Photos from Holy Week services at various churches in the diocese, 14-15
Spirit atholic C THE
THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN
APRIL 15, 2021 • VOL. 26 NO. 3 • $2.00
At the beginning of the Easter Vigil at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, April 3, Bishop James F. Checchio prays as he blesses the Paschal candle before lighting it. The candle is the symbol of the light of Christ, rising in glory, scattering the darkness of the hearts and minds of the faithful. Father Dawid Wejnerowski, parochial vicar at the Cathedral, assists. The bishop’s homily from the Vigil is on page 2, and the story on the Mass is on page 13. — Mike Ehrmann photo
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Bishop blesses holy oils at annual liturgy. . .3 This issue was mailed on April 13 Your next issue will be May 20
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From darkness of past year, Christ’s resurrection is our hope Editor’s Note: The following is Bishop James F. Checchio’s homily, which he delivered at the Easter Vigil at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, and at Mass on Easter Sunday at Our Lady of the Mount Virgin Church, Middlesex.
arose, a new value system rose with Him, a new way of being a human person, a human community was created anew and we now had the possibility of eternal life with Him. While the pandemic of this past year is a crisis that has certainly caused pain, suffering, and isolation, Christ’s resurrection gives us the gift of light, new joy and new life. From the darkness we have all experienced this past year, His resurrection is our hope. The light of Easter becomes a light in our hearts that helps us overcome the recent difJesus tells us, “I am the light of the ficulties and reminds us that we are world; he who follows me will not never alone. Christ sacrificed Himself walk in darkness but will have the so that we can have light to witness light of life!” And, my brothers and His glory and strengthen faith in our sisters in Christ, how we need the light world. In the midst of this of life this year! pandemic As you well know, Jesus desires to fill us darkened, year, this Easter we our great Easter Vigil begins each year in with the light of His need to make more darkness, in a dark love and His mercy, room for the saving risen Lord Jesus Christ Church, as we await the and we are asked in our lives. We need light of the risen Christ make more room for to fill our Church and to share that light to God in our lives, in our our lives. We know that night can be a time of with all those we hearts, in our families, in our parishes and silence, darkness, aloneness. It can also be a encounter each day diocese, in our complace of fear and danger. with our words and munities. It might be hard to believe at times The Prophet Isaiah tells us: “The people who our actions, by how but we have to believe it. The tomb is empty, walked in darkness have we live our lives. and Jesus rose from the seen a great light; upon dead; God really, truly those who dwelt in the land of gloom a light has shone.” (Is unconditionally loves us. He even for9:1) Yes, Easter proclaims that Christ, gave those who put Him to death and the Light of the world, is truly risen. assured the thief that he would be with That fact of faith, that belief, that Him that day in paradise. Imagine claim is proclaimed and celebrated on what God wants to say to us, today, this holy day. God, the eternal creator, risen from the dead. What does He who took on human flesh, became to- desire to speak to your heart? Indeed, God looks for us even if tally vulnerable, was crucified, died, was buried, but now rose from the we are hiding, even if we are trying to dead to set us free from everything as- ignore Him; He looks for us. And the sociated with darkness, and to rescue more we run into the darkness from Him because of doubt, anger, fear, an us, to save us. When Jesus rose from the dead old resentment, ignorance, whatever, two millennia ago, a whole new world the more He refuses to let go of us.
Bishop James Checchio
Catholic Spirit
Bishop James F. Checchio gives the homily from the ambo at the Easter Vigil Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. — Mike Ehrmann photo
That’s what happened at Easter so long ago; that’s what happens again this Easter. My brothers and sisters in Christ, we really need Easter to help us particularly during this time of strife. We are not on our own or left with only a worldly response. Jesus is risen, truly, and His light desires to fill our lives, our hearts, our families, and our Church with His love. So, let us rejoice in His resurrection. Let us be reminded that Mary rejoices in His resurrection with us and she is always close by Him and with us too. Let us celebrate all the
blessings Easter brings us and to always believe in the Good News, making more room in our lives for Him through our prayer and our participation in the Eucharist. Jesus desires to fill us with the light of His love and His mercy, and we are asked to share that light with all those we encounter each day with our words and our actions, by how we live our lives. My prayers are with you and your families this Easter. I ask you to please remember me in your Easter prayers too. God bless you all and Happy Easter.
APRIL 15, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
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By Christina Leslie Correspondent METUCHEN — Keeping their parish family intact in a pandemic, reawakening their faith and encouraging them to draw strength from their parish home is a tall order, admitted Bishop James F. Checchio to his priests during a sociallydistant Chrism Mass celebrated March 30 at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. But, the bishop added, they must remember what gives them strength — each other. “We were designed to need one another, and we were sent to do His work,
not as ‘Lone Rangers,’ but as a presbyterate,” the bishop said. “The saving work of his redemption is accomplished through our frail human hands. This Chrism Mass is a profound renewal of all that we are and all that we are called to be as his priests.” Pews usually filled with hundreds of priests, deacons and laity for the annual Mass were nearly empty because of COVID-19 restrictions, but despite the reduction in numbers, Bishop Checchio’s joy at seeing so many of his priests at once filled the room. “This is the first time as a presbyterate that we’ve been together in too long,”
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he said. “This past year has brought a hunger for our liturgical life together. Virtual gatherings have been a blessing, but there is nothing that replaces personal presence.” Calling the priests seated before him “God’s chosen instruments,” Bishop Checchio reminded them their focus should be not upon the challenges of the current day, but upon the future of their parish. “Reflecting on reopening is a profound spiritual responsibility for us, it must occupy a place in our hearts,” he stated. “Our task is not to get back to normal, but something much more profound: how do we get back to better?” Modern technology can assist a parish in connecting with its people, but busy parents and teens who “live their lives on their cellphones” present a special challenge. “Where can we meet them virtually so that we can lead them effectively to a commitment to a life of faith in our Church?” the bishop asked. “We must reimagine how we can contact their hearts. Many of them were spiritually adrift, some had one foot out the door before the pandemic. “They are still part of our flock and must be the special object of our prayers and pastoral efforts,” he continued. “How do we go searching after that missing one? We cannot wait for them to come to us, we must be men on the move for the sake of souls. That is what is at stake.” Reliance upon Our Lady of Guadalupe, whose apparition to St. Juan Diego
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
Father Matthew Marinelli receives holy Communion at the Chrism Mass. On tables, the Oil of Catechumens and Sacred Chrism are in boxes that were brought back to each parish to be used in the liturgical calendar year. — Frank Wojciechowski photos
Bishop James F. Checchio, center, enters the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi at the annual Chrism Mass with, among other clergy and deacons, Deacon Peter E. Barcellona, left, and Deacon Stephen F. Kern.
OUR DIOCESE
Where in the diocese can it be found?
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Image Week
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Font of Divine Mercy remains filled long after Easter Body & Soul By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD Last weekend, the Church observed Divine Mercy Sunday, which was our annual opportunity to ask God our Father, to apply the infinite merits of the Cross to the plight of our actual world, in atonement for our personal sins and in reparation for our sins as a Church. St. John Paul II incorporated this feast into the liturgical calendar while he was pontiff. He also insisted that it coincide with the Second Sunday of Easter. The Chaplet of Divine Mercy begins: “Holy Father, we offer you the body and blood, soul and divinity of our Lord Jesus Christ, in atonement of our sins and those of the whole world.” Since January 6, we have been struggling to contain our anger as armed perpetrators attempted to commit sedition in the very heart of American democracy:
our Capitol. Divine Mercy Sunday affords increase of gun violence in our society. us the opportunity to pray for our wounded Divine Mercy Sunday encourages us to recountry, for our enemies member those whose lives and those who are sufhave been destroyed or All of us should elicit scarred by social sins. The fering from injustice throughout the world. The the limitless merits of Chaplet concludes: “Holy Chaplet continues: “For God, Holy Mighty One, the sake of his sorrowful the Cross by appealing Holy Immortal One, have passion, have mercy on us to the Father, through mercy on us and upon the and on the whole world.” whole world.” Then, there are soJust because the liturthe Son and in the cial sins, not exclusively gical feast has passed does committed by Catholics Holy Spirit to mediate not preclude our ability to but by fellow humans, healing where there make this beautiful devoeither directly by acts or tional prayer part of our are wounds, forgive- spirituality throughout the indirectly by omission. After all, to do nothing is The font of Divine ness where there are year. also a moral choice. These Mercy does not dry up social sins would include sins, atonement where with the recitation of night abortion, euthanasia, and on the Second ontic evil eclipses the prayer embryonic stem cell use Sunday of Easter. All of in developing medicines. potential for holiness. us should elicit the limitSome would add silence less merits of the Cross in the wake of violence by appealing to the Father, against Asian- Americans, through the Son and in the and the inhumane treatment of “border Holy Spirit to mediate healing where there boys” crossing from Mexico into the United are wounds, forgiveness where there are States as social sins, as well as, the rampant sins, atonement where ontic evil eclipses
the potential for holiness. Divine Mercy inspires countless sinners like you and me, to look up at the Cross and repeat the words coined by St. Faustina Kowalska, author of the Divine Mercy Novena: “Jesus, I trust in you.” Why? Because, if you or I cannot trust in Jesus, who suffered and died on the Cross, out of love for us and, for our salvation, who, then, can we trust? “In the fullness of time, God sent us his only Son, not to condemn the world but to save it.” (Jn 3:16) Never have sweet words been uttered in the Gospel of John. In fact the whole purpose of his Gospel is for the reader to come to believe that Jesus is God. Who can we trust? Jesus! This is why the beautiful prayer “Te Deum” ends with the words “You are our hope. And in you, we shall never hope in vain.” This writer encourages all to keep the prayers of the Divine Mercy Chaplet close to the heart and repeat them often. Jesus is our hope, the embodiment of divine mercy. There can never be a greater; there will never be an other! Father Comandini is managing editor of “The Catholic Spirit”
Resurrection proved Jesus ‘truly was the son of God’
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Let me adapt to recent circumstances a thought-experiment theologian Hans Urs von Balthasar proposed decades ago:
Imagine that a friend contracts a severe case of COVID-19 and medicine can do no more for him. The doctors inform his widowed mother and us, so we gather with her for the final scene in the drama of this life. The ventilator is removed; the man grows weaker from lack of breath and whispers his final farewells. We hear the death-rattle. Then he expires and takes on the pallor of death. The mortician prepares the body for burial. With appropriate prayers, we consign our friend to the earth and, taking a cue from our Jewish friends,
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toss a clod of earth onto his coffin as it lies deep in the open grave. The grave is then closed and we leave for our homes, saddened, perhaps a bit disoriented, remembering our friend’s past and unsure about our own futures. Then two days later, our friend suddenly stands before us, like one just returned from a brief but important journey. He greets us by name. Physical barriers like doors mean nothing to him. What would happen to us? We would be stunned, incapable of knowing the appropriate reaction: shock, fear, overwhelming joy? What is happening shatters the boundaries of experience and strains emotion’s limits to the breaking point. Reality itself seems to be detonating around us. We wonder: Can this be real? Then our friend shows himself to us again and again, whole and renewed. He explains things as he used to do, eats with us, challenges us to be greater than we typically think we can be. He now seems to live in another dimension of existence — thoroughly human, but radiantly more so.
If you were sexually abused by a member of the clergy or anyone representing the Catholic Church, or you know of someone who was, you are encouraged to report that abuse to local law enforcement, the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency at 1-877-NJ ABUSE (652-2873) or 1-800-835-5510 (TTY/TDD for the deaf), and also the Diocesan Response Officer at (908) 930-4558 (24 hours/7 days a week).
By placing ourselves imaginatively in that situation today, we begin to get some idea of what the friends of Jesus experienced on Easter Sunday and in the period between that explosive day and his leave-taking, 40 days later. But there is more. For slowly and haltingly, those who met the Risen One, and those who believed what his closest friends said about him, came to understand that the now transfigured Rabbi Jesus of Nazareth “truly was the son of God” (Mk 15:39). A man had returned from a journey to the realm of the dead. Death, relentless in its finality, no longer had the last word about the human condition. What God had had in mind for humanity “in the beginning” (Gn 1:1) had been reclaimed by the Son of God for all who believed in him and bound themselves to his cause. So, history now seemed quite different to those first believers. History was no longer an arena of ultimate personal defeat. History, and our personal stories, they came to understand, played to a divine melody: everlasting communion with the Creator, disclosed in the Resurrection. What happened on Easter Sunday was the most explosive experience in human history, shattering all previous expectations of human destiny. Before Easter, some of the philosophically inclined imagined an immortal human soul; certain Jews expected what they called the resurrection of the dead at the end of history. But no one expected
this. For the Risen One was not a disembodied spirit (“…handle me and see, for a spirit has not flesh and bones as you see I have” (Lk 23:39), and the Risen One was alive in history, such that history continued in a transformed key. The first witnesses to the Resurrection were all Jewish and the dramatic ways in which these early Christians changed bear eloquent witness to the explosive nature of their experience of the Risen One. The Sabbath had been sacrosanct; now there was a new “Lord’s Day,” the Day of Resurrection. They once expected that the “end times” would ring down the curtain on history and the Kingdom of God would begin; now, they understood what Jesus had meant when he taught them that “the Kingdom of God is in the midst of you” (Lk 17:21) — they could live Kingdom life, life in union with God, here and now, through communion with the Lord Jesus in the Eucharist. And their understanding of their responsibilities changed. What they had experienced demanded to be proclaimed and shared, as they grasped the full implications of Jesus’s injunction, “Freely you have received, freely you must give” (Mt 10:8). They must offer friendship with the Risen One “to all nations” (Mt 28:19). The Easter explosion created a communion of disciples in mission. We are their heirs. We can bring light to a darkened world if we believe with the intensity they did.
VATICAN CITY — Pope Francis has named Salesian Sister Alessandra Smerilli undersecretary for faith and development at the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development. The 46-year-old Italian is an economist and professor of economy policy, an adviser to the governing office of Vatican City State, a consultant to the Synod of Bishops and coordinator of the economy task force of the Vatican’s COVID-19 commission. Sister Smerilli also is one of the driving forces behind the ongoing “Economy of Francesco” project, which is bringing together young economists and other young scholars searching for ways to make the economy more responsive to human dignity and more respectful of creation. She becomes the sixth female undersecretary of a Vatican office; two serve at the Dicastery for Laity, the Family and Life, and one each at the Synod of Bishops, the Vatican Secretariat of State and the Congregation for Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life. In a statement after the
announcement of her appointment March 24, Sister Smerilli said, “I will now strive to bring my expertise in the field of economics and the social doctrine of the Church to an ever more concrete service to the mission of the church and the Holy See. We are going through times of great trial in which the values on which humanity has always been founded are being questioned, in which individuals and families are suffering from a devastating social, political, anthropological and cultural crisis that the COVID-19 pandemic has contributed to exacerbate, and in which reference points are wavering.” Believers, in response, are called to rediscover what truly sustains them. Thanks to the contributions of “many colleagues, experts, academics and external partners, believers and nonbelievers,” she said, the Vatican COVID-19 commission has highlighted “how much humanity feels wounded and needs concrete answers and love to recover. We cannot go back to the old world. We need to prepare the future well.”
Compiled from the Catholic News Service
St. Joseph: needed example in ‘troubled times’ PORTLAND, Ore. — Joe and Millie Hoffman traveled a half hour from Beaverton, Ore., to attend the Mass for the feast of St. Joseph March 19 at St. Mary’s Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. St. Joseph is their man. Not only is Joe named for the earthly father of Jesus, but the whole family has consecrated themselves to the saint. For the past 15 years, the Hoffmans have prayed a novena leading up to March 19, and Joe looks to St. Joseph for help in being a good example of manhood and faith for his grandsons. During the Mass, Archbishop Alexander K. Sample said the saint “is a strong, silent, gracious, chaste husband and father. Boy, do we need his example today.” Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin of Newark struck a similar theme writing about the saint in the March 19 issue of his newsletter, “Rejoice in the Lord.” “St. Joseph is a man for all seasons, but his intercession and example are especially needed in troubled times.” Also on the feast day, the Capuchin Franciscans’ Province
WORLD & NATION
Religious becomes sixth female of Vatican office
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WORLD & NATION
Joe and Millie Hoffman are seen after the Mass for the feast of St. Joseph March 19, 2021, at St. Mary’s Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception in Portland, Ore. “He is the personal protector of our family,” said Millie. — CNS photo/Ed Langlois, Catholic Sentinel
of St. Conrad based in Denver unveiled “Joseph and the Franciscans,” a new web page: http://capuchins.org/ saint-joseph.
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT APRIL 15, 2021
OUR DIOCESE
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Academy’s publication recognized for excellence WATCHUNG – The 2020 issue of Mount Saint Mary Academy’s literary magazine, “Echoes,” earned the distinction of “Excellent” in the annual National Council of Teachers of English (NCTE) literary publication contest, said Dr. Joseph Bonk, English Department Chair at the institution, March 16. “The girls deserve high praise not just for the level of their achievement,
but for producing a magazine at all last year during a pandemic,” Bonk said. “In a normal year, close to 400 schools submit their publications. Last year, only 182 managed to do so. We were one of them. I’m very proud of the editors and staff!” In a joint statement, editors Tara Dsilva, a senior from Avenel, and Grace Schwartz, a junior from Whippany, said,
“Our time working on last year’s issue consisted of much adaptation and creativity. The whole process was difficult, but the final product was all we could have hoped for. “On top of everything, the pandemic made it even harder to coordinate the issue, but our team did not give up and we all worked hard, so seeing it be recognized is very gratifying.”
Hoops for Hunger Students at St. Matthew School, Edison, held a “Hoops for Hunger” food drive to replenish the parish’s Society of St. Vincent DePaul food pantry. The children dressed to show support for their favorite sports team and in exchange, they donated food items. It was also the school’s way to celebrate March Madness -- the NCAA basketball tournament, which was being held at the time. The food will be distributed to the needy and teaches the children to help others. Posing with the donations, clockwise from front left: Max Han, John Mandry, Paisley Bell, Rayha Kibet, James Jordan, Andrea Lopez, Isaiah Rogers, David Smith, Diego Barrera-Galvez, Alex Grullon and Audrey Morgenroth. — Joyce Schaefer photo
APRIL 15, 2021
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received from an angel in a dream assuring him to take Mary as his wife. METUCHEN — With the obvious ex- The bishop said, “When he woke ceptions of the various celebrations in up, he faced the decision whether he honor of our Blessed Mother, only two would act on his dream or simply walk saints have multiple feast days on the away from it.” It was in accepting the General Roman Calendar each year: St message of the dream that, “Joseph John the Baptist and St. Joseph. One the just man, becomes Joseph the holy of the days dedicated to the foster fa- man. He says, ‘yes,’ to the Lord. “That is how God works in our ther of Jesus Christ and protector of the Holy Family is March 19, when world — through people of faith who say, ‘yes,’ to the dream he is celebrated as the with which God inspires Spouse of the Blessed “[In Year of St. them,” the bishop continVirgin Mary. Joseph] we all ued. This year, that date He cited St. Theresa took on special imporneed to dream, of Calcutta and the Cathetance in the diocese, as it continued commemo- too, perhaps what dral’s patron, St. Francis Assisi, as examples of rating the Universal we need to do of others who acted upon Church’s yearlong celebration of the Year of in our own lives, dreams they received from the Lord. St. Joseph. The year was for our families, The bishop reminded proclaimed by the Holy Father last December on our friends, fellow the congregation that, “Although it may be inthe Solemnity of the Imbelievers in our spiring to dream God’s maculate Conception of it is holy to do God’s the Blessed Virgin Mary. neighborhoods, will, will.” In this Year of St. Many parishes chose the feast day as either in our diocese.” Joseph, he stated, “we all need to dream, too, perthe beginning or end of —Bishop James F. haps what we need to do novenas or other comChecchio in our own lives, for our memorations honoring families, our friends, felSt. Joseph. Bishop James F. Checchio pre- low believers in our neighborhoods, in sided at a special Mass on the feast of our diocese. This pandemic has made St. Joseph at the Cathedral of St. Fran- us all more aware of the need for God cis of Assisi. In his opening remarks, in ourselves and in our country.” Bishop Checchio challenged evthe bishop welcomed all who were in the congregation and specifically the eryone to ask themselves, “What is the young men from Saint Joseph High Lord asking me to dream about? And School, Metuchen, who were present then we need to say, ‘yes,’ to those to honor the patron saint of their in- dreams.” Dr. Jorge L. Gonzales-Gomez, stitution. In his homily, the bishop cited who served as a lector at the Mass, the Gospel’s first chapter of Matthew, felt, “The celebration was a spiriwhich recounts the message St. Joseph tual experience that fully captured the
OUR DIOCESE
By Deacon Patrick J. Cline
Above, after a Mass on the feast of St. Joseph at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Bishop James F. Checchio and John G. Nolan Jr., president, Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen, pose with students from the all-boys private preparatory school, from left: senior Michael McElwain; sophomore William Kwiatkowski; senior Andrew Dekovics; sophomores Jack Purcell and John Risley; and seniors Anthony Altobelli IV and Liam Harding. Right, Bishop Checchio gives the homily.
Before the final blessing, Bishop Checchio thanked everyone who planned and participated in the Mass. The bishop noted again the presence of a number of young men in the congregation and spoke of the need for vocations to the priesthood, not just in the diocese, but throughout the world. He asked all those present to pray not only for the 24 seminarians currently in formation for the diocese, but for more men to be inspired to hear the call of God and to say yes to serve him as priests. Deacon Cline exercises his ministry at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Whitehouse Station
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spirit of Pope Francis’ intentions when he proclaimed the Year of St. Joseph.” He believed that the number of participants in the Cathedral, even within the prescribed limits, demonstrated the thirst of the people of God to come back to our churches. John G. Nolan Jr., president of Saint Joseph High School, accompanied the students who attended the Mass. In discussing the experience with them afterward Nolan said, “they were honored and grateful to be selected to represent the student body.” In his five months heading the school, Nolan has been greatly impressed by the pride that exists at Saint Joseph in their patron saint. He also mentioned that the emphasis this year on the saint as a father resonates personally with him. He believes that as the patron of the Universal Church, St. Joseph is the patron of all families.
please pray for
After giving the Universal Prayer at Mass on the feast of St. Joseph, Bishop James F. Checchio offers a prayer to St. Joseph, foster father of Jesus and husband of Mary, in front of his statue, which had been placed behind the communion rail at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. — Marlo Williamson photos
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Bishop encourages faithful to emulate St. Joseph, be inspired by God
8 OUR DIOCESE
Oils used in Church rites blessed by bishop at annual Chrism Mass Continued from page 3
prompted nine million Mexicans to come to the faith, as well as prayer and recitation of the rosary will help imbue the priests with their upcoming outreach, Bishop Checchio asserted. So will self-examination. “This is a unique time in our own lives as priests to review what we have learned about ourselves,” the bishop said. “How has our friendship with Christ deepened, or has it? Has your zeal for ministry grown or dimmed in this time?” Rely on the Cross, Bishop Checchio advised the presbyterate, and added, “Our Lord always awaits us. You and I have been mysteriously chosen to make him sacramentally present to our people, right now, 2021, even in the midst of a pandemic to build up his kingdom in the Church of Metuchen. “God has not forgotten us. He loves us more than we can know, and has chosen us for work beyond our measure,” the bishop concluded. “Let us joyfully say ‘yes’ once again from the depths of our hearts.” After his homily, Bishop Checchio addressed the clergy once again as they stood to reaffirm their priestly vows. He noted that the Chrism Mass marked the anniversary when Christ had conferred his priesthood on his apostles,
then asked if they were “resolved to be more united with the Lord Jesus and closely conformed to him… to be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God… to discharge faithfully the sacred office of teaching… moved only by zeal for souls?” To each question, the priests replied as one, “I am.” The rite, which gives the Chrism Mass its name, is the blessing of three distinct oils by the bishop. The traditional procession was omitted in this pandemic year; the Oil of the Sick, to be used on the infirm during the sacrament of the anointing of the sick, was consecrated during the Liturgy of the Eucharist. The Oil of Catechumens, used to baptize new Catholics, and the Sacred Chrism used to anoint the heads of the newly baptized and confirmed, the hands of a priest at his ordination, and the altar and walls of new churches — rested upon tables in the sanctuary. To consecrate the Chrism, Bishop Checchio poured a sweet-smelling balm perfume into the olive oil, then breathed over it. He invited his fellow priests to extend their right hands in blessing and asked God to fill the chrism with the power of the Holy Spirit. The oils were taken back to each parish in the diocese for use throughout this liturgical year.
Above, priests from the diocese reaffirm their priestly vows at the annual Chrism Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. Right, Bishop James F. Checchio consecrates the Sacred Chrism, which is used to anoint the heads of the newly baptized and confirmed, the hands of a priest at his ordination, and the altar and walls of new churches. Bishop Checchio is assisted by Brother Steve Bolton, a seminarian from the diocese who is a triennial member of the Congregation of the Oratory, St. Ann Parish, Raritan Borough. — Frank Wojciechowski photos
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APRIL 15, 2021
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One’s Catholic faith and moral directives need not prohibit them from receiving the available COVID-19 vaccines, assured Catholic bioethicist John F. Brehany at a virtual town hall meeting sponsored by Saint Peter’s University Hospital (SPUH), New Brunswick, March 17. “This issue has been bubbling along for decades,” said Brehany, “Using abortion-derived cell lines from aborted tissue is standard vaccine production. This [coronavirus] vaccine has made people think about the issue in a different way. We have to think ‘what are we going to do in the here and now?’” Leslie D. Hirsch, president and chief executive officer, Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, welcomed employees to the hospital’s first quarterly virtual town hall meeting about implementation of Saint Peter’s University Hospital’s ERDs, or the ethical and religious directives for Catholic health care services. “As a Catholic, faith-based healthcare institution, our mission is based on Jesus’ healing ministry,” said Hirsch. “This distinction is what makes us who we are… a workforce of individuals who serve as advocates whose decisions are made and rooted in our Catholic mission. This is important as we come to know more about how to relate to relevant and current issues that confront us.” Hirsch introduced keynote speaker Brehany, director, Institutional Relations for The National Catholic Bioethics Center, who leads implementation of its Catholic Identity and Ethics Review program. He is a consultant on a range of clinical and institutional issues and teaches in the NCBC’s certification program. Brehany earned a doctorate in health care ethics
at Saint Louis University; a licentiate in Sacred Theology of Marriage and Family at the John Paul II Institute for Studies on Marriage and Family in Washington, D.C.; a master’s degree in philosophy at the University of St. Thomas in Houston; and a bachelor’s degree at the University of San Francisco. Brehany discussed three key issues of the vaccine’s ethics dilemma: the relationship between vaccines and past abortions; the importance of appropriately protecting one’s own life, and protecting and promoting the common good. The first line of human aborted cells was used to make vaccines as far back as 1962, Brehany told the attendees, but the Church has reflected for centuries about living in integrity to please God. “It is a challenge to live in the world. We are involved with many who do not share our point of view,” said Brehany. In response, the Catholic Church invented the Principle of Legitimate Cooperation — avoid sharing or affirming someone else’s moral evil; do not be closely or essentially involved in immoral action, and, for a sufficient reason, it may be permissible to be involved in or connected with someone else’s unethical actions. “According to the 2005 Pontifical Academy for Life’s ‘Moral Reflections,’ it was wrong to do the abortion, and work with the cells, but what about parents vaccinating their children, or us using the COVID vaccine 40-odd years later? We should protest this unjust situation, and should demand and use alternatives when possible,” Brehany said, “but we can make use of the vaccines.” Last December, the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith decreed that it was morally acceptable to use the COVID-19 vaccines manufactured by Moderna and Pfizer, he said, but use of the Johnson &
OUR DIOCESE
By Christina Leslie Correspondent
9
Catholic bioethicist discusses dilemma of vaccines for coronavirus
In screenshots, above, Leslie D. Hirsch, president and chief executive officer, Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, New Brunswick, welcomes participants to a virtual town hall meeting; and John F. Brehany, director, Institutional Relations for The National Catholic Bioethics Center, gives the keynote address. Johnson vaccine is allowed only if no alternatives are available. Brehany continued, “It is important to make a free decision based on sound criteria. Emotions can be a gift, but our decision should not be dictated by emotions.” Quoting the Catechism of the Catholic Church, he said, “Life and physical health are precious gifts entrusted to us by God. We must take reasonable care of them, taking into account the needs of others and the common good.” (CCC 2288) Lastly, Brehany reminded his audience of medical professionals, the Church acknowledges that humans need and benefit from communities. Their decisions about taking the COVID-19 vaccine may
promote and protect the common good, and their patients should be educated about the vaccines so they might make free and informed decisions on their use. Following a question-and-answer session with SPUH’s Dr. Henry Redel, Chief of Infectious Disease, and Linda Carroll, vice president of Patient Care Services and Chief Nursing Officer, Brehany reiterated that effective vaccines and strong ethical oversight need not be mutually exclusive. “We are in a tough spot, and we have to try to find the best way forward,” the doctor concluded. “It’s not easy, but we have to struggle ahead and do all the good we can.”
visibility and representation of nursing leadership on many levels, including its presence on the Board of Governors. In addition, weekly chief nursing officer/director unit rounds are practiced, as well as director/ nurse manager rounds, enabling leadership to be physically present to support staff. Visibility of nursing leadership has had a direct impact on staff engagement and satisfaction. Further evidence that the wellbeing and resiliency of the nursing staff is valued and supported by hospital leadership includes the establishment of relaxation areas for staff. “The Sanctuary,” created by volunteers from nursing and the medical staff during the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, remains space designed to help staff escape from the demands of the day — to re-energize — which is critical to managing stress. It offers interior and exterior space with lounge and massage chairs, hammocks, music, aromatherapy and a tea cart. In addition, a Sanctuary satellite opened on one of the hospital’s clinical care areas to provide easy
access for nursing staff. “I have spent my entire career as a nurse at Saint Peter’s,” said Carroll. “My longevity here is a testament to Saint Peter’s culture of excellence and Catholic mission of caring for and ministering to our patients and to one another, and to our commitment in promoting a healthy work environment, excellence in healthcare outcomes and ongoing education. I am extremely proud to have been a member of the Saint Peter’s nursing staff for more than 30 years and to lead an exemplary nursing staff with whom I share a special comradery and dedication to our craft.” “We are proud of our success in transforming our work environment into an organization where nurses understand they are valued, safe and supported by every level of the organization, from peer to manager to senior leadership,” said Lisa Drumbore, Vice President of Marketing and Communications, Chief Patient Experience Officer at Saint Peter’s.
Diocesan-sponsored hospital receives prestigious award for excellence
APRIL 15, 2021
ficer, Saint Peter’s Healthcare System. “I think that was truly demonstrated throughout the pandemic when many nurses were re-deployed to new assignments, adjusting to new responsibilities and new supervisors, yet always responding to the challenges with grace and determination to care for our most critically ill patients.” During the COVID-19 pandemic, the staff requested a forum to share their experiences and with the support of Linda Carroll, MSN, RN-BC — Saint Peter’s vice president of Patient Care Services and chief nursing officer — a nurse-driven support group known as “Masks Off” was created. The forum provided a safe place for staff to discuss the novel experiences that the pandemic experience presented, allowing them to share emotions and insights with others who were experiencing the same thing. The positive benefits were seen in the way the program impacted the emotional wellbeing of the clinical staff. The hospital is also committed to the
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
Saint Peter’s University Hospital, New Brunswick, a member of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, is the recipient of the 2021 Clinical Healthy Work Environment Award presented by Sigma, an organization that empowers nursing leaders to transform global healthcare. The award recognizes and honors a clinical facility that demonstrates commitment in promoting a healthy work environment and excellence in healthcare outcomes. Applicants for the prestigious award were evaluated based on the creation of a healthy work environment as demonstrated by new programs with involvement of frontline healthcare workers and sustained programming addressing healthcare workers’ needs, along with evidence of positive patient outcomes. “At Saint Peter’s we minister to the whole person, body and spirit, something that is exemplified everyday by our extraordinary nursing staff,” said Leslie D. Hirsch, FACHE, president and chief executive of-
10 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT APRIL 15, 2021
Bishop encourages seniors to continue as keepers of the faith By Christina Leslie Correspondent METUCHEN — Standing beneath a stained glass window depicting the visitation of the angel Gabriel to the Blessed Virgin Mary, Bishop James F. Checchio told the seniors seated before him, “Like Mary, you are deeply aware of the presence of God in your lives. You, too, model discipleship in our day.” Seniors citizens and the religious who care for them in healthcare facilities celebrated their integral role in the faith life of the diocese at a Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. Celebrated March 25, the Solemnity of the Annunciation, the liturgy marked the first diocesan event to commemorate the Year of the Family. “We honor our seniors and pray for them,” the bishop told the faithful at the Cathedral and watching via livestream. He recognized the efforts of three orders that care for the seniors — the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, who staff St. Joseph Senior Home, Woodbridge; the Sisters of Mercy, who care for the sick and elderly in McAuley Hall Healthcare Center, Watchung; and the Little Sisters of the Poor, whose charism is exercised in Flemington — noting, “You have been
On the Solemnity of the Annunciation, Bishop James F. Checchio celebrated a Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi during which seniors were honored. Above, the bishop is with religious from three orders which care for seniors - the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception, the Sisters of Mercy, and the Little Sisters of the Poor. in our hearts and our prayers.” In his homily, Bishop Checchio said Mary was the ideal disciple, and her freely-given “yes” to carry the Son of God in her womb “was the jubilant door through which God entered the world becoming man.” “She prepared herself by prayer, opened herself to God and his will… she was the first missionary by sharing
the Good News with her cousin, Elizabeth,” he added. Bishop Checchio charged the seniors to continue their important role as keepers of the faith, saying: “Speak with and to God. Be a missionary. Bring the presence of Christ into the world by what you say and do.” Calling them an inspiration during this past year of COVID-19’s forced isolation and sacrifice, Bishop Checchio urged them to continue their example of faith for the young. “You, too, model discipleship in our day. Children need that example and you clearly provide it for them,”
Bishop Checchio greets seniors who attended a Mass honoring all senior citizens. Calling seniors an inspiration during the pandemic’s forced isolation and sacrifice, the bishop charged them to continue as keepers of the faith as well as their example of faith for the young. “Like Mary, you are deeply aware of the presence of God in your lives and model discipleship in our day,” he said.
— Mike Ehrmann photos
he said. “Seminarians reference their grandparents’ faith for reawakening their faith or for being a priest. Know it provides you a strong, solid foundation in their lives. Your examples will come back to them. Never doubt it.” To mark the fifth-year anniversary of his apostolic exhortation “Amoris Laetitia, The Joy of Love,” Pope Francis has designated March 19, 2021, through June 26, 2022 as the Year of the Family. In her column from the March 25 issue of “The Catholic Spirit,” Jennifer Ruggiero, secretary, diocesan Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life, described how a seniorcentered event held value for faithful of all ages. “It can be an opportunity to be reminded that our elderly brothers and sisters have lived a life of ‘fiat’ and, in their golden years, are profound witnesses of saying ‘yes’ to God over and over again,” she wrote. “As we begin this year of the family, let us express our profound gratitude for the many ways in which faithful and generous older Catholics have built — and continue to build — the Church.” Sister of Christian Charity Anna Nguyen, delegate for Religious in the diocese, expressed her thanks for the religious orders with the charism of caring for seniors throughout the diocese. “The seniors have been impacted significantly during the pandemic,” Sister Anna said. “Our grandparents are needed, they are special, and they are our example of Mary’s fiat.”
Visit www.LifeChoicesRC.com to link to the movie ($12.99) Available from LCRC until April 26, 2021
Solemn Celebration
OUR DIOCESE
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A Solemn High Mass for the Solemnity of the Annunciation of the Lord was celebrated at Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church, Middlesex, March 25. The Solemnity of the Annunciation celebrates the angel Gabriel being sent from God to the Virgin Mary to announce to her the mission he had chosen for her in being the mother of his only son. Father David Skoblow, pastor, Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish, presided; Father Michael Barone of the Archdiocese of Newark served as a deacon and Father Edmund A. Luciano III, subdeacon.
LifeChoices@optonline.net or call 732-516-0911 www.LifeChoicesRC.com
— photo courtesy of Pat Sommero
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Saint Peter’s Healthcare System (Saint advance health care quality, affordability Peter’s) and Horizon Blue Cross Blue and the customer experience. Saint PeShield of New Jersey (Horizon BCB- ter’s and Horizon BCBSNJ will continue SNJ) announced April 7 that they have our long history of collaboration to further agreed to end their dispute over Horizon enhance this partnership to improve the BCBSNJ’s OMNIA Health Plans. health and well-being of those we serve.” For many years, Saint Peter’s and “We are indeed very pleased that Horizon BCBSNJ have worked closely Saint Peter’s has reached a settlement to provide high quality, cost-effective with Horizon BCBSNJ to end the liticare to Horizon members. The settlement gation and to put this issue behind us,” builds on their shared historyand ac- said said Leslie D. Hirsch, FACHE, celerates the deployment of value-based president and chief executive officer of care and reimbursement models that are Saint Peter’s Healthcare System. an essential element of OMNIA Health “We have always valued our longPlans’ success. As a result, Saint Peter’s standing relationship and look forward will become a Tier 1 facility in Horizon’s to working together to advance our colOMNIA Health Plans effective May 1. lective missions to serve the health care The parties issued a joint statement: needs of our patients and communities.” “We are pleased to have reached an agreeConsistent with other aspects of ment settling our legal dispute. Instead of the relationship between the two parcontinuing to focus on our differences, ties, the terms of the agreement will we look forward to workingCare together to remain confidential. Family Placement,
12 OUR DIOCESE
SYLVIA and ANGIE THANK YOU & GOD BLESS YOU for your dedicated service to our school, faculty and parents
Perth Amboy Catholic School Administration, Students, Faculty & Parents
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APRIL 15, 2021
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Mrs. Maryann Brown Administrative Assistant Office of Student Services Mrs. Ann Chen Attendance & Transportation Coordinator Ms. Jody D’Amato Administrative Assistant Athletics Mrs. Jennifer East School Office Manager
Mount Saint Mary Academy
1645 US Highway 22, Watchung, NJ 07069 • (908) 757-0108 www.mountsaintmary www. mountsaintmary.org .org
Nancy Escarlen Darlene, Maria and Tina With our love and appreciation for all you do in support of our parish and school. St. Philip & St. James Church and School Phillipsburg
eternal life with him. “While the pandemic this past year is a crisis and has certainly METUCHEN — A hushed congrega- caused pain, suffering and isolation,” tion seated in near-darkness inside Bishop Checchio admitted, “Christ’s the Cathedral of St. Francis of As- resurrection gives us the gift of life, sisi heard a message of hope and joy- new joy and of light. [It] is our hope. “In the midst of filled life April 3 durthis pandemic year, ing the celebration “Let us celebrate all this Easter we need to of the Easter Vigil. Once Bishop James F. the blessings Easter make room for the saving risen Lord Jesus Checchio ignited then brings us. Jesus Christ in our lives, in incensed, the Paschal candle in the sanctu- desires to fill us with our hearts, in our families, our parishes, our ary, a cantor sang the the light of his love diocese, our commu“Exsultet,” or Easter he said. “God Proclamation, and and his mercy, and nities,” really, truly, uncondilectors read Old and New Testament pas- we are asked to share tionally loves us.” Bishop Checchio sages that shared the salvation history of that life with all that told his flock, “We reGod’s people from we encounter each ally need Easter to help us during this time of the world’s creation to the ministry of day, in our words and strife… Let us celall the blessings Christ. actions and how we ebrate Easter brings us. Jesus “How we need desires to fill us with the light of life this live our lives.” the light of his love year,” the bishop —Bishop James F. Checchio and his mercy, and we said in his homily to are asked to share that the pandemic-weary congregation. “We know that night life with all that we encounter each can be a time of silence, darkness and day, in our words and actions and aloneness. It can also be a place of how we live our lives.” The Easter Vigil is traditionally fear and danger… Easter proclaims that Christ, the light of the world, the liturgy when people throughout is truly risen. That fact of faith, that the world, after a period of preparaclaim is proclaimed and celebrated on tion and instruction, are inspired to formally join the ranks of believers in this holy day.” Christ’s rising from the dead two the Catholic Church. Throughout the millennia ago prompted a whole new Diocese of Metuchen, some 66 men, world and value system to arise, he women and young adults from 21 parcontinued, a new way of being a hu- ishes were initiated into the faith that man person with the possibility of evening.
OUR DIOCESE
By Christina Leslie Correspondent
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Bishop presides at Easter Vigil at Cathedral of St. Francis of Assissi
Above, Bishop James F. Checchio (right) raises the paten holding the bread at the Easter Vigil at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. Deacon Rick Fortune, who exercises his ministry at the Cathedral, assists. Right, Bishop Checchio greets a mother and daughter after the liturgy. Below, Bishop Checchio and Msgr. Robert J. Zamorski, rector of the Cathedral, give holy Communion. Throughout the Diocese of Metuchen, about 66 men, women and young adults from 21 parishes were initiated into the Church that evening.
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— Frank Wojciechowski photos
APRIL 15, 2021
Above and right, on Easter Sunday at Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church, Middlesex, Bishop James F. Checchio (raising the host) presided at Mass. Right, worshipers pray the “Our Father.” According to parish records, Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church was named for Our Lady of Mount Virgin Cathedral near Avellino, Italy. Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church — the second in the parish’s history — was completed in 1971.
OUR DIOCESE 14
Traditional Rites
Above, Bishop James F. Checchio (second from right) carries a chalice containing the Blessed Sacrament and reserve hosts to the Altar of Repose at Mass Holy Thursday at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. Left, some worshipers at the Mass Holy Thursday, also known as Mass of the Lord’s Supper, stayed to adore the Blessed Sacrament at a holy hour. Below left, during the Solemn Liturgy of the Passion and Death of Our Lord on Good Friday at the Cathedral, Bishop Checchio raises a crucifix in front of the barren altar for the faithful to adore. Below, participants recreate the Via Crucis or stations of the cross at outside St. Joseph Church, Carteret.
APRIL 15, 2021
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— John Batkowski, Marlo Williamson and Frank Wojciechowski photos
15 OUR DIOCESE
Above, on Good Friday at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, because the Church is mourning the death of Christ, Bishop Checchio, clergy and deacons prostrate themselves in front of the cross in response to the sorrow. Above right, Father Abraham Orapankal (right), pastor, St. Matthias Parish, Somerset, prays during the consecration; Deacon Russell B. Demkovitz assists. Right, Bishop Checchio, assisted by Father John Stec, pastor, St. Mary of Czestochowa Parish, Bound Brook, leads the Blessing of the Food at Mass Holy Saturday at St. Mary of Czestochowa Church. Below and below left, Bishop Checchio gives the homily and incenses the altar at Mass Easter Sunday at Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church, Middlesex; Deacon Thomas G. Sommero assists. Left, some worshipers at Mass at St. Mary of Czestochowa Church sit with food for blessing. A Polish tradition is to bring baskets containing a sampling of Easter foods to church to be blessed on Holy Saturday. When the faithful eat the blessed food on Easter Sunday, they recall that Christ is the source of their true nourishment.
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT APRIL 15, 2021
16 OUR DIOCESE
Holy Week St. Matthias, Somerset, and St. Helena, Edison, were among the parishes in the diocese that celebrated Masses and held prayer services during Holy Week. Left, Father Abraham Orapankal, pastor, St. Matthias Parish, gives the homily from the ambo at St. Matthias Church on Easter Sunday. Above, members of St. Matthias Parish participated in living stations of the cross on Good Friday. Right, Father Anthony M. Sirianni, pastor, St. Helena Parish, raises the chalice during the consecration at an outdoor sunrise Mass on Easter Sunday. — Marlo Williamson and St. Helena Parish photos
Mother of son shot to death delivers emotional Good Friday talk
APRIL 15, 2021
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
By Joanne Ward KENDALL PARK — It was a faith witness, filled with emotion and delivered on Good Friday that most who heard will remember. Father Robert G. Lynam, pastor of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, invited U.S. District Judge Esther Salas to speak to his parishioners. On July 19, Daniel Salas, the only son of the judge was killed at his home by a gunman posing as a delivery driver. Judge Salas began her talk saying that with the exception of her son’s funeral, Good Friday was her and her husband’s first day back in St. Augustine’s since their tragedy. Then she said, “I want to take my time and talk about faith, forgiveness and love.” “I would not be standing here if it was not for my love of God and my faith,” she said. It was faith, she added, that kept her and her husband, Mark, from falling apart when, as she put it, “evil came to our door.” Reflecting on the day Daniel was killed, Judge Salas said, “the day started so beautifully and ended so tragically.” With her voice breaking, she recalled how her son thanked his father and her “for the best weekend ever.” They had hosted a birthday cel-
ebration for Daniel. It was a weekend after the shooting, however, “I felt a that was filled with “love, laughter gentle nudge from above. My faith in and joy,” the judge said. God woke me up that day and I have It was the special bond that Judge continued to rely on his strength ever Salas has with her son that she spoke since.” She said she and her husband of next. “In his short did not reject God but life, we talked all embraced Him. “In his short life, we the time,” she said, Faith has guided adding “meaningful Judge Salas and Mark talked all the time, conversations were as they journey in she said, adding not unusual” for life. Indeed, it was them. Through tears, “meaningful conversa- their faith that led Judge Salas, related them to forgiveness. how on the day he tions were not unusual” “Mark forgave the died, Daniel said, shooter just days after “Keep talking to me for them. Through tears, he himself was shot mom. I love talking and was struggling Judge Salas, related to you.” It was then to live in the ICU,” that the doorbell rang how on the day he died, the judge said. She and Daniel, who was then admitted that at Daniel said, “keep in the basement with the time, she wasn’t talking to me mom. ready to forgive the his mom, ran upstairs to answer the door. but forgiveI love talking to you.” shooter, Overtaken by emoness would come. tion, the judge said in After Mark was It was then that the a halting voice, “Our released from the doorbell rang... life would be changed hospital, he and the forever.” judge found a temShe said when porary home. “Going told her son had died, she went “to back to our old home was not an opa dark place.” The first few days af- tion,” Judge Salas said. Every week ter the shooting Judge Salas said she Father Lynam went to their home to was in a “catatonic state.” Three days offer Mass for them. At one of the
Judge Esther Salas, whose only son was shot to death, reflects on faith, forgiveness and love at St. Augustine Parish on Good Friday. — Barbara Corio, photo early Masses, in his homily Father Lynam spoke about Jesus and how Jesus had to forgive Peter three times. The judge recalled that it was then holding Mark’s hand that forgiveness came to her. Weeping, she said, “I bowed my head and said, ‘God I forgive him. God I forgive him. God I forgive him.’ And as tears rolled down Continued on page 24
an extended family of loving nieces, nephews, and cousins. Internment was at St. Patrick Cemetery in Belvidere. Memorial contributions can be
made in Deacon Dumschat’s memory. to Helyar House Scholarship at Rutgers University or St. Patrick Parish. Arrangements were handled by MacFadden Funeral Home, Belvidere.
OUR DIOCESE
Pallbearers carry the casket holding the remains of Deacon John F. Dumschat after a funeral Mass at St. Patrick Church. Deacon Dumschat, right, died March 22. He exercised his ministry for 33 years at St. Patrick Parish, which included serving as a chaplain at Mountainview Youth Correctional Facility, Annandale.
— Ed Koskey Jr. photos
APRIL 15, 2021
Above, Father Charles A. Sabella, pastor, St. Patrick Parish, gives the homily from the ambo at St. Patrick Church. Father Sabella first met Deacon Dumschat at an earlier assignment at St. Patrick’s. Right, Father Sabella incenses the casket holding the remains of Deacon Dumschat, who served in the U.S. Army as a sergeant during the Vietnam War and was awarded two Bronze Stars for valor.
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
then pastor of St Patrick, agreed to be his sponsor. Sarah, aware of her husband’s “love of God and deep faith in BELVIDERE — Family and friends Catholicism,” was not surprised by his of Deacon John F. Dumschat gathered interest in the diaconate. While Deacon Dumschat enjoyed with the members of St. Patrick Parish at his funeral Mass at St. Patrick all aspects of his ministry, he said that he especially, “loved baptizing Church March 29. Deacon Dumschat, who died the babies of the parish.” He was also March 22 at the age of 77, had served privileged to have been able to baptize that parish for 33 years before he re- his two youngest daughters and three tired in 2016. The love and apprecia- of his grandchildren as well as to oftion of the parishioners for those many ficiate at the marriage of one of his years of diaconal service were very daughters. He believed that “the biggest challenge was trying to balance evident at the Mass. “A man solidly grounded in his the diaconate with a full-time job and faith,” was how Father Charles A. full-time family life.” Throughout years Sabella, pastor, St. Patrick Parish, “The men in that class of parochial service his many activities, described Deacon developed a great included religious eduDumschat in his homily. Father Sa- sense of camaraderie cation, nursing home visitation, facilitating bella, who presided at the Mass, knew during their formation the Protecting God’s program at him from an earlier and we always relied Children St. Patrick’s and teachassignment in the upon each other... ing natural family parish and rememclasses. bered how deeply [Deacon Dumschat] planning In addition, he was devoted he was to his family and par- “was very strong in his involved in prison ministry, including serving ish. faith and always had as chaplain supervisor On May 7, 1983, at Mountainview Youth Deacon Dumschat a smile on his face. Correctional Facilwas one of 11 men ordained as perma- Everyone was comfort- ity, Annandale. He also as a youth minnent deacons in the able around him and served ister at St. Jude Parish, first formation class for the then-recently he always had a great Blairstown, and was a member of the dioerected Diocese of story to tell.” cese’s Cursillo team. Metuchen. The men —Deacon Lawrence P. Reilly Deacon Stephen had been prepared in F. Kern, director, diocthe Diocese of Trenesan Office of the Diaton and they joined more than a dozen other deacons who had been ordained conate, remembers Deacon Dumschat, initially for Trenton and incardinated “as a man of deep personal integrity, strong in faith and strong in family.” into Metuchen at its establishment. “He was not a big talker but when he Deacon Dumschat was born in Newark to the late Frank and Martha spoke, you listened,” Deacon Kern said. Deacon Lawrence P. Reilly, who Dumschat and was raised in Kearny. He attended St. Stephen School, Ke- serves at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, arny, and Essex Catholic High School, Piscataway, was ordained with DeaNewark. After graduating from Rut- con Dumschat. “The men in that class developed gers University with a degree in agricultural sciences, he served in the a great sense of camaraderie during U.S. Army as a sergeant during the their formation and we always relied Vietnam War and was awarded two upon each other,” he said. He rememBronze Stars for valor. After his mili- bers that Deacon Dumschat, “was very tary service, he returned to Rutgers, strong in his faith and always had a where he earned a Master’s Degree in smile on his face. Everyone was comfortable around him and he always had agricultural education. In October 1970, he and Sarah El- a great story to tell.” Besides his loving wife of 50 len Quinn were married and lived in several locations in New Jersey before years, Deacon Dumschat is survived moving to Warren County in 1981, by their sons and daughters and their where he managed a dairy farm that spouses: John and Jen, Laura Richter and Chris, Paul and Traci, Anne Dumsthe couple eventually bought. When he read in the late 1970s chat, Sarah Bradford and Billy and Tethat the Diocese of Trenton was seek- resa Dumschat; seven grandchildren, ing candidates for a new formation Michael, Trinity, John, Logan, Dylan, class for permanent deacons he be- Elijah, and Adelyn; sisters, Betty Ann lieved, “I was open to a call to serve McCall and Joe, Mary Piwowarski; at the altar.” Father Michael Driscoll, sister-in-law, Sylvia Dumschat; and By Deacon Patrick J. Cline Correspondent
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Member of diocese’s first deacon class mourned at funeral Mass
APRIL 15, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
OUR FAITH
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Moral acceptability of COVID vaccines Pope Francis
Question Corner
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March 24, 2021 Today the catechesis is dedicated to prayer in communion with Mary. It occurs precisely on the Vigil of the Solemnity of the Annunciation. We know that the main pathway of Christian prayer is the humanity of Jesus. In fact, the confidence typical of Christian prayer would be meaningless if the Word had not become incarnate, giving us in the Spirit His filial relationship with the Father. We heard in the Scripture of the gathering of the disciples, the pious women and Mary, praying after Jesus’s Ascension. The first Christian community was awaiting Jesus’s gift, Jesus’s promise…. She occupies a privileged place in the lives of Christians, and therefore, in their prayer as well, because she is the Mother of Jesus. The Eastern Churches have often depicted her as the Odigitria, the one who “shows the way”; and the way is her Son, Jesus Christ. The beautiful, ancient painting of the Odigitria in the Cathedral of Bari comes to my mind. It is simple. The Madonna who shows Jesus, naked; then they put a shirt on him to cover his nakedness, but the truth is that Jesus is naked, he himself, man, born of Mary, is the Mediator. And she indicates the Mediator: she is the Odigitria. Her presence is everywhere in Christian iconography, sometimes very prominently, but always in relation to her Son and in connection with Him. Her hands, her eyes, her behavior are a living “catechism”, always indicating the hinge, she always points out the center: Jesus. Mary is completely directed toward Him (see CCC, 2674) to such an extent that we can say she is more disciple than Mother. The directions she gave at the wedding at Cana: “He: do whatever he will tell you”. She always refers to Christ. She is the first disciple….
Queen of Heaven Queen of Heaven, rejoice, Alleluia! For he whom you were worthy to bear, Alleluia! Has risen as he said Alleluia! Pray for us to God, Alleluia!
By Father Kenneth Doyle I have read that the Johnson & Johnson vaccine has a connection with aborted fetuses. Now that this vaccine has been approved for use, does one have a moral obligation to request one of the other vaccines? Or is it morally acceptable to take whatever is available at a particular site? (Middletown, N.J.)
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In December 2020 — two months prior to the U.S. Food
and Drug Administration’s approval of the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine — the Vatican’s doctrinal congregation said that, when alternative vaccines are not available, it is morally acceptable to receive COVID-19 vaccines developed or tested using cell lines originating from aborted fetuses. The Vatican went on to explain that the “moral duty to avoid such passive material cooperation is not obligatory if there is a grave danger, such as the otherwise uncontainable spread of a serious pathological agent.” In a March 4 video, Bishop Kevin C. Rhoades of Fort Wayne-South Bend, Ind., the chairman of the U.S. bishops’ Committee on Doctrine, said that the Johnson & Johnson COVID-19 vaccine “can be used in good conscience.”
He also made a March 2 statement in conjunction with Archbishop Joseph F. Naumann of Kansas City, Kan., chairman of the bishops’ Committee on Pro-Life Activities, that if a choice of vaccines is available, “the vaccine with the least connection to abortion-derived cell lines should be chosen.” So, the answer to your question, it would seem, is that if you have a choice, you should opt for the Moderna or the Pfizer vaccine; but if the only one available to you is Johnson & Johnson, you may take that, and there’s no need to postpone vaccination until you have a choice. Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@ gmail.com and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, NY 12203.
God, healing can be experienced in nature There may come a time when a sense of depletion, and doubt about how to move forward, overtakes us. The experience is not just limited to life during a pandemic, though it certainly doesn’t make life any easier.
Sometimes we find help from unexpected sources. For me it was the documentary, “My Octopus Teacher.” The awardwinning film chronicled a year in the life of Craig Foster, who had returned to his childhood passion, diving in the bone-chilling waters off the southern tip of Africa, in an attempt to heal from a debilitating depression and rediscover his purpose in life. Foster found that the healing power of the ocean included a very special relationship with an unexpected cephalopod friend. He first discovered her as she was hiding within a self-made turret of various shells held in place by the suction cups on her legs. A short time later, he would watch her build a similar structure as she tried to fend off a shark attack. From that first moment, he made the decision to spend time with her every day for a little more than a year, the average life expectancy for an octopus. During this time, he would learn an amazing amount of information about her habits, her intelligence and, even, her personality. He would also go from being a potential predator to a companion who, at times, was allowed to accompany her on a hunt, or a friend who would benefit from an octopus hug or a
How much he sounded like Pope bit of tentacle holding. What I saw unfolding during his Francis, who reminds us of the Frandaily visits was a human being with ciscan wisdom of St. Bonaventure, who the ability to be sensitive to the needs said that creation is the first ‘book’ that of another creature and an abiding trust God opens before our eyes, so that, developing between them. The first time marveling at its order, its variety and its she reached out her tentacle to touch beauty, we can come to love and praise Foster’s hand and leave it there for a its Creator. In this book, every creature while I was moved to tears. How silly, becomes for us ‘a word of God.’ “In the silence of prayer, we can one might think. But in the give and take of this un- hear the symphony of creation calling us to abandon our selfusual relationship, amid the incredible beauty of a kelp "In the silence centeredness in order to feel embraced by the tender love forest, it was easy to see the of prayer, we of the Father and to share workings of God, who, we with joy the gifts we have are taught, can be undercan hear the received. We can even say stood and seen through the that creation, as a network things God has made. symphony of of life, a place of encounter Foster’s story reminded me of the many creation calling us with the Lord and one anscientists and naturalists to abandon our other, is ‘God’s own ‘social network.’” who have shared their healCertainly, that’s a soing experiences in nature, self-centeredness cial network much better for including John Burroughs, in order to feel the human spirit, especially an eminent American nature essayist and favorite embraced by the the spirit of a child, than the technology to which we’ve of my father, probably betender love of become so addicted. cause Burroughs was born Pope Francis also warns, and raised in the Catskills, the Father..." “We are losing our attitude of relatively close to our famwonder, of contemplation, of ily home in Albany, N.Y., listening to creation and thus where my dad and I often spent Saturdays walking the trails and we no longer manage to interpret within being immersed in the magic of the Hel- it what Benedict XVI calls ‘the rhythm of the love-story between God and man.’” derbergs. We may never become divers or “I go to nature to be soothed, healed and have my senses put in order,” wrote make friends with an octopus, but even Burroughs, something I had long ago a walk in the park and some fresh air can be restorative. Our connection forgotten — much to my detriment. In a news interview last year, Foster with nature is essential for the good of said that the greatest lesson the octopus all. When our wonder and awe of the taught him is that humans are part of the mystery of creation diminishes and we natural world, and not simply visitors. lose sight of the love between God and “Our own role and place in the natural humanity, we lose our grasp on the love world is singularly the most precious gift that can make us whole. we have been given,” he acknowledged.
SCRIPTURE STUDY By Msgr. John N. Fell The Gospel opens with the two disciples who had encountered Jesus on the road to Emmaus excitedly telling their story to the apostles. They emphasize, pointing to the reality of Christ’s ongoing presence in the Eucharist, that they “had come to know Jesus in the breaking of bread” (Lk 24:35). In the midst of their storytelling, Jesus suddenly appears. The apostles react with fear, frightened that they were seeing a ghost. Jesus calms them by speaking to them and by showing them the nail marks in his hands and feet. They had no reason to fear — it was really him. This passage emphasizes that Jesus’ glorified body was a resurrected version of the same body which had been laid in the tomb (to refute the claim of those who insisted that Jesus’ body had been stolen and that Christianity was a hoax). The fearful reaction of the apostles shows how unexpected Jesus’ return was for them; they had not understood Jesus’ pre-Resurrection teachings about his death and return to life. It also stresses the fact that acceptance of Jesus’ Resurrection demands faith. To the person without faith, even Jesus standing right of front of him will not bring about belief; only once they choose to believe in him will the apostles calm down and subscribe to his Resurrection. Next, to further emphasize the reality of his bodily Resurrection, Jesus invited the apostles to touch him; he then even ate a meal with them. This underscored the fact that they
WEEK IN SCRIPTURE
were not seeing some sort of phantom -- ghosts need not eat. Jesus then asked them to recall all that he had taught them about his death and resurrection. He “opened their minds to the understanding of the Scriptures,” (Lk 24:45) interpreting for them every Old Testament passage that referred to him. Scripture scholars suggest that these readings may include Psalm 22 (which St. John places on the lips of Jesus himself during his crucifixion), Abraham’s near-sacrifice of Isaac (Genesis 24), the Suffering Servant Songs (Isaiah 53 et al.), and the trials of the prophet Jeremiah (Jeremiah 26) to name but a few. By thus enlightening the apostles, Jesus could show them that his death and resurrection, though requiring a leap of faith, did not violate the bounds of human reason -- their faith called them to go beyond their senses, not against them. Jesus’ intention was that the deepened faith of the apostles would lead them to zealously proclaim his message with their lips and their lives. Jesus’ call that “penance for the remission of sins is to be preached to all the nations” (Lk 24:47) is a summons for all people to live out the moral dimension of his teaching as the surest way of attracting others to his flock. By focusing on reconciliation and right conduct, these early disciples would clearly demonstrate Christianity’s power to overcome the evil of the world. St. Luke himself will testify to Christianity’s world-transforming power in volume two of his gospel, the Acts of the Apostles. Whereas the other evangelists use Jesus’ death and resurrection simply as the climax of their gospels, St. Luke uses this material as both his gospel’s climax as well as the point of departure for the Acts. The Acts of the Apostles gives witness to the pristine beauty and fervor with which the earliest Church community proclaimed and lived out its faith. St. John testifies that these earliest Christians proved so excellent in their devotion to the Lord, that “truly the love of God has reached perfection in [them]” (1 Jn 2:5a). That perfecting love is their heritage which they bequeath to us. Msgr. Fell is a Scripture scholar and director, diocesan Office for Priest Personnel SATURDAY, APRIL 17 - MONDAY, MAY 16
c. 1218-1278 April 27
Crosiers
At age 12 Zita began working as a domestic in the household of a wealthy weaver in Lucca, Italy, and remained there her entire life. Initially, the devout and punctilious Zita antagonized her fellow servants, and drew the ire of her employers for lavish gifts of food to the poor. But she gradually won over everyone by her goodness, and was put in charge of the house. Later in life, she spent much time visiting the sick and imprisoned. At her death, she already was acclaimed a saint in Lucca and her cult spread to England through Lucchese merchants in London.
Saints
SCRIPTURE SEARCH® Gospel for April 18, 2021 Luke 24:35-48
Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the Third Sunday of Easter, Cycle B: the risen Jesus appears to the disciples. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle. BREAKING STARTLED YOUR HEARTS FLESH A PIECE MY WORDS PSALMS
BREAD A GHOST LACK OF BONES FISH I SPOKE SUFFER
PEACE ARISE TOUCH ME TO EAT ATE IT LAW OF MOSES WITNESSES
A PIECE OF FISH A P I
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S P O K E L R R
L Y H B E C S J O E E E A O S O S H T A A S F A W U
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O R F E E T E S P M U F H
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M E H C T K T U A N A G O A N R
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© 2021 TRI-C-A Publications; tri-c-a-publications.com
S E
APRIL 15, 2021
Acts 6:1-7 / Ps 33:1-2, 4-5, 18-19 / Jn 6:16-21 Acts 3:13-15, 17-19 / Ps 4:2, 4, 7-8, 9 / Jn 2:1-5a / Lk 24:35-48 Acts 6:8-15 / Ps 119:23-24, 26-27, 29-30 / Jn 6:22-29 Acts 7:51-8:1a / Ps 31:3cd-4, 6 and 7b and 8a, 17 and 21ab / Jn 6:30-35 Acts 8:1b-8 / Ps 66:1-3a, 4-5, 6-7a / Jn 6:35-40 (275) Acts 8:26-40 / Ps 66:8-9. 16-17, 20 / Jn 6:44-51 Acts 9:1-20 / Ps 117:1bc, 2 / Jn 6:52-59 Acts 9:31-42 / Ps 116:12-13, 14-15, 16-17 / Jn 6:60-69 Acts 4:8-12 / Ps 118:1, 8-9, 21-23 26, 28, 29 / 1 Jn 3:1-2 / Jn 10:11-18 Acts 11:1-18 / Ps 42:2-3, 43:3, 4 / Jn 10:1-10 Acts 11:19-26 / Ps 87:1b-3, 4-5, 6-7 / Jn 10:22-30 Acts 12:24-13:5a / Ps 67:2-3, 5, 6 and 8 / Jn 12:44-50 Acts13:13-25 / Ps 89:2-3, 21-22, 25 and 27 / Jn 13:16-20 Acts 13:26-33 / Ps 2:6-7, 8-9, 10-11ab / Jn 14:1-6 Acts 13:44-52 / Ps 98:1, 2-3ab, 3cd-4 / Jn 14:7-14 Acts 9:26-31 / Ps 22:26-27. 28, 30, 31-32 / 1 Jn 3:18-24 / Jn 15:1-8 1 Cor 15:1-8 / Ps 19:2-3, 4-5 / Jn 14:6-14 Acts 14:19-28 / Ps 145:10-11, 12-13ab, 21 / Jn 14:27-31a Acts 15:1-6 / Ps 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 21 / Jn 15:1-8
Zita
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
Sat 17 Sun 18 Mon 19 Tues 20 Wed 21 Thurs 22 Fri 23 Sat 24 Sun 25 Mon 26 Tues 27 Wed 28 Thurs 29 Fri 30 Sat 1 Sun 22 Mon 3 Tues 4 Wed 5
Third Sunday of Easter (B)
OUR FAITH
Tucked between St. Luke’s accounts of the Emmaus journey and the Ascension, this Sunday’s Gospel offers a key insight about faith in Jesus’ resurrection. St. Luke demonstrates that while faith always demands a leap beyond human reason, Christian faith never conflicts with human reason. This final appearance of Jesus prior to his Ascension serves to confirm the faith of the assembled apostles, while also commissioning them for the role they would play in the early Christian community.
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Acts of the Apostles
20 26 STEPPING FORWARD IN CHARITY STEPPING UP IN CHARITY
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Connections Program offers role models for youth Agency joins celebration of service to young
Children extend care to military veteran in
WE ACCEPT PAYMENT BY CASH OR PERSONAL CHECKS. Joanne Kleinle OnBy March 26, Catholic Charities, NO CREDIT CARDS.
“During this difficult time, af- ence in providing high quality affordCorrespondent Diocese of Metuchen child care pro- terschool programs have never been able child care and enrichment, Catho(908) 754-3663 , ext. "0" gramsWhen Catholic Care for children to have a lic Charities is dedicated to ensuring more crucial in Somerset, WarrenCharities’ and Morris Child “A faithful friendcomis a sturdy shelter; he who Tues., Wed. & Thurs.: 10 am – 3pm counties joined Site fiSupervisor Jenelle Clauson read place where they feel all children develop to their fullest pofinds one across nds a treasure.” (Sir 6:14) Friday: 10 am – 2 pm and supported in tential in a nurturing, safe, and family munities the a The Facebook post “During about a this 104-year-old difficult safe Connections out of school time. friendly environment. Promoting age globe to celebrate the Program at Catholic Saturday: 9:30 am – 12 noon Charities, Diocesespecial of Metuchen, which is Valentine’s Marine’s plea for of socialWe continue to build appropriate opportunities utilizing the time, afterschool Closed Sunday, Monday & Holidays importance supported by the Bishop's Annual Appeal, on our incorporation latest research, our experienced and emotional learning wishes, she gathered her colleagues takes this verse to heart by connecting men-have never Rt. 22 & Terrill Road, Watchung, NJ 07069 (SEL) onHatchery the second Hillprograms of SEL into every- dedicated staff give parents peace of at Elementary School, tors with youth who can use a friend. What thing we do in our mind while supporting school success. annual International been more participants have found is and that what starts out crucial organized a project programs.” SEL Hackettstown, Day centered on Overall, 1,438 children were enas a way to give youth a helping hand, often to have a for children for the children in the Catholic ChariTo celebrate the rolled in Catholic Charities’ child care building bonds and creates friendships that are treasured by the reimagining commuactivities specif- programs in fiscal year 2020, includties’theafter child care program youths, mentorsschool and theirplace familieswhere alike. they feelto day, nity. Since 1994, the Connections Program ically address the so- ing children enrolled in early learning respond to the safe oldest living Marine’s is only natural in cial emotional needs centers, school age child care, and has“Itpaired adult volunteers withand youthsupported in forMiddlesex usrequest. to participate in County from ages 17. It time. We of children’s develop- summer camp programs. out 5oftoschool celebrating the secLast year, Catholic Charities, Maj. Bill White, a World War II ment and build on the started from pairing 14 matches to as many ond annual internachildren’s self-awarewhich is supported by the Bishop’s Ancontinue on as 65 mentors paired with youth each year.to build veteran and Purple Heart recipient, tional SEL day,” said ness, decision maknual Appeal, served more than 56,000 Youth in thehis program are more likely to shared wish during an interview our incorporation ofwith SEL ing, and relationship people in the Diocese of Metuchen. Child Care Service 2400 B Cooper Street develop positive behaviors and continue For example, Area Director Krista For more information, please KTXL-TV in Sacramento, schooling, which changes their lives. The Calif., into everything we and do skills. Piscataway, NJ 08854 children participated Glynn. “Afterschool visit www.ccdom.org friendship between the youth and theHe menthe request went viral. told the telein a “take what you programs are a place in our programs. ” www.ourladyoftenderness.com torsvision tends to hosts form quickly, time an that but oneover of—Krista his favorite hob- need bulletin board,” foreven children particDon't miss the next issue of deepertobond is established and they Glynn a “coping ipate inbecome social emo- family to thewhich bies is scrapbooking, The Catholic Spirit. often a second child. has helped create box,” set goals, and tionalhim opportunities It will feature Bishop Checchio's According to the program’s website, to keep track of his extensive life. Your prayer requests are welcomed and through hands on activities, healthy incorporate respect, kindness and emAnniversary and Priest Milestones. criteria awanted mentor are: Nowto get he to experiencing add some Valentine with peers, and gain the encouraged. They shall be placed before the connections significant and/or terminal medical diffi cul- pathy in their daily activities. For extra copies call: (732) 529-7934 cards toskills collection of mementos. Jeanette Cullen,than a member of St. Bartholomew Parish, East Brunswick, has served With more 30 years’ experinecessary life for the for which ahis positive adultfuture. relationship Blessed Sacrament and lifted daily in prayer. ties supervisor of the Connections Program at Catholic Charities, Diocese of from outside of the word family would helpful; Once got beout aboutas White’s Metuchen, since 2000. The 26-year-old program pairs adult volunteers with youth finding themselves seriouschildren situational/ from request, staffin and BeneThe ministry of this Hermitage is God’s gift, loss crisis (i.e., but not limited to divorce or in Middlesex County from ages 5 to 18. — Joanne Kleinle photo dict isA. Cucinella School, a parent dying/just deceased)Elementary and a helpChildren in the Catholic Charities' after school child c a life of prayer, freely given to our diocese fulLong adult relationship Valley,is needed. and Willow Grove ElHatchery Hill Elementary School, Hackettstown, basketball or share a meal. advice or support. The program also hosts send t Westaccept MainthisSt.free Suite Kathy McCrystal said she startedwith as for you.95 Please gift.5-106 It is a ementary School joined Hatchery McCrystal spends about four hours quarterly mentor nights. NewWar Jersey Catholic Daughters a mentor when her twin boys were teenMajor Bill White, a The World II support veteran and Purple Hear NJ 07930 Hill and together they sent three large a week with the boys depending on what Jeanette Cullen, a member of St. — Bar-photo co privilegeChester, to be united with you in prayer. of America, which includes several agers. She was paired with a boy close in activities they plan. She looks forward to tholomew Parish, East Brunswick, where age to her sons because she thought menenvelopes full of hand-made Valentine courts in the Diocese of Metuchen, www.ourladyoftenderness.com her time with them and loves watching recently she serves awarded as an extraordinary minister of toring would be awishes great wayto to engage her the Marianist cards and honor White and to Be still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 own boys. She got much more than she them grow and mature into teenagers. They holy Communion and in its Society of St. Family Retreat House in Capechild May care fo support to Maj. White and we are all rebring love and joy to the retired Marine. often talk to her about their Vincent de Paul chapter, has been superviexpected. The boy became Point a gift of $5,000, said Mercy Prayer Request: and sheofgives sor of theitConnections Program since 2000. distric school minded howthem important is toSmith, provide close to her family, “We arewhole so thrilled about the cases, response issues Your prayer requests are welcomed and “In many Sister Marjorie spiritual adviwhatever guidance she can. She sees the impact it has not only on the participating in traditions Somerset and recognition to those who have served _______________________________ we received from the we school to the organization. Mentors must un- sor the youth, butwomen’s on the mentors and families. encouraged. They shall be placed before the put district,” the like her in-laws annual New For more our country.” for a photo: Anthony Fucci,the saidEveChild Care Service Area Director dergo rigorous screening Posing “The program is not meant to replace Year’s party, decorating _________________________ childhood back director, left, and Marianist Father Blessed Sacrament and lifted daily in prayer. interview and background parents, but to give support,” she said. “In Charities’ child Last year, Catholic Charities, DiotheKrista ChristmasGlynn. tree and go“The staff and children David McGuigan. The donation is to checks before they receive many cases, we put the childhood back in ingwere on an annual Easter egg in the child’s cese of Metuchen provided affordable ccdom.org/chil so excited to send their lovelifeand training the expenses for the two and continue to cover the child’s life by offering the next fun activities hunt. She even took him on The ministry of this Hermitage is God’s gift, by offering the receive training after they annual and support that for his families or her family retreats livingcannot in college tours with her own give them.” New Jersey who are transitioning sons. They grew so close a lifeTHE of prayer, freely given to our diocese fun activities and begingTheserving. program sponsors from Cullen witnessing the lifethat when he aged out of shelterstreasures to affordable housing. changing impact that the mentors have on for you. Please accept this free gift. It is a the program, she agreed to support that their monthly group activities — Fucci, with the blessings of the Mariusually in person, but they anist the youth. She said one child, whose parents mentor his younger brothers priests/brothers, is supporting families cannot privilege to be united with you in prayer. have been held virtually bewere day laborers, came into the program and they now participate in the Elizabeth Coalition to House the cause of the coronavirus — wanting to be a day laborer. After spending McCrystal family traditions give them.” Homeless with this ongoing project. for mentors and the youth. time with his mentor, he realized other posjust like their brother did. —Jeanette Cullen Catholic Daughters of America Be still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 Through these trainings and The sibilities that were open to him. He started Most of the activities strive to embrace the principle activities, McCrystal has to plan to go to college and become a of busithat she does with the boys faith working through love in the also formed close friendships with other nessman and travel. He also changed his are simple. Because of the recent lockdown Prayer Request: promotion of justice, equality, and mentors. diet to more healthy choices. related to the coronavirus, she takes them for human rights a _______________________________ Case managers are in touch with men- the advancement For informationof about becoming a walk or buys them ice cream. They also mentor, contact Jeanette at jcullen@ human dignity forCullen all, according share her love of biking and hiking. Some- tors two to five times each month and are and ccdom.org or (732) 738-1323. its mission statement. _________________________ times they want to visit at her house and play available day or night by phone if they need to
Our Lady of Tenderness
APRIL 15, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT AUGUST 20, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
Our Lady of Tenderness
Mission of Mercy
“Come follow me” 10:21) atholic Spirit C(Mark
Is God calling you to serve as a priest, deacon, religious sister or brother?
If you think maybe...
— Mercy Sister Marjorie Smith photo
Journey of Faith By Father John Gerard Hillier
against the virtue of religion” (ccc 2125). The Catechism even blames believers for the rise of atheism because many have been “careless about their instruction in the faith, or present[ed] its teaching falsely, or even fail[ed] in their religious, moral, or social life” (ccc 2125). Believers are therefore said “to conceal rather than to reveal the true nature of God and of religion” (ccc 2125) to potential converts who unfortunately remain atheists. The “agnostic makes no judgment about God’s existence, declaring it impossible to prove, or even to affirm or deny” (ccc 2127). In conventional or everyday terms, while atheists do not believe in the existence of God, agnostics believe in a supreme being, but this supreme being is a remote one with no dealing in human affairs and certainly incapable of a having a personal relationship with us. The final paragraphs in this section discuss the veneration of “graven images.” The Catechism is quick to distinguish between worshipping idols and the Christian veneration of images, whereby “the honor rendered to an image passes to its prototype” (ccc 2132). In other words, in a Christian context, “whoever venerates an image venerates the person portrayed in it” (ccc 2132), and not the image itself. We do not venerate a stone statue of Jesus or Mary. Rather, the image reminds us of God’s love for us and how we are meant to share that love in our personal interaction with others… something that we need to always remember. Father Hillier is Director, diocesan Office of Pontifical Mission Societies, the Office for Persons with Disabilities, and Censor Luborum
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT APRIL 15, 2021
In this article we continue to reflect on the First Commandment: “You shall have no other gods before me” (Ex 20:3). Did you know that certain activities considered hobbies or passtimes by some are actually sins that break this First Commandment? It is common practice, for example, for many people to check their “horoscopes” each day, often on the Internet but still available in most newspapers, too. When a person becomes fixated on such things, this “thing”, according to the Catechism, can easily become a “false god.” Palm reading, astrology, and tasseography (reading tea leaves, coffee grounds, or wine stains left in an empty glass) are likewise accepted as a source of entertainment. When people become fixated on such activities, however, they may also be committing the sin of superstition, also against the First Commandment. The Catechism highlights superstition as “the deviation of religious feeling and of the practices this feeling imposes” (ccc 2111). It “represents a perverse excess of religion” (ccc 2110). As an example, “when one attributes an importance in some way magical to certain practices otherwise lawful or necessary” (ccc 2111), this can become a doorway into superstition. Silly superstitions may include avoiding walking under an open ladder or passing a black cat on a patch of grass; but, more serious activities, like those described above, are ways people could be breaking the First Commandment. Idolatry is likewise highlighted as an ongoing obstacle to true faith which breaks the First Commandment. It “consists in divinizing what is not God” (ccc 2113). We commit this terrible sin when we “honor and revere a creature in place of God, whether this be [other] gods or demons [for example, satanism], power, pleasure, race, ancestors, the state, money, etc…. Many martyrs died for not adoring ‘the Beast,’ refusing even to simulate such worship” (ccc 2113). The Catechism teaches: “All forms of divination are to be rejected” (ccc 2116). The list includes: • recourse to Satan or demons, • conjuring up the dead, or other
practices falsely supposed to “unveil” tusks and tiger bone) and invocation the future, of evil powers. • horoscopes, Other serious sins against the • astrology, First Commandment are also dis• palm reading, cussed, including “tempting God in • interpretation of omens and lots, words or deeds, sacrilege, and si• the phenomena of clairvoyance, mony” (ccc 2118). “Tempting God and consists in putting his goodness and • recourse to mediums almighty power to the test by word or All of these things, says the Cat- deed” (ccc 2119). “Sacrilege consists echism, “conceal a desire for power in profaning or treating unworthily over time, history and, in the last the sacraments and other liturgical analysis, other human beings, as well actions, as well as persons, things, or as a wish to conciliate hidden powers” places consecrated to God. Sacrilege (ccc 2116). To engage in these activi- is a grave sin especially when committies “contradict[s] the honor, respect ted against the Eucharist, for in this and loving fear that we owe to God sacrament the true Body of Christ is alone” (ccc 2116). made substantially present for us” (ccc The next para2120). For those who graph also highlights do not know, simony Atheism “falsely activities related to is the act of “buying considers man to magic and sorcery that or selling” Church ofwe are told to avoid so fices and functions or be ‘an end to that we do not break “the buying or selling the First Commandof spiritual things” himself, and the ment. This is especial(ccc 2121). It is named sole maker, with ly true when “one atafter Simon Magus, tempts to tame occult who is described in the supreme control, powers, so as to place Acts of the Apostles of his own history’” as having offered two them at one’s service and have a supernatudisciples of Jesus pay(ccc 2124). ral power over others ment in exchange for even if this were for their empowering him the sake of restorto impart the power ing their health” (ccc of the Holy Spirit to 2117). When accompanied by “the anyone on whom he would place his intention of harming someone or when hands. they have recourse to the intervention Atheism and agnosticism are also of demons” these are “even more to covered in this section as sins against be condemned” (ccc 2117). Other rep- the First Commandment. Atheism rehensible activities include wearing “falsely considers man to be ‘an end evil “charms,” traditional cures (using to himself, and the sole maker, with lizard skins and especially using parts supreme control, of his own history’” taken from endangered animals such (ccc 2124). Since it “rejects or denies as rhino horns, bear organs, elephant the existence of God, atheism is a sin
FAITH ALIVE
Article 149 — Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 2110-2132
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Seemingly innocent activities could create ‘false gods’
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Geneticist takes step to sainthood VATICAN CITY (CNA) — Pope Francis recognized on Thursday the heroic virtues of Jérôme Lejeune, the French geneticist who discovered the extra chromosome that causes Down syndrome. The step, announced Jan. 21, means that Lejeune can now be referred to as “Venerable.” Heroic virtue is one of the requirements for beatification in the Catholic Church. A verified miracle attributed to the candidate’s intercession is also usually required. Lejeune was born on June 13, 1926, in Montrouge, in the southern Parisian suburbs. In 1958, he deduced that Down syndrome was caused by an extra copy of chromosome 21.He dedicated the rest of his life to researching treatments to improve the lives of people with Down syndrome. He firmly opposed the use of prenatal testing to identify unborn children with Down syndrome and other chromosomal abnormalities for abortion. When he received the prestigious William Allan Award for his work in genetics in 1969, he gave an impassioned speech opposing abortion. “For millennia, medicine has striven to fight for life and health and against disease and death. Any reversal of the order of these terms of reference would entirely change medicine itself,” he said. “It happens that nature does condemn. Our duty has always been not to inflict the sentence but to try to commute the pain. In any foreseeable genetical trial I do not know enough to judge, but I feel enough to advocate.” After the speech, which received a cool reception, he reportedly told his wife: “Today, I lost my Nobel Prize in
medicine.” In 1994, Pope John Paul II named Lejeune as the first president of the Pontifical Academy for Life. The physician died just 33 days later in Paris, on April 2, 1994, at the age of 67. The Fondation Jérôme Lejeune in Paris welcomed the progress in Lejeune’s cause, describing it as “an immense joy.” But it said that the news came at an “alarming” time for respect for life in France, with the advance of a new bioethics bill that would further dehumanize “the embryo, the youngest member of the human species.” “Jérôme Lejeune had led this fight for the respect of the embryo throughout his life, as a historical opponent of the Veil Law which legalized abortion in France in 1975, and as a researcher and physician, he had seen from the first bioethics law in 1994, just before his death, where in vitro fertilization and research on the embryo would lead us,” the foundation said. The pope also advanced seven other causes on Thursday. He recognized the Italian priest Giovanni Fornasini (1915-1944) as a martyr killed in hatred of the faith. Fornasini served in the resistance during the Second World War and was shot dead by a Nazi soldier. The pope recognized the heroic virtues of six other candidates. They included Elizabeth Prout (18201864), founder of the Passionist Sisters, who served impoverished workers in England’s deprived industrial towns. Prout, also known by her religious name Mother Mary Joseph of Jesus, is buried alongside Ignatius Spencer and Dominic Barberi, two other candidates for canonization who played major roles in the revival of English Catholicism in the 19th-century.
AROUND THE DIOCESE
APRIL 15, 2021
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
Spirituality
Apr. 21, 7-9 p.m. — Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer, Watchung. Starting with a deeper understanding of our own relationship with God’s Creation, environmental scientists Gerard McKenna and Dr. Harry Allen will discuss the problem, consequences, possible political and technical responses to climate change. The fee is $20-$30 (as you are able). To register, call (908) 7532091 or online www.msmhope.org May 5, 7-9 p.m. — Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer, Watchung, will host a virtual meeting with Jesuit Father James J. Martin, who will give a presentation on the topic “Learning to Pray.” The cost is $25 per person. Registration is required: www. msmhope.org May 1, 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. — First Saturday and Feast Day of St. Joseph the Worker at The Blue Army Shrine, Asbury. A Fatima/St. Joseph virtual conference, Reclaiming the Family Through Fathers. The
conference talks and First Saturday Devotions will be shown online at www.reclaimingthefamily.com. Speakers are: Holy Cross Father David Guffey, national director, Family Theater Productions and producer of the movie “PRAY: The Life of Patrick Peyton;” Devin Schadt, co-founder of the Fathers of St. Joseph, author and speaker; and Marians of the Immaculate Conception Father Donald Calloway, best-selling author and acclaimed speaker. Following the talks, Father Ronan Murphy, National Blue Army Shrine chaplain, will lead a consecration to St. Joseph, followed by First Saturday Devotions and Holy Mass in reparation to the Immaculate Heart, ending with the Chaplet of Divine Mercy and enrollment in the Brown Scapular. Registered conference attendees will receive free streaming of the movie “PRAY: The Life of Patrick Peyton” and other conference perks. For more details and to register, visit www.reclaimingthefamily.com. For more information, contact the shrine at (908) 689-1700, extension 210, or bernster@bluearmy.com
Recently, there was a meme on social media showing the devil taunting God. The devil says, “I have closed down every church in the world.” God replies, “Yes, but I have opened one up in every home.” While we cannot be physically present in our church buildings, our homes have recently become the places where we worship God and live our Christian lives. Certainly, this should be taking place in our homes already. Although, the COVID-19 situation causes us to be more intentional in this regard and present circumstances place a greater emphasis on the domestic church. Well, what does the devil have to say now that our church buildings and our homes are open for worship? There is no question that the faith and spirit in the Diocese of Metuchen are alive and vibrant. Among the many reasons and examples of this are the following three. Mass attendance is steadily in-
creasing. While maintaining the health and safety of everyone is primary, by practicing social distancing and the respective guidelines, Mass attendance has been steadily increasing from the time public worship was allowed last June, to Christmas, to Ash Wednesday and most recently Easter. As previously written and stated by Bishop James F. Checchio in this year’s appeal video, “The real presence of Jesus Christ in the Blessed Sacrament is what people need, that is how we are transformed and sent to serve those in need.” In my most recent experiences, to sit in the homes of some of our parishioners, wearing masks and social distancing of course, are personal (in person) encounters that have not happened in more than a year. While I was there to assist with facilitating gifts to this year’s appeal, which only took a few minutes, it was the time it took to eat breakfast and have a cup of coffee that was most meaningful. Learning about one’s family and background is always a blessing. When someone shares with me or
anyone their personal faith journey and formation that should give us all hope and inspiration that together we can achieve our mission and together we are indeed strengthening our Church. These personal experiences are motivating reminders that we are all being called in different ways and at different times to make Christ known in our diocese and in our parishes, to bring Christ to those who need Him the most and to do this by making ministry possible. Then there is the fact that this year’s Bishop’s Annual Appeal is off to a stronger and higher start than we have had in many years. This year’s appeal is at 52 percent of its $7.2 million goal. Thank you to all who have sacrificed their time and financial resources so that we can be intentional and effective in bringing people to Jesus Christ. The last 14 months, as well as our present Easter season, have been times for us to reflect on our own blessings and to share those blessings so that we can support initiatives, services and the spiritual needs to all, most especially
to those impacted by the current crisis. With so many people in need right now, please consider a sacrificial gift to this year’s appeal. Consider a gift of sacrifice through prayer and reflection, to the best of your means. With so many people negatively impacted by COVID-19, it is important to give people the opportunity to be a part of this mission, our faith and the work of God. Please consider supporting this year’s appeal by responding to the most recent mailing or by making an online pledge at https://diometuchen. org/BAA. All funds raised through the Bishop’s Annual Appeal are used to support the ministries and programs of the Diocese of Metuchen. Please know we are praying for the safety of you and your loved ones, as well as for all impacted by the pandemic crisis. Prayer intentions can be sent to: https://diometuchen.org/prayer-intention. Tom Smith is director, diocesan Office of Stewardship and Development
APRIL 15, 2021
— The Catholic Spirit file photos
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
Above clockwise: Bishop James F. Checchio celebrates Mass at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Mausoleum, Bridgewater. The Mass was one of the first livestreamed during the coronavirus pandemic. Bishop Checchio, Msgr. Randall J. Vashon and Father Mauricio Tabera-Vasquez, vocation recruiter, pose with seminarians and young men interested in the priesthood at a barbeque in August 2020. Catholic Charities volunteers prepare bags of food for the residents of Unity Square, New Brunswick. Father David E. Keyes, parochial vicar, St. Ambrose Parish, Old Bridge, distributes holy Communion to an individual at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. It was the first time since the pandemic began in March 2020 that holy Communion was distributed. A Priest at Holy Family Parish, New Brunswick, blesses parishioners with the Blessed Sacrament. The parish livestreamed the Holy Hour during which prayers were offered for racial harmony. Bishop Checchio raises the Body of Christ during the Respect Life Mass and Pro Vita Award ceremony at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Jan. 22.
OUR DIOCESE
By Tom Smith
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Faithful help Bishop’s Annual Appeal have strongest start in years
24 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT APRIL 15, 2021
Judge Salas reflects on faith, forgiveness, love and her son’s death Continued from page 16
my face I felt the power of forgiveness. “From the moment I chose to forgive the shooter, Daniel’s killer, I felt lighter. I felt God’s love shining through.” If we let hatred and negative energy stay within us, “it will eat you alive,” said Judge Salas. Forgiveness empowers us, she continued, and through it we begin to truly understand the depths of the love that God has for all of us. By releasing negative thoughts, we open our hearts and our minds to love. “By choosing to forgive Daniel’s killer, I made a conscious decision to let go of the anger and choose to stay in the light,” the judge said. She revealed that she has not spent a second thinking of the shooter, but spends her time thinking of Daniel and how he loved life and all the people in it. Judge Salas said love has been the salvation of her and Mark through their nightmare. Then, through tears, she spoke of Good Friday. “Jesus loved us so much that He was willing to die an unspeakable death for us. That’s unconditional love.”
She spoke, too, of Mary and how she must have felt accompanying her only Son to His certain death at Calvary. The judge then described seeing her son, dying as he clutched his chest. “I believe I have a better understanding of what Mary must have felt like, however, I don’t pretend to truly understand the sacrifices Jesus and Mary made for our salvation. What I do know they chose love over hate.” Judge Salas concluded her faith testimony by thanking God, Jesus and Mary for their faith in us, for their forgiveness of our sins, and for the unconditional love they show us each and every day. Bishop Manuel A. Cruz, Auxiliary Bishop of Newark, presided at St. Augustine’s Good Friday service. Bishop Cruz is the regional bishop of Essex County where the courthouse in which U.S. District Judge Esther Salas serves is located. During the Good Friday service, the bishop also blessed a relic of the True Cross. Judge Salas’ talk can be heard on St. Augustine’s website: www.staugustinenj.org
Above, Bishop Manuel Cruz, Auxiliary Bishop of Newark, begins the second part of the Good Friday liturgy, namely, the Veneration of the Cross. At left is a portrait of Daniel Anderl, which was displayed at his funeral. — Barbara Cori, photos
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ACROSS 2 Saintly Bishop Romero 5 There are 27 in the New Testament 8 Second son of Judah 9 Noah built one 11 Amo, ___, amat 13 Catholic newsman Russert, former host of “Meet the Press” 14 OT prophetic book 15 Letters above the cross 16 Israel ending 17 Element of Reconciliation 20 Meal for Ezekiel? 22 St. Therese of Lisieux is a patron of this country 27 Opening pair? 28 “Can any of you by worrying ___ a single moment to your life?” (Mt 6:27) 29 Chalice covering 30 Moses’ was radiant after he spoke with the Lord 32 ___ Wednesday 33 Land of Sts. Brendan and Brigid 35 Evil deed 36 The Wise Men came from here 37 Supreme ___ 38 Morning prayer
DOWN 1 Certain mysteries 3 Pilgrimage site, ___ de Compostela 4 He was an original 5 The ___ Army of Mary 6 ___ pro nobis 7 Palm product 10 Catholic Oscar-winning actress of “The Country Girl” fame 12 Iowa city named for monks, Des ___ 18 In Genesis, Melchizedek’s domain 19 9 AM prayer 21 Lector 23 The Good ___ 24 Sebastian is their patron saint 25 Prayer spot? 26 Catholic actress and First Lady of the American Theatre 31 Jesuits’ motto (abbr.) 32 Prophet in Luke 2 34 He gave Hannah words of comfort
OUR DIOCESE
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Crossword Puzzle
Answers can be found on page 27
www.wordgamesforcatholics.com
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT APRIL 15, 2021
26 34 OUR DIOCESE DIOCESE OUR
Students OBITUARY‘shower’ crisis pregnancy center with hundreds of donations Joseph Nursing Center, Woodbridge. She had been a member of the Sister Aurelia Jackiewicz, 85, a establishment community at the the PA&IC Provincialate, Cher30 years ago By SuetM. Getz devoted religious of the Little Servant with ry Hill, since 2013. Rita Martin as well as with Great Correspondent Sisters of the Immaculate Conception Expectations Baptized Halina, entered the on WestsheEnd Avenue, for 66 years who served as a teacher congregation in 1955, and professed The sophomore theology class at Im- Somerville. and principal at Our Lady Somerville, of Lourdes her perpetual vows in 1962. Volunteers at the CenterShe saidwas thata maculata High School, School, Milltown, died Feb. 8 at St. dedicated trained religious educator in all of the donations from Immaculata under the supervision of theology teacher Elena Dwyer, who also serves were a windfall they really apprecias moderator of the Pro-Life Club, re- ated. Lauren Antonacci, a junior at cently gave support to the Pregnancy Aid & Information Center (PA&IC), Immaculata who is a member of Campus Ministry and the Pro-Life Club, Raritan Borough, The class donated hundreds of said, “Visiting the Pregnancy Aid & layette items and baby clothes at a Information Center was not just eye“Baby Shower” for new mothers who opening, but heartwarming. It made areEstate using the PA&IC. Dwyer initiated my day to see all of the wonderful doPlanning the Baby Shower in response to the nations the place constantly received, □ LastofWill Testament andIncome it made Only my dayTrust even more to hear suggestion the and diocesan Human □ about how these pregnant women in Power of Attorney Asset Protection Life □and Dignity Office. Immacu- □ lata was asked toWill “partner” this school need were getting help. □ Living “As Catholics, it’s our duty to year with PA&IC at the invitation of Jennifer Ruggiero, who heads the help the poor and in need, and I feel Elder Law diocesan Secretariat for Family and like the Pregnancy Aid & Informa□ Medicaid □ Estate CenterPlanning does this. It felt wonderful Pastoral Life, as part of its “Adopt a tion □ Guardianships □ Asset Sheltering that all of these high qualPregnancy Center” initiative in order knowing to help fulfill the United States Con- ity baby items are going to women in □ Social Security ference of Catholic Bishops’ yearlong need.” Sophomore Theresa Mustow, who effort “Walking with Moms in Need,” Estate Administration is a member of Campus Ministry and which concluded March 25. □ Probate □ Will Contests sophomore theology class added, The sophomore theology class the Asset □ Accounting incredible to see women coming ended□its time Distribution helping the Center in “It’s a socially-distanced, masked, but fun together to support struggling moth□ Taxes ers. Some believe that pro-life stops at “Celebration of Life!” Helping families in the birth, when it really doesn’t. To truly The school’s Campus Ministry be pro-life, be willing to program ended the week of March 25 Metuchen area for more than you 15 must years! with a an outreach to the PA&IC in support the mothers after birth as well. “The women who founded and which four Campus Ministry students Freetoparking CHASE Handicap Accessible the Pregnancy Aid & Inforhelped deliver andinsort all of thelotwork for baby items donated by the class, and mation Center have taken this philosothe hundreds of baby wipes collected phy to heart, and it has made a great impact in the community.” by Campus Ministry. Dwyer noted that the “entire Fran Johnson, director, Pregnancy 732-548-5400 • www.WolfeOssaLaw.com Aid & Information Center, said it is a endeavor could not be done without the beautiful of the nonprofit, all-volunteer, group 475 Main St. 2ndpro-life Floor, CHASE Bldg.cooperation Metuchen, NJImthat helps all women in crisis pregnan- maculata parents and guardians, and cies. She was involved in the initial the eagerness and enthusiasm of our
APRIL 15, 2021 CATHOLIC SPIRIT FEBRUARY 25, 2021THE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
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Poland. Beginning in 1972, she served as a teacher and principal at three elementary schools in New Jersey. She also served as superior at St. John Retreat House, Atlantic City. Sister Aurelia was committed to prayer and to her community. Open to people, her ministry in Poland was in the time of communism. In her new world of New Jersey, she endeared herself to her students and had the gift of hospitality. She loved helping the poor and gardening. A funeral Mass was celebrated for Sister Aurelia Feb. 13 at the Provincialate Chapel. Interment was at St. Joseph’s Cemetery, Chews Landing. Arrangements were handled by
Ciechanowski Funeral Home, Runnemede. Memorial contributions in Sister Aurelia’s memory may be sent to the Little Servant Sisters, Provincialate, 1000 Cropwell Road, Cherry Hill, NJ 08003
Students in the sophomore theology class at Immaculata High School, Somerville, show some of the items donated to the Pregnancy Aid & Information Center, Raritan Borough. Front row, from left: Grace Bush, Joy Drecolis and Gavin Fitzgerald. Back row, from left: Timothy Reeves and Shannon Fitzgerald. — photo courtesy of Immaculata High School
wonderful students. The generosity of social justice happens because then it the Immaculata parents, students and begins to affect people’s habits for the betterment of all.” community cannot be outdone!” Maureen Cote, who is “Director Rich Grieshaber, outreach coordinator, Campus Ministry, initiated of Campus Ministry” noted, “This the outreach to PA&IC. He explained coordination of our Pro-Life Club, that in speaking with Johnson, he was Campus Ministry, and the student struck by what she said: “you can’t be body through their Theology classes, pro-life and forget the mother after especially Mrs. Dwyer’s class “Baby Shower,” was a wonderful opportuchildbirth.” Bishop F. Checchio visited the Recollect nityAugustinian for our students to Nuns learn ata their lasting “It isJames a phrase that I recently have heard monastery in Belvidere. Posing withdiothe bishop Mother (left), superior; lessonareabout theBeatriz dignity and needs of from other organizations in our Mother Rosita,expecting general superior ofwho the Federation of Mexico livesfamilies. in MexicoWe all newborns andwho young cese that serve mothers and Mother Guadalupe, secretary former general superior.to a continued looking forward areCity; marginalized,” Grieshaber added.andare — photo courtesy ofwith Bishop F. Checchio relationship theJames Pregnancy Aid & “When enough people speak of a truth not commonly understood – that’s how Information Center in Raritan!”
Pastoral Visit
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APRIL
4/17, 4/24 Life-Giving Wounds Retreat for adult children of divorce or separation, 9 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. The retreat will be virtual with an in-person Mass on May 1. It will provide a better understanding of the wounds caused by a family’s breakdown, and how to heal from them. for more information, contact cdaverso@diometuchen.org. Register at: diometuchen.org/adult-children-of-divorce. 4/27, 4/28 The Vocation of the Catechist 101 Part I & II, 7 p.m. to 8:30 p.m. both nights. Open to all with the vocation of Catechist. This course will be presented LIVE VIA ZOOM. Participants will explore their call to serve in catechetical ministry, have the opportunity to learn more about what catechesis is, and consider the vocation of catechist. They will learn to see themselves as a “teacher” of the faith and as a missionary disciple who witnesses their faith and relationship with Jesus in word and deed. We will share how we can create an environment with young people and families that can encounter the Lord, lead others effectively to prayer and creatively engage our young people in ways that are also adaptable in virtual learning environments. Time will be allotted for personal prayer and reflection. Presenters: Carol Mascola Director, Office of Discipleship the Formation, Diocese of Metuchen and Candi Gonzalez, Parish Catechetical Leader, Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords. You can register for the course on the diocese’s Office of Discipleship Formation for Children website or for more information contact: cmascola@diometuchen. org 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. DIOCESAN PROGRAMS 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.” WEEKLY PODCAST – Am I Not Here? Produced by the staff of the Office of Communications, “Am I Not Here?” – a weekly podcast – highlights the good news within our local Church and those working to minister to the people of the Diocese of Metuchen. New episodes are released each Monday and once aired they are archived. To listen to any episode, or to learn more, please click the links on the diocesan Facebook page or lighting hearts on fire website
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APRIL 15, 2021
BLUE ROSARY GUILD The Office of Family Life is pleased to announce the creation of the Blue Rosary Guild. The purpose of the Guild is for community members of all ages to make pocket Rosaries for law enforcement officers, providing them with support and spiritual strength and promoting devotion to the Rosary among all the faithful. All materials and instructions will be provided and a Zoom virtual tutorial will also be scheduled. Anyone interested should contact Cristina D’Averso-Collins, Director of the Office of Family Life at cdaverso@diometuchen.org.
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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
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
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4/ 17 LIVE Virtual Confirmation Retreat - The Holy Spirit Doesn’t Social Distance 10 a.m. to 12p.m. The retreat is being held in collaboration between Youth and Young Adult Evangelization and the Office of Discipleship Formation for Children. It is open to all Confirmation Candidates needing a make-up Confirmation retreat or who need a virtual retreat. No registration. Facilitator: Megan Vantslot, Director Office of Youth and Young Adult Evangelization
OUR DIOCESE
DIOCESAN EVENTS
28 OUR DIOCESE
Fostering Faith Msgr. Sylvester J. Cronin, back row, right, pastor, St. James Parish, Basking Ridge, poses with eighth-graders from St. James School after a prayer service for St. Joseph March 19. A table in front contains items in the ancient (Italian) tradition of St. Joseph’s table — edible food for those participating in the prayer service. Another table held donations for the food pantry. In addition, several students took the song “Go Make A Difference” and changed the lyrics to honor St. Joseph, the foster father of Jesus and husband of Mary. The song can be seen online via this link: drive.google.com/file/d/1kpUgjswLeTg6562W1l2lRb3BsOC 1O8V7/view — John Falcone photos
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...recharge your soul
BLUE ARMY OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA SHRINE 674 Mountain View Rd. E., Asbury, NJ 08802 908-689-7330 • retreat@bluearmy.com
SAN ALFONSO RETREAT HOUSE 755 Ocean Ave., Long Branch NJ 07740
Lift Up Your Soul at the tranquil 150-acre Fatima Shrine. Host Your Retreat for Youth, Couples, Parish or Vocational Group.
732-222-2731 • info@sanalfonsoretreats.org www.sanalfonsoretreats.org
LOYOLA JESUIT CENTER 161 James St. • Morristown, NJ 07960 973-539-0740 • Fax: 973-898-9839
APRIL 15, 2021
THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT
Retreats for lay men, women, priests, religious; days/evenings of prayer. Groups planning their own programs are welcome.
www.loyola.org • retreathouse@loyola.org MALVERN RETREAT HOUSE 315 S. Warren Ave., Malvern, PA 19355 610-644-0400 • Fax: 610-644-4363 An oasis of peace set on 125-acres of wooded countryside. Retreats for men, women, families, youth, religious and clergy.
malvernretreat.com · mail@malvernretreat.com MOUNT ST. MARY HOUSE OF PRAYER 1651 U.S. Highway 22, Watchung, NJ 07069 Retreats, Spiritual Direction, Programs
908-753-2091 • www.msmhope.org e-mail: msmhope@msmhope.org
A Redemptorist Spiritual Center overlooking the Atlantic Ocean offering preached retreats, days of prayer and use of the facility for outside groups.
ST. FRANCIS CENTER FOR RENEWAL, INC. 395 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem PA 18017
THE SHRINE OF ST. JOSEPH 1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling, NJ 07980 Day & Overnight Retreats Gift & Book Shop - open daily
908-647-0208 · www.stshrine.org
THE UPPER ROOM SPIRITUAL CENTER 3455 W. Bangs Ave., Building 2, Neptune, NJ 07753 Phone: 732-922-0550 • Fax: 732-922-3904 www.theupper-room.org · office@theupper-room.org VILLA PAULINE RETREAT AND SPIRITUAL CENTER 352 Bernardsville Road, Mendham, NJ 07945 Preached/Directed/Guided & Private Retreats, Spiritual Direction, day & weekend programs, Spiritual Direction Formation Program
973-543-9058 e-mail: quellen@scceast.org • wwwscceast.org
This month’s featured retreat house:
55 acres of natural beauty await you! Programs for personal and spiritual enrichment, directed and solitude retreats. Air conditioned facilities for retreats, spiritual programs, meetings and staff days for church related and not-for-profit groups.
610.867.8890 • stfranciscenter@gmail.com www.stfrancisctr.org
ST. FRANCIS RETREAT HOUSE 3918 Chipman Road, Easton, PA 18045 Franciscan retreat and confrence center RETREATS FOR MEN, WOMEN, YOUTH, RELIGIOUS, PREACHED, PRIVATE, DIRECTED
Phone: 610-258-3053, ext. 10 • Fax: 610-258-2412 E-mail: stfranrh@rcn.com • stfrancisretreathouse.org ST. JOSEPH BY THE SEA 400 Route 35 North, S. Mantoloking, NJ 08738 A Retreat House Sponsored by the Religious Teachers Filippini overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. Offering days of prayer, retreat weekends, spiritual programs, meetings and staff days. 732-892-8494 • e-mail: sjbsea@comcast.net
www.sjbsea.org
To join this retreat guide, call Nan at 732-765-6444