July 22, 2021 by The Catholic Spirit

Newly-ordained transitional deacon, four priests share journeys to diaconate, holy orders, 13-26

Spirit atholic C THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

JULY 22, 2021 • VOL. 26 NO. 6 • $2.00

Newly Ordained Bishop James F. Checchio, holding crozier, poses with, from left: Father Gregory J. Zannetti, Father Timothy M. Eck II, Transitional Deacon Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana, Father Ariel Robles Bautista Jr. and Father Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros after a Mass of ordination at the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Asbury. See stories on pages 20-21. — Mike Ehrmann photo

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St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park, assists ‘twin’ community in East Asia. . .3, 7 This issue was mailed on July 20 Your next issue will be August 19

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Jesus never forgot St. Joseph - his father on earth Editor’s Note: This issue of “The Catholic Spirit” focuses on our diocese’s ordinations. It was decided, therefore, to share the homily Bishop James F. Checchio gave at the ordination of our four new priests and transitional deacon.

Bishop James Checchio My brothers, Ariel, Greg, Jay, Tim, Ronal, your being ordained in the year of St. Joseph will be something you will always remember, and hopefully you will take on from this day forward an even more special bond with St. Joseph. As you know, from Dec. 8, 2020, until Dec. 8, 2021, Pope Francis has asked for St. Joseph’s special intercession for the whole Church in his apostolic letter, “With a Father’s heart.” The introductory line gives us very simply the identity of St. Joseph as it begins “With a father’s heart: that is how St. Joseph loved Jesus.” St. Joseph was given a father’s heart to love with the love of our Father in heaven, not only Jesus, but also Mary and all of us, God’s children. I was blessed to grow up with a heartfelt devotion to St. Joseph. Perhaps it was because my father took St. Joseph as a special patron since he and my mother adopted a sister into our family. The prayer to St. Joseph was one that was often prayed in our home. And the Sisters of Mercy at my elementary school always had us begin the rosary with a prayer to St. Joseph, which I still do every day. My love and admiration for St. Joseph has grown and changed over the years but it has been a constant admiration, and I have found him to be a worthy intercessor for so much of what a priest does each day to provide for the community entrusted to his pastoral and spiritual care. We know that a father is not just a sustainer of life or a maintenance man

taking care of his children’s needs, but on assignments and tasks that I felt unhe is called to make his life a sacrificial prepared for, unworthy of and never deoffering of love that provides life. We sired nor wanted. I looked to St. Joseph know that worthy fathers sacrifice their as the provider of the household for the own wants and needs for the good of Holy Family — the one who protected their children. These sacrifices are often and cared for them — but often in a very done in quiet, unseen ways. I’m sure hidden way. He was content to be in the many of our biological fathers here today background and to let Jesus and Mary can testify to this — happy father’s day receive the attention. Joseph for me is an to you all a day early! example of humble, selfless service, that How as priests we need to have this doesn’t seek recognition or reward. He same type of sacrificial love in our lives may not be remembered by history books as we give up our own wants, desires, or even in the Scriptures very much, but wishes, to serve as and where the Church he is remembered by Jesus. And that’s needs us, not necessarily where I want, as what mattered to St. Joseph, that when celibate, prayerful, obeall was said and done, dient servants of Jesus. that Jesus would rememI was blessed to You solemnly promise to ber him with filial love grow up with a do this today, and we’re and affection; in the end, all grateful for that. heartfelt devotion to nothing else truly matters, St. Joseph readily no? let his life be re-oriented St. Joseph. Perhaps Jesus called out by God’s will over and “abba,” daddy, to Joseph it was because over again. That’s why for years before Our Lord he ends up becoming a my father took St. addressed it to His heavsaint! We heard about enly Father. Joseph taught Joseph as a special Jesus to say “abba.” And one of those times in our Gospel today. It was just patron since he and Jesus never forgot it. You a dream though, — how know of course, that long easy it would have been my mother adopted before any priest held for Joseph to ignore a sister into our fam- Jesus in His hands as He it and to do what he makes Him present in our wanted rather than what ily. The prayer to St. world in the Eucharist, God wanted. How easy Joseph held our Lord in to dismiss as fantasy or Joseph was one that his arms. Joseph for me wild dreaming such an was often prayed was and is an example of incredible destiny. But he priesthood — someone in our home. did choose it — and I adwho humbly, selflessly mired that — especially and obediently lived and when I was trying to have the courage to worked for the good of others and I knew respond to my own call to priesthood and I needed that as well, and still do. was feeling the movements of discernYes, we need to honor and rememment in my life. And there were certainly ber St. Joseph, we need his example in moments when I wanted an excuse not our lives, especially us priests, so it is to do God’s will. Joseph for me, was an good that Pope Francis called us to this example of openness and courage and so special year. Joseph is the Patron of the I always looked to him and prayed to him Church. As such, he continues to watch and hoped for those same qualities in my over, protect and provide for the Family response and life as a priest. of God, and we all need that now, very My admiration for St. Joseph deep- much. In addition, St. Joseph sees a bit of ened as a priest and now bishop as I took His Divine Son in each priest who is or-

Catholic Spirit

JULY 22, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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dained in persona Christi capits, ordained as another Christ the head, through this mysterious, sacred rite we will have in a few moments, so he sees us brothers, as his adopted sons too, and so he desires to provide and protect us as his sons, just as He did Jesus. We should never forget him, as he never tires of interceding for us. My brothers, you have heard a lot about spiritual fatherhood in your formation, and you men have prepared yourself well to take on this role today as four of you are ordained priests and one a deacon. If we desire to be true spiritual fathers, if we truly desire to become saints, and I know you do, then we need to take a cue, or maybe 20 cues, from the fatherhood of St. Joseph and his radical openness to allowing his life to be re-oriented by God’s will through listening to Him. St. Joseph — open to God’s word; St. Joseph — humble and selﬂess in service; St. Joseph — Husband of Mary and Patron of the Church, St. Joseph — our adopted father: Pray for us, intercede for us and inspire these men to be ordained today, as they are made over in the very image of your Divine Son, along with all the good and generous priests and deacons of this beautiful Diocese of Metuchen, to be spiritual fathers who learn from you and emulate you. May others come to know and call upon God as their Father, Abba, because of the example these men give, as we strive to live up to the title we bear — “Father.” God bless and keep you all in His love. With renewed best wishes, I remain Yours in Christ,

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

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Kendall Park parish supports ‘twin’ in Mongolia By Christina Leslie Correspondent The old adage “Charity begins at home” holds true, even when “home” is a land more than 6,000 miles away. St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park, reached out to its twin parish of Mary, the Mother of Mercy in Arvaikheer, Mongolia, this spring in a generous display of faith, sending the fledgling parish and its Ulaanbaatar Prefecture a donation of $15,000. The money will be used to complete a project to refurbish its fivestory headquarters’ offices, add guest rooms and build a new seminary. St. Augustine’s relationship with the Mongolian faith family was forged in 2018 with Pope Francis’ appoint-

ment of Archbishop Alfred Xuereb as Apostolic Nuncio in South Korea and Mongolia, two of the Church’s fastestgrowing areas. St. Augustine’s pastor, Father Robert G. Lynam, invited Archbishop Xuereb to concelebrate Mass, a liturgy even more blessed because of the presence of the archbishop’s extended family members. According to the website GCatholic.org, Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, is an apostolic prefecture, or a ‘pre-diocesan’ missionary jurisdiction not yet sufﬁciently developed for diocesan status. It is estimated that the region is host to roughly 1,317 Catholics, or less than one percent of its total population of more than three million people. Covering about 580,000 square miles, the prefecture contains eight parishes,

Last issue's image...

Above, Deacon Denis F. Mayer, center, of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park, and his wife, Carol (at his right), pose with clergy and members of Mary, the Mother of Mercy Parish, Arvaikheer, Mongolia, and its Ulaanbaatar Prefecture, during a pilgrimage to Mongolia to visit the sister parish in July 2019. Barbara Corio, a member of St. Augustine's, also made the pilgrimage.

Continued on page 7

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The image, which was featured on page 3 of the May issue of The Catholic Spirit, can be found at St. Jude Parish, Blairstown

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JULY 22, 2021

three missions, 25 priests and two seminarians to minister to the Catholic ﬂock. In July 2019, Deacon Denis F. Mayer, who exercises his ministry at St. Augustine’s, and parishioner Barbara Corio were members of a pilgrimage to Mongolia with the Consolata Fathers to visit their sister parish in Arvaikheer, a town near the Gobi Desert. The domed structure, known as a ger, was adorned with a homemade altar and cross, and the people’s smiling faces needed no translation. “It was just a baby Church,” recalled Father Lynam. “Their Catholic faith was just beginning.” Relationships between the two faith families continued to grow; even the students in St. Augustine School sent videos, pictures and gifts to their young counterparts. Once pastor of Mary, Mother of Mercy Parish and a member of the Consolata Fathers, Bishop Giorgio Marengo of the Apostolic Prefecture

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Some of the $15,000 donated by St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish will help refurbish offices in the Ulaanbaatar Prefecture's headquarters, add guest rooms and build a new seminary. — photos courtesy of Bishop Giorgio Marengo

OUR DIOCESE

Where in the diocese can it be found?

Image Week

Bishop’s Appointments

PERSPECTIVES

Bishop James F. Checchio recently announced the following assignments. Unless otherwise noted, all are effective July 1, 2021. Father Jun Joseph Alquiros has been assigned as parochial vicar at the Cathedral of St. Francis, Metuchen Father Ariel Bautista Jr. has been assigned as parochial vicar at Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale Father Timothy Eck II will continue his studies in Rome until his return in September, when he will be assigned as parochial vicar at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Skillman, during July and August Father Gregory Zannetti has been assigned as parochial vicar at St. James Parish, Basking Ridge Rev. Msgr. Robert Zamorski, rector of the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, is retiring and will live at Maria Regina Residence, Somerset Very Rev. Timothy Christy, Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia, in residence at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, has been appointed rector of the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. He will remain as Vicar General and Moderator of the Curia. Rev. Msgr. Terrance M. Lawler, pastor of St. Mary Parish, Alpha, is retiring and will live at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Martinsville Father Dawid Wejnerowski, parochial vicar at Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, has been assigned as administrator at St. Mary Parish, Alpha Father Wojciech Kusek, Redemptorists, parochial vicar at Sacred Heart Parish, South Amboy, has been appointed as administrator of St. Joseph Parish, North Plainfield Father John Pringle, administrator of St. Joseph Parish, North Plainfield, is retiring and will live at Maria Regina Residence, Somerset Rev. Maciej Melaniuk, senior priest at Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish, South Plainfield, is retiring Father Kenneth Kolibas, parochial vicar at St. James Parish, Jamesburg, will live at Our Lady of Peace Parish, North Brunswick, and serve as chaplain at Parker at Somerset Father Michael Crummy, in residence at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Milltown, was chaplain at Parker at Somerset, but will now be chaplain at RWJ Barnabas University Hospital, New Brunswick Father Pauly Thekkan, in residence at Our Lady of Peace Parish, North Brunswick, was chaplain at RWJ Barnabas, New Brunswick, and is now the chaplain at RWJ Barnabas, Somerset, and will live at St. Joseph Parish, Bound Brook Father Peter Akkanath Chakkunny, Carmelites of Mary Immaculate, in residence at Immaculate Conception Parish, Spotswood, will live at St. James Parish, Jamesburg, and remain as chaplain at Penn Medicine Princeton Health Father Lukasz Blicharski, parochial vicar, St. Joseph Parish, Bound Brook, has been assigned as parochial vicar at Sacred Heart Parish, South Amboy Rev. Msgr. Seamus Brennan, senior priest at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Martinsville, will serve as senior priest at St. Matthias Parish, Somerset Rev. Msgr. Joseph M. Curry, parochial vicar at, St. Matthias Parish, Somerset, has been assigned as parochial vicar at Immaculate Conception Parish, Somerville, effective July 6 Father Pawel Michalowski, Salesians of St. John Bosco, parochial vicar at Immaculate Conception Parish, Somerville, has been appointed parochial vicar at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Martinsville Father Roy Quesea, on leave, will live at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, and serve as secretary to Bishop James F, Checchio, and Vice-Chancellor, effective Aug. 1 Father Leopoldo Salvania, parochial vicar at St. James Parish, Basking Ridge, has been appointed parochial vicar at Our Lady of Victories Parish, Sayreville Father Michael Tabernero, parochial vicar at Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale, will live at Parish of the Visitation, New Brunswick, and work in campus ministry and teach at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, effective July 6 Father James Tucker, parochial vicar at St. Mary Parish, Alpha, has been assigned as parochial vicar at Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords, effective Aug. 1 Father Dario Endiape, parochial vicar, Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords, will no longer exercise his ministry in the diocese, effective Aug. 1 Father Louis Couvillion, Brothers of the Sacred Heart, of Metuchen, is retiring Change, St. Joseph Parish, 55 High Street, Carteret, NJ 07008, to St. Joseph Parish, 7 Locust Street, Carteret, NJ 07008

Keep ‘toxic’ relationships out of reach at home, work Body & Soul

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD Two weeks ago in the Sunday Gospel, Jesus instructs the Apostles that if they are not welcomed wherever they go, they should “shake the dust from their sandals” and leave that place. The Lord’s instruction that the disciples should leave the place where they are not welcomed makes perfectly good sense and follows Jesus’ teaching that we have dignity and should never surrender that God-given trait, even if it seems the only way to win peace or harmony. This is an important lesson for those of us who suffer verbal, physical or emotional abuse at the hands of our employers, neighbors or even certain relatives — just for the sake of keeping our jobs, a calm neighborhood or peace

How to report abuse

in the family. Well, such a stance is not in keeping with the biblical Jesus. This notion that we should put up with people’s disrespectful behavior at any cost is not the response warranted; instead, we should avoid hostile or abusive people. And, we should also be mindful of individuals who pass themselves off as our “friends,” but, in all honesty, are just using us in a codependent fashion in order to elicit a compassionate ear as they vent their frustrations, or to make us assume the position of an enabler and/or rescuer. Such relationships are not healthy — in fact, they prevent congruity and can mushroom into what therapists refer to as symbiotic relationships — in other words, two unhealthy individuals no longer relate to each other as they should, rather, they feed off each other for whatever they lack. Then, there are those who are related to us by work, school or blood — and who, for one reason or another, just don’t like us. As with friends, so with relatives,

If you were sexually abused by a member of the clergy or anyone representing the Catholic Church, or you know of someone who was, you are encouraged to report that abuse to local law enforcement, the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency at 1-877-NJ ABUSE (652-2873) or 1-800-835-5510 (TTY/TDD for the deaf), and also the Diocesan Response Officer at (908) 930-4558 (24 hours/7 days a week).

we should treat them the way that we gives suffering meaning and builds on would want to be treated; however, if the redemptive mission began by Jesus. they are rude, crass, abrasive, offensive But suffering which is destructive, as or, in a word, destructive to our ego, in the case of toxic relationships — this, my friends, serves our spirit, or even the climate of our home, our And while Jesus sum- no purpose. It takes a toll on our bodies and ofﬁce, our school, then mons us in another our minds — leaving us we should consider these broken, wounded to be “toxic” relationsection of the Gospel hurt, and incapable of recogships. In other words, no good can come from to offer our persecu- nizing our God-given dignity. these, they are “poitors our right cheek God wants us to be sonous,” and like any poison, we should keep when they slap the healthy people so that we can actualize our such relationships out of our reach. They are left, how long should potential in building his not good for us. They the slapping continue kingdom. It follows then that God also wants us are not healthy relationships. And while Jesus before we realize that to have a healthy selfesteem — and if that summons us in another section of the Gospel to Jesus doesn’t want us requires staying away offer our persecutors our to suffer needlessly from those who do not welcome us, that is to right cheek when they in any individual or say, they do not treat us slap the left, how long with dignity and respect should the slapping congroup dynamics? — then that’s what we tinue before we realize should do, without guilt, that Jesus doesn’t want us to suffer needlessly in any individual without looking back, with both cheeks or group dynamics? Must we wait be- in tac! Should we resort to violence? fore we resemble a Sharpei from people No. Should we retaliate? No. Should slapping us until we wake up and real- we wish them ill? No. Just shake the ize that we don’t deserve such abuse? dust from your sandals, walk away and Redemptive suffering, such as offering leave the rest to Jesus! Father Comandini is managing our pain from arthritis for the poor souls in purgatory is constructive — it editor of “The Catholic Spirit”

WASHINGTON — As the nation struggles to fight a pandemic and address social strife and racial injustice, the Catholic media have the important task of presenting news truthfully and in light of the Gospel values taught by the Church, Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory of Washington told Catholic media professionals June 9. “Our Catholic communications community has to realize that not only are they people who have to get the truth, the stories [and] the facts out there, but they have to wed it to the truth of the Gospel,” Cardinal Gregory said. The cardinal spoke on communicating Catholic unity and the gift of diversity in a video dialogue with Paula Gwynn Grant, the secretary of communications for the Archdiocese of Washington and a member of the Catholic Media Association’s board of directors. The talk was presented during the CMA’s annual Catholic Media Conference, held virtually for the second

Washington Cardinal Wilton D. Gregory is interviewed by Paula Gwynn Grant, secretary of communications for the Archdiocese of Washington, during a June 9 videotaped presentation for the annual conference of the Catholic Media Association. The Catholic Media Conference was held virtually June 8-10. —CNS screen capture/Andrew Biraj, Catholic Standard

year in a row due to the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. The cardinal said the CMA “is not just an association of professionals” but “an association of professionals who believe. It’s not so much just making sure you get the story right, that’s a principal activity, but it’s a matter of getting the story right and bringing into the story the fact that we are a resilient people, we are people on a journey that leads us, summons us, to Christ Jesus and summons us together,” Cardinal Gregory said.

Thousands take refuge in churches amidst strife

Compiled from the Catholic News Service

USCCB president echoes pope’s directive on unity

WORLD & NATION

Cardinal Gregory discusses Catholic media’s task

WORLD & NATION

Archbishop José H. Gomez of Los Angeles, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, speaks at the USCCB headquarters in Washington during the opening of bishops’ three-day virtual spring meeting June 16. — CNS photo/CNS photo/Bob Roller

WASHINGTON — The president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic bishops urged unity in an address June 16, the first day of the prelates’ three-day spring plenary assembly, held virtually because of the ongoing COVID-19 pandemic. “I know we all hope this will be the last time we are forced to gather virtually,” said Los Angeles Archbishop José H. Gomez. Recalling the chaos of the pandemic, including lockdowns that shut down churches, social unrest and division and “maybe the most polarized election our country has ever seen,” Archbishop Gomez turned attention to

Pope Francis’ directive: “the importance of unity — not only among peoples, but also unity within the Church.” “Even with the lockdowns ending, our neighbors are still struggling,” he said in a prerecorded speech. “They’ve lost loved ones and livelihoods. Many have lost confidence in God and hope for the future. After being isolated for months, some have grown distrustful of our leaders and institutions.” All the events of the past year or so, he said, will shape the vision of the Church “for years to come.” That’s why unity is important, he added.

Priest slain in crossfire from drug cartel members

— CNS photo/Reuters

less of religion and race. In Loikaw Diocese in Kayah, thousands of people are still sheltering at churches and convents; displaced people view them as safe, said Father Francis Soe Naing, diocesan chancellor. However, some people had to flee into the jungles when three churches were shelled by the military. “We are arranging a safe sanctuary for those who are in the jungles by building a temporary camp in the seminary in Loikaw,” Father Soe Naing told ucanews.com.

Franciscan Father Juan Antonio Orozco, 33, pictured swinging a censer in an undated photo, was killed by gunfire June 12 on his way to celebrate Mass and provide sacraments in a rural Mexican village with drug cartel conflicts. — CNS photo/Facebook

public security issues. “The death of our parish priest shocks us greatly,” said a statement on Santa Lucía de la Sierra parish Facebook page.

JULY 22, 2021

YANGON, Myanmar — Thousands of people have taken refuge in churches and convents as Myanmar’s military continues to fight local resistance forces. Ucanews.com reported Catholic and other Christian churches have become the main refuge for thousands of people forced to flee from their homes during conflict in Kayah, Chin, Kachin and Shan states. Churches and convents have opened their doors to fleeing civilians, especially the elderly, children, women, the sick and disabled, regard-

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

People displaced by fighting in northwestern Myanmar eat at a shelter in Chin state May 31. Thousands of people have taken refuge in churches and convents as Myanmar’s military continues to fight local resistance forces.

MEXICO CITY — A Franciscan priest was killed in a hail of gunfire on his way to celebrate Mass and provide sacraments in a rural Mexican village known for drug cartel conflicts. Father Juan Antonio Orozco, 33, was struck June 12 in the late morning as he drove in a rural region of western Durango state, where “he entered the crossfire of two groups fighting” over the Durango to Zacatecas highway,” Bishop Luis Flores Calzada of Tepic said in a brief social media post. The bishop included a photo of the victim, appearing to wear white robes, lying in front of a red pickup that identified the Franciscans’ parish ministry. The truck had several bullet holes. Franciscan Father Gilberto Hernández, spokesman for the Order of Friars Minor, said the slain priest had traveled to celebrate Mass in a rural village. Father Orozco was one of three Franciscan priests serving the Santa Lucía de la Sierra parish in a rugged and isolated part of Zacatecas state. The spokesman said no threats against Father Orozco had been made, even though the region has

6 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JULY 22, 2021

Young parishioners use technological expertise to broadcast Mass By Megan Vantslot The teenagers of today, otherwise known as Generation Z, are considered digital natives. They were born in the era of smartphones and are creative, innovative, and entrepreneurial. They are present in our Church. At parishes in the diocese, this generation has been stepping up, sharing their technological gifts and helping their churches broadcast liturgies via Livestream. One of these parishes is Our Lady of Fatima in Perth Amboy. Gerard Martinez, coordinator of Livestream ministry at the parish, started a Livestream group in response to the COVID-19 or coronavirus pandemic in the summer of 2020. When he began the group, he wanted the viewer to have an “experience of a true encounter with Jesus through a Eucharistic embrace over the Internet.” “The group tries to project the full experience of Mass,” he continued. Not just point a camera and shoot for the sake of getting by.” Martinez went on to explain that they “try to ensure that all members of the livestream group have a disposition and consciousness that it is truly Jesus in the altar that comes before us.” Among the members behind the camera is Karlymar Rivera-Colon, 13,

Left, Karlymar Rivera-Colon (center), 13, a member of the Livestream Ministry at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Perth Amboy, broadcasts a Mass. Watching her are her brother, Yadiel, 15, who plays the guitar at Mass, and her mother, Marines Colon. Our Lady of Fatima is one of the parishes in the diocese where teens, known as Generation Z, have been sharing their technological gifts to help parishes broadcast liturgies via Livestream. Below is a view of Our Lady of Fatima’s broadcast room. Marines said it is her greatest experience as a mother to see her teens more active in church activities, experience commitment with the ministry and build their sense of responsibility. — Bernadette Velez photos

who records on Sundays as well as the 7 a.m. Mass three days a week while her mother, Marines Colon, sings and brother Yadiel plays the guitar for the liturgy. Reflecting on her experience, Karlymar said, “I feel like during this pandemic and with the Livestream Ministry, I have grown with faith a lot because I have been going to church more often than I used to. Now I can see the consecration, how it’s like up close. I’ve been praying more often as well. And I feel the pres-

ence of Jesus.” Yadiel, 15, said that recording Mass and sharing his gift of playing the guitar helped him to grow in faith by being more involved in the church. “I used to just attend Sunday Mass,” he said, “but now I attend it almost every day and receive the word of the Lord almost daily. It has helped me get closer to God.” Their mother, Marines Colon, supports her children in livestream. “As a mother, my greatest experience is to see my teens more active in church activities, experience commitment within the ministry and build their sense of responsibility. The kids have been more into it and they feel they are responsible for something great,” she asserted. Youseff Diaz, 15, who records on Sundays, said, “Joining the Livestream ministry has helped me grow in my faith by seeing how the Mass and what our Father says can be spread through the livestream.” Another group member, Albert Suriel, 19, who also records on Sundays, said he, too, grew in his faith as a result of the invitation into this ministry. “Within the last months, I learned the meaning of Mass and how important each section of the ceremony is to our Lord and Savior,” he said. “I love helping people and being part of this ministry. It just helps me realize that I have more to give to my community. I know this is what God wants me to do. I had the opportunity to learn how to pray better because I found myself in the church more often. I just took the time to improve my prayer and relationship with God. He’s been my friend all along and I

know that with him I’ll accomplish many things. “I’m just glad that I agreed to be part of this ministry because I’m having fun and spending time with God.” The gift of livestreamed Masses made the darkest months of the pandemic sweeter for so many. The teens of this Perth Amboy parish played a huge role in that for their church. Now, as livestreams are winding down, and the horizon of a more “normal” tomorrow is in sight, we have an opportunity to learn from the beauty of making invitations to our young people to share their gifts with our Church. I invite you to reflect on who the young people in your circle are, and ask yourself these questions: How can I better seek to recognize the gifts of this younger generation? How can I invite them to share these gifts with our Church? What would it look like for me to engage with them, seeing their potential, and being creative in the way that I invite them to share the things that they are most comfortable with and passionate about? How else can I affirm this generation of their goodness, talent, and place in our local Church here in Metuchen and in the world? Recognizing the gifting of the youth in our churches is vitally important. Even after the pandemic, this is the call for each one of us: we must continue asking opinions, listening to perspectives, identifying gifts, making creative invitations, and accompanying our young people on their journeys with the Lord. Megan Vantslot is director, diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry

shared his concerns about the growing Church of Mongolia in a May 12 letter to Father Lynam. “The Catholic Church is, in effect, a ‘little flock,’ which seeks to deepen in faith and make it bear fruit in solidarity and promotion of the values of the Kingdom, in constant dialogue with the faithful of other religious traditions and with people of good will,” Bishop Marengo wrote. The bishop requested a donation from St. Augustine’s to renovate the prefecture’s 26-year-old headquarters, create new offices and guest rooms, and, most important for their future, to set aside space to begin formation of any seminarians they might enroll. “As you may have guessed, the need for local clergy is absolutely of prime importance, precisely to grow in an ever-greater sense of ‘diocesanity’ and hope for a real rootedness of the faith,” Bishop Marengo wrote. “We would like to prepare ourselves to welcome the young people whom the Holy Spirit will raise up.” The parish’s donation of $15,000 came from money raised by its Outreach Ministries; St. Augustine’s generosity amounts to roughly $60,000 in donations from the St. Vincent de Paul and other committees annually, Father

Lynam reports. A wire transfer completed, and with funds in hand to complete the project, Bishop Marengo’s jubilant response arrived in a May 31 missive. Father Lynam shared pictures of the modern, four-story building primed for renovation thanks to the parish’s help, and said, “We have a spiritual relationship with Bishop Giorgio and want to build up the Church in more formal ways.” He added, “It is a natural response to evangelization of this ‘baby Church,’ growing day by day, and we are happy to be part of spreading the Gospel.”

OUR DIOCESE

Continued from page 3

Deacon Denis F. Mayer of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park (back row holding frame), poses with then-Father, now Bishop Giorgio Marengo (center) and members of its twin parish, Mary, the Mother of Mercy in Arvaikheer, Mongolia at the community’s ger or church (also at left) in July 2019. St. Augustine donated $15,000 to the parish and its Ulaanbaatar Prefecture to refurbish offices and build a new seminary. — photos courtesy of Bishop Giorgio Marengo

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8 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JULY 22, 2021

Middle school students offer solution to pandemic waste problem By Rosemarie Davis Correspondent WOODBRIDGE — Since the beginning of the COVID-19 or coronavirus pandemic in 2020, approximately 1.5 billion disposable masks have been thrown away. Many of the masks can be seen on roads, in parking lots and parks, and floating in waterways. In addition to the visible pollution issue, the masks can cause the spread of disease and they pose a risk to wildlife that can become entangled or ingest them. This and other environmental hazards were highlighted by middle school students at the St. James Middle School Science Fair May 18. The fair’s focus was the environment and the challenges that threaten the health and well-being of the planet and its inhabitants. Science teacher Maureen Jorgensen, who selected the theme, said, “Student projects demonstrated topics such as microplastics in water, nonpoint source pollution, noise pollution, oil spills, acid rain, and recycling and composting.” Student groups were tasked with researching their topics, designing proposed solutions and then instructing the younger students who attended the fair about their subject. “The younger children enjoyed participating in the hands-on projects while they learned important lessons about taking care of our planet,” Jorgensen added.

St James School places a strong emphasis on collaboration among students and across grades. With social distancing mandates and a focus globally on maintaining health by limiting social interaction, this became a challenge over the last year. Teachers and administrators had to think of creative ways to ensure a safe and productive learning experience while trying to encourage collaboration. The science fair relied heavily on teamwork. Principal Frances Comiskey was pleased with the results. “They [students] definitely displayed what they learned,” she said. “They definitely used their skills to communicate what they needed to communicate. They were very articulate.” Two groups of eighth-grade students focused on the effect that the pandemic has had on the environment in the disposal of surgical-type masks. One group focused on the statistics and impact related to them while the other designed a receptacle intended to properly dispose of the masks. “The two chambered container has a lid that can be sealed so that masks do not blow out in the wind,” Jorgenson explained. “One chamber is for the mask material itself, and the other is for ear strings and metal nose pieces. A pair of scissors is attached to the container so that the components of the mask can be separated easily.” The teachers and administration at St. James believe that the purpose of

Eighth-grade students at St. James School, Woodbridge, from left: Jonathan Estime, William Owens, Dominic Szczygiel, Brady Kennovin, and Ean Torres pose with their “Mask Trash Can.” – photo courtesy of Maureen Jorgensen education is to equip students to address real world problems. Jorgensen sees success when she looks at her middle school students. “They have demonstrated their ability to think critically and address problems that plague our world,” she stated. As Comiskey looks back over the last year, she sees how the obstacles that students and teachers faced brought out new strengths, particularly in the students. Remote learning posed issues especially when the Internet did not cooperate. “Before the pandemic, they would

be more frustrated when something didn’t work,” she said. “Now, they’re more likely to dig in and figure out why it doesn’t work. They learned that there is more than one way to do things.” Comiskey credits the teachers with instructing by example. “The teachers were always showing them that…everything doesn’t always work. We just have to keep trying to figure out how to make it work,” she said. “The Earth is in good hands as these students become adult citizens who have a strong sense of stewardship,” asserted Jorgensen.

On July 26, the Church celebrates the feast day of Saint Joachim and Saint Anne, the parents of the Blessed Virgin Mary and grandparents of Jesus. Their feast day is a celebration and reminder of the important work of educating children in the faith in the hope that one day, like Mary, they would also love God with all their hearts and remember to always say “yes” to His will. One of my favorite quotes says “Children are not a distraction from more important work. They are the most important work.” Though it may seem like our busy lives are telling us the opposite at times, the raising of children is one of the most important tasks the Lord has given parents. Raising them in the faith is even more important. As parents and grandparents, we bear a big responsibility to teach our young ones to love God. And how do we do that? By our living example of the way we love

God. We don’t do it through lectures and lessons, but through the way we live. Our children have been entrusted to us by God the Father and from our example, our children learn about God the Father’s love. We show them that God the Father loves them unconditionally by loving them unconditionally. We show them that God the Father is forgiving and merciful by showing them forgiveness and mercy. We show them that God the Father is joyful by showing them joy, especially by being joyful in things that relate to the faith. See a pattern here? Hearing this comparison completely changed my perspective on the importance of my role as a father of three. Not only do my children learn about virtue and morals from my example, but more importantly, from my example, they learn about who God is. I couldn’t have a more important task than that of raising my children! All parents have this responsibility. In parent saints like Saint Joachim and Saint Anne,

we see that raising children for God and loving them well (even when it may seem particularly challenging), is possible. Because this is such a big responsibility, it can seem like a daunting task, but it does not have to be. From the example of St. Therese of Lisieux, I have learned that if we do small things with great love, they can make all the difference. Here are some seemingly small, practical things we can do every day to raise our children for heaven: — Pray for them! — Prioritize going to Mass together every Sunday as a family — Say grace before meals — Have a prayer space in the house — Have images of Jesus, the Virgin Mary, and the saints around the house — Fellowship with like-minded families — Talk to them about the lives of the saints; they can be inspired by their examples —Take time to read Scripture with them — Pray the rosary together as a family

— Involve them in parish activities You’re not alone in this mission of raising children in the faith. You are invited to join hundreds of other families in your community as they strive to raise their families in the faith all while growing in their own spiritual lives. With this in mind, I invite you to get connected with your local church through “The Joy of Love & Family Conference Series.” The series is hosted by the Diocese of Metuchen in partnership with the other four Roman Catholic Dioceses in New Jersey. The virtual conference aims at providing resources and support to the micro church — the family — in their role as evangelizers and disciples in today’s society. For more information or to register in the “Joy of Love & Family Conference Series,” visit: https://lightingheartsonﬁre. org/joylovefamily Allan E. Caballero is director, diocesan Ofﬁce of Evangelization

OUR DIOCESE

By Allan Caballero

Raising children in faith most important role of grandparents, parents

Diocese-sponsored hospital once again receives prestigious honor

— photos courtesy of Saint Peter’s University Hospital

when we went home and had to leave him in the NICU, we logged into the camera from our TV, fell asleep watching him and woke up to his sweet face on our TV.” “U.S. News & World Report” introduced the Best Children’s Hospitals rankings in 2007 to help families of children with rare or life-threatening illnesses ﬁnd

the best medical care available. The rankings are the most comprehensive source of quality-related information on U.S. pediatric hospitals. The magazine’s Best Children’s Hospitals rankings rely on clinical data and on an annual survey of pediatric specialists. and compliance with best practices.

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ogy and lung surgery, and urology. “As a Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, we provide life-saving care with ready access to a full range of pediatric medical and surgical specialists on our team,” said Dr. Mark Hiatt, director of Saint Peter’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit and chief of the Division of Neonatal Medicine at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital. “This level of expertise gives parents peace of mind during a stressful time.” “The nurses in the NICU are top notch in every aspect,” said Ozana Stefano of Keyport, whose son, Oliver, was in Saint Peter’s Neonatal Intensive Care Unit for four days and is now a thriving four-yearold. “With our son being born at 35 weeks, there were a few scary moments, but Saint Peter’s helped us navigate through his stay in the NICU. There wasn’t a single moment where we felt Oliver wasn’t in the best hands, no matter what happened.” In addition to its expert clinical services, Saint Peter’s is the ﬁrst regional hospital in the metropolitan area to fully equip its Neonatal Intensive Care Unit (NICU) with live-streaming cameras that make it possible for parents to view their babies from a secure online portal. During the COVID-19 pandemic, this technology made it possible for families to stay safely connected with their babies in the NICU, even if they couldn’t be present in person. This technology makes it possible for families to bond with their baby from any computer or mobile device. Close friends and family members from out of town can also view the livestream. “Having our baby boy in the NICU was very new and nerve-wracking for us, but the staff at Saint Peter’s made it possible to stay connected to our little boy at all times through the camera setup where we could log in and see him any time we weren’t near him,” Stefano said. “In fact,

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

NEW BRUNSWICK — “U.S. News & World Report,” the global authority in hospital rankings and consumer advice, has ranked The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital among the top 50 hospitals in the nation in neonatology in the new 2021-22 Best Children’s Hospitals rankings recently published online. Saint Peter’s is the only New Jerseybased hospital to be recognized among the top 50 in this category for the third year in a row. “To be recognized yet again as one of the best healthcare facilities in the nation for neonatology is an incredible honor. Our highly trained physicians, nurses and staff consistently provide expert and compassionate care to our most fragile newborns,” said Dr. Bipin Patel, chairman of the Department of Pediatrics and physician-inchief at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital. “No parent expects to have their baby in the Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, but if that level of care is needed, you want it to be the best.” The 15th annual Best Children’s Hospitals rankings recognize the top 50 pediatric facilities across the U.S. in 10 pediatric specialties: cancer, cardiology and heart surgery, diabetes and endocrinology, gastroenterology and gastrointestinal surgery, neonatology, nephrology, neurology and neurosurgery, orthopedics, pulmonol-

10 OUR DIOCESE

Young men gather at diocese’s annual retreat to discern future paths WHERE ARE YOU GOING? The Latin translation for that phrase is Quo Vadis, which in the diocese is the name of the retreat for young men discerning their vocational calling in life. This year, St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, Bridgewater, hosted the retreat from June 22-24, which gave teens an opportunity to hear from priests and seminarians of the diocese, to learn about the journey to the priesthood and what to listen

for in the calling to the vocation. In his talk, Father Mauricio TaberaVasquez, diocesan vocation recruiter, spoke of the life of a priest, but he also stressed to the young men they needed to seek holiness ﬁrst; to live a holy life. Throughout the retreat there were opportunities for fellowship and on the last day of Quo Vadis, Bishop James F. Checchio celebrated Mass and met with the young men. In a post about Quo Vadis on the dioc-

esan Facebook page, Edward Garcia, commented, “The boys had a both a fun time and prayerful experience. Hard to attain

both, but the priests and seminarians who were a part of the retreat made it happen. We are deﬁnitely in for next year.”

Left, Bishop James F. Checchio speaks to participants of the annual Quo Vadis retreat for young men discerning their vocational calling in life at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, Bridgewater. Above, Bishop Checchio poses with the participants, clergy, seminarians and parish staff at the retreat. — Marlo Williamson photos

Diocese’s newspaper, communications ‘team’ earn CMA awards

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

This year “The Catholic Spirit” and the diocesan Office of Communications received awards at the annual Catholic Media Conference. Held virtually from June 8-10, the conference began with sessions featuring Vatican ofﬁcials, Bishop Robert Barron, and Cardinal Wilton Gregory of Washington, D.C. It concluded with the awards program which recognized the work of diocesan newspapers as well as authors, publishers, and media professionals who submitted their work published the previous year. For its Graduation supplement, published July 30, 2020, “The Catholic Spirit” earned a first-place award from the Catholic Media Association

(CMA). The 20-page special section not only featured stories of the Catholic high schools in the diocese, but also provided all of the Catholic schools an opportunity to celebrate their students. Many elementary schools included photos of their eighth grade graduates in ads, which included congratulatory messages and asked God to bless the Class of 2020. “We are very proud of all our schools and pleased the CMA chose to honor our diocesan newspaper’s tribute to our graduates,” stated Ellen Ayoub, superintendent, diocesan Ofﬁce of Schools. “The stories, listing of high school awards, and ads also served to promote our schools,” she added.

For her story on how Ozobots, miniature robots, helped St. Augustine of Canterbury School, Kendall Park, win a national award, Christina Leslie received a third-place award from the CMA. She explained in detail how the school’s third grade students, using computer coding and robotics programs, learned about immigrants who entered the United States through Ellis Island. Their work earned St. Augustine’s the “Today’s Catholic Teacher” magazine’s 2020 Innovations in Catholic Education Award for Technology Integration. . In its ﬁrst year submitting an entry to the CMA, the Ofﬁce of Communications received a third-place award for its initiative to produce the Diocese of Metuchen’s

Choices Matter Virtual Conference Series. “We are so proud of our Communications team, Tara Smith, director of the diocesan Office of Communications and Gerald Wutkowski Jr., assistant director of the office, for the work that they did to produce the Virtual Choices Matter Conference series!” said Jennifer Ruggiero who heads the diocesan Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life. “Because of the pandemic, creativity was needed in order to engage our target audience in a new and different way from previous years. The final product, which combined praise and worship music, prayer and thought-provoking testimonies and resources was very well received,” she added.

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11 OUR DIOCESE

3 years in a row... the only one in New Jersey

The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital’s Level IV Neonatal Intensive Care Unit, part of the state’s first designated Regional Perinatal Center, cares for nearly 1,000 infants born premature or with serious medical issues each year. For three years in a row this ranking has recognized the exceptional level of care provided for fragile newborns and validates why parents choose The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s.

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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12 OUR DIOCESE

Prayerful Processions Above and top left, in May clergy and members of Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Perth Amboy, led by Father Ron Machado, pastor, process between workshops at its worship sites — Holy Trinity and Our Lady of Hungary — in honor of Mary before stopping for a holy hour. In bottom left and middle left, clergy and members of St. John Paul II Parish, which includes Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima and St. Stephen worships sites, walk in a procession, then stop for adoration of the Blessed Sacrament led by by Consolata Father Slawomir Romanowski, administrator, on the feast of Corpus Christi, also known as the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. Below and bottom of page, on June 6, clergy and members of St. Ambrose Parish, Old Bridge, process from St. Ambrose Church with a monstrance holding the Eucharist, then adore the Blessed Sacrament led by Father John C. “Jack” Grimes (kneeling at center), pastor. A picnic followed. The activities were held to thank parishioners for their faithful support and prayers over the past year, and in the hope of welcoming a summer or good health and blessings.

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

— photos by Frank Wojciechowski and courtesy of St. John Paul II Parish and Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish

13 OUR DIOCESE

Holy Hour On June 18, the night before the Ordination Mass at the National Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Asbury, Bishop James F. Checchio led a Holy Hour for Vocations at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. Above are some of the priests and seminarians who joined the bishop in praying for vocations. In his remarks at the Holy Hour, the bishop noted that the Diocese of Metuchen has the most seminarians in more than 25 years. The Holy Hour was livestreamed on the Cathedral’s website. During the Holy Hour, the bishop blessed the chalices and patens of the four transitional deacons who were ordained the next day. At right the bishop is seen blessing the chalices assisted by Father Mauricio Tabera-Vasquez, director, diocesan Office of Vocations. Watching is Transitional Deacon Gregory Zannetti, who was ordained to the priesthood the next day. — Frank Wojciechowski photos

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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14 OUR DIOCESE

Faith Formation Members of St. Matthias Parish, Somerset, who attend middle school pose at a recent ServiceworX confirmation preparation program. ServiceworX is one of three core programs offered by the Center for FaithJustice for middle school, high school and college students. Center for FaithJustice developed the confirmation program with St. Matthias. The catechetical portion of the program is in keeping with the requirements of the parish, the Diocese of Metuchen and the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. The activities and programs that are a part of the confirmation preparation are done in a relational youth ministry model rather than a traditional classroom style setting. Skilled youth ministry staff facilitate prayer services, discussions and community service experiences at each program. ServiceworX staff members have received Virtus Protecting God’s Children Certification and have voluntarily participated in comprehensive background checks. — Marlo Williamson photo

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JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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Transitional Deacon Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana has traveled many hours to continue his studies at Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange. Almost a 9 hour flight from Colombia, South America, to be exact. With three siblings and his parents living in Colombia, he hesitantly accepted an invitation to continue his faith formation in the United States from diocesan vocational recruiter Father Mauricio Tabera-Vasquez, whom he befriended in his home country. “I didn’t want to come [to the U.S.],” he said about the initial difficulties of learning English. “It was another culture, another language, and at that point I hated English with all my heart.” Having only a high school competency level of the language, by reading his college textbooks in English, he eventually became fluent in his new language. “This is what the grace of God can do,” he said about learning English. “If you’re open to him, he will do that. You pray and he will give it to you.” In January 2018, Deacon Pastrana moved to the United States. He said adjusting to a new life was challenging and being away from his relatives contributed

to his uneasiness. He has not visited with then suggested that he might want to athis family for two years, but his determi- tend a vocational retreat, but his mother nation and passion for his vocation has preferred that he finish school before seen him through the tough transition. contemplating any future plans. “You have to adapt yourself and As a young adult, Deacon Pastrana try to incorporate your own Colombian attended Católica Del Norte Fundación culture to the new American culture,” he Universitaria and participated in a church said, “Being able to spend precious time Holy Hour each Thursday. It was there with the Lord, and specially consecrated that his pastor suggested he begin discernto him, is the most imporing for priesthood. tant thing in my life. The Although family ex“It takes time to Lord is your beloved. You pectations were for grandbe in a silent are there for him. He is children and a career, after there for you. That’s espefew months his parents moment, to be asupported cially very good for me.” his decision to When he made his open to the grace pursue his vocation. Fast first holy Communion at forward to his ordination of God, and God to the transitional diaconthe age of 14, which he described as a scary expewill answer your ate June 19 at the National rience, he worried about Blue Army Shrine, Asbury, longing, your making a mistake in front and his family was tuned of so many people. But to the livestream from yearning for the in receiving the Eucharist afar. His mom cried durfor the first time instantly ing the ceremony watching vocation.” changed him. her youngest child take his “From that point on, I vows. think God put something in my heart like Now serving at St. James Parish, a vocational seed,” he explains. Basking Ridge, the new deacon conducts The priest vestments and blessings baptisms, coordinates marriage preparabestowed on the congregation intrigued tions, preaches at Mass, and dedicates Deacon Pastrana as well. He joined a Le- his day off from school and a work study gion of Mary youth group, which helped program to read, hike, play soccer, or take foster his vocation, and enjoyed attend- a morning walk “to watch the sunrise.” ing Mass every day. His parochial vicar “I’m joyful. I laugh a lot,” he adds.

Congratulations to our new priests and deacon

Deacon Ronal Vega Pastrana We thank you for answering God’s call and assure you of our prayers.

As a bilingual religious, he is also eager to take advantage of that unique skill in the future and build relationships with the Catholic Hispanic community. He encourages others to consider a path of holiness by being conﬁdent in their desire to do so. “Don’t be afraid,” advised Deacon Pastrana. “Sometimes when we’re trying to ﬁnd the way, or good vocational discernment, we’re in a rush: ‘Okay, God, talk to me right now.’ “It takes time to be in a silent moment, to be open to the grace of God, and God will answer your longing, your yearning for the vocation.”

The Administration, Faculty, Staff, Seminarians and Students of Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology Congratulate the Ordinandi Reverend Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros Reverend Ariel Robles Bautista, Jr. Reverend Timothy Eck, II Reverend Gregory J. Zannetti Rev. Mr. Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana

Ad multos annos!

JULY 22, 2021

May God bless you in your future ministry.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Father Timothy Eck Father Gregory Zannetti Father Jun Joseph Alquiros Father Ariel Robles Bautista

ORDINATIONS

By Debra Miller Correspondent

First holy Communion may have planted seed of vocation in deacon

16 ORDINATIONS THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JULY 22, 2021

New priest loves being ‘bridge between God and his people’ By Christina Leslie Correspondent A Filipino-born, self-professed introvert with an analytical mind has put aside the certainty of accounting to take up a faith-filled mission of becoming a bridge builder between God and the people he will serve. A by-the-numbers look at the journey of Father Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros towards the priesthood reveals God’s equations sometimes lead to unexpected conclusions. Father Alquiros, 31, was born in Lucena City, Philippines, one of three children of Lutgardo and Angelina Alquiros. When he was a child, the family moved to New Jersey, where he attended St. Joseph Grammar School, Keyport. Relocating to the American south, he later graduated from Nathan B. Forrest High School (now Westside High School), Jacksonville, Fla. Father Alquiros earned a bachelor’s degree in accounting at the University of North Florida, Jacksonville. Over the next three years, he worked in accounting positions at companies in Philadelphia, New York City and Princeton before the self-professed introverted, analytical young man discerned it was time to pivot towards the priesthood.

“College friends, curious about vicar to the Cathedral of St. Francis of their faith, were open to ask me ques- Assisi, Metuchen. When asked about tions,” said Father Alquiros, who what aspect of the priesthood he most considered St. Ambrose Parish, Old looked forward to, Father Alquiros Bridge, his spiritual home. “Faith replied with joy, “Everything!” But can attract and make a mostly just being with “I got some insights the people.” conversation. I loved being a bridge between “I spent six years into this [life of a God and his people.” in the seminary,’ he With a supportive priest] in the seminary, continued, “and I family further reinsaw the people [at his forcing his decision, in but there will be many summer parish assign2015, the future priest daily responsibilities ments] once a week enrolled in Immaculate or over the weekend. Conception Seminary, like Communion calls Now I will see them Seton Hall University, day. I am lookand anointing the sick every South Orange, where ing forward to develhe earned a master’s in the hospital. I will oping a relationship of divinity degree. with them and bringing have to adapt to the them closer to Christ.” During his studies, which included SpanFather Alquiros is unpredictability.” ish language immercertain parish life will sion courses in Mexico be quite different than City, the transitional deacon exercised his days in the seminary, but rather his ministry at Holy Family Parish, than trepidation, that certainty brings New Brunswick; St. John Vianney him joy. Parish, Colonia; St. Bartholomew Par“Adapting to the daily life of a ish, East Brunswick, and Most Holy priest will be a challenge,” he admitName of Jesus Parish, Perth Amboy. ted. “I got some insights into this in Following his ordination to the seminary, but there will be many the priesthood by Bishop James F. daily responsibilities like Communion Checchio at the National Blue Army calls and anointing the sick in the Shrine, Asbury, June 19, Father hospital. I will have to adapt to the Alquiros was assigned as parochial unpredictability.”

His advice to a young man considering the priesthood echoes his own spiritual journey, focusing upon quiet contemplation. “Pray about it, go to daily Mass and spend time in Eucharistic adoration,” Father Alquiros said. “When you are alone in church, give God your worries and doubts and you can hear him in the silence.”

“I am happy and blessed,” said Father Ariel Robles Bautista Jr., reflecting on the beginning of his ministry to the people as a parish priest. The 28-year-old’s story spans two nations and more than a decade of faith culminating in his ordination by Bishop James F. Checchio at the National Blue Army Shrine, Asbury, June 19. Father Bautista was born in San Pablo City, Laguna, Philippines, the third of five children of Ariel and Lucia Bautista. When he was eight years old, his parents took an opportunity to improve the family’s future and moved to Flemington. Ariel remained in Southeast Asia with extended family. The youth first recognized his attraction of a life in the priesthood at age 11 or 12. He credits his parish priest, Father Severino “Rekto” Hernandez with offering good advice and mentoring as he ministered to his flock. Young Ariel’s fervor for the vocation he had chosen conquered his parents’ initial hesitancy about it, and he took the first steps along the path to a life of priestly service. After graduating high school from

De La Salle University, Lipa City, South Orange, where he earned a Batangas, Philippines, in 2009, Father master’s degree in divinity and pasBautista earned a degree in classical toral ministry. While a seminarian, philosophy at Our Lady of the Most he served summer assignments at his Holy Rosary Seminary, Lucban, Que- home parish in Flemington; St. Joseph zon, Philippines, and spent two years Parish, North Plainfield; Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Piscatat St. Alphonsus School away, and St. John Viof Theology, Lucena “I am most looking anney Parish, Colonia. City, Quezon. Though Father In 2018, Father forward to saying Bautista admitted he Bautista joined his Mass, hearing strives to adjust to parents in Flemington, attending Masses at American culture (“I confessions and their home parish — St. have only been in the Magdalen de Pazzi. He being the represen- U.S. for three years,” he credits two priests from apologizes), he is eager tative for Christ for to serve the people as the diocese with assisting him in his decision the parishioners, parochial vicar in rural Immaculate Conception to pursue the priestas well as helping Parish, Annandale, his hood: Father Gerardo priestly assignPaderon, pastor, Queenthem encounter first ship of Mary Parish, ment. Christ through the Plainsboro, who serves “I am most looking forward to saying Mass, as coordinator of the sacraments.” hearing confessions and diocesan Filipino Apostolate; and Father Jason being the representative for Christ for the Pavich, administrator, St. Peter the Apostle University and parishioners, as well as helping them Community Parish, New Brunswick, encounter Christ through the sacrathen director, diocesan Office of Vo- ments,” he said. “I will continue to pray for the people, and ask them to cations. Father Bautista enrolled at Im- pray for me. Prayer makes a differmaculate Conception Seminary School ence.” The new priest recommends those of Theology, Seton Hall University,

ORDINATIONS

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

Clergymen fostered new priest’s pursuit to serve faithful in diocese

considering the priesthood to enlist the help of a spiritual advisor, as well as the Blessed Mother, who helped her son Jesus during his childhood and ministry. “Start with your personal relationship with Jesus. Pray, ask for prayers,” Father Bautista said. “Develop a relationship with the Blessed Mother, who plays a maternal role with all priests. Mary knows our struggles and will guide us.”

St. John Vianney Parish Sends blessings to

Rev. Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros and

on their ordination to the holy priesthood. may god give you every grace and blessing as you continue to serve him and the church

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Rev. Ariel Robles Bautista Jr.

JULY 22, 2021

18 ORDINATIONS THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JULY 22, 2021

College’s Catholic community inspired student to seek priesthood By Teresa Murphy Correspondent While a college student, Father Timothy M. Eck II found that nothing in his life brought him more joy and peace than service projects and acts of charity through the Church – and realized that becoming a priest would allow him to spend his entire life doing what makes him happiest. At he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop James Checchio at the National Blue Army Shrine, Asbury, June 19, Father Eck said he felt “a great peace and a feeling of normalcy,” and a sense that he is where God wants him to be. The son of Timothy and Barbara Eck, Father Eck grew up in Blairstown. He and his two sisters attended Mass weekly with their father at St. Jude Church and celebrated some saints’ feast days at home. Barbara, a nondenominational Christian, was always supportive of the children being raised Catholic, and attended Mass with them on holidays and some Sundays. Father Eck attended Blairstown Public School and graduated from North Warren Regional High School, also in Blairstown. It was while earning a bachelor’s degree in computer science at Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University, Blacksburg, Va., that Father Eck said

he began to embrace the Catholic faith as his own and really live it. “My faith became my own, and then I found my vocation,” he said. The Newman Center at the university was “incredibly active,” with nearly 1,000 students attending Sunday Mass. “I found myself suddenly thrown into this vibrant community of all these people that are my peers, that are practicing and doing acts of charity and caring about their faith, caring about the Mass,” he said. His fellow students “who just had this spirit of joy, this spirit of desire to be Catholic,” inspired him to imitate them and, eventually, to answer the call to the priesthood. Father Eck said that in college, he was deeply struck by the Scripture passage of Matthew 6: 33: “Seek ﬁrst the kingdom of God, and all the rest will be given to you.” He took this as his motto to live by, and trusted that God will guide him to where he belongs. And as he grew deeper into his faith, it occurred to him one day that maybe he was called to be a priest. “I found a lot more joy and peace with the Church than I did working, even though I enjoyed my major and the internships I was doing,” he said. He realized that he wanted to spend every day working for the Church and helping others, so he started researching how to

become a priest. He joined a men’s discernment group during junior year of college, and entered seminary in 2013, after working for about nine months at IBM as an automated test engineer. His family and friends were excited about his decision to enter the seminary. He studied four years at Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, where he earned a certificate in philosophy. He then lived for four years in Rome and earned a bachelor’s degree in theology at the Pontifical Gregorian University there in 2020. While a seminarian, he served at St. Helena Parish, Edison; and St. Philip and St. James Parish, Phillipsburg. He also spent a summer serving with the Maryknoll Fathers in Jilin, China. Father Eck celebrated his first Mass June 20 at St. Jude’s in Blairstown – an experience he said felt surprisingly natural, with a sense of “calm joy and peace.” He is scheduled to return to Rome to complete an advanced theology license program, specializing in sacred Liturgy, and will return to New Jersey and begin serving the diocese next summer. He said he would love to be able to teach others about the rich meaning in the Liturgy, having had the opportunity

learn about it in-depth. In his free time, Father Eck enjoys hiking, backpacking, sketching and mapmaking. Father Eck hopes to imitate St. Francis of Assisi in his “joyful example of ‘foolish love’ – where he just gave himself entirely to the Lord and would do anything, even if it seemed foolish in the eyes of the world, because he was just in love” with God, he said.

Newly-ordained Father Gregory J. Zannetti is eager to bring God’s mercy to others, especially in the sacrament of reconciliation. Father Zannetti said that even now, as a priest, he still feels nervous about going to confession, so he can empathize with people who dread the sacrament, but added confession is “the opportunity of a lifetime.” “I can’t tell you how many times I went to confession and I felt so much better,” he said. “We’re receiving heaven every time,” he stated. “That’s our happiness – eternal happiness. It’s not ﬂeeting. It’s greater than our feelings.” Father Zannetti grew up attending Mass with his family at St. Helena Parish, Edison, where he was an altar server. He learned about the faith from his maternal grandfather, the late Louis Leva, a daily communicant who was active in his parish and used to show his grandsons documentaries about lives of the saints. The youngest of three sons born to Eugene and Geralyn Zannetti, he attended the public schools in Edison, and while in middle and high school, he excelled at wrestling. When wrestling began to take priority in the family’s schedule, their Mass

attendance dropped only to weeks when there was no wrestling match. “In high school, I decided it wasn’t right that I wasn’t going to Mass,” Father Zannetti recalled. He and his friend and wrestling teammate, Vincent, began attending Mass together every week. He continued wrestling as a student at Rutgers University, New Brunswick, but made time for Mass each week. Two events during college transpired to bring him closer to God and awaken him to his vocation to the priesthood. Tragically, his friend, Vincent, was murdered. Father Zannetti said this made him face how fragile life can be, and how important it is to be ready to go with God. He decided to attend Mass daily whenever possible. While at Rutgers, Father Zannetti also read the Diary of St. Maria Faustina Kowalska because he wanted to know about the Divine Mercy Chaplet he had grown up praying. “Just seeing how [St. Faustina] totally gave her love to God” inspired him and made him realize “that we’re meant for something greater,” he said Father Zannetti credits the book, which details Jesus’s revelations about Divine Mercy, as inspiring him to answer the call to the priesthood, a call that slowly grew over the next few years. After graduating in 2013 with a bach-

elor’s degree in sociology, he worked at Automatic Data Processing for two years, and then two years at United Healthcare. During his second year at United Healthcare, he spoke to the diocese’s vocations director and made plans to enter the seminary. His parents, brothers and grandfather were excited to learn of his decision. “I’ve had nothing but support the whole time through,” he said. The future priest began his studies at Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, then attended the Pontiﬁcal University of St. Thomas in Rome, where he particularly loved his classes on Scripture, the Trinity, the Eucharist, spiritual direction, and the virtues. As a seminarian, he served during the summers at St. Bartholomew Parish, East Brunswick; St. James Parish, Basking Ridge; St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park; St. Ambrose Parish, Old Bridge; and Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Piscataway. He also ministered at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, New Brunswick. He was ordained a deacon July 25, 2020, and ordained to the priesthood by Bishop James Checchio on June 19 at the National Blue Army Shrine, Asbury. “It’s still pretty surreal” to be a priest, Father Zannetti said. He looks forward to “really being able to give people Jesus in any way I can.”

ORDINATIONS

By Teresa Murphy Correspondent

Bringing others to love of God is goal of Father Zannetti

He said he is happy to be returning to St. James Parish in Basking Ridge as a parochial vicar. Father Zannetti enjoys going to the beach, lifting weights, and wrestling for fun with the team at Rutgers when he has time. His goal is “to love God with all that I have, to give him everything I have, and to bring others into that love, to work for the salvation of souls, that God will somehow use me to bring others to him.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JULY 22, 2021

ORDINATIONS 20

Transitional Deacon takes up ministry By Christina Leslie Correspondent

— Mike Ehrmann photos

his deacon’s stole and dalmatic by Father Jerome A. Johnson, pastor, St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Old Bridge. Deacon Pastrana knelt before his shepherd and was presented with the Book of the Gospels. Bishop Checchio prayed, “May God, who has begun the good work in you, bring it to fulfillment. Receive the Gospel of Christ whose herald you have become. Believe what you read, teach what you believe and practice what you teach.” Deacon Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana, 31, was born in Cordoba, Colombia, one of four children of Jorge and Lidya Pastrana. He graduated from the Fundacion Universitana Catolica del Norte in 2016 with a degree in philosophy and religious education. He has served summers as a seminarian in St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, Bridgewater, and St. Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington. He will continue his studies in Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange, and will serve this summer at St. James Parish, Basking Ridge.

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

The people of the diocese had further cause for rejoicing June 19. In addition to welcoming four men to the order of the priesthood at the National Blue Army Shrine, Asbury, Bishop James F. Checchio also ordained Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana to the Order of the Diaconate. Father Mauricio Tabera-Vasquez, director, diocesan Office of Vocations, affirmed to the bishop that Mr. Pastrana was prepared to take up his ministry, to which the bishop responded, “Relying on the help of the Lord God and our Savior Jesus Christ, we choose this man, our brother, for the Order of the Diaconate.” In joyous response, the congregation erupted in applause. Bishop Checchio asked Mr. Pastrana if he would discharge the office of deacon with humble charity to assist the priestly order and benefit the Christian people; to hold fast to and proclaim the faith; to keep the commitment of celibacy; to maintain and deepen his prayer, and to conform his way of life to that of Christ. To each query from the bishop, the new deacon answered a clear, “I do.” Deacon Pastrana joined the four priestly candidates as they lay prostrate before the altar as the “Litany of the Saints” was sung by a schola. After he arose, he was vested with

Above, before ordaining him to the Transitional Diaconate, Bishop James F. Checchio clasps the hands of Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana asking him to profess fealty to him and his successors.

Above left, BIshop James F. Checcio poses with the diocese’s newest Transitional Deacon, Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana. Above right, Bishop Checchio lays hands on the head of Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana invoking the Holy Spirit upon him and ordaining him to the transitional diaconate.

Bishop encourages diocese’s n By Christina Leslie Correspondent ASBURY — On the eve of Father’s Day, four new fathers were ordained to the priesthood for the diocese at a shrine dedicated to the Blessed Mother. Calling the June 19 event “a day of grace for our diocese,” Bishop James F. Checchio ordained Rev. Mr. Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros; Rev. Mr. Ariel Robles Bautista Jr.; Rev. Mr. Timothy

Mark Eck II; Rev. Mr. Gregory Jose Zannetti to the priesthood before hu dreds of family, friends and clergy the National Blue Army Shrine of O Lady of Fatima. The bishop advis the men to form a close bond with S Joseph, “a worthy intercessor for much of what a priest does each day Father Mauricio Tabera-Vasque director, diocesan Office of Vocation made a public affirmation that the fo candidates were prepared to take their priestly ministries, and each the four echoed that he had come wi ingly and faithfully to the priesthood “Relying on the help of the Lo God and our Savior Jesus Christ, w choose these men, our brothers, f

Left, Father Robert Susko vests Father J Joseph Querubin with a stole and chasub the garments of a priest. Below, Bish Checchio gives newly ordained Father Ar Robles Bautista Jr. his chalice and pate which were blessed at a holy hour at t Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi.

21 ORDINATIONS

new priests to emulate St. Joseph

eph unat Our sed St. so y.” ez, ns, our up of illd. ord we for

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from their seats into the sanctuary to bless their new brothers in faith in the same manner.The vestments of a deacon the four wore were replaced by a stole and chasuble, the garments of a priest. They knelt once again before Bishop Checchio as he anointed their palms with Holy Chrism. After each new priest was embraced by the bishop and their fellow clerics during the Kiss of Peace, they jointed the prelates at the altar to consecrate the bread and wine during the Liturgy of the Eucharist for the first time. Bishop Checchio announced the four priests’ parish assignments as parochial vicars: Father Alquiros at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen; Father Bautista at Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale; Father Eck at St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Skillman, this summer before returning to Rome to complete his License in Liturgical Theology degree; and Father Zannetti at St. James Parish, Basking Ridge.

Center of page, the newly ordained priests and transitional deacon assist Bishop James F. Checcio, principal celebrant, in praying the consecration. Above, as a sign of humility, the four new priests and transitional deacon prostrate themselves as the Litany of Saints is prayed.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT Above, Father Gregory Zannetti, gives his first blessing to Bishop Checchio. Left, Bishop Checchio clasps the hands of Father Timothy Eck II as he makes his “Promise of Obedience” to the bishop. — Mike Ehrmann photos

JULY 22, 2021

the Order of the Priesthood,” Bishop Checchio declared as the congregation’s thunderous applause filled the amphitheater. In his homily, the bishop reminded the men they were being ordained in the Year of St. Joseph as declared by Pope Francis, and that the saint would watch over them with a father’s heart. Being a father, he continued, means sacrifice for the good of the family while giving up his own wants, desires and wishes. St. Joseph’s humble and selfless servitude is a model for the priesthood. “If you desire to be true, spiritual fathers, you need to take a cue, maybe 20 cues, from St. Joseph,” Bishop Checchio advised the newly ordained men. “Joseph, for me, was and is an example of the priesthood — someone who humbly, selflessly and obediently lived and worked for the good of others. I need this example in my life and I hope you do, too.” During the Rite of Ordination, deacons Alquiros, Bautista, Eck and Zannetti declared their willingness to undertake the tasks and obligations of the priesthood. The men knelt before the bishop to profess fealty to him and his successors; they lay prostrate before the altar to symbolize their unworthiness for the office to be assumed as well as dependence upon God and the prayers of the Christian community as a schola led the congregation in the timeless chant “Litany of the Saints.” The last notes of the litany faded, and the four men arose to approach Bishop Checchio, who laid his hands on their heads, one after the other, in silent prayer to invoke the Holy Spirit. One by one, their fellow priests filed

22 ORDINATIONS

Grateful Son Father Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros celebrated his first Mass of Thanksgiving June 20, at St. Ambrose Church, Old Bridge, which he said he considers his spiritual home. At the end of the Mass, the newly ordained priest thanked many who had supported him on his journey to the priesthood, especially his mother. He called her love “sacrificial,” and presented her with the manutergium, a holy cloth used at the Mass of Ordination to soak up the chrism oil with which the bishop anoints a new priest’s hands. At his Mass, Father Alquiros noted the manutergium is traditionally given to the priest’s mother. At left, he holds the holy cloth, which he had framed. Above left, Father Alquiros is shown with his mother and Father John C. “Jack” Grimes, pastor, St. Ambrose Parish. Above right, the new priest prays during the consecration and, at right, accepts the offertory gifts.

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

— Marlo Williamson photos

23 ORDINATIONS

Into the Vineyard On June 20, newly ordained Father Ariel Robles Bautista Jr. celebrated his first Mass at St. Magdalen de Pazzi Church, Flemington. Above right, Father Bautista distributes holy Communion to seminarians for the diocese. Right, Father Bautista kneels before a statue of the Blessed Mother to consecrate his priesthoood to her. Bottom left, Father Bautista speaks to the congregation and, above left, distributes the Eucharist to the faithful. After graduating high school from De La Salle University, Lipa City, Batangas, Philippines, in 2009, Father Bautista earned a degree in classical philosophy at Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary Seminary, Lucban, Quezon, Philippines, and spent two years at St. Alphonsus School of Theology, Lucena City, Quezon. In 2018, Father Bautista joined his parents in Flemington, attending Masses at their home parish — St. Magdalen de Pazzi. — Chris Donahue photos

Rev. Timothy Eck II • Rev. Gregory J. Zannetti Rev. Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros Rev. Ariel Robles Bautista Jr. and Rev. Mr. Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana

JULY 22, 2021

From the Parish Community of St. Bartholomew, East Brunswick

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

May God grant you many blessings as you begin this most holy and devoted ministry of the priesthood. Congratulations on your ordinations!

24 ORDINATIONS

CONGRATULATIONS AND BLESSINGS TO OUR NEWLY ORDAINED Rev. Timothy Eck II Rev. Gregory J. Zannetti Rev. Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros Rev. Ariel Robles Bautista, Jr.

and

Rev. Mr. Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana

May your ministry be ﬁlled with God’s graces and apostolic zeal!

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

The Parish Family of St. Joseph, Carteret

25 ORDINATIONS

Giving Thanks The day after being ordained by Bishop James F. Checchio June 20 at the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Asbury, Father Timothy Eck II returned to his home parish, St. Jude, Blairstown, to celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving at St. Jude Church. At left, he raises the Eucharist during the consecration. Above left, Father Eck prays during the consecration assisted by Father Mauricio Tabera-Vasquez, director, diocesan Office of Vocations. Above right, priests, seminarians and altar servers who were at the Mass, pose for a photo afterwards. At right, Father Eck distributes holy Communion to the congregation. In an interview, reflecting on his first Mass, Father Eck said he felt surprisingly natural with a sense of “calm joy — Ed Koskey Jr. photos and peace.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JULY 22, 2021

26 ORDINATIONS

Father’s Day On June 19, Father Gregory J. Zannetti celebrated his first Mass as a newly ordained priest at St. Helena Church, Edison, a few hours after he was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop James F. Checchio at the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Asbury. Above right, Father Zannettii gives his manutergium, a holy cloth used to soak up the the chrism oil with which the bishop anoints a new priest’s hands. Right, Father Zannetti distributes the Eucharist to seminarians for the diocese. Left, Father Zannetti raises the host during the consecration. Above left, he poses with clergy and altar servers after Mass, including Father Anthony M. Sirianni (at Father Zannetti’s right), pastor, St. Helena Parish. As a priest, Father Zannetti said his goal is “to love God with all that I have, to give him everything I have, and to bring others into that love, to work for the salvation of souls, that God will somehow use me to bring others to him.”

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

— Mike Ehrmann photos

active role for many years as a youth soccer coach. Dieuveuil attended the University of Maine, Orono, where he earned Bachelor of Science Degrees in Agriculture and Education, a Master of Social Work (MSW) and a Doctor of Philosophy (Ph.D.) in history with a concentration in labor relations. He is certified as a Senior Professional in Human Resources by the Human Resource Certification Institute and as a Senior Certified Professional by the Society for Human Resources Management. Dieuveuil and his wife, Jennifer, are the parents of four sons. The family recently moved to Central New Jersey. Saint Peter’s Healthcare System Inc., parent company of the Saint Peter’s healthcare delivery system, is comprised of Saint Peter’s University Hospital, a 478-bed acute-care teaching hospital and state-designated children’s hospital and regional perinatal center; Saint Peter’s Foundation, the fundraising arm of the hospital; Saint Peter’s Health and Management Services Corp., which oversees outpatient facilities, including the CARES Surgicenter; and Saint Peter’s Physician Associates, a network of primary and specialty care physician practices. Saint Peter’s Healthcare System is

OUR DIOCESE

NEW BRUNSWICK — Saint Pe- healthcare system comprised of eight ter’s Healthcare System, the parent hospitals, a network of more than 200 company of Saint Peter’s University outpatient locations and physician ofHospital, announced the appointment fices, and more than 20,000 employees of Harry Dieuveuil as vice president in central Pennsylvania. While there, and Chief Human Rehe held positions as ‘Harry [Dieuveuil] sources Officer effecvice president-Talent tive June 28. vice presents a unique blend Management, According to president-Human of assets to the role of Resources and most Leslie D. Hirsch, president and chief regional vice Chief Human Resources recently, executive officer, president-Human ReSaint Peter’s Healthsources & System LaOfficer, including a care System, “Harry bor Relations. combination of stellar was selected after Prior to his tenure a rigorous national at WellSpan, Dieucommunication skills, search that yielded a veuil spent more than administrative exper- 15 years at Northern competitive slate of final candidates. He Healthcare Systise and the ability to Light brings extensive expetem, where he held a rience to the position engage and motivate series of progressively responsible human after more than 20 leaderyears of human re- employees at all levels.” resources —Leslie D. Hirsch ship roles. Dieuveuil sources leadership and management. is well-versed in all “Harry presents aspects of human rea unique blend of assets to the role sources management, especially emof Chief Human Resources Officer, ployee relations and engagement. Before commencing his career including a combination of stellar communication skills, administrative in human resources management, expertise and the ability to engage and Dieuveuil was a social worker, workmotivate employees at all levels.” ing in a variety of related positions Dieuveuil joins Saint Peter’s after at community-based organizations in several years at WellSpan Health, a New Jersey and Maine. He has had an

Experienced human resources executive takes helm at Saint Peter’s

Harry Dieuveuil is the new vice president and Chief Human Resources Officer at Saint Peter’s Healthcare System. — photo courtesy of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System

sponsored by the Diocese of Metuchen and is a major clinical affiliate of Rutgers Biomedical Health and Sciences. For information about Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, visit www.saintpetershcs.com or call (732) 745-8600.

We’re Accepting New Admissions for our Post-acute, Assisted Living, Nursing & Memory Care Homes THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Meeting all the state’s infection control requirements for senior living communities

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732-902-4200 Parkerlife.org |

JULY 22, 2021

The artwork of Alani Boomer, a member of the Class of 2021 at St. Bartholomew School, East Brunswick, was selected from among thousands of entries as a winner in the 2020-2021 Christmas Artwork Contest of the Missionary Childhood Association. — photo courtesy of St. Bartholomew School

Call and ask how we keep your loved one safe in our care

JULY 22, 2021

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OUR DIOCESE

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

JULY 22, 2021

30 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JULY 22, 2021

Former student remembered with long-lasting donations favors you have bestowed on us, especially through the life of Daniel Mark Anderl, who has touched so many while on this On June 11, the Feast of the Most Sacred earth, and continues to bless from his place Heart of Jesus, Father Robert G. Lynam, in heaven. As we do so, we appeal to your pastor, St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, compassion: stay close to those whose petiKendall Park, presided at a blessing and tions you have granted through the intercesdedication of a redwood tree and memorial sion and graces of Daniel from above, and stone in memory of Daniel Mark Anderl at will continue to do, and prepare us for the rewards of the life to come. the parish’s school. “Bless this Redwood Tree and MemoAnderl, a 2014 graduate of the school and the only child of United States District rial Stone in honor of the strength and life Court Judge Esther Salas and defense attor- of Daniel who became a ‘superior force’ on ney Mark Anderl, gave his life to protect his Sunday, July 19, 2020, as he offered his life for his mother and father, and in gratitude mother and father July 19, 2020. Daniel and his father were shot at the for the Federal Marshals who in Daniel’s front door of the family’s home in North memory have planted 20 trees throughout the national parks of this Brunswick by suspected great land. shooter Roy Den Hol“You can choose “May all who walk lander, who was later to say, ‘I am not in by this memorial always found dead of a self-inthe gift that flicted gunshot wound. the mood to go to remember Daniel was to this school Anderl, who was a church,’ or you can and parish community, 2018 graduate of Saint and we bless this tree Joseph High School, choose to go to get and memorial stone, in Metuchen, would have been a junior at the God’s help and thank the Name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Catholic University of God and Mary for Holy Spirit. Amen.” America, Washington, Father Lynam said D.C. all they have done he chose to hold it on the The monument, in your life. You can feast of the Sacred Heart which was paid for Jesus because just as by private donations, choose to be angry of the Church celebrates was created by Clinton Monument, Jamesburg, and mad when some- the love and mercy that flows from it, “Daniel’s and a cross came from Holy Cross Cemetery, one does something heart was also filled with great love, great compasEast Brunswick, Father wrong to you, or sion.” Lynam said. forgive them.” In her comments, The redwood Salas noted that it is said tree was donated by —U.S. District Court Judge that horrific events bring Jeff Baumley, owner Esther Salas out what is wonderful of Baumley Nursery, about human beings. Princeton, who is also a “Since we lost Daniel,” she continmember of the parish and whose children attended its school. Baumley said he chose ued, “we have been the recipients of acts to donate the approximately 20-foot-high of kindness, of love, of support of which I deciduous tree — called an Ogun Dawn can stand here all day and speak of those Redwood that he grew from a height of various moments that we have been blessed 18 to 24 inches at his nursery — “for its to have.” Later, Salas held up a keepsake that strength and longevity…to be there for generations, for Daniel’s family and members included a seeming prophetic reference to Baumley’s donation written by her son. On of the parish to visit.” The tree, which can grow up to 70 feet a depiction of an angel that Daniel made as and seems resistant to disease or blight, is a student, it said: “Every day I will stop air pollution by turning off the lights before I “fast growing and very strong.” “I have never seen damage of one leave and I will plant more trees so people from wind breakage,” said Baumley, who can breathe.’” Addressing the children, Salas said, has a grove of 44 similar redwoods at his “You can choose to think about only yourhome. In the Prayer of Blessing, Father Ly- self or think about everyone around you. “You can choose to say, ‘I am not in the nam said: “Almighty God and Father, it is our certain faith that your Son, who died on mood to go to church,’ or you can choose the cross, was raised from the dead, the first to go to get God’s help and thank God and fruits of all who have fallen asleep. Grant Mary for all they have done in your life. “You can choose to be angry and mad that through this mystery your servant, Daniel Mark Anderl, who has gone to his when someone does something wrong to rest in Jesus Christ, now shares in the joy of you, or forgive them. “Daniel will be with you…your famihis resurrection. “O God, your mercy is without mea- lies will be with you and always remember sure, the treasures of your goodness without that God lives within you and will be with limit. We thank your gentle majesty for the you forever.” By Chris Donahue Associate Editor

Above, an honor guard from the South Brunswick Police Department is shown at a blessing and dedication ceremony of a redwood tree and memorial stone in honor of Daniel Mark Anderl at his alma mater, St. Augustine of Canterbury School.

Above right, Mark Anderl, Daniel’s father; U.S. Districty Court Judge Esther Salas, and Jeff Baumley, owner of Baumley Nursery, Princeton, who donated the redwood tree, pose after the ceremony. Baumley is also a memebr of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish whose children attended its school. Above, Salas speaks to the attendees at the ceremony. Right, the redwood tree stands behind a memorial stone for Daniel, who died July 19, 2020, when a gunman opened fire at his North Brunswick home. Mark Anderl was critically wounded. — Mike Ehrmann photos

31 OUR DIOCESE

Dedicated to Mary After installing Vocationist Father Thomas Naduviledathu as the new pastor of St. James Parish, Woodbridge, at Mass July 11, Bishop James F. Checchio posed with the new pastor who will be installed in September as the chaplain of the parish’s Catholic Daughters of America (CDA) Court Mercedes. At left with Bishop Checchio and Father Naduviledathu, are, from left: CDA Court Mercedes Regent Eileen Swingle; Sue Getz, who was the group’s Vice Regent before she suffered a stroke more than two years ago; and Floss Vornoli, a CDA member. One of St. James’ ministries, the CDA’s mission is to embrace the principle of faith working through love in the promotion of justice, equality, and the advancement of human rights and human dignity for all. The purpose of the organization is to help Catholic women develop their spirituality and serve their communities, states and the nation. Unity and charity is the motto of the CDA, and the Blessed Mother is its patroness. At right, Father Naduviledathu, prays before the Blessed Mother. At the end of his installation Mass, he dedicated his pastorate to the Blessed Mother. — Marlo Williamson photos

Crossword Puzzle 1

25 26

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

Answers can be found on page 38

JULY 22, 2021

DOWN 2 Direction from Jerusalem to Nazareth 3 First patriarch, to his friends? 4 The flight to here is one of the Sorrows of Our Lady 5 “Ite, ___ est” 7 In 1 Samuel, this was the sign from Jonathan that David’s life was in danger 8 Jewish month of Passover 9 Mattress for the Baby Jesus? 13 Notre Dame nickname, “The Fighting ___” 14 At Mass, the entrance prayers or song 15 Fourth book of the Bible 17 Satan 19 David married his widow 21 The pharaoh had one about fat cows and lean cows 25 Catholic author of The Power and the Glory 27 Exodus character who could speak well 29 “Where were you when I founded the ___?” (Job 38:4) 30 The Law 31 Dinah, to Esau 32 He called to Adam, “Where are you?” (Gen 3:9) 34 There was no room here

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

ACROSS 1 Branch of the Eastern Church in union with Rome 6 She gave birth to the prophet who anointed Saul 10 Deadly sin descriptor 11 Vestry 12 Follower of Jesus 16 Sister, hermit, consecrated virgin and art historian 18 Catholic physicist 20 It was empty Easter morning 21 Symbol of the Holy Spirit 22 “…and the Word was ___ God, and the Word was God” (Jn 1:1) 23 “…thy will be ___…” 24 Maiden name of a Catholic princess 26 From the ___ of Peter 28 The New or The Old 32 Mary Magdalene mistook the Risen Jesus for this 33 “But after I am ___ up, I will go before you to Galilee.” (Mt 26:32) 35 He explains the meaning of the writing on the wall 36 “…they who ___ and thirst for righteousness…” (Mt 5:6)

OUR FAITH

Pray for Satan?/Mass vessels, vestments

There is no reason to believe that Satan would ever change his ways, and I believe it would be a waste of time to pray that he will. The Gospel of Matthew speaks of “the eternal ﬁre prepared for the devil and his angels” (Mt 25:41). The Catechism of the Catholic Church expands on this: “It is the irrevocable character of their choice, and not a defect in the inﬁnite divine mercy, that makes the angels’ sin unforgivable” (No. 393). That same section of the catechism goes on to quote St. John Damascene: “There is no repentance for the angels after their fall, just as there is no repentance for men after death.” So it seems to me that our time should

I agree in substance with your observation. It’s probable that Jesus at the Last Supper used a humble clay cup in blessing the wine, and I don’t think we should stray far from that simplicity. At the same time, though, the Church does want to highlight the “specialness” of the Eucharist. What we receive in holy Communion is the greatest gift of all, and sacred vessels denote the preciousness of the contents in a way that common and profane containers do not. The sacriﬁce of the Mass brings us into contact with the divine and “lifts us up” to heaven.

And so, the guidance the Church offers us on this is contained in the General Instruction of the Roman Missal, which is the Church’s “rule book” on liturgical matters. There we read, “Sacred vessels should be made from precious metal. If they are made from metal that rusts or from a metal less precious than gold, they should generally be gilded on the inside. “In the dioceses of the United States of America, sacred vessels may also be made from other solid materials which in the common estimation in each region are considered precious or noble, for example, ebony or other harder woods, provided that such materials are suitable for sacred use” (Nos. 328-329). In a section on sacred furnishings, the general instruction says that “noble simplicity” should be the governing goal in matters liturgical (No. 325). As applied to vestments, this would mean that “it is ﬁtting that the beauty and nobility of each vestment not be sought in an abundance of overlaid ornamentation, but rather in the material used and in the design” (No. 344). I have noticed over the years a tendency toward greater simplicity in liturgical vestments, and that trend is consistent with the Church’s goal. Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@gmail.com and 30 Columbus Circle Dr., Albany, NY 12203

In my vocation as a Little Sister of the Poor, I am involved in several aspects of our mission of hospitality to the elderly. One of my favorite things is organizing creative activities for our residents, so I am always looking for new art projects they might enjoy. Recently, I became intrigued with collage as an artistic medium. After watching a few online tutorials, I reached out to a professional collage artist to ask her if she had ever taught frail seniors or people with disabilities. I was touched when I received a personal reply from Elizabeth St. Hilaire the very next day. She gave me some tips about supplies and suggested that I explore the work of collage artist Eric Carle, whose style she thought might correspond to our seniors. I was not familiar with Eric Carle, at least by name, but when I Googled him, I recognized his colorful style from children’s books I had seen when visiting my nieces and nephew. The more research I did, the more fascinated I became with Carle’s life and work. His childlike spirit and peaceful, carefree creative process really struck me. Both Carle and St. Hilaire create vibrant “paper paintings” featuring many elements from the natural world, along with adorable

animals and intriguing human beings. But while St. Hilaire creates her impressionistic images using tiny bits of hand-printed collage paper, Carle’s works are created using pieces of tissue paper he ﬁlls with seemingly random brush strokes, circular patterns, dots and splatters of paint. His style is whimsical and a bit primitive. Watching a video of him creating art in his studio and engaging with children, I was struck by his serene attentiveness to his craft, to nature and to other people. I could not help but think that his life could have taken a very different turn. After an idyllic early childhood, Carle moved to Germany with his parents because his mother missed her homeland. His father was drafted into the German army at the beginning of World War II, taken prisoner and eventually returned home a broken man. As a teenager, Carle was conscripted to dig trenches along the German border. It was onerous work, forcing him to confront the dark realities of war. After completing art school, returning to the United States and working for several years as a commercial artist in New York City, he was drafted into the U.S. army during the Korean War. He could have become hardened or cynical, but he did not. In 1967, Carle was hired to illustrate his ﬁrst children’s book, a job that changed his life. He then devoted the rest of his life to writing and illustrating children’s books — 70 in all, with more than 170 million copies sold! Recent interviews reveal a man very much at peace, someone who grew wiser,

more insightful and more childlike as he aged. Eric Carle’s approach to life seems tailor-made for our present situation. “Simplify, slow down, be kind,” he often said. And on a wall in the Eric Carle Museum of Picture Book Art is the following inscription: “Children’s books remind us in uncertain times that there is still much we do know: Kindness matters. Laughter is essential. Caring for each other is everything.” Carle died at his home in Massachusetts May 23. While visiting my family in New England the week after his death, I had a conversation with my cousin, a precocious six-year-old. She told me about dressing up as a character from her favorite book, “The Very Hungry Caterpillar,” for a recent school assignment. “The Very Hungry Caterpillar” is Carle’s most popular title. I asked her what makes her appreciate Carle’s books so much. Her response stunned me. Eric Carle, she said, “makes simple beauty out of pieces of nothing.” I do not know if Carle was a Christian, but his life and work seem to epitomize Gospel simplicity and Pope Francis’ vision of older people as guides who can help the young formulate their own dreams. As we look forward to celebrating the ﬁrst World Day of Grandparents and the Elderly on July 25, I feel that I have found a new friend. As I grow older, I pray I will be able to make simple beauty out of pieces of nothing like Eric Carle did. Sister Constance is director of communications for the Little Sisters of the Poor.

Q Pope Francis

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Question Corner

June 16, 2021 We have recalled several times in this series of catechesis that prayer is one of the most evident features of the life of Jesus: Jesus prayed, and He prayed a lot. In the course of His mission, Jesus immersed Himself in it, because the dialogue with the father was the incandescent core of all His existence. The Gospels testify how Jesus' prayer became even more intense and dense at the hour of his passion and death. These culminating events of His life constitute the central core of Christian preaching: those last hours lived by Jesus in Jerusalem are the heart of the Gospel not only because the Evangelists reserve proportionally greater space to this narrative, but also because the event of His death and resurrection — like a ﬂash of lightning — sheds light on the rest of Jesus' life. He was not a philanthropist who took care of human suffering and illness: He was and is much more. In Him there is not only goodness: there is something more, there is salvation, and not an episodic salvation - the type that might save me from an illness or a moment of despair — but total salvation, messianic salvation, that gives hope in the deﬁnitive victory of life over death.

JULY 22, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Prayer to Our Lady of Mount Carmel O most beautiful Flower of Mount Carmel, Fruitful Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me this my necessity. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mary, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Earth, I humbly beseech you from the bottom of my heart, to succor me in this necessity; there are none that can withstand your power. O, show me herein you are my Mother, O Mary, conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee. (3 times) Sweet Mother, I place this cause in your hands. (3 times)

Jesus tells us to love our enemies. Satan is our enemy. Should we love Satan, perhaps by praying for his redemption? Is it possible that,

By Father Kenneth Doyle through our prayers, Satan could repent and be reunited with God? (Woodbridge, Va.)

be spent praying not for the salvation of Satan but of living human beings. No matter how sinful or how far from God someone may seem, every person still on this earth can be brought into God’s eternal family through repentance for sin.

As I have reached old age (82), my thoughts have been on Jesus and the apostles being poor and humble. By contrast, I see priests, bishops and cardinals attired at Mass with gold-emblazoned apparel and celebrating the consecration using chalices of gold. Yet the statuary of Christ and the saints depicts them as people of poverty. Why this obvious imbalance in celebrating our faith? (Derby, Ind.)

Author, illustrator made lasting impression

Jesus: the ‘Bread of Life’ This Sunday we begin a series of readings taken from the sixth chapter of St. John’s Gospel. This particular chapter, known as the “Bread of Life” Discourse, offers a number of insights regarding St. John’s understanding of the Eucharist. Building upon the message of last Sunday’s Gospel, the theme of Jesus as nurturing and providing for his people is developed and deepened.

SCRIPTURE STUDY By Msgr. John N. Fell This Sunday’s Gospel (Jn 6:1-15) provides the base story that underlies this entire series of readings, recalling Jesus’ miraculous feeding of the multitude. Interestingly, this is the only one of Jesus’ miracles which all four evangelists chose to present in their Gospels. St. John uses it as the basis from which Jesus launches into his teaching that he himself is the Bread of Life. In doing so, John follows his familiar pattern of presenting a miracle story and then building a major teaching discourse upon it. Other examples of this occur when Jesus heals the man born blind (showing himself as the Light of the World) and when Jesus raises Lazarus from the dead (showing himself as the Life of the World). It is important to remember that St. John’s Gospel does not present an account of Jesus instituting the Eucharist at the Last Supper; the core of this Gospel’s Eucharistic teaching is presented here in chapter six. St. John sets this miraculous event in Galilee. The crowds, having seen the great things he had been doing for the sick, continue to gather around Jesus. He then went up the mountain (mountains are the traditional Biblical place where divine revelations occurred). St. John tells us that the Feast of Passover was near; perhaps he was hinting that the Passover was not only temporally close, but also that the Passover meal was spiritually close to the meal Jesus was about to share with the crowd. After speaking with Philip and Andrew, Jesus discovered that he was faced with a humanly impossible situation. They were surrounded by a vast, hungry crowd, and they had nothing with which to purchase food or feed them, except for five barley loaves and a couple of fish. Jesus chose that moment to reveal God’s providential care for his people. Once the people had been seated on the grass,

FRIDAY, JULY 23- THURSDAY, AUGUST 5

1907-1943 August 9

CNS

This Austrian farmer and parish sexton had done his basic training in Hitler’s army in 1940-41, but refused to serve active duty in 1943. A military court in Berlin sentenced him to death as “an enemy of the state,” and he was beheaded Aug. 9, 1943. In prison awaiting his fate, he wrote about a dream he’d had in 1938. In it, many people were boarding a new train, but he heard the announcer say, “This train is bound for hell.” For him, the train symbolized the evils of Nazism, and he had become a conscientious objector. His wife and three daughters were still living when he was beatified in Austria in 2007.

Saints

SCRIPTURE SEARCH® Gospel for July 25, 2021 John 6: 1-15

Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the 17th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B: Feeding many out of little. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle. FOLLOWED TEST LOAVES GRASS FILL LEFT OVER TO COME

PASSOVER TWO HUNDRED TWO FISH FIVE THOUSAND GATHER TWELVE WORLD

EYES A LITTLE MANY THANKS FRAGMENTS BASKETS KING

THEIR FILL F O L L O W E D F R

E Y E S E M O C O T

A L V J O K P J N A N A G Y D E

N A D V L W K

M A H N T A S E L L A K E D G

O H S

F O W T

N R L E F T O V E R O W T E T S E T V U F Y R E S H T K T L E D S N L

L T S S S A R G F A D V D A L

T T L E M M N E

JULY 22, 2021

Ex 20:1-17 / 19:8, 9, 10, 11 / Mt 13:18-23 Ex 24:3-8 / Ps 50:1b-2, 5-6, 14-15 / Mt 13:24-30 2 Kgs 4:42-44 / Ps 145:10-11, 15-16, 17-18 / Eph 4:1-6 / Jn 6:1-15 Ex 32:15-24, 30-34 / Ps106:19-20, 21-22, 23 / Mt 13:31-35 Ex 33:7-11; 34:5b-9, 28 / Ps 103:6-7, 8-9, 10-11, 12-13 / Mt 13:36-43 Ex 34:29-35 / Ps 99:5, 6, 7 9 / Mt 13:44-46 Ex 40:16-21, 34-38 / Ps 84:3, 4, 5-6a and 8a, 11 / Jn 11:19-27 or Lk 10:38-42 Lv 23:1, 4-11, 15-16, 27, 34b-37 / Ps 81:3-4, 5-6, 10-11ab / Mt 13:54-58 Lv 25:1, 8-17 / Ps 67:2-3, 7-8 / Mt 14:1-12 Ex 16:2-4, 12-15 / Ps 78:3-4, 23-24, 25, 54 / Eph 4:17, 20-24 / Jn 6:24-35 Nm 11:4v-15 / Ps 81:12-13, 14-15, 16-17 / Mt 14:13-21 Nm 12:1-13 / Ps 51:3-4, 5-6ab, 6cd-7, 12-13 / Mt 14:22-26 or Mt 15:1-2, 10-14 Nm 13:1-2, 25-14:1, 26-29a, 34-35 / Ps106:6-7ab, 13-14, 21-22, 23 / Mt 15:21-28 Nm 20:1-13 / Ps 95:1-2, 5-6, 9 / 2 Pt 1:16-19 / Mk 9:2-10

Blessed Franz Jagerstatter

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE Fri 23 Sat 24 Sun 25 Mon 26 Tues 27 Wed 28 Thurs 29 Fri 30 Sat 31 Sun 1 Mon 2 Tues 3 Wed 4 Thurs 5

St. John tells us that “Jesus then took the loaves of bread, gave thanks, and passed them around . . .” (Jn 6:11). This process parallels Jesus’ actions in the Synoptic accounts of his instituting the Eucharist at the Last Supper (see Matthew 26:26-29; Mark 14:22-24; Luke 22:17-20). In fact, the Greek word for giving thanks (eucharisteó) is the same word by which the Sacrament of Jesus’ Body and Blood (Eucharist) has come to be known. Whereas the Synoptics recount that Jesus had the disciples pass the food around, St. John emphasizes that Jesus did so himself — just as he was to do in the various Synoptic Last Supper accounts. John then writes that the entire crowd had their fill of the bread and fish, after which they gathered up 12 baskets of leftovers. The important point here is, of course, that God does not just provide for his people, he provides for them in abundance. God’s love is not rationed out to his people but showered upon them lavishly. Of course, in later times (the current day for example), the chief remembrance of this love will be the Eucharistic banquet, during which we are privileged to feed upon the Bread of Life. The Gospel ends on a somewhat ambivalent note. Some in the crowd, having witnessed this sign of God’s providential love for them, recognized something very special about Jesus — “they said, ‘This is truly the Prophet, the one who is to come into the world” (Jn 6:14), but at this point many saw only the material /political possibilities in what Jesus had done. Fearing that the crowd would want to thrust political leadership upon him, Jesus hurried away alone. Over the next month, our Sunday Gospels will present Jesus’ attempts to explain the full meaning of this Bread of Life to those early followers in ancient Palestine and also to us — our God lovingly pours out his very self that we might be nourished and brought to eternal life. We have a great opportunity this summer to learn more about this amazing sacrament which is the “Source and Summit of the Christian Life . . . for in the blessed Eucharist is contained the whole spiritual good of the Church, namely Christ himself (“Lumen Gentium,” 11). As we emerge from pandemic precautions and physically return to participation at Mass, this series of Gospel readings can happily remind us of the sacred opportunity and divine gift that the Holy Eucharist truly is for us. Msgr. Fell is a Scripture scholar and director, diocesan Office for Priest Personnel

OUR FAITH

17th Sunday of Ordinary Time (B)

34 STEPPING UP IN CHARITY

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The next issue of “ComeThe follow me” Catholic Spirit JULY 22, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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Agency once again serving youth on full-time basis

Children extend care to military veteran in

The Youth Partial Care (YPC) program operated by Catholic Charities, Whenof Catholic Diocese Metuchen, Charities’ resumed full Child Care services June 14, making YPC the Site Supervisor Jenelle Clauson read first partial-care program in Middlea Facebook post about a 104-year-old sex County to resume the full range specialfollowing plea for of Marine’s in-person services the Valentine’s COVID-19 outbreak. wishes, she gathered her colleagues is a highly structured, intenatYPC Hatchery Hill Elementary School, sive day treatment program serving Hackettstown, andlive organized a project children from 9 to17 who in Middlesex and have in mental for County the children the health Catholic Charior behavioral concerns. The program ties’ after school child care program to recently welcomed new staff memrespond to the oldest living Marine’s bers Sonay Culpepper, LPC, clinical supervisor; request.and Destiny Cassell, BA, counselor. Maj. Bill White, a World War II Culpepper has a wealth of experiveteran Purple Heart ence providingand group, individual and recipient, family counseling at multiple levels of shared his wish during an interview with care, as well as previous management KTXL-TV in Sacramento, Calif., and experience. the request went viral. He intold the teleCassell previously worked child care hosts and mentorship vision that oneroles, of hisandfavorite hobFrom left, counselors Mary Davis and Destiny Cassell; clinical supervisor Sonay Culhas leadership experience. They join pepper, intern Christina Smallwood, and counselor Jessica Coimin recently posed bies is scrapbooking, which has helped current YPC counselors Mary Davis, for a photo at the Catholic Charities Edison Family Service Center. On June 14, YPC him keep trackBA, of and hiscase extensive life. BA, and to Jessica Coimin, opened its doors to all program participants for in-person services. Participants manager, Lawless, LSW.some were Now Christine he wanted to add Valentine welcomed back with a luau-themed celebration complete with games, speIn March 2020, at the beginning cial snacks, festive decorations and music. cards to his collection of mementos. of the COVID-19 pandemic, YPC — photo courtesy of Catholic Charities Oncein-person word got out and about White’s discontinued services, initially provided and from Benerequest, staffdaily andindividual children family phone counseling sessions, as again and brought teen clients back I could connect with the youth in perdict A. Cucinella Elementary School, in-personinservices. son. TheCharities' youth really struggled withchild c well as case management services to into the office for Children the Catholic after school Long Valley, and Willow Grove ElA hybrid model was offered, so that virtual. They were tired of being on all enrolled youth. Packets containing Hatchery Hill Elementary School, Hackettstown, send t teens and their families had a choice technology. I could see such a differclinical and psychoeducational mateementary School joined with Hatchery Major Bill White, WarweIIwere veteran and Purple Heart or virtual servicesa World ence when in person. rials, family activity ideas, self-care regarding in-person Hill and together they sent three large “The youth are now able to work — photo co guides and tools to assist youth and based on their own comfort level. Beenvelopes full of hand-made Valentine of space constraints with social on their goals and we have better comtheir families with maintaining routine cause distancing, andcards structure sent toto each youth’s andwere wishes honor White and toas well as staffing issues munication, and they are able to get exacerbated by the pandemic, YPC out of the house and engage with their home on a weekly basis. bring love and joy to the retired Marine. support to Maj. White and we are all re- child care for YPC also initiated a 24/7 on-call was only able to provide in-person group peers whom they had never minded of howparimportant it inisperson.” to provide school distric “We inareanticipation so thrilled response to a portion of program even met service of about increasedtheservices for 9- to 12-yearYPC parents expressed a simSomerset and recognition to those who have also served mental health crises. Whenthe it became we received from school ticipants. district,”Groups to becountry.” held virtually. ilar sentiment, voicing their relief that clear that the state shutdown was go- olds continued our For more said Child Care Service Area Director ing to last longer than anticipated, The teen group and youth group had their children can receive in-person Charities’ child Catholic Charities, Krista Glynn. “The tostaff andstaggered children start times,Last whichyear, enabled counseling services,Dioas they saw their Youth Partial Care pivoted a virconductcese each group consecu- children hadaffordable been strugglingccdom.org/chil overall of Metuchen provided tual platform, providingtodaily virtual were so excited send their staff loveto and with a lack of routine and structure, group therapy, as well as weekly indi- tively. Finally, on June 14, YPC opened and had not been able to engage in vidual and family sessions. YPC staff creatively formulated developmen- its doors to all program participants telehealth services as well as they can tally appropriate therapeutic activities for in-person services. Participants with in-person services. Participants in the Youth Partial to engage youth in a virtual platform, were welcomed back with a luauincluding creating virtual therapeutic themed celebration, complete with Care Program are provided with group board games, showing psychoeduca- games, special snacks, festive deco- therapy 12 hours weekly, in addition tional video clips, and using the vir- rations, and music. The rest of the to psychiatric services, individual and tual whiteboard feature for interactive week was rounded out with clinical family counseling, and case manageactivities. Staff members also hand- activities related to family dynamics. ment services. Door-to-door transdelivered materials to each youth’s YPC continues to take precautions to portation is offered to all program home at the beginning of each week prevent the spread of Covid-19 within participants. For more information or to make so that the youth would have the mate- program. “Returning to program was the a referral, please call the Catholic rials needed to participate actively in first step in normalcy!” Davis ex- Charities Edison Family Service Cengroup. In November 2020, YPC pivoted claimed “I was so happy and glad that ter at (732) 738-1323.

for their education and guide them in the themselves condemnation” (Rm 13:1-2). insult, ridicule, cursing, or otherwise being spiritual life. They have the duty, as well as “Where families cannot ful- ashamed of them. Children are to love their the right, to exercise a wise and just control fill their responsibilities, other social parents, because parents are representatives over the actions of their children, because bodies have the duty of helping them and of of God’s own majesty. they are responsible to supporting the institution And, having filled their home with God for their children’s of the family” (ccc 2209). the light and warmth of Christ, parents How blessed they well-being. This authorFurther, “civil authority see that light shine forth in their grown ity should be exercised should consider it a grave children. How blessed they are when they [parents] are when mildly but firmly. While duty to acknowledge the witness the Church’s blessing on the marthey witness the seeking to cultivate selftrue nature of marriage riage of their children who then, following By Father John Gerard Hillier reliance in their children, Church’s blessing on and the family, to protect the example of their parents, have children parents should also train and foster them, to safe- of their own. No wonder the Catechism the marriage of their guard public morality, speaks of grandchildren as “the crown of The Fourth Commandment in Sacred them in submission to Scripture found in Exodus 20:12 and Deu- other lawful authority. and promote domestic the aged” (ccc 2019). children who then, teronomy 5:16, which states: “Honor your The Fourth Comprosperity” (ccc 2210). Gratitude is most appropriately directfather and your mother...”, is explained fur- mandment obliges following the example By honoring their ed to our parents from whom we received ther in the Catechism as follows: “God has children to respect and parents, who stand in the “the gift of faith, the grace of Baptism, and willed that, after him, we should honor our love their parents, to of their parents, have place of God, children life in the Church” (ccc 2220). But, the Catparents to whom we owe life and who have obey them in all that is honor God Himself. echism includes others, such as “grandchildren of their handed on to us the knowledge of God” not sinful, and to help The responsibility of parents, other members of the family, own. No wonder the proper respect by a son pastors, catechists, and other teachers (ccc 2197). them when they are in All good parents deserve the “honor” need. To our parents, daughter demands that or friends” (ccc 2220). Finally, let us Catechism speaks of or willed by God in this Commandment. In after God, we owe our they treat their parents remember the sentiments of St. Paul, fact, those of us who have such “good par- very existence. We de- grandchildren as “the with marked esteem in who writing about a multigenerational ents” find it difficult to imagine the lives of pend on them, through word and action. family, said: “I am reminded of your sincrown of the aged” both those who do not. Over the years, I heard our formative years, for Grown children are re- cere faith, a faith that dwelt first in your many stories of people who found it near food, clothing, and shelminded of their special grandmother Lois and your mother Eu(ccc 2019). impossible to fulfill the “honor” required ter. They furnish us our responsibilities, which nice and now, I am sure, dwells in you” of children in the Fourth Commandment. material needs with loving and unselfish include “material and moral support in (2 Tm 1:5). Why? Because some have experienced care, and provide for our education and old age and in times of illness, loneliness, Father Hillier serves as Director of fathers or mothers with mental illness. development of both body and soul. Our or distress” (ccc 2218). Young and old the Office of the Pontifical Mission SocietOthers have one or both parents who were love for parents must not exist only in our are forbidden to strike their parents or to ies, the Office for Persons with Disabilities neglectful. Still others have parents who hearts. We must demonstrate it by praying cause emotional or spiritual injury through and Censor Librorum were downright abusive. The challenge for for them, by doing everything we can to any child with parents such as these (even ease their burdens, and by obeying their grown children) is to find a way to recon- requests. “The family should live in such cile the impact of the emotional or spiritual a way that its members learn to care and scars they experienced during their forma- take responsibility for the young, the old, tive years. the sick, the handicapped, and the poor” The Catechism, expanding upon the (ccc 2208). Fourth Commandment, teaches us how Constituting “one of the foundations parents ought to be. With reference to the of the social doctrine of the Church” (ccc nuclear or traditional family, it states: “The 2198), the Fourth Commandment obliges family is the community in which, from us to not only obey our parents and all childhood, one can learn moral values, lawful superiors, but presupposes “honor, begin to honor God, and make good use of affection, and gratitude toward elders and freedom. Family life is an initiation into life ancestors...(as well as)...pupils to teachers, Do you feel lost, alone or bored in your marriage? in society” (ccc 2207). A few paragraphs employees to employers, subordinates Are you frustrated, hurt or angry with your spouse? earlier, it states: “Marriage and the family to leaders, citizens to their country, and Are you constantly fighting? Or, do you simply shut down? are ordered to the good of the spouses and to those who administer or govern” (ccc to the procreation and education of chil- 2199). Have you thought about separation or divorce? dren” (ccc 2201). Like all who exercise authority, Does talking about it only make it worse? Parents who enjoy their right of au- parents derive their authority from God. Retrouvaille is a Lifeline to Help Couples Heal and Renew their Marriages. thority, also have special obligations. They Therefore, as St. Paul puts it: “Let everyThe program consists of a weekend experience for married couples must love their children as God loves all one be subject to higher authorities, for (no group discussions) with six follow-up sessions. of us, His children. They must not only there exists no authority except from God, care for the reasonable material needs and those who exist have been appointed Family Care Placement, of their children, but must also provide by God...and they that resist, bring on UPCOMING WEEKEND:

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FAITH ALIVE

Article 152 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 2196-2220

Honor parents with love, prayer, gratitude, obedience

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36 OUR DIOCESE

OBITUARY Mercy Sister Diane Szubrowski, 83, former president of the New Jersey Regional Community of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas died July 7 at McAuley Hall Health Care Center, Watchung, after a brief illness. The only child of Joseph and Helen Szubrowski, Sister Diane was a native of Trenton. She graduated from Cathedral High School, Trenton, in 1955 and entered the Sisters of Mercy upon graduation. She spent her early years teaching at St. Francis School, Metuchen; St. Mary Elementary School, South Amboy; and St. Elizabeth School, Bernardsville. She returned as principal of St. Francis School before her appointment in 1974 as personnel director for the Sisters of Mercy. In this capacity, she earned the love and respect of the sisters whom she served. In 1978, Sister Diane was elected councilor for the Sisters of Mercy of New Jersey, serving for eight years as

an advocate for peace and justice. As founder and director of Mercy Peace Center in Watchung, she lectured, traveled, and hosted events to bring the message of peace to others. Recognized for her leadership skills and compassionate care for the sisters, in 1994 she was elected president of the New Jersey Regional Community of the Sisters of Mercy of the Americas, a position she held for 13 years. Sister Diane earned a bachelor’s degree in elementary education at Georgian Court College (now University), and a master’s degree in education as well as a master’s degree in social work at Rutgers University, New Brunswick. She served as a family therapist at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, from 1988 to 1994. In 2005, on the occasion of her Golden Jubilee in the Sisters of Mercy, the sisters honored her at their annual Benefit Dinner Dance. In the introduc-

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tion that evening, it was noted that her compassionate interest in others led her to become involved for more than 30 years in issues relating to drug and alcohol abuse. In 2007, Catholic Charities named her the honoree for its annual Flame of Charity Dinner, giving testimony to her years of dedication and her living out the Mercy core values of service, compassion, justice, respect, and integrity. In 2008, Sister Diane began a new phase of ministry at Georgian Court University, where she served on the administrative staff in the Office for Institutional Advancement and later as a volunteer for donor relations until 2019. Sister Diane is survived by loving cousins and members of the Sisters of Mercy who will miss her deeply. A funeral Mass was celebrated July 16 at Mount Saint Mary. Burial will be at a later date. Funeral arrangements were han-

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Just then, Pharaoh’s daughter came to the river to bathe. She noticed the basket among the reeds and told her handmaid to retrieve it. Pharaoh’s daughter opened the basket and looked in. She was surprised to find a crying baby inside. “It is one of the Hebrews’ children,” she said with pity. The baby’s sister saw what was happening, so she went up to Pharaoh’s daughter. “Shall I go and call one of the Hebrew women to nurse the child for you?” she asked.

“Yes, do so,” Pharaoh’s daughter said. The girl went home and brought back her mother, who also was the baby’s mother. “Take this child and nurse it for me, and I will repay you,” Pharaoh’s daughter told the baby’s mother. The woman took the baby and nursed him. When the child grew and no longer needed to be nursed, the woman brought him to Pharaoh’s daughter, who adopted him. Pharaoh’s daughter decided to name the child Moses because she drew him out of the water.

Read more about it: Exodus 1 & 2 Q&A 1. Who drew the basket out of the water? 2. What name was the baby given?

PUZZLE: Unscramble the words and arrange them in the correct order to form a quotation from the children’s story.

noe, denchril, ti, websher, fo, si, het Answers: one; children; it; Hebrews; of; is; the It is one of the Hebrews’ children.

Ten of Jacob’s 12 sons were jealous of their brother, Joseph, so they sold him into slavery in Egypt. But God was with Joseph, who eventually came to work for Pharaoh and ruled all of Egypt for him. When there was a terrible drought, some of Jacob’s sons went to Egypt to find food and reunited with Joseph. Jacob and the rest of his family moved to Egypt, where they had a good life because of Joseph. As time went by, Jacob’s descendants greatly multiplied. Eventually,

their good life turned bad when a new Pharaoh who had not known Joseph came into power. He did not look favorably upon the Israelites, so he enslaved them and ordered all of their male babies killed. During this time, a Levite woman had a baby boy, and she hid him for three months. When she could no longer hide him, she took a papyrus basket, coated it with bitumen and pitch, put the baby in the basket and placed it among the reeds on the bank of the Nile River. The baby’’s sister stationed herself at a distance so she could see what happened to her brother.

OUR DIOCESE

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service

Kids Corner: God tells Jonah to preach against Nineveh

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JULY 22, 2021

38 OUR DIOCESE

Brother Knights Bishop Emeritus Paul G. Bootkoski, State Chaplain for the New Jersey Knights of Columbus, poses with Scott C. Williams, a member of the Knights of Columbus Council 7046, St. Cecilia Parish, Monmouth Junction, after he was installed as the fraternal organization’s new State Warden at Mass at St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold, July 10. Williams, a member of the Knights since 2001 who is Auxiliary District Marshall of the Fourth Degree, said: “I cannot think of a better organization to help the community and my parish.” Williams and his wife of 41 years, Karen, live in Dayton. — Mike Ehrmann photo

Crossword Puzzle Answers: U N I A T E O B G G R E E D Y T P C H R I S T I R N C U R I E T R S R W I T H D O A G I C H A I R T A E G A R D E N E O O N D A N I E L

M I S A S A N U O M B N E R E S A R T H

H A R C R O W S B K T A O R A A H U

N N A H I A I S T Y A E N D Y E D O V E R I E L L Y A M E N T I I S E D N C N G E R

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

39 OUR DIOCESE

DIOCESAN EVENTS JULY-AUGUST Joy of Love & Family Conference Series celebrating the Year of the Family. This event is being sponsored by the five Roman Catholic Dioceses of New Jersey. Talks will premiere over six months with topics for every stage of family life. New talks will air the first of each month on July 1, Family Relationships was posted. Speakers include: Jason Evert, Sarah Swaff0rd, Katrina Zeno and Catherine Wiley. August 1, Raising Children in the Faith will be posted. Speakers include: Mike & Alicia Hernon, Enza Cerami, Mark Hart and Bill Donaghy. For a full schedule and details visit, www.lightingheartsonfire@diometuchen.org 8/13 Diocesan Worship Series: Renewed & Restored, 7:30 p.m. Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale. Sponsored by the diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Evangelization. The night includes outdoor Eucharistic adoration, live praise and worship music from the ICC Young Adult worship team, a gospel reading, reflection, confession and a Holy Hour which will end at 9 p.m. Fellowship and a bonfire will follow the Holy Hour. All are welcome--young adults, families, high schoolers, middle schoolers, and people of all ages. The night will give attendees an opportunity to be renewed and restored in Christ’s transformational love. For more information, contact, Megan Vanslot, director of the diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry at mvanslot@diometuchen.org Choices Matter – All Presentations of the diocese’s Choices Matter Virtual Conference Series are available for viewing by visiting: https://www.diometuchen.org/choicesmatter. Presentations delivered at the diocese’s Choices Matter Conference included: Integrity, God’s Plan for sexuality, defending life in the black community, and fighting the legalization of assisted suicide. Each session will challenge you to reflect on why, in each of these areas, our choices matter if we want to build a culture of life and love.

Celebrating Our Neophytes The Pandemic restrictions prevent us from celebrating a Neophyte Mass and reception this year. We would like to honor the Neophytes in another way. They will be receiving an invitation from the diocese to submit a witness statement about their RCIA journey of faith, along with a photo. This invitation will explain that the RCIA office plans to create a “Celebration of Our Neophytes” virtual presentation for our website, and it will also provide some suggestions regarding their statement and photo. Neophytes can send their witness statement and photo to: ssharlow@diometuchen.org Celebrating the Church as a “Family of Families” As we celebrate the Year “Amoris Laetitia Family,” the Office of Communications and Public Relations is compiling a digital family photo album. We invite you to share a photo of your family – a photo of your domestic church by which our local Church of Metuchen is constantly enriched. Please consider sharing your family’s photo with us by sending your photo to communications@diometuchen.org, so we can together bear witness to the love of God through our “family of families.” WEEKLY PODCAST – Am I Not Here? Produced by the staff of the Office of Communications, “Am I Not Here?” – a weekly podcast – highlights the good news within our local Church and those working to minister to the people of the Diocese of Metuchen. New episodes are released each Monday and once aired they are archived. To listen to any episode, or to learn more, please click the links on the diocesan Facebook page or lighting hearts on fire website

BLUE ROSARY GUILD The Office of Family Life is pleased to announce the creation of the Blue Rosary Guild. The purpose of the Guild is for community members of all ages to make pocket Rosaries for law enforcement officers, providing them with support and spiritual strength and promoting devotion to the Rosary among all the faithful. All materials and instructions will be provided and a Zoom virtual tutorial will also be scheduled. Anyone interested should contact Cristina D’Averso-Collins, Director of the Office of Family Life at cdaverso@diometuchen.org.

— Chris Donahue photo

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vocations please pray for

Participants in the annual Independence Day 5K race organized by the Knights of Columbus Council 7250, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Milltown, leave the starting line July 3. The race, which had a theme of “Back With A Bang!” was canceled last year because of the COVID-19 pandemic. A total of 400 participated in the 5K and 75 in a Fun Run. Proceeds from the event support the charitable endeavors of the Council for the parish and the community.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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

Road Runners

RATES

DIOCESAN PROGRAMS Young Couples Bible Study An opportunity to explore the Biblical basis of Catholic beliefs. This virtual group meets Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on zoom. For more information contact: Cristine D’Averso-Collins, director, Office of Family Life Ministry, at cdaverso@diometuchen.org

Introduction of Christianity in the Philippines

OUR DIOCESE

A Quincentennial Celebration On September 20, 1519, Ferdinand Magellan, a Portuguese navigator working for Spain, led the 1st expedition to circumnavigate the globe, via the Paciﬁc Ocean, in search of valuable spices in the Moluccas. Running out of provisions, they landed in Guam, then the Philippines to ﬁnd some replenishments.

gellan Expedition in the Philippines, bringing with them the Sword and the Cross. They 1st set foot in Homonhon (Samar) in search of food and fresh water so they could continue on with their voyage to the Moluccas. At the start, they befriended some of the native chiefs who were receptive to the Christian faith that was introduced to them. ● 3/31/1521 The First Mass in Limasawa (Southern Leyte) celebrated by Fr.

● 3/16/1521 The arrival of the Ma-

Pedro de Valderrama. It was on an Easter Sunday. Rajah Kolambu of Limasawa and his brother, Rajah Siagu of Butuan, were among those in attendance. ● 4/14/1521 The First Baptism in Cebu – From the accounts of Antonio Pigafetta, Magellan’s voyage Chronicler, Fr. Pedro de Valderama baptized about 800 Cebuanos on the very 1st day. These included Rajah Humabon of Cebu and his wife, Humimay. As a

DIOCESE OF METUCHEN FILIPINO APOSTOLATE th

1521 - 2021

Filipinos around the world have joined the Philippine Church in commemorating the 500th Year of Christianization in the Philippines. The year-long celebration officially kicked off on April 17, 2021 in the Philippines and will culminate on April 22, 2022. Pope Francis celebrated Mass on March 14, 2021 in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican, along with Cardinal Luis Antonio Tagle, former Archbishop of Manila, to mark this quincentennial event. The Pope urged Filipinos to renew their commitment to Christ as missionary disciples.

AUGUST

2021 SUNDAY

2:00 PM

ROSARY PROCESSION

2:30 PM

CONFESSION

3:00 PM

DIVINE MERCY CHAPLET

3:15 PM

A PRESENTATION BY THE SANTO NIÑO PRAYER GROUP

4:00 PM

EUCHARISTIC CELEBRATION

Bring your Santo Niño images for blessing after Mass Potluck picnic at shrine grounds after Mass

The National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima

JULY 22, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

674 MOUNTAIN VIEW ROAD, ASBURY, NJ 08802 PRESIDER

ARCHBISHOP GABRIELE CACCIA PERMANENT OBSERVER OF THE HOLY SEE TO THE UNITED NATIONS FORMER APOSTOLIC NUNCIO TO THE PHILIPPINES

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For inquiries, contact Fr. Gerry Paderon (Filipino Apostolate Director) at 609.799.7511 or via email at fgeripdmfa@yahoo.com

FINAL R1 – 07/14/2021

baptismal gift, she received an image of the Santo Nino. ● 4/21/1521 Magellan’s Cross planted in Cebu marked the birth of Christianity in the land. ● 4/26/1521 The Battle of Mactan - Magellan lost his life in a tragic encounter with the troops of Rajah Lapulapu of Mactan. The expedition left the Philippines on May 1, 1521 under the leadership of Juan Sebastian de Elcano who sailed on to the Moluccas, loaded the hulls with spices, continued to sail west, and finally got back to Spain on board the ship Victoria. This is the only ship, of the original 5, that survived the rough voyage; thus, becoming the 1st ship to circumnavigate the globe. ● 1565 The Legaspi Expedition – In February, 1565, forty-four years after the death of Magellan, an expedition coming from Mexico (or New Spain) led by Miguel Lopez de Legaspi reached the Philippines. Among those on board were Fr. Andres de Urdaneta (Spiritual Adviser) and 6 other Augustinian missionaries. Eventually, other religious orders (such as the Franciscans, Jesuits, Dominicans, and Augustinian Recollects) followed for the intensive Christianization process of the islands. Over the years, through the dedication and heroic sacrifices of other missionaries from around the world, the Christian faith continued to prosper. To date, the Philippines with a population of approximately 110M is the only nation in Asia that is predominantly Christian (92%), of which 86 % are Roman Catholics. GIFTED TO GIVE is the theme of the quincentennial celebration of Christianity in the Philippines. The Gift of Faith which was handed down from generation to generation greatly influenced the culture, way of life, and attitude of the Filipinos. May we all continue to share this gift to all of God’s people for generations to come. “Without cost you have received, without cost you are to give” (Mt 10:8)