December 23, 2021 by The Catholic Spirit

DIocese celebrates World Mission Sunday, 16-17

Spirit atholic C THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

DECEMBER 23, 2021 • VOL. 26 NO. 12 • $2.00

Mary, Joseph and the baby Jesus are depicted in a wooden crèche at Sacred Heart Cathedral in Rochester, N.Y. At the Nativity, while everyone else looked adoringly at the newborn king, Joseph might have kept watch on the visitors, making sure his beloved was safe and comfortable. —CNS photo/Mike Crupi, Catholic Courier

INSIDE

Perspectives Our Faith

4 24-25

Kid’s Corner

Diocesan Events

Recovery Efforts

Community devastated by flood ... 3

This issue was mailed on December 21 Your next issue will be January 20

Bishop: Celebrate Nativity of our Lord like never before

DECEMBER 23, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

UP FRONT

My brothers and sisters in Christ,

and daring, these same children shall not be robbed of their inheritance or denied their right to live in a free and decent world.” My brothers and sisters in Christ, we, too, need to celebrate the great feast of Christmas, the birth of our Lord. Christmas celebrates so much more than a singular, spectacular, lovHow we need a little Christmas right ing event of 2,000 years ago – it is this very minute! Many people are even more than the birth of our Savsaying this Christmas will again be iour in Bethlehem long ago. Christmas a subdued one. The pandemic con- celebrates a presence that continues tinues and rising inflation has come to this day and for all time. St. Matdown full force upon our country thew reminded us in the Gospel, what and, in reality, the entire we celebrate is “Emworld. The fears that manuel,” that is “God Let us have stalked us with our is with us.” “The virgin recognize military overseas, threats shall conceive and bear of attacks and terrorism, a son, and they shall the arrival of all contribute to make us name him Emmanuel, a little more somber this which means God is the King of year. It also contributes with us.” He is always Peace and to the weakening of the close to us, especially value and dignity of all celebrate it like in the great gift of the human life and hence to Eucharist in which God we have never life giving celebrations, shares His very self like Christmas. with us. before. Let it Back in December In Christ’s birth, 1941, our fellow Ameri- change us forever the eternal triune God, cans were experiencing a who was forever and this year. tough Christmas, too, as will be, stoops down just a few weeks before from Heaven, and takes Christmas, Pearl Harbor was attacked. on human flesh to become one like Likewise at that time, U.S. service us, so that He knows our condition men and women joined the Allies in and can redeem it. St. Matthew states, the war against Germany in Europe. In “She will bear a son and you are to the midst of all of this – that year – De- name him Jesus, because he will save cember 1941 – British Prime Minister his people from their sins.” A whole Winston Churchill visited the U.S. and new world came into being with Jesus’ gave a speech urging all Americans, as birth. After thousands and thousands well as his countrymen and women in of years of preparation, which we Great Britain, to celebrate Christmas heard about during Advent and read with as much joy and hope as they all through the Old Testament, Christ could. comes to fulfill God’s promise and He encouraged them saying: “Let initiate a new reign where hope has a the children have their night of fun and favored place, and justice and peace laughter, let the gifts of Father Christ- will flourish in His time. mas delight their play. Let grown-ups Yes, God humbles Himself and share to the full in their unstinted plea- becomes man so that we can be with sures. . . resolved that by our sacrifice Him now and forever. This is our

Bishop James Checchio

Catholic Spirit THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

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The Catholic Spirit P.O. Box 191 • Metuchen, NJ 08840 PHONE: (732) 562-2424 • FAX: (732) 562-0969 PUBLISHER Bishop James F. Checchio EDITOR Father Timothy A. Christy, V.G. MANAGING EDITOR Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD (732) 562-2461

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hope. Let us recognize the arrival of the King of Peace and celebrate it like we have never before. Let it change us forever this year. There is no thing, possession nor person, in this world that can take the place of knowing Christ, born for us, and loving Him from the heart. The wisdom of God is found in knowing Him and embracing Him with love, adoration and grateful praise. There is no way around this, no shortcut to happiness that can be recommended, no substitute or fast-track plan that will accomplish this. So despite any of the anxiety, fears or pain caused by our situation this year, we should and must celebrate the Nativity of Our Lord. But we must do more than just remember it. This year we must rediscover the holy presence that continues into eternity, our true and one hope, “Emmanuel.” May our receiving of Jesus in the

Eucharist as we honor and remember His incarnation, help us to see our current situation with the vision of God Himself. Yes, my brothers and sisters in Christ, no matter what we feel and no matter what others say, God is very much with us and for us, and that we need to celebrate! Know of my love and prayers for you and may all of you have a blessed Christmas and 2022. With renewed best wishes, I remain Yours in Christ,

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

SY N OD 2023

EUCHARISTIC 40 HOURS a nd LISTENING SESSIONS Sunday, January 23rd – Tuesday, January 25th, 2022 Listening Sessions will be held on the evening of Tuesday, January 25, 2022 from 7:00 PM - 9:00 PM Forsgate Deanery Saint Bartholomew Church 470 Ryders Lane East Brunswick, NJ 08816

Raritan Bay Deanery Saint Thomas the Apostle Church 333 NJ-18 Old Bridge, NJ 08857

Cathedral Deanery Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi 32 Elm Avenue Metuchen, NJ 08840

Round Valley Deanery Saint Magdalen de Pazzi Church 105 Mine Street Flemington, NJ 08822

Morris Canal Deanery Sts. Philip & James Church 430 S Main Street Phillipsburg, NJ 08865

County Seat Deanery Immaculate Conception Church 35 Mountain Avenue Somerville, NJ 08876

Middlebrook Deanery Our Lady of Fatima Church 501 New Market Road Piscataway, NJ 08854

Somerset Hills Deanery Church of Saint James 184 South Finley Avenue Basking Ridge, NJ 07920

Forsgate Deanery* Saint Peter the Apostle University & Community Parish 94 Somerset Street New Brunswick, NJ 08901 *For Rutgers University Students and Young Adult Community Only.

Participants are asked to visit their local deanery session Unsure of your Parish or Deanery? Find your Parish and Deanery at https://diometuchen.org/parishfinder

More Information for the Synod on Synodality for The Diocese of Metuchen can be found at www.diometuchen.org/synod2023

of the

OUR DIOCESE

Where in the diocese can it be found?

Image Week

Hurricane volunteers honored as ‘Champions for Catholic Charities’ By Tara Smith MANVILLE — Redemptorist Father Stanislaw Slaby was celebrating the 7 p.m. Mass in Polish at Sacred Heart Church, a worship site of Christ the Redeemer Parish, on Sept. 1 when the heavy rain began to fall. Like many of his parishioners, he heard the alerts urging residents to heed local flood warnings, but the remnants of Hurricane Ida were advancing quickly through the area, dumping nearly nine inches of rain in almost as many hours and flooding the nearby Raritan and Millstone rivers. The pastor sent his parishioners home, before they could pray their usual novena to Our Lady of Perpetual Help after Mass, and well before the Blessed Sacrament was set to be reposed at 9 p.m. “During that time, the town be-

came an island,” said Father Slaby. The church is only minutes from their homes, yet “those who live on the north side of town reported that they barely made it because there was very heavy rain and ﬂash ﬂoods,” he recounted. While the flooding in Manville is nothing new for Father Slaby, who began his ministry there in 2009, just months before melting snow led to flooding in the area in March 2010 and only a couple years shy of when Hurricane Irene devastated the low-lying community, he said “nobody expected such great damage.” “We pray for people and we help as much as we can, doing our best, but when you see the extent of the damage, nothing you are able to do seems to be enough,” he said. “It’s just the beginning of a long, long process of recovery.”

— Gerald Wutkowski Jr. photo

Some parts of the parish’s campus received as many as four feet of water. Even their building on higher ground was deluged with two and a half feet of water, he said. But the damage there was minimal compared to that of neighboring homes and businesses, which had their foundations washed away and had gas leaks that led to explosions, rocking the small, already devastated community. In the days that followed, as mountains of waterlogged furniture and personal belongings clogged curbs throughout the town, lining the streets for what would be weeks to come, the parish clergy, staff, and volunteers worked to clean up the wreckage and respond to the immediate needs, both in the parish and in the community. Aided by donations from nearby parishes and individuals of goodwill, some of whom were also affected by the flooding, parishioners and volunteers distributed cleaning supplies, nonperishable items, fresh and frozen food, towels, and socks. Volunteers spent hours at the parish campus and in flooded homes, helping to clean and to remove damaged items. The parish-run food pantry, Caritas, prepared and delivered plates of stuffed golumpki, kielbasa, and other Polish foods. Donated by an importer of Polish foods and also by a parishioner who owns a Polish deli, the food was prepared and delivered to those affected by the flooding and to those aiding in the recovery efforts. Continued on page 8

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 2021

Mary Szaniawski, a 33-year resident of Manville and member of Christ the Redeemer Parish, shows Father Stanislaw Slaby the damage to her home caused by the remnants of Hurricane Ida. “I believe in God, if something happens, it happens for some reason. For now, we hang somewhere, and we are still waiting, for wherever God will bring us, whatever God will give to us,” she told him.

On Sept. 1, the remnants of Hurricane Ida advanced quickly through New Jersey. The storm heavily impacted the four counties in the diocese, leaving behind a trail of destruction and causing loss of life.

4 PERSPECTIVES

Hallmark, can you say “Jesus”? Take a cue from Linus! Body & Soul By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD Since October 22, I have been bombarded with Christmas movies on both the Hallmark Channel, Hallmark Movies & Mysteries Channel. What I found perplexing is how of the stories I chose to watch, Hallmark made a concerted effort to skirt around the heart of Christmas: Jesus! Without citing movie and channel, suffice it to say that I have heard more than one person try to define the meaning of Christmas. “Christmas is family.” In another film, “Christmas is bringing joy to others.” In still another movie, “Christmas is making others happy.” Without directly advertising merchandise, one character insisted that “Christmas is showing others you love them through the exchange of gifts.” Sure, one could argue that all of

these definitions of Christmas contain Christ as it is recorded in the Gospel an element of truth. One would say of Luke. that all of the movies airing since OcHere lies the true meaning of Christtober on the theme of mas. Charles Schulz, Christmas have been the gifted writer of the It is the perception of Peanuts’ adventures, entertaining. But these films, I presuppose, this writer to suggest had no problem insertare designed generiing the name of Jesus cally for Christians. I that the way Hallmark into the script. So, if highly doubt that Jews, cute film had no painstakingly incor- this Muslims, Buddhists or difficulty with definHindus are going to ing the true meaning of porates all types of be glued to their teleChristmas as the birth Christian families...it of Jesus Christ, why visions on these particular channels. So, also leaves the viewer can’t Hallmark say given the premise that “Jesus” in their films? these works of art are with the presumption It is the perception intended for all Chrisof this writer to suggest that Christmas must be that Hallmark painstian denominations, why did the writers of approached without takingly incorporates these Hallmark movies all types of Christian getting religious. go out of their way to families. Careful to avoid re-telling what include all races, age we read in the Infancy groups,and ethnicities, Narrative of Luke and Matthew? In “A Hallmark provides movies starring single Charlie Brown Christmas,” released moms, dads, same-sex couples, blended on Dec. 9, 1965, Linus gathers the famlies and empty-nesters. The network Peanuts crew and quotes the birth of also leaves the viewer with the presump-

tion that Christmas must be approached without getting religious. Well, how does one separate faith from life, especially if one believes that the meaning of life can only be understood within the context of faith? How does one decorate the house with festive lights, evergreens trimmed with colorful glass balls and display Christmas pageants without pivoting on the axis of the Nativity of Our Lord, which is the zenith of the whole Christian experience? It behooves this writer, who happens to be a priest, to imagine Christmas without Christ, just as it would be unconscionable to celebrate Valentines’ Day without alluding to love (the next series of Hallmark films). Needless to say, this writer contends that Hallmark should continue to make Christmas films and entertain the folks who gather around the television; however, take the time to research the true meaning of Christmas, and maybe take a cue from Linus! Father Comandini is the managing editor of The Catholic Spirit

Youth urged to seek a religious vocation, serve elderly to see our residents and their families fulfillment that can be found sharing enjoying themselves during our cel- life with the elderly, like I did! And so, I make this appeal to young people: ebrations. Sitting quietly in the chapel, the As the number of older persons in our population conjoy welling up in tinues to grow at an my heart served as In his homily on the exponential rate, I an affirmation of my vocation. Ever since World Day for Grand- urge you to consider my days as a teenage pursuing a religious volunteer in a home parents and the Elderly, vocation or a career at the service of our of the Little Sisters of Pope Francis asked, most vulnerable sethe Poor, the elderly “When was the last have been for me the niors! They are worth your effort and hard treasure buried in time we visited or a field – a precious work, and they detelephoned an elderly serve our attention. treasure uniquely worth leaving evAs I reflected laboring in their fields. One of these parables really erything else for and person in order to show on the parable of the caught my attention this summer. “The devoting my life to. our closeness and to treasure buried in the field, I couldn’t Over 40 years Kingdom of heaven is like a treasure buried in a field, which a person finds after my first en- benefit from what they help dwelling on a specific detail – the and hides again and out of joy goes counter with the frail, have to tell us?” and sells all that he has and buys that m e m o r y - i m p a i r e d treasure was hidden, residents of a nursing perhaps even disfield” (Mt 13:44). carded. I think this As I meditated on these words a home, the elderly and flood of emotions arose in my heart. our mission of hospitality to them are also applies to the elderly, who all too often find themselves relegated to the We had recently celebrated the first- still my greatest joy. ever World Day for Grandparents and How I wish that more young margins of our frenetic lives. the Elderly and I had been so happy people would discover the joy and In his homily on the World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly, Pope Francis asked, “When was the last time we visited or telephoned an If you were sexually abused by a member of the clergy or anyone representing the Catholic Church, or you elderly person in order to show our closeness and to benefit from what know of someone who was, you are encouraged to report that abuse to local law enforcement, the New they have to tell us?” Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency at 1-877-NJ ABUSE (652-2873) or 1-800-835-5510 He continued, “I worry when I (TTY/TDD for the deaf), and also the Diocesan Response Officer at (908) 930-4558 (24 hours/7 days a see a society full of people in constant week). motion too caught up in their own af-

DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

In our mid-summer weekday Masses, we read a series of parables from the Gospel of St. Matthew. These stories were perfect for summer with their portrayal of Jesus and his disciples by the sea and their images of farmers

How to report abuse

fairs to have time for a glance, a greeting or a hug. I worry about a society where individuals are simply part of a nameless crowd, where we can no longer look up and recognize one another. Our grandparents, who nourished our own lives, now hunger for our attention and our love; they long for our closeness. Let us lift up our eyes and see them, even as Jesus sees us.” Referring to the miracle of the feeding of the 5,000, the Gospel reading for that day, Pope Francis compared the elderly to the leftover fragments of bread. “No person is ever to be discarded. … Grandparents and the elderly are not leftovers from life, scraps to be discarded. They are precious pieces of bread left on the table of life that can still nourish us with a fragrance that we have lost, ‘the fragrance of memory.’” Our elders “protected us as we grew, and now it is up to us to protect their lives, to alleviate their difficulties, to attend to their needs and to ensure that they are helped in daily life,” the pope said. “Let us protect them, so that nothing of their lives and dreams may be lost.… Let us covenant with them. Let us learn to approach them, listen to them and never discard them. Let us cherish them and spend time with them. We will be the better for it.” Sister Constance Veit is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.

NKWELLE EZUNAKA, Nigeria -- On a quiet, breezy morning, Sister Dorothy Okoli stood amid schoolchildren ages 6-12 in a classroom, teaching them English. It is a class she says she enjoys teaching, having studied English and guidance and counseling at the university. “I love to teach, and I see it as another ministry given to me by God,” said Sister Okoli, the school’s headmistress. The school serves children between the ages of 3 and 12, with an orphanage where orphaned children and those from indigent homes are sheltered, cared for, and given free education -- a program Sister Okoli describes as a means of contributing to society. “We established this orphanage home with the aim of giving the children free education, due to the current economic situation in the country,” she said. “We have a lot of children who are wandering the streets aimlessly, exhibiting and learning

A teacher instructs students on quantitative education at Hail Mary Nursery and Primary School in Nkwelle Ezunaka, Nigeria, Oct. 5. The school, which provides free education to orphans and indigent children, is run by the Missionary Sisters of St. John Paul II of Mary. —CNS photo/Valentine Iwenwanne

all sorts of unpalatable behaviors, and when you’d approach them, you’d find out that they are children who are supposed to be in school but, due to financial constraints on the part of their parents, they end up in the streets. “Nigeria has a griming statistic of over 10.5 million children who are out of school, and our free school program is just our own way of supplementing the efforts of the government in providing free education to provide a cushioning effect to the overwhelming statistics.”

Ministry seeks to again bring joy to needy

—CNS photo/Cross Catholic Outreach

ful suggestions as to how to get involved; this year’s effort has been underway since early September.

LA PLATA, Md. -- A mixture of high energy, a little friendly trash-talking and general camaraderie was in the air at the parking lot of Sacred Heart Church on a recent Saturday morning. More than 130 bicyclists checked their brakes, filled water bottles and geared up Sept. 18 for the annual Ride for Vocations of the Archdiocese of Washington. Following a kick-off Mass, riders ranging from experienced long-distance cyclists to kids with their parents set out in groups on a route that snaked through 101 miles of countryside and small towns in Southern Maryland. It was all in the interest of praying for and raising awareness about vocations. Routes that ended after 70 miles and 50 miles also were options for the cyclists. Julie Ferrero, a staff member at Sacred Heart who has

Bicyclists in the Archdiocese of Washington are seen in La Plata, Md., Sept. 18, during the archdiocese’s annual “Ride for Vocations.” Some participants rode 100 miles to promote vocations to the priesthood and religious life. —CNS photo/Andrew Biraj, Catholic Standard)

been the volunteer organizer of the bike ride, said the 138 registrants were the most ever for the event. It began years ago with a group of priests and seminarians who rode as a team. Initially they joined a ride known as the Seagull Century, based out of Maryland’s Salisbury University, she said. Another year, they joined the Southern Maryland Fall Century, also known as the Indian Head 100. But recently, the Ride for Vocations became its own event.

Mourning, prayer, rebuilding follow tornadoes MAYFIELD, Ky. -- Mourning, prayer and a resolve to rebuild shattered lives, homes and businesses in Mayfield followed one of the most powerful twisters in U.S. history that leveled the city of 10,000 in western Kentucky overnight Dec. 1. The Bluegrass State was the worst hit as numerous devastating tornadoes traveled across it and its neighboring states of Illinois, Tennessee, Arkansas and Missouri, leveling entire communities. As of early Dec. 16, at least 90 people were confirmed dead, but rescue efforts were still underway in Mayfield and elsewhere. Twenty of those who perished were in Kentucky, and six died when a roof collapsed at an Amazon warehouse in Illinois. As members of two of Mayfield’s faith congregations came together to pray Dec. 12 amid rubble -- piles of brick, metal and glass -- prayers for their city and all of those affected by the ferocious mid-December twisters came from far and wide, including from Pope Francis and the U.S. Catholic bishops, and from close to home -- Bishop William F. Medley of Owensboro, whose diocese covers western Kentucky. A papal telegram conveyed by Cardinal Pietro Parolin,

Search and rescue teams speak during a planning meeting in downtown Dawson Springs, Ky., Dec. 13, 2021, to look for trapped residents after tornadoes ripped through several states. — CNS photo/Jon Cherry, Reuters

Vatican secretary of state, said Pope Francis “was saddened to learn of the devastating impact of the tornadoes” in the Midwest and the South.

DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

Jim Cavnar, president of Cross Catholic Outreach in Boca Raton, Fla., presents a Box of Joy to a girl in Haiti in this undated photo. U.S. Catholic parishes, schools and groups pack the boxes with small gifts for children in several impoverished nations and during Box of Joy Collection Week Nov. 6-14, the boxes were dropped off at various U.S. collection points to be shipped to the children by Cross Catholic Outreach.

Bicyclists pedal, pray to promote vocations

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

WASHINGTON -- As Christmas approaches, it is important to remember the true essence of the season. In a materialistic world, people often want to give and receive the trendiest gifts, but Cross Catholic Outreach in Boca Raton, Fla., likes to remind people of the importance of service and compassion during the Christmas season. It does just that with its annual “Box of Joy” program. Box of Joy encourages people nationwide to give back to less fortunate children in countries around the world. Parishes and schools band together to pack boxes full of toys, school supplies, essentials such as soap and toothpaste, rosaries and “The Story of Jesus” in recipients’ native languages. “People jump at a chance to serve God by packing and sending help and hope,” said Jim Cavnar, who has been president of Cross Catholic Outreach since its founding in 2001. “If you could see the faces of the kids on the receiving end, you would see we are not just packing toys and supplies; we are boxing up and shipping happiness!” Cross Catholic Outreach encourages all types of groups to participate and donate to Box of Joy: dioceses, individual parishes, schools, and even families. The website boxofjoy.org gives a list of help-

Compiled from the Catholic News Service

WORLD & NATION

Nuns whittle away at country’s truancy rate

WORLD & NATION

6 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 2021

Vocations Ministry speakers discuss ways to discern paths in life By Christina Leslie Correspondent SOMERSET — What is a vocation? How can a parish community assist its members to discern God’s call to holiness in their own lives? A Nov. 13 workshop presented by the St. Matthias Parish Vocations Ministry offered participants the tools with which to answer these important spiritual questions. Held at the conclusion of National Vocations Awareness Week, it asserted that God’s call might best be answered via mindful, intentional prayer and service. Father Abraham Orapankal, pastor of the parish, explained that the search for a vocation should not be a solitary task, but rather a communitywide goal. “We always talk about vocations to the priesthood and religious life, which are important, but there is a need for other vocations,” Father Orapankal said. “Praying for vocations is important because the Church needs more disciples to serve. Holiness is not limited to martyrdom; the call to holiness is given to each human.”

Above, Msgr. Seamus F. Brennan, senior priest at St. Matthas Parish, Somerset, gives the keynote address. Above center, some of the participants watched via livestream. Below, Msgr. Brennan, Father Orapankal and Ekhelar take a break.

Inhis keynote address, Msgr. Sea- bride bedecked with jewels,” Msgr. mus F. Brennan, senior priest at the Brennan said. “Worship of God is not parish, said, “Vocation is a total com- a heavy blanket. Christians, the living plants of his Church, mitment to a way of bring forth life we have chosen, “The Lord has bestowed should not just about a lifethe fruit of devotion, style. It is a desire to on the Church every- each one in accord with his character get to know Christ more, to commit our thing you need to grow and station.” St. Matthias palives to him.” towards holiness: the Pope Francis’ rishioners, all active gifts of Scripture, the in their faith com2018 apostolic letter shared their “Gaudate et Exsulsacraments, holy places, munity, unique vocations tate: On the Call to Holiness in Today’s stories and encourliving communities, aged the attendees World,” maintains people in any walk witness of the saints, and to discern their own of life, whether mar- the multifaceted beauty paths to service in the Church. ried, single, consethat proceeds from crated or ordained, is Judith Ekhelar, a called to holiness. native of Ghana, disGod’s love like a bride closed her childhood “The Lord has bestowed on the bedecked with jewels.” - desire to become a religious sister. Church everything —Msgr. Seamus F. Brennan Today, the married you need to grow towards holiness: the mother of three finds gifts of Scripture, the sacraments, holy joy in the parish’s bereavement minplaces, living communities, witness of istry. “When I meet with a grieving the saints, and the multifaceted beauty that proceeds from God’s love like a family, I feel blessed I am able to be

of service to someone through the Church,” Ekhelar said. “I will continue to build his kingdom here on earth.” Hong Kong-born Julia Fung found inspiration from a religious sister in her Catholic elementary school. She now leads, over Zoom, the parish’s Bible study class. “People have shown me God’s love. I challenge you to go out and influence someone else,” said Fung. “We are all a full-time follower of Christ.” Joseph and Nina Mancuso, former St. Matthias parishioners, joined the workshop via teleconference from the west coast. Despite no formal media training, the couple took the risk to begin a podcast and Bible study group over Zoom. “I have an intimate relationship with the Holy Spirit,” Joseph asserted. “God gives us the grace for the journey.” “As we grow in holiness, our vocations will be discerned,” Father Orapankal concluded. “The idea of vocations must be more inclusive to all people, otherwise it is too narrow a definition.”

Above, among the speakers were Judith Ekhelar, a member of St. Matthias Parish and married mother of three discusses her desire to become a religious sister growing up in Ghana; and, below, Father Abraham Orapankal, pastor. — Marlo Williamson photos

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8 OUR DIOCESE

Parish, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen team up on flood relief Continued from page 3

“It is something that we should do and will continue to do. It is what we as a Church do, not only what we do on the parish level, but also what we as Catholics are called to do,” Father Slaby said of the local Church’s response to the disaster. “So, there is a constant ﬂow of prayers and help.” The work of response and recovery is enduring but it is not done alone, said the pastor. He expressed his gratitude for the many who volunteered and assisted in the relief efforts, helping to provide housing, clothing, food, financial resources and procedural guidance, in which Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen has played a large role. With too many names to individually account for, it is those same staff members and volunteers — those in Manville and the many others who, like them, served those suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida — who were honored collectively with the Spirit of Saint Francis Award, presented as part of the 2021 Champions for Catholic Charities virtual gala which premiered on Oct. 28. From when the rain first began to fall, to when the full extent of the flood damage could be seen in the daylight,

Father Stanislaw Slaby, pastor, Christ the Redeemer Parish, Manville, surveys the damaged properties of neighboring homes, some of which volunteers and parishioners helped to clean and clear following the historic flooding Sept. 1. and now even months later as the recovery continues, Catholic Charities’ executive director Julio Coto said he and his staff are there to aid the needs. To date, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen has helped over 350 families affected by Hurricane Ida. “Many of the communities in our diocese were devastated. Our staff reached out to all the parishes and we went out there and started giving gift

DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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CARING

Bozena Wawrzyszko, a member of Christ the Redeemer Parish, Manville, leaves donations with Father Stanislaw Slaby, pastor, telling him she felt compelled to help “because life is so bad for so many people who lost everything. I didn’t lose anything, so I am lucky. When you drive around and you see what people lost, they lost everything. They were working their whole life and in one minute they lost everything.” — Gerald Wutkowski Jr. photo

cards, since they’re going to need almost everything. And now we’re making an assessment of what the future needs are: do they need rental assistance; are they going to need counseling,” Coto said during the virtual gala. “Recovery is going to take months and we’re still there now. We’re there for whatever situation arises.” Held virtually again this year, the gala’s documentary-style video follows the story of Scott Smith, a 17-year veteran of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen. Initially a client of Catholic Charities, after the death of his first wife led him down a path of alcoholism and homelessness, Smith now serves as a resident attendant at the Ozanam Inn Men’s Shelter in New Brunswick, operated by Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen. Smith’s story, though told through the lens of his past, highlights the needs which Catholic Charities works to address and tend to every day in the present, including those needs now being felt by the flood victims of Hurricane Ida. With footage of Ida’s devastation rolling throughout the Champions for Catholic Charities virtual gala video, “the 2021 Spirit of Saint Francis Award is presented to all volunteers in recognition of their selfless commitment and dedication to the betterment of all people — especially in service to those suffering in the aftermath of Hurricane Ida,” according to a statement in the video. Addressing the virtual audience, Bishop James F. Checchio said, “We are especially remembering and honoring, with the Spirit of Saint Francis

Award, so many people throughout our diocese who have responded to needs, to their brother and sister in need, during this pandemic and during Hurricane Ida, where the needs became even greater amongst our people in our four beautiful counties. I am so grateful for them and our awardees and for their generosity in responding.” Listing the many services provided by Catholic Charities in the counties of the Diocese of Metuchen — Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon, and Warren — the bishop said, “It’s all because of you that they’re able to do all these different things and that we’re able to make Christ present in these counties, to respond to people in need.” Before concluding, Bishop Checchio recalled the words of Jesus: “Whatever you do for the least of my brothers and sisters, you do for me.” “That’s what Catholic Charities is about, it’s loving God with all of our heart, soul, and strength, by loving our brother and sister in front of us in need,” said Bishop Checchio. “Let’s love the Lord our God with all of our heart, soul, and strength by contributing what we can to the works of Catholic Charities, to helping the army of volunteers, who day in and day out, love the brother and sister in front of them who is in need, thanks to your generosity. It brings us all together in this great work. It brings us all together in loving the Lord our God.” To watch the full 2021 Champions for Catholic Charities virtual gala or to donate, please visit: diometuchen. org/champions. Smith is director, diocesan Ofﬁce of Communications & Public relations

OUR DIOCESE

the relic from parishioners Michael and Jennifer Lombardi and their twin grandsons, Giancarlo and Michael. The bishop concluded the ceremoEDISON — The precisely cut, gleaming white marble slabs gracing the sacristy ny by saying, “Lord, may the prayers floors and altar envisioned and installed of the Blessed Virgin Mary and all the by modern architecture and construction saints make our prayers acceptable to companies have transformed St. Helena you. “May this altar be the place where Church into a more visually appealing the great mysteries house of worship. of redemption are acIn addition, hand“The renovation complished, a place carved angels and a where your people ofstatue of St. Joseph now exceeded fer their gifts and unlooks out over the pews mine and the fold their good intenfrom the sacristy walls, tions throughout their while a new heating and community’s prayers and echo every air-conditioning system expectation. The meaning of their faith silently does its work and devotion. Grant more efficiently. parishioners of St. this all for Christ. However, it took Amen.” an ancient link to the Helena are very After Mass, Father Church’s past to formally complete the proud of their church.” Anthony M. Sirianni, transformation. A first- —Father Anthony M. Sirianni said, “As pastor of St. Helena’s [since 2008], class relic (a sliver of it was one of my proudbone) of St. Helena, mother of Emperor Constantine the est moments to have the bishop celGreat and namesake of the parish, was ebrate Mass in our updated sanctuary.” Among the concelbrants were Fareturned from its temporary reliquary and secured in the altar by Bishop James ther Sirianni’s brother, Sam, a monsiF. Checchio at a Mass of Thanksgiving gnor who is rector of co-Cathedral St. Robert Bellarmine, Freehold, and St. Nov. 20, feast of Christ the King. Church lore says that when St. Hel- Mary of the Assumption, Trenton. The plans for the renovation were ena, an empress of the Roman Empire who died around 330, returned to Rome done by the liturgical design firm Lawfrom Jerusalem in 327, she brought rence Hoy Studios, Westport, Conn. parts of the True Cross back with her. The renovation was done because the It can still be seen in her palace, which 56-year-old church needed to be upwas converted to the Basilica of the dated and the parish community was looking forward to putting the taberHoly Cross in Jerusalem. In his opening remarks, Bishop nacle in the center of the sanctuary and Checchio said, “The church looks beau- a statue of St. Joseph added, said Father tiful and you have a lot to be proud of. Sirianni. The sanctuary was redone with It is an honor to be here.” In the ceremony to place the relic about 3,000 square feet of Italian back in the altar, the litany of saints marble for the sanctuary and tile floor, was sung as Bishop Checchio accepted Hoy said. There were about 200 large By Chris Donahue Associate Editor

Above, Bishop James F. Checchio raises the chalice during the consecration at Mass at St. Helena Church Nov. 20. In a cermony earlier in the liturgy, the bishop placed a first-class relic (a sliver of bone) of St. Helena (that had been in a temporary reliquary) back into the altar. Right, Bishop Checchio poses with a family after Mass. — Chris Donahue photos

marble pieces and 2,000 square feet of large tile. The old floor was carpeted. The angels and the statue of St. Joseph are made of oak, a traditional wood used in churches, Hoy noted, and hand-carved in Spain. Father Sirianni said the lighting and sound system also had to be updated, which allows for Masses to be livestreamed. “From a functional and aesthetic perspective, we now have an updated sanctuary that follows all the liturgical elements to celebrate the Holy Eucharist,” he continued. “The renovation exceeded mine and the community’s expectation. The parishioners of St. Helena are very proud of their church.” During the renovation, Mass was celebrated in the meeting room at St. Helena School and outdoors on Sundays at 10:30 a.m. Funerals and baptisms were celebrated at a nearby parish. Despite having to navigate the project through the challenges of the COVID-19 pandemic, Father Sirianni said the parish was able to raise about $1.6 million in pledges. “We had a campaign committee and we thanked all the parishioners who were inconvenienced by the renovation,

but they are very happy with the way the church looks now.” Construction began in June and because of the pandemic, a delay in the delivery of some materials pushed its completion back a couple months, said Father Sirianni. St. Helena Parish serves the spiritual and pastor needs of 1,131 registered families. Its Blue Ribbon-winning school serves children in Pre-K to eighth grade. Joseph DiPaola, a Fourth-Degree member and Grand Knight of Knights of Columbus Council 6571, St. Helena Parish and St. John Vianney Parish, Colonia, has been a member of St. Helena’s for 32 years. His three daughters graduated from St Helena School. “We [parishioners] discussed how things [the renovation] were going to turn out, but it is another thing when you actually come in and see the end product. When you first come into the church it is very moving,” he said.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

Bishop James F. Checchio incenses the newly-renovated altar at St. Helena Church assisted by Deacon Danilo C. San Jose. The sanctuary was redone with about 3,000 square feet of Italian marble and 2,000 square feet of large tile. The lighting and sound system was also updated, which allows for Masses to be livestreamed.

Return of ancient relic completes restoration of St. Helena Church

10 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 2021

Long-awaited renovation to 102-year-old house of worship finished By Christina Leslie Correspondent PERTH AMBOY — On the eve of the feast day to commemorate the Virgin Mary’s Immaculate Conception, a church dedicated to a modern-day saint celebrated the conclusion of a renovation more than two decades in the making. Bishop James F. Checchio presided at a Vigil Mass for the Marian feast in the St. John Paul II Parish, St. Stephen worship site Dec. 7. At the Mass, he also blessed the newly-installed granite flooring, which gleamed beneath his feet, as well as a bronze plaque containing the names of two individuals of Polish descent instrumental in raising money for its completion. The present church, which dates back to 1919 and serves English, Spanish, Hungarian and Polish congregations, had begun a major renovation, including a restoration of the exterior and installation of stained glass windows, which spanned two pastorates: that of Father John Stec and the parish’s current shepherd, Redemptorist Father Slawomir Romanowski. Though delivered about two decades ago, the granite blocks intended for its floor and imported from Italy were not installed until all the money was available. Donations of nearly $1 million by the late Barbara Piasecka Johnson and Danuta Wyszyński enabled the project’s completion, which took place over the course of about five months in the spring and summer. The granite blocks, enough to fill the interior of the 450-seat church, were arranged in a cross shape upon which was inlaid the coat of arms of their patron, St. John Paul II. In his homily, Bishop Checchio reflected upon the ways Mary still aids us today, through the grace God gave her to abstain from both original and personal sin, to draw close to her Son. “She is blessed among women,” he said. “[Her] spiritual blessings require a courageous dedication to God, and a firm resolve from her heart to overcome all temptations. Mary becomes a model for us. We have to be willing to turn to God to overcome temptations as she did, and cooperate with God’s grace.” Blessing the plaque bearing the names of the project’s two benefactors, the bishop continued, “Lord, you are the source of every blessing and you look with delight on the work of your people. Draw near, we pray, to those whose sacrifices of time, talent and treasure provided this new flooring. As your people gather in this place, grant that may they also strive to be transformed into the likeness of your Son.”

Top left, Bishop James F. Checchio (center), poses with Redemptorist Father Slawomir Romanowski, pastor, St. John Paul II Parish (far right) and members of St. Stephen worship site after Mass Dec. 7. Top right and below left, sections of the new granite floor are shown. Above, Bishop Checchio is joined by concelebrants of the Mass during the consecration. Right, Bishop Checchio and Father Romanowski pose near a bronze plaque that contains the names of the benefactors who paid for the floor. In a ceremony during the liturgy, Bishop Checchio also blessed the newly-installed floor and plaque. — John Batkowski photos

Polish-born women paved way for new floor Danuta Magryta Wyszynski was a major contributor to the funding for the floor installation. Father Slawomir Romanowski promised Wyszynski that he would have the floor installed as soon as all of the money needed to cover the cost of the installation was secured. Wyszynski, a member St. John Paul II Parish, died Nov. 4, 2019. She was born in Sitno, Poland, and came to the United States when she was 17. She studied art and painting and began painting portraits, later she painted landscapes. Wyszynski enjoyed helping people who came from Poland adjust to their new life in America. She was very philanthropic, too. Barbara Piasecka Johnson, of Johnson and Johnson, had donated the granite 20 years ago and it had been in storage since then as money was being donated to pay for the installation. She died April 4, 2013. Johnson was born

and raised in Poland before World War II and earned a master’s degrees in art history and philosophy. She came to the United States in 1968 and first worked for the John Seward Johnson Sr. family as a cook and chambermaid. Years later, she became his third wife. She was not a parishioner of St. John Paul II bu wast friends with Wyszynski. — Sue Getz

Right, the plaque reads “The Floor in St. Stephen’s Church has been installed through the dedication, kindness and generosity of Barbara Piasecka Johnson, Danuta Wyszyński Hieronim Wyszński. Thank you. 2021”

11 OUR DIOCESE

Toy Story The Respect Life Club at Mount Saint Mary Academy, Watchung, gathered after dismissal Nov. 18 to make sensory toys for students at Crossroads School, Westfield. During the project, Michelle Kovach, theology teacher, discussed the importance of respecting the dignity of people living with disabilities. Crossroads School aids children from ages three to 14 years of age with Autism Spectrum Disorder, focusing on the development of sensory integration, communication, socialization and problem-solving skills. — Michelle H. Daino photo

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen

ANNUAL RESPECT LIFE MASS & PRESENTATION OF PRO-VITA AWARDS

January 14, 2022 • 5:00 PM Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi 32 ELM AVENUE, METUCHEN

Celebrant and Homilist Most Reverend James F. Checchio

JCD, MBA, Bishop of Metuchen

We celebrate God’s gift of Human Life and the 2022 Pro-Vita awardees

Rosanda Grau

Co-Founder of Inspire Family Life Center, Warren Our Lady of Victories Parish, Sayreville

Deacon Bob and Elaine Yunker

Volunteer Consultants at Life Choices Resource Center, Metuchen, Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen and St. Helena Parish, Edison For more information contact human.life.and.dignity@diometuchen.org or call the Oﬃce of Human Life and Dignity at 732-562-1990, ext. 1629 or 1543.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

Join us as we commemorate the anniversary of the Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade which legalized abortion in the United States

12 OUR DIOCESE

Funeral Mass celebrated Dec. 11 for former pastor, parochial vicar Father Vincent C. Cornejo, a retired St. John the Evangelist, Naga City, by priest of the diocese who was its oldest, Archbishop Pedro Santos. In addition, to his faith being nurdied Dec. 6 in Massachusetts. Father Cornejo would have celebrated his 95th tured at home, Father Cornejo cited stories of an uncle who was a priest to birthday Dec. 18 enter the priesthood. His most recent “I didn’t take appoint- Two of his sisters assignment was pastor, Our Lady of ments. I was available became Daughters of Charity. Mount Carmel Parish, Father Cornejo Woodbridge (now a day or night . . . People served in various worship site of St. just came to see me parishes in the PhilAnthony of Padua Parish, Port Reading). or ask me to see them ippines, then in 1977, continued his minFather Cornejo at the hospital. I also istry in the United was born in Naga City, Philippines, helped out with the . . . States. After his arrival to Meliton and Luisa Concepcion, He Filipino Apostolate and in New Jersey, Father served two and his three sibwas a chaplain with the Cornejo terms as parochial lings joined in daily prayer, including the Knights of Columbus. vicar at St. Mary Parish, Perth Amboy recitation of Evening That’s what we (now a worship site Prayer, the Angelus, of John Paul II Para rosary and the Tripriests do.” ish); St. Joseph Parsagio in honor of the —Father Vincent Cornejo ish, Keyport; Holy Most Holy Trinity. Spirit Parish, Perth After an eduAmboy (now a worcation in Catholic schools in the Philippines, Father ship site of Good Shepherd Parish); Cornejo entered Holy Rosary Semi- St. Joseph Parish, North Plainfield, nary, Naga City. He completed a and Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Pisdecade of study in philosophy, theol- cataway. During his service, he earned a ogy and humanities, and was ordained March 17, 1956, at the Cathedral of master’s degree in divinity at Immacu-

late Conception Seminary, Darlington, in 1981, and was incardinated into the Diocese of Metuchen in 1983. Father Cornejo served two years as administrator, then pastor of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish for 12 years before his retirement in June 2004. In a post-retirement telephone interview from his home in Peabody last spring, he recalled that period with joy. “I didn’t take appointments. I was available day or night,” Father Cornejo said. “People just came to see me or ask me to see them at the hospital. I also helped out with the [diocesan] Filipino Apostolate and was a chaplain with the Knights of Columbus. That’s what we priests do.” Father Cornejo named his family, the Jesuit and Vincentian priests and Sisters of Charity who taught him in high school as his spiritual inspirations. He added that his appreciation of the Mass deepened when he assisted at a Mass celebrated by St. John Paul II in his private chapel at the Vatican in 1987. When first arriving in Massachusetts, Father Cornejo offered Mass for the Carmelite Sisters of Danvers

and volunteered twice weekly in a local hospital, but, he noted, advanced age caused him to step back from these duties. A funeral Mass was celebrated Dec. 11 at St. John the Baptist Church, Peabody, Mass. Interment was at St. Mary Cemetery, Salem, Mass. Arrangements were handled by Conway Cahill-Brodeur Funeral Home, Peabody.

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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OUR DIOCESE

Above, clergy and parishioners gather to pray for the repose of the soul of Deacon Herminio Rivera Sr., who died Nov. 15, at a funeral Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Church. Right, Deacon Rivera is pictured in his alb that he wore for liturgical ministry. He was laid to rest at Resurrection Cemetery, Piscataway. — Marlo Williamson and John Batkowski photos

Above center, Deacon Stephen F. Kern, director, diocesan Office of the Diaconate, sprinkles holy water on the casket that holds the remains of Deacon Angel Perez (above right) after a funeral Mass at Our Lady of Fatima Chuch Dec. 8. Below left, pallbearers carry Deacon Perez’ casket out of the church. and Mausoleum, Woodbridge. Arrangements were handled by Gustav J. Novak Funeral Home. In lieu of flowers, please make donations in honor of Deacon Perez to St.

Jude Children’s Research Hospital. 501 St. Jude Place, Memphis, TN 38105. Online donations www.stjude.org or to Our Lady of Fatima R.C. Church. 380 Smith St. Perth Amboy, NJ 08861.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

our consolation.” Deacon Rivera was born in Utuado, Puerto Rico to the late Basilisa and PERTH AMBOY — The faith com- Ramon Rivera. He attended Utuado munity of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Elementary School in his native Puerto which celebrated the 50th anniversary of Rico and earned a New Jersey General its dedication three months ago, recently Education Development (GED) diploma lost two servants of its community within at Perth Amboy High School. He worked as a machine operator, then for the state two weeks. Deacon Herminio Rivera Sr., 78, of New Jersey as a multi-dwelling indied Nov. 15, while Deacon Angel P. spector for code enforcement from 1997 until his retirement in 2013. Perez, 91, died Dec. 1. He and his wife, Irene, were parents “These past weeks were tough on the community as we lost two deacons,” to Maribel, Diane, Daniel and Herminio Jr.; grandparents to eight, said Claretian Father Gilles Njobam, pastor, “The Lord chose to call and a great grandson. Deacon Rivera reOur Lady of Fatima his faithful servants ceived his diaconal trainParish, a predominantly Hispanic parish. during this festive mo- ing in the College of St. Elizabeth, Morristown, “Both had been very instrumental in ment in the parish [50th and was ordained June 17, 1989, by Bishop Edbuilding the commuanniversary] and also ward T. Hughes at the nity since the 1960s Cathedral of St. Francis close to Thanksgiving until they decided of Assisi, Metuchen. to serve the Lord as Day, so we are grateful At Our Lady of Fatideacons in the 1980s. They worked so hard, to God for sending these ma Parish, he ministered at baptisms and funerand were capable of striking a balance good men into the lives als, took Communion to the sick, and served as between family, work of thousands of our director of the Legion of and Church.” Father Njobam parishioners throughout Mary; director of lectors and extraordinary minissaid although the these past years.” ters of holy Communion, deacons had some —Claretian Father Gilles and director of Spanish health challenges in Curia. the past years, “no Njobam, pastor, Our Lady of On Nov. 28, 2011, one expected them to Fatima Parish Deacon Rivera was one leave so soon because of 93 recipients of the dithey were so loved and cherished by both the parishioners and ocesan Regina Nostra Medal in honor of his dedication and service to his parish their friends and family.” Noting the Sept. 19 celebration of and the diocese. A funeral Mass was celebrated the parish’s 50th anniversary was such a joyous event, he continued, “The Lord Nov. 19 for Deacon Rivera at Our Lady chose to call his faithful servants during of Fatima Church Nov. 19 by Father this festive moment in the parish and Njobam and concelebrated by parochial also close to the Thanksgiving Day, so vicars of the parish. Deacon Rivera was predeceased by we are grateful to God for sending these good men into the lives of thousands of his wife (2019) and daughter, Maribel our parishioners throughout these past (2021). Entombment was at Resurrection Cemetery, Piscataway. years.” Arrangements were handled by The pastor professed a strong bond with the two servants of the Church, re- Flynn and Son Funeral Home, Fords. Deacon Perez was born to the late inforced by frequent visits to them with the holy Eucharist even during strict Guan and Eulalia Perez in San SebasCOVID-19 pandemic restrictions. Dur- tian, Puerto Rico. A lifelong resident of ing a recent interview with “The Catho- Perth Amboy, he worked as supervisor lic Spirit,” Father Njobam reflected on of the maintenance department for that the many years of service of Deacon city’s Board of Education for 25 years. He and his wife, Alejandrina, were Rivera and Deacon Perez with a mix of sorrow and certainty in their eternal married in 1953 and were parents to two children and three grandchildren. reward. Deacon Perez was ordained June “Their faith and enthusiasm were so encouraging, their friendship and 2, 1984, at Our Lady of Peace Parish, concern for community meant a lot and Fords. Officially retiring after more than the testimony of their lives will live 30 years of active diaconate service, he forever in the minds and hearts of the nonetheless assisted at the Sunday 9 people of Perth Amboy, especially in a.m. Mass and visited sick parishioners Our Lady of Fatima Parish where they in the hospital. His funeral Mass was celebrated served tirelessly and wholeheartedly,” he said. “The community will miss them Dec. 8 at Our Lady of Fatima Church. dearly, but the hope of resurrection is Entombment was at St. James Cemetery By Christina Leslie Correspondent

Parish mourns loss of devout deacons, ‘enthusiastic’ servants

14 OUR DIOCESE

Parishioners in Eastern Catholic Church welcome prelate at Mass By Katherine Massopust Editor’s note: This stoey was first published in the Dec. 8 bulletin of Assumption of Mary Parish, Perth Amboy. It is being reprinted with permission and was edited for space reasons. On Nov. 28, Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak visited the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Perth Amboy. Father Ivan Turyk, pastor, and Deacon Paul Makar and parish trustees welcomed the archbishop at the door of the church. Two children welcomed him with bread (on traditional Ukrainian cloth), salt, and flowers. This long-standing Ukrainian tradition symbolizes eternity (bread) and hospitality (salt). Father Turyk, who was raised in the village of Sniatynka, near Drohobych, Ukraine, presented the archbishop with a cross. Archbishop Gudziak and Father Turyk celebrated the divine liturgy with the assistance of Deacon Makar, Deacon Volodymyr Radko and several altar servers. Among those in attendance were more than 55 nuns, including Mother Mary of the Immaculate Conception Ambriogio, provincial superior of the Sisters Servants of the Lord, and the Virgin of Matara SSVM; and Sister Veronica, who will begin their ministry at the parish. In his homily, the archbishop focused on the Gospel (Luke 13:10-17), which tells of a woman who had been stooped over for 18 years. When the woman entered the synagogue, Jesus called her over and healed

her. This made the synagogue leader jealous, so he complained because Jesus healed on the Sabbath. Jesus calls him a hypocrite, stating that the woman has a right to be healed after 18 years of being bound by her disfigurement. The archbishop stated, “The American slang would be, ‘Give me a break!’” “…Religion comes from the Roman (Latin) word ligare – to join [reconnect)]. Jesus wants our heart. He gives us the love of God. Jesus is saying, ‘Give me a break! You tell me about rules of the Sabbath. The woman has been in pain for 18 years.’” Speaking about women religious, the archbishop said, “There is no more radical counterculture movement in the 20th (and 21st) century — when a woman becomes a nun. You have in your order more than 50 women when everything is crying money, power, sex — you are obedience, poverty, chastity. We pray for you, sisters. We have great trust in God and the community. We pray through your ministry in Perth Amboy that you have many vocations.” At the end of the divine liturgy, Archbishop Gudziak blessed Sister Veronica, a superior of the convent in Perth Amboy, and Sister Maria for the beginning of their ministry in Perth Amboy. The nuns in attendance sang the prayer, “Hail Mary,” in old Slovanic. A reception at Assumption Catholic School cafeteria, featured food prepared by parishioners and ladies from the Ukrainian National Women’s League of America (UNWLA) branch 135. Lissette Shumny, principal, Assumption Catholic School and several students presented Archbishop Borys, Father Turyk, Mother Mary and Sister

Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak, back row, center, and Father Ivan Turyk, at end of middle row, pose for a photo with clergy and altar servers from the Ukrainian Catholic Church of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary and visitinig nuns after Mass. Father Uryk is pastor of the parish. Veronica with flowers and a song. After lunch, some of the sisters who attended the service got up on stage to sing. One spiritual hymn was, “Down by the Water Side We Meet,” while the postulates sang, “I Saw the Light.” Assumption Parish serves the Ukrainian Byzantine Catholic community in the Middlesex/Northern Monmouth County, according to its website. The parish belongs to the Byzantine Catholic Church, an Eastern Catholic Church that has its own rite or liturgical traditions. Along with the Roman Catholic Church, the Byzantine Church is in full communion with Rome and is under the spiritual leadership of the Pope of

Metropolitan Archbishop Borys Gudziak addresses the congregation. He serves as Archeparch of Philadelphia for Ukrainians and Metropolitan for the Ukrainian Catholic Church in the United States. — photos courtesy of Assumption Catholic Parish

Rome. The parish belongs to the Ukrainian Catholic Archeparchy of Philadelphia.

DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Saint Peter’s expands treatment for patients with cardiac disease NEW BRUNSWICK — Saint Peter’s University Hospital, a member of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, has received approval by the New Jersey Department of Health (DOH) for the addition of elective angioplasty/elective percutaneous coronary intervention (PCI) as a licensed service provided. Gov. Phil Murphy signed legislation (A1176) earlier this year that addressed a longstanding lack of licensed angioplasty facilities at locations that were not licensed cardiac surgery centers. The new legislation allowed Saint Peter’s and other qualified facilities to apply for licensing approval to perform elective angioplasty. Angioplasty is a decades-proven procedure that increases life-sustaining blood flow to the heart when coronary artery disease has blocked the vessels that feed it. Guided by sophisticated imaging, surgeons thread a thin, flexible tube through the bloodstream to deliver powerful intervention, right at the site of the blockage. Saint Peter’s was previously licensed to only perform diagnostic cardiac cath-

eterization and emergency angioplasty, but like other similarly licensed hospitals was not permitted, based on previous regulations, to perform angioplasty on an elective basis. Leslie D. Hirsch, president and chief executive officer of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, has been a staunch advocate pushing for Saint Peter’s ability to perform elective angioplasty, especially because the hospital has long had approval to perform diagnostic cardiac catheterization and emergency angioplasty. His advocacy focused on increasing immediate access to advanced cardiac care for patients in New Jersey. Saint Peter’s approval as a provider of elective angioplasty was based on a variety of factors including supporting materials reviewed by the DOH, as well as a recommendation by the Department’s Survey and Field Operations program, which conducted an on-site inspection of Saint Peter’s cardiac catheterization suites. “Saint Peter’s has demonstrated the ability to safely perform diagnostic cardiac catheterizations and emergency

angioplasties that could save lives, and now that we can perform elective angioplasty, we have expanded the scope of diagnostic and treatment capabilities for those patients with cardiac disease,” said Hirsch. “I am grateful for the longstanding support of the cardiologists who practice at Saint Peter’s and because of our collaborative efforts, our patients will be better served by not having to go elsewhere for elective angioplasty. Our physicians and skilled clinical staff are highly capable, dedicated, and ready to provide quality, accessible care without delay. For us, it’s always been about our patients, affording them more immediate access to care at their hospital of choice. “My appreciation is also extended to Gov. Murphy and Commissioner of Health Judith Persichilli and especially to the leadership of the Middlesex County legislative delegation led by Assembly Speaker Craig Coughlin and Senator Joseph Vitale, without whom this legislation would not have become a reality.” Saint Peter’s University Hospital is a 478-bed acute-care teaching hospital sponsored by the Diocese of Metuchen.

Leslie D. Hirsch Saint Peter’s, which received its sixth consecutive designation as a Magnet® hospital for nursing excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020, is a state-designated children’s hospital and a regional perinatal center, and is a regional specialist in diabetes, gastroenterology, head and neck surgery, oncology, orthopedics, and women’s services.

with the ASGE Endoscopy Unit Rec- personnel dedicated to infection control ognition Program requirements, we and prevention. have demonstrated our commitment “We are proud to acknowledge to delivering quality and safety as an these endoscopy units through our integral part of our unit policies, cre- Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program dentialing, staff trainfor their commitment to ing and competency Endoscopy is per- promoting the highest assessment and quality standards of safety and formed in Saint improvement activities. quality,” said Dr. Luke“The timing of this Peter’s Endoscopy john Day, chair, ASGE recognition is espeQuality Assurance in and Same Day cially meaningful given Endoscopy Committee. the additional safety ensuring infection Services suite by “By protocols required durcontrol principles are ing the COVID-19 panspecially-trained adhered to, continually demic, again reassuring assessing the competenphysicians using cy of staff, and monipatients that should diagnostic testing be the most current toring patient satisfacnecessary, Saint Peter’s tion, ASGE-recognized technology to has a rigorous system units contribute to the of protocols and best confidence in diagnose and treat public’s practices in place to enendoscopy, a life-saving sure patient safety at all technology.” diseases of the times.” ASGE is the profesgastrointestinal To be recognized by sion’s leader in setting ASGE, a unit, through a standards of excellence tract. peer-reviewed applicain endoscopy through tion process, must attest its safety guidelines and to the continued competence of all staff the training of its members so that relative to their roles, demonstrate the patients receive the best and safest adoption of unit policies speciﬁc to ongo- care possible. The Society continually ing assessment of performance relative to reinforces the importance of quality key quality indicators, and attest that the among its members through member unit has established infrastructure and communications, such as emails and

newsletters, and its courses, including “Improving Quality and Safety in Your Endoscopy Unit.” The Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Saint Peter’s offers expertise in the diagnosis and treatment of a wide spectrum of disorders of the esophagus, stomach, small intestine, colon, as well as the pancreas, liver and biliary tract including heartburn, Barrett’s disease, swallowing disorders, ulcer disease, celiac disease, pancreatitis and pancreatic cancer, bile duct and gallbladder disease, Crohn’s disease and ulcerative colitis, viral hepatitis, fatty liver disease and alcohol-related liver diseases. Endoscopy is performed in Saint Peter’s Endoscopy and Same Day Services suite by specially-trained physicians using the most current technology to diagnose and treat diseases of the gastrointestinal tract. Using flexible, thin tubes called endoscopes, physicians are able to access the digestive tract without incisions. Thousands of minimally invasive endoscopic procedures are performed each year at Saint Peter’s, including upper endoscopy, colonoscopy and small bowel capsule. To learn more or to make an appointment, visit saintpetershcs.com/gastroenterology

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NEW BRUNSWICK — The American Society for Gastrointestinal Endoscopy (ASGE), a leading gastrointestinal medical society, recently recognied the Endoscopy Unit at Saint Peter’s University Hospital as part of its program specifically dedicated to promoting quality in endoscopy in all settings where it is practiced in the United States. The ASGE Endoscopy Unit Recognition Program honors endoscopy units that have demonstrated a commitment to patient safety and quality in endoscopy as evidenced by meeting the program’s rigorous criteria, which includes following the ASGE guidelines on privileging, quality assurance, endoscope reprocessing, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) infection control guidelines and ensuring endoscopy staff competency1. Saint Peter’s Endoscopy Unit is one of more than 600 endoscopy units to be granted the recognition since 2009. According to Dr. Arkady Broder, chief, Division of Gastroenterology and Hepatology at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, “We are honored to be recognized by ASGE for our efforts to enhance quality and safety in our Endoscopy Unit. Through ongoing education and continued compliance

Unit at diocese-sponsored hospital honored for quality care, safety

We’re Accepting New Admissions Lambertville Link

Members of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Lambertville, who participated in the annual “Carrera Antorcha Guadalupana” relay run, pose for a photo. Lambertville was one of the legs in the journey of the Torch of Our Lady of Guadalupe, which arrived in the city Dec. 2. Carrera Antorcha Guadalupana is an international relay run that originates in Mexico and culminates in New York Dec. 12, the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. The event commemorates St. Juan Diego’s visitations from Our Lady of Guadalupe in 1532 when she directed him to build a church on the Hill of Tepeyac in Mexico. The torch, along with images of Our Lady and St. Juan Diego, is passed from town to town where local parishioners worship at Mass and have traditional songs, dances and a feast. The torch acts as a link between communities of devotees who cannot visit the shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico. Family members may feel a bond when they hold the torch which friends and relatives in other communities have touched along the route. The torch and images left Lambertville Dec. 3 for Plainfield, the next destination in the torch run. — Nettie Masterson Eubank photo

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Service, evangelization at heart of missionary work of individuals, gro By Tara Smith The shaking of the kayamba, accompanied by the rattling of small shakers, the jingling of the tambourine and sounds of the Ngoma drums bounced around the walls of the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi’s CYO building on the morning of Oct. 24, World Mission Sunday. Above them, the words of the Magnificat, the words of the Blessed Mother to her cousin Elizabeth – “my soul proclaims the greatness of the Lord” – hung in the air as a group of missionary sisters sang, filling the room with a joyful spirit. Hailing from parts of Africa and Vietnam, the religious sisters’ presence at the diocese’s World Mission Sunday celebration gave witness to the joy of Catholic mission work and the universality of the Catholic Church, inspiring the children and their families who were present. “I want to encourage you – we’re each called to be missionaries. Each and every one of us is called to be a missionary, no matter if you’re five years old, if you’re 30 years old, if you’re 50 years old,” Sister Monique Eloizard, a missionary for more than 22 years, told those families and young people

gathered in the CYO building before the noon Mass. “A missionary is bearing witness to God, to Christ, to the Gospel,” she said, adding that before they can become a missionary, they first need to form a friendship with Christ. Instituted in 1926 by Pope Pius XI, World Mission Sunday is an annual celebration that is held the next to last Sunday during the month of October. According to the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, it is noted “as the feast of catholicity and universal solidarity so Christians the world over will recognize their common responsibility with regard to the evangelization of the world.”

Works of Mercy

This year the diocese’s World Mission Sunday celebration was marked with a presentation by Sister Eloizard, a rosary led by the youth of the diocese, and a procession from the CYO building to the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi in Metuchen, during which young people held a banner and crosses representing the different continents, signifying the universal solidarity of the Church. The day began with Sister Eloizard sharing about the sobering reality of her ministry in Haiti. After beginning with the Missionaries of Charity – first as an aspirant in Bronx, N.Y., then as a postulant in Chicago, and next as a novice in San Francisco – Sister Eloizard was sent to serve in Haiti after making her first vows. Originally born in Haiti and having moved to the United States when she was five-years-old, she knew little to nothing about the country, except that it is a “very,

DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Left, Father John G. Hillier, director, diocesan Office of Pontifical Mission Societies, addresses the congregation. Below, Bishop James F. Checchio presents Alani Boomer, an eighth-grader at St. Bartholomew School, East Brunswick, with a certificate for her drawing that was one of 24 national winners of the Missionary Childhood Association Christmas Artwork Contest.

very, very poor country,” she explained. “The Missionaries of Charity mostly take care of the sick there,” she told the young people and their families. “In Haiti, medical care is not as easy as it is here,” she said, explaining how hospitals are understaffed, underequipped and sometimes ill-prepared to care for those in need of medical care. “So, as Missionaries of Charity, we take care of the sick -- the sick who are unable to go to the hospital or if the hospital is unable to provide care for them. Sometimes a person would become so sick that the family did not want them to die in the home, so they would come to our house, where we would care for them and they could die with dignity,” she said. Attributing the work of caring for the dying to the founder of the Order of the Missionaries of Charity, then Mother, now St. Teresa of Kolkata, Sister Eloizard said it is important work, so that people “can die with dignity, so that they die as a human being,” and not anything less. For the first time next year, St. Teresa of Kolkata’s feast day – Sept. 5, the anniversary of her death – will be included as an optional memorial in the liturgical calendar of the United States. Having served in Haiti for more than eight years, ministering to the sick and dying, feeding the poor, and providing free education to the children, the Corporal Works of Mercy were a large part of Sister Eloizard’s mission work there. But, when she was sent to serve in England, there was “a whole different kind of poverty,” that would rely on the work of evangelization. “The poverty of England, as it is in America, is the poverty of loneliness,” she said, recounting how the facades of the homes may be beautiful there, but inside some, there is a lot of suffering. “There’s different kinds of poverty. There is material poverty, when people do not have money, they do not have food, they do not have shelter,” she explained. “But there is also spiritual poverty, where the person might be rich, they have everything, but they’re lacking God, they’re lacking the spiritual life and lacking meaning in their life.” She stressed the importance of growing in relationship with Christ, for our own spiritual lives so that we do not fall into spiritual poverty, but also the importance of coming to know Him as a friend so that we can further our own service as missionaries. “The first thing a missionary needs to do is try to form a friendship with Christ. Just like you pick up your phone every day to text or call your friends or check on social media to see what they’re up to, make sure you have a direct line to God. Make sure you’re trying to build a relationship with God, that he is a friend to you, that you actually think of him,” she implored. “When you wake up in the morning, you think of him; when you’re about to eat that meal, you think of him and say thank you; when you’re walking to school, you think of him, when you’re at school, you’re thinking of him, when you go back home, you’re thinking of him; before

As part of the diocese’s celebration of Wo the diocese process from the CYO building Metuchen, carrying crosses representing the universal solidarity of the Church.

—

you go to bed, you’re thinking of him. You’re constantly thinking of God, because guess what? He’s constantly thinking of you. He’s constantly watching you. He’s constantly loving you.” Following Sis“The first th ter Eloizard’s talk, the people processed to the sionary nee cathedral, where they were greeted by a series try to form a of photos that lined the with Christ communion rail, showcasing the mission proj- you pick up ects the diocese assisted every day to with in the past year – a new shelter for a mother your friend of six in Uganda; the supplies needed so she could on social m cultivate her own vegetawhat they bles and sell them at the make sure y market; motorbikes for newly-ordained priests in direct line India, allowing them to carry out their ministry; —Missionaries o Monique Elo medical mission work in the Philippines; and an ongoing mission to Haiti. Bishop James F. Checchio presided at the World Mission Sunday Mass. Afterwards, he congratulated the winners of the Missionary Childhood Association’s annual Christmas artwork contest and presented awards to those schools, parishes and other institutions who helped to support the work of missions in the past year.

Outreach to Others

In the Diocese of Metuchen, with Bishop Checchio’s support and participation, we seek, not only contribute to the ‘work of evangelization’ in the missions, but to ac-

— Mike Ehrmann and Tara Smith photos

Above, two young people place two of a series of photos on the Cathedral’s communion rail. The photos showcased the mission projects that the diocese assisted with in the past year. They included ones about a new shelter built for a mother of six in Uganda and the supplies she needed to cultivate her own vegetables. At right is Missionaries of Charity Sister Monique Eloizard, who spoke to parents and students in the CYO about her ministry in Haiti. Below, students process into the Cathedral carrying the diocese’s World Mission Sunday banner.

you cannot be a missionary, but “some of us are called to be missionaries right in our own homes,” she said. “Mother Teresa has a short quote, and she says, ‘There is a terrible hunger for love.’ We have all experienced that in our lives, pain and loneliness, but we must have the courage to recognize it,” said Sister Eloizard. “The poor, you may have right in your own family, find them and love them. We may not be able to go to another country. We may not be able to do great things. But I can be a missionary, right in my parish, right in my school, right in my house. But I

need to have open eyes to see that.” “The more we give, the more God gives to us,” she told the children and their families, encouraging them to pray about how God is calling and inviting them to serve as missionaries, right in the Diocese of Metuchen. “When God calls, you will know because he will touch your heart. He will plant something in your heart and you’re not going to be at peace until you pursue or even try out what it is that God is asking of you.” Smith is director, diocesan Office of Communications & Public Relations

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 2021

tively support and promote the missions through our annual Missionary Cooperative Plan,” said Father John G. Hillier, diocesan director of the Office of Pontifical Mission Societies. “Each year, we help hing a mis- mission dioceses and religious communities eds to do is from all over the world a friendship as well as missions that lay people from our diot. Just like cese participate in. We your phone generally help around different groups o text or call 50 – dioceses, religious ds or check communities and lay missions – in places like edia to see the Philippines, Haiti, Central/South America, y’re up to, India, Vietnam, Africa you have a and China.” One of the central e to God.” themes that emerges of Charity Sister when speaking of misoizard Sister sions is its relationship to service,” he continued, explaining that “being of service to people for the sake of the Kingdom summarizes the primary motivation of the missionary. Whether it be down the street, in a neighboring town or in an entirely different culture where a different language is spoken, mission is all about outreach to others with the heart of a servant.” The work of the Office of Pontifical Mission Societies in the diocese is driven by that same theme of service, as outlined in Ad Gentes, the Second Vatican Council’s Decree on the Mission Activity of the Church. Their support of the various Pontifical Mis-

OUR DIOCESE

orld Mission Sunday, young people from g to the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, the different continents, and signifying

sion Societies includes, but is not limited to: three annual appeals, including a Christmas Appeal, Lenten Appeal and Summer Saint Peter the Apostle Appeal. They also have monthly donors and others who contribute to special projects including the “Catholic Near East Welfare,” which they contribute to every year, and other initiatives that arise such as international tragedies like natural disasters, and spontaneous initiatives, such as frequent visitations by missionary bishops, priests, consecrated religious and laity. According to Father Hillier, the Office of Pontifical Mission Societies also regularly works to expand the Missionary Childhood Association, the only association that solely involves children helping children. They work with youth in the Catholic schools and religious education programs in the diocese in an effort to engage young people in missions. The Office also maintains a “Missionary Mass Initiative,” which offers Mass intentions for missionary dioceses and religious communities, and keeps an ongoing list of prayer intentions. In addition, they sponsor missionary institutes and dioceses, selecting about 40 missionary groups each year to participate in the Missionary Cooperation Plan, during which missionaries are welcomed each summer to speak about and run a special collection on behalf of their mission. The Office of Pontifical Mission Societies also participates in a Diocesan Sharing Program. “Currently, there are eight groups that participate in the Diocesan Sharing Program, including the Anawim Community; Family Missions; Bukas Loob Sa Diyos; Franciscans in Action; Maryknoll Fathers; Brothers & Sisters; Source de Vie; and Saint Peter’s Health/Guadalupe Project. These represent countries that include Haiti, the Philippines, Mexico, Japan and Tanzania,” said Father Hillier. “One or more deacons from our diocese, as well as representatives from one or more of the participating missionary groups, give the Appeal at the assigned parishes during our Missionary Cooperation Plan. Their presentation provides an overview of the various missions that have a special relationship with the Diocese of Metuchen. “All gifts received from the assigned parishes are pooled and divided among the various missions,” he continued. “Bishop Checchio corresponds with these missionaries, and he presents each of them with a gift from the Diocesan Sharing Program to be used for their missionary efforts.” Among the efforts of the Diocesan Sharing Program is an ongoing mission to Haiti. “Their contacts make it easier for us to help the people of Haiti, especially during these times of turmoil, and most especially since the earthquake this past summer,” Father Hillier explained. Earlier in her talk, Sister Eloizard said, it is tempting to believe that missionary work can only be done elsewhere, that if you cannot go to another country to proclaim the life-giving presence of Jesus Christ, that

oups supported, promoted by Diocese of Metuchen at home, overseas

18 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 2021

Parochial school tips its hat to local law enforcement personnel On Nov. 19, students and staff of Saint James School, Basking Ridge, honored and prayed for their local police officers in Bernards Township and surrounding areas with a Blue Mass and presentation. Msgr. Sylvester J. Cronin, pastor, St. James Parish, presided at the Mass and gave the homily. Deacon Peter J. DePrima assisted. In his homily, Msgr. Cronin said, “We need to pray for the police every day. Today is a day where we thank them, during our Blue Mass. The police are here to protect us, help us and keep us safe. In some cases, they put their own lives on the line to keep us protected.” After singing the concluding song, “America the Beautiful,” students processed outside, where Msgr. Cronin led them in blessing the officers. Seventh-grader Veronica Hekiert read “The Police Officer’s Prayer to Saint Michael,” then all, led by eighth-graders Emma Cordano and Meaghan Wizeman, sang “God Bless America.” Students gave cards of gratitude to department representatives, asking them to bring them to their colleagues.

Above left, a student at St. James School, Basking Ridge, tries on a police officer’s cap following a Mass during which the school’s students honored and prayed for their local police. Above right, a police officer receives cards of gratitude which the students made for the officers in Bernards Township. Right, police officers line up outside St. James Parish where Msgr. Sylvester J. Cronin, pastor, led the students in blessing the officers. — photos courtesy of St. James School

Inspiring Donation Father Sean W. Kenney, back row, second from right, poses with staff of the Inspire Family Life Center, Warren — a crisis pregnancy center — and members of Chapter 4 of the Knights of Columbus after he recently blessed a new ultrasound machine donated by the Catholic fraternal organization. Father Kenney, pastor, Our Lady of the Mount Parish, Warren, is joined by, front row, from left: Rosanda Grau, Inspire’s co-founder and executive director; Barbara Dobel, Carol Spina, co-founder. Back row, Chapter 4 member Frank Rees, Bunny Brinck-Lund, co-founder and board chair, and Chapter 4 member Dan Spina. The ultrasound machine was donated in honor of Vincent Tavormina of Monroe Township, State Deputy, New Jersey Knights of Columbus, who was instrumental in helping other centers get devices. Through its ultrasound program, the Knights of Columbus have donated more than 150,000 ultrasound machines worldwide. — Frank Rees photo

Academic Achievement Mary Lynch, right, principal, St. Matthias School, Somerset, poses with the only siblings who have earned “Principal’s List Honor Roll” for the first marking period. From left: Santiago Medrano, Gabriela Medrano, Toby Moreno, Zacari Moreno, Miles Williamson and Maren Williamson. St. Matthias students grades five to eight are recognized each quarter for academic achievement. The Honor Roll is determined by grade point average: 89 percent to 92.9, Honors; 93 to 96.9, High Honors; 97 or higher, Principal’s List. — Marlo Williamson photo

Mass, danced, sang, listened to artists and speakers and witnesses. They also The National Catholic Youth Con- received sacraments, encountered ference (NCYC) is an inspiring, Christ and the universal Church, and biannual experience that was hosted left as commissioned disciples, eager to share the expeNov. 18-20 by The rience with those National Federation “The trip was someeven younger than for Catholic Youth Ministry (NFCYM) thing very special for them at their parish. in Indianapolis. me because I was surSpeakers at At the conference, more than rounded by people who the NCYC conference included 10,000 high school Anyanwu, teens, parents, and feel the same way about Chika Garcia and youth ministers the Lord as I do. I was Noelle Father Leo Patalfrom across the country gathered, really able to embrace inghug. Through the witness of these including members and explore my faith speakers, the theme of the Diocese of Metuchen. Of those without being embar- “Ablaze -- Enciende el Fuego”’ in attendance were nine teens and Bob rassed or worried about came to life. The were Ferretti, their youth what other people are participants walked through a minister, from St. meditation on the Joseph Parish, Hillsthinking.” apostles and Mary borough; and Megan — Isabella Gildea receiving the Holy Vantslot, director, Spirit on Pentecost diocesan Youth and and invited to alYoung Adult Minislow the Holy Spirit to set them afire try. During the event, the partici- with a renewed zeal for living as dispants from St. Joseph’s worshipped at ciples of Christ. In one presentation, Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller of San Antonio, Texas, told the teens, “Let us invite the Holy Spirit to recognize God in the person next to you, in front of you, behind you. This is the upper room. Open your hearts to the Holy Spirit.” At left, Jessica Law and Bella Gildea, from St. Joseph, Hillsborough, enjoy the National Catholic Youth Conference held last month. photos courtesy of Megan Vanslot, director, diocesan Youth and Young Adult Ministry

Among the 10,000 high school teens, parents and youth ministers at the National Catholic Youth Conference held last month in Indianapolis were Bob Ferretti, nine teens from St. Joseph Parish, Hillsborough and Megan Vanslot, pictured above. They included, left to right, Kira Pinto, Michael Lanahan, Jack Macias, Kevin Esposito, Abby Losch, Bella Gildea, Katie Cusack, Jessica Lew, Bella Mesita, Vanslot and Ferretti.

Ferretti gave a special insight into his perspective of why the experience of NCYC in its entirety is a powerful one. “When we left the parking lot from St. Joe’s in Hillsborough and headed to Newark Airport I gave each of our teens a list for our scavenger hunt,” he said. “It was a long list. A crazy list. A list filled with everything from take a selfie with the flight attendant, take a sad selfie eating your airplane snack all the way to take a selfie with Sister Miriam James Heidland, the emcee of NCYC 2021. The list was intended to keep the teens engaged and immerse them in the ebb and flow of the event and to make the conference experience concrete. “The teens found most of the items on the scavenger hunt list, but they also found much more — a vibrant, young Church on fire for Jesus,” Ferretti said. “They found that they are not alone in the world and that there are thousands upon thousands of their peers who are unafraid to stand up and be counted as Catholics. They found meaning and joy in their experience of adoration. They found majesty and experienced the love of Christ while celebrating the Eucharist with 10,000 teens, 250 priests and 10 bishops. “The group returned home prepared to spread what it learned and

experienced with families, parish and youth group. We came home with a desire to go deeper and learn more about our faith. We came home renewed and wanting to strengthen our relationship with Jesus.” Isabella Gildea, one of the teens from St. Joseph’s, said, “The trip was something very special for me because I was surrounded by people who feel the same way about the Lord as I do. I was really able to embrace and explore my faith without being embarrassed or worried about what other people are thinking.” When asked about her favorite experience, she shared that she enjoyed “adoration because it was really special to have that experience with so many people and to just be one with the Lord there in that moment.” The conference concluded with a Vigil Mass for Christ the King Sunday. At the closing Mass, Indianapolis Archbishop Charles C. Thompson, said, “Let us go forth with that fire [of the Holy Spirit] to more fully embrace the Lord’s mission in bringing about the kingdom of God, striving always to be Christ-centered in all that we are about. “Let us go and be disciples. Let us go and make a difference... Let us take courage.” — Megan Vantslot

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

Posing behind the NCYC logo are, left to right, Megan Vanslot, Bob Ferretti, Jack Macias, Kevin Esposito, Michael Lanahan, Jessica Lew, Bella Mesita, Bella Gildea, Katie Cusack, Abby Losch, and Kira Pinto. Lew and Mesita form the logo’s “Y.”

OUR DIOCESE

By Megan Vanslot

Hearts of youth from diocese set ‘ablaze’ at three-day conference

NEW BRUNSWICK — Avril A. Keldo, director, Professional Practice, Clinical Education and Nursing Research, Simulation Lab and Medical Library at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, has been honored with the Divisional Leader Award from the Organization of Nurse Leaders of New Jersey (ONL NJ). ONL NJ is an organization that engages and develops nurse leaders in advocacy, research, education, mentorship, and collaborative relationships. With over 600 members from 90 percent of the hospitals in New Jersey, ONL NJ is the voice of nursing leadership. “It is an honor to be named a Divisional Leader by the Organization of Nurse Leaders of New Jersey,” Keldo said. “I believe in championing the nursing profession and am committed to creating an environment that fosters nursing education and professional mentorship at Saint Peter’s. “I am extremely proud that Saint Peter’s continually provides opportunities for nurses to expand their knowledge base as a means to better care for a diverse population. As a result, our nurses will continue to provide the best health care to our patients.” This past year, Keldo has served the New Jersey community by being a team lead for Saint Peter’s COVID-19 vaccination clinics, which has resulted in more than 30,400 vaccines administered to date. Keldo collaborated on this important health initiative with multiple departments throughout the hospital including Pharmacy, Community Health Services, Child

Life, and Information Technology, along with nurses and patient care technicians spanning various departments. Facilitating the COVID-19 vaccine clinics required intricate organizational skills as the Moderna, Janssen (Johnson & Johnson), and Pfizer-BioNtech COVID-19 vaccines were offered concurrently, each on specific dates and at different times. As the director of Professional Practice at Saint Peter’s, Keldo facilitates multiple initiatives within the hospital. She keeps the staff up-to-date on best practices via workshops that focus on building acute care skills, promoting continuing education courses and ensuring competencies through training in the Simulation Center for Interprofessional Learning at Saint Peter’s. The Simulation Center allows nurses to execute procedures on mannequins in a simulated environment without fear of actual harm. Keldo also manages contracts with nursing schools and coordinates scheduling with instructors for students to have an enhanced clinical experience and improve the relationship of nurse mentors with their students on Dedicated Education Units at Saint Peter’s. In addition, she serves on the hospital’s Marketing and Mentoring Committee, spearheading the Nurse Residency Program, an initiative designed to support, educate, and retain new nurses during their first year of nursing, and coordinating the annual Nursing Graduation Ceremony that celebrates the educational achievements of Saint Peter’s nurses. Keldo is passionate about giving back to the community and frequently or-

ganizes fundraisers. She coordinated with Saint Peter’s Foundation to raise money in support of sending more than 25 nurses to the 2021 American Nurses Credentialing Center National Magnet Conference® in Atlanta, and organized a kickboxing fundraiser for those with breast cancer. She also established an annual charity event, held over the past 13 years in December, that provides gifts and scholarships for children who have lost a parent to cancer at Saint Peter’s. “Throughout her career, Avril has always focused on mentoring other nurses and helping them achieve their professional goals,” said Linda Carroll, vice president and chief nursing officer at Saint Peter’s. “If someone has a question or needs advice, she never turns them away. In addition, she is a staunch advocate for higher education, advising colleagues as they navigate the many possibilities a career in nursing can offer.” Saint Peter’s University Hospital, a member of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, is a 478-bed acute-care teaching hospital sponsored by the Diocese of Metuchen. Saint Peter’s, which received its sixth consecutive designation as a Magnet® hospital for nursing excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020, is a state-designated children’s hospital and a regional perinatal center, and is a regional specialist in diabetes, gastroenterology, head and neck surgery, oncology, orthopedics, and women’s services. The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital provides families

20 DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

OUR DIOCESE

New Jersey nursing group recognizes hospital administrator

Faithful Servants St. John Vianney Parish recently inducted its new altar servers in a ceremony with Father John Gloss, pastor, and Deacon Vincent Brigande.

— photos courtesy of St. John Vianney Parish

Avril A. Keldo, director, Professional Practice, Clinical Education and Nursing Research, Simulation Lab and Medical Library at Saint Peter’s University Hospital. — photo courtesy of Saint Peter’s University Hospital

with access to a full range of pediatric specialties, including a nationally recognized Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, pediatric surgery and orthopedic surgery featuring innovative anterior scoliosis correction. The hospital offers a midwifery service and the brand-new state-of-the-art Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center. Saint Peter’s is a sponsor of residency programs in obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics and internal medicine, and is a major clinical affiliate of Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences.

Above, Ss. Peter and Paul Church was built in Great Meadows, an unincorported town in Indepence Township, Warren County. Right, Bishop James F. Checchio blesses a 15-foot mahogany cross that was built by a parishioner Marek Cwalinski, and placed at a corner side of the church. Below Bishop Checchio, third from left, celebrates Mass Nov. 6 for the 100th anniversary of the founding of Ss. Peter and Paul Parish at Ss. Peter and Paul Church. Concelebrants, from left: Father Grzegorz Podsiadlo, Deacon Stephen Gunther, Father John J. Barbella and Father Gilbert Z. Starcher. Below, parishioners Mary Ann Kowalski-Boatman (left) and Cwalinski pose for a photo at a reception. — Ed Koskey Jr. and Tony Salamone photos

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

GREAT MEADOWS — In 1921, Warren G. Harding was sworn in as the 29th president of the United States, First Lady Nancy Reagan, wife of the 40th president, Ronald Reagan, was born, and the PolishSoviet War that began a year earlier, ended. Before that year, Father Arthur Strenski visited Polish immigrants in central Warren County on horseback to celebrate Mass in their homes and deliver the sacraments. Eventually, the immigrants, who came from Poland and elsewhere to settle in and work the fertile, black soil and farms, received permission from Bishop Thomas J. Walsh Jr., shepherd of the Diocese of Trenton, to build an ethnic parish, which became Ss. Peter and Paul. A century of commitment rang out as a theme during a special Mass on Nov. 6 to commemorate the milestone by the parish faithful. Bishop James F. Checchio, who presided at the Mass, emphasized the parishioners’ dedication in reciting a list of ministries to which the congregation participates. He also noted the small (388 registered families) Warren County parish’s financial support in the Bishop’s Annual Appeal. “I’m grateful to you for your commitment to the Eucharist and the Mass,” said the bishop in his homily, focusing on the Gospel reading for the 32nd Sunday in Ordinary Time, which tells of a poor widow giving from her want to support the synagogue. “Our Gospel reminds us it isn’t really a sacrifice unless what we offer at this altar in fact alters our own life,” Bishop Checchio said. “It isn’t a commitment unless we put a part of ourselves into that offering.” Salvatorian Father Grzgegorz Podsiadlo, administrator of Ss. Peter and Paul, welcomed the bishop and visiting clergy. “This is a significant moment for us as we still need to continue to grow in the process of maturing as a community on the way to eternity,” said Father Podsiadlo, whose religious order has a community in Verona and is an international congregation of priests and brothers. Father Podsiadlo also said the celebration, while part of the parish’s rich past, would enlighten future generations. “Remember your ancestors, parents, grandparents, and great-grandparents, those who founded and built this church,” he said. “They left you with the most beautiful gift that a religious community can give to our future parishioners -- God’s house, house of prayer, community house.” After Mass, Bishop Checchio, the pastor and other clergy walked a short distance from the church, which was built in 1966, to a corner of the parish property, where the bishop blessed a 15-foot mahogany cross built by parishioner Marek Cwalinski, a cabinet maker. It is visible to passersby at Danville Mountain and Hope roads in a prominent corner of the parish,

which is off Route 46. “We ask you to bless this cross,” the bishop said before sprinkling it with holy water. “May all who pray before it be reminded of your love through all humanity.” Cwalinski, 51, who arrived in the U.S. in 1993 and became a Ss. Peter and Paul member two years later, said he built the wooden cross, which has an original crucifix from the parish attached with weather-resistant epoxy to the front, at the request of Father Podsiadlo. “I just don’t say no,” said Cwalinski, who spoke as the parish anniversary dinner was about to begin. Other members reflected on what the anniversary means. “I have mixed emotions, because you knew that your family was here all our lives,” said Mary Ann Kowalski-Boatman, a third-generation member, who attended with her daughter, Jennifer Mulhall of Lindenhurst, N.Y. “I know no other church. It’s neat to know that my grandparents were here when the church was started.” Helen Baldwin, 97, who came to the dinner with her brother, Paul Terick, recalled growing up across the street from the church. She said the centennial jubilee “makes me feel good — it gives me umph!” Deacon Stephen Gunther has been a part of the parish 15 years. He moved to the area from a parish in the Diocese of Paterson. He said serving at Ss. Peter and Paul has been a blessing. “To see this parish continue to grow and then to think about the thousands of lives impacted by Christ, to me that’s fabulous,” he said. “And we get to carry that forward into the future.” When Bishop Walsh agreed to the building of the Great Meadows church 100 years ago, he insisted that it be ethnic, so that any Poles, Ukrainians or others would feel welcome. And while early parishioners had names such as Mincewicz, Bolzan, Piasecki and Rodzewicz, the parish has grown to receive all ethnicities, according to its members. That’s commitment to all God’s people, the bishop said in his homily. Jesus Christ didn’t want Christianity to be a religious show of competition or prestige, he said, “He wanted Christianity to be a self-giving love for others.” Some Masses at Ss. Peter and Paul are celebrated in Polish during the week, and for decades, parishioners have participated in a 55-mile pilgrimage from Great Meadows to the Polish-American National Shrine of Our Lady Czestochowa outside Doylestown, Pa. The shrine houses a reproduction of the Black Madonna icon of Czestochowa, Poland, that is similar to one above the tabernacle at Ss. Peter and Paul. Father John J. Barbella, pastor, St. Philip and St. James Parish, Phillipsburg; and Father Gilbert Z. Starcher, parochial vicar, concelebrated the Mass. Father Roy Quesea served as master of ceremonies.

OUR DIOCESE

By Anthony Salamone Correspondent

Parish founded for immigrants has provided century of service

22 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 2021

Parishioners’ long commitment to faith lauded by Bishop Checchio ish, at the request of Bishop Checchio, started a new Spanish ministry in 2020, “which is small but it is growing very SOUTH AMBOY — Bishop James J. slowly but surely.” He said there are Checchio presided at a Mass and gave about 50 to 60 people who attend the the homily Nov. 7 to help Sacred Heart Spanish Mass at Sacred Heart, adding Parish commemorate its founding 125 that Sacred Heart has been promoting the Sunday afternoon Mass through adyears ago. In his homily, the bishop said, “Sa- vertising and “word of mouth.” “But in Covid times I think that cred Heart Parish has shown that it is committed. The Polish people of South [current Mass attendance]) is pretty Amboy built and sustained this beauti- darn good,” Father Gromadzki said. Father Gromadzki said the parful church to promote your worship of ish has been reaching out to Catholics God and pass on the faith.” He noted that the parish was started of Hispanic descent in South Amboy by three Polish families. In review- and the Parlin section of Sayreville to ing Sacred Heart’s website, the bishop join Sacred Heart, noting that many of noted its many ministries, including adults do not speak English. He told extraordinary minister of the holy Com- them they don’t have to travel to Perth Amboy or South River munion, lectors, ushers, to attend Mass. music ministries, the The Poles who “We are offering Holy Name Society, them the Holy Mass and Catholic War Veterans, settled in South the sacraments here for Boy Scouts and a chapAmboy were from their convenience,” Fater of the Society of St. ther Gromadzki said. Vincent de Paul. Western Poland. Father Gromadzki, “There are many who has been pastor They came here... people who are commitat Sacred Heart for 10 ted who make all this happen here at Sacred to receive the social, years, described his paHeart and that is certain- cultural and religious rishioners as “devoted of the traditional ways ly a blessing,” the bishop atmosphere they of the Catholic Church.” said. “You [parishioners] He said they also are have committed yourhad once known. a generous parish. He selves to not only supnoted that currently port the parish… but you young families have not have reached out to some of the others including, more recently, been attending Mass because of fears of COVID-19 exposure. the Latino community.” Sacred Heart Parish serves 1,650 He noted the “good work” done by the parish’s pastor, Father Stanley registered families, with about 60 perGromadzki, and the staff during the past cent of them being older and 40 percent year, noting that there is “no handbook younger parishioners. The parish has 300 children in on how to run a parish during a panits religious classes, half of which atdemic.” “So, I am grateful to them for their tend Polish classes and the remainder perseverance, for their creativity and for English classes. The pastor said he is helping to keep the faith alive,” Bishop encouraged by the growth of young families joining the parish. Checchio said. In 2016, its parochial school closed Sacred Heart was formed in 1895 when Bishop McFaul, shepherd of the because of declining enrollment after Diocese of Trenton, approved a peti- 100 years of operation. According to a history of the parish, tion by Polish families as St. Mary Parish, South Amboy, “was unable to “The Poles who settled in South Amboy adequately satisfy the spiritual needs were from Western Poland. They came of the Poles, for the American-born here to escape their oppressors and to priests were not familiar with the Pol- revive the social, cultural and religious ish tongue,” according to the parish’s atmosphere they had once known.” Prior to the founding of Sacred history. South Amboy had grown from a Heart, Polish families in the late 1890s small Polish colony of 32 families in traveled to St. Stanislaus Church in New York City. 1892 and 63 families by 1895. Mass at Sacred Heart was cel“So, this [establishment of Sacred Heart] was for the convenience ebrated in a concert hall, located on the of people moving into South Amboy,” corner of Second Street and Broadway, Father Gromadzki said in a telephone presently occupied by the Eisner Manufacturing Company, for its first six interview. Today, Sacred Heart offers four months. Construction of the church and Saturday evening and Sunday Masses in school began two months later. In 1907, the present church was English, two in Polish and one in Spanopened in the form of the Old Christian ish, according to the parish’s bulletin. Father Gromadzki said the par- Roman Basilica. By Paul J. Peyton Correspondent

Above Sacred Heart Church, South Amboy, opened its doors to worshipers at Mass and parishioners to receive the sacraments doors in 1907. Prior to that, Mass was celebrated in a concert hall on the corner of Second Street and Broadway. Below, Bishop James F. Checchio processes into Sacred Heart Church at Mass Nov. 7 to help the parish celebrate its 100th anniversary. Continuing clockwise from bottom of page, Bishop Checchio gives out commmunion, gives the homily and raises the host during the consecration. — Marlo Williamson photos

cially proud to have the responsibility of representing her country. Sophomore Sekai Lynton-Jones asked Sophie what one word she would use to describe her USAF experience so far. “Inspiring,” Callahan replied. “I have the security that I can major in anything I want because I can be anything I want in the Air Force. The life lessons that are taken from this experience make you a better person. “When I got to Basic Cadet Training, I was blindsided by it, but I was surprised at what I was able to do. There were 30 people from Training that I have lived with for a year and a half … they are like family to me.” Last summer, Callahan attained crucial survival skills while living in the woods for two 95-degree days with only a map and a compass, strings and tarp for shelter, and carrying 30-pound sacks and no cell phones. This was the same summer that she jumped out of an airplane ﬁve times (twice in one day). Each jump had a 10-second free-fall and she was in the air for ﬁve to six inutes. She faced the experience with little trepidation and great exhilaration. Next summer, Callahan looks forward to obtaining operational Air Force experience (she hopes to be sent to Lackland Air Force Base in Texas). She will also operate Basic Cadet Training. “People come to the USAF from all different backgrounds – some have family ties that they have been pushed to be a part of it because that has always been a part of their lives. Others come from athletic backgrounds, some come from homelessness. This diversity is so important, and we are all offered life-changing opportunities.”

OUR DIOCESE

WATCHUNG – Since graduating from Mount Saint Mary Academy in 2020, Sophie Callahan experienced six weeks of rigorous Basic Cadet Training, declared an Applied Mathematics and Data Science double major, and jumped out of a plane five times solo as a student at the United States Air Force Academy (USAF) near Colorado Springs, Colo. The Cadet Third Class (second year) returned Dec. 14 to inspire students and to share with the community how the Mount has prepared her for her endeavors. She also attended a swimming meet later that day to support her fellow Mounties, as she was once an avid swimmer. When she graduated, she planned to focus on engineering, but opted to switch to her double major instead. She credits the foundation in mathematical skills influenced by Lori Frazier (former math teacher), Steven Muratore (math teacher) and Jacqueline Muratore (former math teacher and current assistant directress of Faculty, Curriculum, and Planning. “I knew that, academically, I was ahead of others, that’s how the Mount prepared me,” Callahan said. “It’s hard to describe it, but I knew I was given the tools that I needed.” “You are going to do amazing things in this world,” said Jacqueline Muratore when she saw Callahan for the first time in years. “We are so proud of you.” When the Martinsville native graduates from the USAF in 2024, she will be commissioned as a lieutenant. “I will be in the top 10 percent of the Air Force at 22 years old,” she said. In that position, Sophie will be given her first major assignment. She is ready for the weight of that role and the strong leadership she must possess. She is espe-

Graduate tells students how alma mater helped her soar as cadet

Above, Mercy Sister Lisa D. Gambacorto, directress, Mount Saint Mary Academy, poses with Sophie Callahan when she visited her alma mater on Dec. 14. Right, Sophie Callahan holds her United States Air Force Flag on the day she received her high school diploma from Mount Saint Mary Academy before departing for Basic Cadet Training in 2020.

Left, Elizabeth Roper, director of School & College Counseling, sophomore Sekai Lynton-Jones and Sophie Callahan pose after the presentation on Dec. 14.

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

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OUR FAITH

Mary and Joseph/Same-sex wedding Q Pope Francis

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Question Corner

November 24, 2021 The evangelist Matthew helps us to understand that the person of Joseph, although apparently marginal, discreet, and in the background, is in fact a central element in the history of salvation. Joseph lives his role without ever seeking to take over the scene. If we think about it, “Our lives are woven together and sustained by ordinary people, people often overlooked. People who do not appear in newspaper and magazine headlines. … How many fathers, mothers, grandparents and teachers are showing our children, in small ways, and in everyday ways, how to accept and deal with a crisis by adjusting their routines, looking ahead and encouraging the practice of prayer. How many are praying, making sacrifices and interceding for the good of all” (Apostolic Letter Patris corde, 1). Thus, everyone can find in Saint Joseph, the man who goes unnoticed, the man of daily presence, of discreet and hidden presence, an intercessor, a support and a guide in times of difficulty. He reminds us that all those who are seemingly hidden or in the “second row” are unparalleled protagonists in the history of salvation. The world needs these men and women: men and women in the second row, but who support the development of our life, of every one of us, and who with prayer, and by their example, with their teaching, sustain us on the path of life.

DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

The Angelus V. The angel of the Lord declared onto Mary. R. And she conceived of the Holy Spirit, Hail Mary… V. Behold the handmaid of the Lord. R. Let it be done to me according to your word. Hail Mary… V. And the Word was made ﬂesh. R. And dwelt among us; Hail Mary… V. Pray for us, O holy Mother of God. R. That we may be made worthy of the promises of Christ. Let us pray: O Lord, through the message of an angel we learned of the Incarnation of Christ, Your Son. Pour Your grace into our hearts, and by His passion and cross bring us to the glory of His Resurrection, through Christ, our Lord. Amen.

I have a question about one of your recent columns. (A woman wrote to say that her husband had been refusing for many years to have

By Father Kenneth Doyle sexual relations with her, and you suggested that this violates the marriage contract.) If sex is so important to a marriage, would you consider the marriage between the Blessed Virgin Mary and St. Joseph to have been a valid marriage? (Indianapolis) Yes, the marriage of Mary and Joseph was a valid marriage. Even though this marriage was never consummated, it was the spouses’ consent that validated the marriage bond, and their decision to maintain Mary’s virginity was made mutually.They gave full consent to their unique call to raise the child Jesus as husband and wife. The Church’s understanding is that marriage is ordered by its nature both to the good of the spouses and the procreation and education of offspring.

At the time of their marriage, both Mary and Joseph knew of Mary’s pregnancy. The Gospel of Matthew (1:16) explicitly recognizes the validity of this marriage when it calls Joseph “the husband of Mary;” and in the eucharistic prayer of the Mass we say, “Blessed Joseph, her Spouse.”

The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops has a webpage called “FAQs on the Meaning of Marriage & Sexual Difference,” and

that webpage responds directly to the question you raise. It says: “For a Catholic who is invited to a same-sex ‘wedding,’ it is important to consider what marriage is and what his or her attendance at such an event would mean. Since marriage is the union of a husband and a wife -- that is, as a man and a woman -- attending a same-sex ‘wedding’ may be considered support for something that is incompatible with this truth. “Especially when it involves close family or friends, it can be a difﬁcult decision. In such circumstances, it is good to seek the advice of your pastor or spiritual director. It is also good to remember that there are many ways of showing love to a person with same-sex attraction without attending such a ceremony.” So, although there is not an absolute canonical prohibition against attendance at such a ceremony, I am sure that most Church leaders would discourage your presence. It strikes me, though, that you may have reached an acceptable compromise by deciding to show up at the reception but not the wedding -- so long as the couple understands by this that you don’t believe theirs is a valid marriage. Questions may be sent to Father Doyle at askfatherdoyle@gmail.com and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, NY 12203.

the poem to music in time for the Mass. With very little time to think about it, Gruber produced a score for guitar and a two-part vocal score for a tenor and a bass. At Mass that night, Father Mohr was the tenor and guitarist and Francis Gruber was the bass, as the world heard, for the ﬁrst time, the Christmas carol we know as “Silent Night.” Joseph Mohr eventually served in the Alpine village of Wagrain, where he established a fund to enable the children of poor people to attend school, and he set up a system to provide care for the elderly. The village school there is still named after him. We can say with conﬁdence that Christmas for Father Mohr was not about a song, but about a way of life. When he died of pulmonary disease in 1848, he was virtually penniless, because throughout his priesthood he donated most of his salary to charity. Joseph Mohr’s connection to “Silent Night” was forgotten until 1995, when a manuscript, in his handwriting, was discovered. He didn’t write “Santa Baby,” “Jingle Bell Rock,” or “Have a Holly Jolly Christmas.” He didn’t become a member of ASCAP and receive a royalty check every time his song was played on Sirius Radio or in a shopping mall. No, he wrote a lyric that has been translated into more than 300 languages and dialects, because it so well captures the reverence that should be inspired by the birth of Jesus.

The event that we celebrate on Christmas was stupendous. A child was born who was unlike any other child, because he had both human nature and the divine nature; he was both human being and God.But this event is also intimate and personal, for each one of us. By appearing on earth in the visible form of this child and the man he would grow to be, God invited human beings — invited all of us — to a real, tangible, loving relationship with him. This was not God revealing himself by breathing thunder and lightning, by flooding the whole earth, by slaying the firstborn sons of Egypt and hurling Pharaoh’s army into the sea, or by obliterating Sodom and Gomorrah. This was God revealing himself in the irresistible form of an innocent, vulnerable, newborn child. Because as Christians we first place our faith not in a God who threatens to destroy us but in a God who reaches out to love us — as a baby does — with no reservations or qualifications — and who calls on us to love each other in the same way — with no distinction based on gender, age, race, religious background, political viewpoint, or economic or social status. That’s what was born, not on a day of earthquake, wind, and fire, but — as Father Mohr’s carol reminds us—on one silent, holy night. Deacon Paolino exercises his ministry at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Whitehouse Station

My fiancé and I are facing a dilemma. He is from a Catholic but extremely abusive household with controlling parents. His sister, who has not practiced the faith for nearly a decade and no longer identifies as Catholic, has recently come out as a lesbian and has invited us to her wedding ceremony. His parents have said many hateful and cruel things about her and have all but threatened to cut off any siblings who attend. My fiancé and I would like to attend at least the reception -- in order to demonstrate that there is more to Catholicism than the cruelty she has received from her parents.We want to communicate that we don’t believe this is a valid marriage but that does not change our love for her. Would that be immoral under Church teaching? (Ellettsville, Ind.)

Interesting origins of hymn, “Silent Night” Joseph Mohr was born in Salzburg, in what is now Austria, in 1792 under inauspicious circumstances. His mother was an unmarried embroi-

derer, and his father was a soldier who hired himself out to ﬁght for one of the many armies in the ﬁeld in Europe in those days. The father was also a deserter twice over — he deserted his army post, and he deserted his wife before she gave birth to Joseph. The boy was lucky, though. The music director at the cathedral in Salzburg took an interest in him and saw to it that he got an education, and the young Joseph also sang and played the violin at a church and a monastery. He entered a seminary and in 1815, he was ordained a priest, and he served parishes in the region, including Orberndorf bei Salzburg. Joseph was serving at St. Nicholas parish on Christmas Eve in 1818, and was wishing he had an original song for the Nativity Mass that night. So, he took a poem he had written and walked about two miles to visit his friend Francis Gruber, who was choirmaster at St. Nicholas. He asked Gruber if he could set

Jesus, Mary, Joseph: our guide The Sunday between Christmas and the New Year has been celebrated as the Feast of the Holy Family since 1969, although the Feast itself dates back to 1921. The Church instituted this feast to account for Catholic devotion to the Holy Family as well as to further recommend the loving communion of Joseph, Mary, and Jesus as the ideal model for all families. Our readings this Sunday portray the ideals of piety, love, and mutual respect as chief charac-

SCRIPTURE STUDY By Msgr. John N. Fell

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE Sat 25

SATURDAY DECEMBER 25 - FRIDAY DECEMBER 31

Vigil: Is 62:1-5 / Ps 89:4-5, 16-17, 27, 29 / Acts 13:16-17, 22-25 / Mt 1:1-25 or 1:18-25. Night: Is 9:1-6 / Ps 96:1-2, 2-3, 11-12, 13 / Ti 2:11-14 / Lk 2:15-20. Dawn: Is 62:11-12 / Ps 97:1,6, 11-12/ Ti 3:4-7 / Lk 2:15-20. Day: Is 52:7-10 / Ps 98:1, 2-3, 3-4, 5-6 / Heb 1:1-6 / Jn 1:1-18 or 1:1-5, 9-14. Sun 26 Sir 3:2-6, 12-14 / Ps 128:1-2, 3, 4-5 / Col 3:12-21 or 3:12-17 / Lk 2:41-52 or, in Year C, 1 Sm 1:20-22, 24-28 / Ps 84:2-3, 5-6, 9-10/ 1 Jn 3:1-2, 21-24 / Lk 2:41-52. Mon 27 1 Jn 1:1-4 / Ps 97:1-2, 5-6 11-12 / Jn 20:1a, 2 -8. Tues 28 1 Jn 1:5-2:2 / Ps 124:2-3, 4-5, 7cd-8 / Mt 2:15-18 Wed 29 1 Jn 2:3-11 / Ps 96:1-2a, 2b-3, 5b-6 / Lk 2:22-35 Thurs 30 1 Jn 2:12-17 / Ps 96:7-8a, 8b-9, 10 / Lk 2:36-40 1 Jn 2:18-21 / Ps 96:1-2, 11-12, 13 / Jn 1:1-18 Fri 31

John the Apostle first century December 27

Crosiers

John and his brother, James, Galilean fishermen called the “sons of thunder,” were chosen to be among the Twelve Apostles. John was with Jesus at the Trans-figuration, in the Garden of Gethsemane and on Calvary. It was to this “beloved disciple” that Jesus entrusted his mother’s care. John evangelized in Ephesus (Turkey), was exiled to the island of Patmos, and according to tradition lived to be 100. John and his community of followers are credited with writing the fourth Gospel, three epistles and the Book of Revelation.

Saints

SCRIPTURE SEARCH® Gospel for December 26, 2021 Luke 2: 41-52

Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the feast of the Holy Family of Jesus, Mary and Joseph, Cycle C. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle. YEAR TWELVE YEARS THE BOY JOURNEY ASKING THEM FATHER HEART

FEAST ACCORDING JESUS FOUND HEARD HIM KNOW WISDOM

PASSOVER RETURNING BEHIND TEMPLE ANSWERS UNDERSTAND FAVOR

REUNION J O M R E T U R N S U M

H W I

N G

S D O M N

R F N E H F A T H E R A J B D A D B E H

N D

E O H Y E R R T N A S R Y U T E D R G A N A U O E R F A A N S W E R S C V N E R

R E T F H E C

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

teristics of happy, blessed family life. The Gospel reading this Sunday depicts what is commonly known as the Fifth Joyful Mystery of the Rosary, the Finding of Jesus in the Temple. This story, written by St. Luke, is the only mention of Jesus’ adolescence in the entire New Testament. St. Luke uses this pericope to illustrate the environment in which Jesus “progressed steadily in wisdom and age and grace before God and men” (Lk 2:52). Mary and Joseph provided Jesus with a home which stressed pious devotion to God as is illustrated by their annual pilgrimage to Jerusalem. St. Luke tells us that Mary and Joseph’s custom was to celebrate Passover in the Holy City; this involved an arduous journey of some 60 miles. Once there, they stayed for seven or eight days before returning to Nazareth. It was on the return trip of one such journey that Jesus became separated from Mary and Joseph. After a frantic, three-day search, his parents found Jesus in the temple “sitting in the midst of the teachers, listening to them and asking them questions” (Lk 2:46). His poise and understanding amid the great doctors of Mosaic Law testifies that Mary and Joseph had raised a truly remarkable youngster. His sense of mission and fervor for his relationship with the Lord, even at age 12, is captured in his question to Mary, “Did you not know that I had to be in my Father’s house?” (Lk 2:49). If Joseph, Mary, and Jesus provide the ideal example of family living, St. Paul’s Letter to the Colossians presents a beautiful description of such a way of life. St. Paul wrote this letter to bolster the faith of the Christian community as well as to correct some errors which had crept into their religious practice. The section of the letter which forms our second reading

this Sunday can be aptly entitled “General Principles for Christian Living.” Relying on the Baptismal image of being outwardly clothed with a white garment symbolic of interior spiritual purity, St. Paul tells his readers that they must likewise “clothe” themselves with mercy, kindness, humility, meekness, and patience. They must wrap themselves in these virtues, “wearing” (showing) them in all their dealings with others. St. Paul further urges mutual forgiveness: “forgive as the Lord has forgiven you” (Col 3:13). “Over all these virtues,” St. Paul writes, “put on love which binds the rest together and makes them perfect” (Col 3:14). Love must be the chief characteristic of all those who would live as Christ taught. Love is the foundation of all other virtues, love is their motivation, and love is their supreme goal. This love was chiefly discernable by one’s total concern for others — Christian love (agape) was the opposite and the antidote for selfishness. This love is so essential because Christians have been commissioned to bring peace to the world — “you have been called to that peace” (Col 3:15). Christian peace is not simply the absence of conflict, but the state of being in a complete environment of loving, healthy relationships with God and others. This peace is the warm, loving nurturance that families are called upon to provide for their members, that Christians are called to share with one another, and that all people so fervently seek and so desperately need. Such peace is the foundation of justice and the root of joy. The peace of Christ exhorts and empowers all people to commit themselves to lives of grateful service to God. It provides the motivation for families, communities, and nations to praise God and serve one another by doing and saying all things “in the name of the Lord Jesus” (Col 3:17). With the power of Christ among us, this peace is not some remote wish, but rather a very real possibility. On this Holy Family Sunday, we look to all our families to lead the way toward such peace. The Scriptures have placed before us the Holy Family of Nazareth as our model and guide. May the love which we bear for one another allow us to experience Christ in each of our homes as really as Mary and Joseph did, thus making each of our families holy families. Msgr. Fell is a Scripture scholar and director, diocesan Office or Priest Personnel

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Holy Family Sunday (C)

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Your prayer requests are welcomed and encouraged. They shall be placed before the Blessed Sacrament and lifted daily in prayer. The ministry of this Hermitage is God’s gift, a life of prayer, freely given to our diocese for you. Please accept this free gift. It is a privilege to be united with you in prayer. Be still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 Prayer Request: _______________________________

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Agencies collaborate to distribute food to needy The Mobile Family Success Center (MFSC) of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen (CCDOM), partnered with the Edison Housing Authority (EHA) to provide Thanksgiving turkeys, fresh produce, canned goods and toiletry items at Robert E. Holmes Gardens, Edison, Nov. 18. Approximately 110 families received Thanksgiving holiday care packages at the facility, while 40 families and senior citizens were able to select either a turkey or a whole chicken at the EHA’s satellite ofﬁce. REPLENISH, an organizer of food distribution in Middlesex County that networks with more than 140 partners to address hunger and food insecurity, provided a pallet’s worth of nonperishable items to help serve families in need. Through this event, MFSC fulfilled its mission to provide to those in need through community partnerships. To learn more about CCDOM, which is supported by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, and its 100 programs and 20 service areas that provide a

Mobile Family Success Center staff Rosmery Suarez, Anthony Lashley Jr.,and Rosela Roman distribute food to families. — photo courtesy of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen

path to self-sufficiency and hope for a brighter future for people from all

walks of life, races, religions and economic levels, visit www.ccdom.org.

Anonymous donor gives $900 to children’s program “Come follow me”

DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

(Mark 10:21)

Is God calling you to serve as a priest, deacon, religious sister or brother?

If you think maybe... Contact the

(732) 562-2453 or e-mail: vocations@diometuchen.org

It was a typical, bustling morning at the Catholic Charities YES Early Learning Center, New Brunswick, Nov. 16. Staff members were welcoming the preschoolers and their families as they arrived to school and settled into their day. As the children finished entering the Center and families went off to start their day, the doorbell rang at the main entrance. One of the Learning Center’s Family Workers greeted a man at the door. He stated that he wanted to make a donation to the Center to benefit the students and their families. Speechless by this unexpected act of generosity, the Family Worker looked down to the man’s hands to find three envelopes totaling $900. The man, who declined to give his name, was thanked by the Family Worker thanked him as he walked away. The money was given to needy families in the form of gift cards to buy holiday meal items and groceries. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen Child Care typically serves more than 1,4000 children, preschool to school age in several counties in New Jersey. More than 145 preschoolers at

Donations to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, supported by the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, allow for vounteers such as Carla Graifer to share her passion and talent in the culinary and visual arts by hosting various events, workshops and virtual platforms. — photo courtesy of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen

tend the YES Early Learning Center daily. To learn more about Catholic

Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, and child care, visit the website www.ccdom.org/child-care

Journey of Faith

and denounced murderous anger and hatred as immoral” (ccc 2302). As the Catechism puts it: “If anger reaches the point of a deliberate desire to kill or seriously wound a neighbor, it is gravely against charity; it is a mortal sin” (ccc 2302). We ought never to wish evil upon our neighbor! To combat all forms of hate, Jesus offers “peace” as his central message to us all. The Catechism explains, “earthly peace is the image and fruit of the peace of Christ, the messianic ‘Prince of Peace’” (ccc 2305). To this end, people of all countries and governments are obliged to work for peace; or, as the Catechism puts it “are obliged to work for the avoidance of war” (ccc 2208). If necessary, “governments cannot be denied the right of lawful selfdefense, once all peace efforts have failed” (ccc 2308). The traditional elements enumerated in the “just war” doctrine (ccc 2309 in the Catechism) is an acceptable way to approach the right to lawful self-defense. “The evaluation of these conditions for moral legitimacy [of a Just War] belongs to the prudential judgment of those who have responsibility for the common good” (ccc 2309). And, if after a careful prudential evaluation, a government decides it has no other choice but to call its

citizenry to arms, “public authorities should make equitable provision for those who for reasons of conscience refuse to bear arms” (ccc 2311). Such individuals may serve their country in some other beneficial way. Also, “noncombatants, wounded soldiers, and prisoners must [always] be respected and treated humanely” (ccc 2313). Additionally, “Every act of war directed to the indiscriminate destruction of whole cities or vast areas with their inhabitants is a crime against God and man” (ccc 2314). If weapons of mass destruction are activated to commit such crimes, “one is morally bound to resist orders” (ccc 2313). As we continue to wait in joyful hope for the Second Coming of Our Savior Jesus Christ, the threat of conflict and war continues. We ought to pray daily that the words of the Prophet Isaiah will be fulfilled: “they shall beat their swords into plowshares, and their spears into pruning hooks; nation shall not lift up sword against nation, neither shall they learn war any more” (Is 2:4). Father Hillier serves as Director of the Office of the Pontifical Mission Societies, Censor Librorum and oversees the Office for Persons with Disabilities

Bearing Gifts The student council at St. John Vianney School, Colonia, recently held its annual toy drive. This year, through the generosity of the parents, several hundred toys, games and gift cards were collected. The gifts will be distributed to Middlesex County Foster and Adoptive Services and Life Choices Resource Center, Metuchen. Lori Perona is the student council mentor. — photo courtesy of St. John Vianney School

www.ca thol i c spi ri t.c om

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

moral law if the physical and psychological dangers and risks to the donor are proportionate to the good sought for the recipient” (ccc 2296). Organ transplants are morally unacceptable when “the donor or his proxy has not given explicit consent” (ccc 2296) and such transplants cause “disabling mutilation or death” (ccc 2296). Several cases have recently surfaced suggestBy Father John Gerard Hillier ing unscrupulous doctors hastened death in order to preserve organs for None of us will ever forget the cloud donation purposes. Very Sad! over our country and our world as we Respect for bodily integrity inhave sought to live life during the cludes all things that are injurious coronavirus pandemic; one of the most to the health of either body or soul. fascinating advancements in human Those mentioned in this section of the science having occurred during this Catechism include “kidnapping and time, when the vaccine was carefully, hostage taking,” as well as “amputayet most efficiently, created. tions, mutilations, and sterilizations.” “Operation Warp-speed” is the All such procedures, when “performed official name that the on innocent persons government used to [aside from being done The Catechism describe the creation for legitimate medical of the vaccine, be- explains, “earthly peace reasons] are against cause what would northe moral law” (ccc mally take up to five is the image and fruit 2297). years to complete, of the peace of Christ, Regarding “rewas completed in less spect for the dead,” the messianic ‘Prince the Catechism advises: than six months. One crucial aspect in the of Peace’ “ (cc 2305). To “the dying should be process was finding given attention and volunteers willing to this end, people of all care to help them live participate in various last moments in countries and govern- their scientific and medical dignity and peace” experiments in order ments are obliged to (ccc 2299). In addito test the vaccine for tion to ordinary means work for peace; or, as of care like hydration, wider public use. Reflecting fur- the Catechism puts it all dying persons are ther on the Fifth Comnormally assisted by “are obliged to work spiritual benefits like mandment in the Catechism (“You shall prayers of family, for the avoidance of the not kill,” Ex 20:13 friends and the wider and Dt 5:17), we see parish community, as war” (ccc 2208). affirmation that exwell as, the gifts of the periments like those sacraments of penance, initiated for “Operaholy Communion and tion Warp-speed” on individuals and the sacrament of the sick. groups “can contribute to healing the After death, “the bodies of the sick and the advancement of public dead must be treated with respect and health” (ccc 2292). A few paragraphs charity, in faith and hope of the Resurlater, we read: “Science and technolo- rection” (ccc 2300). That is why the gy by their very nature require uncon- burial of the dead is a Corporal Work ditional respect for fundamental moral of Mercy. We even have professional criteria. They must be at the service of make-up artists and stylists for the dethe human person, of his inalienable ceased. “It honors the children of God, rights, of his true and integral good, in who are temples of the Holy Spirit” conformity with the plan and the will (ccc 2300). Additionally: 1. “Autopof God” (ccc 2294). sies can be morally permitted for legal What makes such experimenta- inquests or scientific research; 2. The tion morally illegitimate is when “it free gift of organs after death is leexposes the subject’s life or physical gitimate and can be meritorious; (and) and psychological integrity to dispro- 3. [Cremation is permitted] provided portionate or avoidable risks” (ccc that it does not demonstrate a denial of 2295). An additional condition to en- faith in the resurrection of the body” sure legitimacy is that informed con- (ccc 2301). An additional condition sent must be given by “the subject or regarding “cremation” is that the crethose who legitimately speak for him” mated remains receive a proper Chris(ccc 2295). tian burial. Similarly, organ transplants are When Jesus recalled the Fifth acceptable, even “noble and meritori- Commandment in St. Matthew’s Gosous,” if done “in conformity with the pel (5:21), he “asked for peace of heart

FAITH ALIVE

Article 157 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 2288-2317

Commandment includes range of issues to protect life

28 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 2021

OBITUARY John J. Comandini, whose son, Father Glenn J. Comandini, is managing editor of “The Catholic Spirit,” died Nov. 30 surrounded by his family at Hampton Ridge Health Care Center, Toms River. He was 89. Father Comandini presided and gave the homily at a funeral Mass at St. Brigid Church, Peapack, Dec. 4. John was born in Raritan Borough to Anna and Dominick Comandini. After graduating from Somerville High School in 1950, he enlisted in the United States Air Force, where he achieved the rank of Staff Sergeant. He was a veteran of the Korean War. In 1955, he married the love of his life, Theresa (Terry) Marino. They observed their 66th wedding anniversary Nov. 6. From their love, in addition to Father Comandini, the couple had two other sons, Eric James and Thomas Joseph. The couple raised them in Branchburg and later the Whitehouse Station section of Readington Township, where the

family were communicants of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish for 30 years. John worked as a service manager for Lincoln-Mercury for 40 years, overseeing the jobs assigned to the mechanics and was awarded with many Customer Satisfaction citations by Ford Motor Company. When not working or with his family, he loved to play golf. At one point, he held a scratch handicap. He and Terry were members of Copper Hill Country Club, Flemington, for 30 years, and later, when they retired to Charlotte, N.C., members of Raintree Golf Course. If he was not playing golf, he was watching the sports on television. He was an avid fan of the New York Giants and the New York Yankees. In addition to his wife and Father Comandini, John is survived sons Eric and his wife, Cecily, of Flemington; and Thomas and his wife, Barbara, of Brick. John enjoyed the company of

his grandchildren: Michael Comandini of New York; Brittany Comandini and her husband, Jeff Smaus of Olympia, Wash.; Jeffrey of Pinellas Park, Fla.; Bryan Comandini and his wife, Deborah Ligier, of Jersey City. Entombment was at Holy Cross Mausoleum, Basking Ridge. Arrangements were handled by Gallaway & Crane Funeral Home Inc. Basking Ridge. In lieu of flowers, donations may be offered to the Carmelite Monastery of Mary Immaculate, 26 Harmony School Road, Flemington, NJ 08822.

Please pray for vocations

10 11

16 17

26 27

29 32

34 35

36 37

ACROSS 3 He cured Naaman of leprosy 9 “___ Dimittis” 10 Job owned five hundred yoke of these 11 It’s during Holy Week 12 Prayer ender 14 “An ___ of youth flying the standards of truth…” 16 Number of Beatitudes 17 “___ of heaven and earth” 18 Second book of the Bible 20 Jacob’s dream 22 Like Teresa of Avila or John of the Cross 24 Catholic star of “Samson and Delilah” 26 It may be actual or sanctifying 27 Catholic actor of “Gone with the Wind” fame 30 He blamed the Christians for burning Rome 32 “He is seated at the right ___ of the Father” 34 Catholic Chemist and inventor 35 He is in Jesus’ genealogy in Luke 36 Friday in Lent no-no food 37 Title for a Dominican, for example

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

Answers can be found on page 31

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

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DOWN 1 Father-in-law of Caiaphas 2 How many times each day the soldiers of Joshua marched around Jericho 4 Epistle 5 David used this to kill Goliath 6 David and Bathsheba were guilty of this 7 Il Osservatore ___ 8 “…but do not perceive the wooden ___ in your own eye?” (Mt 7:3) 13 Adam and Eve were afraid because they were this 15 “…mean ___ and your ‘No’…” (Jas 5:12) 17 Paul was shipwrecked here 19 Esau, to Joseph 21 Explanation or interpretation of Scripture 23 “Lord, ___ us to pray” (Lk 11:1) 24 Adam was the first 25 Book written by St. Thomas More 26 There are stories about this saint and a dragon 28 Make the sign of the cross 29 Saintly convert executed in Auschwitz 31 “…___ this day be at my side…” 33 Son of Adam

OUR DIOCESE

Crossword Puzzle

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service

After the baby Jesus was born in Bethlehem, Magi from the east arrived in Jerusalem. “Where is the newborn king of the Jews? We saw his star at its rising and have come to do him homage,” they said as they searched for Jesus. When King Herod heard about the Magi’s search, he became concerned. He asked the chief priests and the scribes where the Messiah was to be born. “In Bethlehem of Judea,” they said, “for thus it has been written through the prophet: ‘And you, Bethlehem, land of Judah, are by no means least among the rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler, who is to shepherd my people Israel.’” Herod secretly called the Magi to him and found out the date they had ﬁrst seen the star appear. He also told them they could ﬁnd the Messiah in Bethlehem. “Go and search diligently for the child. When you have found him, bring me word, that I too may go and do him homage,” the king said. The Magi again set out on their journey. They followed the star to where it stopped, which was over the house in Bethlehem where Mary, Joseph and Jesus were staying. The Magi were overjoyed at seeing the star. When they entered the house, they saw Jesus with Mary. They prostrated themselves and did Jesus homage, then they offered him gifts of gold, frankincense and myrrh.

When the Magi left Jesus, Mary and Joseph, they returned home by another route, because they were warned in a dream not to return to King Herod. After the Magi left, an angel of the Lord came to Joseph in a dream. “Rise, take the child and his mother, ﬂee to Egypt and stay there until I tell you. Herod is going to search for the child to destroy him,” the angel warned. Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt. He stayed there until the death of Herod, so what God had said through the prophets might be fulﬁlled, “Out of Egypt I called my son.”

— Artwork, courtesy of CNS

Read more about it: Matthew 2 Q&A 1. Who was searching for the Messiah? 2. Where did Joseph take Mary and Jesus? TRIVIA:

In which region of Israel is Bethlehem located? (Hint: Matthew 2:1) PUZZLE:

Using the hints provided, answer the questions about the Holy Family. 1. Where did Joseph take Mary and Jesus to live after Herod died? (Matthew 2:22-23) ________ 2. Who told Joseph that it was OK to take Mary as his wife? (Matthew 1:20) ________ 3. Why did Joseph and Mary go to Bethlehem? (Luke 2:1-5) ________ 4. To whom did angels appear to announce Jesus’ birth in Bethlehem? (Luke 2:8-11) ________

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DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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Trivia Answer: Judea Puzzle Answers: 1. Nazareth; 2. an angel; 3. to be enrolled; 4. shepherds

OUR DIOCESE

Kids Corner: Joseph protects Jesus by fleeing to Egypt

MOUNT SAINT MARY

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

Choices Matter – All Presentations of the diocese’s Choices Matter Virtual Conference Series are available for viewing by visiting: https://www.diometuchen.org/choicesmatter. Presentations delivered at the diocese’s Choices Matter Conference included: Integrity, God’s Plan for sexuality, defending life in the black community, and fighting the legalization of assisted suicide. Each session will challenge you to reflect on why, in each of these areas, our choices matter if we want to build a culture of life and love. 1/8 Synod Facilitator Training, 10 a.m. – noon, will be held at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi in Metuchen. This is for those who would like to be involved in the Synod Deanery Listening Sessions, serving as table (small group) facilitators to help ensure effective listening sessions. Please register here: www.diometuchen.org/synod2023. 1/12 Purification and Enlightenment, This virtual program will begin at 7 p.m. The Purification and Enlightenment period coincides with the Lenten season. It is a period of more intense spiritual preparation. How can we best call the elect and candidates to intense purification – to come to grips with their sin and their need of salvation and grace, while at the same time, enlighten their minds with a deeper and more personal knowledge and intimacy with Christ? Facilitated by JoLynn Krempecki, Director of RCIA, Nativity of the Lord, Monroe. For the Zoom meeting information, please email: ssharlow@diometuchen.org

Jan. 15, 8 p.m. -- Our Lady of Lourdes Knights of Columbus Council 6930, Whitehouse Station, will present “A Magical Evening of Laughter,” a Gemini Comedy Ent.Production, at Our Lady of Lourdes Community Center. Entertainers are: Larry Stevens, oneof-a-kind stand-up comedian; Gemini, headlined the Borgata Casino; Mike Spade, performed with Chris Rock, and John Hoey, headlined his Mystery Tour. Proceeds from the event help the Council support organizations such as Starﬁsh Food Pantry, Hunterdon ARC, Clinton ARC, and Lyons VA Hospital to name a few. Cost is $50 per person

A O N U N C N C A M E N A S M A K A E L A D T M A T U A T N E R O V P H E L I R A

1/26 Celebrating Our Young Disciples, 7 p.m., Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. In celebration of the 40th anniversary of the Diocese of Metuchen, the diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry will hold its annual St. Timothy and St. Teresa Awards Ceremony, celebrating our young disciples of today and acknowledging the many who have contributed over the past 40 years. For more information visit, www.diometuchen.org/40 2/28 The Triduum, This virtual program will begin at 7 p.m. The Triduum is a single celebration of the paschal mystery of Christ presented over three days. How can we best utilize this period of time to set the stage for the initiation rites and to give the elect and candidates the best and richest experience possible as they are being incorporated into the paschal mystery? Facilitated by Sara Sharlow, Director of RCIA, Diocese of Metuchen. For the Zoom meeting information, please email: ssharlow@diometuchen.org

LECTIO DIVINA, Mondays at 11 a.m. join faithful from around the diocese in a prayerful, virtual gathering of Lectio Divina, a method for praying with the Scriptures. As one reads and invites the Word to become a transforming lens that brings the events of daily living into focus, one can come to live more deeply and find the presence of God more readily in the events of each day. Start your week with prayer, community, and hope. To get the most out of these sessions, please remember to have your bible readily available. For the Zoom meeting information, please email: ssharlow@diometuchen.org

R B O X E N M A A R M Y N E O D U S N T I C E L A C E C E H A N D B I M E A T L H

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT DECEMBER 23, 23, 2021

Celebrating the Church as a “Family of Families” As we celebrate the Year“Amoris Laetitia Family,”the Office of Communications and Public Relations is compiling a digital family photo album. We invite you to share a photo of your family – a photo of your domestic church by which our local Church of Metuchen is constantly enriched. Please consider sharing your family’s photo with us by sending your photo to communications@diometuchen.org, so we can together bear witness to the love of God through our “family of families.”

Jan. 22, 10 a.m.-3 p.m. -- Villa Pauline Retreat/Spiritual Center, 352 Bernardsville Rd, Mendham, is hosting a day of reﬂection and prayer – “Mindfulness Meditation as a Pathway to Wholeness and Peace.” Presenter: Christian Charity Sister Mary Joan Smith. Suggested Offering: $50, includes lunch. Register by mail or online – www.scceast.org

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

3/6 Rite of Election, 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. Only for the unbaptized.In order to avoid overcrowding the Cathedral during this ongoing Pandemic, the Rite of Calling Candidates to Continuing Conversion will not be celebrated at the Cathedral. Instead, each parish is asked to celebrate the Rite of Calling Candidates to Continuing Conversion with their candidates. For more information, please email ssharlow@diometuchen.org

Celebrating Our Neophytes The diocese has started to post the 2021 Neophyte Celebration. Since pandemic restrictions prevented the celebration of a Neophyte Mass, the Neophytes in the diocese are being honored in a different way. They have been invited by the diocese to submit a witness statement about their RCIA journey of faith, along with a photo. This invitation explained that the RCIA office was going to create a “Celebration of Our Neophytes” virtual presentation for its website. Neophytes can send their witness statement and photo to: ssharlow@diometuchen.org

Reflection and Prayer

Crossword Puzzle Answers:

1/23 – 1/25 Synod 2023 Eucharistic 40 Hours and Listening Sessions, will be held at one parish in each Deanery. The Eucharistic 40 Hours will end with simultaneous listening sessions in each location from 7 p.m. – 9 p.m. on Tuesday, Jan. 25. More information and a list of the host parishes can be found here: www.diometuchen.org/synod2023.

DIOCESAN PROGRAMS Young Couples Bible Study, An opportunity to explore the Biblical basis of Catholic beliefs. This virtual group meets Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on zoom. For more information contact cdaverso@diometuchen.org.

includes: show, dinner, desert and wine and beer. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner at 6:30 p.m. For tickets contact Tom at (908) 217-4330, tomdiquollo@gmail. com or Roman at (908) 256-9760, rhnidj70@gmail.com

Entertainment

OUR DIOCESE

The state-wide Joy of Love and Family Conference Series talks will be available for viewing through December 2021. They were posted over a six month period beginning in June. They cover every stage of family and can serve as a valuable resource to individuals, families and ministry groups. For more information visit: www.lightingheartsonfire@diometuchen.org

DIOCESAN EVENTS

AROUND THE DIOCESE

32 OUR DIOCESE

Best wishes and prayers for a Very Merry Christmas & Blessed New Year!

DECEMBER 23, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

From the Staff of The Catholic Spirit