Jesus’ exhortation to avoid excessive concern with worldly matters and possessions. He warns his followers that “where your treasure is, there also will your heart be” (Lk 12:34); like Abraham, we must look to what is spiritually beneficial rather than to that which is materially lucrative.

Such concern with the things of heaven must characterize every word and deed of Jesus’ followers. Jesus tells the story of the watchful servant. The master is away at a wedding feast. The servants know that he will return, but they do not know the exact time. They must, therefore, be in a state of constant readiness, so that the master may find them ready and waiting upon his return. If they are so prepared, the master will bless them greatly. Jesus’ followers likewise know that he will return at the end of time, but do not know exactly when this will be. St. Luke ends this section of his Gospel with a stern reminder to the leaders of the Christian community. They have been placed in charge of Jesus’ precious treasure, that is, his beloved people. Jesus warns them, “much will be required of the person entrusted with much, and still more will be demanded of the person entrusted with more” (Lk 12:48). The model of Abraham looms large as an example to follow for all who take this Sunday’s readings to heart, that is, for all those who “desire a better homeland, a heavenly one” (Heb 11:16a).

Msgr. Fell is a Scripture scholar and director, diocesan Office for Priest Personnel

OUR FAITH

19th Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)

“Faith is the realization of what is hoped for and evidence of things not seen” (Heb 11:1). So begins our second reading this Sunday, an extended tribute to the faith of our Old Testament ancestors, especially Abraham, the classic exemplar of faith. The Letter to the Hebrews describes faith as the solid foundation of Christian life. It underlies and confirms both our hope for the future fulfillment of God’s promises in Christ Jesus, as well as our present belief in God’s past and ongoing interventions on behalf of his people. Faith involves our awareness and embrace of God’s beneficence in our lives; the Letter to the Hebrews discusses faith not so much as the content of all we believe, but as humanity’s confident assurance of God’s benign omnipotence; it is “first of all a personal adherence of man to God” (CCC, par. 150).

18

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Iraqi monks' faith endures despite dangers BEIRUT (CNS) — The first time a band of Islamic State militants “visited” the monks, they presented the monks with a kind of suggestion, in a nonthreatening manner: “Why don’t you become a Muslim?”

Already, the four monks at the ancient Syriac Catholic Mar Behnam Monastery in Khidr, Iraq, had felt they were under siege.

Ten days earlier, on June 10, 2014, five carloads of militants roared through the peaceful road leading to Mar Behnam, announcing through megaphones that the Islamic State was in control. Not long before that, the Iraqi army had withdrawn from a checkpoint near the monastery, located southeast of Mosul.

“Visits” from the terrorists the next few weeks intensified: banging on the monastery doors and accusations of the monks being infidels.

“Quite frankly, we were more than frightened,” said Syriac Catholic Father Youssef Sakat, who had served as Mar Behnam’s superior.

The monks kept up with their regular daily routine of prayer and Mass in the monastery, which dates back to the fourth century. They prayed for protection through the intercession of St. Behnam, a martyr, with faith that “we were in a blessed place,” mindful that generations of Syriac Catholic Christians had also faced persecution, and still the faith had endured, Father Sakat said.

Under Father Sakat’s direction since 2012, Mar Behnam had flourished, welcoming up to 250 visitors on weekends — even from around the world — for retreats and lodging with the goal of helping people to better understand the monastic life. The monks would engage the children in lively faith-based activities.

“We wanted to show them that Mar Behnam is their home, too,” Father Sakat said.

A Muslim friend the monks trusted was keeping them abreast of the worsening situation, but even he was becoming fearful.

All the while, Father Sakat was deeply concerned about how to safeguard the chalices and other sacramentals and the monastery’s extensive collection of religious manuscripts from inevitable destruction by the militants. The 630 manuscripts, dating from the 12th to 18th centuries, were written in a range of languages, including Syriac, Greek, French and Latin.

Twice, Father Sakat tried to leave by car, with the intention of taking manuscripts to Qaraqosh, nine miles away. Each time, the militants at the Islamic State checkpoint near Mar Behnam told the priest that he was not allowed to take anything from the monastery.

On their own, the monks could not come up with a solution, Father Sakat said.

He recalled that July 19, “I felt in my heart: I have to hide them now.” He chose a long, narrow closet under a stairwell that

Syriac Catholic Father Youssef Sakat shows a photograph of a door at Mar Behnam Monastery July 8, 2019. The monastery, which is located near Mosul, Iraq, was destroyed by Islamic State forces in 2014.

— CNS photo/Dalia Khamissy

was used to store cleaning supplies.

“It was the Lord who directed us,” Father Sakat said.

Beginning at 8 p.m., the monks worked together, carefully placing the sacramentals and manuscripts into nine steel barrels used for storing grain. With cinderblocks from a monastery renovation project, they built a false wall in the closet, hiding the barrels behind it. With a cement mixture, they painted all the walls to give them the same appearance. Cleaning supplies were put back in place in the closet. The monks even left the closet door ajar, so as not to rouse suspicions of any Islamist intruder.

They finished their work at 3 a.m.

At 1:30 p.m., four Islamic State militants barged through the Mar Behnam door with a sheikh. The monks were given three choices: either become Muslim, pay the jizya tax or leave. “We prefer to leave,” Father Sakat told the Islamists.

Father Sakat was ordered to turn over all the keys to the monastery and vehicles.

Banished from his beloved monastery, as he walked out the door, “I looked back and told Mar [St.] Behnam, ‘I did what I had to do. Now I entrust them under your intercession, by the power of God. Keep them safe. They are under your protection,’” Father Sakat recounted of his plea to safeguard the sacramentals and manuscripts.

The monks were ordered into one of the militants’ vehicles. Two miles from the monastery, the militants left the monks on the road, warning: “Whoever looks back, we will shoot him.”

The monks walked several hours to Qaraqosh. Their reprieve from terrorism was not for long. Soon that city and other Christian villages in the Ninevah Plain also

fell to Islamic State.

In June 2015, the Syriac Catholic patriarch called Father Sakat to Lebanon for his new mission, helping Iraqi Christian refugees who had come to Lebanon from Kurdistan, in northern Iraq. Now the priest heads the Syriac Catholic Holy Family center in an area of Beirut where many Iraqi Christians settled, with the hope of being resettled in Western countries. Initially, there were 1,200 Syriac Catholic families, totaling 6,700 people. Many are now scattered all over the world; 600 families remain in Lebanon, waiting.

In March 2015, the Islamic State blew up part of Mar Behnam, and the monastery remained under the militants’ control until the area was liberated in October 2017.

When Father Sakat visited the monastery that December, he said he was shocked at the destruction. Graffiti covered the walls.

The pillars of the altar were incinerated.

One by one, all religious phrases, crosses and symbols inscribed into the monastery's stones were drilled out and defaced, including the names of priests inscribed on tombs.

Religious statues were smashed, a statue of Mary beheaded.

Father Sakat stood with anticipation as the wall concealing the manuscripts was chiseled away with a jackhammer, to reveal, intact, the nine steel barrels containing the sacramentals and manuscripts. The manuscripts were individually packed, this time into car trunks to transport them to the Queen of Peace Syriac Catholic Church in Irbil for safekeeping.

Restoration of the monastery is currently in progress, but “it needs some time,” Father Sakat said.

“I’m waiting for the Lord’s will, to go back [to Mar Behnam],” he added.

Journey of Faith

By Father John Gerard Hillier

Travel

to bear”…“It is by following Christ, renouncing themselves, and taking up their crosses that spouses will be able to ‘receive’ the original meaning of marriage and live it with the help of Christ. This grace of Christian marriage is a fruit of Christ’s cross, the source of all Christian life” (ccc 1615).

St. Paul articulates a similar theology of marriage in his Letter to the Ephesians (5:25) when he says: “Husbands, love your wives, as Christ loved the church and gave himself up for her, that he might sanctify her,” adding at once: “For this reason a man shall leave his father and mother and be joined to his wife, and the two shall become one” (ccc 1616).

This section of the Catechism concludes: “Since it signifies and communicates grace, marriage between baptized persons is a true sacrament of the New Covenant” (ccc 1617). A few paragraphs later we are told: “Both the sacrament of Matrimony and virginity for the Kingdom of God come from the Lord ... It is he who gives them meaning and grants them the grace which is indispensable for living them out in conformity with his will” (ccc 1620).

Father Hillier serves as Director of the Office of the Pontifical Mission Societies, Censor Librorum and oversees the Office for Persons with Disabilities

with

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Statistically, it would seem that not many people who respond “I do” to the wedding vow “until death do us part” really mean what they say. Yet, a general survey among faithfully married couples or new widows or widowers would seem to confirm that the glue that kept their marriage together was their faith in Christ and the promise they made before God on their wedding day. This promise is summarized succinctly in the opening paragraph of this section of the Catechism.

Quoting from the Second Vatican Council’s “Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World” (“Gatium et Spes”), the Catechism states: “The matrimonial covenant, by which a man and a woman establish between themselves a partnership of the whole of life, is by its nature ordered toward the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring; this covenant between baptized persons has been raised

by Christ the Lord to the dignity of a sacrament” (ccc 1601).

In the first book of the Bible, we read the words of the first creation account: “God created mankind in his image ... male and female he created them.

God blessed them and said to them: Be fruitful and multiply; fill the earth and subdue it” (Gn 1:27-28).

A few paragraphs later, in chapter 2, we read the second creation account: “The Lord God said: It is not good for the man to be alone. I will make a helper suited to him... When [the Lord] brought her to the man, the man said: This one, at last, is bone of my bones and flesh of my flesh; This one shall be called ‘woman,’ for out of man this one has been taken.

That is why a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife, and the two of them become one body” (Gn 2: 18; 21-24).

The Catechism affirms, echoing the

Second Vatican Council, that “God him- tament, we notice that they begin preself is the author of marriage” and “the paring “the Chosen People’s conscience vocation to marriage is written in the for a deepened understanding of the very nature of man and woman as they unity and indissolubility of marriage” came from the hand of the Creator” (ccc (ccc 1611). The Books of Ruth and To1603). Therefore, the bit, for example, “bear Catechism concludes, moving witness to an “marriage is not a elevated sense of marIt is this union, or purely human instituriage and to the fidelmarriage, as the tion” (ccc 1603). ity and tenderness of Whether reading Catechism states, that spouses” (ccc 1611). the Book of Genesis In fact, we are told, “helps to overcome in a general or a more “tradition has always focused way, there is seen in the “Song of self-absorption, egono doubt that Sacred Solomon” a unique Scripture, from the expression of human ism, pursuit of one’s beginning, affirms love” (ccc 1611). No own pleasure, and to God blessing the value wonder Jesus’ presand dignity of marence at the wedding open oneself to the riage between those feast of Cana is highother, to mutual aid he created “male and lighted by the Church female” (Gn 1:27). as a “confirmation of and to self-giving” Then the disorthe goodness of mar(ccc 1609). der of “sin” entered riage and the proclathe world, the “first mation that thenceconsequence” being forth marriage will be “the rupture of the original communion an efficacious sign of Christ’s presence” between man and woman.” As the Cat- (ccc 1613). echism puts it, “the beautiful vocation Many in our present culture insist of man and woman to be fruitful, multi- that the indissolubility of the marriage is ply, and subdue the earth was burdened a demand impossible to fulfill. However, by the pain of childbirth and the toil of the Catechism echoes the sentiments of work” (ccc 1607). the Church of all ages that “Jesus has not After the fall, our first parents find placed on spouses a burden impossible themselves in a situation which, without God’s help, they and their descendants will not achieve the union for which God created them “in the beginning” (ccc 1608). It is this union, or marriage, as the Catechism states, that “helps to overcome self-absorption, egoism, pursuit of one’s own pleasure, and to open oneself to the other, to mutual aid and to self-giving” (ccc 1609).

Human nature left to itself, however, continues to place humanity in a most precarious position. Therefore, in the Book of Deuteronomy we discern SPOTLIGHT PILGRIMAGE: that the law of Moses was intended to protect the wife from arbitrary domination by her husband. This explains why CHRISTMAS ON THE Moses permitted men to divorce their wives. [Jesus speaks to this later in the DANUBE New Testament when he explains why featuring a 6-night Moses permitted men to divorce their Danube River cruise wives. It was, Jesus says, because of man’s “hardness of heart” (see Matthew With Fr. Anthony Sirianni, pastor 19:8).]

St. Helena Parish, Edison In the later prophets of the Old Tes-

FAITH ALIVE

Article 123 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 1601-1620

19

Grace of Christian marriage is fruit of Christ’s cross

20 OUR DIOCESE AUGUST 8, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

OBITUARIES Graham Felix Hillier, 89, of St. John's, Newfoundland, Canada, died July 26 at St. Clare's Hospital, NL. He is the father of Father John G. Hillier, director of the diocesan Office for Persons with Disabilities and the diocesan Office of the Pontifical Mission Societies.

In addition to Father Hillier, Graham is survived by his devoted wife of 64 years, Margaret (nee Dodd) and his children, Graham (Maxine Webb), Glenn (Shana Hiscock), his loving and devoted daughter Georgina as well as his three grandchildren Michael (Claire), Justin (Kelly) Hillier and Ryan Webb and his three greatgrandchildren Rachael, Vincent and Teagan.

Born in Dildo, Trinity Bay, Graham was predeceased by his parents William and Sarah Belle (Miller), his infant son Wayne, and his siblings,

Clara, George, Emma, and Eric.

Before his retirement, Graham was the photographic engineer at the Marine Science Research Laboratory, an affiliate of Memorial University of Newfoundland, Logy Bay. He was a 4th degree member of the Knights of Columbus.

He will be fondly remembered by loving family and friends.

Visitation was held at Barrett’s Funeral Home, St. John's .

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated at the Basilica of St. John the Baptist Newfoundland and Labrador on Monday, July 29th.

Father Hillier presided at the Mass and delivered the homily. Father Cecil Critch, Basilica Rector and Vicar General, Archdiocese of St. John's, concelebrated. Interment followed at Mount Carmel Cemetery, St. John's.

Filippini Sister Mary Pezzino, 94, died peacefully on Friday, July 26, 2019, at St. Joseph Hall, Home Healthcare Center of the Filippini Sisters, Villa Walsh Motherhouse, Morristown, N.J. Her viewing was held on Monday, July 26, at 2:00 p.m. followed by a Mass of Christian Burial at 4:00 p.m. in the St. Lucy Chapel at Villa Walsh, Morristown, NJ. Father Nick Figurelli was the celebrant and homilist.

Interment was held at the Ave Maria Cemetery at Villa Walsh. Arrangements were by the Doyle Funeral Home, Morristown.

Born and raised in Belleville, N.J., Sister Mary entered the Religious Teachers Filippini in 1940. She received her habit in 1941, and made her religious profession in 1944.

Sister Mary was awarded a BS degree in elementary education from the College of St. Elizabeth, Convent Station, N.J. Sister Mary taught in the middle school in the Archdioceses of Newark, N.J.

Philadelphia, P.A., Hartford, CT. and the Dioceses of Trenton, Metuchen, Camden, and Cleveland, Ohio.

Sister Mary was principal and superior at St. Jerome School in West Long Branch, from 1962-68 and at St. James School in Trenton from 1972-78. Wherever Sister Mary was assigned or whatever asked to do, she accomplished her roles meticulously and responsibly.

Sister Mary retired in 2002 at St. James in Trenton and in 2005 entered St. Joseph Hall Infirmary until her passing. Her graciousness, especially in her last years of illness, won the hearts of the nursing staff and all who cared for her and visited her.

Sister Mary is predeceased by her parents Salvatore and Mary (Cammorata) Pezzino and sister Rose (Anthony) Colazzo. She is survived by her brother Joseph Pezzino and devoted, loving niece Susan (James) Doyle and nephews, Richard, Jerry (Debbie), Anthony Colazzo and great nieces and nephews.

Prayer and Worship

Fun and Food

Sept. 11, 4 to 7 p.m. — St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, Hillsborough, will sponsor a Slavic dinner in the parish center. The dinner will include all you can eat pierogis, stuffed cabbage, kielbasa, mashed potatoes, dessert and more. The cost is $15 for those nine years old and older and $5 for children eight years old and under. To-go orders are available. For information, call (908) 7250615.

Special Events

Sept. 2, 10 a.m. — Life Choices Resource Center, Metuchen, and the members of Our Lady of Victories Respect Life Group, Sayreville, invites all to march with them in the Labor Day Parade in South Plainfield beginning on Cady Lane off Maple Ave. For details, email Ted Tyszkiewicz, treasurelife33@gmail.com.

Pilgrimages

Nov. 18-22 — St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Three Bridges, under the spiritual direction of Father Thomas J. Serafin and Father Michael J. Kreder, will hold a pilgrimage to Our Lady of Guadalupe Shrine in Mexico.

The cost of $1648 includes, roundtrip airfare, first class hotels, guided sightseeing, some meals and more. For details or to

register, visit www.EOCatholic.com or call (800) 247-0017.

OUR DIOCESE

Aug. 15, 6:30 p.m. — St. Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish, New Brunswick, will celebrate the Marian Year of preparation, with vespers, prayer and catechesis. All are welcome. For information, call (732) 545-6820.

21

AROUND THE DIOCESE Support Programs

Aug. 27, 7 to 9 p.m. — Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer, Watchung, will present a men’s group entitled “Man to Man.” The evening will feature life affirming discussion and prayer to find God in your life and how to make a difference in the world. A free-will offering will be collected. For information, call (908) 753-2091 or visit www.msmhope.org.

Sept. 11, 7 p.m. — Church of the Sacred Heart Parish, South Plainfield, will offer “In God’s Image” a gay, lesbian, bisexual, transgender (GLBT) faith sharing group, on the second Wednesday of the month. The group will meet in the Annex, located off Leonard Ave. Adults 18 years old and over are welcome. For details, call Father John, (908) 756-0633 ext. 125.

Golf Outings

Sept. 5, 9 a.m. — Council 5170, Knights of Columbus, Washington, invites all to a charity golf outing at Harkers Hollow Golf Club, Phillipsburg. Proceeds will benefit Warren County charities. The day will begin with breakfast at 7:30 a.m. The fee of $75 includes use of a golf cart and meals. To register, call (973) 271-8441.

Outside the Diocese

Sept. 6-12 — St. Joseph by the Sea Retreat House, South Mantoloking, will present a silent retreat entitled, “Breath of God.” The cost is $515. To register, call (732) 892-8494 or visit www.sjbsea.org.

Mission of Mercy Mercy Sister Carole Mc Kenthum (left) and Mercy Sister Margo Kavanaugh cut a ribbon at a ceremony in which they accepted the gift of a new van to transport the handicapped for the McAuley Hall Health Care Center, Watchung. The Anna Mary Kavanaugh Trust Fund provided financial support for the purchase.

— photo courtesy of the Mercy Sister Marjorie Smith

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God allows Moses to see the Promised Land

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service Jesus traveled many places, and everywhere he went, he taught great crowds of people about God. Jesus often used parables to teach important lessons. For example, through the parable of the rich fool, he taught that it was not right to become obsessed with storing up wealth on Earth. And he used the parable of the barren fig tree to show the people that they would perish if they did not repent of their sins.

In addition to teaching, Jesus also healed people who were sick or possessed by unclean spirits. No matter what the problem was, Jesus could cure it.

Jesus did all these things as he and the apostles passed through towns and villages on their way to Jerusalem.

During his travels, Jesus also was asked many questions. One time, a person wanted to know if only a few people would be saved.

“Strive to enter through the narrow gate, for many, I tell you, will attempt to enter but will not be strong enough,” Jesus answered.

He went on to describe how the master of the house would arise and lock his door. After that, no one would be allowed to enter.

“Then will you stand outside knocking and saying, ‘Lord, open the door for us.’ He will say to you in reply, ‘I do not know where you are from,’” Jesus said.

“And you will say, ‘We ate and drank in your company and you taught in our streets.’ Then he will say to you, ‘I do not know where you are from. Depart from me, all you evildoers!’”

Afterward, Jesus said, the people outside the door would see Abraham, Isaac, Jacob and all the prophets in the kingdom of God. The people would wail and grind their teeth, realizing that they were not going to be allowed into the kingdom.

“And people will come from the east and the west and from the north and the south and will recline at table in

READ MORE ABOUT IT: LUKE 12 & 13 Q&A: 1. How did Jesus describe the gate to God’s kingdom?

2. What would people be doing outside the master’s door?

PUZZLE: Unscramble the letters in each word and arrange them to form a quotation from the children's story.

lal mrof oyu vileroesd em tredap

"Jesus traveled many places, and everywhere he went, he taught great crowds of people about God."

Puzzle Answer: all, from, you, evildoers, me, depart Depart from me, all you evildoers!

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Eucharistic Adoration is now being held in the chapel at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway. Adorers and intercessors are needed Monday through Friday 9 to 11:45 a.m. Daily Mass is held at 11:45 a.m. For information or to volunteer, call Laura Ferreras (732) 529-7932. To submit a prayer request, call (732) 765-6445.

Also, the newspaper’s new website was launched July 29. For access, go to http://www.catholicspirit.com/

The Pontifical Mission Office offers Mass Cards, Perpetual Masses and Gregorian Mass for the Living and Deceased. The suggested offering is from $5 to $300. To purchase a card, contact (732) 243-4580 or email pontifical.mission.societies@diometuchen.org.

On December 12th Bishop Checchio inaugurated a year of preparation for the consecration of the Diocese of Metuchen to Our Lady of Guadalupe. His intention for this year is that we each open our heart wide to God’s grace so that authentic spiritual renewal can take place. In light of this you are invited to come to an evening of prayer, preaching and reflection on the message and meaning of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s apparitions on our continent in 1531. Discover how The Blessed Mother led nine million indigenous Mexican people into a life changing encounter with her Son, Jesus, and how she desires to lead you into a deep and vibrant relationship with Him as well. For a listing of participating parishes go to: www.LightingHeartsOnFire.org.

8/17 A Young Adult Retreat, Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., Rutgers Catholic Center, New Brunswick. Young adults 18 to 39 years old are invited to attend. Step away from society and reflect on the questions burning in your heart. Come and learn what God is asking of you. Meals are included. To register, visit www.diometuchen.org/ya-retreat.

8/23-25 Retrouvaille, Office of Family Life Ministry. Retrouvaille is a lifeline to help couples heal and renew their marriages. The program consists of a weekend experience (no group discussions) and six follow-up sessions. For details or to register, call Rich and Annette Colasuonno, (732) 236-0671 or email 3024@retrouvaille.org.

September

9/4 A Catholic Prayer and Support for Families Affected by Mental Health Issues, Office for Persons with Disabilities, 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., St. Patrick Parish, Belvidere. The support group will offer spiritual support and tips on how to cope with mental health issues. The program will also be held through Dec. on the first Wednesday of the month. For details, call (732) 765-6432 or email catholicswithdisabilities@gmail.com.

9/21 “The Way of St. Juan Diego,” a one-day, 9-mile Walking Pilgrimage, Diocese of Metuchen, 10 a.m. to 8 p.m. beginning at Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale. All youth, families and people of faith are invited to attend. Mass will be celebrated by Bishop James F. Checchio. The cost is $20 by Aug. 30 or $25 thereafter. Registration is required. For details or to register, visit www.LightingHeartsOnFire.org/ walking-pilgrimage.

October

10/2 A Catholic Prayer and Support for Families Affected by Mental Health Issues, Office for Persons with Disabilities, 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., St. Patrick Parish, Belvidere. The support group will offer spiritual support and tips on how to cope with mental health issues. The program will also be held through Dec. on the first Wednesday of the month. For details, call (732) 765-6432 or email catholicswithdisabilities@gmail.com.

Mass of Remembrance scheduled at Resurrection Burial Park, Piscataway.

All are invited to participate at either site. These Masses are offered for all the deceased in the cemeteries. For more information, contact the diocesan Cemetery Office at (732) 463-1424.

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Father Michael Gromadzki will preside at the monthly Mass of Remembrance Sept.

7 at 9 a.m. in the Mausoleum Chapel at Holy Cross Burial Park, East Brunswick.

Father Sean Winters will preside at the same time in the Mausoleum Chapel

OUR DIOCESE

August

DIOCESAN EVENTS

There will be no issue of “The Catholic Spirit” Aug. 22 while the staff takes a brief vacation. Your next issue will be Sept. 5, the annual Back to School edition.

23

HELP WANTED

IMPORTANT NOTICES

24

Senior Servants

OUR DIOCESE

Left, Bishop James F. Checchio raises the Body and Blood of Christ at Mass at the St. Joseph Senior Home chapel, Woodbridge, July 18. Concelebrants were (from left) Father Rafal Charzynski, Salesians of St. John Bosco Father Jan Bernas and Father J. Maciej Melaniuk. Redemptorist Father Waldemar Latkowksi, who also concelebrated, is not shown.

Clockwise from right, Bishop Checchio distributes communion; poses with the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, who operate the facility, and prays before lunch. "The residents were very grateful for the opportunity to talk to the bishop and shake hands," said Sister Elizabeth Lopatka, administrator. Several beds are available at the nursing home and assisted living sections of the facility, Sister Elizabeth said. For information, call (732) 634-0004.

— John Batkowski photos

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