January 21, 2021

Catholic Schools Week section includes stories, listing of activities, 13-26

Spirit atholic C THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

JANUARY 21, 2021 • VOL. 25 NO. 14 • $2.00

CRITICAL CARE

On Dec. 22, Megan Chan, BSN, RN-BC, DSRIP/Community Health Services/1G Metabolic Unit, was the first employee of Saint Peter’s University Hospital, New Brunswick, to receive the Moderna vaccine for COVID-19.

Employee Health Services Manager Linda Vance, RN, BSN, COHN-S/CM, administered the vaccine watched by Leslie D. Hirsch, left, president and chief executive officer, Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, and Linda Carroll, MSN, RN, RN-BC, vice president of Patient Care Services and chief nursing officer. Initial vaccinations were given to hospital employees and physicians with the highest levels of patient interaction and those specifically caring for COVID-19 patients. During a phased process, eventually all employees and physicians who are interested in receiving the vaccine will have an opportunity to be vaccinated.

— Michael Castronova photo

INSIDE 4

Perspectives Our Faith

Special Recognition

28-29

Diocesan Events

35

Classifieds

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Bishop leads liturgy on anniversary of consecration of diocese to Jesus through Our Lady of Guadalupe. . .3 This issue was mailed on January 19 Your next issue will be February 25

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Support pro-life cause by participating in local events

UP FRONT

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Bishop James Checchio

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Every New Year brings us an opportunity to focus anew on our priorities and try to make things better for all of us! As we begin 2021, we cannot help but reflect on how difficult 2020 was for so many in our world, nation and our Church. The pandemic has greatly impacted everyone and has resulted in people losing their jobs, losing loved ones and some losing their way. We all have faced challenges. Gratefully, this January brings a chance to start anew with resolutions and hope for a better future. This new year, I am particularly struck by events that reveal how fragile life is as well as what an extraordinary gift it is.

Each year on the days surrounding January 22, many of us travel to Washington, D.C., and to the statehouse in Trenton to celebrate the gift of life and to commemorate the anniversary of the tragic Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade, which legalized abortion in our land. I always am proud to be able to join in these times to be a witness for life. I am also inspired by the participation of so many faithful people from our beautiful diocese, particularly our youth. Indeed, these events are a wonderful opportunity for us to join with thousands of people from across the country to give witness to the sanctity of life in the womb.

Sadly, this year, due to COVID-19, group travel across state lines has been made very difficult because of increased restrictions; social distancing, quarantine requirements as well as bus capacity limits.

While this year our diocese will not have buses going to the March for

Life in Washington D.C., there are ways you can be in solidarity with people from across the country supporting the sanctity of life. In “The Catholic Spirit” and on social media we have been promoting local events.

On Jan. 22, at 11 a.m., there will be a peaceful rally outside the statehouse in Trenton. Then at 5 p.m., I will preside at a livestreamed Diocesan Respect for Life Mass at St. Francis of Assisi Cathedral, Metuchen at which time Pro-Vita awards will be presented to two local pro-life champions. If you cannot participate in the Mass at 5 p.m., you can watch it afterwards on the diocese’s website: www.diometuchen.org.

Another event I want to call your attention to is a New Jersey state spiritual initiative: a Day of Prayer & Fasting on Jan, 22 for an end to abortion. I encourage as many people as possible to join in this spiritual observation that day. It will bring increased graces needed to change hearts and minds from a mindset of death to one of life.

St. Paul reminds us that our true battle “is one not of flesh and blood, but rather against principalities, powers, against the darkness of this age…”

(Eph 6:12) In addition, our own diocesan Office of Human Life & Dignity under the good leadership of Father Timothy Christy, our vicar general, and Jennifer Ruggiero, director of the office, is promoting a Novena for Life from Jan. 21 to Jan. 29, and a Rosary for Life Rally Jan. 29 at 1 p.m. in Woodbridge in front of American Wellness Center — abortion clinic, near St. James Parish. I plan to join in these events, too! Please check our website for details and updates on these local events: https://diometuchen.org/humanlifeanddignity With the recent introduction of the sad Reproductive Freedom Act (S3030/A4848) in the New Jersey Legislature, it is imperative for us to

stand up in opposition to abortion in our own state. In truth, we must do so as committed disciples of Christ.

This is a proactive piece of legislation which would protect and expand reproductive rights, including abortion, should Roe v. Wade be overturned, allowing abortion up until the baby in the womb is delivered. Please take a moment to learn more about this egregious bill by visiting https://njcatholic.org/reproductive-freedom-act.

I hope you will be able to take part in our local pro-life efforts this year.

What unites us at these events is a reverence for the sacredness of all human life and the sense of awe — that God creates each of us uniquely, He loves us and He never gives up on us. God is indeed with us and has been guiding us through the pandemic. I have great confidence that the good people of our diocese will join together in our efforts this year. Now is a critical time to make our voices heard on behalf of all life. We must never grow tired of standing with the weakest and most vulnerable. It is our Gospel mandate.

Our legislators need to hear clearly from us about the certain disaster of this pending bill against life. Let us also keep our eyes fixed on making our annual pilgrimage to Washington D.C., next year, God willing, for the March for Life. We must not underestimate our public witness at this event each year.

As I mentioned, our youth in our catechetical programs, Catholic schools and at our Catholic Student Center at Rutgers University have been very involved in the pro-life movement and I am so grateful for that! We will

shortly observe our Catholic Schools week, celebrated this year from Jan. 31 to Feb. 6, and we should be proud of what our Catholic schools do. This edition of “The Catholic Spirit” highlights our good schools and I would encourage you, if you have children or grandchildren, to consider enrolling them in our schools. We read so much about the rise in the rate of depression amongst our youth in our day. Our Catholic schools teach our young to anchor their hope in Christ who will assist them throughout any challenges they face in life and set their horizon on eternal love and truth. Please support our Catholic schools and other efforts to teach our youth about the love of Christ. Our youth need to know above all else that they matter, have a purpose and bright future in Christ.

Among our greatest gifts are the children of the next generation and I am grateful for all we can do together as a Church to nurture them in the faith and instill in them the confidence to let the love of Christ shine through them!

Know of my love for you and prayers for you, and I ask that you please continue to pray for me. As we begin this New Year, let us place our hope and trust in Him who will never let us down! God bless you all!

With renewed best wishes, I remain Yours in Christ,

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

Catholic Spirit THE

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Brother Bishops Last month Bishop James F. Checchio served as co-consecrator for the ordination of Bishop William D. Byrne, the tenth Bishop of Springfield. They are pictured above with Bishop Austin Vetter, for whom Bishop Checchio also served as co-consecrator when he was ordained as the eleventh Bishop of the Diocese of Helena in 2019. Bishop Checchio was ordained Bishop of the Metuchen Diocese in 2016. The three bishops studied together as seminarians at the Pontifical North American College in Rome and are now shepherds in their own right.

— Photo courtesy of Bishop Checchio.

of the

OUR DIOCESE

Where in the diocese can it be found?

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Image Week

Diocese reconsecrated to Mary at prayer service

By Christina Leslie Correspondent METUCHEN — A mother always desires to lovingly aid her children in their time of need. On the eve of Mother Mary’s feast day recognizing her as Our Lady of Guadalupe, patroness of the diocese, scores of her children gathered once again to renew their promise to follow her Christcentered example.

Bishop James F. Checchio, his face mask adorned by a picture of Our Lady, knelt in the sanctuary of the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi Dec. 11 and led the faithful in praying the Sorrowful Mysteries of the rosary.

Before him, mounted on the cathedral wall, was the large portrait of the Virgin which one year before had been

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JANUARY 21, 2021

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Joan Wilson, a member of St. Helena Parish, Edison, who serves as an ambassador by liaising between the diocese and her parish for all activities related to the diocese’s consecration to Jesus through Our Lady of Guadalupe, prays at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi as the diocese marked its first anniversary of consecration.

draped with roses on her feast day. Bishop James F. Checchio addresses the The bishop referred to those fragrant faithful from the ambo at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. The flowers during his reflection. “This past year has reminded us bishop led the faithful in a livestreamed that roses also come with thorns,â€? praying of the rosary and a prayer of Bishop Checchio said to the parish renewal of the act of consecration Dec. ambassadors and St. John Neumann 11, the vigil of the feast of Our Lady of Pastoral Center staff seated before Guadalupe, through whom the diocese him, as well as those faithful partici- was consecrated to Jesus through her pating in the service via livestream. last year. — Gerald Wutkowski Jr. photos “The coronavirus, racism, actions of those in our church‌ We always have to remember we don’t face suf- the foot of her son’s cross reflected fering alone. We give thanks for this that love and set an example for the dear woman of love and compassion, rest of us, he asserted. Whether it is a member of our family, the sick, an solace and healing, soliimmigrant, a prisoner, darity and hope for the

even a child requiring future.� assistance to remain a Bishop Checchio Catholic school student, was assisted by Msgr.

all those in need offer Robert J. Zamorski, Cathedral rector, and us the chance to follow Mary’s example of lovBishop Austin A. Vetter,

ing assistance. shepherd of the Diocese “We can never doubt of Helena, Mont. The Mary is with us all the prayer service was the capstone of a week-long time,� Bishop Checchio said. “Our mission is celebration of the “Light the greatest that has ever ing Hearts on Fire� Marian dedication, which

been: to make Jesus more known and more loved included an examination in our world. Mary ac of the Lectio Divina, companies us just as she a rosary for youth and — Bishop James F. offered assistance to St. school children, a virtual Checchio Juan Diego‌ May Our holy hour, a roundtable Lady of Guadalupe place discussion on immigraher mantle over each one of us, to give tion and individual parish renewals. us her protection and comfort and The bishop asked the congregastrength.â€? tion, “Where would we be without our Once again enlisting the aid of dear mother and her love for us? Even Mary as Mother of the Church, Bishop given the grace from our consecraChecchio renewed the diocese’s contion, it is that love that impels us to secration, praying, “Each day, we go forth.â€? Mary’s visit to her pregnant Continued on page 7 cousin Elizabeth, and solemn vigil at

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Fervent devotion to Guadalupe bodes hope for world

PERSPECTIVES

In 1531, while Protestants and Catholics were fighting with each other in Europe, down in Mexico, a woman surrounded by stars appeared to a poor Aztec Indian, named Juan Diego, and she asked him to go to the bishop to build a church in her honor. And to give credence to what Juan Diego would say, she entrusted

roses to him to place under his poncho — and since it was winter, these flowers would convince the bishop that Juan Diego was not hallucinating. Before he left for his mission, however, he asked the woman her name and she replied: “Call me mother.”

When Juan Diego arrived at the Bishop’s residence, he repeated what the woman surrounded by stars told him — and as he lifted his poncho to fetch the flowers, the roses fell to the ground — but what caught the bishop’s eye was not roses, but an image of

Mary which had been woven into the did not throw up our hands in disgust very fabric of Juan Diego’s poncho. and withdraw from public sight. To As embodied spirits, the contrary, like St. Juan we need signs. The image May the Image Diego, we remembered the of Mary which still hangs words of Our Lady spoken in the Basilica of Guadalupe of Guadalupe in Aztec to the peasant who in Mexico City is a graphic would herald her message: conjure in sign not only to the Mayan, “Call me mother.” And we Aztec and Castellans who adapted to a new way of beour minds inhabit Mexico but to us, ing Church, through Zoom, an image of through TV, through social too, that Mary is the mother of all — regardless of ethnic the woman media platforms such as background, language, creed the Church’s presence on who wants Facebook, Instagram and or color.

In December 2019, us to call her CatholicSpirit.com.

Bishop James F. Checchio During the pandemic, consecrated the Diocese of we held on dearly to our “mother.”

Metuchen to the care of Our faith in the sense of “trust.”

Lady of Guadalupe, “Star We had to trust that Jesus of the New Evangelization.” Little did was, is and always will be Lord and we know at the time that the follow- Savior, even when our world looks ing year would be both challenging more fallen than redeemed. The panand difficult. Little did we suspect that demic taught us to hope that God was the coronavirus would literally tempo- still in control of this topsy-turvey rarily shut down our parish churches, world plagued by shut-downs, masks, Catholic schools, even the diocesan social distancing and now the advent center. Still, we remained steadfast in of vaccines that promise better than 90 the conviction that Our Lady of Guada- percent efficacy. Recalling the shroud lupe would protect us who inhabit the of darkness that enveloped St. Francis four counties that make up the Diocese of Assisi Cathedral where the Conseof Metuchen. We did not panic. We cration of the Diocese of Metuchen to

the care of Our Lady of Guadalupe took place, we also remembered how the light of dawn followed and eventually eclipsed the darkness.

This is fodder for meditation for all of us who just entered the year of our Lord 2021. Let us ponder the role of Mary in our own salvation history. As the Mexican Gloria recounts: “Glory to you, oh God who chose to give us your mother as our mother!” What a privilege. We all know how dear our mothers are to us — all the more dear is the Blessed Mother to our Lord; yet, he chose to share her maternal love with all of us. May the Image of Guadalupe conjure in our minds an image of the woman who wants us to call her “mother”— and to remember that with Jesus in our heart, in our home, in our Church and in our world, better days are ahead. The words of St. Paul to the Romans could easily be our own. “For I am convinced that neither death, nor life, nor angels, nor principalities, nor present things, nor future things, nor powers, nor height, nor depth, nor any other creature will be able to separate us from the love of God in Christ Jesus our Lord.” (Rm 8:39) Father Comandini is managing editor of The Catholic Spirit.

One of Dr. LeRoy Carhart’s “Clinics for Abortion & Reproductive Excellence” — named to yield the Orwellian acronym CARE — is located about a mile away from my parish in Bethesda, Maryland. Earlier this year, 40 Days for Life prayed daily outside Carhart’s abortuary, which specializes in lateterm “terminations.” Parishioners from a number of local churches participated in the 40 Days program, hoping to save some innocent lives and to help women in crisis pregnancies find genuine care.

Forty Days’ presence at the Carhart facility evidently did not sit well with some of the students at a nearby county-run high school. So a “pro-choice drive-by” of Carhart’s clinic was organized in mid-December: perhaps 15 cars, festooned with posters, circled

the parking lot of the office complex in which Carhart conducts his abattoir.

Participants in the drive-by may have been surprised that 40 Days for Life, on learning of the plans for this vehicular demonstration, invited pro-life people to conduct a rosary vigil on a sidewalk outside the parking lot, so that the “drive-by” couldn’t avoid people with a different point of view — people who were also marking the feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, depicted as pregnant on St. Juan Diego’s miraculous tilma.

My wife and I participated in the rosary vigil, along with friends from our parish, other Catholics, and a stalwart if small contingent of Democrats for Life whose presence may have shocked the Carhart supporters. It was an instructive hour, giving me the opportunity to ponder the placards and posters displayed by the drive-by people, their slogans, and the chants of a man and a woman holding up a large banner – “Reproductive Rights = Human Rights” – amidst our rosary-praying group.

To begin with the last: it was striking that, while the 20 or so people in our

January 21. One car featured a crude, homemade poster declaring “Never Going Back!” and illustrated by the hoariest of “pro-choice” symbols: a coat hanger crossed out within a circle. Their high school, I surmised, did not acquaint its students with some relevant American history, i.e., Bernard Nathanson’s testimony that, in his days as a pre-Roe v. Wade pro-abortion activist, he and others exaggerated the number of “coat hanger” abortions by many orders of magnitude.

There was no opportunity to engage the drive-by folks. One would have liked to ask the students if they were taught in sophomore biology that the product of human conception is a human being with a unique genetic identity. Or whether they had ever discussed in class that first principle of justice, enshrined in the Declaration of Independence, which tells us that innocent human life deserves legal protection in a just society. Or if they knew exactly what Dr. Carhart did in a late third-term abortion.

Reason rarely persuades angry people, alas. In the tough years ahead for the culture of life, compassionate witness is going to be ever more important: especially the witness of caring for women in crisis pregnancies, too often abandoned by the men who created their crises. No woman in America has to have an abortion; humane, life-affirming alternatives are available. Pro-life people must make those alternatives more visible in 2021.

Body & Soul

By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Pro-life supporters must make alternatives more visible

How to report abuse

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).

For more information on how to report abuse, visit our diocesan website: https://diometuchen.org/healing

group were relaxed and as cheerful as the circumstances permitted, the two banner holders were all angry, all the time. Both indulged in Che Guevarastyle clenched fist salutes. Both kept hollering the inane slogan, “Keep your Bible off my body,” although it was not clear how that injunction applied to the male half of the team. (He later switched to “Keep your Bible off my Constitution,” a chant suggesting a sad ignorance of the reason-based natural law arguments against abortion.)

Then there was the content of that banner. Whatever else might be said about angry pro-abortion people (whose aggravations seem not to have been soothed by the prospect of the most radically pro-abortion administration in history), they don’t seem to have any sense of irony — or of Newspeak. For how can they claim to be defending “reproductive rights” when their entire enterprise is aimed at stopping reproduction, lethally?

As for the student-participants in the drive-by, their behavior did not reassure me that my tax dollars were being well-spent on their education, and in a county that prides itself on the alleged excellence of its state schools. More than a few of them flipped the finger at us (and thus at the icon of Our Lady of Guadalupe that one of our number carried). Others made a point of taking cellphone videos, perhaps imagining that their new friends in federal power would ship us off to Guantanamo come

5

Compiled from the Catholic News Agency

Study says frequent church attendees avoided decline in mental health

Americans who attend religious services weekly are the only demographic group appearing to show improved mental health in 2020, despite the stresses of the coronavirus pandemic and other events, says a new survey.

The survey otherwise shows significant self-reported mental health declines among those previously in excellent health.

In 2019, about 42 percent of those who reported attending religious services weekly told Gallup that their mental health was excellent. In 2020, 46 percent said the same, an increase of four percentage points.

Only 35 percent of those who attend services nearly weekly or monthly reported excellent mental health, down 12 percentage points from last year. Among those who attend seldom or never, 29 percent reported excellent mental health, down 13 percentage points.

While coronavirus restrictions have often limited peoples’ ability to attend

religious services, the Gallup survey did cent for the total sample. not ask respondents whether they faced The coronavirus has killed some 290,000 Americans — generally the elsuch limits.

Overall, responderly and those with dents reporting excelvulnerable health — In 2019, about 42 and hospitalized even lent health declined percent of those who from 43 percent to 34 more. The virus and restrictions aiming to percent, while those reported attending who reported excellimit its spread have lent or good health religious services weekly hindered social and declined from 85 economic life as well told Gallup that their percent to 76 percent. as mental health care.

About 18 percent mental health was excel- Unemployment and reported fair mental underemployment lent. In 2020, 46 percent rates have soared. health while 5 percent reported poor mental The year 2020 said the same, an also witnessed a conhealth.

Gallup has controversial presidential increase of four ducted the same Noelection, protests percentage points. vember Health and against coronavirus restrictions, demonHealthcare Survey every year since 2001. strations against poThe latest Gallup survey was conducted lice after the death of George Floyd, and Nov. 5-19. Its random sample of 1,018 major civil unrest, riots and vandalism U.S. adults age 18 and older claims a throughout the United States.

Survey responses of self-reported margin of error of plus or minus 4 per-

excellent mental health are “eight points lower than Gallup has measured in any prior year,” the polling company said Dec. 7.

The other demographic group showing little change in excellent mental health was by partisan affiliation: Democrats were down only 1 percentage point from last year, compared to other partisan groups. However, only 29 percent of Democrats self-reported excellent mental health, compared to independents, who were down 11 points to 32 percent, and Republicans, who were down 15 points to 41 percent.

Demographic groups that tended to report excellent mental health the most were those making $100,000 or more, those aged 50 to 64, married people, and men. Those groups which tended not to report excellent mental health were those making under $40,000, those aged 1829, the unmarried, and women.

“These demographic patterns have been mostly consistent over the past 20 years,” Gallup said.

WORLD & NATION

WORLD & NATION

Worshiping at Mass in person is more fulfilling spiritual experience

By Matt Hadro

JANUARY 21. 2021

more than 10 people, including inside a church. Local police stopped a Palm Sunday service at a Chincoteague Christian church that was attended by 16 people.

While both the Arlington and Richmond dioceses curbed Sunday Masses in the spring because of the spread of the virus, churches have been open again for Mass with the Sunday obligation still lifted during the pandemic.

O’Malley suggested that, for Catholics who are homebound during Christmas, they could perhaps pray the Liturgy of the Hours together.

“We can bend the knee before Christ in the creche. Worship in this sense, again, is not just thinking pious thoughts.

It is using the material dimensions of Catholicism to enter into deeper communion with Christ,” he said.

In his letter “Let us return to the Eucharist with Joy” released in September, the Prefect of the Congregation for Divine Worship and the Discipline of the Sacraments said Catholics must return to Mass “as soon as circumstances permit.”

Cardinal Robert Sarah said in his letter of televised or live-streamed services that “no broadcast is comparable to personal communication or can replace it. On the contrary, these broadcasts alone risk distancing us from a personal and intimate encounter with the incarnate God who gave himself to us not in a virtual way.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

WASHINGTON, D.C. — After Virginia’s governor appeared to suggest that church attendance is immaterial to the act of worship, one theologian says that Catholics see worship differently.

Virginia Gov. Ralph Northam (D) asked religious leaders to consider holding liturgies outdoors or virtually during the Christmas season, as he announced new restrictions on public gatherings to control the spread of the coronavirus.

“The holidays are typically times of joy and community. We gather together, we celebrate our faith, and we celebrate with family,” Northam said.

“But this year, we need to think about what is truly the most important thing.

Is it the worship, or the building? To me, God is wherever you are. You don’t have to sit in the church pew for God to hear your prayers.”

Northam, who has no formal theological education or training, added that “worship online is still worship.”

“So I strongly call on our faith leaders to lead the way and set an example for their members. Worship with a mask on is still worship. Worship outside or worship online is still worship,” he said.

Dr. Timothy O’Malley, director of education at the McGrath Institute for Church Life and academic director of the Notre Dame Center for Liturgy,

said that for Catholics to stay home the spread of the virus indoors, it might out of caution during the pandemic be a smart move for Christmas Mass. might be laudable or necessary, but it “Much of the history of the liturgy is incorrect to say personal prayer, or has grown out of, at least initially, even watching Mass online, can like- outdoor processions,” said O’Malley. for-like replace attending a Mass in- “There is nothing intrinsically unperson.

Catholic about outdoor “You can’t just Eucharistic liturgies. watch Mass and get “On the contrary, these And in the time of a the same thing out of [live-streamed] broad- global pandemic, it attending the Mass,” may be wise to considhe said. “The Eucha- casts alone risk distanc- er such opportunities.” rist alone makes that ing us from a personal Churches were impossible, to receive not subject to the the Body and Blood of and intimate encounter Northam’s new gatherChrist on Christmas is limits in Virginia, with the incarnate God ing a gift. It requires presand the governor indience.” cated that the exempwho gave himself “In-person worship tion was due to the to us not in a matters,” O’Malley addrecent Supreme Court ed, and if Catholics are ruling in Diocese of virtual way.” unable to attend Mass, Brooklyn v. Cuomo.

— Cardinal Robert Sarah they should consider the In that ruling, a 5-4 possibility to “worship Supreme Court majortogether in smaller communities,” includ- ity halted the state’s restrictions that ing as individual families in the home. limited some indoor religious services “For Catholics, matter matters,” to as few as 10 people. he explained. “And that means the “We are following suit with that,” Church building is not just a container Northam said, noting that he would for human activity. It is a sacramental only encourage faith leaders and sign of the mystery being celebrated, would not impose a legal mandate on the union of heaven and earth, the them. He also imposed an indoor mask embodied memory of what Christ has mandate on Virginians, but said the accomplished on the cross.” state would not be actively enforcing But, O’Malley said regarding the order at churches.

Northam’s suggestions for outdoor In March, Northam’s public health liturgies, Catholic priests have histori- restrictions made it a criminal offense cally offered Mass outdoors and, given to be at a non-essential gathering of

6 OUR DIOCESE

Church teaches Holy Spirit literally dwells in each of us I recently consulted a website known as “Rhyme Zone” to find out how many common one-syllable English words rhyme with “host.”

Turns out there are only seven: boast, coast, ghost, most, post, roast, and toast.

So, Thomas Ken didn’t have much to choose from when he wrote these lines: “Praise God from whom all blessings flow. Praise him in heaven and here below. Praise him, the king of heavenly hosts. Praise Father, Son, and Holy Ghost.”

Ken, an English clergyman in the late 17th and early 18th centuries, composed that doxology which formed the last stanzas of two of his hymns and is often sung as a hymn on its own.

What jars me is the word “Ghost” — rhymes with “host” — even though I grew up using that term, as we all did in the English-speaking Catholic Church of yesteryear.

I don’t know how that word sounded to the ears of 17th century Anglicans or, for that matter, to mid-20th century me, but I know that now it doesn’t communicate to me the significance of the Third Person of the Blessed Trinity.

The word “ghost” connotes to me, and probably to most people, an encore appearance by someone who has died — perhaps something to be avoided.

I’ve been thinking about this a lot while I have been editing scripture commentaries written by Bill Ayres, who was a co-founder, with the late Harry Chapin, of Why Hunger, which works, in its own words, “to end hunger and advance the human right to nutritious food in the U.S. and around the world.”

I edit Bill’s weekly commentaries for RENEW International, and I have been inspired by the intensity — I might even say urgency — with which

he invites his readers to awaken to the presence of the Holy Spirit in their lives.

I’m reminded of this every time I baptize a child, using a ritual that mentions over and over again that the grace of the sacrament comes through water and the Holy Spirit. And the baptism ritual looks ahead to the child receiving “the fullness of the Holy Spirit” in confirmation.

“Spirit” is an ethereal concept, though, and the references to it in the liturgy of the Church may be hard to apply to everyday life.

But Bill brings the meaning of these references into vivid focus.

Recently, for instance, he wrote this: “Growing up, I never realized that the Holy Spirit lived in me and in each person. Did you? It has made a difference to me to know that the Spirit is in me and in everyone that I meet — even though they may not be aware of it. I experience the Holy Spirit as a kind of partner, someone who is there in the good times of blessing and the challenging times that could also be bless-

ings if I could only see them that way.”

This is not a ghost story to Bill, nor should it be to us. When the Church teaches that the Spirit dwells in each of us, she means it literally — that God is present to us at every instant of our lives.

How can we know that? One way is by turning off the noise and busyness that distract us from consciousness of our interior lives — by being “still,” as Psalm 46 advises us.

Bill Ayres has done that, and he asks us, “How about you? Have you become friends with your inner partner, the Holy Spirit? Try it. It is a gradual process of listening and becoming aware of the presence within you.

That is not to say that you will always be tuned in to the Spirit or that your troubles will melt away. What it does mean is that you are not alone. Let us remember the prevailing message of the Scriptures: ‘I am with you.’”

Charles Paolino is a permanent deacon of the Diocese of Metuchen.

He ministers at the Parish Community of Our Lady of Lourdes in Whitehouse Station.

Life-affirming work continues for families in crisis

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

The year 2020 was a year that we will certainly never forget. Not only did the COVID-19 pandemic send ripples of loss across American families, it has resulted in an economic crisis and a childcare crisis. It has upended our social institutions and our way of life and is an ongoing threat to public health across the globe. Despite all of this, however, it is estimated that more than 115 million babies were born worldwide in the last nine months in the shadow of the corona virus.

Sadly, COVID-19 has isolated pregnant women from friends and family — the support systems that mothers, new and experienced, rely on to deal with anxieties and share in excitement.

It is also piled on unpredictability around procedures, new concerns about exposures to the virus and exacerbated postpartum mental health stress.

In many cases, circumstances associated with the pandemic such as unemployment, underemployment, food and housing insecurity and social isolation can impact a person or a family’s ability to care for a newborn – causing some to question if they should bring new life into this crazy world.

Just last month a scared mom

brought her healthy newborn to a Safe Haven site in New Jersey – the fourth Safe Haven surrender in our state in 2020. The Safe Haven law, which went into effect in August 2000, allows infants up to 30 days old, free of abuse or neglect, to be anonymously surrendered to staff at hospital emergency rooms, police or fire stations, and ambulance or rescue squads. Once cleared by a medical professional, surrendered infants are placed into an adoptive home. Even during the pandemic, there are Safe Haven sites in every New Jersey town prepared to help. No shame, no blame, no names (www.safehaven.org).

While the Safe Haven law is aimed at keeping newborn babies safe, pregnancy help centers can provide a safe haven for pregnant moms in need. In fact, as we battle this pandemic, the critical services that these local centers provide are more important than ever before. The staff and volunteers at these centers are truly frontline workers, first responders and heroes who provide compassionate care for women who, in many cases, are alone and afraid. Here is a snapshot of some of their work: Fran Johnson, director of Pregnancy Aid & Information Center in Raritan, explains that their facility had to close temporarily due to COVID-19, but, thankfully, they were able to reopen in early September. Since the reopening, they have been able to provide material needs and counseling for numerous pregnant moms and families. She recounts recently helping to provide

clothing for a pregnant mom who came to the center in the freezing weather with shoeless and jacketless children in tow. Fran is continuously inspired by the generosity of so many local parishes, Knights of Columbus Councils and others who have provided monetary donations as well as baby items during this perilous time.

Joan Fasanello, director of Life Choices, Inc. in Phillipsburg, has also been touched by the kindness of so many. Businessmen, priests and others have reached out to her over the last nine months, offering services and financial assistance to ensure her center stays open. Interestingly, Joan notes that since the pandemic began there has been an increase in married moms facing unplanned pregnancies coming in for help.

Joan also runs the St. Anne Center in Phillipsburg, which provides much needed daycare for essential workers. In addition, they recently opened Grandma’s House, a residence for women who are pregnant and homeless. They currently have two residents, one of whom just gave birth!

Christine Riggio, director of Office Operations for Life Choices Resource Center in Metuchen, was pleased to share that they were able to give out 90 “Spread the Joy of Christmas” gift cards to children in need, thanks to the generosity of local rosarians and Catholic schools students. In addition, throughout the pandemic, Life Choices has continued to provide free ultrasounds and have helped clients with housing,

material needs, clothing and transportation. Christine explains that, with the increase in the number of clients over the last year, the use of Telemed has been a true blessing, providing a safe way for the center to counsel women about their pregnancies and the precious life they hold within. Jo Ann Gerling, chair of the Board of Life Choices, invites anyone interested in helping at their center to sign up for news alerts by emailing LIFECHOICES@online.net.

These are just a few highlights of some of the wonderful life-affi rming work that is being done every day. For a complete listing of pregnancy help centers in our local area, along with contact information, visit: https://diometuchen. org/pregnancy-help. Consider offering a gift of your time, talent or treasure!

As we begin this year, let us pray to St. Gianna Beretta Molla, who is a powerful patron of pregnant and parenting mothers during this pandemic.

St. Gianna herself lived through a pandemic, the Spanish Infl uenza, which took the lives of her three siblings. As a physician, wife, and mother, she knew intimately what it was like to struggle with a challenges during pregnancy. We ask St. Gianna’s prayers for a swift end to the pandemic and for all women who are pregnant, especially those who are particularly vulnerable, that they be supported and strengthened by God and their loved ones during this time of crisis.

Ruggiero is secretary, diocesan Offi ce of the Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life.

lia Parish, Monmouth Junction, “an honor” and added, “soon afterwards, I led a Bible study entitled ‘Mary,’ which was an amazing experience.”

Lynne Soltys, ambassador of St. Helena Parish, Edison, said she used the experienced to imbue her love of the rosary into her students at St. Helena School, where she teaches history.

“I purchased a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and we had a living rosary with each child representing a bead of the rosary and a rose to place in one of three vases,” she said. “We sang songs before and after… It was inspiring to watch the kindergarten classes learn to say the prayers, [and] the eighth grade sing and sign ‘Gentle Woman.’”

St. Mary-Stony Hill Parish, Watchung, ambassador Valerie DeVito “wholeheartedly” accepted the

invitation to serve, noting, “It is important to me to be a witness for my parish and other Catholics…

This public tribute to Our Lady of Guadalupe will remind other parishioners that the efforts of our diocesan consecration have not and must not end. We must continue to remind ourselves of and renew our baptismal promises.”

When Genevieve Virgilio was approached to serve as ambassador of St. Elizabeth-St. Brigid Parish, Far Hills-Peapack, “I immediately accepted, knowing that my heart was already in admiration of Our Lady of Guadalupe,” she said.

“I was eager to share the upcoming months with Bishop [James F.] Checchio as additional prayer opportunities unfolded. It’s been a joyful experience to share our faith with parishioners.”

David Fantina, ambassador at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Bernardsville, noted, “Our Lady of Guadalupe has been very important in the life of my family for as long as I can remember. My late brother lived in Mexico, [and] brought back a statue of Our Lady that remained one of my mother’s most prized possessions for the rest of her life.

“In addition, my wife, Jeanne, and I visited the shrine with our older son, Andrew, when we adopted him from Mexico City many years ago. Our younger son, adopted from Guatemala, was named for St. John Paul II because he was born when the saint was visiting the shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Jeanne and I believe that Our Lady has lovingly formed our family and we are very devoted to her.”

OUR DIOCESE

Parish ambassadors, selected by their pastors to promote prayer and activities during the first year of the diocesan dedication to Jesus through Mother Mary, shared details of their own spiritual journeys.

When Suzanne McCartin-MacIntyre was approached to serve as ambassador of St. John Vianney Parish, Colonia, she immediately said, “Yes” because of her strong belief in the power of prayer and the importance of evangelization.

“The message of Our Lady is one of motherly love. I have personally seen the positive effects brought about because of the devotion of Our Lady of Guadalupe, and I am encouraged that we will once again gather to call on [her],” McCartinMacIntyre said.

Susan Boguszewicz called her selection as ambassador of St. Ceci-

7

Parishioners reflect on ‘Gentle Woman’ as role model

— Christina Leslie

Bishop Checchio leads prayer service on anniversary of spiritual initiative Continued from page 3

entrust ourselves and our desires to your powerful intercession. Help us, joyful mother, through your example of living the Gospel, to faithfully proclaim Jesus

Christ to be the savior of our lives. Lead us by your overflowing grace to return with you to the throne of your son where, with you as our queen and mother, we shall forever enjoy fellowship with him

and all the saints.

“Assist us in prayer to our Father that we, as the Church of Metuchen, be renewed as missionary disciples to set hearts on fire,” Bishop Chec-

chio concluded, “so that the world may come to know the love of Christ that will transform all people. Mother of the Americas and star of the new evangelization, pray for us.”

Honored Guests Left, Vocationist Father Michael Reardon gives St. Michael prayer cards and rosaries to first responders at a Blue Mass at St. James Church, Woodbridge, Dec. 19. Worshipers included members of the Woodbridge Township police and fire departments, first aid squads, emergency medical technicians; Port Reading First Aid Squad and Woodbridge Township Mayor John McCormac. Vocationist Father Thomas Naduviledathu, pastor, St. James Parish, presided; concelebrants were Father Reardon, Father Provincial, and Vocationist Father Deniskingsley Nwagwu, administrator, St. Cecelia Parish, Iselin. The rosaries were made of blue twine as part of the Blue Rosary Guild initiative by confirmation students from St. James and Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish, Middlesex. — photos courtesy of St. James Parish

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 21. 2021

8 OUR DIOCESE

Traditional Mass at Cathedral draws faithful of diocesan apostolate

By Christina Leslie Correspondent METUCHEN — Filipinos from throughout the diocese gathered at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi Dec. 23 for the final night of Simbang Gabi, the nine-day novena to the Blessed Mother.

This year’s celebration, themed “Gifted to Give,” marked the eve of the introduction of the Catholic faith in the island nation 500 years prior; Bishop James F. Checchio, noting the coronavirus would prompt many faithful to participate in the events via livestream rather than in person, observed, “This celebration might be a bit different, but it is still spirit-filled.”

Simbang Gabi, Filipino for “night Mass,” was introduced by Spanish evangelists to the Philippines upon their arrival in the 17th century. Faithful arise before daybreak the nine days before Christmas to attend Mass before they set off to work in the fields. The novena to the Blessed Mother is celebrated during pre-dawn hours, and feature Marian hymns and a procession led by star-shaped lanterns, or parols, representing the Star of Bethlehem. In the Diocese of Metuchen, Simbang Gabi Masses are celebrated each evening of the novena at different parishes.

In his homily, Bishop Checchio recalled the example of St. John the Baptist, cousin to Jesus, who served as the Lord’s herald.

“No one born of woman is greater than St. John the Baptist,” the bishop said. “He takes us right up to the edge of salvation, and his whole life points to Jesus. When he was in Elizabeth’s womb, he stirred when he met Jesus. When he was in prison, he sent the disciples to ask if he was the one who is to come.

“The Church brings the story of St. John the Baptist’s birth to us in these final

days of Christmas,” he continued. “It holds forth to us such an important example.

You and I are to do exactly what St. John the Baptist did with his life: lead others to Christ.”

Bishop Checchio admitted the pandemic had changed so many things in our lives, including the traditions of Simbang Gabi crowds and fellowship, but “it has not crushed our spirits… Faith gives us confidence that he is still guiding us. Let us inspire our commitment to prayer and renew the desire to share the gospel message with others following the rich example of St. John the Baptist. This renewal is needed in the world and Church today,” he said.

Calling the Filipino community’s faith a “great gift,” the bishop urged them to share it in their words and actions, pointing others to Jesus as St. John the Baptist did.

“Jesus Christ was born to save us from spiritual darkness,” Bishop Checchio concluded. “May Christ’s birth light the fire of his love in each one of us so that it will shine so brightly to all that we meet.”

Father Gerry Paderon, coordinator, diocesan Filipino Apostolate, addressed the congregation, saying, “We may have celebrated Simbang Gabi in a different way this year, but it is the same reason we celebrate: our journey with Mary in welcoming Jesus on Christmas day.”

Father Paderon, who also serves as pastor of Queenship of Mary Parish, Plainsboro, revealed the theme of next year’s 2021 pastoral year: “Missio Ad Gentes” or Mission to the Nations, and would mark 500 years since the Catholic faith was introduced to the island nation.

He prayed, “May our strong love and devotion to Mary as our Mahal na Ina [Beloved Mother] form us to be true disciples and witnesses of Jesus to all, always ready to be sent and to be obedient to whatever Jesus asks of us.”

Above, members of the Filippino Catholic community offer prayers in concert with the bishop. Right, a worshiper in prayer recalling the significance of the Simbang Gabi or “Night Mass.” Below, Bishop James F. Checchio prays the “Anamnesis” or “Memorial” of the Eucharistic Prayer.

— Frank Wojciechowski photos

Liturgy reflects growth of Catholics of Hispanic descent in diocese

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

By Allan Caballero The Railroad Town. This is how many know Dunellen, a borough in Middlesex County with a population of about 7,200 people.

Today, Dunellen — as many other communities in the diocese — is known as a town where the Hispanic population is rapidly growing. Not long ago, Hispanics accounted for 14 percent of Dunellen’s population. Today, Hispanics account for 33 percent. The transformation took place in a span of about 20 years.

Last November, at St. John the Evangelist Church in Dunellen, the first Mass celebrated in Spanish in the history of the town took place. The growing Hispanic community inspired Father Alphonsus Kariuki, pastor, St. John the Evangelist Parish, to begin to minister its members in the parish with the collaboration and support of the diocesan Office of Hispanic Evangelization.

Highlights of the Mass included a banner of

Our Lady of Guadalupe, vibrant music and parishioners of non-Hispanic descent graciously welcoming the Hispanic community into the life of their parish.

A sense of joy and unity was visibly present during the Mass. The Church was occupied to capacity, a demonstration of the long desire Hispanic Catholics in Dunellen had for this event to finally take place.

“Welcome to your parish,” said Father Kariuki at the beginning of his homily. Noting that it was of great joy for the community to welcome Hispanics into the life of the parish, Father Kariuki also invited Hispanics to take part in the various ministries of the parish and to invite relatives and friends to the new weekly Mass.

“We truly felt welcomed and at home,” a group of Hispanics expressed at the end of Mass while signing up to be trained as extraordinary ministers of holy Communion and lectors.

What used to be a phenomenon re-

stricted to places like Los Angeles, Miami, Houston or San Diego is becoming the new norm for many towns in the diocese. The stunning images of Our Lady of Guadalupe, quinceañera celebrations, Masses in Spanish and some good empanadas after worship are becoming some of the signs of the rapid demographic changes our diocese is experiencing.

In 1965, there were 48.5 million Catholics in the country. Fifty years later, the number had risen to 75 million. Despite millions of baptized women and men who stopped self-identifying as Catholic, the number of Catholics in the United States keeps growing.

Hispanics are at the heart of the Church’s growth. They account for 71 percent of the growth of the Catholic population in the United States since 1960 and are 40 percent of the approximately 78 million Catholics in the country. This new reality has led 26 of the 90 Catholic parishes in

the diocese to intentionally serve Hispanics.

Today, Catholics of all cultural backgrounds are sharing their churches with fellow parishioners about whom they know little.

This presents the faithful of the diocese with the opportunity to make an effort to know more about each other. It is through collaboration and a faith rooted in the Gospel that allow different communities to collaborate to proclaim the Gospel, pass on the faith to the next generation and to care for the poor and the vulnerable. It is in our home parishes that we are called to overcome the challenges facing society today. Despite our background or country of origin, we are called to be permanent missionaries of the Word of God and to show future generations by our example what it means to be Catholic.

Caballero is director, diocesan Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry, and director, diocesan Office of Evangelization

9 OUR DIOCESE

Holy Night Bishop James F. Checchio presided at Mass on Christmas Eve at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, where worshipers (above center) practiced social distancing and wore face masks. In other photos, clockwise from top left, Bishop Checchio, who also gave the homily, incenses the altar assisted

by Deacon Kenneth Hamilton; worshipers stop to view the creche; Bishop Checchio blesses the creche assisted by Father David Wejnerowski, parochial vicar, and Msgr. Robert J. Zamorski, Cathedral rector, and seminarian for the diocese Ban Thien “Joseph” Ho; the bishop gives the final blessing assisted by seminarian Ho as Msgr. Zamorski, Deacon Rick Fortune, Deacon Hamilton and Father Wejnerowski listen; and Christian Charity Sister Mathilde DeLucy, who served as cantor, sings from the choir loft.

— John Batkowski photos

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 21. 2021

10 OUR DIOCESE

Children of God Father Thomas J. Walsh, left, pastor, St. Barholomew Parish, East Brunswick, and Ann Wierzbicki, principal, St. Bartholomew School, pose with the second grade classes of Cortney Hanson (left) and Lindsey Defeo. The students prayed before the Nativity at St. Bartholomew Church.

—Zofia Ebert photos

13 Rice Bowl grants awarded thanks to generosity of parishioners Catholic Relief Services (CRS) be- of the local 25 percent by running a lieves the 25 percent of CRS Rice Rice Bowl Grants program for food Bowl contributions that remain in the security needs in the Metuchen Diodiocese illustrates the importance of cese. This program allows a variety of our global responsibility as Christians organizations to receive help in their to assist those in need both around the food security mission. Food pantries corner and around the world. and soup kitchens are among the more The 25 percent enables local par- frequent recipients. ticipants to understand the plight of the At the annual Harvest of Hope poor overseas through the experience event Nov. 18, which was held virtuof the poor in their own communities. ally, CCST distributed about $30,000 For more than a decade, the in grants to 13 food banks in the DioCatholic Charities Solidarity Team cese of Metuchen for helping elevate Family Care Placement, has honored CRS’ understanding food insecurity.

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A total of 31 parishes and anonymous donors in the Diocese of Metuchen participated in 2020 Rice Bowl Catholic Program for Lent.

CRS Rice Bowl is the Lenten program of Catholic Relief Services, the official relief and development agency of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. Through CRS Rice Bowl, faith communities in every diocese throughout the United States put their faith into action through prayer, fasting and almsgiving. Lenten alms donated through CRS Rice Bowl support the work of CRS in roughly 45 different countries each year. 25 percent of all donations to CRS Rice Bowl stay in the local diocese, supporting hunger and poverty alleviation efforts.

Since its inception in 1975, CRS Rice Bowl has raised nearly $300 million.

2020 Rice Bowl Grant Recipients Interfaith Hospitality Network of Somerset County Queenship of Mary Society of SVdP, Plainsboro Queenship of Mary Social Outreach, Plainsboro St. James Food Pantry, Woodbridge Feeding Hands, Hillsborough Our Lady of Victories Society of SVdP, Sayreville Community House at St. Thomas, Old Bridge Somerville Area Fish, Inc., Bridgewater Catholic Charites, Diocese of Metuchen, Warren Basic Needs program, Phillipsburg Five Loaves Food Pantry, New Brunswick St. Joseph Parish, Bound Brook Holy Family Conference of Society of SVdP, New Brunswick St. Anthony of Padua Food Pantry, Port Reading

List of donors Queenship of Mary Parish, Plainsboro St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park Nativity of Our Lord Parish, Monroe Township St. Helena Parish, Edison St. Bernard Parish, Bridgewater St. James Parish, Woodbridge Catholic Charities Diocese of Metuchen Holy Trinity Parish, Bridgewater St. Joseph Parish, Plainfield Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale St. James Parish, Basking Ridge St. Patrick’s Parish, Belvidere St. Jude Parish, Blairstown Holy Trinity Parish, Bridgewater St. Joseph Parish, Carteret Mary, Mother of God Parish, Hillsborough St. Mary Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington Holy Trinity Parish, Helmetta St James the Less Parish, Jamesburg Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Piscataway St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Port Reading St. Joseph Parish, Raritan Borough St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Montgomery Township-Skillman St. Matthias Parish, Somerset Immaculate Concepcion Church, Sommerville Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Perth Amboy Good Shepherd, Hopelawn Holy Family Parish, New Brunswick St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Catholic Parish, Three Bridges St. John Vianney Parish, Colonia St. Mary Parish, South Amboy Various Donors

SPH-202207 Fall 2020 Leapfrog Ad 9.5x11.875.qxp_SPH-202207 Fall 2020 Leapfrog Ad 9.5x11.875 12/15/20 7:02 PM Page 1

11 OUR DIOCESE

Exceptional safety for exceptional times

WE’RE PROUD TO BE AMONG THE NATION’S SAFEST HOSPITALS Saint Peter’s University Hospital is the only hospital in Middlesex County to have earned an “A” grade for excellence in the commitment we have to the patients and families we serve.

Sponsored by the Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen Note: The Leapfrog Group grades hospitals on data related to how safe they are for patients. For more information, visit www.hospitalsafetygrade.org

JANUARY 21. 2021

Safely treating you better...for life.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

To learn more about Saint Peter’s University Hospital, call 732.745.8600 or visit saintpetershcs.com

12 OUR DIOCESE

Diocesan-sponsored hospital receives national recognition for safety NEW BRUNSWICK — Saint Peter’s University Hospital, a member of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, received an ‘A’ for the Fall 2020 Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade.

A national distinction, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade looks at publicly available measures of safety such as the hospital’s performance in preventing medical errors, injuries, accidents, infections and other issues related to patients in their care. Developed under the guidance of a national panel of experts, the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade uses up to 27 measures of publicly available hospital safety data to assign grades to more than 2,600 United States acute-care hospitals twice per year.

The Hospital Safety Grade’s methodology is peer-reviewed and fully transparent with results free and available to the public. The Safety Grade assigns an ‘A’, ‘B’, ‘C’, ‘D’ or ‘F’ grade to all general hospitals across the country and is updated every six months.

The Hospital Safety Grade is compiled under the guidance of the nation’s leading experts on patient safety and is administered by The Leapfrog Group, which for nearly 20 years has collected, analyzed, and published hospital data on safety, quality, and resource use. The Hospital Safety Grade is available free to the public with the goal of empowering

people with the information they need to make better, informed healthcare decisions.

“Safety is always a number one priority at Saint Peter’s, but receiving this recognition amidst a pandemic is even more meaningful,” said Leslie D. Hirsch, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System. “Receiving Leapfrog’s highest safety grade reinforces patient confidence in the ability to receive quality medical care without compromise. At Saint Peter’s, we are proud of our ongoing ability to safely deliver the highest quality, evidence-based clinical practices along with the compassionate care that is the hallmark of our Catholic mission.”

The expert panel selected 28 measures of patient safety, analyzed the data and determined the weight of each measure based on evidence, opportunity for improvement and impact. The Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade places each measure into one of two domains: (1) Process/Structural Measures or (2) Outcome Measures, each accounting for 50 percent of the overall score.

• Process Measures represent how often a hospital gives patients recommended treatment for a given medical condition or procedure. For example, “Responsiveness of hospital staff” looks at patients’ feedback on how long it takes

for a staff member to respond when they request help.

• Structural Measures represent the environment in which patients receive care. For example, “Doctors order medications through a computer” represents whether a hospital uses a special computerized system to prevent errors when prescribing medications.

• Outcome Measures represent what happens to a patient while receiving care.

“We are extremely grateful to hospital leadership and healthcare workers who have remained steadfast in prioritizing patient safety as our nation battles COVID-19,” said Leah Binder, president and chief executive officer of The Leapfrog Group, a nonprofit organization.

“This ‘A’ is a testament to the care and commitment of those who work for Saint Peter’s University Hospital. With the current pandemic exposing existing flaws within the U.S. healthcare system, we appreciate you putting patient safety first. Lives depend on it.”

The Leapfrog Group’s letter grade scoring system allows consumers to quickly assess the safety of their local hospital and choose the safest hospital to seek care.

To see Saint Peter’s University Hospital’s scores as they compare nationally and locally, and to find safety tips for

patients and families, visit the Leapfrog Hospital Safety Grade website at www. hospitalsafetygrade.org.

Saint Peter’s University Hospital, a member of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, is a 478-bed acute-care teaching hospital. Saint Peter’s, which received its sixth consecutive designation as a Magnet® hospital for nursing excellence by the American Nurses Credentialing Center in 2020, is a state-designated children’s hospital and a regional perinatal center, and is a regional specialist in diabetes, gastroenterology, head and neck surgery, oncology, orthopedics, and women’s services.

The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital provides families with access to a full range of pediatric specialties, including a nationally recognized Level III Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, pediatric surgery and orthopedic surgery featuring innovative anterior scoliosis correction.

The hospital offers a midwifery service and the brand-new state-of-the-art Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center.

Saint Peter’s is a sponsor of residency programs in obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics and internal medicine, and is a major clinical affiliate of Rutgers Biomedical and Health Sciences.

Visit saintpetershcs.com or call (732) 745-8600.

COME PRAY A

ROSARY F O R

L I F E

with Bishop James F. Checchio

In solidarity with those at the March for Life in Washington, DC and across the country January 29, 2021

1:00 PM Main Street Woodbridge

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

You are asked to park and meet in the St. James Parish parking lot at 12:45 pm 369 Amboy Ave, Woodbridge, NJ

The rosary will be prayed in English and Spanish after the 12:10 pm daily Mass at St. James, for those who wish to attend.

FACE COVERINGS AND SOCIAL DISTANCING ARE REQUIRED FOR MORE INFORMATION, CONTACT: amarshall@diometuchen.org

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732-902-4200 Parkerlife.org |

13 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Students from Perth Amboy Catholic School recreate the logo of this year’s observance of the National Catholic Educational Association’s annual Catholic Schools Week (Jan. 31-Feb. 6) at St. Stephen Church: Nicolas Gall-Gonzalez, Camila Rivas, Kelsy Feliciano, Loriangel Rodriguez and Samanta Rey-Gonzalez.

— Caitlin Norek photo

JANUARY 21. 2021

A SPECIAL SUPPLEMENT OF THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT • JANUARY 21, 2021

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

14

launched its Health Science Careers According to co-coordinator of Program this September. Taught by the Marian Scholars Program and AP Dr. Bob Berckes, the program cur- teacher Nancy Bonham, “The prorently includes two full-year courses, gram’s graduates, who are in college Medical Terminology and Dynamics now, are so grateful for the intensity of of Health Care in Society. Next fall, the class. They feel it has given them a Immaculata’s traditional substantial advantage in Anatomy and Physiology “We continue to their coursework on the class will be adapted to university level. Providembrace Msgr.

Rutgers’ specifications. ing valuable input to us, All three classes involve [Eugene B.] Kelly’s our grads have helped dual enrollment, depenfine-tune our program.” dent on university stanMore time in the inspiration as we dards. “My students love studio is welcomed in the look to provide school’s impressive Vithe opportunity to earn college credit,” Berckes the most valuable sual Arts program, taught said, “and they find the

by Deirdre Rosinski, a material very intriguing.” education for our professional architect, Launched four years current and future and award-winning filmago, Immaculata’s select maker and artist Joe DeSpartans.”

Capstone Program has Vito, an alumnus from the benefited from the longer class of 1998. Students —Joan Silo, class periods and regular can take classes in ceramHead of School feedback generated by ics, traditional studio art, current college students, digital design and phowho tracked through the pilot program. tography, videography, AP Art History, Capstone’s emphasis is on developing broadcasting, and portfolio developsophisticated research, reading, writ- ment. Very popular among students and ing, and presentation skills. The stu- parents is the hands-on Spartan News dents chose contemporary topics with Network Program, which provides an a 21st-century edge and they dynami- incredible experience in broadcasting, cally delve into the material in prepara- writing, filming, and producing. tion for their year-end presentations.

“Monsignor Kelly laid the foun-

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WHY GEORGIAN COURT? Values-based Education Learn and live our Mercy values of respect, justice, compassion, service, and integrity.

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Strong Outcomes Our graduates earn $10,000 more than expected 10 years after graduation.

Committed Community We’ll help you become your best self.

Diversity GCU is a welcoming place for ALL students.

Several options to visit:

Registration information will be available on our website by 2/1!

Tradition. Excellence. Achievement.

A 2017 National Blue Ribbon School

> GUIDED WALKING CAMPUS TOUR > VIRTUAL ONE-ON-ONE COUNSELOR CHAT

To learn more, call 732-987-2700 or visit expand.georgian.edu Georgian Court University does not discriminate in its recruitment and admission of students, regardless of gender, race, creed, color, religion, age, national and ethnic origin, sexual orientation, disability, or veteran status.

JANUARY 21. 2021

Follow us on:

> DRIVE-THROUGH CAMPUS TOUR

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Check out the VIRTUAL TOUR on our website!

dation for future Immaculata administrations to look at rigorous educational opportunities to elevate our curriculum,” states Head of School Joan M. Silo, Ed.S. “For example, we continue to enhance our Chesterton Classical Program, which integrates humanities, philosophy, theology, and language. With block scheduling, our elective offerings expanded, featuring such pertinent classes as mobile app development, forensic science, criminal justice, engineering, history and sports, and web design. Our 2021 programming will expand further with additional signature electives in business, science, music, and visual arts.

This year, from Jan. 31 to Feb. 6, the United States celebrates Catholic Schools Week. This year’s theme is “Faith. Excellence. Service.”

“Immaculata is so blessed to have had such a visionary leader at its beginning to identify those three tenets as its guide,” Silo said. “We continue to embrace Msgr. Kelly’s inspiration as we look to provide the most valuable education for our current and future Spartans.”

For information about Immaculata High School, visit www.immaculatahighschool.org

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Sixty years ago, when Immaculata High School’s founder, Msgr. Eugene B. Kelly, and his advisors formulated plans for the soon-to-be-opened high school in Somerville, they established Catholic values and academic excellence as its cornerstone.

A Marine chaplain who served on the World War II battlegrounds in Asia, Msgr. Kelly wanted Immaculata to have a legacy of challenging its students, building integrity, character, and faith, and fostering service.

Today, more than 10,000 graduates later, Immaculata proudly embraces that legacy with an alumni base who have excelled in their professional and personal lives. Following the blueprint established in the early 1960s, Immaculata’s administration and faculty continually look at its academic offerings to ensure the curriculum remains competitive and relevant for this and future generations of students.

While simultaneously facing the demands of teaching and learning through a pandemic, Immaculata introduced the block schedule this year, which allows more time for the intense concentration of subject matter.

Partnering with Rutgers University, New Brunswick, and maximizing the block schedule advantages, the school

15

Parochial high school strives to follow legacy established by founder

16 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Be a Part of Something BIG,

By Starting Someplace SMALL.

240 Mountain Avenue • Somerville, NJ 08876 • 908.722.0200

For more information on the admissions process or to schedule a private tour, please email: admissions@immaculatahighschool.org.

“Everyone at Immaculata, from my friends, to my teachers, to my coach has pushed me to reach my maximum potential. Without these people and the opportunities afforded by a smaller school environment, I couldn’t be the person I am today nor would the same possibilities await me.”—Class of 2020 Alumnus

17

Students prepare for Ivy League

Daughter’s Current Program?

You Should

Sabrina DiIorio

Simone Koryszewski

Andrea Ruiz

Continued on page 27

Touring Tuesdays

Zoom Meetings

Explore our spacious 80-acre campus with members of our Admissions team.

Learn why Successful Journeys Begin Here during a virtual chat with our Admissions team.

Class of 2020: Over $20 Million in academic scholarships/grants received by 76 graduates 8:1 Student/Teacher Ratio 100% College Attendance 80 Advanced Placement Scholars 50 Clubs & Activities 11 Varsity Sports Teams Bloomberg Financial Markets Lab

Contact admissions@mountsaintmary.org or (908) 757-0108, ext. 4506

MOUNT SAINT MARY

ACADEMY

1645 Route 22, West at Terrill Rd. watchung, nj 07069 www.mountsaintmary.org

JANUARY 21. 2021

with Distinction status as well.

At the Mount, DiIorio serves as president of the Italian Club and Chemistry Club. She attended the IACE (Italian American Committee on Education) Summer Program in Narni, Italy, in 2019. She has earned Honor Roll distinction during every marking period.

DiIorio is a Peer Minister, a four-year varsity soccer player and team captain. She was selected to the Skyland Conference All Division First Team in 2019 and 2020. DiIorio volunteers at a local family shelter where she spends time with children, and at senior citizen homes, playing bingo with the residents.

Koryszewski, of Lebanon, will study neuroscience and behavior at Columbia in the fall where she will also play lacrosse.

“I decided to attend Columbia because of the unique core curriculum offered, locations in New York City, and ability to receive a high-level education while playing top-level lacrosse,” she said.

A member of the Cum Laude Society, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Math Honor Society and the National Latin Honor Society, Koryszewski was named an AP Scholar with Distinction by the College Board.

Simone earned Third Team All-Group 1 (2018-2019), First Team All-Valley Division (2018), and First Team AllRaritan Division (2019) honors while playing on the Mount lacrosse team.

She volunteers as a youth minister at St. Casimir’s Parish, Newark, and is a coach for the youth lacrosse goalies for STEPS Elite Lacrosse.

“I am so excited to further my education at Columbia University in the fall where I plan to study human rights and I may double-major in sociology at Columbia College,” said Ruiz, of Edison. “When I began researching schools for my college applications, I realized that Columbia was my home.

Attending Columbia has been a dream of mine since I was in the eighth grade because I knew I belonged in New York City.”

“I love the constant movement of

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

WATCHUNG — Sabrina DiIorio, Simone Koryszewski and Andrea Ruiz, seniors at Mount Saint Mary Academy, were recently notified that they were chosen by Columbia University to continue their successful journeys at the prestigious school in the fall.

“Mount Saint Mary Academy is incredibly proud of Sabrina, Simone and Andrea’s acceptance to Columbia University in addition to all of their accomplishments while enrolled at the Academy,” said Sofia Santos, director of Student Services. “They are remarkable students who have worked extremely hard and truly represent the Mercy Core Values.

“This is the first time, in my 19 years at the Academy, that we have three students attending Columbia University from the same graduating class,” she added. “I am glad our girls will have each other’s support as they journey through the next four years together.”

Sabrina DiIorio, of Scotch Plains, plans to study financial economics at Columbia, where she may continue to play soccer.

“I have visited the campus many times and I’ve always felt such a strong sense of community and welcoming from the diverse group of students and faculty. Columbia’s environment is academically challenging yet collaborative, and I believe I will be able to thrive and take advantage of all that is offered,” said Sabrina.

“I am very grateful for having the Mount community by my side and I am looking forward to my next four years at Columbia.”

DiIorio is a member of the Cum Laude Society, National Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Math Honor Society and President of the National Italian Honor Society. She earned the Outstanding Award in AP Macroeconomics as a sophomore, the Outstanding Award in AP Language & Composition as a junior, as well as Bloomberg Financial Markets Lab Certification and the Gold Medal Award in the National Italian Exam. She was a semifinalist in the Quality of Life Competition and Euro Challenge and Fed Challenge competitions. She earned AP Scholar

Meet the Mount

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Are You Happy With Your

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK 18

Catholic Schools Week Schedule of Open Houses, Virtual tours Annandale

Perth Amboy

Carteret

Phillipsburg

East Brunswick

Somerville

Immaculate Conception 908-735-6334 www.ICSAnnandale.org Jan. 31 – Open House 9 am to noon

Perth Amboy Catholic School 732-442-9533 www.pacatholicschool.org Virtual Open House

St. Joseph 732-541-7111 Sjps.net Open Admissions

Saints Philip & James 908-859-1244 www.sspjnj.org Virtual Tours; private tours by appt.

St. Bartholomew 732-254-7105 www.school.stbartsed.com Virtual Tour on website

Edison

St. Helena 732-549-6234 https://www.sthelenaedison.org Virtual tours

Metuchen

Old Bridge

St. Joseph 732-549-7600, ext. 221 www.stjoes.org In-person campus tour by appointment

St. Thomas the Apostle 732-251-4000, ext. 8253 Saintthomasib.com Feb. 21 – tours by appointment only

St. Francis Cathedral 732-548-3107 www.stfranciscathedralschool.org Jan. 31 – Informational Zoom meetings for prospective families

St. Ambrose 732-679-4700 www.stambroseschool.net Call for a private tour

Immaculate Conception 908-725-6516 www.icsschool.org Jan. 31 – Virtual Open House 10 am Feb. 7 - Open Registration 10 am to noon

Woodbridge

St. James 732-634-0500, ext. 300 www.sj-school.org Virtual Open House

Visit our website at https://www.sthelenaedison.org/ Click on “Our School” and go to the category labeled “School Resources.”

There you will find: 1. The Virtual Tour 2. Our Commercial 3. Our Student Classroom Tour 4. How to arrange a virtual teacher conference

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Saint Helena School

JANUARY 21, 2021

We’re looking forward to your virtual visit!

Be part of a Blue Ribbon Catholic education

2018 National 930 Grove Ave

Edison, NJ 08820 (732) 549-6234 and experience a new level of learning.

Blue Ribbon School

Each year, Catholic Schools Week gives us the opportunity to shine a light on all of our schools and their transformative work. Although there are certainly many challenges that face us during this Catholic Schools Week (Jan. 31-Feb. 6), there is still so much to celebrate in every school community.

Across the Diocese of Metuchen, in all of our schools, students and teachers adapted to all of the necessary COVID-19 restrictions so that they could enthusiastically return to school and live the mission of our schools: provide an atmosphere in which a child can grow in faith, excel in academics and serve others. Just as our pastors, principals and teachers found a way to continue to educate when we closed in March, they have forged an innovative path that has given students a sense of belonging and well-being when we reopened the schools.

One of those initiatives has been outreach to our diocesan seminarians to help support them in their vocation. Each school “adopted” a seminarian with whom they communicate. Students have prayed for them, written to them, made cards and even been on Zoom meetings with them. During Catholic Schools Week, there will be more calls and Zoom meetings to seminarians who will be speaking to students about their vocations.

This is such a wonderful opportunity for students to accompany a seminarian on their

spiritual journey.

A hallmark of Catholic schools is service to others, outreach into the parish and into the community as well as within the school itself.

Despite all the challenges presented by COVID-19 restrictions, the students in our schools: sponsored sock/hat/mitten drives to donate to local shelters; provided Baskets for the Needy to feed families during the holidays; donated art supplies to Saint Peter’s University Hospital in New Brunswick for the children being cared for there; collected toiletry items for veterans living at Menlo Park in Edison; and, made rosaries to be given to police officers.

Students are cheering senior citizens and veterans by writing to them or sending cards. The Works of Mercy remain at the core of all that occurs in our schools.

Masses, live or live-streamed, are in integral part of the life of all schools. Students have participated in virtual retreats, prayer services, Eucharistic adoration and personal prayer in the classrooms. All of these faith experiences assist teachers as they combine the Catholic faith and its teachings with academics to help form a Catholic worldview that will influence students throughout their lives. The unique partnership between the home and the family helps to teach children respect of self and others and develops self-discipline. This is significant advantage of a Catholic school education.

During Catholic Schools Week, there will be testimonials from students and fami-

lies speaking about the advantages of a Catholic school education. Some schools will have virtual visits for parents and grandparents.

While COVID-19 restrictions limit visitors to the schools at this time, you are encouraged to take virtual tours of the schools by visiting their websites.

Thanks to the extraordinary efforts of our pastors, principals, teachers and parents, we have provided a safe environment for students from Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 12 that has enabled them to grow in both faith and knowledge. They have celebrated virtual Christmas concerts and gone on virtual

field trips. Some students are remaining at home and studying virtually. Once again, our Catholic schools have proven that they are innovative, flexible and focused on the wellbeing of our students.

Noted Bishop James F. Checchio, “Thanks be to God that our schools truly are communities of love and faith where Catholic values build up our students to be leaders in our Church, families, and society at large.

Where would we be without our Catholic schools?”

Ayoub is Secretary for Education, diocesan Department of Education

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

By Ellen F. Ayoub

19

Schools have much to celebrate despite restrictions caused by coronavirus

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 21, 2020

20 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 21, 2021

Underclassmen from prep school can shape nation’s future on council Five students from Saint Joseph High minded and civically engaged students an School, Metuchen, were selected to serve opportunity to share their insights directly on the Congressional Youth Advisory with Congressman Pallone’s office and Council (CYAC) created by Congressman staff, according to a press release.

Frank Pallone Jr. (D-6th District).

Members are appointed to a term that Juniors Varad Donruns from January through wad, Miguel Castro and In order to ensure During their term on August.

Michael Weikum and sophthat this opportunity is omores Aidan Dul and Arthe Youth Council, available to as many stumon Singh were selected to dents as possible, students students will learn may only serve for a total of serve on the council, which was created in order to gain about current issues two years and are required important insights from the to re-apply each year. Durhigh school students in the facing their commu- ing their term on the Youth Sixth Congressional Dis- nity, provide impor- Council, students learn trict. about current issues facing “The CYA provides tant feedback and their community, provide students with a unique important feedback and opportunity for civic en- have a unique experi- have a unique experience to gagement. I’m ecstatic that ence to learn about learn about the role of Conwe will have our students gress in our democracy. representing Saint Joe’s in the role of Congress Requirements to serve our nation’s capital for such on the include comin our democracy. pletingcouncil a rewarding experience,” an application that said Ryan Lechner, social contained a personal statestudies department chair at ment between 250 and 500 the private, Catholic all-boys college pre- words that explained the student’s interest paratory school operated by the Brothers of in government and in serving as a Youth the Sacred Heart.

Advisory Council Member for Pallone; With a belief that youth need to have and two letters of recommendation from an active role in shaping the nation’s future, individuals who can attest to their interest in the CYLC is designed to give community giving back to the community.

w w w. p a c a t h o l i c s c h o o l . o r g

Michael Weikum

Aidan Dul

Miguel Castro

Varad Donwad

Armon Singh

21 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

EXPERIENCE

THE SAINT JOE’S DIFFERENCE

To schedule a campus tour, visit admissions.stjoes.org or call us at 732 549-7600, x221

JANUARY 21. 2021

We invite families to join us for an in-person campus tour with our Director of Admissions.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Schedule a campus tour today!

22 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Encouraging Students to Strive for Spiritual Growth, Academic Excellence and Moral Integrity

SJV JV Academicc Excellence A Nationally recognized

Blue Ribbon School

• • • •

Accredited 3 & 4 yr Preschool Program Full Day Kindergarten Grades 1-8 with Before & Aftercare

OPEN HOUSE: SUNDAY, JANUARY 31 9:00 AM to 12:00 PM Tours are available before and after this date by appointment

314 Old Aller ton Rd, Annandale, NJ 08801 908.735.6334 w w w. I C S A n n a n d a l e . o r g

Achieving academic excellence within a faith filled community.

420 Inman Ave, Colonia, NJ * 732-388-1662

* https://school.sjvianney.com

ST. BARTHOLOMEW SCHOOL NO MANDATORY SERVICE HOURS OR BINGO REQUIRED!

470 Ryders Lane, East Brunswick

732-254-7105

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Outstanding academics through the lens of our Catholic faith

       

Visit our website for a VIRTUAL TOUR school.stbartseb.com

   

Full Day Pre K-3 and Pre K-4 Programs Voted “Best in Middlesex County” Kindergarten through Grade 8 – Cognia Accredited Extended Childcare Program Safe, Nurturing, Family Environment with Electronic Surveillance throughout Campus Full Time Nurse and Guidance Counselor Modern Gym, Music Room, and Classrooms Independent PreK and K-8 Playgrounds Advanced Technology including Digital Whiteboards in Every Classroom, Laptops, SurfacePros, iPads, Chromebooks, Digital Microscope, 3-D Printer, WiFi throughout, IXL Tech , Google Classroom NWEA MAP Growth Adaptive Assessments to Track Individual Student Growth Fully Automated Lending Library Student Leadership Programs Numerous Extracurricular Offerings

schedule, you can’t stop the music at STA. The incredible efforts by students and faculty culminated in a superb virtual concert that was presented throughout the month of December on YouTube channel @stahsedison, featuring modern and classic Christmas songs by the concert band, jazz band, concert choir, and acapella select chorus.

“In times of great need and pain, the performing arts have always been a source of comfort for the world,” said Cullinan.

“We’re proud to not only provide that comfort for our community, but also to teach our students the uniquely Christian value that lies in sharing that comfort with others.”

On the stage, STA student actors along with a small army of backstage support and adult leaders produced not one, not two, but three shows over a three-month period. As they say in show business, the show must go on! Starting with a Wild West-inspired performance of Shakespeare’s “The Merry Wives of Windsor,” followed by a Halloween Spook-a-Rama, and culminating with the hilarious physical comedy “Noises Off,” the actors of each show incorporated physical distancing and masks seamlessly into their creative interpretations. And, for the first time ever, live audiences were joined by viewers at home with on-demand showings for family and friends who were not able to attend. drama department director Lea Gossett (’95) acclaimed the

St. Thomas Aquinas High School

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

The challenges of the 2020-21 school year have proven to be, unsurprisingly, unlike any other. Yet despite the temporary uncertainties and restrictions, St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, has redoubled its efforts to providing a vibrant and wellrounded experience to its community of students with diverse interests and talents by inaugurating new traditions and finding different ways to continue old ones.

St. Thomas Aquinas (STA) has had to break the mold many times this academic year, starting with a multi-day welcome for freshmen in August, which featured physically distanced icebreakers and teambuilding activities for the newest members of STA and meet-and-greets with faculty and staff. Even before that, the athletics, drama, and music departments were already in full swing. The football, soccer, cross country, and tennis teams took to the fields with NJSIAArecommended health measures in place, setting the stage for one of the best fall seasons for our athletes in years.

The music department stepped off with practices for a field show that would bring to life the classic Queen hit, “Bohemian Rhapsody.” Their innovation, under the direction of Joseph Cullinan (STA class of 2002), continued into the fall, letting nothing stand in the way of developing students’ musical talents and passions.

From outdoor rehearsals to a split rehearsal

23

Students, staff learn to be flexible, focused despite challenges

Father Keith M. Cervine, right, chaplain, St. Thomas Aquinas High School, presides at the diocesan institution’s annual Ring Mass for juniors. The students’ parents were able to watch the Mass via the Internet.

— Michael Kowalczyk photo

hard work of everyone involved in making the fall drama season a reality, adding, “We are very proud of the fact that we’ve been able to safely continue what we love to do, and also provide others with some much-needed entertainment during this difficult time. Our motto has been to keep moving forward responsibly, focus on the present, and make every moment we are lucky enough to have together as a Drama Department count.”

As the weather cooled, life at STA

continued to heat up and a new tradition was born. Students and faculty gathered at the beginning of December for the first Christmas Tree Lighting. The event, organized by the Student Council with the assistance of the Campus Ministry Department, featured Christmas carols led by members of the school choir, a reading of the Christmas Story, prayer and the blessing of the trees, and a surprise appearance by Santa Claus himself, who Continued on page 27

Be Aquinas

Visit our Virtual Open House &

stahs.net

JANUARY 21. 2021

St. Thomas Aquinas High School is a co-educational secondary school located at 1 Tingley Lane, Edison, NJ 08820 – 732 549 1108 – Follow us on Facebook, Twitter, and Instagram @stahsedison for all the latest!

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Freshman for a Day

24 CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

Earn your M.A. Theology,

M.A. Pastoral Ministry or one of several graduate certificates, or simply take a graduate course.

Not sure?

Ask us your questions at Seton Hall’s virtual

Graduate Open House on February 20, 2021.

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

www.shu.edu/spirit

25

Academic Excellence for grades Pk-8 A Step Above...

“Refer a edit Family” Cr cial Aid

Finan • Top 15% Nationally in Mathematics & Language Arts Available • Award-Winning Academic Teams • Extra-Curricular Clubs & Athletic Programs • Engaging & Differentiated Instructional Strategies • Curriculum Aligned to Data-Driven Standards for Academic Excellence • STEM & Technology Enhanced Classrooms with 1:1 Computing • Enrichment, Intervention, & Elective Classes • Offering Art, Music, Technology/Coding, P.E., World Language, “Genius Hour”

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

The Saint Ambrose School Advantage

OUR MISSION: The Mission of St. Ambrose is to cultivate confident and reflective life-long learners, whose personal goals and achievements are rooted in a foundation of Catholic doctrine, social self-awareness, and engaging academic experiences. The students of St. Ambrose are inspired to be dynamic members of our community supporting each other while embracing the challenges of today with a positive mindset.

PROUD TO OFFER:

• • • • • •

Toddler Time (18 months to 3 years old) Engaging & Structured Pk-3 & Pk-4 Program Extended Care 6:30am to 6:30pm Advanced Security Systems Successful Virtual Learning Action Plan Supportive Faith-Based Learning with a “Growth-Mindset” Approach

LITTLE SCHOLARS

Visit Our Website: www.stambroseschool.net Call Us For a Private Tour!

732-679-4700

81 Throckmorton Lane, Old Bridge

Become part of our St. Ambrose Family today... a traditional community!

LIKE US ON FACEBOOK!

FACEBOOK.COM/STAMBROSESCHOOL

FOLLOW US ON INSTAGRAM!

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(Pre-K3 - Kindergarten) • Dedicated teachers assist in developing social independence, scholastic confidence, and positive relationships.

• Multimodal reading readiness program to instill listening, speaking, and spelling proficiency.

• Weekly “special” classes in Art, Library, Computers, Gym and Music.

JANUARY 21. 2021

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS WEEK

26

St. Matthew School 1 0 0 S e y m ou r Ave nu e, E d i s on N J

stmatthewtheapostle.com/school

Educating Tomorrow’s Leaders since 1954

Fosters Excellence, Cultivates Leaders, Educates through Gospel Values

St. James Catholic School & Childcare 341 Amboy Avenue • Woodbridge, NJ 07095

Visit our Virtual Open House online at: www.sj-school.org Grades Pre K 3 - 8th 5 Full-Days In-Person Classes Advanced Language Arts & Algebra (Grade 8) IXL Personalized Skill Based Learning Cross Curricular Technology Integration Fine and Performing Arts • Spanish Library and Resource Center Athletics and Extracurricular Activities Extended Day - Before and After School

For more information please call (732)634-0500 ext. 300 or visit our website at www.sj-school.org

Pre-K3 through Grade 8 • Half day and full day Pre-K3 and Pre-K4 Full day Kindergarten • Morning care and extended care available

School hours: 7:50 AM-2:35 PM

Top Achieving School AdvancEd Accredited Rigorous Academic Program

TO SCHEDULE A PRIVATE TOUR CALL 732-985-6633

Strong Catholic Identity Google Education, Chromebooks, Interactive Whiteboards STEM/STREAM Program Next Generation Science Standards Community Service Activities for all grades After school sports and clubs All faiths are welcome Summer program 13 Acre campus Convenient payment options Tuition incentives and assistance available

"We are committed to the intellectual, moral, and spiritual development of our children, in a safe and nurturing Catholic environment, to the honor and glory of God." St. Matthew School Mission Statement

For information please email: jschaefer@saintmschool.org

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

WE CHOOSE FORWARD.

EVERY TIME.

UC’s innovative approach provides a quality education while keeping our students and our community connected. UC students are prepared for the real, virtual and spiritual worlds.

OPEN HOUSE | APRIL 21st • 7PM Register at www.unioncatholic.org today!

1600 Martine Avenue • Scotch Plains, New Jersey 07076

UCH518_CatholicSpirit_Spring_OH.indd 1

1/12/21 2:57 PM

Continued from page 23

Hospital through art, spiritually and monetarily supported an acutely ill child with donations and a first-ever “Drive Thru Spaghetti Dinner,” nurtured people’s faith with a four-week Virtual Advent Retreat on YouTube, and gotten together for worship and praise with physically distanced masses and prayer services. Three of the biggest Masses of the year had to take different form: Aquinas Star Christmas Mass was attended by a limited number of musicians, student leaders, and Campus Ministry student members while the Mass was recorded. While parents were not able to attend the annual Junior Ring Mass, they were also able to watch the event on demand. And the annual Catholic Schools Week Mass is being divided up over four days in order to permit every grade level to celebrate in person.

The fun doesn’t stop when the bell rings at the end of the school day. Adding to the already-rich selection of student-led extracurricular clubs, a whole host of new clubs have joined the mix this school year, including the Amnesty International Club, Future Business Leaders of America, and

OUR DIOCESE

lit the trees as the audience counted down to zero.

“I was honored to be a part of planning and celebrating the very first STA Christmas Tree Lighting, which I think was even more meaningful because we were able to make it happen during the pandemic,” said senior Anna Caruso, a member of Student Council and event planning co-chairperson.

Senior Karina Diaz, the other co-planner added, “I thought it was an important event to introduce this year, an event that would bring the community together during a time of separation.”

All throughout this school year, STA students and faculty have tried to make the most of their time both during and after school. The Campus Ministry Department has continued its dual mission of guiding students in their journey on the path of faith and serving the communities that they live in. Both missions are more important today than ever. Since the fall, students and faculty have fed those in need through food drives, brought joy to the children at Saint Peter’s University

27

Despite COVID-19, St. Thomas Aquinas High thrived in, out of classroom

One of the ways students at St. Thomas Aquinas High School kept busy despite the COVID-19 pandemic was through the Drama Department. On the stage, student actors along with backstage support and adult leaders produced three shows over a three-month period.

— Michael Kowalczyk photo the Record Club. These clubs and existing favorites such as Gaming Club, International Club, Art Club, and Pro-Life Club

continue to meet regularly, with some modifications of course, and even host guest speakers via videoconference.

Accomplished academy students look forward to studying at Columbia Continued from page 17

the city that is always flowing with people of different interests and beliefs,” she added.

“I think that one of the best ways to learn is from listening to others. The city environment would fit perfectly into my ideal college experience. I want to be able to become a better version of myself as well as give back to the community in doing so.”

Ruiz noted that the Mount has helped foster her passion for social justice, especially through its Quality of Life Innovations project, which inspired her to choose human rights as her major.

“Not many universities offer this major,” Ruiz said, “so I knew that Columbia

would be the best place for me to focus on what I wanted to study. I have always enjoyed my history classes, especially Global Studies, which I took with Mrs. Iacono my sophomore year. Social patterns and change fascinate me, and I want them to be a part of my career.

“I plan to become a human rights lawyer in the future, and I feel that Columbia would give me the best opportunities to guide me to do what I love.”

Ruiz has competed with the Mount’s Euro Challenge and Fed Challenge teams.

She is a member of the Model United Nations Club, the Peer Facilitators Team, she has been a writer and co-editor of the

school blog, “A Peek at Mount,” and a member of the Respect Life Club, Student Council, Latin Club, and Spirit Club. As a junior, she was a competitor in the Quality of Life project.

Ruiz placed varsity soccer and captain of its junior varsity team and was a starter on the freshman basketball team and the U.S. Parma Club Soccer.

Ruiz earned AP Scholar with Distinction status, was named to the Cum Laude Society, and was named a National Hispanic Scholar by the College Board and a National Merit Commended Scholar. She earned the Bronze Award in 2018 and the Gold Award in 2019 in the National Latin

Exam Awards. She received high honors, has been named a Mercy Distinguished Scholar, and received Bloomberg Financial Market Labs certification.

A member of the National Latin Honor Society, National English Honor Society, National Honor Society, and National Math Honor Society, Ruiz earned the St. Michael’s College Book Award for Scholarship and Service and the Girl Scout Silver Award.

Outside of the Mount, Andrea has participated in her youth group and JusticeWorx. She was a camp counselor, working with preschool-aged children and works at Estime’s Café.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 21. 2021

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

OUR FAITH

28

Is 'purgatory ' in Bible?/Kneel, sit, stand? ’

Pope Francis

ANGELUS

January 6, 2021 Today, we celebrate the Solemnity of the Epiphany, that is, the manifestation of the Lord to all peoples: in fact, the salvation wrought by Christ knows no boundaries. It is for everyone. Epiphany is not an additional mystery, it is always the same mystery as the Nativity, viewed, however, from the dimension of light, the light that illumines every man and women, the light to be welcomed in faith and the light to bring to others in charity, through witness, in the proclamation of the Gospel. Isaiah’s vision, reported in today’s Liturgy (see 60:1-6), resounds in our time and is more timely than ever: “darkness covers the earth, and thick darkness the peoples” (v. 2), the text from Isaiah says. With that background, the prophet announced the light: the light given by God to Jerusalem and destined to enlighten the path of all the peoples.

This light has the power to attract everyone, near and far, everyone sets out on the path to reach it, verse 3). It is a vision that opens the heart, that makes the breath come easier, that invites hope.

Certainly, the darkness is present and threatening in everyone’s life and in the story of humanity; but God’s light is more powerful. It needs to be welcomed so that it might shine on everyone. But, we can distance this light from us. But we can ask ourselves: “Where is this light?” The prophet caught a glimpse of it from afar, but that was already enough to fill the heart of Jerusalem with irrepressible joy. Where is that light? The Evangelist Matthew in his turn, recounting the episode of the Magi (see 2:1-12), shows that this light is the Baby of Bethlehem, it is Jesus, even if His kingship was not accepted by everyone….He was born not only for some, but for all men and women, for all peoples. The light is for all peoples, salvation is for all peoples….

Alma Redemptoris Loving Mother of the Redeemer Gate of Heaven, star of the sea, Assist your people who have Fallen, yet strive to rise again.

To the wonderment of nature You bore your Creator, Yet remained a virgin after as before.

You who have received Gabriel’s Joyful greeting, have pity on us Poor sinners. Amen.

Some 50 years ago, I converted to the Catholic Church. But one question has always bothered me: Where will I find the word “purgatory” in the Bible? (Elmer City, Wash.)

Q

Question Corner

By Father Kenneth Doyle This is a question I am often asked. The answer is that you won’t find the specific word “purgatory” in the Bible. But the concept is surely there — the notion of a period of purification after death before one is worthy to enter heaven.

In fact, even before Christ the Jewish people recognized that there could be such a need and believed that the prayers of those still living could aid in that cleansing. In the Second Book of Maccabees (12:39-46), Judas Maccabeus prays for his fallen comrades who had died in battle while wearing amulets dedicated to pagan idols.

That Old Testament passage tells us that Judas turned to prayer as an expiatory sacrifice and “thus he made atonement for the dead that they might be absolved from their sin” — showing his belief that the deceased could still be helped by the

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intercession of the living.

In the New Testament, arguably the clearest reference to purgatory comes in Matthew’s Gospel (12:32), where Jesus states that “whoever speaks against the Holy Spirit will not be forgiven, either in this age or in the age to come” — implying that there are at least some sins that can be forgiven in the next life.

Such Scriptural references leads to the Church’s belief, stated in the Catechism of the Catholic Church, that “all who die in God’s grace and friendship, but still imperfectly purified, are indeed assured of their eternal salvation; but after death they undergo purification, so as to achieve the holiness necessary to enter the joy of heaven” (No. 1030).

ferred posture after receiving. Could you comment? (southern Indiana)

After a series of work-related moves, I find myself on my fourth Catholic parish in the last 10 years. At the first one, after receiving Communion, people returned to their pews and knelt until the Communion vessels were cleaned and the priest and deacon had returned to their chairs. Then there followed a few moments of quiet reflection.

At the second church, everyone remained standing until the priest returned to his seat. At the third one, the celebrant told everyone to “please be seated after the last person is served Communion.

There's nothing to be gained either by kneeling or standing.” My most recent parish is a mix of all of the above; the priest gives no signal at all as to the pre-

The common practice in the United States is that the faithful remain standing during the distribution and reception of Holy Communion. What happens next is that people have options. Typical is the guideline provided on its website by the Diocese of Cleveland: “The period of sacred silence should begin as soon as the distribution of Holy Communion has been completed. At this point the faithful may sit or kneel. The faithful should not be required to stand during the purification of the vessels, or until the reposition of the Blessed Sacrament.”

I believe that parishes should, within reasonable limits, allow for individual choice. In 2003, in response to a query from the U.S. bishops' conference regarding the posture of the congregation following Communion, the Vatican's Congregation for Divine Worship and the Sacraments said that it was not its intention to “regulate posture rigidly in such a way that those who wish to kneel or sit would no longer be free.” Perhaps the wisest approach, then, is simply to let congregants choose their posture while they make their individual thanksgiving for the gift of the Eucharist.

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

tive are stunning. A researcher on healthy aging has termed these qualities “crisis competence” and the elderly are experts at it, even when they need assistance to meet basic daily needs.

I have found solace in the basics of our Catholic faith, even when the sacraments have been out of reach. Resting with Jesus, Mary and Joseph at the manger during the Christmas season — even as we were forced to go back into lockdown — helped me to find meaning in the midst of our trials.

On Dec. 8, 2020, Pope Francis announced a “Year of St. Joseph” to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the declaration of Joseph as patron of the universal Church.

The focus on St. Joseph is timely.

With his customary realism, Pope Francis reflects on Joseph’s acceptance and courage in the face of inexplicable circumstances. “Only the Lord can give us the strength needed to accept life as it is,” he writes, “even when we fail to understand it completely.” The pope suggests that God chose Joseph to guide the beginnings of Christ’s earthly life because of his “creative courage.” The carpenter of Nazareth “was able to turn a problem into a possibility by trusting always in divine providence.”

Likewise, when God seems not to help

us — and for some that is how it seems like the pandemic death toll rises – this does not mean that we have been abandoned, says Francis, “but instead are being trusted to plan, to be creative, and to find solutions ourselves” like Joseph did.

During the first days of this new year, I’ve turned to another figure as well — that of Mary, under the title of Our Lady of Hope. Jan. 17, 2021, marks the 150th anniversary of a Marian apparition in the small French village of Pontmain. For more than 30 years the pastor of this village of 500 inhabitants taught his parishioners to pray to Mary with confidence and perseverance under the title of Our Lady of Hope in all their needs. But in January of 1871, France was losing miserably in a war they had started against the German states. With the Prussian army within 50 miles of Pontmain, the villagers feared annihilation. As they gathered with their pastor for Sunday afternoon devotions on Jan. 15, they voiced their desperation: “What is the use of praying? God no longer hears our prayers!”

Yet just two days later Our Lady appeared over Pontmain, writing a message in capital letters across a starry night sky: “BUT PRAY MY CHILDREN. GOD WILL ANSWER YOUR PRAYERS VERY SOON.”

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Joseph’s ‘creative courage’ can be guide

Thank God we’ve finally left 2020 behind!

We’ve entered a new year with great hopes for better times, along with a little trepidation. For many of us, V-day — when we roll up our sleeves and get vaccinated — will likely be the biggest event of 2021.

In 2020 we learned to embrace “the adventure of living one day at a time” rather than counting on ‘best-laid plans.’

We maintained constant vigilance and drafted policies and procedures for every likely scenario — even as circumstances changed every day.

The irony is that our frail seniors are teaching us how to face the fear and uncertainty of each day with patience and humor.

The elderly have surrendered nearly all of their independence, personal autonomy and direct contact with loved ones, in exchange for safety, unguaranteed though it may be.

Their patience, resilience and perspec-

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Jesus: ‘Believe in the Gospel!’

Beginning last year, Pope Francis declared that annually the Third Sunday of Ordinary Time would be celebrated as the “Sunday of the Word of God,” a special yearly reminder that Sacred Scripture enables “the Church to experience anew how the risen Lord opens up for us the treasury of his word and enables us to proclaim its unfathomable riches before the world” (Aperuit Illis, 2). The Holy Father puts before us the inestimable value of studying the Bible by quoting St. Ephrem, who observes that God “has hidden in his word all treasures, so that each of us may find a richness in what he or she contemplates” (Commentary on the Diatessaron, 1, 18). The Word of God revealed in the Bible provides a rich commentary on our lives as followers of the Lord — opening up for us the depth of God’s love, the unrelenting offer of his mercy, and the promise of his grace as we seek to conform our lives more precisely to the image of his beloved Son. This intentionality is beautifully manifest in this Sunday’s Gospel in which St. Mark presents a sum-

SCRIPTURE STUDY

By Msgr. John N. Fell mary of Jesus’ entire outreach. He describes Jesus as opening his public ministry in Galilee, proclaiming God’s good news that “this is the time of fulfillment.

The kingdom of God is at hand!” and then calling upon those who would be his followers to “Repent, and believe in the gospel!” (Mk 1:15). By calling Jesus’ testimony “the gospel of God,” St. Mark indicates that God is the author of Jesus’ preaching as well as its content. Everything revealed by Jesus has God the Father as its source and subject. Jesus’ call to “repent, and believe in the gospel!” takes on extra meaning when we understand the particular language St. Mark uses. The word “repent” is a derivative of the Greek word “metanoia.” Metanoia means to change one’s way of looking at things or to think differently. The call to metanoia is a call to look at life through the eyes of Jesus, putting his plans and priorities in place of one’s own. In his call to “believe in the gospel,” Jesus was not talking about something purely intellectual.

Rather, he was challenging his listeners to trust in or entrust themselves to the good news, to look at life

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE

SUNDAY, JANUARY 24 - WEDNESDAY, FEBRUARY 13

1743-1815 January 31

Crosiers

Born in Sicily, he was educated at Naples and wanted to enter religious life, despite his father’s opposition. But he persevered and entered the Congregation of Clerks Regular of St. Paul, or Barnabites, though the conflict prompted a long illness. He was ordained in 1797, serving as superior of two colleges for 15 years and in other posts. More and more he exercised his priesthood by hearing confessions, and his health was affected. He was seen as a living saint; one miracle attributed to him was stopping the flow of lava from an eruption of Mount Vesuvius in 1805.

Saints

 

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           

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        

       

 

                                                                                                                                                 

JANUARY 21, 2021

Jon 3:1-5, 10 / Ps 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 / Mk 1:14-20 Acts 22:3-16 or Acts 9:1-22; / Ps 117:1b,c 2 / Mk 16:15-18 2 Tim 1:1-8 or Ti 1:1-5 / Ps 96:1-22, 2b-3, 7-8a, 10 / Mk 3:31-35 Heb 10:11-18 / Ps 110:1, 2, 3, 4 / Mk4:1-20 Heb 10:19-25 / Ps 24:1-2, 3-4ab, 5-6 / Mk 4:21-25 Heb 10:32-39 / Ps 37:3-4, 5-6, 23-24, 39-40 / Mk 4:26-34 Heb 11:1-2, 8-19 / Lk 1:69-70, 71-72, 73-75 / Mk 4:35-41 Dr 18:15-20 / Ps 95:1-2, 6-7, 7-9 / Cor 7:32-35 / Mk 1:21-28 Heb 11:32-40 / Ps 31:20, 21, 22, 23, 24 / Mk 5:1-20 Mal 3:1-4 / Ps 24:7, 8, 9, 10 / Heb 2:14-18 / Lk 2:22-40 or 2:22-32 Heb 12:4-7, 11-15 / Ps 103:1-2, 13-14, 17-18a / Mk6:1-6 Heb 12:18-19, 21-24 / Ps 48:2-3ab, 3cd, 10-11 / Mk 6:7-13 Heb 13:1-8 / Ps 27:1, 3, 5, 8b-9abc / Mk 6:14-29 Heb 13:15-17, 20-21 / Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6 / Mk 6:30-34 Jb 7:1-4, 6-7 / Ps 147:1-2, 3-4, 5-6 1 Cor 9:16-19, 22-23 / Mk 1:29-39 Gn 1:1-19 / Ps 104:1-2a, 5-6, 10 and 12, 24 and 35c / Mk 6:53-56 Gn 1:20-2:4a / Ps 8:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 / Mk 7:1-13 Gn 2:4b-9, 15-17 / Ps 104:1-2a, 27-28, 29bc-30 / Mk 7:14-23 Gn 2:18-25 / Ps 128:1-2, 3, 4-5 / Mk 7:24-30 Gn 3:1-8 / Ps 32 / Ps 32:1-2, 5, 6, 7 / Mk 7:31-37 Gn 3:9-24 / Ps 90:2, 3-4abc, 5-6, 12-13/ Mk 8:1-10

Francis-Xavier Bianchi

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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anew — through his eyes — and to entrust themselves fully to his mission and preaching. We see the power of this challenge in the next scene of the Gospel, the call of Simon (Peter), Andrew, James, and John. In the statement that Jesus “passed by the Sea of Galilee” (Mk 1:16), St. Mark emphasizes Jesus’ glory by using the same verb used in the Old Testament to refer to God’s passing by a particular place (see, for example, 1 Kings 19:11 and Exodus 33:19,22). St. Mark implies that every glimpse of Jesus is somehow an epiphany, an instance of God’s glory shining forth.

When Jesus sees Simon and Andrew, he calls out to them, “Come after me . . .” (Mk 1:17). St. Mark then presents examples of their perfect human response to the call to discipleship. Upon hearing Jesus, both Simon and Andrew immediately left what they were doing, abandoned their fishing nets (implying they had no thought of turning back), and became Jesus’ followers. We should also consider how early on in his mission that Jesus calls these first disciples. Involving his adherents as co-workers in his mission was not an afterthought or “optional extra” for Jesus — it was a central part of his strategy. And, of course, we know that these zealous, first-called disciples did have subsequent moments when they failed Jesus. But, by focusing upon both the successes and failures of these followers, St. Mark begins to weave a theology of discipleship that involves more than a single, dramatic moment of conversion.

This Sunday’s Gospel is a perfect text to illustrate Pope Francis’ intention in establishing this Sunday of the Word of God. It reminds us that Jesus is revealed not only to those early disciples but also to each and every one of us. The Holy Father encourages us to remember that “the life of Jesus is the full and perfect expression of [his] divine love, which holds nothing back but offers itself to all without reserve” (Aperuit Illis, 13). This Gospel is meant to insert each of us into Jesus’ ongoing call to be his followers. May Pope Francis’ expressed promise that we are “sustained by the Lord, present in our midst, who speaks to us and nourishes us” move us “to develop a closer relationship with sacred Scripture,” and thus to “grow in our knowledge and love of the Scriptures and of the risen Lord” (Aperuit Illis, 13).

Msgr. Fell is a Scripture scholar and director of the diocesan Office for Priest Personnel and Seminarians

OUR FAITH

Third Sunday of Ordinary Time (B)

30 26 STEPPING FORWARD IN CHARITY STEPPING UP IN CHARITY

McAULEY Religious Gift Shop

STEPPING FORWARD

at Mount St. Mary's

Christian Gifts, Cards & Rosaries Catholic Medals • Books • Bibles Trappistine Candies

Connections Program offers role models for youth Facility provides life-saving services Children extend care to military veteran in

WE ACCEPT PAYMENT BY CASH OR PERSONAL CHECKS.

By Joanne Kleinle NO CREDIT CARDS. In Correspondent December, tests for COVID-19 or

(908) 754-3663 , ext. "0"

the coronavirus were given at Catho- Child Care When Catholic Charities’ lic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen’s “A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who Tues., Wed. & Thurs.: 10 am – 3pm UnitySite Supervisor Jenelle Clauson read Square, New Brunswick. fi nds one fi nds a treasure.”

(Sir 6:14) Friday: 10 am – 2 pm The tests, which were free of a The Facebook post about a 104-year-old Connections Program at Catholic Saturday: 9:30 am – 12 noon charge, were administered by the New Charities, Diocesespecial of Metuchen, Marine’s pleawhich foris Valentine’s Closed Sunday, Monday & Holidays Jersey Department of Health through supported by the Bishop's Annual Appeal, wishes, she gathered her colleagues City ofverse Newto Brunswick. this heart by connecting menRt. 22 & Terrill Road, Watchung, NJ 07069 thetakes atwithHatchery Elementary School, Coto,who acting executive ditorsJulio youth canHill use a friend.

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She looks forward to tholomew Parish, East Brunswick, where ageenvelopes to heremergency sons because she thought full food of hand-made Valentineboth English and Spanish. vulnerable, and all people in need and provided bags mento Covid-19 her time in with them and loves watching she serves as an extraordinary minister of toring would be a great way to engage her more than 1,000 unique households. and wishes to honor White and with families andSociety communiDriven by mature Catholic teachBe still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 owncards them grow to and into social teenagers.

They partners holy Communion and in its of St. boys.

She got much more than she Through the and generosity of Inties to improve the all quality of life. child support to Maj. White and we are reing, CCDOM provides quality services bring love joy to the retired Marine. often talk to her about their Vincent de Paul chapter, has been supervi-care for expected.

The boy became ternational American Supermarkets, with dignity and CCDOM also offers counseling or distric respect toofgives the poor, Prayer Request: and she them sor of theitConnections Program since 2000. school minded how important is to provide close to her family, “We arewhole so thrilled about the cases, response issues “In many help for someone impacted by addicwhatever guidance she Shewho sees thehave impactserved it has not only on the participating in traditions Somerset and recognition tocan.those _______________________________ we received from the we school It accepts insurance plans, Mentors must un- tion. the youth, but onmajor the mentors and families. put district,” the like her in-laws annual New For more our rigorous country.”

Medicaid andto Medicare. saidEveChild Care Service Area Director dergo screening including “The program is not meant replace the Year’s party, decorating _________________________ childhood back Fees forCharities, those without insurance are interview and background parents, but to give support,” she said.

“In Charities’ child Last year, Catholic DiotheKrista ChristmasGlynn. tree and go“The staff and children affordable and are the based on a sliding checks before they receive many cases, we put childhood back in ingwere on an annual Easter eggto send in the child’s ccdom.org/chil cese of Metuchen scale. provided affordable so excited their lovelifeand training For life information, CCDOM’s and continue to the child’s by offeringcall the fun activities hunt. She even took him on Center (800 655-9491. by offering the receive training after they Access and support thatathis or her family cannot college tours with her own see all of CCDOM’s services, giveTo them.” sons. They grew so close fun activities and begingTheserving. visit the website THE program sponsors Cullen treasureshttps://www.ccdom. witnessing the lifethat when he aged out of org/ monthly group activities — changing impact that the mentors have on support that their the program, she agreed to usually in person, but they the youth. She said one child, whose parents mentor his younger brothers families cannot have been held virtually be- were day laborers, came into the program and they now participate in Unity Square staff member Erio Rosario cause of the coronavirus — Perales; wanting to be a day laborer.

After spending McCrystal family traditions give them.”

Healthier Middlesex Consorfor mentors and the youth. time with his mentor, he realized other and posjust like their brother did. tium Coordinator, Robert LaForgia, —Jeanette Cullen Through these trainings and Unity sibilities that were open to him.

He started Most of the activities Square staff member Hector Peractivities, McCrystal has ez to assist plan toin gothe to college and become a busithat she does with the boys distribution of coronanessman He also changed his are simple. Because of the recent lockdown also formed close friendships with other virus careand kitstravel. provided

by Saint Peter’s mentors. diet to more healthy choices. related to the coronavirus, she takes them for University Hospital, New Brunswick.

Case managers are in touch with men- The Healthier For information about Consortium becoming a a walk or buys them ice cream. They also Middlesex Jeanette Cullen share her love of biking and hiking. Some- tors two to five times each month and are ismentor, basedcontact in Saint Peter’s andatisjcullen@ jointly ccdom.org (732) 738-1323. times they want to visit at her house and play available day or night by phone if they need funded byorSaint Peter’s and Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital.

JANUARY 21, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT AUGUST 20, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Our Lady of Tenderness

“Come follow me” 10:21) atholic Spirit C(Mark

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

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Why the moral breakdown in the United States of America and throughout the Western world? Some say it is related to the lack of prayer in our public schools or the misdirected insistence that a morality based on religion has no place in the schools or the public square, especially in a country that proclaims the separation of church and state. In the past, there have been several attempts to restore the Ten Commandments in our public schools and in the public square. Strangely, the same Supreme Court that uses the Ten Commandments as the basis of law, weighed in on this back in 1980, ruling that the Ten Commandments cannot be displayed in public schools because to do so would show support of religion by the government.

Although the Ten Commandments were originally given in a Jewish context, they have been accepted fully into Christ’s teaching. Recall the Gospel story of the Rich Young Man when Jesus tells him to sell everything and give his money to the poor. Before that, Jesus lists the Commandments and then says: “If you would enter life, keep the Commandments” (Mt 19:17). He later explains that all the Commandments are summed up as follows: “You shall love your neighbor as yourself” (Mt 22:39). The Catechism comments: “Love does no wrong to a neighbor; therefore love is the fulfilling of the law” (ccc 2055).

In the Gospel passage, when Jesus is asked, “Which Commandment in the Law is the greatest?” (Mt 22:36), Jesus replies by quoting from two books of the Old Testament, the Books of Deuteronomy 6:5 and Leviticus 19:18 – “You shall love the Lord your God with all your heart, and with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first Com-

mandment. And a second is like it: You full meaning within the covenant. AcWhat is our response to all of this? shall love your neighbor as yourself. On cording to Sacred Scripture, our moral According to the Catechism, “moral exthese two Commandments hang all the life has all of its meaning in and through istence is a response to the Lord’s loving Law and the prophets” (Mt 22:37-40). the covenant. Therefore, the first of the initiative” (ccc 2062). The Church forThe Catechism explains: “The Decalogue “ten words” recalls that God loved his mally responds through councils like the [the Ten Commandments] people first (ccc 2061). Council of Trent “that the Ten Commandmust be interpreted in In fact, when we read the ments are obligatory for [us] Christians” We see in the use Catechism further, we dis- (ccc 2068). light of this twofold yet single commandment of Another point of interest is the order of words how the cover that “the covenant love, the fullness of the and dialogue between of the Commandments. Depending on Commandments are God and humanity are the version of Sacred Scripture we use, Law” (ccc 2055).

What is the Decaattested to by the fact the order or numbering of the Commanddirected to individu- also logue? According to the that all the obligations are ments is different. In fact, the numbering Catechism, “The word als, as well as to the stated in the first person has varied throughout history. “The pres‘Decalogue’ means liter(‘I am the Lord’) and ad- ent catechism follows the division of the ally ‘ten words.’ God entire people of God dressed by God to another Commandments established by St. Aurevealed these 10 words as a group. They are personal subject (‘you’)” gustine, which has become traditional in to his people on the holy (ccc 2063). We see in the Catholic Church” (ccc 2066). mountain...but it is in meant to offer sup- the use of words how The final few paragraphs call our atthe New Covenant in the Commandments are tention the fact that “from the beginning, port to individuals directed to individuals, as God hadtoimplanted Jesus Christ that their in the heart of man the full meaning will be rebecoming friends well as to the entire people precepts of the natural law. Then he was vealed” (ccc 2056). The of God as a group. They content to remind him of them. This was of God and living are meant to offer support the Decalogue (or Ten Commandments” next paragraph continues: “The Decalogue must first in greater harmony to individuals becoming (ccc 2070). All 10 are succinctly sumbe understood in the confriends of God and liv- marized in the one Commandment Jesus text of the Exodus, God’s with their neighbors. ing in greater harmony gives which is also quoted in this final great liberating event at with their neighbors. The paragraph (ccc 2074): “This is my comthe center of the Old Covsecond century bishop, mandment, that you love one another as I enant” (ccc 2057). Ten paragraphs later St. Irenaeus, quoted in the Catechism, have loved you” (Jn 15:12). we are told: “The Ten Commandments observes: “Far from being abolished, they Father Hillier is director of the diocstate what is required in the love of God have received amplification and develop- esan Office of the Pontifical Missions, Ofand love of neighbor. The first three con- ment from the fact of the coming of the fice of Persons with Disabilities, Censor cern love of God, and the other seven love Lord in the flesh” (ccc 2063).

Luborum of neighbor” (ccc 2067).

We often forget that the Ten Commandments (sometimes referred to as the “ten words”) are “the gift of God himself and his holy will. In making his will known, God reveals himself to his people” (ccc 2059). This helps us understand the proper context or disposition necessary for us to receive this “gift Assisted Living Memory Care Rehabilitation of God himself.” It is not just a matter of reading the Ten Commandments or memorizing them. Rather, we are to embrace them as “the gift of God” because they “are pronounced by God in the midst of a theophany” (ccc 2059). This is a new word for some. “Theophany” in theology refers to “a visible manifestation of God to humanity.” In the case of the Ten ComSkilled Nursing Respite Care mandments, we are told in Sacred ScripBridgeway ture that “the Lord spoke face to face at Bridgewater Rated #1 the mountain” where the Commandments Nursing Home in New Jersey were received (Dt 5:4).

The Commandments take on their

FAITH ALIVE

Article 146 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 2052-2074

31

Embrace Ten Commandments as ‘the gift of God’

32 OUR DIOCESE

OBITUARY Lorraine M. Mascher, an employee at Allied Security who worked for many years at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway, died Dec. 12 at JFK Haven Hospice, Edison. She was 65.

She was born in New York, raised in the Colonia section of Woodbridge Township and raised her family in

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

anna Mascher; son-in-law, Cory Travers; siblings including her twin, Eileen Ligouri of Colonia, Barbara Ligouri of Colonia, Jack Ligouri and his wife, Sue, of Florida, Larry Ligouri and his wife, Sandy, of Florida, and Kevin Ligouri and his wife, Lynn, of Avenel; and many loving nieces, nephews,

cousins and friends.

Funeral services are private under the direction of Costello-Greiner Funeral Home, Woodbridge.

In lieu of flowers please consider a donation to your favorite charity or perform a random act of kindness in Lorraine's memory.

Blue Army Shrine joins Church in honoring St. Joseph Father Donald Calloway, an author and convert to Catholicism, is scheduled to be the keynote virtual speaker Feb. 6, 11 a.m., for The World Apostolate of Fatima USA, Asbury, which has dedicated 2021 as “Year of St. Joseph” under the title, “The greatest consoler of the Immaculate Heart.”

With his Apostolic Letter “Patris corde” (“With a Father’s Heart”), Pope Francis marked the occasion of the 150th anniversary of St. Joseph as Patron of the Universal Church, by proclaiming a “Year of Saint Joseph”

JANUARY 21, 2021

Fords before moving back to Colonia 4½ years ago.

She was predeceased by her daughter, Kimberly Travers, in 2018; and parents, John and Catherine Ligouri.

Surviving are her daughter, Catherine Mascher; grandchildren, Gianna Travers, Madison Travers and Aryi-

for the entire Church, Dec. 8, 2020, to Dec. 8, 2021.

Father Calloway is a member of the Congregation of Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception. He was oradined to the priesthood May 31, 2003, at The National Shrine of The Divine Mercy, Stockbridge, Mass. His livestreamed presentation, which can be seen at www.bluearmy.com, is the second of a new series of “First Saturday” talks concerning this devotion by keynote speakers from the Blue Army Shrine, and continue on the first Sat-

urday of each month throughout the year.

Activities and events after the presentation are: 11:30 a.m., rosary with 15-minute meditation; 12:15 p.m., Mass.

The day concludes with Divine Mercy Chaplet and Brown Scapular enrollment.

For information, call (908) 6891700, extension 210, or visit the website www.bluearmy.com.

Father Donald Calloway

One day, God called a man named Jonah to be his prophet.

“Set out for the great city of Nineveh, and preach against it; for their wickedness has come before me,” God said.

Instead, Jonah tried to flee from God. He decided to board a ship bound for Tarshish.

God caused a great wind to come upon the sea, causing a storm so great that the ship was in danger of breaking up.

“Come, let us cast lots to discover on whose account this evil has come to us,” the terrified sailors decided.

The lot fell on Jonah.

Jonah explained to the sailors that

he was a Hebrew who was fleeing from God. He also suggested that he be thrown overboard to calm the sea.

The sailors did what Jonah suggested, and the sea stopped raging.

God sent a great fish to swallow Jonah, and he remained in the fish’s belly for three days and nights.

After Jonah prayed to God, God caused the fish to expel Jonah onto dry land.

Then, for the second time, God called Jonah to be his prophet.

“Set out for the great city of Nineveh, and announce to it the message that I will tell you,” God said.

Jonah traveled to Nineveh. The city was so big that it took him three days to walk through it.

As he walked, Jonah announced God’s message.

“Forty days more and Nineveh shall be destroyed,” he said.

The people of Nineveh believed God’s message. They declared a fast and put on sackcloth to show repentance.

When the king heard God’s message, he too put on sackcloth, and he also sat in ashes to show his repentance.

“By decree of the king and his nobles, no man or beast, no cattle or sheep, shall taste anything; they shall not

eat, nor shall they drink water,” the king declared.

“Man and beast alike must be covered with sackcloth and call loudly to God; they all must turn from their evil way and from the violence of their hands.

Who knows? God may again repent and turn from his blazing wrath, so that we will not perish.”

When God saw Nineveh’s repentance, he did not destroy the city.

OUR DIOCESE

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service

33

Kids Corner: God tells Jonah to preach against Nineveh

Read more about it: Jonah 3 Q&A 1. Whom did God call to be his prophet?

2. Where did God want Jonah to go?

TRIVIA: How did Jonah feel about God sparing Nineveh? (Hint: Jonah 4:1) PUZZLE: Using the hints provided, put a T next to the sentences from the Book of Jonah that are true and an F next to the ones that are false. If a sentence is false, put the correct answer on the line provided.

1. ___ Jonah was the son of Job. ______ (1:1)

2. ___ Jonah boarded a ship in Joppa. ______ (1:3)

3. ___ A palm tree gave Jonah shade. ______ (4:6)

4. ___ Jonah built a hut outside of Nineveh. ______ (4:5)

Puzzle Answers: 1. F (Amittai); 2. T; 3. F (gourd plant); 4.

TTrivia Answer: He felt displeased and angry.

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Retreats for lay men, women, priests, religious; days/evenings of prayer. Groups planning their own programs are welcome.

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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

JANUARY 21, 2021

MOUNT ST. MARY HOUSE OF PRAYER 1651 U.S. Highway 22, Watchung, NJ 07069

ST. FRANCIS CENTER FOR RENEWAL, INC. 395 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem PA 18017

VILLA PAULINE RETREAT AND SPIRITUAL CENTER 352 Bernardsville Road, Mendham, NJ 07945

THE SHRINE OF ST. JOSEPH 1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling, NJ 07980

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

LOYOLA JESUIT CENTER 161 James St. • Morristown, NJ 07960 973-539-0740 • Fax: 973-898-9839

A Redemptorist Spiritual Center overlooking the Atlantic Ocean offering preached retreats, days of prayer and use of the facility for outside groups.

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

OUR DIOCESE

34

Crossword Puzzle 1

2

3

4

8

9

10

11

13

5

6

12

14

15

17

18

7

19

16

20

21 22

27

23

24

28

26

29

31 33

25

30

32 34

JANUARY 21, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

ACROSS 2 Son of Sarah 6 Diocese opening 8 Celestial body used in dating Easter 9 Chief minister of the Persian king in the Book of Esther 10 Time of preparation for the coming of Christ 11 Religious ceremonies 13 Archdiocese in Queensland Australia 15 Epistle 17 ___ Sacrament 19 Son of Abraham 22 Biblical occupation 24 Characteristic of God 27 The Apostle James’s father 29 Nihil ___ 31 Peter or Paul, for example 32 OT book in which you will find 9A 33 Marriage vows 34 “…thy will be done on ___” DOWN 1 The New Jerusalem in Revelation was made of this 2 Perfumes the altar 3 Patron saint of jewelers 4 Jewish month of Hanukkah

5 According to Tobit, the gates of Jerusalem will be built with sapphires and these precious stones 6 Mark with oil 7 “___ let us adore him…”

10 Tunic-like vestment 12 OT wisdom book 14 Saint item 16 Movie reviewer/film critic who was a former altar boy 18 Explanation or interpretation of Scripture 20 Elder son of Joseph 21 Adjective for Esau 22 The ___ of Galilee 23 Most likely, Paul’s first epistle (abbr.)

25 St. Therese, the Little ___ 26 “When we ___ this bread…”

28 “…and ___ us not into temptation…”

30 Bible book about the early Christians

Answers can be found on page 35

2/2

Feast of the Presentation of the Lord and World Day of Consecrated Life celebrated.

2/4–7

Second SEEK21 to be hosted in a few locations in the diocese. SEEK21 a virtual conference hosted by FOCUS (Fellowship of Catholic University Students) and is an opportunity to gather in small groups and encounter the beauty of the Faith, the truth of the Church, and the joy, hope, and love of Christ.

2/6

World Day of Consecrated Life observed at parishes. For more information contact: Sister Anna Nguyn, Delegate for Religious at: religious@diometuchen.org or anguyn@diometuchen.org

2/16

RCIA virtual workshop on Purification and Enlightenment Rites During A Pandemic, 7:00-8:30 pm. To register contact: ssharlow@diometuchen.org or kbattle@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 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 A Women’s Group will meet virtually each Sunday at 2:30 p.m. At their first meeting, held Jan. 10. the group began a Consecration to Mary which will be made on Feb. 11., the feast day of Our Lady of Lourdes.

The group’s meetings will continue with a Lenten theme. For more information contact: Cristina D’AversoCollins at cdaverso@diometuchen.org.

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.

PLEASE PRAY FOR

Vocations

HOME OR CONDO WANTED As-is condition. Polish Catholic couple. Quick closing.

Call AJ: (732) 770-2024.

SELLING YOUR HOME? Call George Pantozzi, Broker/Sales Associate, Berkshire Hathaway NJ Properties for a complimentary market analysis. I also buy homes.

Cell: 908.392.2677; Office: 908.874.3400 ext 324.

HELP WANTED

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NEED PRO - LIFE HOUSEMOTHERS SHIFTS AVAILABLE - 7-3:30, 3-11:30, 11-7 Several Sources Shelters, a non-profit nonsectarian shelter for pregnant women is seeking kind, compassionate individuals, willing to serve God through those we help.

Drivers License required Reply to : Susan Harper - Lloyd, Email: susanharperlloyd@aol.com Or call: 201-819-4699 (M-F 9-5)

“Come, Follow me.”

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WINDOWS & DOORS Installation of Fiberglass screens for your doors and windows. Pick-up and drop off services available. George & Sons: (908) 392-2677

(Mark 10:21)

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

If you think maybe . . . contact the Office of Vocations:

(732) 562-2453

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Crossword Puzzle Answers: G I S M O O N L C A D V E N L N B R I S B E E B L E S S I S C R I B T E A L P H A E E A S A I D O S

A A C E G H A M A A I E T S E R V H L A A N E L E V D E D I S H X H E I N F I G R L E U S O B S U W I N T E S E A R T

A R C H N O O M I C E S N I T T E R B M A E L A R N I T E A A S T A T S C E S T H H S

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 21, 2021

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

REAL ESTATE

RATES

FEBRUARY 2/2 RCIA and WORSHIP virtual workshop on Parish Rite of Election, 7:00-8:30 pm. To register contact: ssharlow@diometuchen.org or kbattle@diometuchen.org

For information call: (732 )529-7934 • Fax: (732) 562-0969

OUR DIOCESE

JANUARY 1/26 St.Timothy and St.Theresa of Calcutta Awards to be presented virtually.The ceremony will premiere live on the diocesan Facebook and YouTube pages at 7 pm. The awards honor Juniors and Seniors in high school who model faith and service in their local communities throughout the diocese. For more information contact Megan Vantslot, director, diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry at mvantslot@diometuchen.org.

35

DIOCESAN EVENTS

CLASSIFIED

36 OUR DIOCESE

In Case you missed us...

If you missed any of our 2020 Issues, they are available online www.catholicspirit.com/e-edition

February is Catholic Press Month

While the Catholic Spirit nourishes your faith throughout the year, during February, Catholic Press Month, we ask for your ďŹ nancial support so we can continue our ministry.

JANUARY 21, 2021

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Please mail your donation to: The Catholic Spirit, P.O. Box 191 Metuchen, New Jersey 08840-0191