January 9, 2020

St. Mary-Stony Hill Parish, Watchung, welcomes newly installed pastor, pages 6, 7

Spirit atholic C THE

JANUARY 9, 2020 • VOL. 24 NO. 23 • $2.00

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

Bishop James F. Checchio blesses the manger with holy water at the vigil Mass on Christmas Eve at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. Altar servers Jonathan Castano and his brother, Sam, and Connor Spinelli assist.

— Mike Ehrmann photo

INSIDE Perspectives Our Faith

Christmas Tradition

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Around the Diocese

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Classifieds

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Diocesan Events

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Catholics of Filipino descent worship at annual liturgy. . . 3 This issue was mailed on January 7 Your next issue will be January 23

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May others come to know Jesus, His peace through us

JANUARY 9, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

UP FRONT

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

learning to live in the world as He did many, many years ago. That’s what the Magi were doing, searching for God and His peace in their lives, striving to honor Him and learn from Him, as they turned over their gifts and themselves to Him. It is in our accepting the Christ child and learning to live in His way that our world is made a On the Solemnity of the Epiph- clearer reflection of Him, and peace any, I started a week retreat together will come to us not only now, but forwith the bishops of New Jersey and ever.

Pennsylvania. Be assured that I am We have so many things that dispraying for you during my retreat, but turb our peace, just watching the news I also ask that you pray for me, too. over these past weeks with the attacks The Epiphany was a great day to begin on our Jewish brothers and sisters so a retreat, a longer nearby us, and the period of intense disturbances and Most recently, prayer. violence going on Christmas rein the Middle East. we were blessed minded us to open In our own personal through our conour hearts more lives, we have things fully to Christ. To that disturb our secration to Jesus accept His precious peace, too, illnesses gift, God Himself, and the deaths of through Our Lady coming to share in loved ones, addicof Guadalupe; she our humanity, so tions, all types of that we can share abuses, problems at is tethered to us in His divinity. It is work or school, reand will not let by our living like lationship problems, Christ, but also sharthe list can go on and us down as she ing Him with others on. It is no wonder that we encounter that so many, from continues to bring and live with each our youth to our elJesus to us, so we day that they can derly, are searching receive the great gift for peace. can share Him with of peace which only Let us resolve all we encounter.

He can give and help that our celebration our world become of Christmas and the way God desires Epiphany this year, it to be. our recalling of the birth of Christ Our God comes to us at Christ- into our world, will not only open our mas as a baby, wrapped in swaddling hearts more fully to God, the King clothes, calling us out of ourselves as of Love, but that it will also make us only babies and children can do. Each more and more willing to love as He year, the nativity scene calls us to pon- did, even in a world where Christiander the Law of the Gift written on the ity is becoming rare. human heart by the God who is Love.

May others come to know Jesus As Christmas is about God’s and His peace through us, my brothers search for us, the Epiphany is a time and sisters in Christ! We are His disto look at our response to Him, our ciples in the Diocese of Metuchen. He

Bishop James Checchio

Catholic Spirit THE

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chooses to need us to make Himself known, what an honor, privilege and responsibility. If not us, then who will do this here and now?

As we share the love and peace of the Christ Child, remember we are not alone. We are blessed by the Virgin Mary’s “yes” to God to become the Mother of God as she brought Him into the world and our lives. Most recently, we were blessed through our consecration to Jesus through Our Lady of Guadalupe; she is tethered to us and will not let us down as she continues to bring Jesus to us, so we can share Him with all we encounter. Yes, you and I are Jesus’ disciples today and each day, and He desires to be with us even now and until we rest in heavenly peace with Him, always.

These are my thoughts and prayers as I begin my retreat, for me personally, but also for our beautiful diocese, each of you. I will continue to pray intensely as we journey into the coming year sharing the love of Christ through our lives and inviting are brothers and

sisters who have fallen away from the practice of the faith to return.

Soon we will be sharing with you how each one of us can take one step forward in our renewed faith as individuals and a diocese and also hopefully bring souls to Christ as St. Juan Diego did so many years ago.

In the days ahead, I pray that you will embrace and live the consecration we have taken. I ask you, too, to pray for me on my retreat, that I may more fully open myself to receive Christ so that I can be the Catholic Christian and shepherd that God is calling me to be. May we all take one step closer to Our Lord in 2020, so that it will be a year of Grace for us all! Know of my love and prayers for you and God bless you all.

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

The Bishop’s Schedule

Jan. 15 Jan. 16 Jan. 16 Jan. 17 Jan. 18 Jan. 18 Jan. 19 Jan. 19 Jan. 22 Jan. 23 Jan. 24 Jan. 24 Jan. 25 Jan. 26 Jan. 26

Jan. 6-11 New Jersey and Pennsylvania Bishops’Retreat – private event Jan. 12 8 a.m. Mass at St. Joseph Church, High Bridge Jan. 12 10:30 a.m. Mass at St. Jude Church, Blairstown Jan. 15 10:30 a.m. College of Consultors – private event 1 p.m. Bishop’s Annual Appeal Organizational Meeting for Parish Ambassadors at Saint John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway 10:30 a.m. Priest Personnel Meeting – private event 3:30 p.m. Finance Council Meeting – private event 5 p.m. Confirmation at Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen 10:30 a.m. Confirmation at Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen 5 p.m. Mass at St. Ambrose Church, Old Bridge 10:30 a.m. Mass at St. Helena Church, Edison noon Respect Life Mass and Pro-Vita Awards at Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen 7 p.m. Evening Prayer and Recognition Reception for Bishop’s Annual Appeal, Piscataway – private event 5:30 p.m. Opening Mass of the National Prayer Vigil for Life at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception, Washington, DC 8:30 a.m. Mass for Life and Youth Rally at Capital One Arena, Washington, DC 11 a.m. March for Life, Washington, DC 5 p.m. Mass for Rite of Candidacy of Diaconate Formation Class at St. Matthew the Apostle Church, Edison 10 a.m. Mass at St. Mary Church, South Amboy noon Mass at Sacred Heart Church, South Amboy

For updates on Bishop Checchio's schedule visit: http://diometuchen.org/bishop/schedule

P R AY F O R

Vocations

of the

SPECIAL FEATURE

can it be found?

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Image k e e W Where in the diocese

Apostolate celebrates traditional nine-day novena

By Christina Leslie Correspondent METUCHEN – With a worshipful mix of prayer, song, veneration and reverent pageantry, Catholics of Filipino descent honored the Virgin Mary Dec. 15 during the opening Mass of a nine-day novena known as Simbang Gabi.

During the family-centered, heritagerich celebration, Msgr. Robert J. Zamorski, rector who presided at the Mass, urged the congregation to heed the theme of the Third Sunday of Advent: Rejoice!

Simbang Gabi, Filipino for “night Mass,” was introduced by Spanish evan-

The image, which was featured on page 3 of the November 28 issue of The Catholic Spirit, can be found at St. Mary parish, South Amboy.

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Parishioners from St. Anthony of Port Reading carry a banner in the procession at the beginning of the Simbang Gabi Mass.

gelists to the Philippines in the 17th cen- Catholics of Filipino ancestry carry parols tury. Traditionally, faithful arrive at Mass and lanterns in the sanctuary of the before daybreak on each of the nine days cathedral and pose for a picture with the before Christmas, then set off to work in rector, Msgr. Robert Zamorski and Father the fields. Adoration of the Blessed Virgin Gerardo Paderon, diocesan coordinator is abundant during Simbang Gabi, com- of the Filipino apostolate.

— John Batkowski photos plete with a Nativity play and processions of faithful bearing gifts.

“Just six years and three months ago, The diocesan Filipino Apostolate has we enshrined a statue of St. Lorenzo Ruiz widened the scope of the annual celebrain our chapel,” said the monsignor. “[He] tion. This Advent, a total of 26 parishes in and John the Baptist had a lot in common: the diocese sponsored Masses in the Filithey were both prisoners, they gave up their pino tradition, beginning with the Cathelives for others and had many followers.” dral on Dec. 15 and concluding Dec. 23 at He continued, “The Lord speaks to St. John Vianney Church, Colonia, where your holiness.

You are the witnesses to Bishop James F. Checchio presided.

Christ in the modern-day The Filipino Apostoworld… We must declare late Festival Choir lifted imperatively that Christ is their voices in traditional the One. Since you underSimbang Tagalog Christmas songs as stand that, you rejoice and faithful processed into the Gabi, Filipino give witness.”

Cathedral bearing banners Msgr. Zamorski noted for "night and parols, or star-shaped that Filipinos worldwide lanterns meant to represent Mass, " was were preparing for the 500th the Star of Bethlehem. anniversary of Catholicism’s introduced Msgr. Zamorski was acarrival to that island nation companied by numerous two years hence, and conby Spanish Filipino priests, deacons cluded, “We are in the proand acolytes into the sancevangelists cession to heaven, walking tuary. forward with the strength of to the PhilipIn his homily, Msgr. the martyrs, as we begin the Zamorski reminded the aspines in the great procession of Simbang sembled that this first night Gabi… You have the spiri17th century. of Simbang Gabi coincided tual fortitude to stand up for with the third Sunday of the Messiah. I hope you will Advent, known as Gaudete, make it your personal manor rejoice, Sunday. There tra to ‘Gaudete.’” were many parallels beFather Gerardo Padtween John the Baptist and San Lorenzo eron, administrator, Queenship of Mary Ruiz, canonized by St. Pope John Paul II Parish, Plainsboro, and diocesan coordinaas the first Filipino saint, he said, and both tor of the Filipino apostolate, explained the were a reason for all Catholics to rejoice at Simbang Gabi celebrations Christ’s coming.

4 OUR DIOCESE

One baptism, two popes and three ways to evangelize Body & Soul

By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD Did you ever wonder: “Why did Jesus ask to be baptized?” After all, the Church teaches that Christ shared in our humanity in all ways but sin. So, if Jesus was without sin, why would he ask for something that he really did not need?

Well, in his first book written as pontiff, entitled “Jesus of Nazareth,” Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI answers this question succinctly. Jesus’ baptism anticipates his death on the cross. As our Lord asked for baptism, he willingly took on the sins of the world and, later, he would vicariously atone for those sins on Mt. Calvary. At the same time, argues the Holy Father, the heavenly voice that is heard after Jesus’ baptism, anticipates his resurrection. Just as the Eucharist is also the sacrifice of Calvary in the sign order, and is offered in a non-bloody manner, so the Baptism of the Lord is, in the sign order, an enacted prophecy of what is to come in the life of Jesus of Nazareth.

Jesus asks to be baptized in order to

identify himself with us fully. The Bap- silver pectoral cross. He does not travel tism of the Lord both recapitulates and on land by limousine but by a modest car. recreates all of history; it encapsulates He flies on commercial airlines, not in his the past and anticipates the future. own jet. The Holy Father does not inhabit Pope Emeritus Benedict has given the papal palace but chooses to dwell in great insight into the a two-room suite at the feast which we celebrate Albergo Santa Marta. He We must not eats with others and not this Sunday. There’s only one problem to a purely by himself, as had popes only shed before him did. Like theological approach the habit of — it can be a little too other Popes of our times, cerebral, and therefore, Francis reminds us all, dormant faith, clergy and laity, that bapit must contain a pastoral component, that is, a tism, which frees us from we must also practical application to sin and gives us new life share the in the Spirit, is the beginwhich people can relate.

So, here’s the part you’ve ning of our faith journey, graces received all been waiting for! not its end. and become If the Baptism of the Pope Francis has also voiced his concern Lord is ultimately about missionary redemption, then it folfor the many baptized lows that this feast calls Christians “whose lives disciples. us to embrace anew our do not reflect the demission as co-redeemers, mands of baptism, who and sometimes to fulfill this role requires lack a meaningful relationship to the fortitude, perseverance, prudence and Church and no longer experience the consolation born of faith.” Part of our courage.

We have as a model, Benedict’s suc- mission, then, is to help such people to cessor, Pope Francis. Just look what he “experience a conversion, which will rehas done in the almost eight years since store the joy of faith to their hearts and he was elevated to the papacy. He choos- inspire a commitment to the Gospel.” es to dress simply — to wear a simple (“Evangelii Gaudium,” 15) A major step

toward this end took place when, following a year of spiritual renewal and awakening among the 630,000 souls who make up his flock, Bishop James F. Checchio consecrated the Diocese of Metuchen to Jesus through Our Lady of Guadalupe [dubbed by St. John Paul II as the “Star of the New Evangelization”] in December.

The next logical step would be the application of the consecration. One way is to visit with those who have strayed from the Church and invite them back.

Another way to evangelize is through prayer. We should ask Jesus that those whose faith is tepid will rediscover their relationship with God through freedom and love. Finally, nothing says “Good News” like faith lived out in charity, that is, in service to others. Yes, the lives renewed through Our Lady of Guadalupe’s intercession will certainly bear fruit. This is what it means to take the New Evangelization to the next step. We must not only shed the habit of dormant faith, we must also share the graces received and become missionary disciples. How much our world yearns for this proof of basic, human goodness, especially as we embrace this new year.

Father Comandini is managing editor of “The Catholic Spirit.”

A reminder that life at all stages, conditions, is precious As each year comes to a close, I like to do some reflection, taking time and making space to look back and appreciate experiences, good and bad, and learn from them.

Hitting the rewind button and looking back at 2019, I, personally, have had moments of profound joy as well as times of deep sadness.

Thoughts On Life

JANUARY 9, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

By Jennifer Ruggiero My joy comes as I marvel at the continuing development of my three grandchildren as their lives take shape before my eyes. While the two youngest garnered “toddler” status by taking their first steps this year, my oldest, who proudly proclaims he’s a “big boy” (at 3 1/2 years old), has discovered a new way to express himself. Using “his words,” his

How to report abuse

big personality and sharp mind continuously spill out for all to see.

My sadness comes as I sit with and care for my dad whose health has continued to decline over this year — his body wracked from Parkinson’s Disease, his mind clouded and his words few and far between. Once in a while he gives me half a smile.

Over the past year, while my grandchildren have gotten to know me as their Nana, my dad, now in hospice care, barely interacts, sometimes leaving me to wonder if he even remembers my name.

As I witness the circle of life cycling before me, I think about what life was like years ago when I was a little girl and I wonder, as I grow older, what the days ahead will bring. I am reminded that all life, at all stages and in all conditions, is precious and that God has a plan that He reveals in His time.

On the wider screen, over this past year, our nation has continued to witness the battle between a culture of life and a culture of death waging before us. There

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 law enforcement and/or by contacting 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/report-a-suspected-abuse.

has been both good and bad news, bringing joy and sadness.

• The latest statistical survey by the Centers for Disease Control shows that the abortion rate in America fell to the lowest rate since the U.S. Supreme Court legalized abortion on demand in 1973.

• It could be said that 2019 is the year of the Heartbeat Bill. Several states, including Georgia, Ohio and Kentucky, passed a bill that would make it illegal to abort a child after the preborn heartbeat is detected, which is around the sixth week of pregnancy. Sadly, the Heartbeat Bills have been held up in the courts or overturned in legal challenges while progressive states such as New York and Illinois passed laws allowing abortion up until a baby is born.

• Earlier this year, the Department of Health and Human Services released new rules stating that Title X funds could not go to any clinic that performs or refers women for abortions. Planned Parenthood refused to comply with these new regulations and lost $60 million in federal funding. Unfortunately, Gov. Phil Murphy just signed into law a measure that dedicates $9.5 million in New Jersey state funds to go to family-planning clinics such as Planned Parenthood to make up for the federal funding they forfeited.

• Over the course of 2019, people from across New Jersey sent more than 140,000 postcards to state legislators, urg-

ing them to support the Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act, which would ban abortion past 20 weeks gestation in our state. Sadly, this outcry for action to protect babies in the womb went largely unanswered.

• In August of 2019, New Jersey became one of eight states to allow what is called medically assisted suicide allowing New Jersey doctors to prescribe lethal medication to patients with less than six months to live. The law passed after almost eight years of opposition.

Laws are meant to be guidelines for what is acceptable is society. Many will tabulate this year’s pro-life vs. pro-choice wins and losses. The bottom line: today, as we enter into yet another new year, our nation’s laws continue to make it possible for a baby to be unsafe in his or her mother’s womb and for a frail elderly or dying patient to be lured into a more efficient death. How is this acceptable?

As faithful citizens, we must never stop working to promote pro-life laws but, more importantly, we must focus on softening hearts and changing minds of those we encounter every day for a better year-end review of 2020.

My New Year’s resolution: Be more grateful for all those in my life, cherish my grandchildren dearly and be more present to my dad for as long as God keeps him here.

Ruggiero is secretary, diocesan Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life

Betty Koscinski of Notre Dame Church in Hermitage, Pa., center, poses with her husband, Karol, second from right, and their children John Paul, Carley, Karen, Joe, Annie and Julie. Their son Joe committed suicide at age 41 in 2016.

Mental illness had plagued him since college, and Betty Koscinski spends much of the year shedding light on mental illness and suicide.

— CNS photo/courtesy Betty Koscinski

ERIE, Pa. — Three years ago, Betty Koscinski, 75, lost her son to suicide.

She now spends most of her time and energy spreading hope and educating others about mental illness. “Not many people at my age start out on a new path,” said Koscinski, a member of Notre Dame Parish in Hermitage, Pennsylvania. Before her son Joe’s death in 2016 at age 41, she already had been working for 10 years as a behavioral specialist consultant, a mobile therapist and a program integrity consultant. She gave presentations on stress management, eating disorders,

depression and suicide prevention.

Earlier, she taught theology and physical education for 19 years at Kennedy Catholic High School in Hermitage.

Nothing in her professional background prepared her for the shock of losing her own son. But it did, however, provide the resources and skills necessary to begin sharing her grief journey in new ways, including by developing a 90-minute seminar about suicide titled “Stop the Stigma.”

Koscinski also is a speaker for Crisis Intervention Team training for law enforcement.

Aid agencies in Brazil help Venezuelan refugees

WORLD & NATION

Mom who lost son to suicide leads seminars

Compiled from the Catholic News Service

5

WORLD & NATION

SALVADOR, Brazil — While reports indicate that the migration of Venezuelan refugees into Brazil and Colombia has eased since the first half of 2019, aid workers in border communities said the influx of people has not slowed appreciably.

“Approximately 500 Venezuelans cross the border on a daily basis,” said Heli Mansur, who oversees six shelters in Brazil’s northern Roraima state for AVSI, an international aid and development agency.

Mansur has determined that the situation at the border is deteriorating. “The stronger (refugees) came first, in 2018 and at the beginning of the year. Now we are seeing more desperate, more vulnerable Venezuelans crossing, with little money and debilitating health,” Mansur said.

AVSI Brasil, part of Italy-based AVSI Foundation, and organizations linked to the Catholic Church, including Caritas Brazil and the Diocese of Roraima, have tried to make the lives of those crossing the border easier by supplying shelter, food and blankets. Since July 2018, AVSI and UNCHR, the United Nations refugee agency, have worked in the border towns

Venezuelan refugee Keiniel Ramos, 7, poses with AVSI shelter manager Lucas Matos in Boa Vista, Brazil. About 500 Venezuelans cross into northern Brazil daily, reports AVSI Brasil, an international aid and development agency.

— CNS photo/Roberta Alves, courtesy AVSI

of Pacaraima and Boa Vista, Roraima’s state capital.

Nativity sets keep Christ in Christmas year-round

Pope: “Prayers of the old are powerful indeed”

Shirley Squires of Guilford, Vt., stands near a cabinet that holds only a fraction of her Nativity set collection Oct. 23, 2019. Squires, a parishioner of St. Michael Church in Brattleboro, has collected more than 1,500 Nativity sets.

— CNS photo/Cori Fugere Urban, Vermont Catholic

Pope Francis greets an elderly woman as he meets with people of the Banado Norte neighborhood in Asuncion, Paraguay, in this July 12, 2015, file photo. On Dec. 16, 2019, the eve of his 83rd birthday, Pope Francis met with a group of his peers, although many were a few years younger, and told them that “old age is a time of grace.”

— CNS photo/Paul Haring

on the faith; he calls us to pray, especially to intercede; he calls us to be alongside those who are in need.”

GUILFORD, Vt. — Christmas comes early to Shirley Squires’ Guilford home.

Actually, it never quiet leaves her home if the scores of Nativity sets she leaves on display year-round count as keeping Christ in Christmas 365 days a year.

Squires, a parishioner of St. Michael Church in Brattleboro, has collected more than 1,500 Nativity sets, and though she leaves many on display in hutches and in one bay of her detached garage, come August she begins setting up the others throughout her white clapboard home. “It used to be a two-bedroom,” she said with a smile, explaining that those second-floor rooms are now the permanent home of part of her collection; one room holds a Nativity set of

more than 200 pieces. She now sleeps in a daybed in the first-floor sunroom, where plenty of sunshine pours in, shimmering through glass Nativities and illuminating colorful ones that fill two shelves built in front of the windows overlooking woods and fields. Squires is the mother of eight and has 20 grandchildren, 22 great grandchildren and two great, great grandchildren. Members of her family have made Nativities for her -- one uses photographs of family members as the faces of the angels and people in the Nativity scene. At least 55 countries are represented in her collection. And even though she is surrounded

by Nativity sets, Squires never feels like there is too much Christmas.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 9, 2020

VATICAN CITY — On the eve of his 83rd birthday, Pope Francis met with a group of his peers -- although many were a few years younger -- and told them that “old age is a time of grace.” “Grandparents, who have received the blessing of seeing their children’s children, are entrusted with a great task: transmitting the experience of life and the history of the family, the community, the people,” the pope said Dec. 16 during an audience with members of the Italian National Association of Senior Workers. The association represents workers with at least 20 years of seniority in a company, defending the rights of older workers and promoting volunteer service by older people. Pope Francis, who was born Dec. 17, 1936, told association members that one’s later years should be a “season of dialogue,” because “the future of a people naturally presupposes a dialogue and encounter between the old and young to build a society that is more just, more beautiful, has more solidarity and is more Christian.” As one grows older, he said, “the Lord renews his call to us. He calls us to preserve and hand

6 OUR DIOCESE

Parish welcomes Msgr. Benwell as pastor at Mass of installation the solemnity of the Immaculate Conception of the Blessed Virgin Mary, the parish’s patroness, Msgr. Benwell WATCHUNG – Bishop James F. Chec- noted, “Mary has been so good to this chio issued the newest pastor of St. parish and to me personally.”

A native of Plainfield, Msgr.

Mary-Stony Hill Parish a loving challenge at his installation Dec. 8, saying Benwell, is one of five children born his task would be “to help us open our to William and Mary Benwell. Upon hearts more widely to Jesus so that his earning a bachelor’s degree in history from Rutgers Univerpresence may fill us and sity, New Brunswick, he all those we encounter completed his priestly . . . Msgr. Benwell each day.” studies in Immaculate The new shepherd, accepted the Conception Seminary, Msgr. William Benwell, Mahwah, where he accepted the bishop’s bishop's request, earned a master’s degree request, telling his new telling his new in pastoral theology. flock, “I promise you my He was ordained to the best, with the Lord’s help flock, " I promise priesthood by Bishop and Mary’s prayers.” you my best, John C. Reiss May 31, The members of St. 1980, at St. Mary CatheMary-Stony Hill Parwith the Lord's dral, Trenton. ish warmly welcomed Msgr. Benwell has their new pastor, who help and Mary's served as parochial vicar had been serving them prayers." at Our Lady of Victories since July 1. CongratulaParish, Sayreville; the tory banners adorned the Cathedral of St. Francis drive along the steep hill of Assisi, Metuchen, and upon which the church St. Ann Parish, Raritan was perched, and broad smiles greeted him as first the parish Borough; he served as pastor at Our staff, then finance council and trustees Lady of the Mount, Warren.

In 1988, he completed a two-year stood to indicate their approval of his leadership during the installation cer- course of study and was awarded a emony. Noting the installation fell near licentiate degree in canon law from

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

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JANUARY 9, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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Msgr. William Benwell addressed the parish staff, finance council and trustees and promised to work in concert with them as their pastor.

— John Batkowski photo

St. Paul University, Ottawa, Canada.

Then-Pope, now St. John Paul II made Father Benwell a Prelate of Honor to His Holiness and bestowed on him the title Monsignor in 1993.

Over the course of his priestly life, the bishops of the Diocese of Metuchen have assigned Msgr. Benwell to a number of roles, including ju-

01.24.20

With No response! We need to follow-up!

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CALL TO ACTION DAY

This past year, NJ Citizens mailed almost 150,000 postcards to NJ Legislators urging them to advance the “Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act” which would ban abortion in NJ past 20 weeks gestation.

AT BRIDGEWATER & HILLSBOROUGH

dicial vicar of the Tribunal, episcopal vicar for Somerset County, vice chancellor, vicar general and moderator of the curia, He currently serves as the diocesan Episcopal Vicar for Canonical Affairs and chairman of the board of trustees for Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen.

Call to Action! and contact your NJ representatives today

For More Information and to find your legislators visit here: www.babiesinthewombfeelpain.com

Savatta, a member of its stewardship committee, said, “It has been such a pleasure. He is so friendly and open to what we had already planned. He has been an inspiration and has wonderful ideas.”

Knights of Columbus member Fred Kayeck appreciated the new pastor’s contributions to the fraternal organization, noting, “He’s brought us all together. There are more people coming out and connecting with the Knights. We do more Catholic-oriented events, and he’s planning to continue and enhance the order.”

OUR DIOCESE

St. Mary-Stony Hill Parish is one of the oldest congregations in the diocese. It currently numbers about 1,050 families and 272 children in religious education classes.

In his homily, Bishop Checchio cautioned the congregation to assure secular Christmas preparations do not push Advent to the side.

“We can see Christ in every act of love, kindness and generosity in the person we are encountering,” the bishop said. “With faith, every moment becomes an opportunity for a divine encounter with Jesus.

“We are always standing on holy ground,” he continued. “St. Mary’s Parish is indeed holy ground, and each of your homes is holy ground… Thank you for making Watchung a bright light by living your faith every day of your lives.”

In his closing remarks, Msgr. Benwell’s self-effacing humility prompted laughter and warm applause from the congregation.

“Thanks to my predecessor, Father Brian Nolan. This is a vibrant, inclusive, community-oriented, forward-looking parish,” he said. “My goals and my vision for here is not to screw it up. I thank God for the gift of my priesthood of about 39 years, and Mary, the Mother of God, for her unceasing intercession.”

Parishioners were eager to share their praise for Msgr. Benwell. Sonja

7

Continued from previous page

Above, Bishop James F. Checchio prays the anamnesis of the eucharistic prayer. Top right, Msgr. Benwell receives a congratulatory handshake from one of his parishioners.

At right, Bishop Checchio chats with some of the Knights of Columbus at the reception.

COUNSELING & WELLNESS SERVICES

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MARCH FOR LIFE FRIDAY, JANUARY 24, 2020 WASHINGTON BUSES • FRI., JANUARY 24, 2020 Immaculate Conception, Annandale - Bill Smith (908) 797-7359 St. Magdalen de Pazzi, Flemington - Carmela Kinney (908) 782-2922 Our Lady of Peace, Fords - Emil Ferlicchi (732) 261-8280 St. Francis Cathedral, Metuchen - Elaine Yunker (732) 754-3692 St. Ambrose, Old Bridge - Leigha Hughes (732) 679-5666 St. Thomas the Apostle, Old Bridge - Thomas Smith (423) 595-8211 St. Philip & St. James, Phillipsburg - Colleen Wolters (908) 454-9880 La Asuncion, Perth Amboy - Parish Office (732) 442-0512 Immaculate Conception, Somerville - Kevin Dugan (908) 788-7736

TRENTON RALLY BUS • WEDNESDAY, JANUARY 22, 2020 Diocese of Metuchen, Piscataway - Angela Marshall (732) 562-1543 For updated information contact the Office of Human Life and Dignity at 732-562-1543; amarshall@diometuchen.org; or www.diometuchen.org For information for the Trenton Rally for Life call NJRTL at 732-562-0562

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 9, 2020

I F YO U O R S O M E O N E YO U K N O W NEEDS COUNSELING OR IS IMPACTED BY ADDICTION, WE C A N HE L P .

— John Batkowski photos

8 OUR DIOCESE

Filipino Christmas novena draws fervor and zeal around diocese Continued from page 3

represented a nine-day journey with Mary.

“There are so many things to be grateful for,” Father Paderon said. “This morning, for the first time, Pope Francis celebrated Simbang Gabi in St. Peter’s Square.”

He reminded the congregation that Archbishop Bernardito Auza, a native of the Philippines, had been recently assigned as Apostolic Nuncio to Spain, observing, “Almost 500 years ago, the Spaniards came to evangelize in the Philippines. Now one of us are there to evangelize in Spain.

“We are charged to continue evangelizing as our mission. Pass it on to the new generation.”

Congregants at the celebration intended to do just that.

The Serrano family, members of the Cathedral Parish, admired the brightly colored and electrified parols as they processed down the aisle.

Claire, 8, told her mother she might make one at home. Her mother, Jean, explained she attended the Simbang Gabi Mass “because I find it unifying. I like to sing the traditional songs.”

Loreto Larobis, his wife, Melanie, and seven-year-old son, Arsenio, smiled as a friend took their picture after the Mass. The family, members of St. Matthew Parish, Edison, saw the Simbang

Gabi as a teaching moment.

“This is tradition; I went to Simbang Gabi when I was in the Philippines,” said Loreto, who was celebrating his birthday at the Mass. His wife added, “I explained to [Arsenio] about how the stars led the shepherds to Bethlehem.”

When he was asked what he would remember about the evening, Arsenio said, “The shepherds told us where to find Jesus.”

Right, Msgr. Robert Zamorski leads the eucharistic prayer. Bottom right, the parols with stars represent the Star of Bethlehem. These and lanterns are traditionally carried in procession during the Masses of the novena. Below, worshipers sing songs in Tagalog during the liturgy.

— John Batkowski photos

The Shrine of St. Joseph GIFT & BOOK SHOP 1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling, NJ 07980

The Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen

ANNUAL RESPECT LIFE MASS & PRESENTATION OF PRO-VITA AWARDS

JANUARY 9, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

47th Anniversary of the Supreme Court decision in Roe v. Wade

January 19, 2020 • 12 Noon Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi 32 ELM AVENUE, METUCHEN

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

Join us as we celebrate God’s gift of Human Life and the 2020 Pro-Vita awardee:

Rosemary Kern

Saint Peter’s University Hospital, Manager of Project ResepctEd, Natural Family Planning Instructor St. Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington, NJ

Also Honoring: Deacon Stephen & Rosemary Kern Deacon Greg & Liz Caruso • Deacon Jim & Helen Rivera Marriage Preparation Ministr Ministry

All are welcome to attend.

A light reception will be held immediately following the Mass.

For more information, please call the Office of Human Life and Dignity at 732-562-1990, ext. 1629 or 1543

The Sister Servants of Jesus invite our friends, old and new, to visit our charming Gift and Book Shop, featuring a wide array of religious selections for you and your loved ones.

Seven-Day Prayer Intention Candles!

Religious Books • DVDs • CDs • Cards • Bibles • Gifts • Medals Rosaries • Statues • Crosses • Boys & Girls Communion Clothes & More

908-647-2766 • www.stshrine.org Hours: M-Sat: 10am - 5pm • Sun: 11am - 3pm

“Come follow me” (Mark 10:21)

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

If you think maybe...

Contact the

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

Newark, Paterson and Trenton. The and corroboration than required in a program was established to compensate court of law. The IVCP is completely those who, as children or young adults, voluntary and no individual claimant is were sexually abused by a priest or required to participate. Only if the indeacon of the Diocese. dividual victim accepts All victims — no matthe amount offered by ter when the abuse octhe administrators will “We will curred — are eligible a signed release be to participate, and all required, in which the continue to matters are handled victim agrees not to work with confidentially. engage in any further “While no amount litigation against the survivors, their of money can heal the particular diocese. wounds suffered by The compensation legal represensurvivors of abuse, the program is being indetatives and law compensation to survipendently administered vors is an outward sign

by Kenneth R. Feinenforcement and a show of good berg and Camille S. Bito promote faith that the Diocese ros, two noted victims’ of Metuchen is comcompensation experts healing, restore mitted to furthering who have designed their healing,” said and administered trust and further Kearns. similar compensation transparency.”

The program is enprograms for Catholic —Anthony P. Kearns III dorsed by all five Rodioceses in New York man Catholic Dioceses and Pennsylvania. The in New Jersey and their two administrators bishops who are united operate in complete in supporting abuse survivors by pro- independence of the Diocese in deterviding them with an efficient alterna- mining eligibility and the amount of tive to litigation, that is both speedy compensation. Church officials have and transparent, to resolve their claims no authority to challenge the decisions with a significantly lower level of proof or the amounts awarded as determined

OUR DIOCESE

PISCATAWAY — The Diocese of Metuchen is among the five Roman Catholic dioceses in New Jersey to announce a six-week extension for survivors of clergy sexual abuse who may still want to file a claim through the Independent Victims Compensation Program (IVCP).

The deadline for the registration of new allegations has been extended until Jan. 31, while the deadline for the submission of all claims has been extended until Feb. 15. Those survivors, who as minors were the victim of clergy sexual abuse and who now wish to pursue a claim through the IVCP, can begin the claims process by going to www.NJdiocesesIVCP.com.

“It is our hope to reach as many survivors, who as children or young adults were the victim of clergy sexual abuse, as we can through this program to give those who prefer an independent and confidential alternative to litigation the chance to seek healing, recovery and redress,” said Anthony P. Kearns III, Esq., spokesperson and chancellor of the Diocese of Metuchen.

Since June 15, the IVCP has been accepting claims related to the sexual abuse of minors by diocesan priests and deacons in the five Roman Catholic Arch/Dioceses of Metuchen, Camden,

9

New deadline for NJ Independent Victim Compensation Program

by the administrators.

“Though this is a painful and horrific chapter in the history of the Church, the Diocese of Metuchen has taken many steps to protect children and will continue on this path, remaining vigilant in our efforts to protect the young and the vulnerable and to prevent these abuses from ever happening again,” said Kearns.

Since 2002, the Diocese has required background checks, child protection training for all who work or volunteer with children and has implemented zero-tolerance policies. The Diocese also relies on a Review Board to review every accusation as soon as it is received unless there is an active criminal investigation. No cleric who has had a credible accusation of child sexual abuse is in active ministry.

As a matter of strictly adhered to protocol, as soon as a complaint is received, as in all circumstances involving the protection of young people, the Diocese immediately reports the matters to, and cooperates with, the prosecutor and the attorney general.

“We will continue to work with survivors, their legal representatives and law enforcement to promote healing, restore trust and further transparPassion PassionPlay Play ency,” said Kearns.

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10 SPECIAL FEATURE

Pastor experiences work of charitable agency first-hand

By Father Anthony M. Sirianni (Editor’s note: Father Sirianni, pastor, St. Helena Parish, Edison, recently spent three days with Catholic Extension in the United States Virgin Islands in one of the poorest dioceses in the United States. Since Catholic Extension

was founded in 1905 by Father Francis Clement Kelly in Lapeer, Mich., the now Chicagobased Papal Society has contributed more than $500 million — $1.2 billion in today’s dollars — to poor mission dioceses in the U.S. where the faith is thriving but the resources are scarce. Below is an excerpt from a message from Father Sirianni to his parishioners about the visit.)

When I announced this at church everyone thought I was going to be swimming in the Caribbean and spending time at the beach because so many people do go there for va-

JANUARY 9, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Left, Father Anthony M. Sirianni (right) poses with Bishop Herbert Bevard, during Father Sirianni’s visit to the United States Virgin Islands, which Bishop Bevard leads.

Below, Father Sirianni speaks to a student in one of the diocesan schools.

cation. I understand this rationale and was looking forward to some nice weather myself, but once I arrived on the island, and visited the places destroyed by weather and poverty, I looked at this place from a different perspective.

The first place I visited was the Catholic Charities Homeless Shelter. This shelter housed many elderly and disabled left behind when the masses of young families left after Hurricane Dorian struck. With very little help, except for FEMA (Federal Emergency Management Agency), the local Catholic Charity organization does its best to care for the needy.

The responsibility is great since it is responsible for a region consisting of three islands: St. Thomas, St. John and St. Croix.

Bishop Herbert Bevard, who is responsible for all three islands said, “It is an odd entity: a diocese that was created by carving out a region from some of the former diocese’s poorest parishes.”

I also visited schools that were just recently being rebuilt by FEMA. Many in the United States don’t realize that in the United States Virgin Islands, FEMA was not allowed to help religious organizations.

On the islands, the government moves at a snail’s pace and the governing body does not prioritize things like we would on the mainland of the United States. So, with the recent help of FEMA and the continual support of Catholic Charities, along with the local population, the schools are now habitable but do not rise to the level they once were. Lack of electricity destroyed technology and a weak economy have all threatened the continuation of Catholic education on the islands. Parents

Father Anthony M. Sirianni speaks to a teacher in one of the schools he visited in the United States Virgin Islands: Cathedral in Saint Thomas and Saint Mary and Saint Joseph High in Saint Croix. — photos courtesy of Father Anthony M. Sirianni

sacrifice a lot to send their children to Catholic school. Paying tuition is difficult because of the economy. Some students travel far distances to attend Catholic school. One example is a seventh grader whose family lives on Saint John Island. He has to take a boat to get to Saint Thomas to go to Catholic School.

Being with the students, you can understand why parents make the sacrifice. Amidst the hot and humid weather, students sit in crisp clean uniforms eagerly waiting to learn. Many demonstrate the morals and teaching learned from a Catholic education.

Teachers and staff are dedicated to their jobs and come to school cheerful despite the lack of electricity and technology.

It was inspiring to see the living Gospel at work and manifest itself in the acts of the 14 priests, religious, deacons, and laity who care for the poorest of the poor every day. These religious men and women truly live out the mission by performing Corporal Works of Mercy.

Catholic Extension is funding the diocese in St. Thomas Virgin Islands and allowing the Bishop and the diocese to work hand in hand with them to serve those in need. The money goes right to the people in need.

I want to thank Catholic Extension for allowing me to have this experience and I look forward to supporting Catholic Extension in the future.

Social Service Center.

The Thrift Store provides dis“We’re not done yet,” said Catholic counted items to those in need and Charities Program Director Sister Mi- generates funds to help operate the Warren Basic Matechaelita Popovice. “On rial Needs Program. Last Dec. 14, 200 families The Catholic from the Social Service year, Catholic Charities responded to more than Center will receive Charities’ Food food distributed by the 11,000 requests for food and clothing in Warren Knights of Columbus Pantry is the County.

Council 474 to prepare largest in Warren Catholic Charities Christmas Dinner, and 300 children will regraciously accepts doCounty, serving ceive Christmas gifts nations and gift cards more than 1,000 onsite during regular donated by individustore hours at the Food als and churches from households and Pantry and Thrift Store Warren and Hunterdon counties. It is projects providing a safety co-located at the Social like these that help Service Center at 387 S. net to individuals Main St., Phillipsburg. make life just a little Donations can ineasier for people strugand families with clude non-perishable gling, especially during limited resources. food items, gently used the Thanksgiving and Christmas Seasons.” clothing, shoes, accessoThe Catholic ries, household furnishings, small appliances, Charities’ Food Pantry jewelry, books, and colis the largest in Warren lectibles.

County, serving more To make an online donation to than 1,000 households and providing a safety net to individuals and families Catholic Charities, please visit www. ccdom.org/donatenow. with limited resources.

OUR DIOCESE

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, in collaboration with St. Philip and St. James Parish, Phillipsburg, has brought Thanksgiving cheer to the Phillipsburg community for the last 28 years.

This year’s Thanksgiving project was organized by the parish’s Food for the Needy ministry. Seventy volunteers helped prepare and distribute Thanksgiving baskets which included all the ingredients of a festive Thanksgiving dinner along with items that will last families beyond Thanksgiving.

Donations consisted of perishable and non-perishable food, monetary gifts and store certificates. ShopRite of Greenwich donated 325 gallons of milk and Boy Scout Troop 50 at St. Philip and St. James Parish spent Nov. 24 at the ShopRite in Greenwich collecting groceries to fill the baskets. Customers generously gave money for the Catholic Charities Food Pantry to buy needed items. Contributions came from families, individuals, churches, schools, businesses and organizations in Warren and Hunterdon counties.

Overall, 360 Thanksgiving baskets were distributed, which served 987 people in need from the Catholic Charities

11

Spirit of giving touches needy in Phillipsburg thanks to Catholic Charities

Mercy Sister Mary Michaelita Popovice, program director, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, and Lisa Hummell, chairperson, Food for the Needy Committee at St. Philip and St. James Parish, Phillipsburg, pose near bags of food at Mercy Hall. This year, 360 Thanksgiving baskets were assembled and distributed to needy families in the Phillipsburg community.

— photo courtesy of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen

Anniversary Mass Father Joseph L. Desmond, founding pastor of Most Holy Redeemer Parish, Old Bridge, presided and gave the homily at a special 35th anniversary Mass at Most Holy Redeemer Church Nov. 17. He was joined by Father Chester H. Carina, pastor, and Father Henry L. Hemmerling, pastor emeritus; and Deacons Robert McGovern and A. Keith Berg. A reception followed in the parish hall. Most Holy Redeemer was established in honor of the Extraordinary Holy Year of the Redemption in 1983, and the first Mass was celebrated in November 1984. The church was constructed in 1987. The parish has more than 1,600 registered households, with 260 children attending religious education. Father Edward J. Struzik, who is retired, is also a pastor emeritus.

— photo courtesy of John Kibbler

— photo courtesy of Knights of Columbus Council 2393

JANUARY 9, 2020

The Knights of Columbus Council 2393, Basking Ridge, recently donated $500 checks to four seminarians of the Diocese of Metuchen who are studying for the priesthood at Seton Hall University, Immaculate Conception Seminary, South Orange. The money was raised from the Knights’ Country Breakfasts held in the fall. Posing for a photo, from left, seminarians Jun Alquiros and David Keyes; Deputy Grand Knight Rich Mazzio, Knight Keith Spero, and seminarians Thomas Pluhar and Ariel Bautista.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Supporting Seminarians

OUR FAITH

12

Priest, Mass, mortal sin/Ancient practices Q Pope Francis

AUDIENCE

Prayer for the Respect of Life THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Question Corner

December 18, 2019 Dear Brothers and Sisters: In these last days of Advent, we do well to ask ourselves: How am I preparing for the birth of Jesus? One way to prepare for Christmas is to set up a nativity scene in our homes, churches and public spaces, a lovely tradition that began with Saint Francis of Assisi. The Christmas crèche is a kind of living Gospel, a touching reminder that the Lord showed his love for us by being born as one of us, in order to share in our daily lives, hopes and concerns.

The name Bethlehem, which means “house of bread”, and the image of the manger, evoke the meals which we share as families, and the centrality of Jesus, the living bread come down from heaven, in our family life.

In this world of frenetic activity, the Christmas crèche also encourages us to pause and contemplate what is truly important in life. Everything in the nativity scene speaks of the harmony and peace that only Christ the Saviour can bring to our lives and to our world. As we gaze upon the lowly scene of Jesus’ birth, let us invite him into our hearts, so that each new day can bring spiritual rebirth and preserve in us the joy of Christmas.

JANUARY 9, 2020

Pa.)

How can a priest in the state of mortal sin offer the holy sacrifice of the Mass and receive Communion? (Northampton,

Heavenly Father, the beauty and dignity of human life was the crowning of your creation. You further ennobled that life when your Son became one with us in his incarnation. Help us to realize the sacredness of human life and to respect it from the moment of conception until the last moment at death. Give us courage to speak with truth and love and with conviction in defense of life. Help us to extend the gentle hand of mercy and forgiveness to those who do not reverence your gift of life. To all, grant pardon for the times we have failed to be grateful for your precious gift of life or to respect it in others. We ask this in Jesus' Name.

Amen.

By Father Kenneth Doyle Generally speaking, a priest would not be permitted to celebrate Mass while in a state of mortal sin. A priest is governed by the same rule as every other Catholic — namely, that the state of grace is required for the worthy reception of holy Communion.

I should note here that the validity of the Mass is not affected by the state of the celebrant’s soul; the Church has always taught that the sacraments act “ex opere operato,” that is, by the very fact of the action’s being performed.

If a celebrant were in the state of mortal sin, the consecration would still be valid, and those who took Communion would still be receiving the true body and blood of Christ. Section 1128 of the Catechism of the Catholic Church notes that “from

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the moment that a sacrament is celebrated in accordance with the intention of the church, the power of Christ and his Spirit acts in it and through it, independently of the personal holiness of the minister.”

So generally, a priest in the state of serious sin should not celebrate Mass, and to do so would be a sacrilege. The exception to the rule would be if the priest were forced by the circumstances to offer Mass despite the state of his soul, and the Code of Canon Law addresses this specifically: “A person who is conscious of grave sin is not to celebrate Mass or receive the body of the Lord without previous sacramental confession unless there is a grave reason and there is no opportunity to confess; in this case the person is to remember the obligation to make an act of perfect contrition which includes the resolution of confessing as soon as possible” (Canon 916).

A priest in mortal sin scheduled to offer Mass for a waiting community, with no opportunity to confess and no other priest available, could go ahead and celebrate the Eucharist, but then he should go to confession at the first opportunity.

When is violating one’s body through self-flagellation permitted to get “more points” for going to heaven? In a book I’m reading about Padre Pio, there is a mention of friars whipping themselves to the point of bleeding. Is this what God

Q

expects of us, or are there fanatic people who go to the extreme to be like Christ?

(Beaverton, Ore.) No, I don’t think that self-flagellation is what “God expects of us.” Corporal mortification has been part of the Christian life for centuries, but in contemporary society it is more often exemplified by such practices as dietary discipline. The portrayal in “The Da Vinci Code” of monks undergoing bloody self-beatings is clearly an exaggeration.

The website of the Catholic group Opus Dei says that some of its members do self-flagellate for one or two minutes a week but use a woven cotton string that causes some discomfort but does not draw blood. The purpose of the practice is to imitate Christ by sharing in his suffering. (St. Dominic prayed with arms outstretched for lengthy periods as Jesus did on the cross.)

In a 2010 article, reacting to a report that St. John Paul II kept a disciplinary belt in his closet, Father (now Bishop) Robert E. Barron explained that the instrument was likely a rope with a few small knots in it and that the actual physical pain was probably minimal.

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

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You're never too old to reach out to young

When writing I generally try to reach as broad an audience as possible, but, as we begin this new year, I’d like to address myself to those who feel they are growing old.

Year of Consecrated Life

By Sister Constance Veit, l.s.p.

“Aren’t we all growing old?” you might wonder. Well, yes and no!

Although Pope Francis often expresses his esteem and appreciation for the elderly, he also speaks of “growing old” as something to avoid at all costs.

He refers to a certain kind of aging: “growing old out of sorrow, resentment or fear, doubt or failure,” of being “encased in the past,” and letting one’s horizons shrink.

In his book on aging, “Sharing the Wisdom of Time,” the pope laments older people who have become cynical. “They become unwilling to share their experience,” he writes. “They look down on young people. They are always complaining. They cannot share wisdom.

They can only look back fruitlessly on earlier times.”

At the same time, Pope Francis affirms the Biblical admonition to “to accept the authority of those who are older” (1 Pet 5:5). “The Bible never ceases to insist that profound respect be shown to the elderly, since they have a wealth of experience,” he writes. “In the silence of their heart, they have a store of experiences that can teach us not to make mistakes or be taken in by false promises.”

“Jesus tells us that the wise are able to bring forth from their store things both new and old (cf. Mt 13:52),” Francis continues. Herein lies the key to aging without growing old — to remain flexible, to accumulate wisdom and to know how to bring forth from one’s store both old and new.

I think this wisdom and flexibility are crucial today if we hope to reverse the vocation crisis and the tide of young people leaving the Church. Sociologist Sister Mary Johnson, S.N.D. de N. writes, “Staying mentally flexible enough to communicate across any cultural boundary — whether of ethnicity, class or generation — is hard work. As a result, most people do not bother to do it very often. We tend to choose our friends from those like us …. The older we get, therefore, the more twenty-somethings seem foreign to us, and we to them, unless we make concerted attempts to bridge the gap.”

Twenty-somethings are showing us just how foreign we are to them. Recent surveys indicate that 50 percent of young people who were brought up Catholic now self-identify as “nones,” meaning they do not espouse any religion. As we set off on this new year, let’s ask ourselves: what we can do to stem this tragic exodus!

In “Christus Vivit,” the document Pope Francis wrote following the 2018 Synod on Youth, he advises us to return to the sources of our Catholic faith.

“Jesus is risen, and he wants to make us sharers in the new life of the resurrection. He is the true youthfulness of a world grown old, the youthfulness of a universe waiting ‘in travail’ (Rom 8:22) to be clothed with his light and to live his life. With him at our side, we can drink from the true wellspring that keeps alive all our dreams, our projects, our great ideals, while impelling us to proclaim what makes life truly worthwhile.”

In this new year, let’s shake off whatever is weighing us down and limiting our horizons so that we can reach out with open arms and hearts to welcome the younger generations into the Church and to show them how much God loves them and is waiting for them.

Sister Constance Veit is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.

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Principal task of Jesus revealed Our celebration of the Baptism of the Lord this Sunday brings to a close our Christmas observances. As such, this feast marks an important transition from our adoration of the child in the manger to a commitment to the adult Christ who calls us to follow him. While the Christmas season provides a warm respite to consider our Savior’s humble birth and loving family life, the Feast of the Baptism of the Lord reminds us that Christ and those who follow him are entrusted with the vital mission of proclaiming the Kingdom of God.

SCRIPTURE STUDY

By Msgr. John N. Fell

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE Sun 12 Mon 13 Tues 14 Wed 15 Thurs 16 Fri 17 Sat 18 Sun 19 Mon 20 Tues 21 Wed 22 Thurs 23 Fri 24 Sat 25

SUNDAY, JANUARY 12 - SATURDAY, JANUARY 25

Is 42:1-4, 6-7 • Ps 29:1-2, 3-4, 3, 9-10 • Acts 10:34-38 • Mt 3:13-17 1 Sm 1:1-8 • Ps 116:12-13, 14-17, 18-19 • Mt 1:14-20 1 Sm 1:9-20 • 1 Sm 2:1, 4-5, 6-7, 8abcd • Mk 1:21-28 1 Sm 3:1-10, 19-20 • Ps 40:2, 5, 7-8a, 8b-9, 10 • Mk 1:29-39 1 Sm 4:1-11 • Ps 44:10-11, 14-15, 24-25 • Mk 1:40-45 1 Sm 8:4-7, 10-22a • Ps 89:16-17, 18-19 • Mk 2:1-12 1 Sm 9:1-4, 17-19 • Ps 21:2-3, 4-5, 6-7 • Mk 2:13-17 Is 49:3, 5-6 • Ps 40:2, 4, 7-8, 8-9, 10 • 1 Cor 1:1-3 • Jn 1:29-34 1 Sm 15:16-23 • Ps 50:8-9, 16bc-17, 21, 23 • Mk 2:18-22 1 Sm 16:1-13 • Ps 89:20, 21-22, 27-28 • Mk 2:23-28 1 Sm 17:32-33, 37, 40-51 • Ps 144:1b, 2, 9-10 • Mk 3:1-6 1 Sm 18:6-9: 19:1-7 • Ps 56:2-3, 9-10a, 10b-11, 12-13 • Mk 3:7-12 1 Sm 24:3-21 • Ps 57:2, 3-4, 6, 11 • Mk 3:13-19 Acts 22:3-16 • Ps 117:1bc, 2 • Mk 16:15-18

Arnold Janssen 1837-1909 January 15

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Born in Goch, Germany, Arnold was educated and ordained in Germany, where he taught mathematics and natural sciences and served as chaplain at an Ursuline convent. In 1875, at a mission house in the Netherlands, he founded the Society of the Divine Word, or Verbites, to provide priests and lay brothers for the missions. He also established the Holy Spirit missionary sisters in 1889. Beatified by Pope Paul VI in 1975, Arnold was canonized in October of 2003 by Pope John Paul II.

Saints

 

  

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



        

       

 

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

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 9, 2020

The Church prepares us for the scene of Christ’s Baptism by placing before us our first reading from the Book of Isaiah. This section of the book, known as Deutero (or Second) Isaiah, was likely written around the year 550 BC. This particular reading is known as the first of the Suffering Servant Songs, one of a series of four texts which seem to closely pre-figure Jesus’ own understanding of his Messianic mission. In this text we find the themes of election and righteousness crucial for a proper understanding of the events of Christ’s Baptism.

The text begins, “Here is my servant whom I uphold, my chosen one with whom I am pleased, upon whom I have put my spirit” (Is 42:1a-c). In this text we learn that the servant has been chosen by God himself (previous chosen servants include Moses, David, and even Israel as a whole), that he is beloved of the Lord, and that he has been endowed by God’s mighty spirit for the task he is meant to fulfill. This is an important part of being chosen by God — it is never a purely personal honor, but rather a selection for mission. The mission of this servant, we learn, is to “bring forth justice to the nations” (Is 42:1d).

“Justice” is here understood to mean the fullness of God’s promise of salvation; “justice” is the divinely intended order and harmony of all of creation, all beings in proper relationship with each other.

We further learn that this servant will be quiet and strong, that he will fulfill his mission with gentleness and compassion, and that his domain will cover the entire earth. God speaks to his servant, reminding him that “I formed you, and set you as a covenant of the people, a light for the nations” (Is 42:6b), further instructing him “to open the eyes of the blind, to bring out prisoners from confinement” (Is 42:7a-b), that is, to help people realize their sinfulness and then

release them from their bondage to sin.

With this in mind, we come to St. Matthew’s account of the Baptism of the Lord. First, the Gospel tells us that Jesus approached John the Baptist. John, recognizing him, protested, “I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?” (Mt 3:14).

Jesus insisted, “Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness” (Mt 3:15). In this reply, Jesus draws John into his confidence, and then points out that this is for righteousness. In this context, righteousness means the same thing as “justice” above; Jesus is telling John that this Baptism is part of God’s divine plan, and that they both must carry it out.

Immediately following the Baptism, St. Matthew tells us that Jesus came out of the water and that “the heavens were opened for him, and he saw the Spirit of God descending like a dove and coming upon him” (Mt 3:16). In the opening of the heavens, we have a sign of a new era in the relationship between God and humanity. The opening of the gap between heaven and earth was the principal task of Jesus, himself the fullness of God’s self-revelation.

The descent of the dove indicates the presence of the Holy Spirit and may also recall the moment when the Spirit hovered over the waters at the first creation, symbolizing Jesus’ mission to restore all creation to its primordial dignity.

Finally, “a voice came from the heavens, saying, ‘This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased’” (Mt 3:17). Whereas, stains Mark and Luke present the Father’s voice as speaking directly to Jesus, St. Matthew presents the Father as speaking to both Jesus and the assembled crowd. This announcement, closely reminiscent of that in Isaiah above, proclaims Jesus’ election by the Father for the mission upon which he was about to embark. It also sets Jesus in the lineage of the Suffering Servant theme, revealing him as the gentle, compassionate Savior who would be faithfully obedient to the Father, and by his obedience, win pardon for the sins of his people.

As we close out this Christmas season, let us dedicate ourselves to following in the footsteps of this adult Christ. We recall the Church’s great prayer to the Father of heaven: “you so loved the world that in your mercy you sent us the Redeemer . . . so that you might love in us what you loved in your Son” (Preface VII, Sundays of Ordinary Time). May we so live out our Baptismal call that God and all his people may see and love the image of Jesus radiating forth from each of us.

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

OUR FAITH

Baptism of the Lord (A)

14

Evangelization HERE AND NOW

New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey 新澤Chinese 西華人Catholic 天主教Apostolate 會

McAULEY

EVANGELIZATION HERE & NOW

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Casa Giuseppe Specializing

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JANUARY 9, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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“The most memorable aspect of my trip was being able to interact with and meet the families being helped by Operation Smile,” she continued “The kids were full of energy, and so much fun to play with. The families were so sweet and so grateful, and it was amazing to hear their stories about how far they had traveled for the surgery and how thankful they were to Operation Smile.

“It was also really amazing to see children through the surgery process, from the first day of screening to their surgery day, to the Post-Op Ward and seeing their transformed smile. Being able to visualize the surgery process and to get to know the kids whose lives were being changed was an unforgettable experience, and I will be forever grateful to Operation Smile for this opportunity.”

Grace would recommend a mission trip to her peers because she believes it is a great way to understand the impact of Operation Smile and experience another culture and life in other parts of the world.

“Being able to meet children and families and see them through the surgery process and watch their transformation is incredibly powerful, and a great reminder of all the great work Operation Smile does,” she concluded. “Operation Smile is unique because it allows students to have a big role in the program, and if someone is interested in their mission, I would definitely recommend they take advantage of this opportunity.”

Operation Smile, based in Virginia Beach, Va., was founded in 1982 when Dr. William P. Magee Jr., a plastic surgeon, and his wife, Kathleen, a nurse and clinical social worker, traveled to the Philippines with a group of medical volunteers to repair children’s cleft lips and cleft palates, according to the organization's website.

Grace Cull, a senior at Mount Saint Mary Academy, Watchung, plays with children who are about to undergo surgery as part of Operation Smile in Tacloban City, Leyte, Philippines. Cull, of Scotch Plains, has been a member of the Operation Smile Club at Mount Saint Mary Academy since she was a freshman. Each year since it was founded in 1982, Operation Smile conducts hundreds of medical missions around the world. Mount Saint Mary Academy, a sponsored work of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, is a Catholic, independent school that provides a college preparatory education for more than 370 girls in grades 9 through 12.

— photo courtesy of Grace Cull

canines.”) A most fitting conclusion without end. For what other end do afforded Kilmer by the officiating min- we have, if not to reach the kingdom ister at the dedication ceremony was a which has no end.” solemn reading of the Beatitudes.

Any moment of the day or night The Catechism tells us that the the trumpet blast of death may sound Beatitudes “are at the heart of Jesus’ before our door, may summon us to appreaching” (ccc 1716) pear before the eternal, because they “take up knowing Judge, to “The Beatitudes all the promises made to hear Him say: “heaven, the chosen people since hell, or purgatory.” How ...reveal the Abraham [and] fulfill different life and the

By Father John Gerard Hillier goal of human the promises by orderthings of life will seem ing them no longer in that moment of parexistence, the Among the poems my dad would often merely to the possession ticular judgment. What ultimate end recite from memory was a poem called of a territory, but to the we thought so important “Trees” by New Brunswick, New Kingdom of heaven” — money, fame, social of human acts: Jersey native Alfred Joyce Kilmer. I (ccc 1716). The first position, pleasure, comfondly recall the opening line: “I think evangelist, St. Matthew, fort — will be worthless, God calls us to that I shall never see, a poem lovely as is responsible for giving and often, if sinfully his own a tree;” and the final line would always us the Beatitudes spoobtained and sinfully bring a smile to my face: “Poems are ken by Jesus: enjoyed, these apparbeatitude” made by fools like me, but only God “Blessed are the ently precious things (ccc 1719). can make a tree.” poor in spirit, for theirs will be a mark against Kilmer, a convert to Catholicism, is the kingdom of heavus. On the other hand, had five children with his wife Aline en. how valuable would be before his untimely death in 1918 at Blessed are those the things we thought the age of 31 on a battlefield in France who mourn, for they shall be com- of little worth — a prayer, a visit to during World War I. forted.

Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, an Another poem of Kilmer’s called Blessed are the meek, for they act of charity, a kind word, a penance “Prayer of a Soldier in France,” com- shall inherit the earth. assumed or some suffering or pain pares the pack on his back growing Blessed are those who hunger and endured for love of God. If we would heavy with thoughts of the cross on thirst for righteousness, for they shall put ourselves in the position and light Christ’s shoulder; when his feet burn be satisfied. of that particular judgment, we would and smart, he remembers the pierced Blessed are the merciful, for they be much more ready for it. No wonder feet of Christ; when officers shout and shall obtain mercy. curse, he recalls the shouting mob; Blessed are the pure in heart, for when his rifle hand grows still and they shall see God. numb, he thinks of the nailed hands of Blessed are the peacemakers, for Jesus. In the final lines of the poem he they shall be called sons of God. writes, “Lord, Thou didst suffer more Blessed are those who are perfor me than all the hosts of land and secuted for righteousness’ sake, for sea.” theirs is the kingdom of heaven.

Kilmer’s creative ability transBlessed are you when men revile formed his poetry into tracts of cat- you and persecute you and utter all echetical instruction. From the suffer- kinds of evil against you falsely on my ings of Christ, this poet-soldier also account. drew courage from his own sufferings Rejoice and be glad, for your reand inspired others to do likewise. ward is great in heaven.” (Mt 5:3-12) This did not go unnoticed, even soon “The Beatitudes,” states the Catafter his death when parks were dedi- echism a few paragraphs later, “reveal cated to him, including one on the the goal of human existence, the ultiswank Grand Concourse in New York. mate end of human acts: God calls us (One particular professor, though, felt to his own beatitude” (ccc 1719).

CMS the honor was excessive, musing that Quoted in paragraph 1722 of the Five-Star he would have been satisfied to see a Catechism, St. Augustine says it this Quality fire hydrant named in Kilmer’s honor, way: “There we shall rest and see, we Rating preferably in some quarter of the city shall see and love, we shall love and in All Categories with a large population of “micturating praise. Behold what will be at the end Family Care Placement,

Journey of Faith

“the beatitude” we are promised confronts us with decisive moral choices.

It invites us to purify our hearts of bad instincts and to seek the love of God above all else” (ccc 1723).

The great 19th century, newly canonized British convert, St. Cardinal John Henry Newman, in his beautiful poem, “The Dream of Gerontius,” pictures that particular judgment in graphic words. He tells us that the sight of the Judge will kindle tender, reverential thoughts. The soul will be overcome with love and yearning for God. Yet, should it not be fit for heaven, the soul itself will want to leave God until it is fit for His company.

Newman tenderly describes how the angel guardian takes the soul gently to the lake of purgatory, after the particular trial. When that day of gathering and reckoning comes, may each one of us by the grace and goodness of God, be not among the weeds that will be bundled up for burning, but among the wheat that is gathered into the eternal barn. No wonder “God put us in the world to know, to love, and to serve him, and so to come to paradise” (ccc 1721).

Father Hillier serves as Director of the Diocesan Office of the Pontifical Missions, the Office for Persons with Disabilities, and Censor Librorum.

FAITH ALIVE

Article 131 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 1716-1724

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Spirit of Giving

OUR DIOCESE

In November, students at Immaculate Conception School, Spotswood, and their families, in partnership with a number of local businesses, participated in a food drive called “Operation Thanksgiving Baskets” for needy families.

The baskets included stuffing, mashed potatoes, cornbread mix, cake ingredients, cranberry sauce, and a gift card to a local grocery store in hopes that the family could pick up a turkey or ham. Students and families also volunteered their time at a food drive at ShopRite handing out flyers and collecting donations from generous shoppers. Students put together 37 baskets/boxes. A total of 55 baskets/boxes were donated to local pantries in Spotswood and Jamesburg, and to the Society of St. Vincent DePaul.

Vital Support Grand Knight Mario Bernardo (left) of the Knights of Columbus Council at St. Joseph Parish, High Bridge, and James McCloskey (right) the Council's community director, recently presented a check for $2,489 to Jeffrey Mattison, executive director, ARC of Hunterdon County. The money was raised in the Council's annual collection to support people with intellectual disabilities conducted at St. Joseph Parish and ShopRite, Franklin Township, Hunterdon County.

— photo courtesy of Immaculate Conception School

— Steve Bauernfeind photo

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DOWN 1 Knights of ___ 3 AKA Galilee (Jn 6:1) 4 ___ occasion of sin 5 Diocese on the French Riviera 6 Call letters for the Vatican radio station 7 Place of the ___ (Mt 27: 33) 10 College of Cardinals’ task regarding the pope 12 11th century theologian 18 ___ docendi 19 President Johnson’s daughter who converted to Catholicism 21 You cannot serve God and this 23 The Council of Trent met in three 24 The ___ garment of Christ 25 Prepare to pray 26 ___ of Christ 31 Sign of papal office 32 Catholic comedienne of “Your Show of Shows” 34 The feast of St. Alphonsus Liguori is the first of this month

ACROSS 2 This was rolled in front of Jesus’ tomb 5 ___ obstat 8 “Behold the ___ of God” (Jn 1:36) 9 ___ of reason 11 Catholic movie star Lemmon 13 Peter cut this off the soldier of the high priest 14 Breaks the eighth commandment 15 Title for a priest (abbr.)

16 Catholic actor Mineo 17 The ___ Heart of Mary 20 He knocked down the Philistine temple 22 Partner of Damian 27 What some angels are 28 Congregational initials 29 Ark passenger 30 “Dies ___” 32 ___ Rho 33 Wife of Tobit 35 There have been 13 popes with this name 36 Hosea, in the Douay 37 Land with a cavalry in Ezekiel 38 “And I will ___ you up on eagle’s wings”

OUR DIOCESE

Crossword Puzzle

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Jesus wants John to baptize him in the river Jordan

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service John the Baptist was preaching in the desert of Judea.

He wore clothing made of camel's hair and a belt. And all he ate was locust and wild honey.

“Repent, for the kingdom of heaven is at hand!” he cried to all who would listen.

John’s preaching fulfilled a prophesy about the coming of the Messiah that can be found in the Old Testament book of Isaiah: “A voice of one crying out in the desert, ‘Prepare the way of the Lord, make straight his paths.’”

People from Jerusalem and all over Judea traveled to the desert to visit John. The people would confess their sins, and John would baptize them in the Jordan River.

Sometimes, the Pharisees and Sadducees would come to the baptism.

This angered John.

“You brood of vipers! Who warned you to flee from the coming

wrath?” John asked. “Produce good fruit as evidence of your repentance. ... Even now the ax lies at the root of the trees. Therefore every tree that does not bear good fruit will be cut down and thrown into the fire.”

John also said that he was not the only person who would be administering baptism to the people.

“I am baptizing you with water, for repentance, but the one who is coming after me is mightier than I,” he said. "I am not worthy to carry his sandals. He will baptize you with the Holy Spirit and fire. His winnowing fan is in his hand. He will clear his threshing floor and gather his wheat into his barn, but the chaff he will burn with unquenchable fire.”

One day, Jesus went into the desert to visit John and to be baptized by him.

John was surprised.

“I need to be baptized by you, and yet you are coming to me?” he exclaimed.

Jesus looked at John.

“Allow it now, for thus it is fitting for us to fulfill all righteousness,” Jesus said.

John then agreed to baptize Jesus.

When Jesus came up from the water, the heavens opened, and the Spirit of God descended like a dove and came upon him.

Then a voice from heaven could be heard.

“This is my beloved Son, with whom I am well pleased,” the voice said.

READ MORE ABOUT IT: Matthew 3 Q&A: 1. Who was baptizing people in the Jordan River?

2. What did Jesus want John to do?

PUZZLE: Match the quotation about repentance with the Scripture passage from which it came. Write the chapter and verse on the blank after the quotation.

2 Pt 3:9

Prv 28:13

Rv 3:19

Acts 3:19

1. "Those who conceal their sins do not prosper, but those who confess and forsake them obtain mercy." __________ 2. "He is patient with you, not wishing that any should perish but that all should come to repentance." __________ 3. "Repent, therefore, and be converted, that your sins may be wiped away." __________ 4. "Those whom I love, I reprove and chastise. Be earnest, therefore, and repent." __________ Puzzle Answer: 1. Prv 28:13; 2. 2 Pt 3:9; 3. Acts 3:19; 4. Rv 3:19

"I need to be baptized by you and yet you are coming to me?" he exlaimed.

— CNS Artwork

JANUARY 9, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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Jan. 5, 4 p.m.— All are invited to attend a Holy Hour with Rosary and Benediction to pray for priests and vocations on the first Sunday of the month at the Carmelite Monastery, 26 Harmony School Road, Flemington.

Jan. 26, 3 p.m. — The Sacred Heart Parish Music Ministry will host its annual concert “A Little of This and A Little of That” at Sacred Heart Church, 149 South Plainfield Ave, South Plainfield. The concert will feature the Adult and Children’s choirs along with a youth and intergenerational handbell choirs performing sacred music and Broadway classics. A freewill offering will be taken at the door. For more information contact Dan Mahoney at (908) 756-0633, extension 139.

Jan. 13, 7 p.m. — Our Lady of Victories Parish, Sayreville, will hold a Mass and healing service. The celebrant will be Father John Campoli, director of His Love Ministries. Individual healing prayers will be given following Mass. All are welcome. For information, call or e-mail Marilyn (732) 991-7379/mfarrell517@ aol.com or visit www.frjohncampoli.com

Concert

Fun and Games

Jan. 25, 6:30 p.m. — Our Lady of Peace Knights of Columbus Council 9199 of Fords is sponsoring “Trivia Night III.” A night of fun, questions and answers will begin at 6:30PM at the OLP Parish Center on Franklin St., Edison. Cost is $20 and includes admission, a sub sandwich, chips and a soft drink. Coffee, tea and desserts are also available. BYOB (beer & wine only). Reservations are requested for teams of six. For more information, call Emil Ferlicchi at (732) 261-8280 or Jim Burke at (732) 236-7356.

Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Piscataway, will hold a Holy Hour for Religious Freedom and Persecuted Christians every Sunday at 7 p.m., in the Eucharistic Adoration Chapel, 50 Van Winkle Place, Piscataway.

Participants are invited to silently pray the Rosary and special prayers for the intentions of Christians worldwide who are being persecuted for their faith. For information, call Becky at (703) 625-5388.

Parish of the Visitation, St. Mary of Mount Virgin Worship Site, New Brunswick, invites all to come and recite The Scriptural Rosary, every Sunday, 7 to 7:30 p.m. in Visitation Chapel. The Scriptural Rosary is a modern version of the way the Rosary was prayed throughout Western Christendom in the late Middle Ages. Materials will be provided. For information, call (732) 545-5090.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Metuchen is offering Counseling and wellness Services. If you or someone you know needs counseling or is impacted by addiction, we can help. Individual and family therapy for children and adults is available. For an appointment, call (800) 655-9491.

Jan. 23, 7 to 9 p.m. — Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer, Watchung, will present a men’s group entitled “Man to Man.” The evening will feature life affirming discussion and prayer to find God in your life and how to make a difference in the world. A free-will offering will be collected. For information, call (908) 753-2091 or visit www.msmhope.org.

Jan. 26, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. — New Jersey Blood Services will hold a blood drive at Our Lady of the Mount Church, 167 Mount Bethel Road, Warren. Walk-ins welcome. To schedule an appointment, visit: tinyurl.com/GiveBloodNJBS Sponsor Code: 08726. 16 year olds must have signed NJBS Parental Consent Form. If over 70 years old, please have your doctor’s permission. Remember to eat, drink and bring your Donor ID card. For more information:https://nybloodcenter.org/ donate-blood/be-holiday-hero-patients/

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

Blood Drive

Jan. 23, 2 to 8 p.m. — New Jersey Blood Services will hold a blood drive in Desmond Hall at Most Holy Redeemer Parish, 133 Amboy Road, Matawan. Those

N E E A G E R L I E M A C U U T N U K S E N G E R A E I L E N G R

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www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

The Militia of the Immaculata Prayer Village will meet on the First Saturday of every month after the 9 a.m. Mass at St. Patrick Parish, Belvidere. Come and learn about St. Maximilian Kobe, pray the Rosary and consider consecrating yourself to Mary. For details, email mivillagebelvidere@gmail.com.

Special Programs

Jan. 11, noon to 2 p.m. — St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Old Bridge, is offering a monthly soup kitchen in the school auditorium. For information contact, Mary Anne Donoghue, tdmaatwest@optonline.net or Chris Doyle, cdoyle167@optimum.net.

Jan. 24-26 — Worldwide Marriage Encounter of Central New Jersey will present a weekend of enrichment. The weekend will give you time and tools to revitalize romance, communication and spirituality in your marriage. Space is limited. For cost and location, call (732) 904-9636 or visit www.aweekendforyourmarriage.org.

Bus Trips

Jan. 24, 7 a.m. — St. Ambrose Council, Knights of Columbus, Old Bridge and Immaculate Conception Council, Knights of Columbus, Spotswood, is sponsoring a free bus trip to the March for Life in Washington, DC. The bus will leave from St. Ambrose Parish, Old Bridge. Reservations are first come first serve basis. For reservations, call (732) 679-5666 or (732) 251-3110.

Support Programs

The Diocese of Metuchen Family Life Office sponsors Courage, an apostolate of the Catholic Church that ministers to those with same-sex attractions. The spiritual support

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JANUARY 9, 2020

Jan. 26, 3:30 p.m. — The Music Ministry of Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 390 Route 523, Whitehouse Station, will present a concert of sacred music under the direction of James Cole. The Adult Choir, Children’s Choir, Handbell Choirs and Chamber Orchestra will perform a program of music from across the liturgical year. Music of Rutter, Mendelssohn, Wilberg, Schalk, Martin Shaw, Vivaldi and others will be performed. There will be a free-will offering to benefit the Music Ministry, and light refreshments after the concert. For more information, call (908) 534-2319 x19, or email music@ollwhs.org.

Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Piscataway, will hold a Holy Hour of Prayer for the Dying every Thursday from 3 to 4 p.m. in the church. Come and pray for those who are dying, especially those who die suddenly and unprepared to enter eternal life. For information, call (732) 968-5555.

RATES

The Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament, Raritan, will celebrate a sung Mass every Sunday at 11 a.m. in the Extraordinary Form of the Roman Rite in Latin. The Mass is celebrated according to the 1962 Missal in compliance with the “Summorum Pontificum.” For details, call the Shrine Rectory Office, (908) 300-8167.

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OUR DIOCESE

Prayer and Worship

group assists those with same-sex attractions to live chaste lives in fellowship, truth and love. For information about the ministry, meeting times and location, call the Family Life office, (732) 562-2476. All calls are confidential.

19

AROUND THE DIOCESE

20 OUR DIOCESE

DIOCESAN EVENTS January

Eucharistic Adoration is now being held in the chapel at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway. Adorers and intercessors are needed Monday through Friday 9 to 11:45 a.m. Daily Mass is held at 11:45 a.m. For information or to volunteer, call Laura Riccardi, (609) 578-0841. To submit a prayer request, call (732) 765-6445.

JANUARY 9, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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

1/12

Holy Hour for Priests, Office for Priest Personnel, 3 p.m. St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway. All are welcome. For information, email priest.personnel@ diometuchen.org.

1/15

Adult Enrichment Classes, Office of Adult Faith Formation, Wednesdays, 10 to 11:30 a.m., St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway. The instructor will be Father Glenn Comandini, S.T.D. The topic will be “Apologetics of the Catholic Faith.” Reading assignments will be from “The Catechism of the Catholic Church.” There is no fee. Registration is required. To register, call Angela, (732) 562-1543.

1/19

Annual Diocesan Respect Life Mass & Pro-Vita Awards, Office of Human Life and Dignity, noon, Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, the celebrant will be Bishop James F. Checchio. The Bishop will present the 2020 “Pro-Vita” award.

A reception will be held after Mass. All are welcome to attend. For details, call 732-562-1543 or email amarshall@diometuchen.org.

1/21

PCL Round Table, Office of Discipleship Formation for Children, 9:30 a.m. St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway. The discussion is for Parish Catechetical Leaders to gather as a whole and share with each other. To register, call Katie Battle, (732) 243-4575 or email kbattle@diometuchen.org by Jan. 14.

1/23

Bus Trip for the Rally for Life in Trenton, Office of Human Life and Dignity, 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m., bus will depart from the S. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway.

Passengers will attend a small reception afterwards. Seats are limited. For questions or reservations, email amarshall@diometuchen.org or call 732-562-1543.

1/24

2020 Call to Action Day, Office of Human Life and Dignity. Everyone is urged to call their New Jersey State Legislators to ask them for a response to the 120,000 postcards mailed to them urging them to pass the “Pain-Capable Unborn Child Protection Act.” For a listing of legislators and a sample phone message, visit http:// babiesinthewombfeelpain.com.

1/24

March for Life Washington, DC, Office of Human Dignity. Parishes throughout the Diocese of Metuchen will provide buses to attended the Rally. For a complete list, visit www.diometuchen.org or call 732-562-1543.

February 2/8

Diocesan Youth Day 2020, Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, 1 to 9 p.m., Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen. The theme is “You are Courageously Loved.”

Youth day is open to students in grades 8-12. The day will include Mass, presentations, break-out sessions, adoration and confession. Dinner will be provided. Group registration only. For information, call (732) 243-4575.

2/9

Holy Hour for Priests, Office for Priest Personnel, 3 p.m. St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway. All are welcome. For information, email priest.personnel@ diometuchen.org.

2/21-23 Retrouvaille, Office of Family Life. Retrouvaille is a lifeline to help couples heal and renew their marriages. The program consists of a weekend experience for married couples and six follow-up sessions. No group discussions. For details, call Rich Colasuonno, (732) 236-0671 or Annette Colasuonno, (732)672-0748 or email, 3024@ retrouvaille.org.