The Diocese of Metuchen was blessed with the Ordination of Oratorian Father Steven Bolton to the priesthood of Jesus Christ by Bishop Mario A. Aviles, C.O., in St. Mary of Mount Virgin Church of Visitation Parish, New Brunswick, June 29. Read the story on pgs. 4-5. —John Batkowski photo
Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,
For the Fourth of July this year, I was able to enjoy a wonderful visit with family and friends for a BBQ at the shore. Besides my siblings and some of their family members, some of my cousins and priest friends from the Camden Diocese were invited. It was nice to catch up with extended family and friends. I am fortunate to be able to visit with my mother during the year with some regularity after Sunday Masses, and with my siblings, too, but I often cannot find the time to see my cousins and my friends down in South Jersey as often as I would like. Besides the delicious food and beautiful fireworks, it was indeed enjoyable to catch up with the family and friends on the Fourth!
Summer provides time for these types of gatherings, whether it is down the shore, in backyards or enjoying the beauty of the Delaware Water Gap or the Poconos. We have so many wonderful places to enjoy one another’s company and our beautiful natural environment God has provided for us here. I hope you are able to take advantage of the slower times during the summer to gather with family and friends, although it seems there is still plenty going on.
As well as making time for family and friends during summer when hopefully things are a bit less hectic, it is also a good opportunity to make more time for the Lord. Obviously, attending Sun-
day Mass is our most important time with Him, even while on vacation. Sunday Mass gives us the chance to praise and thank God for the blessings of life as well as to be nourished and strengthened by His coming to us anew in the Scriptures and the Eucharist.
Some people have not broken the habit of livestreaming Mass picked up during the pandemic, or do it when they feel tired or just don’t feel like making the effort to go to Mass. Of course, if you are sickly or elderly, this might be a very good option for you and that is why livestreaming is still provided. But if we are not in those categories, we should be attending Mass in person, for our own good and the good of our community of believers with whom we worship. Make this summer a restarting time for you and your family to attend Mass in person, not letting this picked up habit turn into a vice!
Also, during the summer, if you are able, make time to go to a daily Mass and perhaps afterwards even go out for breakfast with family or friends. Extending such an invitation to family or friends is something that no doubt will be appreciated as they get to spend time with you and the Lord!
Of course, this month, I am preparing to go to the National Eucharistic Congress along with 63 pilgrims from our Diocese from July 17-21. Tens of thousands of people will gather for these days in Indianapolis, but no doubt there will be ways to connect during those days on TV or through the internet. It is a wonderful opportunity for all of us to recommit ourselves to the Lord and to receiving Him in the Eucharist and to be grateful for the incredible gifts He gives us in Eucharist. He gives us the divine help we need to be His faithful disciples
in a world where that can be so challenging. He doesn’t leave us alone to figure it out!
I will be praying for you on this pilgrimage and ask you to pray for me too! Also please say a prayer of thanksgiving for our priests who serve here in our Diocese and who work hard in our parishes to provide Jesus in the Eucharist for you as well as any pastoral care you need! May this summer be for them, too, a time to connect with family and friends and also an opportunity to deepen their friendship with Jesus! May the Lord provide us with many more good young men who will make the effort to quiet them-
Newly ordained
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selves and ask the Lord to share His will for their lives, so that we have enough shepherds for our parishes. Know of my love, prayers and gratitude for you, and being so thankful for your kind prayers for me. God bless and enjoy this summertime!
Most Reverend James F. Checchio, JCD, MBA Bishop of Metuchen
Bishop James F. Checchio has announced the following priestly appointments. All appointments are effective July 1 unless otherwise noted.
• Reverend Steven Bolton, CO, newly ordained priest, to Parochial Vicar, Holy Trinity Parish, Bridgewater, and Vice Rector, Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, Raritan,
• Reverend Randy Gamboa Espinoza, newly ordained priest, to Parochial Vicar, Saint Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington,
• Reverend Thien Ban (Joseph) Ho, newly ordained priest, to Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception Parish, Spotswood,
• Reverend Larrydom Magdasoc, newly ordained priest, to Parochial Vicar, Saint Bernard of Clarirvaux Parish, Bridgewater,
• Reverend Dawid Malik, newly ordained priest, to Parochial Vicar, Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, and
• Reverend Van Ai (Peter) Phan, newly ordained priest, to Parochial Vicar, Saint Bartholomew Parish, East Brunswick.
Pastors / Administrators
• Reverend Cyril Offiong, SDV to Administrator, Saint Anthony of Padua Parish, Port Reading, effective August 1,
• Reverend Jason Pavich, from Administrator, Saint Peter the Apostle University and
Community Parish, New Brunswick, to Pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Whitehouse Station, effective August 1, and
• Reverend Michael Tabernero, from Director of Catholic Identity, Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, to Pastor, Saint Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish, New Brunswick, effective August 1.
Parochial Vicars, Teachers, Other Priestly Asssignments
• Reverend Jun Joseph Alquiros, from Parochial Vicar, Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, to Theology Teacher, Immaculata High School, Somerville; Father Alquiros will reside at Our Lady of the Mount Parish, Warren,
• Reverend Keith Cervine, from Interim President, Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, to Executive Secretary, College of Consultors, while remaining as Pastor, Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale,
• Reverend Timothy Eck, II, from Parochial Vicar, Saint Bartholomew Parish, East Brunswick, to Theology Teacher, Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, while remaining as Director, Office of Divine Worship; Father Eck will reside at Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish, South Plainfield,
Continued on page 17
Correction: On pg. 27 of the June issue, Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen, graduate Caeleb Chendorain was incorrectly identified as 2024 salutatorian. Caeleb was actually co-valedictorian with graduate Aryan Jeena. The Catholic Spirit apologizes for the error.
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).
1. Bishop James F. Checchio gathers with members of the Corpus Christi Parish community; Father Damian Breen, pastor, left of the Bishop, and Redemptorist Father Eugeniusz Fasuga, right, who ministers to Portuguese speakers there, during a pastoral visit on June 23. —Marlo Williamson photo
2. Bishop Checchio and Father Andrzej Wieliczko, pastor, spend time with parishioners during a pastoral visit to Holy Trinity Parish, Helmetta, June 30. —Marlo Williamson photo
3. A young parishioner makes his introductions to Bishop Checchio during a pastoral visit to Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords, June 23. —Office of the Bishop photo
By Deacon Patrick Cline Correspondent
Father Steven John Bolton C.O., who grew up in Hillsborough and attended Immaculata High School in Somerville, was ordained to the priesthood as a member of the Confederation of Oratories of Saint Philip Neri on June 29 by Auxiliary Bishop Mario Alberto Avilés, C.O., of the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas, who is also an Oratorian.
“Ordination to the priesthood is not an end, but rather a beginning,” Bishop Avilés said at the Ordination Mass, which was celebrated in St. Mary of Mount Virgin Church, a worship site of Parish of the Visitation, New Brunswick.
Concelebrating the Mass were Msgr. John Fell, diocesan director, Office of Priest Personnel; Msgr. Gerard McCarren, rector, Immaculate Conception Seminary; the priests of the Raritan Oratory as well as priests from other Oratories and from Metuchen and other dioceses.
Father Jeffrey Calia, provost of the Raritan Oratory, called Brother Steven Bolton forward as a candidate for ordination to the priesthood, and Bishop Avilés announced, “We chose this our brother for the Order of the Priesthood.” The congregation then erupted in joy and welcome as a sign of their assent to his election.
In his homily, Bishop Avilés referenced the Gospel for the day, the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul, in which Jesus asked his Apostles, “Who do you say that I am?”
Bishop Avilés said this question was not just for Peter and the others, but also for “our Brother who is to be ordained today to continually recognize and proclaim Christ as the Messiah.”
Then addressing Brother Bolton, Bishop Avilés advised him, “Your success as a priest, as St. Philip showed us, is not to be measured by worldly standards, but by how deep your love for God is and how far and wide is your service to his people.”
Father Bolton’s home parish is Mary Mother of God, Hillsborough, where his parents, Margie and John Bolton, have been active members for 35 years and where he received all his Sacraments of Initiation. He has an older sister and a younger brother.
He attended public schools in Hillsborough and then Immaculata High School, where he graduated in 2011, before entering Rutgers University. After graduation, he worked as a business analyst for two years before he entered Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology at Seton Hall University where he received a Master of Divinity degree.
While at Rutgers, Father Bolton was
1 - Oratorian Deacon Steven Bolton stands in the sanctuary in the Church of St. Mary of Mount Virgin of Visitation Parish, New Brunswick, June 29, before Bishop Mario A. Avilés, C.O., Auxiliary Bishop of the Diocese of Brownsville, Texas, and the congregation who express their assent through their applause to the man who has been chosen for Ordination to the Priesthood.
2 - Bishop Mario A. Avilés, C.O., lays hands on the head of Deacon Bolton, calling down the Holy Spirt on the one to be ordained.
inspired by the witness of the Brothers of Hope and the Oratorian Congregation ministering to the university’s Catholic community at that time. “It was there that through the grace of the Holy Spirit I felt the strong call of Jesus Christ to serve him as a priest,” he said.
Oratorians are a worldwide order of priests and religious brothers who live together in a community not bound by formal vows but by the bond of charity originally established by St. Philip Neri in Rome in 1575.
The Raritan Oratorian Congregation serves four parishes in the Diocese of Metuchen: the Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament and the parishes of St. Ann and St. Joseph in Raritan, and Holy Trinity in Bridgewater.
“Being part of the Oratorian community and knowing that these men I live with, who are truly my brothers, will always be a vital part of my priesthood is a great gift and comfort to me,” Father Bolton said.
Before the final blessing, Bishop
Avilés expressed his appreciation to all those who had made the ordination so beautiful and for all those in attendance.
“A year ago, I had the pleasure of ordaining Father Bolton to the diaconate, and I am grateful to be back in the Diocese of Metuchen today to ordain him to the priesthood,” Bishop Avilés said.
“A privilege of being a bishop is the ability to ordain men to carry on the traditions of the Lord’s followers by ordaining men to the presbyterate in order to build up the Body of Christ by nourishing the community of the faithful,” Bishop Avilés shared.
Father Bolton thanked all the people who had contributed to his vocation and who made the Mass so beautiful. He especially mentioned his parents and his last surviving grandparent, Margaret Adams. “It was the love and example I experienced in the domestic church of my family that allowed me to hear the call of the Lord,” he said.
By Gina Christian, OSV News
(OSV News) – A new study suggests that Catholic belief in the Real Presence may be higher than previous data indicated – but measuring that belief accurately remains a tricky task for researchers.
Regular Mass attendance, however, has emerged as a key factor in determining an individual’s belief in the Real Presence.
On June 3, Vinea Research, a Maryland-based market research firm that focuses on the Catholic Church in the U.S., released “Do Catholics Truly Believe in the Real Presence?” – which concluded that 69% of Mass-going Catholics believe in the real presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. Higher levels of belief correlated with more frequent Mass attendance, Vinea found.
Vinea’s seven-page report revisited a landmark 2019 survey by Pew Research that found only 31% of Catholics in the U.S. believed that “during Catholic Mass, the bread and wine actually become the body and blood of Jesus.” Pew reported at the time that among Catholics attending Mass at least once a week, 63% believed in transubstantiation – the theological term used to describe the change of the Eucharistic bread and wine into the body and blood of Christ – but another 37% believed “the bread and wine are symbols.”
Yet the wording of Pew’s question was problematic, as were the response options, said Vinea founder and president Hans Plate, who has extensive experience in conducting market research for pharmaceutical and health care industries.
The Pew study “actually gave (survey participants) two responses that were both partially correct,” Plate told OSV News.
Pew had posed two questions – one knowledge-based, the other belief-oriented – about the Eucharist. In the first, Pew had asked respondents, “Which of the following best describes Catholic teaching about the bread and wine used for Communion?” and asked them to select if the bread and wine “actually become the body and blood of Jesus Christ” or “are symbols of the body and blood of Jesus Christ.” A percentage of the survey takers indicated they were not sure (10%) or had no answer (1%).
In the second question, Pew asked, “Regardless of the official teaching of the Catholic Church, what do you personally believe about the bread and wine used for Communion?” with participants replying that during the Mass, the bread and wine “actually become the body and blood of Jesus Christ” or “are symbols of the Body and Blood of Jesus Christ.”
Plate told OSV News that “not only did (Pew) phrase the question wrong … but they actually gave (survey participants) two responses that were both partially correct. They weren’t even mutually exclusive. … I don’t think they had
the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate, told OSV News – holds that the bread and wine are “true Presence and symbol at the same time.”
“All sacraments are symbols,” said Father Gaunt, whose organization teamed up with the McGrath Institute for Church Life at the University of Notre Dame for a 2023 national survey on Eucharistic belief among adult Catholics in the U.S.
That report – which found 64% of respondents expressed belief in the Real Presence, based on collective assessments of both open- and closed-ended questions for each participant, with Mass attendance proving significant in positive responses – used questions that “better expressed the church’s teachings around Real Presence and transubstantiation,” wrote McGrath’s associate director for research Timothy O’Malley in an October 2023 commentary.
Vinea’s rewrite of the Pew questions rendered the options for both the knowledge-based and belief questions as “Jesus Christ is truly present in the bread and wine of the Eucharist,” “Bread and wine are symbols of Jesus, but Jesus is not truly present,” or “Not sure.”
The Vinea study split its sample of over 2,000 Catholics – defined as age 18 or older, who attended Mass “at least once,” Plate told OSV News, on a basis ranging from “seldom” to “a few times a year” to “more than once a week” –and administered Pew’s language to half, with the remaining half answering Vinea’s revised questions.
Father Gaunt told OSV News the Vinea study “is confirming pretty much what we found” in the McGrath-CARA study.
“They highlighted again that the issue is the way Pew phrased the question was not clear enough,” said Father Gaunt. “And so when you correct for that, you get a very different response rate.”
But Gregory A. Smith, associate director of research at Pew, told OSV News his firm’s question phrasing “has a number of strengths,” as it “gives people two plausible alternatives to choose from.
“That’s really important because of something survey researchers call ‘acquiescence bias,’” whereby respondents, given a choice to either agree or disagree with a statement, “tend to prefer to express agreement rather than disagreement,” explained Smith, who has not studied the Vinea findings.
Smith also said the Pew questioning is “quite neutral,” which is “very important.”
“I am aware that there have been some other surveys that have added a clause to the second statement … modifying the second statement so that it would be (to the effect), ‘The bread and wine symbols of the body and blood of Jesus Christ, but Jesus is not really present.’ We would not ask that kind of question, because you’re asking Christians to deny the real presence of Jesus. … I would be concerned that (phrasing) would cue respondents into a particular kind of answer that they might think the researcher is looking for.”
Smith said that even with Pew’s wording aside, “more crucially, the patterns that we see in our data are meaningful … and they’re what you might expect to see, if you assume that practicing Catholics are going to be the most likely
to believe in the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist. That is exactly what we see in our data.”
Both he and Plate cautioned their studies were not directly comparable, given the differences in sampling (selecting a subset of a given population for research) and weighting, which ensures the sample accurately reflects the makeup of the larger population.
Vinea noted in its report that Pew’s sampling approach of “probability sampling” is “the gold standard method for obtaining a representative set of survey respondents.” In contrast, Vinea worked with ThinkNow, a consumer panel company.
“However, the magnitude of difference in results does allow us to make inferences between the two approaches,” the Vinea report said.
More broadly, researchers may find themselves increasingly having to account for how Catholics in the U.S. identify themselves as such, given polarization within the church and in society.
More than a decade ago, Brian Starks – a sociologist of religion at Kennesaw State University who specializes in the study of Catholic identity – noted that greater in-depth research was needed on self-identification terms such as “traditional,” “moderate” and “liberal” Catholic, since such identities represent “self-understood divisions within the Catholic Church, and serve to institutionalize intrafaith conflicts.”
Gina Christian is a multimedia reporter for OSV News. Follow her on X (formerly Twitter) at @GinaJesseReina.
By Ben Akers, OSV News
“Love is inventive to infinity.”
These words were spoken by the patron saint of the parish my family attends: St. Vincent de Paul. The saint was reminding a brother priest who was on his deathbed that divine charity is always creative in making God’s presence known.
In no way is this more evident than in Jesus’ gift of love to his church, the Eucharist.
The truth of this phrase, uttered almost 400 years ago, has manifested itself at our parish during the National Eucharistic Revival. Both the pastor and the parish community have been “inventive” in increasing Eucharistic devotion over the last several years. These simple additions can be implemented in any parish to the same effect.
Upon his arrival, the pastor’s love for our Lord in the Eucharist was evident through his words and deeds. We regularly received faith-filled catechesis on topics related to the worship of God at Mass. He instructed us on the significance of the church’s design, the meaning behind the holy vessels used in the liturgy and the formative nature of the music we sing. He accompanied these teachings with stories from the heroic lives of the saints who displayed their belief in the Real Presence.
His witness continued through his deep reverence during the celebration of the Mass. For example, even his pause for a brief personal thanksgiving after distributing holy Communion and purifying the sacred vessels has been imitated by the altar servers and parishioners. In evidence of his own love for our Lord and the mercy he offers, Father exposes the Blessed Sacrament in between two of the Sunday morning Masses while he hears confession during that same time – and there is always a line! There has been a noticeable increase in attendance at Mass, especially from young adults and from families with young children.
When my pastor first arrived at the parish, one of his first initiatives was to open an adoration chapel. Through generous donors, a parish meeting room was repurposed into a beautiful space. The intimate setting is conducive to prayer and quickly became a peaceful refuge for parishioners and other local Catholics. I recently heard the story of a young agnostic man who was encouraged to sit in the adoration chapel and “pray like a Catholic.” This challenge, along with God’s grace, led to his conversion to the Catholic faith this past Easter Vigil.
young children – stocking the back of the chapel with crayons, coloring pages with images from that week’s Gospel readings, and kids’ Bible books.
One of the great fruits of this past year was the establishment of Family Adoration Night through the initiative of three married couples in the parish. Once a month at 5 p.m., Father exposes the Blessed Sacrament and then heads into the confessional. Over the next 30 minutes there is silent time, a Gospel reading, short meditation, a decade of the rosary and singing – all accompanied with many additional kids’ noises. After Benediction, the evening continues with dinner and fellowship.
If I had to lay out the key ingredients which mark the event’s success, I would include the prayerful atmosphere, a regularly scheduled event (pick the same Sunday each month), the clear time limit on adoration, a supportive priest, and, of course, the free dinner. This is all structured around worshiping Christ in the Blessed Sacrament.
Personal invitation and word of mouth also drive the fruitfulness of the event to bring in new families – some who have never attended adoration, some that have fallen away from the faith, and some that are looking for a faith-based community.
From my own witness in my parish’s revival, I’m drawn to ask what parish community would not benefit from these simple yet creative ideas, born of love for Christ’s presence in the Eucharist? For, “love is inventive to infinity.”
Ben Akers is the chief content officer at the Augustine Institute and has represented the same organization on the National Eucharistic Revival Executive Team.
By Michael R. Heinlein, OSV News
In preparation for my son’s first holy Communion this spring, we naturally spent a lot of time talking about grace. The mysterious workings of grace in our lives – or even what grace is – were fodder for interesting conversations between this father and his then-almost-7-year-old.
Together we endeavored to wrap our minds around grace. And despite having a few more decades pondering the topic than he, invariably I’d learn just as much from our reflections – particularly as I had to think through concepts anew and make them understandable in my feeble attempts to satisfy his precociously inquisitive mind.
We’d talk about how the sacraments were necessary for salvation and gave us the grace we needed to live like Christ. We’d talk about how God loves us so
Knowing that parents with young (and playful!) children might feel unwelcome in the small adoration chapel, on a parishioner’s suggestion, Father dedicated Sundays in the chapel to families with
much he gives us grace as the supernatural help we need to persevere in our call to be holy. We’d talk about how grace, as the Catechism puts it, “is a participation in the life of God” (No. 1997).
I could see in our lessons and my son’s regular interrogations on the subject – even in the grocery store line or on the kneeler after I received holy Communion – that his eyes were opening to supernatural realities. But I also understood that he wanted answers I couldn’t give. He was particularly interested in the practical – always wanting to know how Eucharistic grace would impact him, how it would show up in his life, how it would make his life different.
While the answers to questions like that were only answerable in God’s way and in God’s time, I could speak to him about the goal of sacramental grace. About how each sacrament has its own circumstances and its own character, but how ultimately they all serve the purpose of allowing Christ to live in us.
I’d talk about how in the Eucharist, Christ comes to dwell in us, how he feeds us with his body and blood so that we might be like him. I’d mention how the Eucharist is a sacrament that could be received daily. It is a supernatural nourishment for us to overcome our daily sins, to persevere daily in virtue, and to allow Christ to increase in our mind, in our will and in our hearts a little bit more each day.
I’d talk about how the Eucharist is a gift Christ gives us to change us to such a degree that our lives are meant to be a continual return of that most precious gift. I’d talk about how the Eucharist gives us the strength to overcome temptations and sins, to protect us in the daily battle of good versus evil in our lives.
Now, as any parent might know, you don’t know what is absorbed when these kinds of serious conversations are had with a youngster. Like most boys his age, my son’s mind can easily wander from whatever the task at hand might be – especially when the task at hand
Article 188 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series
Paragraphs 2846-2849
When people hear the word “temptation,” many automatically assume it refers to sexual temptation, since such temptation can be unrelenting. Over the years, this kind of temptation, not without its shame factor, has taken on numerous forms with the introduction of the internet and social media. Gone are the days when the temptation to view pornography meant leaving the comfort of one’s home and traveling, perhaps outside one’s neighborhood, to acquire illicit material. In our present culture, this industry has become a multi-billion dollar business. It now takes only a matter of seconds, in the privacy of one’s own home, to view such filth. No wonder this sin has become such a horrible blight on society.
There are many other kinds of temptation, though, like the temptation to bear false witness, or use illicit drugs, or lie or cheat, or misuse alcohol, or overeat or gossip (particularly on Facebook or other social media).
One great temptation is the pursuit of money. Of course, we all need money to live and we need to save funds for any re-
sponsibilities that may arise in the future. However, one important question to reflect on when pursuing riches is this: What will the real cost be to you? Saint Paul wrote to Timothy: “For the love of money is the root of all evils, and some people in their desire for it have strayed from the faith and have pierced themselves with many pains” (1 Timothy 6:10). Perhaps the “many pains” Saint Paul refers to are captured previously in Sacred Scripture as follows: “Whoever loves money never has enough; whoever loves wealth is never satisfied with their income. So guard your heart against the deceitfulness of wealth” (Ecclesiastes 5:10).
Recently, a woman spoke with me about the temptation of rescuing horses for the specific purpose of making a quick buck by immediately placing the acquired animal up for auction. She apparently did not need the money, but wanted to see how much she could amass. I wondered whether she considered the real cost to both herself and, more particularly, to the original owner. Many do something similar with houses, when people are unable to pay their mortgages.
Opportunities to be tempted are all around us. In fact, it can be argued that there exists a hierarchy of temptations, some not so serious, and others very serious, being unethical, immoral or both.
The Catechism warns: “Our sins result from our consenting to temptation; we therefore ask our Father not to ‘lead’ us into temptation” (CCC 2846). Of course, God can never “lead us” into sin or into temptation. God always “wants to
set us free from evil [and so] …we ask Him not to allow us to take the way that leads to sin” (CCC 2846). We ask that He help prevent or otherwise not lead us into the temptation to sin.
Discernment, with the help of the Holy Spirit, enables us to distinguish between trials “which are necessary for our interior growth” and temptation “which leads to sin and death” (CCC 2847). The same Holy Spirit assists us in discerning “between being tempted and consenting to temptation” (CCC 2847). And, lastly, “discernment unmasks the lie of temptation, whose object appears to be good, a ‘delight to the eyes’ and desirable, when in reality its fruit is death” (CCC 2847).
The next paragraph of the Catechism explains that this petition of the Lord’s Prayer implies “a decision of the heart” (CCC 2848). In fact, “such a battle and such a victory become possible only through prayer. It is by His prayer that Jesus vanquishes the tempter, both at the outset of His public mission and in the ultimate struggle of His agony” (CCC 2849). In point of fact, “Christ unites us to His battle and His agony” in this petition to Our Father in Heaven. “He urges us to vigilance of the heart in communion with His own” (CCC 2849).
Our Blessed Lord’s constant call is that we be united to Him in all things, in every circumstance of our lives. When we embark upon temptation, often feeling isolated and teetering on feelings of disgust, our loving Savior provides the best of prayers that we might offer to the Father of all. We are not left to wallow in
our sin, but are given the means to avoid it: “Lead us not into temptation.” In fact, Sacred Scripture even counsels married couples: “Do not deprive each other, except perhaps by mutual consent for a time, to be free for prayer, but then return to one another, so that Satan may not tempt you through your lack of self-control” (1 Corinthians 7:5).
This petition of the Our Father earnestly pleads that God’s Spirit of discernment and strength places us on the path that leads us away from temptation and the destructive power of sin. The tempter is always Satan, the evil one. Under no circumstances can God ever be the source of our temptations. Rather, He is the One who helps, “lead us not into temptation”!
“God cannot be tempted by evil and He Himself tempts no one; on the contrary, He wants to set us free from evil” (CCC 2846). Nonetheless, we are engaged in the battle “between flesh and spirit” (see Matthew 26:41). As stated in Scripture, in the Garden of Gethsemane before His crucifixion, when the apostles kept falling asleep, Jesus warned, “The spirit is willing, but the flesh is weak” (Matthew 26:41). Saint Paul tells us in his Letter to the Romans: “You, however, are not in the realm of the flesh, but are in the realm of the Spirit, if indeed the Spirit of God lives in you. And if anyone does not have the Spirit of Christ, they do not belong to Christ” (Romans 8:9).
In short, this specific petition of the Lord’s Prayer “implores the Spirit of discernment and strength” (CCC 2846) to watch over, help and support the one seeking God’s assistance.
Father Hillier is director, diocesan Office of Pontifical Mission Societies, the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Censor Luborum.
By Carol Glatz Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Pope Francis formally recognized a miracle attributed to the intercession of Blessed Carlo Acutis, a 15-year-old Italian teenager whose birth in 1991 will make him the first “millennial” to become a saint.
In a meeting May 23 with Cardinal Marcello Semeraro, prefect of the Dicastery for Saints’ Causes, the Pope signed decrees advancing the sainthood causes of Blessed Acutis, as well as one woman, and six men.
The Vatican announced May 23 that the Pope had signed the decrees and that he would convene a consistory to set a date for the canonization of Acutis and other future saints: Blesseds Giuseppe Allamano; Marie-Léonie Paradis of Québec, Canada; Elena Guerra; and eight Franciscan friars and three Maronite laymen who were martyred in Damascus, Syria, in 1860.
The miracle Pope Francis recognized
May 23 that paves the way for the blessed’s canonization involved a young woman who was born in Costa Rica in 2001 and moved to Florence in 2018 to study.
The woman fell from her bicycle at 4 a.m. July 2, 2022, and suffered a serious head injury, according to the dicastery website. Even after emergency surgery re-
moving part of her skull to reduce severe intracranial pressure, doctors warned her family she could die at any moment.
An associate of the young woman’s mother began praying to Blessed Acutis the same day, and the mother went to Assisi and prayed at the blessed’s tomb July 8 -- the same day the young woman began to breathe on her own again. She slowly recovered basic mobility and a CT scan showed the hemorrhage was gone. After a period of rehabilitation therapy and a complete recovery, she and her mother visited his tomb Sept. 2.
Pope Francis has urged young people to learn about Blessed Acutis, who “did a great deal of good things,” despite his short life.
“Above all, he was impassioned by Jesus; and since he was very good at getting around on the internet, he used it in the service of the Gospel, spreading love for prayer, the witness of faith and charity toward others,” the Pope told young Italians Jan. 29.
“Prayer, witness and charity” were
the hallmarks of Blessed Acutis’ life and should be a key part of the life of every Christian, he said.
In February 2020, the Pope formally recognized a miracle attributed to Acutis’ intercession and in October that year, the teen was beatified during a Mass at the Basilica of St. Francis. An estimated 117,000 pilgrims visited the teen’s tomb in just the first year after his beatification, the Diocese of Assisi said the day before his feast day, Oct. 12, 2021.
Blessed Acutis was born and baptized in London to Italian parents in 1991, but the family moved back to Milan, Italy, while he was still an infant. After he started high school, he began to curate, create or design websites, including one for a local parish, for his Jesuit-run high school and for the Pontifical Academy Cultorum Martyrum, according to the saints’ dicastery. He also used his computer skills to create an online database of Eucharistic miracles around the world. He was devoted to Our Lady, praying the Rosary every day, and to the Eucharist.
By Adriana Molina Guillen Correspondent
On Saturday, May 25th, the Hispanic community from the Diocese embarked on a heartfelt pilgrimage to the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima. Organized by the Office of Hispanic Evangelization, this annual event gathered many on a beautiful, sunny day for an encounter of friendship, prayer and devotion on sacred grounds.
This pilgrimage has been a cherished tradition for many years, offering a space where people can encounter Our Lady of Fatima’s message of prayer, repentance and conversion. The Eucharistic presence of our Lord is the heart of the shrine, and the Holy House Chapel serves as the centerpiece of the retreat center. The Holy House Chapel is a scale replica of the Holy House of Loreto, the home of the Holy Family in Italy, constructed with stones from the original Holy House mixed into the mortar. It is truly a privilege for us in New Jersey to
have such a sacred site close at hand.
The day’s program was filled with Adoration, Reconciliation, the Holy Rosary and Holy Mass. For many, including myself, it was a first-time experience joining the Hispanic community on this faith journey. The day began with a holy hour featuring music from the charismatic diocesan group, allowing us to immerse in the Lord’s presence. Confessions were offered in different areas of the garden, preparing us for the day’s events. The community then prayed the Rosary, walking through the Rosary Garden adorned with inspiring images. Amid 150 acres of scenic farmland, the mysteries were recited with deep devotion. Lunchtime brought everyone together to share traditional foods, enhancing the sense of community and fellowship.
Eugenio and Teresa Porras, who have served in many parishes in our Diocese for over 20 years and currently worship at the Parish of Saint John the Evangelist in Dunellen, described the day as a small retreat for the soul, a time to come home
Left, Our Lady of Fatima statue is carried on a bed of flowers as part of the Hispanic community pilgrimage to the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima May 25.
Bottom right, parishioners from St. John the Evangelist, Dunellen, including, from left, Mirna Mendez, Javier Britez, Jeysi Montes, Maria Bravo, and Eugenio and Teresa Porras relax on the grounds of the Blue Army Shrine.
Bottom left, Priests and deacons integral to the pilgrimage included, from left, Deacon Fritz Molina, Deacon Sergio Diaz, Father Gustavo Rodriguez, Father Nicolas Norena, and Deacons Jose Vidal, Jose Miguel Suarez and Edgar Chaves.
—Adriana Molina Guillen photos
to the Lord and reconnect with friends. It is a spiritual family journey.
Mirna Mendez and Audelio Chapano, proclaimers of the Word from Saint John the Evangelist Parish, shared how much they have enjoyed the peace and joy of coming with their family over the past four years. They experience God’s presence in the surrounding nature while walking to the Chapelina, a replica of the chapel at Fatima where Our Lady appeared. This chapel houses an image of the Pilgrim Virgin statue used in Fatima processions. Many light candles here, including Mendez and Chapano, placing their intentions and trusting in our Mother’s intercession.
The beautiful gardens feature images of our Blessed Mother in various avocations. In these serene moments, observing families growing in faith and feeling the breeze and sunshine, we felt the presence of the Lord and our Blessed Mother rejoicing with us as we lived our faith together as a community.
The pilgrimage concluded with a
joyful and reverent Mass, presided over by Father Nicolas Norena from the Holy Name of Jesus Parish. Father Gustavo Rodriguez and Deacon Edgard Chaves, co-directors of the Hispanic Office of Evangelization, along with Deacons Sergio Diaz, Fritz Molina, Vidal Gonzalez, and Jose Miguel Suarez, also served during the Mass.
Deacon Sergio Diaz delivered the homily, reflecting on a powerful moment in the Gospel where Jesus questions, “Who are my mother and my brothers?” This profound declaration about the nature of God’s kingdom emphasizes the inclusivity of his love. Jesus teaches us that the gift of God present in him transcends the privileged bonds of blood relations. He redefines family as those who do the will of God, forming connections of true, limitless love. This new family of God reaches out and embraces the most excluded, marginalized and poor among us, embodying the essence of the Christian community – a family united by love and commitment to God’s will.
By Mary Morrell, Editor-in-Chief
The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, known by its Latin name, Corpus Christi, is celebrated universally because of the unrelenting efforts of St. Juliana of Liège, whose devotion to the Blessed Sacrament led her to advocate for the establishment of a feast celebrating the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
It wasn’t until after her death that Pope Urban IV declared the solemnity of Corpus Christi, establishing a universal, obligatory feast, and assigning St. Thomas Aquinas to compose the liturgical texts to accompany it.
Eucharistic processions began shortly after the declaration and have continued throughout the years. Pope St. John Paul II reflected on the popular tradition, saying, “Our faith in the God who took flesh in order to become our companion along the way needs to be everywhere proclaimed, especially in our streets and homes, as an expression of our grateful love and as an inexhaustible source of blessings”
St. James Parish, Woodbridge, held their annual Corpus Christi procession on June 2, processing from St. James Church to St. Joseph’s Senior Home, Woodbridge, and, as they walked, praying for Church and country. Vocationist Father Thomas Naduviledathu, pastor, asked those in procession to lift the flags they received at the start of the procession as they prayed.
Members of the Order of Malta and the order of the Holy Sepulchre were invited to join the procession by a member parishioner, each wearing their respective regalia.
To learn more about the Feast of Corpus Christi visit www.simplycatholic. com/celebrating-corpus-christi/
both the U.S. flag and the Vatican flag, reminders to pray for Church and the country.
By Adriana Molina Guillen
En el marco de la celebración del National Eucharistic Revival, el sábado 1 de junio en la Iglesia Santa María, Parroquia de la Visitación, en New Brunswick, se celebró por segunda vez la Vigilia Especial de Corpus Christi, un encuentro con Jesús Sacramentado. La noche comenzó con la misa de vigilia de la solemnidad de Corpus Christi, celebrada por el Padre Gustavo Rodríguez y el Diácono José Miguel Suárez, seguida de la exposición del Santísimo Sacramento, lo cual marcó el inicio de una noche de adoración y alabanza.
La Vigilia contó con cuatro espacios de Lecturas guiadas y escucha de la Palabra, realizadas por cuatro miembros de los misioneros, escogidas para la oración y meditación frente a Jesús Eucaristía. Cada lectura fue seguida por espacios de silencios sagrados que finalizaban con música de adoración, esta última a cargo de los músicos y coro de la parroquia liderado por Joel Guzmán.
Este evento, en su segundo año de realización, es organizado por Los Misioneros del Santísimo Sacramento de la parroquia, invitando a toda la comunidad del área de New Brunswick.
Telma Manzilla, quien forma parte de los misioneros del Santísimo, describe esta noche y esta Vigilia como parte del maravilloso regalo y del ministerio que Dios nos encomienda en la tierra de acompañar, ofrecer y disfrutar de la presencia de Jesús Sacramentado. La importancia de esta noche especial radica en el vínculo esencial entre reverenciar la Eucaristía y servir a los hermanos y hermanas, como nos lo pide el Santo Padre.
Telma agrega que es un bálsamo para el alma ver a hermanos y hermanas que aman al Señor o quieren saber más de Jesús presente en el Santísimo
Sacramento del altar. Ver la luz de Jesús que se cierne sobre nosotros, penetra nuestro interior y nos transforma, ver gente emocionada, que sale alegre, radiante y agradecida, y continúa su camino de vida y de fe sabiendo que Jesús está presente.
José Villanueva, quien también forma parte de los misioneros del Santísimo Sacramento, describe su misión como un ministerio de todos y para todos. Promover la adoración, alabanza y comunión con el Señor presente en el Santísimo Sacramento del altar, ofreciendo formación a la comunidad dos veces al mes cada martes, conferencias, retiros cortos, conciertos y otras iniciativas para promover y alentar a la comunidad a la adoración Eucarística, es para ellos una misión de discipulado y servicio.
La Parroquia, los misioneros del Santísimo Sacramento y la comunidad parroquial invitan cada semana a la comunidad en general a la Adoración Eucarística los viernes a las 7:30 pm luego de la misa, para ese reencuentro personal con Jesús, reconociéndole a Él como alimento de vida, sacrificio y presencia real en el Santísimo Sacramento. El último viernes de cada mes, los jóvenes son invitados a participar y dirigir la Adoración Eucarística para conocer y crecer en la Presencia de Jesús en la Eucaristía. Los Misioneros del Santísimo ofrecen formación dos veces al mes cada martes noche, conferencias, retiros cortos, conciertos y otras iniciativas para promover y alentar a la comunidad a la adoración Eucarística.
Para Milagros Cerliu, quien forma parte del coro de la parroquia, expresa que fue un espacio que brindó un tiempo de mirarle y que Él me mire, de quietud, de paz compartida, de sosiego en su luz, de compartir juntos como pueblo de Dios con el Hijo presente en el altar.
A Ministry of All for All: Jesus Alive and Present in the Holy Eucharist
As part of the National Eucharistic Revival celebration, on Saturday, June 1, St. Mary’s Church, Parish of the Visitation, in New Brunswick, hosted its second annual Special Corpus Christi Vigil, an encounter with Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament. The night began with a vigil Mass for the solemnity of Corpus Christi, celebrated by Father Gustavo Rodríguez and Deacon José Miguel Suárez, followed by the exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, marking the beginning of a night of adoration and praise.
The vigil featured four segments of guided readings and listening to the Word, conducted by youth and members of the missionaries, chosen for prayer and meditation before Jesus in the Eucharist. Each reading was followed by sacred silence, culminating in worship music performed by the parish musicians and choir, under the direction of Joel Guzmán.
This event, now in its second year, is organized by the Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament of the parish, inviting the entire New Brunswick community. Telma Manzilla, a member of the missionaries, describes this vigil as part of the wonderful gift and ministry that God entrusts to us on earth: to accompany, offer, and enjoy the presence of Jesus in the Sacrament. She emphasizes the essential connection between revering the Eucharist and serving our brothers and sisters, as the Holy Father calls us to do.
Manzilla added that it is a balm for the soul to witness brothers and sisters who love the Lord or seek to know more about Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament of the altar. She described the profound impact of seeing the light of Jesus shine on and within us, transforming us from the inside. Observing people leave excited, joyful, and thankful, continuing their journey of life and faith with the assurance that Jesus is with them, is deeply touching.
José Villanueva, another member of
the missionaries, describes their mission as a ministry of all and for all. Their mission is promoting adoration, praise, and communion with the Lord present in the Blessed Sacrament of the altar. They offer formation sessions twice a month on Tuesday evenings, along with conferences, short retreats, concerts, and other initiatives to promote and encourage Eucharistic adoration. To help the community grow in faith and in the presence of Jesus in the Sacrament, is for them a mission of discipleship and service.
The parish, the Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament, and the parish community invite everyone to Eucharistic Adoration every Friday at 7:30 pm, after Mass, for a personal encounter with Jesus, recognizing Him as the bread of life, sacrifice, and real presence in the Blessed Sacrament. On the last Friday of each month, young people are invited to participate in and lead Eucharistic Adoration to know and grow in the Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.
Milagros Cerliu parishioner and part of the Choir group shared that the vigil provided a time to look at Jesus and let Him look back, a time of quiet, shared peace, and rest in His light. It was a time for God’s people to come together with the Son present at the altar.
5. The faithful from Visitation Parish, New Brunswick, and the surrounding Catholic community gather in St. Mary Church, New Brunswick for their second annual Special Corpus Christi Vigil, beginning with Mass celebrated by Father Gustavo Rodriquez and followed by a night of adoration and praise. —Courtesy photo
6. Visitation Parish Missionaries of the Blessed Sacrament, organizers of the annual Corpus Christi Vigil, are pictured with Father Gustavo Rodríguez and Deacon José Miguel Suárez, front row. —Courtesy photo
opportunity for ‘harmony, communion and joy‘ for young choristers
By Mary Morrell, Editor-in-Chief
Is there anything more beautiful than the sound of children’s voices?
Pope Francis had the opportunity to reflect on the experience as he addressed participants in the IV International Meeting of Choirs June 8, a gathering that included many young choristers.
In his opening remarks the Holy Father shared, “Have you seen that the spontaneity of children speaks louder than the best of speeches? Children are like that, they express themselves as they are. We must take care of children because they are the future, they are hope, and they are also witnesses to spontaneity, innocence and promise. That is why Jesus said that he wanted children to come close,” reminding listeners of Jesus’ invitation to “Let the children come!”
The Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi extends that same invitation to all rising 3rd to 8th grade students, from any parish within or outside the Diocese, for their second annual Summer Choir Camp which runs from Aug. 12-16.
Each day students will participate in choir rehearsals, music theory classes with the Camp’s outstanding music
faculty, work on composer projects and raise their voices in song for the Cathedral’s daily 12:10 Mass. Plus, each chorister will have an opportunity to play the Cathedral’s pipe organ.
Weather permitting, there will also be fun outdoor activities, as well as games and snacks.
The importance of choirs and choral music, to both the liturgy and the choristers of all ages who fill them, was described by the Holy Father through three aspects: “harmony, communion and joy.”
For children these aspects translate into learning how to listen, to study, to work together in harmony, to discover and develop their God-given gifts, and use their voices to pray.
If this joyful, inspiring and educational experience as part of a faith community is something you would like for your child, find more information and register using the QR code. Deadline for registration is July 30.
By Bob Ferretti, Special Contributor
“Greater,” a new customizable and downloadable Confirmation retreat resource created by ProjectYM for teens in 8th-12th grade, was introduced June 22 in a workshop hosted by the diocesan Office of Discipleship Formation for Children and held in the St. John Neumann Center, Piscataway.
Crystal Marchand from ProjectYM led the demonstration, showcasing the versatile applications of “Greater” to help bridge the gap between 8th-grade CCD programs and Youth Ministries.
The event attracted 20 parish catechetical leaders and youth ministers, all eager to explore the potential of this innovative tool. Jill Kerekes, director of the Office of Discipleship Formation for Children, emphasizing the importance of effective and engaging resources for youth formation.
“Greater” offers a comprehensive range of activities and sessions designed to deepen the faith and understanding of young people as they prepare to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. The resource includes 12 talks and resources grouped into four key themes: Greater Love, Greater Power, Greater Living, and Greater Mission. Each session is supported with detailed session guides, discussion materials, engaging games, and more, making it a flexible and valuable asset for catechetical leaders and youth ministers.
The content under each theme is meticulously crafted to resonate with teens. The “Greater Love” sessions focus on how God is in love with us. He wants
to be in a relationship with us and has always been faithful. We are the ones that have fallen, rejected Him, and said “no”. But God never leaves us or gives up.
“Greater Power” emphasizes that the Holy Spirit is the same yesterday, today, and tomorrow – and He continues to move in power in our world, in our Church, and in our daily lives. In “Greater Living” we look at examples of Saints who lived discipleship in their everyday lives and offer suggestions on how to build healthy habits. “Greater Mission” encourages them to embrace their role in the Church’s mission, what it means to be on mission, and how do we know if we are doing it “right”. These thematic sessions ensure a holistic approach to Confirmation preparation, addressing both the spiritual and practical aspects of faith.
Filippini Sister Ella Mae McDonald, parish catechetical leader in St. Ann Parish, Raritan, expressed her enthusiasm, stating, “I can’t wait to use this stuff. I want to do ALL of it!” Her excitement was shared by many attendees, who recognized the potential of “Greater” to enhance their youth programs.
Kerekes highlighted the resource’s role in the Confirmation preparation process, saying, “This is a great transition tool to use for 7th and 8th graders as they prepare to fully share in the outpouring of the Holy Spirit when they receive the Sacrament of Confirmation. Every PCL and youth minister should have access to ‘Greater.’ There are so many ways to use this evangelization resource!”
To kick off the morning, Bob Ferretti, youth minister in St. Joseph Parish, Hillsborough, led a discussion on the
Parish catechetical leaders and youth ministers take advantage of the opportunity to share ideas about their ministries and a new Confirmation retreat resource created by ProjectYM during a June 22 workshop hosted by the diocesan Office of Discipleship Formation for Children and held in the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway. —Bob Ferretti photo
use of games in ministry and on retreats, emphasizing the importance of games in dispelling the nerves of young attendees, building a sense of identity, and satisfying teens’ competitive spirit. Ferretti pointed out that games are not just about having fun; they play a crucial role in helping teens feel more comfortable and open during retreats. This sense of ease can lead to more meaningful participation and deeper spiritual engagement.
Several games included in the “Greater” resource were demonstrated
and played by the PCLs and youth ministers during the workshop. These games, designed to be both entertaining and spiritually enriching, include icebreakers and team-building activities. The interactive nature of these games helps to create a dynamic and engaging environment, fostering a sense of community and belonging among the teens.
For more information about “Greater” and other resources from ProjectYM, visit https://projectym.com/.
By Mary Morrell Editor-in-Chief
The gift of the Cursillo Movement has long been acknowledged by popes and bishops worldwide throughout its 75 year history.
Pope St. John Paul II acknowledged that “the Cursillo method aims at helping to transform in a Christian way the milieus where people live and work through the involvement of ‘new men and women’ who have become such from their encounter with Christ. This is the goal of a three-day ‘little course’ on Christianity, in which a team of priests and lay people, supported by the prayer and sacrifices of the movement’s other members, communicate the fundamental truths of the Christian faith in an especially ‘living’ way. ”
Pope Francis has described Cursillistas as those who “step out of their comfort zone and have the courage to reach all the suburbs that need the light of the Gospel.”
In the Diocese of Metuchen, the Cursillo Movement will be hosting a
Men’s Cursillo Weekend (retreat) beginning Thursday evening, Oct. 17 and ending Sunday afternoon Oct. 20 in the Loyola Retreat Center, Morristown. The retreat rector will be Ken Wolfram, post-cursillo chairperson, and member of Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords.
Bill Grippo, diocesan Cursillo lay coordinator and member of St. Matthias Parish, Somerset, explained, “The Cursillo Movement is a lay apostolic movement of the Roman Catholic Church and is a worldwide effective method for growing Christianity within our daily environment to keep Christ as the center of our life through Piety, Study and Apostolic Action.” He shared that “Bishop Checchio has been most encouraging to both men and women to consider gaining more information about a Cursillo weekend for spiritual growth.”
Those interested in learning more, and for registration, should visit metcursillo.org where an application may be downloaded and emailed to contact@ metcursillo.org.
Weekend to be held Oct. 17-21. —Gerald Wutkowski Jr. photo
By Jim Brogan, Special Contributor
The N.J. amateur radio Knights from all five dioceses in New Jersey recently operated amateur radio stations statewide under a special amateur radio call sign, K0C (K-zero-C) with the dual intent of sharing the Knights of Columbus’ many accomplishments and encouraging Catholic men that it’s a great time to join the Knights.
The project, known in amateur radio lingo as a “Special Event Station (SES),” ran May 4 through May 18, and was very successful. K0C made 1,461 contacts into 195 countries and six continents over the 15 days of the Special Event Station. Hundreds of Knights’ success stories reflecting accomplishments, donations of time and money were broadcast via amateur radio during those 15 days. In addition, a demonstration station during the 128th New Jersey State Convention in Wildwood was in operation.
The Knights may also be operating a SES in support of the Supreme Convention in Quebec from August 4-8; Commemoration of the birth, death and feast day of Blessed Michael J. McGivney; Columbus Day weekend October 12-14 as well as October 31st to November 2nd, the Anniversary of Beatification of Blessed McGivney by Pope Francis in 2020.
Our goal again will be to promote goodwill and fellowship on the amateur radio bands. We make contacts with amateurs from all over the United States as well as the world. We exchange our names, location and information about the Knights of Columbus.
Any amateur radio operator within the Diocese who might be interested in learning more about the N.J. Amateur Radio Knights of Columbus may contact Jim Brogan, W2UM, at broganjp@ gmail.com.
Jim Brogan, who is a member of Blessed Sacrament Parish, Martinsville, has been a member of the Knights of Columbus in “Our Lady of the Hills Council” #5959 Martinsville for 30 years.
Right, this QSL card shows the location of the KOC special event station and information about the event. Amateur radio operators collect QSL cards that they exchange with one another as confirmation of their conversation. The cards contain contact information, pictures and the station’s call sign.
Below, Knight James Brogan mans his amateur radio station in Martinsvile using transmitting and receiving equipment needed to communicate with other amateur radio operators in the United States and around the world. Brogan was first licensed in 1965 and holds an amateur Extra Class License governed by the Federal Communications Commission (FCC) which allows him to operate his station. His call sign is W2UM. —Courtesy photos
By Mary Morrell, Editor-in-Chief
The Catholic Spirit and the Office of Communications & Public Relations were recognized June 21 during the 2024 Catholic Media Conference with five Catholic Media Awards. The Catholic Media Awards honor outstanding achievements in Catholic journalism, communications, and other forms of media. These awards aim to highlight and honor the efforts of individuals and organizations that excel in portraying Catholic teachings, values, and stories in a compelling and authentic manner.
The Catholic Spirit was awarded:
Best Front Page for Diocesan Newspaper
- First Place for its: Three-Part Series –Judges wrote of the winning series: Eye-catching and inviting. Creative fonts tailored for each issue. Images and words superbly in sync, with each element conveying the same message.
The Office of Communications and Public Relations was awarded:
Best Press ReleaseHonorable Mention Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, Offers Hope During Mental Illness Awareness Week, Gerald Wutkowski, Jr., Assistant Director of Communications, and Tiffany Workman, Communications Specialist.
The regular column, “Real Presence,” was an initiative of Bishop James F. Checchio who invited recently ordained priests in the Diocese to write a column sharing their insights, perspectives and suggestions for increasing understanding of and devotion to the Eucharist in the parishes. The column ran from June 2023
Sept. 21, 2023, Roots and Wings, created by Mary Morrell, Peter Nguyen with photo by Tara Smith;
Best Regular Column (Spiritual Life) - Third Place
Real Presence: Three Part Series
Father Joseph Illés, Father Timothy Eck II, and Father Matthew Marinelli
to June 2024 to coincide with the Year of Parish Revival – year two of the National Eucharistic Revival.
Five diocesan priests were recognized for their submissions to this column, with Father Illés column, ‘My Sacrifice and Yours:’ Gift of Presence in the Mass, the first in the monthly series.
Oct. 19, 2023, Joy in the Lord, created by Mary Morrell, Peter Nguyen with photo by Gerald Wutkowski, Jr.;
Hot Topic - Eucharistic RevivalHonorable Mention Eucharistic Revival
Father Ariel Bautista Jr., Peter Nguyen, Graphic Designer, and Msgr. Joseph Kerrigan
Father Marinelli’s column, Devotion to Mary nurtures devotion to the Holy Eucharist, ran in October, and Father Bautista’s column, Remember, understand, strengthen Eucharistic devotion ran in August.
Father Eck’s “Real Presence” column, Why did Christ institute the Eucharist?
Nov. 16, 2023, Living for God, created by Mary Morrell, Peter Nguyen with photo by Hal Brown.
Best Use of Graphics (Best Original Illustration)Honorable Mention
Parish Eucharistic Adoration, Aug. 2023 issue, pg. 7. Peter Nguyen, Graphic Designer
won under the Hot Topic category of Eucharistic Revival, along with Msgr. Joseph Kerrigan’s reflective piece entitled, ‘Eucharistic Revival, I’d like you to meet Season of Creation,’ both of which ran in the September issue. Msgr. Kerrigan serves as pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Community, Bound Brook.
By Sarah Greydanus Special Contributor
July has the striking distinction of three feast days commemorating saintly parents of saintly children: Joachim and Anne, parents of Our Lady (July 26); Sts. Louis and Zelie Martin (July 12); and the recently beatified Ulma family (July 7). This month might be considered the month of the Catholic family.
The Catechism of the Catholic Church contains a rich summary of what a Christian family can and should be: “A wholesome family life can foster interior dispositions that are a genuine preparation for a living faith and remain a support for it throughout one’s life.” The family is a place for planting and nurturing the seeds that, by God’s grace, grow into a thriving, lasting faith. The same paragraph presents parents’ vocation as an apostolate, by which children first hear the Lord’s invitation: “Through the grace of the sacrament of marriage, parents receive the responsibility and privilege of evangelizing their children.”
Variations on this idea are often expressed in a much simplified form. In popular Catholic culture, one sometimes hears that parents’ duty, even their most important duty, is to “get their children to heaven;” I have heard more than one homily to this effect. At first glance this statement and the Catechism’s appear the same, but something is missing. To “foster interior dispositions”—that is, to encourage and support ways of thinking and living—is not the same as “getting” a person somewhere. If I am responsible for getting someone somewhere, I need to prepare them, transport them, and generally manage the process of transit.
As Catholics, we know that reaching salvation never works like this for anyone over the age of reason; no one is
A statue of Mary and her parents, Sts. Joachim and Anne, is seen at the Basilica of Ste.-Anne-de-Beaupre in Ste.Anne-de-Beaupre, Quebec, in 2017. —OSV News photo/Gregory A. Shemitz
escorted to heaven by someone else. Nor do I think it likely that a given homilist, writer, or other well-intentioned commentator speaking of “getting one’s children to heaven” would say if questioned that the above is the case.
Nonetheless, hearing language like this over and over, suggesting (or even stating) that a person’s salvation depends entirely on how he/she is raised, can lead parents to agonies of frustration and guilt: frustration because attempts to direct a child’s whole life often lead to battles of wills as the child matures; and guilt if the child turns against his upbringing after all. Every reader likely knows devout parents whose adult, or even adolescent, son or daughter has stopped attending Mass. To watch one’s child go astray is devastating enough; the impulse to wonder, “What did we do wrong?” comes without prompting. If parents’ duty is to control the outcome of their children’s lives, how heavy the weight of guilt becomes.
The reality, though undoubtedly difficult, is shot through with hope.
The difficult aspect is that which I have been deeply moved to see devoted parents face again and again: Nothing, not even the holiest, most loving family, can guarantee the course of any person’s life. St. Monica, so often credited with the conversion of her son, would be the first to say that she could not have made Augustine do anything. One of Padre Pio’s sisters abandoned her faith as an adult; the two had the same upbringing.
The hope that endures through this struggle comes from God’s grace. He does not leave you, dear parents, to question and struggle alone; He gives you all the graces to be the father or mother that your children need. He also gives to your children, whether still little or already adults, the graces to hear and follow His voice.
He does not compel them to accept His grace; no one can ensure that they will use it well; but they have all they need. He longs to see them and you become saints, even more than you do; and He knows how to draw each soul toward Himself. Ultimately, family life, like any vocation, calls for that most beautiful and difficult of virtues: trust in God.
Sarah Greydanus, based in Bloomfield, is an author and currently serves as managing editor, Homiletic & Pastoral Review.
By Cori Urban, Contributing Editor
The editor-in-chief of The Catholic Spirit has been named president of the board for the Foundation for the Institute of Jewish Christian Studies in Seton Hall.
Mary Morrell, who returned to The Catholic Spirit in June 2023 after 25 years, this time as editor-in-chief, received a master’s degree in Judeo-Christian Studies in 2003 from the university.
“I was drawn to the master’s program in Jewish-Christian Studies because of my early high school experiences with Jewish friends, and I saw in the invitation to join the board of the Foundation in 2015 the opportunity to continue to promote peacebuilding through education,” she said. “I would encourage others who feel a similar call, especially during these very challenging times, to consider this enriching and fulfilling program.”
According to Father Lawrence E. Frizzell, director of the Institute of Judaeo-Christian Studies and associate professor of the Jewish-Christian Studies Graduate Program at Seton Hall, Morrell was selected to be board president because “she is experienced in our work and has a wide knowledge of the Church in New Jersey.”
Established at Seton Hall in 1953 by Monsignor John M. Oesterreicher, the Institute of Judaeo-Christian Studies is the oldest institution in the world dedicated to Jewish-Christian Studies. From its beginning, he continued to foster a positive understanding of Judaism and the Jewish people among Christians through lectures in the United States and Europe and through research and book and journal publications in English and German. He launched the world’s first Jewish-Christian Studies Graduate Program at Seton Hall University in 1975.
Father Frizzell, Monsignor Oesterreicher’s colleague and successor, has carried out the mission of the institute since 1993.
One of the greatest accomplishments, said Father Frizzell – who has
been associated with the institute for 50 years – is building on the work of Msgr. Oesterreicher in the master’s program to promote the education of the younger clergy and other educators in promoting the 16 documents of the Second Vatican Council and subsequent texts of the Church’s teaching, as well as sharing with other Christians, Jews and all people of goodwill to promote justice and peace.
“Now the institute and the master’s program continue to acknowledge the need for divine guidance as we strive to make a small contribution toward the future of a world in desperate need,” Father Frizzell said. “Much great work is being done in many places, for which we are grateful. We look forward to the success of sincere efforts to solve these problems.”
Under Father Frizzell’s guidance, the institute continues to make a significant local, regional and global impact in the world. As it celebrates its 70th anniversary, those involved look forward to advancing and strengthening Jewish-Christian relations among a new generation of scholars, theologians, educators and students who are committed to promoting universal peace through their shared values, practices and traditions.
During the past 30 years, Morrell, who is a syndicated columnist, has worked for the Dioceses of Metuchen and Trenton, as well as RENEW International in the areas of religious education and communication. She is a correspondent for Vermont Catholic magazine and formerly the Catholic Review in the Archdiocese of Baltimore. She has also served as a long-term writer and blogger for RCL Benziger Publishers.
Among her more unique experiences, Morrell recounts, was serving as a member of the global team of transcribers of Dorothy Day’s personal diaries and writings as part of the process for Day’s canonization and writing a video presentation for renowned actor Martin Sheen.
For more information on the Institute of Judaeo-Christian Studies go to shu.edu/ judaeo-christian-studies/our-history.html
During my last year as pastor of St. James Church in Basking Ridge, a group of us decided to make a pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela in celebration of the parish’s 150th anniversary.
From Lisbon, where we celebrated Mass in the church erected over the home where St. Anthony was born, to the Chapel of Apparitions in Cova de Iria, or “Hill of Peace,” in Fatima, where the Blessed Mother appeared to three young shepherds in 1917. We were known as “The Church of St. James on the Camino de Santiago.”
From the Monastery of the Jeronimos, which houses a beautiful museum to Batalha, which was once a fortress but now stands as a symbol of Portuguese tenacity, we prayed. From the University of Coimbra, to the canals of Aveiro where fishermen in flat-bottom boats (now used to give tourists rides) would bring salt and fish ashore, to the city of Porto, with its great devotion to John the Baptist, its Port wines and bustling business district and own Soccer team, we saw a country with a rich history.
Yet we also visited a land suffering from an economic crisis forcing over 300,000 to leave the country for better
We need to look beyond what our eyes can see
Some years ago, we had a visit from a bishop from Italy. We had exchanged letters with him, and when he was in this country visiting people from his diocese, he stopped by our Carmel to visit us also. We invited him into the enclosure to come and bless our bees, and the priest who was our chaplain at the time came with him as his companion. The priest was a communications specialist, and while with the bishop he played the role of paparazzo, taking endless photographs of the bishop, the nuns and the gardens.
One of the photographs would have made a marvelous vocations illustration. It showed me in the garden, my head profiled against the sky with the trees and flowers in the background and my gaze lost in contemplation of an invisible horizon. It was the perfect picture of a cloistered nun enveloped in the presence of God.
I certainly hope that I hadn’t totally forgotten the presence of God, but I do
opportunities outside of the borders. We visited Braga, “the Rome of Portugal,” where we celebrated the Eucharist in the Church of the Bom Jesus or “Good Jesus,” the most visited shrine in Northern Portugal; we prayed.
Through the miles we traversed, about the length of the state of Indiana, we came to appreciate just how the Blessed Mother has always had a deep affection for the people of Portugal and Spain, long before Fatima. Legend holds, in fact, that when James first arrived in Iberia, he met with a lot of resistance in his attempts to convert the pagans to Christianity. James was losing heart and tempted to return to Jerusalem, but Mary appeared to him in La Coruña, and told the Apostle to keep on evangelizing because, she said, “the faith of these people will be as hard as the rock on which you are now standing.”
He did as Mary instructed, and the faith took root and spread like wildfire. Content that he was ready for another apostolic assignment, James returned to Israel only to be martyred by Herod. His disciples, however, decided to bring his mortal remains back to Spain – and when
boat carrying his remains washed ashore in the town of Padrón, conch shells lay upon the shores like a carpet to welcome the Apostle back to his home away from home.
His coffin along with many conch shells, were then carried forty kilometers to Santiago, where it was decided that his mortal remains should be enshrined in the “field of stars” or “Compostela.”
There a basilica was built to house the mortal remains of St. James, but the town is actually called Santiago which simply means “St. James.”
Be they walking or riding, pilgrims wear a conch shell bearing the Cross of St. James or they tie it to their backpacks. The red Cross of St. James painted on each shell resembles an upside-down sword, the instrument by which he was martyred and the color “red,” the blood James spilled in witness to his faith.
The conch shell reminds us of how James’ body was returned to Spain in a boat which washed ashore along a rocky and dangerous coast laden with shells.
Even before the construction of the Basilica of St. James, in the sixth century, pilgrims came to Santiago to venerate
the tomb of this Apostle. Why? To ask for miracles, to beg for a healing for loved ones, to perform penance for one’s sins, to acquire a plenary indulgence. I do not pretend to know the motivating force of our pilgrims who accompanied me to Santiago; regardless, this pilgrimage was a gift from God.
St. James’ ministry did not end in Spain. His scope is global. In parishes bearing his name, this patron saint inspires all who call on him to be Church, to make known the saving love of Jesus and the vigilance of his Immaculate Mother. The pilgrimage to Compostela is one which this writer and priest will never forget. I can still see the smoke billowing from the enormous censor which swings across the sanctuary of St. James Basilica in Compostela. I can still see the waves of the ocean not far from that holy land. And I am reminded daily of the courage, acuity and zeal of this great Apostle who continues to draw people to Jesus, Lord and Savior of the world.
Father Comandini is coordinator of the Office for Ongoing Faith Formation
remember exactly what I was thinking at that moment: I was fishing for a tissue so that I could blow my nose.
Now there is nothing contradictory about nuns blowing their noses and being in the presence of God. In fact, it shows that we are human and that everything we do, even blowing our nose, can be done in the presence of God and can lead to our sanctification. Still, it is not what most people would automatically think when seeing that photograph. The photo looks exactly like what one would imagine a saintly contemplative nun to look like. Blowing one’s nose rather topples the saintly image from its pedestal. This is a good thing. In fact, at my sol-
emn profession, Bishop Edward Hughes made sure that the people who were in the chapel for the Mass understood that they mustn’t put us on pedestals. At the end of the Mass, he said a few words to the congregation, telling them, “You know that the nuns here pray for you, but you also must pray for them: they aren’t as holy as they look.”
Now please don’t get him wrong. We aren’t pretending to be holy or leading a double life or anything like that. We aren’t as holy as we may look, but we are TRYING to BECOME holy. We aren’t yet a group of St. Thereses, but God is still working on us, and we are hopefully saints in the making. In the same way,
that homeless man sleeping on the sidewalk is not another St. Benedict Joseph Labre, but God is working on him, and we trust that he too is another saint in the making. Appearances are deceiving and they can distract us from the reality that God is always at work in each of us to make us the saint he means us to be. We need to see with the eyes of faith, and that means that we need to see with the eyes of our heart.
I read a mid-Eastern fairy tale in which, as in some of the best fairy tales, the prince was on a quest, and during that quest he was tested in various ways. In one of the tests, he met a man who held two children on his lap: one was a hideously ugly and deformed child, and the other was radiantly handsome. The prince was asked, “Which child is the more beautiful?” Acting on the advice of a sage, the prince gave the right answer: “The one that the heart loves is the more beautiful.”
The same advice was given to another prince, who was also on a quest. In Saint-Exupery’s “The Little Prince,” the wise fox tells the prince, “It is only with the heart that one can see rightly; what is essential is invisible to the eye.”
We need to learn to see with our hearts. The more we see with our heart the more we will see, and the more we will see truly.
Sister Gabriela of the Incarnation is a member of the Discalced Carmelites order in Flemington. Learn more at www. flemingtoncarmel.org.
Bishop James F. Checchio has announced the following priestly appointments. All appointments are effective July 1 unless otherwise noted.
Continued from page 2
• Reverend Joseph Illes, from Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception Parish, Somerville, and Director of Catholic Identity, Immaculata High School, Somerville, to Advanced Studies, Catholic University of America, effective June 1,
• Reverend Wilson Jerusalem, released from ministry as Parochial Vicar, Saint Philip and Saint James Parish, Philipsburg, to return to his home diocese,
• Reverend Imre Juhasz, at the request of his Archbishop, released from service as Parochial Vicar, Holy Family Parish, New Brunswick, and Coordinator of the Diocesan Hungarian Apostolate, while continuing to offer Mass and other Sacramental Ministry to the Hungarian community at Holy Family Parish, effective August 1,
• Reverend David Keyes, to Director of Catholic Identity, Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, while continuing as a Theology Teacher at that same high school,
• Reverend Vibin Kollannur, SDV, from Parochial Vicar, Saint Cecelia Parish, Iselin, to ministry as assigned by his religious order,
• Reverend Oliver Lacorte, released from ministry as Parochial Vicar, Saint Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, Bridgewater, to return to his home diocese, effective June 10,
• Reverend Jose Lim, from graduate studies, Pontifical North American College and the Pontifical University of the Holy Cross, Rome, to Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale,
• Reverend Matthew Marinelli, from Parochial Vicar, Saint Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington, to Parochial Vicar, Parish of the Visitation, New Brunswick, and part time Chaplain, The Catholic Center at Rutgers,
• Reverend Ignatius Okoroji, SDV, to Parochial Vicar, Saint Cecelia Parish, Iselin,
• Reverend Gustavo Rodriguez Perez, from Parochial Vicar, Parish of the Visitation, New Brunswick, to part time Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception Parish, Somerville, while remaining as Coordinator of Hispanic Evangelization,
• Reverend Fredy Triana Beltran, CO, from Parochial Vicar, Immaculate Conception Parish, Spotswood, to Parochial Vicar, Saint Philip and Saint James Parish, Philipsburg,
• Reverend James Tucker, from Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords, to Catholic Chaplain, Parker at Somerset, while continuing in ministry in the Tribunal; Father Tucker will reside at Our Lady of Peace Parish, North Brunswick, effective October 1, and
• Reverend Ronal Vega Pastrana, from part time Theology Teacher, Immaculata High School, Somerville, to part time ministry in the Office of Hispanic Evangelization while continuing as Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Bernardsville.
Bishop Checchio has also granted retirement status to the following priests at their request:
• Reverend Robert Gorman, effective June 15,
• Reverend Kenneth Kolibas, effective October 1,
• Reverend Leonard Rusay, effective August 1,
• Reverend William Smith, effective August 1, and
• Reverend Michael Venditti, effective July 1.
By Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY (CNS) – The working document for the October assembly of the Synod of Bishops on synodality called for responses to how all the baptized can better serve the Catholic Church and help heal humanity’s “deepest wounds.” The document said the synod should spur the church to become a “refuge” and “shelter” for those in need or distress and encourage Catholics to “allow themselves to be led by the Spirit of the Lord to horizons that they had not previously glimpsed” as brothers and sisters in Christ. “This is the ongoing conversion of the way of being the Church that the synodal process
invites us to undertake,” the document said. The 30-page document, called an “instrumentum laboris,” was released at the Vatican July 9. It will serve as a discussion guideline for the synod’s second session Oct. 2-27, which reflects on the theme: “How to be a missionary synodal Church.” The reflections are the next step in the synod’s overarching theme: “For a synodal Church: communion, participation and mission.” Synodal practice “calls us to mutual care, interdependence and co-responsibility for the common good,” it said, and it is willing to listen to everyone, in contrast to methods “in which the concentration of power shuts out the voices of the poorest, the marginalized and minorities.”
The second annual Family and Friends Night hosted by Life Choices, Metuchen, June 20 at the Somerset Patriots Ballpark, was a fun-filled night of baseball, fireworks, hot dogs, ice cream and even a balancing act. Father Matthew Marinelli, parochial vicar, and the Home School Group from St. Magdalen de Pazi Parish, Flemington, joined the 170 people who attended from around the Diocese.
By Cristina D’Averso-Collins Special Contributor
Following a recent viral speech which touched on many sensitive issues, I found myself overwhelmed with a barrage of reactions and messaging. Knowing that I work for the Church, some reached out to me to ask my thoughts. This prompted me to investigate the matter more closely.
What I concluded disappointed those on both “sides” of the issue. To me, the issue at hand was not about support or condemnation or even the particular speech at hand. It was and is far bigger than that. What many in our society are genuinely grappling with is what is means to be a wife, mother and a woman, in general.
In the Catholic sphere, these are even more pressing questions as we realize the eternal weight of all such decisions. Our vocation matters and getting it “right” weighs on us heavily. We desperately seek guidance when dealing with the delicate matters of man, woman, parenthood and childrearing and this is the arena where commentators enter to offer guidance on how precisely to get it “right.”
On the one hand, we have those who advocate for becoming a “girl boss,” having it all and juggling career, marriage and children. On the other, we have the “domestic goddess,” baking her own bread while keeping a perfectly orderly house, and everything in-between. To be clear, all of these can be good, to a certain extent. This is not a condemnation of any of these choices. The problem, rather, is when strong opinions on either side of the spectrum lead to what I call, “Womanhood™,” with each side possessing its own set of tenets and claims to definitive authority.
Within Catholic circles, a particular brand can be easily theologized, even if not directly in alignment with what our Church teaches. More than ever, as Catholics, we must be able to hone in on the beautiful truths about woman that our Church gives us. Only in doing so, can we effectively navigate the external chatter and be able to discern what must be received and what must be discarded.
Perhaps a good place to start is in looking to the history of our Church and the many female saints who are held up as paradigms of holiness. To name a few, we have women such as St. Catherine of Sienna, St. Joan of Arc, St. Edith Stein and St. Gianna Molla (notwithstanding our Blessed Mother, Queen of the Angels and Saints!).
These women are striking in their uniqueness and evade any particular “box” or category. They are united, however, in their ability to discern God’s call for them and to live according to their particular missions, as mediated by their gifts and talents. They exemplify what St. John Paul II called, “the feminine genius.”
Though difficult to define, JPII explained that women possess certain gifts
that enable them to prioritize human beings over “things” and external accomplishments. This ability to focus on the centrality of the human person is expressed particularly through gifts such as receptivity, sensitivity and maternity, to name a few. Certainly, this does not mean that men do not or should not cultivate such qualities, but, rather, that women most naturally and often effortlessly embody these qualities since they are written into the very fabric of womanhood.
A woman’s very body is created
The contribution of women, in fact, is so vital to society that Pope St. Paul VI once stated that “women impregnated with the spirit of the Gospel can do so much to aid humanity in not falling.”
Pope St. John Paul II further echoed and emphasized this sentiment by claiming that “without the contribution of women, society is less alive, culture impoverished, and peace less stable…” Far from reducing women to certain roles in society, both St. John Paul II and St. Paul VI emphasize the vital importance of the feminine genius in shaping the whole of culture.
Women in relationship with Christ are able to bring their uniquely feminine gifts into a world which desperately needs holy examples of femininity. Furthermore, and more fundamentally, the gifts of woman are needed in order to make those in our world more seen, known and understood for who they are irrespective of what they do.
To bring us back to our earlier question of what it means to be a woman, or more specifically, a Catholic woman in 21st century society, we must move beyond the categories imposed by superficial and reductive discussions from secular and (even some Catholic) media and get to the heart of the matter.
As women, we are given the task of discerning how best to use our gifts for the good of humanity as so many saints and holy women have done before us. We must realize that our contributions to society may look different and that that is ok. There is no “one size fits all” when it comes to Catholic womanhood, provided that we are faithful to our particular vocations.
God has created us uniquely and it is through our relationship with him that we are able to discern how we may best flourish. On a personal note, I have often been struck by the thought that we tend to devalue the small, hidden contributions of both women and men in favor of “greater” things.
with the capacity to receive and to bear new life itself. While physical motherhood perhaps most readily comes to mind, this ability to give life is not simply restricted to those blessed with children. Rather, all women are called to exercise maternity proper to their particular state in life. Just as our Blessed Mother discerned the needs of the couple at Cana, so too are women called to be attentive to the needs of the human person and to bring the light of Christ into the various circumstances of everyday life.
The quiet sufferings of a mother suffering from sleeplessness, for instance, are not inferior to those of someone in a more publicly influential role. However, the opposite is also true. Catholic women are not called to aspire to hiddenness if they are called to do something more public. A friend of mine once told me that “some people have public gifts and some people have private gifts.” Both are needed to build up the kingdom of God and no suffering or sacrifice is wasted. It all depends on one’s particular mission from God. We must move beyond Womanhood™ and remember that both Therese of Lisieux and Joan of Arc are saints experiencing the joy of heaven. They had the courage to embrace their unique callings and our world has been forever changed. For all of the women reading this, I pray that you are able to do the same, for as St. Paul VI states, “it is for you to save the peace of the world.”
Cristina D’Averso-Collins serves as diocesan director, Office of Family Life.
Pope Francis poses for a photo with children outside the Rome parish of St. Bernadette Soubirous where he met with teenagers and young adults for an edi tion of his “School of Prayer” initiative May 24, 2024. Above, Pope Francis listens to a question during a meeting with about 80 teenagers, young adults and Scouts at the Rome parish of St. Bernadette Soubirous for an edition of his “School of Prayer” initiative May 24, 2024. —CNS photos/Vatican Media
One teen’s pilgrimage becomes an inspiration for many
In 2020, young Álvaro Calvente couldn’t contain his excitement. At 15, the disabled teen from Málaga, Spain, was ready to embark on a parish pilgrimage along the Camino to Santiago de Compostela, the famed pilgrim’s path stretching over 60 miles that leads to the tomb of one of the Twelve Apostles, St. James the Great. Each year, he would look forward to the annual youth pilgrimages with his parents, Ildefonso and Raquel, who are members of the Neocatechumenal Way and among the adults accompanying young people from the parish. Then COVID-19 gripped the world and put a hold on all travel plans.
When travel restrictions eased up, Ildefonso and a parish friend made the pilgrimage with Alvaro, documenting it on social media and racking up followers quickly – with Pope Francis among them. The Calventes recently made their fourth journey to the shrine. The first day they were joined by an ultramarathon runner who “wanted to meet Álvaro,” Ildefonso Calvente recalled. “He accompanied us for the first 20 kilometers (12.4 miles), then ran back. Can you imagine that?” He added, “In every town we passed through, the bells would ring, the mayors would come out to greet us, and the whole town would be in the streets.”
By Cindy Wooden Catholic News Service
ROME (CNS) – Dropping in on a parish meeting of teens and young adults, Pope Francis responded to their questions about prayer and encouraged them to build relationships of support as they searched for meaning in their lives.
The Pope’s late afternoon visit May 24 to the Rome parish of St. Bernadette Soubirous was not announced in advance by the Vatican, although word had spread through the neighborhood and hundreds of people were gathered outside to greet Pope Francis.
The visit was the second appointment of his “School of Prayer,” a series of visits he intends to make during this Year of Prayer in preparation for the Holy Year 2025. The visits are coordinated by the section of the Dicastery for Evangelization that is organizing the Holy Year.
Inside a church hall, about 80 teenagers, young adults and Scouts gathered with the Pope. He began by telling them he had a prepared speech, but it was “boring” so he would just listen to them and answer their questions, according to a Vatican News reporter.
A young man “confessed that he did not believe in God,” the Dicastery for Evangelization said in a summary of the meeting. In response, “the Pope recalled the importance of setting out on a journey. ‘No one should be condemned if they do not believe,’” the Pope said.
However, the Pope told him, it is
important to set out and search for meaning. “If I see a young person who doesn’t move, who sits there in life, who doesn’t like to move, it is bad,” but if someone is brave enough to step out, even if the person falls, “I take my hat off to him. Move for an ideal.”
Responding to a question from a young married couple, Pope Francis spoke about his worry over Italy’s declining birthrate and, pointing to a toddler named Benedetta who was running around the room, the Pope said, “this is hope – children.”
“It’s true that when you think about the future, there is a risk,” the Pope said, according to Vatican News, “but there is more of a risk in not having children. It’s a social risk.”
A young man named Tiziano asked the Pope how he should go about understanding what his vocation is.
“Each one of us must ask this question,” Pope Francis replied, “because the Lord has a plan for each of us. Each one must try to understand what the Lord wants from us, ask him.”
The Pope also spoke about the importance of young people cultivating friendships and relationships with people they can trust.
“Sometimes we can get lost in the labyrinths of life,” the Pope told them. “The main way to get out of a dark moment is to not walk alone because alone we lose our bearings. It is important to talk about one’s situation.”
—OSV News photo/courtesy Ildefonso
The parish community of St. Helena, Edison, New Jersey, warmly congratulates Fr. Joseph M. Kubiak on his 50th anniversary of his Anniversary of Priestly Ordination
“I am grateful to him who has strengthened me, Christ Jesus our Lord, because he considered me trustworthy in appointing me to the ministry.” TIMOTHY 1 : 12
THE PARISH FAMILY OF OUR LADY OF PEACE, NORTH BRUNSWICK OFFER OUR PRAYERFUL BEST WISHES TO OUR BELOVED RETIRED PASTOR REV. JOHN V. POLYAK ON THE OCCASION OF HIS 55TH ANNIVERSARY OF ORDINATION 1969-2024
The Parish Family of St. Mary’s of Czestochowa, Bound Brook, NJ, congratulates Reverend Father John Stec on the 50th Anniversary of his Ordination to the Priesthood.
Ksiedzu Janowi Stec z okazji zlotego jubileuszu swiecen kaplanskich serdecznie gratulujemy i zyczymy wielu lask, pokoju, radosci i sil do kontynuowania poslugi.
“I can do all things through Christ who strengthens me.”
PHILLIPIANS 4 : 13
The parish family of Blessed Sacrament, Martinsville, sends prayerful good wishes to Msgr. Eugene Prus on the anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood.
As each one has received a gift, use it to serve one another as good stewards of God’s varied grace.
1PETER 4:10 TH
to our founding pastor Father Joseph L. Desmond on his Fiftieth Anniversary of Priestly Ordination
Ad Multos Annos
MOST HOLY REDEEMER CHURCH, OLD BRIDGE
Please join The Catholic Spirit in honoring those priests who are celebrating 25, 40, 50 or more years of service to God and the Church.
Father Mark F. Kehoe marked his 25th anniversary as a priest on May 29. After serving as parochial victor at five parishes, he was appointed administrator in 2018 before being installed as pastor in 2021 by Bishop James F. Checchio at St. Lawrence Parish, Laurence Harbor.
Born in Bristol, Pa., to Jerome P. Kehoe Sr. and Marian A. Kehoe, Father Kehoe was raised in Pennsylvania, where he attended Catholic schools throughout his entire education. After graduating from St. Mark Ephrem School, Bristol, he attended Bishop Egan High School, Fairless Hills.
He earned a Bachelor of Arts Degree in Religious Studies at Holy Family College, Philadelphia. After college, Father Kehoe taught at Catholic high schools in the Philadelphia area. He also worked for The Trentonian newspaper in Trenton.
In 1995, having discerned that the Lord was calling him to the priesthood, he entered Holy Apostles Seminary, Cromwell, NY, where he earned a Master of Divinity Degree.
Father Kehoe was ordained in May 1999 to the priesthood by the late Bishop Vincent De Paul Breen at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen.
Father Kehoe said his most memorable moments as a priest have been when, “comforting and anointing those who are sick and dying. These can be very sad moments, but they are also edifying to a priest.”
When asked about challenges he has faced as a priest, Father Kehoe responded “trying to do the right thing all the time and understanding people the best you can.”
When asked about his decision to join the priesthood he said, “Obviously
your family is the one that helps you form ideas and then after a while you just stay with God the best you can. He will let you know what he wants you to,” adding that becoming a priest “is really what God wants you to do.”
“Obviously, we (himself and God) were in sync at that very moment,” he said, for him to become a priest. “(There is) that one moment that you [get] called and you just have to go by faith after that.”
He said for someone considering a priestly vocation, “obviously you have to pray” about it. He said he would direct them to the Diocesan vocation director.
“I can encourage them, but once they get into the formation (process for the priesthood) they should follow that,” he said.
Father Kehoe said someone considering a priestly vocation thinks about this decision in grade school, high school and college. And then, “maybe you will have a crisis of faith and God calls you to the priesthood.”
He acknowledged that as pastor at St. Lawrence Parish, where he is the only assigned priest, it is important that he listens to his parishioners. He said a pastor must work to form a parish the way the Catholic Church wants it to be formed by using “common sense” and not to rely on personal opinion.
Prior to his assignment at St. Lawrence Parish, Father Kehoe served as parochial vicar at Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords, from 1999-2001; parochial vicar at Sts. Philip and James Parish, Phillipsburg, from 2001-2005; parochial vicar at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Lambertville, from 2005-2006, Our Lady of Fatima. Piscataway, and St. Mary’s Parish, Alpha.
By Paul J. Peyton, Correspondent
Father Slawomir Romanowski, 52 years old, has served God’s people in several countries during his 25 years as a Redemptorist priest, an order dedicated to missionary work. His greatest hope, he said, is “to bring more people to God!”
Father Romanowski, the oldest of three children, was born in Tarnow, Poland, to Krystyna and the late Jozef Romanowski. His mother lives in Nowa Jastrzabka. His brother, Wieslaw, lives in the United States, and his sister, Barbara, resides in Nowa Jastrzabka. Father Romanowski said his family “is proud of my vocation.”
He attended elementary school in Nowa Jastrzabka and high school in Tarnow. Father Romanowski entered the Seminary of the Redemptorists in Krakow in 1992, earning a Master’s degree in moral theology. In 1995, he made his first vows to The Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, and in 1998, he professed his final vows. At the Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Tuchow, Poland, he was ordained to the priesthood in 1999 by Bishop Tadeusz Goclowski.
His first assignment as an associate pastor was in Our Lady of Consolation Parish in Wroclaw, Poland, from 1999 to 2002. Father Romanowski served as associate pastor in the Basilica of the Visitation of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Tuchow from 2002 to 2005. He was the associate pastor in Holy Cross Parish in Christiansted, the United States Virgin Islands, from 2006 to 2009.
From 2009 to 2016, Father Roma-
nowski served as associate pastor of Christ the Redeemer Parish, Manville. He ministered to Polish immigrants as associate pastor at the Parish of St. Ann in Copenhagen, Denmark, from 2016 to 2019, and was appointed pastor of St. John Paul II Parish in Perth Amboy in 2019, where he currently serves.
Father Romanowski feels that consecrating the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus, absolving penitents of their sins, and “having many brothers and sisters around the world” are the most rewarding aspects of being a priest. At St. John Paul II Parish, daily Confession is offered before every Mass. Father Romanowski said that Redemptorist priests always make Confession readily available and evangelize by preaching.
Redemptorists foster devotion to Our Lady of Perpetual Help who is their Patroness. There is a weekly novena to her at St. John Paul II Parish and a daily recitation of the Rosary. Father Romanowski said, “We all have to understand that she is our Mother. Without her intercession, we can do nothing. I hope more people will get this idea.”
St. John Paul II Parish is multi-lingual with Masses in English, Polish, Spanish and Portuguese. Father Romanowski explained that he meets this challenge by “trying to be as flexible as I can.”
He said, “For most of the years of my priesthood, I have served abroad, far from my family and my country. I think this is my biggest accomplishment because it is not easy.”
Father Romanowski quoted St. John Paul II in advising someone considering a vocation to the priesthood: “Don’t be afraid! If you hear His voice – follow Him.”
By Marianne Komek, Correspondent
battle, which we are losing,” Father Slaby said. “So a holy priest is a treasure. A priest’s life is like a chasuble: The priest is bigger than that, always bigger than we are.”
As for new priests, he advises not to be afraid. “If God called you for it, go for it. Don’t let the world discourage you,” he said.
He says that a vocation is like a marriage between husband and wife, only it is between the priest and God, and the people, who must work to make a vocation successful.
Father Stanislaw Slaby, pastor of Christ the Redeemer Parish in Manville, celebrated his 25th anniversary to the priesthood on May 22.
He was born in Zeleznikowa Wielka, a village in southern Poland, to Jozef and Emilia Slaby. One of 10 children, he and two brothers, Jozef and Maciej, are members of the Redemptorist order. Jozef is bishop of the territorial prelature of Esquel, Argentina.
Father Slaby entered the Pontifical Academy of Theology, Rome, and then the Major Seminary of Redemptorists in 1992 and professed his final vows to the Congregation of the Most Holy Redeemer, or the Redemptorists, in 1998. He was ordained into the priesthood on May 22, 1999.
He served as assistant priest at Most Holy Redeemer Parish in Szczecin, Poland, from 1999 to 2005, and was reassigned to Saint Lucia in the Virgin Islands, where he was appointed assistant priest at Holy Cross Parish in the town of Desruisseaux. He was named pastor there in 2006 and served at that parish until his assignment to Christ the Redeemer Parish in 2009.
Father Slaby credits his faith to his parents, who were strong in their Catholic devotion, and said his home parish in Poland had lots of vocations.
“Any serious vocation is an important thing, both a joy and a heavy weight, especially today, as we fight an uphill
“Take your time,” he counsels, “and seek God’s will. Talk to others for guidance, for the voice of God. As St. Paul says, ‘God’s grace will suffice,’ and ‘I can do all in God Who strengthens me.’”
Father Slaby reflected on his Manville parish.
“I’m certain that the ‘hand of God’ is real, and it will take you where you should be even if you are afraid. Do your best and trust God.”
He was sent from Poland to study English in New York, after which he was assigned to Saint Lucia.
“It was not my decision to leave Poland,” he said. “My superiors considered it a need here. God works in mysterious ways. I never thought I would work overseas. I never had the courage and strength, but time, trust in myself, and God made it work.
“Just like those with new vocations or those trying to discern one, do not seek fruits just after planting. Many decades may be needed to appreciate a vocation, both its positive and negative aspects,” he said
“But God’s providence will always provide. Good people in the parish will always help. I am grateful to them. Both my critics and my supporters were essential. They all helped me fulfill my vocation.”
By Robert Christie, Correspondent
“With God’s grace and through the ministry of a priest, I am able to administer the Sacraments to God’s people,” said Father Peter Tran, as he celebrates his silver jubilee as a priest. “My motto is ‘My vocation is Love. (St. Therese of Lisieux).”
Father Tran told The Catholic Spirit he became a priest because he “desired to serve God and his people through the priestly ministry.”
Father Tran attended elementary and high school at Tan Hiep in Vietnam before arriving in the United States in 1990 and was a seminarian at Seton Hall University’s St. Andrew College Seminary, South Orange, from 1991-1995, where he received a degree in religious studies and philosophy.
He entered Immaculate Conception Seminary in 1999, where he garnered his Master of Divinity Degree.
He was ordained into the priesthood in the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, Newark, in the Archdiocese of Newark.
Father Tran served as parochial vicar at St. Theresa Parish, Kenilworth, from 1999-2000; parochial vicar at St. John the Baptist Parish, Jersey City, from 2000-2008, and parochial vicar at St. James Parish, Woodbridge, from 2008-2012. While at St. James, he was chaplain to the parish’s Vietnamese community. Father Tran was parochial
vicar of Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish, South Plainfield, from 2012-2015. When asked what his biggest challenge as a priest has been he responded: “To be able to support both the American and Vietnamese communities to continue to grow and flourish together, to be their best, while passing on down the beauty and uniqueness of each heritage.”
Father Tran was elevated to administrator of Our Lady of Czestochowa, in 2015 and served in that role until his installation as the parish’s fifth pastor by the Bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen, James F. Checchio, on Oct. 29, 2017, with several hundred parishioners in attendance for the Mass and reception that followed.
Father Tran also serves as coordinator of the Diocese’s Vietnamese Apostolate.
He acknowledged his ministry as a pastor witnessing two unique, flourishing communities working together, includes nurturing the “presence and active participation of the multi-generation faith-filled communities in the United States.”
Father Tran said his hopes for the future are, “That we remain open to the prompting of the Holy Spirit, to love God and all his people as God has loved us.”
By Paul J. Peyton, Correspondent
Father Andrzej Wieliczko credits a fellow Polish native who happened to become a modern-day saint for inspiring him to become a priest.
Growing up in central Poland, Father Wieliczko said St. John Paul II, who was elected pope in 1978, when Father Wielicako was around 7 years old, used his influence as leader of the world’s Catholics to help the former Soviet-dominated country gain political and religious freedom.
“He was a great inspiration, not only for me, but for all Poles and, as we know, many people in the world,” said Father Wieliczko, who is celebrating his 25th anniversary this year of his Ordination.
The pastor of Holy Trinity Parish in Helmetta recalled encountering Pope John Paul II soon after his 1999 ordination to the priesthood.
“I met him in a private audience,” Father Wieliczko said. “I told him that I was just ordained. He raised his arm and looked at me deeply and said, ‘I bless your priesthood in the name of the Father, and the Son, and the Holy Spirit.’
“Even now I have goosebumps. It meant everything to me. It was an amazing encounter with the pope; now I can say I met a saint in my life.” Pope John Paul, who died in 2005, was canonized a saint April 27, 2014.
Father Wieliczko (pronounced WE-les-ko) felt a need to pursue the role of a religious while studying theology at Catholic University of Lublin, Poland, which was later named for Pope John Paul II. But he credited a love of Holy
Communion and the Mass for leading him to pursue the seminary.
“Something happened at the end of high school,” he said. “I discovered the beauty and mystery of the Eucharist.”
He said he was an altar server growing up but not devoted in his youth. “I preferred soccer than to go to Mass.” But as he grew, he became more devoted to attending daily liturgy and receiving the sacrament.
“It just naturally developed,” Father Wieliczko said. “In high school I just loved to go to Mass and it was very important in my life, the real presence of God and to be so close to Him in the Eucharist.”
He advises someone who is considering entering religious life to “just grow after the call. “It’s not an easy vocation,” he said. “I think it never was. But it’s a beautiful vocation, to give people the words of the Gospel, to share with people the living words of the Gospel, which are the loving words of God, and to share with them through the sacraments, to share with them the presence of the Lord.”
Father Wieliczko, a diocesan priest, has been pastor at Holy Trinity since 2017 and previously served two years there as parish administrator. He first came to the Camden Diocese before serving in the Metuchen Diocese at the request of retired Bishop Paul G. Bootkoski, who was seeking clergy of Polish background to serve that particular apostolate. Nine parishes have Polish liturgies including Holy Trinity, of whom about half its parishioners are of Polish descent, said Father Wieliczko.
He has also served at the following other parishes: St. Stanislaus Kostka and Our Lady of Victories, both in Sayreville; St. Patrick in Belvidere; St. Mary in Bound Brook; and Sacred Heart in South Plainfield.
By Anthony Salamone, Correspondent
Is it possible to sum up 40 years in the priesthood with just two words? Yes, and Father Robert G. Lynam is eager to share those words with all he encounters.
“Che gioia,” he said. “What a joy. It is my theme of priesthood.”
The foundation for those 40 years of joy was laid in 1958 in Mount Holly where he was born to Joseph and Dorothy Lynam. He completed parochial elementary school and public high school, and his next step came as no surprise to his faithful Catholic family – while still a 10-year-old altar server at Mount Holly’s Sacred Heart Parish, “I announced at school I wanted to become a priest,” he said. “It was a moment of clarity.”
The young man entered the Cistercian monastic community of Our Lady of Fatima Monastery, Mount Laurel, in 1978, but decided to pursue priesthood as a diocesan seminarian. He earned a bachelor’s degree in religious studies at Seton Hall University, South Orange, then entered Immaculate Conception Seminary, Mahwah, where he received a master’s degree in divinity.
Father Lynam was ordained by Bishop Theodore E. McCarrick May 12, 1984, in the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. He has served as associate pastor in Our Lady of Victories Parish, Sayreville, and St. Cecelia Parish, Iselin; as temporary administrator of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, Avenel, and pastor of St. Anthony Parish, Port Reading.
Father Lynam’s ministry in the Diocese of Metuchen has included service as director of the Office of Youth Ministry, director of Vocations, dean of the Forsgate Deanery, and as a member of the diocesan Presbyteral Council and the Board for Seminary Education. Pas-
toral assignments include terms as associate pastor in Our Lady of Victories Parish, Sayreville, and St. Cecelia Parish, Iselin. The priest also has served as temporary administrator of St. Andrew the Apostle Parish, Avenel, before being assigned as pastor of St. Anthony Parish, Port Reading.
Father Lynam was appointed to the board of trustees of Immaculate Conception Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange, and has been invested as a Knight Commander of the Holy Sepulchre.
When Bishop Edward T. Hughes appointed him as pastor of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish on Oct. 10, 1995, Father Lynam expressed his apprehension to assume the helm of such a large parish and school. He recounted the wise council from his shepherd.
“Bishop Hughes said, ‘Just love the people,’” Father Lynam recalled.
That loving relationship with the Kendall Park community of faith is nearing 30 years. The priest counts among his favorite ministries teaching its congregation and nurturing vocations; he pointed out that May 12, the anniversary of his ordination, is also the feast day of St. Lucy Filippini, the foundress of the order of nuns which teach in St. Augustine of Canterbury School.
With a nod to Bishop Hughes’ sage advice, Father Lynam would remind prospective priests and religious to “remember to smile.” The pastor expressed his joy about that long, fruitful period with yet another Italian phrase.
“Speak to the heart, cora a cora, heart to heart.”
By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor
It’s not surprising that Father Joseph L. Desmond credits a long, diverse list of influences as inspiration for his 50 years of priesthood, for he has enjoyed a long, diverse ministerial journey. “I have wanted to become a priest ever since I could remember,” he said, adding his family of faith and priests along the way played a part in his decision. “I am amazed about what happened from God through me.”
Born in 1947 in Long Branch as one of four children of the late Gertrude and James Desmond, he graduated from the town’s Our Lady Star of the Sea School, then received his high school education at Mother of the Savior Minor Seminary, Blackwood. He then attended St. Charles College, Catonsville, Md., and St. Mary Seminary and University, Baltimore, where he earned a Master of Divinity Degree.
Father Desmond was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop George W. Ahr at St. Mary Cathedral, Trenton, on May 18, 1974. Within the diocese, he served as associate pastor in the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Metuchen, and Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords. He was secretary to Bishop Theodore E. McCarrick from 1982-88. In 1984, he was selected to serve as the first pastor of Most Holy Redeemer, Old Bridge, a parish which began as an 8.5 acre field. Recalling the ambitious project, Father Desmond said, “I trusted in the Lord to send the right people to form the community. It was very exciting. The main reason for it growing and our paying off the mortgage after 11 years was people tapping shoulders, that is, inviting them to do work, attend services, etc.”
Father Desmond was transferred to Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish, Middlesex, in 1996 and named pastor; a year later he was named pastor of St. Cecilia Parish, Monmouth Junction, and served in that position until 2002. After four years of ministry in Tennessee, he assumed the role of chaplain in Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital, New Brunswick. He is now retired and is in residence back at Most Holy Redeemer.
Additional degrees and certifications earned by Father Desmond include a master of science degree in rehabilitation counseling from St. John University, N.Y.; pastoral care training at Mercy Medical Center, Darby, Pa., and pastoral care certification from the National Association of Catholic Chaplains. In the medical arena, the priest has served at St. Peter’s University Hospital, New Brunswick, in a variety of roles, including as hospital chaplain and a member of the foundation board, board of trustees and ethics committee. Father Desmond also served as the bishop’s representative to the medical and dental staff there, and as coordinator of the diocesan Health Care Apostolate.
His service to the Diocese of Metuchen included as a member of the advisory committee of the diocesan Seminary Board and the Priestly Life and Ministry Committee; member and special assistant to the Archbishop of Newark on health care issues, and dean of the Raritan Bay Deanery. Father Desmond has also served as a member of the ethics committee of Old Bridge Township and of the Catholic Charities Managed Care Coordinating Committee, and as chaplain to the Cheesequake Fire Department, Old Bridge.
The long-time priest has sage advice for any young man contemplating the priesthood.
“Pray to the Holy Spirit,” Father Desmond recommended, “for you won’t see what’s coming down the road.”
By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor
Capuchin Father Joseph M. Kubiak credits “strong ladies” of faith with his decision to join the priesthood. “I had two aunts who were nuns, and they visited us often,” he recalled. “I was to be named Anthony, but my mother and grandma named me Joseph because I was born on his feast day.”
The future priest was born in Jasien, Poland, in 1948 as the eldest of six children to Walter and Elizabeth Kubiak. When he was 14, he began priestly studies at a minor seminary and eventually earned a master’s degree from Lomza Major Seminary, Poland. Turmoil in that country forced him to serve in the Polish army from 1968-1970 while attending seminary.
“They tried to control the Church,” he said of the military leaders. “They tried to change our minds. It was hard physically, mentally and emotionally.” Quoting Blessed Jerzy Popieluszko, a martyred Polish priest associated with the country’s Solidarity trade union, the priest added, “Persecution makes saints.”
Nonetheless, Father Kubiak was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Nicholas Sasinowski on March 30, 1974 in Poland, and served there until he was sent by his order to the United States, arriving in 1979. Father Kubiak ministered in the Chicago area where he earned a master’s degree in social studies and mass media from Loyola University, followed by assignments in
Oklahoma before beginning service to the Diocese of Metuchen in 1984.
One of the priest’s favorite aspects of his ministry is walking in the steps of the Lord as he serves. “I love to celebrate the Sacraments and the Mass, to see Jesus do these things through my hands,” Father Kubiak said. “I can connect with God and his people and be humble.”
The native Pole visited Elk, Poland in 1999 for his 25th anniversary to the priesthood; he and several of his seminary classmates were concelebrants at the Mass, including a revered fellow clergyman from that country: the future St. John Paul II. “When he said, ‘Lord, send out your spirit, and renew the face of the earth,’ you could feel it,” Father Kubiak recalled.
Father Kubiak served as chaplain at Robert Wood Johnson Hospital, New Brunswick, while assisting with ministry in the city’s St. Joseph Parish. He also served in the role of associate pastor in St. Ambrose Parish, Old Bridge, and St. John Vianney Parish, Colonia. He is in residence at St. Helena Parish, Edison.
The priest’s advice to a young man considering a life of service is “to discern, to contemplate, to go to Mass every day if you can,” he said. “Pray about it, spend some time with the Eucharist. Also you should see your parish priest. If you are from [this parish,] come and see me.”
By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor
Msgr. Richard J. Lyons has three important tools in his spiritual work belt which have served him well throughout his five decades of service to the Church of Metuchen. “You need perseverance, compassion and forgiveness, just as Jesus showed in his ministry,” the priest said, identifying the traits as crucial in shaping the Church as both a pastor and a member of the diocesan Tribunal.
Born in 1947 in Red Bank to Mildred and Frank J. Lyons, the future priest attended public elementary and high schools in Atlantic Highlands and was inspired by his home parish’s Irish associate pastor to consider a life of religious service. Msgr. Lyons earned a bachelor’s degree in classical languages from Seton Hall University, South Orange, in 1970; a master’s degree in homiletics from Princeton Theological Seminary, and a master of divinity degree in pastoral theology from Immaculate Conception Seminary, Darlington, in 1975.
Msgr. Lyons was ordained May 18, 1974, in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton, by Bishop George W. Ahr. Ten years later, he earned a licentiate degree in canon law from the Catholic University of America, Washington and was the first clergyman to be appointed to the Diocese of Metuchen’s Tribunal. Msgr. Lyons served as associate judicial vicar for 15 years before his appointment as judicial vicar in 2001.
“It was challenging to get sent back to school,” the priest admitted, “but when the Diocese of Metuchen was created, we had no one with a background
in law. They chose me because I was the only one with some expertise in common law they could use. When the dust settled, it was a tremendous opportunity to get back to the Sacraments by validating couples’ marriages.”
Msgr. Lyons will celebrate 40 years on the tribunal this November, and continues to work there twice weekly. To assist his newly ordained brethren, for many years he held seminars on annulments so that priests might better understand the process.
The priest’s parish work includes diaconate ministry in St. Mary Parish, South Amboy; he also taught religion and marriage courses at the parish’s high school and Immaculata High School, Somerville. Subsequent assignments included as associate pastor at Immaculate Conception Parish, Somerville; Sacred Heart Parish, South Plainfield; and St. Matthew the Apostle Parish, Edison.
Msgr. Lyons was appointed temporary administrator of St. John the Evangelist Parish, Dunellen, in 1986, and in 1989 was named pastor. He served as pastor until June 2008.
“It was a small parish, so with the help of some wonderful deacons I was very fortunate to work there and the tribunal for 22 years,” he said.
When asked what he might counsel a prospective priest, Msgr. Lyons used those important tools in his spiritual work belt once again, adding one additional phrase of advice.
“The Church is in flux,” he said. “There are issues I could not have conceived. They should persevere, have compassion and forgiveness like the Lord did in his ministry. Be courageous.”
By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor
Little wonder Polish youth John P. Stec knew he was destined for the priesthood at an early age – it was in his blood.
“Two of my mother’s brothers were priests, and they visited often,” he recalled. Faith was strong amongst his fellow students in the town of Jablonka Orawska as well, with nine of the 33 in his class ordained to the religious life. John’s parents, Jan and Maria, nurtured his faith journey and encouraged his education in Krakow Archdiocesan Seminary.
The young man was ordained to the priesthood by another faith-filled Pole: Cardinal Karol Wojtyla, the future St. John Paul II, on May 19, 1974, in Krakow. Father Stec’s first ten years of ministry were in parishes in his native Poland, then he followed his priest uncle in emigrating to the United States in 1984.
Father Stec’s American service began for the Archdiocese of Newark as an extern priest at Most Sacred Heart Parish, Wallington, and Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish, Bayonne. Joining the Diocese of Metuchen, Father Stec served its people as parochial vicar of Sacred Heart Parish, Manville; St. Stephen Parish, Perth Amboy; St. Mary of Czestochowa Parish, Bound Brook, and St.
Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington.
Father Stec was incardinated into the diocese Jan. 10, 1994, and appointed to his first pastorate in St. Stephen Parish, Perth Amboy, the following May 17. “Those 12 years at St. Stephen’s were my passion,” he reflected, explaining the large-scale renovation project which included new stained-glass windows, a new ceiling and altar, and an intricate marble floor.
Father Stec was transferred in 2006 to St. Mary of Ostrabama Parish, South River, and St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish, South River, where he served as parochial vicar until being transferred to Holy Family Parish (now Divine Mercy Parish), Carteret, in 2007. In 2013, Father Stec returned to St. Mary of Czestochowa Parish, where he now serves as pastor.
“One of the great joys of the priesthood is to celebrate the Mass,” Father Stec stated. “I like to preach and sing [the Mass] parts in Polish.”
His advice to a prospective priest is sage even if that gentleman does not have that strong bloodline of faith. He recommends, “Have a positive effect on people. Teach people the truth.”
By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor
Father Charles F. Kelly has never regretted his decision to become a priest.
In a recent phone interview, he declared that he has loved the priesthood in every way, including every aspect of his life and ministry.
“I’ve done a great tour,” he said. “I enjoyed working and I didn’t want to quit for anything.”
Suffering from arthritis and unable to stand for long periods, he is no longer able to celebrate Mass and has been living in a care home since last October. He said that he wishes that he could continue his ministry. He would also love to receive more visitors.
One of seven children born to William and Anna Kelly and raised in Trenton, he attended St. Anthony Elementary School and Trenton Catholic Boys High School, Trenton, and graduated from LaSalle College, Philadelphia, in 1957 with a degree in education and social studies.
He served in the Army in the Korean War for two years. After his safe return and honorable discharge, he decided to see if entering the seminary would satisfy the interest in the priesthood that he simply couldn’t shake off.
He told his dates, dance partners, and friends at the Catholic young adult club in Trenton that he was leaving for the seminary. His faithfully Catholic parents were happy with the news.
Father Kelly studied Latin and Greek at Boston College for one year, then entered Immaculate Conception
Seminary in Darlington in 1959.
He was ordained May 23, 1964 by Bishop George W. Ahr in St Mary Cathedral, Trenton, and celebrated his first Mass the next day at St. Anthony Parish, Trenton.
Following ordination, Father Kelly served in St. Mary Parish, New Monmouth and St. Paul Parish, Burlington, as associate pastor. He was appointed diocesan Vicar for Religious from 1974 to 1978, and named pastor of Christ the King Parish in Manville in 1979 where he served for seven years, and of St. Ambrose Parish in Old Bridge from 1986 until his retirement in 2006.
He also earned a master’s degree in pastoral psychology from Iona College in New Rochelle, NY in 1978.
On the occasion of his 50th anniversary, when he was celebrating Masses and hearing Confessions, he said, “I don’t want to rest; I want to work. It’s just like parents – when do you stop being a parent? Even if you’re 75 years old, that’s still your son; that’s still your daughter.”
Now, looking back over the years, Father Kelly reflected, “I always worked hard. That’s not bragging, just a simple fact: I’ve worked hard all my life. Every parish is different, but it was nice. I enjoyed it – I really enjoyed it.”
By Teresa Murphy, Correspondent
Msgr. Eugene Prus always wanted to be a parish priest and likes to describe himself as “a parish priest, through and through.”
“It’s my whole life,” he said in a recent phone interview. “This is all I’ve ever wanted to do, and I continue to do it.”
A relationship with the Lord is “essential and critical” to live out a vocation to the priesthood with joy and commitment, he said.
“It’s what keeps you going every single day, that relationship with the Lord. Knowing that you’re doing his work, that you’re doing his will – it’s like putting gasoline in a car,” he said. “I’m just grateful that the Lord has given me the opportunity to keep working for him.”
Born to Stanislaus and Genevieve Prus, he was raised in South River and attended St. Mary of Ostrabrama School.
Volunteering at the parish and admiring the work of his pastors inspired him to pursue his vocation to the priesthood.
He attended St. John Atonement Seminary in Montour Falls, N.Y., St. Mary College, Orchard Lake, Mich., and Sts. Cyril and Methodius Seminary, also in Orchard Lake.
Ordained in May 1964 by Bishop George W. Ahr at St. Mary Cathedral, Trenton, he served as associate pastor of All Saints Parish, Burlington; St. Stephen Parish, Perth Amboy; Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords; and Corpus Christi Parish, Willingboro. He was pastor of St. Mary of Czestochowa Parish, Bound Brook, for eight years, and pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish, Martinsville, for six years.
He credits the late Bishop Edward T. Hughes with providing a model on which to base his own priesthood, noting that Bishop Hughes was known for his patience, kindness, and compassion.
In 1991 he was appointed diocesan vicar for administration, a role he remained in until 1998, working closely with Bishop Hughes.
“He was a wonderful mentor to me,” Msgr. Prus said. “He was a good
man, and I learned a lot.”
Msgr. Prus has also served over the years as secretary of the College of Consultors, chairman of the Diocesan Building Commission, chairman of the Priestly Life and Ministry Committee, adjunct judge of the Diocesan Tribunal, and moderator of the Diocesan Council of Catholic Women and the Somerset-Hunterdon Federation of Holy Name Societies.
“I’ve served every bishop that we’ve had in Metuchen,” Msgr. Prus noted. He continues to sit on the College of Consultors and the Presbyteral Council with Bishop James F. Checchio.
In 1998, he returned as pastor of Blessed Sacrament Parish, where he continued his ministry until his retirement in 2012.
During retirement, he has ministered to the sick, celebrated Mass in various parishes, and helped people in need. He recently served as administrator of Our Lady of Lourdes, Milltown, for six months. For the past several years, he has celebrated Mass both daily and on weekends at St. Mary Parish in Watchung.
“It’s a wonderful parish with wonderful people, and it’s been great,” Msgr. Prus said.
In June 2024, he was honored by the Township of Bridgewater with a proclamation noting that he had been influential in the creation of the Diocese of Metuchen and had promoted ecumenical dialogue among people of many faiths.
“It’s been a wonderful, wonderful life,” Msgr. Prus said. “The parish priest is really the foundation of the Church. The Church is in the pews, in the people, and the parish priest works with the people in the pews of his parish. It’s a critical, critical component of the Church. The Church is built on parishes … it’s there in the parishes that we reach people and we accompany them with their problems, their sorrows, their joys. In my opinion there’s nothing more fundamental than doing parish work.”
By Teresa Murphy, Correspondent
Father Stanley Walega, a retired priest of the Metuchen Diocese, celebrated the 60th anniversary of his priest in his native country of Poland, where he was ordained.
He grew up in Wlosienica, Poland, which is just minutes away from the infamous Auschwitz concentration camp. He was educated by the Salesians, an order founded in 1859 by St. John Bosco, and was influenced by the faith, strength, and courage of his parents, Frank and Stefania Walega.
Father Walega remembers the days of World War II and the Nazi invasion of his hometown. As a youngster, Father Walega survived not only the Nazis, but two subsequent open-heart surgeries.
He believes that his priesthood has given him an opportunity to help people follow the Church’s teachings and advises new priests not to get discouraged. Sometimes the challenges of the priesthood can cause impatience, but in the long run, it’s worth it — even to save just one soul.
“The quality of man is the important thing,” Father Walega said. “I am grateful to God that I survived. I realize that God is good.
“My rector told me when I finished my studies that I am now free — free to go on the cross. So daily I say St. Faustino’s Chaplet of Divine Mercy and pray
the Rosary, which is the power and the weapon in our hands. I pray to the Holy Spirit for grace and strength and wisdom. The Holy Spirit will give you the light for a lifetime.”
To those trying to discern a possible call to a priestly vocation, he says, “If you choose a vocation, trust Jesus. God will lead you through the challenges. Just say, ‘Jesus, I trust you.’ Pray the Divine Chaplet. Ask yourself, ‘What would Jesus do?’ I would add that Our Lady is very important in my life.
“Looking back at my life from a distance, I realize we are called by God. The world is too small for us. We are created for eternity. It is the reason Jesus came for us. So, I offer the Eucharist and Confession every day before Mass, every Mass, every day because sin is destroying the world,” he said.
Now retired and living privately in Kearny, Father Walega assists every weekend and on first Fridays at St. Casimir Parish in Newark, where Father Andrew Ostaszewski, the pastor, is his friend. He has also assisted at parishes in Jersey City and Hackensack.
Father Walega holds degrees in Philosophy and Theological Homiletics. After visiting a friend in the U.S. for four months, he returned to his native Poland, but due to the increasingly threatening actions of the government that felt threatened by the Church, he decided to return to America for good.
By Robert Christie, Correspondent
Jesus Christ and Mother of priests,
Accept this title which we bestow on you to celebrate your motherhood and to contemplate with you the priesthood of your Son and of your sons,
O holy Mother of God.
to the Messiah Priest you gave a body of flesh through the anointing of the Holy Spirit for the salvation of the poor and the contrite of heart; guard priests in your heart and in the Church, O Mother of the Savior.
Mother of Faith,
you accompanied to the Temple the Son of Man, the fulfillment of the promises given to the fathers; give to the Father for his glory the priests of your Son, O Ark of the Covenant.
Mother of the Church, with the disciples in the Upper Room you prayed to the Spirit for the new People and their shepherds; obtain for the Order of Presbyters a fullness of gifts, O Queen of the Apostles.
Mother of Jesus Christ,
you were with Him at the beginning of His life and of His mission, you sought the Master among the crowd, you stood beside Him when he was lifted up from the earth consumed as the one eternal sacrifice, and you had John close by you, your son; accept from the beginning those who have been called, protect their growth, accompany your sons in their life and in their ministry,
O Mother of Priests.
to
OFM, Cap.,
on the 50th Anniversary of your ordination to the Sacred Priesthood.
“Man should tremble, the world should quake, all Heaven should be deeply moved when the Son of God appears on the altar in the hands of a priest.”
- Saint Francis of Assisi
St. John Vianney Church 420 Inman Avenue, Colonia, New Jersey 07067 (732) 574-0150 parish.sjvianney.com
The parish community of St. Helena, Edison, New Jersey, warmly congratulates
Fr. Anthony Sirianni on his 35th anniversary of his Anniversary of Priestly Ordination
“I am grateful to him who has strengthened me, Christ
he considered me trustworthy in appointing me
TIMOTHY 1 : 12
In Celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the Ordination of Reverend Canon Robert G. Lynam, KCHS May 12, 1984
The Parish of St. Augustine of Canterbury Church, Kendall Park, rejoices in the pastoral life of Fr. Bob his 40 years as a priest of the Diocese of Metuchen and his 29 years of commitment and guidance to us!
Congratulations on your 25 years of faithful service. May God bless you always.
Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish and the Vietnamese Community South Plainfield, New Jersey
Congratulations on 25 years in the Service of the Lord
An Irish Blessing
May the raindrops fall lightly on your brow.
May the soft winds freshen your Spirit
May the sunshine brighten your heart
May the burdens of the day rest lightly upon you; and may God enfold you in the mantle of His love
NJ
St. Mary’s of Czestochowa
Altar Rosary Society (founded 1915) offers our heartfelt prayers and best wishes to the Reverend Father John Stec on his Golden Jubilee
We are grateful to Father John for his guidance over the years. May God bless you always!
A pro-life advocate from Iowa holds a sign during the 2017 March for Life in Washington. The Iowa Supreme Court in a 4-3 ruling June 28, 2024, said the state’s six-week abortion limit could be enforced amid a legal challenge to it. —OSV News photo/CNS file, Tyler Orsburn
DES MOINES, Iowa (OSV News) – The Iowa Supreme Court ruled June 28 that the state’s six-week abortion limit could be enforced amid a legal challenge to it. The ruling reversed a previous injunction temporarily blocking the state’s “heartbeat” abortion ban, which prohibits most abortions once fetal cardiac activity can be detected after about six weeks of pregnancy after about six weeks of pregnancy. The law has exceptions for cases of rape, incest or to save the life of the mother. The move lowers Iowa’s limit from its previous 22-week limit for now. The case will be sent back to the district court for
further consideration. In a joint statement, the bishops of the Iowa Catholic Conference said, “We celebrate that the Iowa Supreme Court has recognized there is no right to an abortion to be found in the Iowa Constitution and, in so doing, has lifted an injunction against the law that would prohibit abortions after a heartbeat can be detected.” The bishops further called on Iowans “to work for an end to the practice of abortion and to join us in tireless, unremitting and compassionate solidarity with pregnant women in distress, with the men who fathered these children, and with families in need.”
Ukrainian Catholic Redemptorist Fathers Ivan Levitsky and Bohdan Geleta are seen in this undated photo posted to the website of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church June 28, 2024. The priests, captured by Russian forces from Berdyansk, Ukraine, in November 2022, were announced as freed by Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy June 28. —OSV News/Screen shot from UGCC website
KYIV, Ukraine (OSV News) – Two disappeared Ukrainian Greek Catholic priests seized by Russian forces from their church in Berdyansk in November of 2022 have been released after months of captivity, according to Ukraine President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, Redemptorist Fathers Ivan Levitsky and Bohdan Geleta, who served at the Church of the Nativity of the Most Holy Theotokos in Berdyansk, were among 10 prisoners who have now been returned to Ukrainian authorities. Zelenskyy announced the news in Ukrainian June 28 on Facebook page. “We have managed to free 10 more of our
Compiled from Our Sunday Visitor and
DEARBORN, Mich. (OSV News) –American Indian Catholics and friends of American Indians gathered June 22 at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Parish in Dearborn for a celebration combining elements of Native spirituality with the Catholic faith. The yearly celebration of the Strawberry Moon feast, which marks June’s full moon, signals that it is time to harvest the strawberries and enjoy the bountiful fruits of the earth, which God gives, said Deacon Steven Morello, who in July 2023 was appointed by Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron as the Archdiocese of Detroit’s missionary to the American Indians. “The name ‘Strawberry Moon’ is believed to have originated from Native American tribes, particularly Algonquin
Yarenda’ Nde Yachondriak, a member of the Huron-Wen dat nation, sings a welcome song accompanied by her deerhide drum June 22, 2024, during the Nicholas Black Elk St. Kateri Circle’s cel ebration of the summer sol stice and Strawberry Moon at St. Kateri Tekakwitha Par ish in Dearborn, Mich. News photo/Valaurian Waller, Detroit Catholic
‘in
tribes in North America,” Deacon Morello told Detroit Catholic, the archdiocesan online news outlet. “That has a particular significance for us today because St. Kateri’s mother was Algonquin, so what we celebrate today is very likely the same celebration that our own St. Kateri would celebrate in this season when she was alive with us.” More than two dozen gathered to celebrate the summer solstice and the “Strawberry Moon,” June 20 and 21. The service was hosted by the Nicholas Black Elk St. Kateri Circle, a group of American Indian Catholics based in the Archdiocese of Detroit and led by missionary Deacon Morello, a member of the Sault Ste. Marie Tribe of Chippewa
Creation is God’s gift for humanity to steward, not prey upon, pope says
people from Russian captivity, despite all the difficulties,” wrote Zelenskyy, who recognized “the Holy See’s efforts to bring these people home.” Both Father Levitskya and Father Geleta had refused to leave their parishioners following Russia’s full-scale invasion in February 2022, which continued attacks launched in 2014 against Ukraine. Shortly after Father Levitsky and Father Geleta were captured, Major Archbishop Sviatoslav Shevchuk, head of the Ukrainian Greek Catholic Church, said he had received “the sad news that our priests are being tortured without mercy.”
VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Being obedient to God’s commandment and spirit of love can radically change attitudes and actions to convert people from “predators” of natural resources to “tillers” of God’s great garden of planet Earth, Pope Francis said. “The earth is entrusted to our care, yet continues to belong to God,” according to Judeo-Christian tradition, the Pope said in his message for the 2024 World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation. “To claim the right to possess and dominate nature, manipulating it at will, thus represents a form of idolatry, a Promethean version of humanity who, intoxicated by its technocratic power, arrogantly places the earth in a ‘dis-graced’ condition, deprived of
God’s grace,” he wrote in his message, which was released by the Vatican June 27. The World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation, which will be celebrated Sept. 1, marks the start of the ecumenical Season of Creation. The season concludes Oct. 4, the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of ecology. The theme for 2024 is “Hope and Act with Creation,” based on St. Paul’s Letter to the Romans (8:19-25), in which the apostle considers the destiny of the created world as it shares in the penalty of corruption brought about by sin, concluding that creation will share in the benefits of redemption and future glory that comprise the ultimate liberation of God’s people.
Salesian Sister Alessandra Smerilli, secretary of the Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development, smiles at journalists during a news conference presenting Pope Francis’ message for the World Day of Prayer for the Care of Creation at the Vatican June 27, 2024. —CNS photo/Lola Gomez
By Justin McLellan Catholic News Service
VATICAN CITY (CNS) -- Heaven is not a secure vault protected from outsiders but a “hidden treasure” that is reached by cultivating virtues, Pope Francis said.
Before praying the Angelus in St. Peter’s Square on the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul June 29, the Pope reflected on Jesus giving St. Peter, the first Pope, the keys to the kingdom of heaven.
“The mission that Jesus entrusts to Peter is not that of barring the doors to the house, permitting entry only to a few select guests, but of helping everyone to find the way to enter, in faithfulness to the Gospel of Jesus,” Pope Francis said after celebrating Mass in St. Peter’s Basilica.
Heaven, he added, is “for everyone. Everyone, everyone, everyone can enter.”
The Pope said that St. Peter “received the keys to the kingdom not because he was perfect, no, he is a sinner, but because he was humble, honest and the Father had given him sincere faith.”
Even after many trials and setbacks, the Apostle Peter was the first to experience for himself “the joy and freedom that come from meeting the Lord,” and
the first “to understand that authority is a service in order to open the door to Jesus.”
The following day, Pope Francis again appeared in the window of the Apostolic Palace to keep his usual Sunday appointment of praying the Angelus with the faithful. He focused on the Gospel theme of inclusivity by reflecting on the day’s Gospel reading from St. Mark in which a woman is healed after touching Jesus’ cloak and a girl is resurrected after Jesus took her by the hand.
Highlighting the importance of physical contact in both healings, the Pope asked, “Why is this physical con tact important?”
“It is because these two women are considered impure and cannot, therefore, be physically touched – one because she suffers from bleeding and the other be cause she is dead,” he said. “Yet, Jesus allows Himself to be touched and is not afraid to touch.”
By carrying out the physical heal ing, Jesus “challenges the false religious belief that God separates the pure, plac ing them on one side, from the impure on another,” the Pope said. “Instead, God does not make this kind of separation be
cause we are all his children.”
He added that impurity “does not come from food, illness, or even death; impurity comes from an impure heart.”
Pope Francis urged Christians to take to heart the lesson from the day’s Gospel reading, that “in the face of bodily and spiritual sufferings, of the wounds
our souls bear, of the situations that crush us, and even in the face of sin, God does not keep us at a distance.”
“God is not ashamed of us; God does not judge us,” he said. “On the contrary, He draws near to let Himself be touched and to touch us, and He always raises us from death.”
Por Justin McLellan Catholic News Service
CIUDAD DEL VATICANO (CNS) -- El cielo no es una bóveda segura protegida de los extraños, sino un “tesoro escondido” al que se llega cultivando las virtudes, dijo el Papa Francisco.
Antes de rezar el Ángelus en la Plaza de San Pedro en la fiesta de San Pedro y San Pablo el 29 de junio, el Papa reflexionó sobre Jesús dando a San Pedro, el primer Papa, las llaves del reino de los cielos.
“La misión que Jesús confía a Pedro no es la de atrancar las puertas de la casa, permitiendo la entrada sólo a unos pocos invitados selectos, sino la de ayudar a todos a encontrar el camino para entrar, en fidelidad al Evangelio de Jesús”, dijo el Papa Francisco tras celebrar la Misa en la Basílica de San Pedro.
El cielo, añadió, es “para todos. Todos, todos, todos pueden entrar”.
El Papa dijo que San Pedro “recibió las llaves del reino no porque fuera perfecto, no, es un pecador, sino porque era humilde, honesto y el Padre le había dado una fe sincera”.
Incluso después de muchas pruebas y contratiempos, el apóstol Pedro fue el primero en experimentar por sí mismo “la alegría y la libertad que vienen del encuentro con el Señor”, y el primero “en comprender que la autoridad es un servicio para abrir la puerta a Jesús”.
Al día siguiente, el Papa Francisco volvió a asomarse a la ventana del Palacio Apostólico para cumplir con su ha-
bitual cita dominical de rezar el Ángelus con los fieles. Se centró en el tema evangélico de la inclusividad reflexionando sobre la lectura evangélica del día de San Marcos en la que una mujer es curada tras tocar el manto de Jesús y una niña resucita después de que Jesús la tomara de la mano.
Destacando la importancia del contacto físico en ambas curaciones, el Papa preguntó: “¿Por qué motivo es importante ‘tocar’?”.
“Es porque estas dos mujeres -- una porque tiene pérdidas de sangre y la otra porque está muerta -- se consideran impuras y por lo tanto con ellas no puede haber contacto físico”, dijo. “Y, en cambio, Jesús se deja tocar y no teme tocar”.
Al llevar a cabo la sanación física, Jesús desafía una concepción religiosa equivocada, según la cual Dios separa a los puros por un lado y a los impuros por otro”, dijo el Papa. “En cambio, Dios no hace esta separación, porque todos somos sus hijos”.
Añadió que la impureza “no deriva de alimentos, enfermedades y ni siquiera de la muerte, sino que la impureza viene de un corazón impuro”.
Pope Francis’ Monthly Prayer Intentions
El Papa Francisco instó a los cristianos a tomar en serio la lección de la lectura del Evangelio del día, que “frente a los sufrimientos del cuerpo y del espíritu, frente a las heridas del alma, frente a las situaciones que nos abaten e incluso frente al pecado, Dios no nos mantiene a distancia”.
“Dios no se avergüenza de nosotros, Dios no nos juzga”, dijo. “Al contrario, Él se acerca para dejarse tocar y para tocarnos y siempre nos levanta de la muerte”.
For political leaders We pray that political leaders be at the service of their own people, working for integral human development and for the common good, especially caring for the poor and those who have lost their jobs.
The readings this Sunday again enliven our hope in God’s merciful love. The image of God providing for his people is key to understanding both our First Reading and Gospel. Each reading uses the image of a shepherd’s care for his flock as a metaphor for God’s involvement with his people.
This Sunday’s First Reading is taken from the Book of the Prophet Jeremiah. Set just prior to the Babylonian Captivity in 587 BC, Jeremiah utters the Lord’s testimony against the wicked leaders of Judah, “Woe to the shepherds who mis-
lead and scatter the flock of my pasture … you have not cared for them … I will take care to punish your evil deeds” (Jeremiah 23:1, 2b).
Interestingly, in Hebrew the same root word means both shepherd and ruler, for amongst his Chosen People, the Lord intended that the office of ruler (king) include the sacred responsibilities of feeding and providing for his flock. The kingly office included being the religious deputy for God here on earth. The later kings of Judah proved themselves bad shepherds for they indulged in evil deeds, exploited the poor and needy, and failed to maintain religious purity. When considered against the qualities of an ideal ruler and shepherd (see Ezekiel 34:11-16), Zedekiah (the King of Judah from 597-587 BC, during whose reign Jeremiah prophesied) and his predecessors were found sorely lacking.
Even amid this condemnation, God still demonstrated his compassionate love for his people. Because their evil
Gospel for July 21, 2024
Ephesians 2: 13-18 / Mark 6: 30-34
Following is a word search based on the Second and Gospel readings for the 16th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B: on Jesus’ love and compassion. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.
BLOOD CHRIST PEACE DIVIDING WALL ABOLISHING CREATE THE CROSS FAR OFF ACCESS SPIRIT FATHER APOSTLES TAUGHT REST AWHILE EVEN TO EAT BOAT ON FOOT TOWNS CROWD SHEEP
shepherds had scattered and abused them, the Lord promised that “I myself will gather the remnant of my flock … I will appoint shepherds for them who will shepherd them so that they no longer fear and tremble” (Jeremiah 23:3a, 4a). True to his word in the covenant, the Lord will always remain personally involved in the proper care of his people.
In fact, Christians find the ultimate sign of God’s abiding care foretold in Jeremiah’s very next prophecy. He presents God as promising, “Behold, the days are coming says the Lord, when I will raise up a righteous shoot to David … he shall do what is right and just in the land. In his days Judah shall be saved” (Jeremiah 23:5-6a). As Christians we believe, of course, that this righteous shoot of David is Jesus himself.
This Sunday’s Gospel presents St. Mark’s account of Jesus providing exactly this loving care for his people. Having just welcomed his apostles back from their first missionary journey without him, Jesus’ intention was to offer these closest disciples a period of much-needed respite. He realized that those sent out to proclaim God’s Kingdom must themselves be allowed time to bask in the presence of the Lord; if they did not spend some time in intimate communion with their Shepherd, they themselves would not be able to adequately pastor the rest of God’s flock.
Their quiet moments together, however, would have to wait. By now the crowds had become deeply attached to Jesus and his teaching, and when word spread that he was going to move on, the entire mass of people hurried off to his suspected destination. By the time Jesus arrived, the crowd had already reassembled. St. Mark relates
might be math problems and the temptation at hand might be Legos. And as many parents of children receiving the sacraments can identify, I’m sure, you can easily wonder “is he ready?”
But what a grace to me the last two months have been. The questions I didn’t have answers to are now being answered before my eyes each day. I can see in manifold ways how this precious boy is growing with and in Christ. From the ways he’s more attentive to the needs of his family, to the ways he’s more dedicated to prayer, to the ways he has zeroed
that when Jesus looked out over the crowd “his heart was moved with pity for them, for they were like sheep without a shepherd …” (Mark 6:34).
Jesus saw the crowd as the “faithful remnant,” the poor who had been beaten down by the daily prejudices and injustices that plagued their lives. Jesus saw these people as a treasure trove ripe to receive his Father’s Kingdom into their lives. At that moment, Jesus, the Good Shepherd began again to nourish these people with his words and deeds, explaining the presence of God’s Kingdom right there among them. Through Jesus, the power of God was breaking forth into the world with its mighty potential to make their lives better.
Jesus would care and provide for them as their Good Shepherd. In fact, Jesus’ entire earthly ministry can be seen in light of this title. First, his mission was understood as initially being to the lost sheep of Israel (see Matthew 10:6-15 and 15:24). Next, he cared so much for each individual sheep, that he left the 99 to go seek after the lost one, rejoicing when this lost one was found (see Matthew 18:12-13). Then, going beyond even the greatest Old Testament expectations of shepherds, Jesus described himself as willing ultimately to lay down his life for his sheep (see John 10:11).
As the spiritual heirs of that early crowd in ancient Palestine, we rejoice that Jesus remains our Good Shepherd still. We realize that amid all the trials and struggles of this life, we always have a loving haven in Jesus, for “he is our peace” (Ephesians 2:14a).
Msgr. Fell is a Scripture scholar and director, diocesan Office for Priest Personnel.
Continued from page 7
in his focus at Mass – or even tallying up “My Communions” in the back of his missal – to the ways he offers the occasional spiritual insight I never could’ve dreamed of thinking up at his age.
All of this has been a clear reminder to me that the grace God gives us isn’t just meant for us. It’s a blessing to all of humanity – a gift received to be shared.
Michael R. Heinlein is author of “Glorifying Christ: The Life of Cardinal Francis E. George, O.M.I.” and a promised member of the Association of Pauline Cooperators.
Children pray during Eucharistic adoration at St. Laurence Church in Sugar Land, Texas, May 30, 2024, one of several stops in the Archdiocese of Galveston-Houston along the St. Juan Diego Route of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage. —OSV News photo/James Ramos, Texas Catholic Herald
By Susan Odenthal Correspondent
Father Henry L. Hemmerling, former pastor at Sacred Heart Parish, South Plainfield; St. Mary Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington, and Most Holy Redeemer Parish, Old Bridge, died on June 23. He was 88, having retired from active ministry in 2001.
a church, and a vocation, was a ‘labor of love’
Father Hemmerling, the son of Henry Sr. and Ann Hemmerling, was born into a devout Catholic family. He was ordained in May 1966, attending seminary to become a diocesan priest after serving four years with the Trappists as a novitiate. “I was very attracted to the Trappists” because of their piety and austerity, he said on the occasion of his 55th anniversary of Ordination to the priesthood, but added, “My vocation always was the diocesan priesthood.”
A graduate of Seton Hall University, Father Hemmerling earned a Master of Divinity degree from Immaculate Conception Seminary in Mahwah following his years with the Trappists. He was ordained a priest at St. Mary’s Cathedral,
Trenton, and was assigned to St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Metuchen, where he was inspired by then pastor Monsignor John Foley. In order to best fulfill his role there as director of religious education, Father Hemmerling earned a Master’s Degree in Education at Fordham University and a Master’s Degree in Theology from Princeton Theological Seminary.
Before being named to his first role as pastor, at Church of the Sacred Heart, he was assigned as parochial vicar at St. Barnabas Parish, Bayville; St. Anthony of Padua, Hightstown, and St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton. He was named pastor of the rapidly growing St. Magdalen de Pazzi Parish in Flemington in 1982, where his predecessor told him upon his arrival
Sister Margaret Waldron, age 96, died peacefully at McAuley Hall Health Care Center in Watchung, March 29. She was born in Plainfield, the daughter of John and Margaret (Flatley) Waldron, both born in Ireland. She was a Sister of Mercy for 74 years.
Sister Margaret, formerly known as Sister Mary Paula, entered the Sisters of Mercy in 1950. Sister had a long and fruitful ministry in education in various schools within the Diocese, including as vice-principal at St. Pius X High School,
Piscataway, and St. Mary’s High School, Perth Amboy.
Sister Margaret later served as principal in both St. Mary High School, Perth Amboy and St. Mary High School, South Amboy. She was then appointed as administrator of St. James Convent in Red Bank. In 2006, Sister Margaret retired and moved to Gabriel Hall at Mount Saint Mary, Watchung, where she continued to live out her motto “Love Serves.”
Sister Margaret was predeceased by her parents as well as her sisters Eileen
To place your ad in the directory please call Mary at 732-529-7934
that a new church would need to be built to accommodate many new families.
Reflecting on that period in his priesthood, he once described that challenge as “one of the more exciting parts of my priesthood, being a part of building that church … it was a lot of work, but it was a labor of love.” The church was completed in 1989, and Father Hemmerling then moved on to lead Most Holy Redeemer Parish, Matawan.
Although Father Hemmerling retired in 2001 to Florida, he returned to New Jersey 15 years later to be closer to family, residing at the Maria Regina Residence in Somerset.
Father Hemmerling’s body was received by Father Chester H. Carina at Most Holy Redeemer Church, and a Mass of Commemoration was offered by Father Jonathan S. Toborowsky, vicar general, with Monsignor Francis J. Duffy of the Diocese of Paterson as homilist. The Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated the next morning by Bishop James F. Checchio, with interment following at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Totowa.
Waldron and Josephine DeBiase and her brother John Waldron.
She is survived by her sister, Kath leen Waldron, many loving and attentive nieces and nephews, and her religious family of Mercy. She will be greatly missed, fondly remembered for her faith fulness and Irish wit, and always loved. Following a Funeral Mass April 5, Sister Margaret was buried in Holy Redeemer Cemetery, South Plainfield.
By Tiffany Workman Special Contributor
Parish volunteers from across the Diocese, whose work is essential to meeting the needs of those who come to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen for help, were honored June 27 during Catholic Charities Office of Parish Social Ministry’s annual meeting of appreciation, held in St. Matthias Parish, Somerset.
The always anticipated annual event was planned by Maria Hunter who serves as ministry director, and who expressed her sincere gratitude to all who are involved in the ministry and for all who attended the evening’s gathering.
Bishop James F. Checchio, who was unable to attend the event, sent a meaningful video message for the parish social ministers who undertake so many works of mercy. He said, “You do so much for our people and for our Church, that I am truly indebted and grateful for you. … “Keep up the good work. Keep on loving the Lord your God with all your heart, soul and strength by loving your neighbor. God bless you.”
After the video, parish volunteers enjoyed dinner and fellowship with each other. One by one, they stood up and shared their greatest success stories of the past year. A prominent topic that was brought up was parish food pantries and how they operate. Volunteers had the opportunity to share tips and resources – an important part of the evening.
Catholic Charities Office of Parish Social Ministry collaborates and networks with those who serve their parish in social/outreach ministry. Bob Cherill, a
member of St. Matthias Parish, has been involved with the St. Vincent de Paul Society since 2015. He loves gathering with other parish social ministers and sharing spirituality and good works for those in need. “Since COVID, federal programs have gone away, landlords have gotten strict with rent.” He continued, “Everyone has felt the pinch of inflation, people are in need and we need to increase giving. People need to take action. Our call as Catholics is to take care of the people of the world.”
Several of those in ministry from Corpus Christi Parish, South River, concurred, “Thank goodness for Catholic Charities and Maria Hunter. She’s a great leader and always so positive.” They explained that when people call their parish asking for help, the social ministers do everything they can. “Most of the time, it’s people looking for a place to live, or they’re looking for help to get their water or electric turned back on,” noting that they use the resources that Catholic Charities provides to help as many people as they can.
For more information on this ministry or to get involved, please visit ccdom. org/middlesex-parish-social-ministry or email Maria Hunter at mhunter@ccdom. org.
For more information about Catholic Charities Diocese of Metuchen, please visit ccdom.org. Like and Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X @ ccdom1 to stay updated on upcoming events and ways CCDOM helps clients get the services and assistance they need.
Tiffany Workman is the Communications Specialist in the Office of Communications and Public Relations.
This month I will be 72 years young, though my knees might argue the point. I walk with a cane for the most part and am happy to have it. It’s great for getting boxes and cans off the top shelf in the supermarket, and it’s a reminder to me that I have finally learned to accept who I am, with all my imperfections. That’s growth, hard earned and long in coming.
There have been many lessons to learn over that many years, and one I am still trying very hard to fully embrace is my respect for time, our most valuable gift from God. I began to consider the meaning of time in earnest the year my father died. I had driven to Albany with my six children to visit him and my mom, and, as might be expected, things get crazy when you are trying to pack up the car and round up the kids to start the journey home.
As I drove away, I looked in the rearview mirror and saw my dad standing in the street waving us good-bye with a forlorn look on his face. I realized I had not given him a hug or told him I loved him before I left. I consoled myself with the thought that I would make up for it the next time I saw him. But there was no next time. I let unnecessary obligations
of my dad waving us good-bye, but the loss was a transforming experience for me. Following his death, as I was cleaning out his den, I came across a book of poetry. Tucked between the pages of Carl Sandburg’s poems was an old newspaper clipping with a quote attributed to Sandburg: “Time is the coin of your life. It
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lenge to be intentional about how to spend time, and to have insight enough to know when other people are using my time without my consent. Part of the process has been learning that I should be the one making the decisions since time is the coin of my life. I wouldn’t give anyone access to my bank account and tell them to “have at it!” Why was I basically saying the same thing to others about something more important – the days of my life.
Since then, in my world of introspection, time moved to the top of the priority list, as I tried to build a spiritual frame around it, in part because it is a spiritual endeavor, and partly because I was trying to find a reason to justify my saying, “No” more often to people and circumstances - a word that is incredibly hard for me but essential for anyone trying to be intentional with time. To help me stay on track, I include Psalm 90:12 in my prayers, adapting it slightly to make it personal: “So, teach me to count my days that I may gain a wise heart.”
cold cup of water in the face. Truly, I was letting other people spend my time, but I had never thought of it in that way. I could hear the theme of one of my mom’s favorite soap operas: “Like sands through the hourglass, so are the days of our lives.” In his own unique way of sneaking up on me with some gem of wisdom, my dad was helping me move forward with my desire to use my time wisely, something which he had learned well in living through the Great Depression.
But honestly, it has been a real chal-
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Today I find that God, like my dad, likes to sneak up on me as well, with bits of wisdom, often in nature and often in others who have already learned their lessons. The “nos” have become easier and patches of peaceful unencumbered moments rise up when least expected.
This morning, as I pulled around the building to park my car for work, a young deer ran, leaping and seemingly bouncing, through the tall grass that borders the offices. Then she would stop, look around and return to her obvious enjoyment of her life. I stopped my car just to watch and spent five minutes inspired by one of God’s beautiful creatures doing what I have been trying to do more of for a lot of years. It was a good start to the day.
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Rising Mount Saint Mary Academy senior, Lila Keller, is the recipient of the Girl Scout Gold Award. Lila’s project, “Bring Back the Bats” was designed to combat the declining population of bats in Union County. She is a member of Girl Scout Troop 40380 in New Providence. Habitat destruction, pollution and disease have reduced the number of bats, resulting in an increased mosquito population. To tackle the problem, Lila worked with a local wildlife biologist to determine the predominant local species of bats. They detected population of Little Brown Bats in the area based on echolocation feedback from sound recordings. Lila, a resident of Summit, constructed and installed four giant bat
boxes specifically for this species in high mosquito areas of Union County parks. She then held an informational workshop at the Trailside Nature Center to teach others about the importance of bats, and to provide instructions on making bat houses. She also filmed, edited, and produced an informative video demonstrating how to build the bat houses, which can be viewed from the center’s website.
Lila was additionally recognized by the Girl Scouts Heart of New Jersey with the Change Maker Award, which recognizes the outstanding achievements of Girl Scouts who have earned their Bronze, Silver, and Gold Awards.
—Courtesy photo
World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly will be observed on July 28 this year.
By Silvio Cuéllar
During my high school years, I lived with my grandmother Matilde. Sunday night was a sacred time when she would always take me to church. Back then, I lived in Santa Cruz de la Sierra, Bolivia, and we had two options to go to Mass: Our Lady of the Rosary Church, three blocks away, or the Salesians’ Maria Auxiliadora parish, a little further, five blocks away. During those years, it was my grandmother – who I’d see praying every night before going to sleep – who planted the seed of faith in my heart.
In his apostolic exhortation Amoris Laetitia, Pope Francis reminds us of the importance of grandparents in family life and how their role can be fundamental in transmitting the Catholic faith to future generations. The Holy Father invites us to reflect on the importance of this intergenerational connection and its impact on the spiritual growth of our families.
“Very often it is grandparents who ensure that the most important values are passed down to their grandchildren, and ‘many people can testify that they owe their initiation into the Christian life to their grandparents,’” noted the Pope.
That was my experience, not only with my own abuelitas but also with my children’s grandparents.
My wife Becky and I were blessed to have my in-laws, Paul and Barbara, just 10 minutes from home. They were a great help to us, supporting us during the extracurricular activities of our seven children. They were always present at soccer tournaments, musical performances, and plays and they are the ones who taught my children about the lives of the saints.
When involved in the lives of their grandchildren, grandparents can become the family’s treasure – their experience, wisdom and unconditional love can become an invaluable legacy that nurtures and strengthens family life.
Through their words, prayers and
actions, grandparents can be beacons of spiritual light, guiding their grandchildren toward a deeper relationship with God and teaching them the value of prayer, mercy, forgiveness and Christian love.
The Pope also wrote: “A family that fails to respect and cherish its grandparents, who are its living memory, is already in decline, whereas a family that remembers has a future.” In our modern society, where the elderly often end up alone and isolated, this is a great challenge.
Recently my dad had three strokes and had to be in a rehabilitation center twice, but it was very difficult for him to feel alone and away from the family. In that place, his mental health worsened, and he started to get depressed. Ultimately, my siblings and I decided to take him home and take turns nursing him, so he would not feel alone. There was no perfect solution but being at home gave him more tranquility and peace in his heart. Sadly, I was able to observe how
many elderly people live in neglect and loneliness in rehabilitation centers for the elderly.
Grandparents can also be key pillars in the formation of a strong faith community, encouraging the passing on of family traditions and stories. In this regard, Pope Francis affirmed: “Listening to the elderly tell their stories is good for children and young people; it makes them feel connected to the living history of their families, their neighborhoods and their country.”
I was not able to share much with my grandparents since they passed away when I was very young, but I carry in my heart the many stories that my grandmothers told me. My grandmother Elsa used to tell me how she emigrated from a small town to the city. With a lot of effort and hard work, she was able to progress and own a hotel, restaurant and store. My grandmother Matilde would tell me fascinating stories about her great-great-grandfather, an adventurous
explorer in northern Bolivia bordering the Amazon, looking for the trees to extract rubber, for making tires.
Grandparents have an essential role as transmitters of the faith. Their love, wisdom and testimony are invaluable gifts that can strengthen family ties and nurture the spirituality of future generations. At the same time, we must not leave them alone and isolated from our families, within what the Pope calls a “throwaway culture.”
Let us take advantage of the treasure of our grandparents, their stories and their support, to build strong Catholic families and communities where elders are respected, and the faith is lived and transmitted with joy and love.
Silvio Cuéllar is a writer, liturgical music composer and journalist. He was coordinator of the Hispanic Ministry office and editor of the newspaper El Católico de Rhode Island, the newspaper of the Diocese of Providence.
Long hours, high-stress environments, and the blend of both joyful and heartbreaking situations define the daily lives of healthcare professionals. On June 25 at The Palace at Somerset, one of New Jersey’s leading business publications, NJBIZ, presented its 2024 Health Care Heroes Awards with three of Saint Peter’s University Hospital’s professionals as recipients. The NJBIZ Health Care Heroes awards were created to recognize excellence, promote innovation, and honor the efforts of individuals and organizations making a significant impact on the quality of health care in New Jersey. The awards spotlight exceptional achievements across 11 categories with Saint Peter’s recognized as follows:
Nayan Kothari, MD, MACP, FRCP (Edin) Chief Academic Officer, Emeritus Chairman, and Program Director, Department of Medicine
Saint Peter’s University Hospital
Dr. Kothari is responsible for establishing the Simulation Center for Interprofessional Learning at Saint Peter’s. The Simulation Center provides hands-on training of complex procedures and newly introduced protocols to physicians and other healthcare providers in a supervised environment. The exercises involve working on mannequins, something that allows for elevated confidence and expertise in the event of a real-life emergency. Exercises in the Simulation Center and the Institute for Bedside Medicine help healthcare providers hone bedside medicine skills and allows for maintenance of medical certifications. The Simulation Center was recently dedicated as the Nayan K. Kothari MD Simulation Center for Interprofessional Learning in his honor.
Dr. Kothari is the first person outside of the United Kingdom to receive the Presidential Medal for Excellence in Medical Education from The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (RCPE) and is a member of the board of The Society of Bedside Medicine, a global community dedicated to bedside teaching and improving physical examinations and diagnostic skills. He is also past Governor of the New Jersey Southern Region of the American College of Physicians (ACP), the national organization of internists and the largest medical specialty organization working to support the physician-patient relationship and the profession of internal medicine. Dr. Kothari has been a valued mentor to numerous medical students and to physicians in all stages of their careers.
“Establishing the Simulation Center for Interprofessional Learning at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, along with the Institute for Bedside Manner, has been a cornerstone of my commitment to advancing medical education. This hands-on training improves both the outcomes of patients and the training of healthcare providers and reaffirms the importance of innovative learning methods to achieve success in this field,” said Dr. Kothari.
Pamela Harmon, DNP, MSN, RNC-NIC Director, Women and Children’s Division, Respiratory Care Department and The Center for Sleep and Breathing Disorders; Administrative Director, Mary V. O’Shea Birth Center
Saint Peter’s University Hospital
Harmon is a self-directed visionary responsible for advancing maternal care at Saint Peter’s. Helping to launch the state’s first nationally accredited hospital-owned, midwifery-led Birth Center, she continues her work by mentoring other hospitals planning to open birth centers as a member of the National Board of Birth Centers. She is also a board member of The Council of Women’s and Infants’ Specialty Hospitals (CWISH), a collaborative of 14 maternity hospitals that promotes best practices, supporting programs and national policies for women’s and infants’ healthcare services. Harmon created “Face Time in the NICU,” connecting parents to their premature newborns in critical care via a secure livestream, and launched TeamBirth, an initiative giving pregnant women more control over their birth experience by improving communication with the birth team, resulting in better outcomes while decreasing the equity gap.
“By launching efforts like the midwifery-led Birth Center, ‘Face Time in the NICU,’ and TeamBirth, I strive to empower women, support families, and improve outcomes for women and their newborns. This recognition inspires me to continue pushing the boundaries of what is possible in maternal care,” said Harmon.
Avril Keldo, DNP, MSN, ANP-BC, RN-BC, OCN Director of Professional Practice and Clinical Education and Research, The Nayan K. Kothari MD Simulation Center for Interprofessional Learning and Medical Library, Saint Peter’s University Hospital
Keldo is committed to mentoring fellow nurses and an advocate for higher education in nursing. Keldo plays a pivotal role in doing so by delivering an optimum clinical experience in nurse recruitment and retention, promoting workshops focused on acute care skills, and advocating for hands-on training in the Simulation Center for Interprofessional Learning. Keldo is cognizant of the need for nurse mentors and is an advocate for the recruiting nurse mentors for new nurses transitioning to practice.
Well aware of daily stressors impacting nurses, she fostered the creation of departmental serenity spaces for nurses to recharge and reflect. To relieve staffing challenges, Keldo initiated the hospital’s Patient Care Technician Training Program, which provides hands-on patient-care training with a registered nurse to individuals without prior experience. She also spearheads the Nurse Residency Program.
“By promoting hands-on training and launching innovative programs, we can empower the next generation of nursing professionals, but just as important is offering a time and place to recharge from the challenging environment we are committed to traversing on a daily basis,” said Keldo
The Catholic Spirit would like to say Thank you! to our student writers who have been a wonderful addition to our newspaper.
St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison
Elizabeth Bera ’25
St. Joseph High School, Metuchen
Nereo Rossi ‘24
Jack Kemler ‘24
Benjamin Chadwick ‘23
St. Peter’s Healthcare Heroes, from left, Avril Keldo, Dr. Nayan Kothari, and Pamela Harmon.
We encourage you to remember the words of Jane Yolen, an American writer of fantasy, science fiction and children’s books, who has written or edited more than 350 books:
“Exercise the writing muscle every day, even if it is only a letter, notes, a title list, a character sketch, a journal entry. Writers are like dancers, like athletes. Without that exercise, the muscles seize up.”
We welcome student writers from any of the four high schools in the Diocese. Contact the Catholic Spirit at mmorrell@diometuchen.org.
volleyball team, the five seniors from this past school year established a new standard as the program’s first two-time state champions.
The Falcons went back-to-back by winning five postseason matches, culminating with a 2-0 victory against Garfield on June 6 in the Group II championship game.
St. Joseph has now seized five state titles and seven sectional titles. To put that dominance into perspective, only three volleyball programs in New Jersey have won more state titles.
Up until 2022, the New Jersey State Interscholastic Athletic Association crowned only one state champion per season in volleyball. Then it switched to four group champions last year, and yet St. Joseph remains the only Group II school (the second-smallest school designation behind Group I) to ever capture a state title in volleyball.
“Our boys know that each and every day, teams walk into our gym to try and take us down,” said Miguel Cabrita, who completed his 20th season as head coach.
“For some programs, beating St. Joe’s is the pinnacle of their season. Our players learn to respect that attitude from other teams and to use it as motivation for us not to just hand teams wins.”
Cabrita knows what it takes as a St. Joseph volleyball lifer, as he was a freshman at the school during its first season and graduated in 1991. He returned as an assistant coach in 1994 and has been part of the staff for every state title beginning in 2002.
In addition to routinely competing against bigger public school programs such as Old Bridge, Monroe and South Brunswick, the Falcons prepare for the biggest matches of the season through advanced training behind the scenes.
“Our boys have become more and more involved in club volleyball in the off-season as well as training at various summer camps to keep their skill sets growing,” said Cabrita, NJ.com’s Greater
Middlesex Conference Coach of the Year.
“With our athletes coming from eight different counties in New Jersey, the challenge is how do they develop team chemistry in the offseason when they all come from so many different areas and play for different club teams or programs?”
Noah Stout, Shlok Patel, Johan Vaidyan, Jason Nawrocki and John-Paul Farrelly were the five seniors who guided the team throughout the season.
“What we need to do in season is work on the team aspects of the game while also honing their overall skills,” Cabrita said. “I have always told my teams that we may not start off each season in top form, but we will always finish our seasons at our best, and if they trust in the coaches and in our system, they will see those rewards in the end.”
Junior Gian Gomez stepped into a huge role for the team this year and dominated on the court with 314 kills, 20.5 blocks, 124 digs, 10 assists and 38 assists. He was also an All-State Second Team selection by NJ.com.
A few others who contributed significantly on the state sheet were sophomore Dominic Nycz (285 kills and 136 digs), junior Sam Contursi (436 assists and 107 digs), Stout (375 digs) and Patel (123 kills). Nawrocki brought a unique vocal leadership.
“What brings our team together especially at the end of practices and before our matches is our faith. We are bonded by our Catholic beliefs, and our boys always pray as a team before each match,” Cabrita said. “Where other Catholic programs may pray before each match, Jason took it to the next level and delivered a personalized, unique prayer specific to the match and circumstances
we were going to face and tied it all together with powerful Bible passages that truly inspired our players. Our pregame warm-up would not be complete without Jason’s prayers, and often at times, no matter what the boys were doing before the start of each match, you would hear them all yell over to Jason and say, ‘Jay we are ready, bring us in, let’s pray.’”
St. Joseph boasts an overall record of 818-237 and has qualified for the state tournament in all but one of its 34 seasons. The program has developed 34 athletes to play NCAA volleyball and 79 to play collegiate club volleyball.
Cabrita credits the geographical diversity of the program to the school’s academics, extracurriculars and strong college placements.
“Up until perhaps in the last five years, we weren’t really getting volleyball players because volleyball for boys prior to high school was almost non-existent,” Cabrita said. “There were some boys that started playing club early before high school, but for those with middle school teams, they tended to be public school teams, and those players traditionally continued on with their high school teams. On occasion, we would benefit from younger siblings of our players who because their older brother got into volleyball in high school, many of them started playing in their younger years. So when they came to us, they were at an advantage over others just starting.”
With many talented players set to return next season, headlined by Gomez, St. Joseph wants to elevate the bar even higher and win a third straight state title. “We are a young team, and now that they have tasted success at this level, they want to get back there again,” Cabrita said.
By Greg Johnson
Tom D’Agostino remembers when he declared during an in troductory speech eight years ago as St. Thomas Aquinas’ new head baseball coach that he knew the school could build a winning pro gram because there was a strong foundation and support system.
“I didn’t know how long it was gonna be,” said D’Agostino, a former player and proud 2002 graduate of the school when it was called Bishop Ahr. “You have to learn how to win, and that was the biggest thing for these guys.”
The Trojans have developed depth and grown with experience since that initial 2017 season, and they took a monumental step this past spring by winning the NJSIAA Non-Public B North championship. It was only the program’s second sectional title and the first since 2006.
“We felt like coming into the year that we had a great group of
kids … some new guys, returning guys and incoming guys,” D’Agostino said. “We just felt like it was kind of just the perfect storm for us as far as talent-wise.”
With a thrilling 5-3 victory over Rutgers Prep in the sectional final on June 1, St. Thomas Aquinas won 19 games for the first time under D’Agostino.
“This year we really clicked as a whole team,” said sophomore Louis Rizzolo, an Iselin native who aspires to play baseball at the next level. “We all cared about each other, we all loved each other. We were just one big family.”
In other years the Trojans might have mentally checked out at some point during the season. Or, as Rizzolo recalls from stories that the coaches have told, there were days early in the program’s rebuilding process when some players knew little about the sport and could barely catch a baseball.
Those days are long gone. St. Thomas Aquinas now features a plethora of talented, high-character kids from freshmen through seniors, and it’s a team that has earned respect across New Jersey with at least 15 wins in three straight seasons after totaling 33 in the previous four seasons.
“It just shows the dedication that our coaches have for baseball and our school and the sport, and they really wanted us to get there and win that {sectional title},” Rizzolo said.
Senior Gavin Sansone set the tone as an outfielder and a pitcher with .352 batting average, 22 RBI, 48 innings pitched, 69 strikeouts and a 2.04 ERA. Fittingly, the Long Island University baseball commit stroked a game-winning three-run homer in the sixth inning of the sectional final.
Freshman Nikash Patel (1.19 ERA in 41.1 innings) and Rizzolo (1.74 ERA in 48.1 innings) also dominated on the mound in that game and throughout the season, while each batting over .300.
“Nikash as a freshman did a heck of a job coming in and just giving us innings and then turning the ball over to a sophomore, Louis Rizzolo, and giving us a shot to win the game, and ultimately with Sansone’s home run, that place was
its home field.
Senior Benji Pabon (Georgian Court University baseball commit) was another crucial pitcher out of the bullpen with a 1.83 ERA. Meanwhile, junior Will Bethea belted a team-high four home runs and sophomore Hunter Krainski had a team-high .361 batting average.
While D’Agostino has had his brother Frank, and two other assistants for basically his whole tenure, he hired three fresh voices onto his staff this season including Nick Dini, a former professional player.
“When we showed up to practice, it seemed like we wanted to be there and we worked hard,” Rizzolo said. “While we were working hard and putting in work, we were also having a lot of fun doing it. We added a few guys to our coaching staff, and they joined in and gave it all they had. We bought in and we liked everything they said. We listened and we executed what they taught us, so that really helped.”
One trait that stood out to D’Agostino this spring was his team’s ability to grind out at-bats so that it was never easy for opponents to record 21 outs.
That level of focus stemmed from determined players who remembered the exact date when they had lost to Gill St. Bernard’s in last year’s Non-Public B North quarterfinals – May 26, 2023 –when pitchers and catchers first reported to practice this past March.
“I give all the credit to the coaches and the players because throughout the course of the year, the chemistry, the bond that they built and coming together for a common goal,” D’Agostino said. “It was a magical year for these guys and something that they’ll always love.”
St. Thomas Aquinas ultimately lost the Non-Public B state championship game to powerhouse Gloucester Catholic, but the future looks bright as the standard keeps rising.
Rizzolo believes in being a vocal leader because energy translates to a more fun environment. And the Trojans had plenty of fun during a historic spring filled with diverse experiences.
“Throughout the whole season it really built character for our team, and I think that the chemistry and the family environment that we had really made this season something special,” Rizzolo said. “It showed in us playing.”
Sansone batted .352 during his senior season and is committed to playing Division I baseball at Long Island University.
—Courtesy photos
1 First king of Israel 5 Monastery head 10 Do an usher’s job
“___ time…”
Water holes 16 Redemptorist community (abbr.) 17 960, to Nero 18 Battery terminal
Assess
“Norma ___”
21 Type of neckline
22 St. ___, King of France
23 Made possible 25 NT epistle 27 Avian migration form
28 David or Saul, for example 33 Bundle
35 Sheet music detail
36 Tool of trade for Peter and Andrew 37 Confined
38 Do a grocer’s job 39 From a distance 40 Malt beverage 41 Biblical food
42 Trap 43 Secondary occupations
45 Symbol of Confirmation
46 Notre ___
47 Australia’s first Catholic prime minister
51 Theme 54 “…and there was no man to ___ the ground” (Gen 2:5)
55 Serpent’s tail?
56 Thick slice 57 Warm-water mackerel 59 Capable
60 Respiratory organ of fish 61 Golf clubs
62 Musher’s carrier 63 Part
Curt 65 Like Spot and Puff
1 First word in the name of Parisian basilica 2 Hindu principle of life 3 Bread of the Passover
Brine-cured salmon 5 Alert 6 The first electric motor was made by a monk of this order 7 Sudden misfortune 8 ___ Testament
Literary monogram
Meal for Ezekiel?
11 He lost his birthright 12 ___ Spumanti
13 Very, in Versailles
21 Musical staff sign
22 Told an untruth
24 “They shall ___ their swords into plowshares…” (Isa 2:4)
59 Bane of Cleopatra
Jenna Marie Cooper, who holds a licentiate in canon law, is a consecrated virgin and a canonist whose column appears weekly at OSV News. Send your questions to CatholicQA@osv.com.
If a Catholic couple gets married in the Church but later it emerges that one of them is suffering from a severe mental illness with psychotic episodes, can that marriage be declared invalid due to mental health issues?
AYes, in principle severe mental illness can be a reason why a marriage might be declared null. However, every situation is unique and the question of whether a particular marriage might be invalid depends on a number of specific and nuanced details. This is why, if a marriage is suspected to be invalid due to the psychiatric illness of one of the spouses, the case must be
evaluated by a marriage tribunal in a for mal nullity process.
Canon 1095 in the Code of Canon Law addresses the question of psychological issues impacting the validity of a marriage. As the canon states:
“The following are incapable of contracting marriage:
1 those who lack sufficient use of reason;
2 those who suffer from a grave lack of discretionary judgment concerning the essential matrimonial rights and obligations to be mutually given and accepted;
3 those who, because of causes of a psychological nature, are unable to assume the essential obligations of marriage.”
Canon 1095, 1 covers situations where a potential spouse is not fully in touch with reality, such as a dementia patient or someone in active psychosis.
Canon 1095, 2 deals with situations where a potential spouse may be fundamentally lucid, but is still unable to evaluate the choice of marriage in a rational way. For example, a person recovering from a recent traumatic experience might not be psychologically capable of making a major life decision from a place of emotional clarity and adequate interior freedom.
Canon 1095, 3 covers situations where a potential spouse might indeed be able to rationally evaluate the choice of marriage, but where a psychological issue
would prevent them from actually doing the things necessary to be married – or by the same token, where a psychological condition compels them to do things incompatible with marriage. For instance, certain kinds of compulsive disorders might render a person incapable of marital fidelity or incapable of making any kind of permanent commitment.
Keep in mind that in canon law, a formal psychiatric diagnosis is not as important as the way in which a condition manifests itself. Many disorders have a range of severity and can affect different individuals differently. The same disorder might leave one person capable of marital consent (even if it negatively impacts their life in other serious ways) but might make another person totally incapacitated in this regard. Additionally, there are some psychic states, like intoxication, which are not psychiatric disorders, but which might still leave someone unable to consent to marriage.
And while some mental illnesses are chronic and ongoing, others are time-limited or situational, or only arise later in life. In order for a marriage to be considered invalid due to psychological reasons, the mental issue in question must have been present in at least some form at the time of the wedding. Because marriage is meant to perdure “in sickness and in health,” a mental illness that only came about years into the marriage would not make the original consent invalid.
With all this in mind, your example of “severe mental illness with psychotic episodes” is certainly something that could prompt a marriage nullity process. In such a case, a tribunal judge would probably ask about the onset of this illness; how functional the person was between episodes; and whether the person was in the midst of an episode at the time of consent.
However, at the beginning of a nullity process no tribunal can ever guarantee that a particular marriage will or will not be declared null. Even in what might look like a very strong case for nullity, the marriage bond must always be presumed valid until proven otherwise.
By Deacon Steven D. Greydanus, Special Contributor
For viewing information for Jesus Thirsts, see jesusthirstsfilm.com.
One thing I remember about first grappling as a young evangelical with the Catholic understanding of the Eucharist was not just how different the Catholic teaching was from the symbolic communion ritual that I had grown up with, but how much larger the whole topic loomed in Catholic thought, praxis, and imagination. It’s not that I thought of Communion as unimportant! For many of my formative years we were active members of an Episcopal church, where the Eucharist was the culmination of Sunday worship. The solemnity and reverence of the liturgy went deep in me, and I loved the Eucharist—but in my mind it was important like a wedding ring, an important symbol. I was gobsmacked by Flannery O’Connor’s much-quoted “If it’s just a symbol, the hell with it.” I didn’t understand it, but I knew I wanted to.
Documentarian Tim Moriarty’s Jesus Thirsts: The Miracle of the Eucharist comes at the mystery of the Eucharist in a number of ways. There are vignettes spotlighting the role of the Eucharist in communities around the world, from a Beaumont, Texas prison to a village in Uganda to young people at a SEEK conference hosted by FOCUS (the Fellowship of Catholic University Students). There are wordless dramatizations of relevant Bible episodes, from Abraham’s encounter with Melchizedek and the first Passover in Egypt to the Last Supper and the Emmaus road encounter, accompanied by commentary from Catholic scholars, clergy, and other commentators. A pair of segments bring us to two Franciscan communities—one of friars who tend a vineyard in Slovenia and make wine for communion, and one of sisters in Bosnia and Herzegovina who make hosts. There are Eucharistic processions, an exploration of Eucharistic miracles, and even a graphical segment aiming to clarify the philosophical categories behind the language and concept of transubstantiation.
If a single impression arises from this diversity of material, it might be simply this: the immensity of the Eucharist, which the Catechism of the Catholic Church, following the Second Vatican Council, calls “the source and summit of the Christian life” (CCC 1324). Whatever beliefs viewers may bring to this film, should they not accept Catholic teaching regarding the Eucharist, they will at least not mistake the point of difference for a minor one.
Mark Wahlberg), who has spoken at “I Thirst” Events, was also, with Moriarty, a producer on Mother Teresa: No Greater Love
A drama is only as good as its antagonist, and here—as with the Eucharistic revival itself—the antagonist is the headline-making ignorance about, and lack of faith in, the Eucharist, as highlighted by a much-discussed 2019 Pew Research poll, which found that just one-third of Catholics believe in the Real Presence of Jesus in the Eucharist. More recent polls, conducted by CARA (the Center for Applied Research at Georgetown University) and Vinea Research, have come to more encouraging conclusions, but even significantly different ratios are differences in degree, and the need for evangelization, catechesis, and renewal remains.
Along with Deacon Greco and Wahlberg (an ex-con here seen speaking to prisoners), the long list of contributors includes Scott Hahn of Franciscan University; Magis Center founder Fr. Robert Spitzer, SJ; FOCUS founder Curtis Martin; author and speaker Teresa Tomeo; and Noelle Mering of the Ethics and Public Policy Center. Executive producer and filmmaker Eduardo Verástegui has the most visually striking talking-head segments, with Saint Peter’s Basilica as a backdrop.
This is a poster for the documentary “Jesus Thirsts: The Miracle of the Eucharist.” Written and directed by Tim Moriarty. —OSV News photo/Fathom Events
From the opening, the immensity of the Eucharist is evoked, among other ways, in the film’s exploration of the Church’s universality. The first words we hear, after a prologue featuring archival narration by Archbishop Fulton Sheen, are in Slovenian; the images are of the vineyard and winery run by the Friars Minor Conventional in Ptuj, Slovenia’s oldest recorded town. Other segments are in Croatian, Italian, Polish, Spanish, Swahili, Vietnamese – eight languages in all, according to the director, in segments shot in seven countries on three continents. Too many international faithbased documentaries I’ve reviewed have been marred for American consumption by English dubbing. Jesus Thirsts uses subtitles, preserving the integrity of each subject’s presence and identity with their voice and the culture that stands behind it. Evangelization is inseparable from the credibility of the evangelist, and credibility involves the whole of a person, including their voice.
Jesus Thirsts emerged from efforts related to the ongoing, three-year National Eucharistic Revival sponsored by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops – in particular, from a series of conferences, called “I Thirst,” organized by Deacon Steve Greco, founder of Spirit Filled Hearts Ministry and director of Evangelization and Faith Formation at the Diocese of Orange. Evangelist Jim Wahlberg (brother of
Perhaps the most memorable contributions are in the segment on Venerable Cardinal Francis-Xavier Nguyễn Văn Thuận, who spent 13 years in a Vietnamese communist reeducation camp, including nine years in solitary confinement. Through interviews with his sister Elisabeth and others, along with lowkey reenactments and archival footage of Cardinal Văn Thuận himself, Jesus Thirsts relates how, during his long imprisonment, family members and others were able to smuggle bread and wine to him to celebrate secret Masses. In brief archival interview clips, Cardinal Văn Thuận credits the Eucharist with his endurance, and movingly relates how he was able to tell astonished guards that, despite his long and brutal suffering, he loved them very much.
Cardinal Văn Thuận is the film’s most extreme example of the drama of the Eucharist in the lives of people who are suffering, poor, or marginal – a theme seen also in the Beaumont prison and in Uganda. These are among the film’s best sequences; I would have liked to see Jesus Thirsts take this one step further. “The Eucharist commits us to the poor,” the Catechism teaches. “To receive in truth the Body and Blood of Christ given up for us, we must recognize Christ in the poorest, his brethren” (CCC 1398) St. John Chrysostom forcefully declared, “Do you want to honor Christ’s body? Do not neglect him when he is naked; do not, while you honor him here with silken garments, neglect him perishing outside of cold and nakedness. For he that said ‘This is my body,’ and by his word confirmed the fact, also said, ‘You saw me hungry and you did not feed me’” (Homily 50 on Matthew).
Bishop Robert Barron (briefly seen in Jesus Thirsts at the 2019 bishops’ meeting) recently proposed that “the higher you go liturgically, the lower you should go in service of the poor.” Jesus Thirsts goes quite high liturgically; the liturgies showcased tend to be pull-out-the-stops celebrations with incense, elaborately embroidered vestments, servers in cassocks and surplices, etc. (They are also celebrated according to the current liturgical books, with celebrants facing ad populum, etc.; the TLM or Traditional Latin Mass is glimpsed only in brief archival footage. Eastern Divine Liturgies, alas, are not shown.) Jesus Thirsts highlights spiritual service to the poor; its treatment would be richer if it were meaningfully connected to corporal works of mercy.
Jesus Thirsts takes on an enormous subject – too enormous, surely, for any 90-minute film – and covers a lot of material well. For viewers who know enough about the Eucharist to know that they’d like to know more, including devout Catholics, notso-devout Catholics, and Catholic-curious Protestants, it will be 90 minutes well spent.
By Deacon Steven D. Greydanus Special Contributor
Tim Moriarty is the director, cow riter, and producer of Jesus Thirsts: The Miracle of the Eucharist; he’s also the founder and executive director of Cas tletown Media, the production company behind Mother Teresa: No Greater Love You might recognize him from his recur ring role on the supernatural drama series Manifest or his appearances on shows like Blue Bloods and House of Cards a documentarian, Moriarty’s directorial works include Enduring Faith: The Story of Native American Catholics; The Field Afar: The Life of Fr. Vincent Capodanno and Heart of a Missionary, about Bless ed Pauline Gianicolo. Moriarty earned a Master’s in philosophy at Boston College and a Master of Fine Arts in acting from Louisiana State University. He spoke to me recently via phone about Thirsts. Our conversation has been edited for length and clarity.
For viewing information for Jesus Thirsts, see jesusthirstsfilm.com.
You’ve directed a number of Catholic-themed documentaries, on subjects from Native American Catholics to Blessed Pauline Gianicolo and Marine Corps chaplain Vincent Capodanno. The Holy Eucharist, though, is a different kind of subject!
Yes – in fact, it was kind of terrifying to take it on, for a number of reasons! How do you possibly do justice to the subject? How do you create a film around a theological reality? It’s not like a biography or a current event.
Can you talk at all about how you did approach selection of materials, structuring the film, and so forth?
The first way in was the road to Emmaus story [in Luke 24]. It seemed to reflect where we are today in the Church: these disciples walking away from Jerusalem, dejected, in desolation. Then Jesus meets them, and goes back and opens up the scriptures to them, and then their hearts start to burn within them. And then at the breaking of the bread, their eyes are opened.
We needed to start with where we are, which is some of the disturbing statistics from the [2019] Pew Research study. There have been subsequent studies, but that’s where we were when we started the film, and the study that the bishops responded to—the impetus for the Eucharistic revival. So we wanted to start with: Where are we as a culture, and why is it so hard to believe now? And then we wanted to follow that trajectory that Jesus took, to open up the scriptures.
A second thought was, in terms of the best way to evangelize, if you’re looking at the prism of the three tran-
scendentals – the true, the good, the beautiful – it’s probably best to start with the beautiful. We wanted the film to be beautiful, to have an aesthetic quality that could draw people in. We also wanted it to be not just a pure catechetical piece. Interspersed with the scriptural and theological roots of the Eucharist, we wanted to show stories of people from around the world who represent the universal nature of the Church.
So you wanted to begin with beauty. Is there a particular sequence that you are especially proud of in terms of visual power?
It’s a good question. I think, for me, the prison scene in Beaumont, Texas. There’s a way in which the beauty and power of the Eucharist is most manifest when human beings are brought to the lowest, where there’s utter humility. You see the devotion the prisoners show in receiving Christ. There’s imagery that’s much more beautiful in the vineyard and various other places. But there’s something in that sequence that I find moving and humbling: the deep gratitude and peace these men have as they receive Christ.
I thought one of the more striking shots was in the Beaumont sequence, where we see a prisoner with his face in his tattooed hands and a rosary hanging from his hands.
Yeah. There’s a Hispanic prisoner we interviewed who says something like, “Many people here pray: Lord, take me
rich diversity of the Church.
You did stay, I think, entirely in the Latin tradition. Was there any thought or discussion about engaging the Divine Liturgy in the Eastern churches?
It’s true, and frankly we should have done so – especially because many members of my team actually grew up in that tradition. So that’s a good thing to note that was omitted, unfortunately.
Other than that, is there any other subject or sequence, something that you wanted to do that never happened?
One thing I would have loved to do would be to track a journey for somebody who’s totally on the outside and get a sense of inviting them in. We see a little bit of it with the Sisters of Life talking about a young girl who comes in and doesn’t know what prayer is! How do you awaken that in somebody who doesn’t have it? It’s akin to somebody who has no appreciation of music and you play Mozart. How do you create conditions for God to work and open up a person’s spiritual eyes? That’s something we’ve been thinking about.
out of here. My prayer is: Do what you will with me.” Just, wow.
You also mentioned the Emmaus road segment being a way into the film. I thought that tied into two of the more notable cinematic moments in the film, one being the moment of the two disciples’ enlightenment, depicted through a rapid flash of images of Jesus’ life, ministry, crucifixion. And later in the film you intercut between images of the Emmaus road and Eucharistic processions, which I thought was also very effective—like we’re on the same journey.
Yeah. That was the sense of one of the interviews we did with Father Spitzer. He talks a lot about the relationship between sacred time and temporal time, and how the Eucharist is this breaking of the eternal into the temporal. The use of images where we go back and forward in time, from all parts of the world, was an attempt to convey that sense.
After the prologue, your film opens in Slovenia, in the vineyard operated by the Franciscans. There’s the sequence in Uganda with people speaking Swahili. There’s Spanish, Italian, Vietnamese … How many countries and languages did you shoot in?
There were seven countries in three continents. I’d have to go back and count all the languages—let me get back to you on that! But yeah, we wanted to show the
As an actor on shows like Blue Bloods, Luke Cage, and Manifest, you have a lot of experience in the world of fiction. Do you have a preference between fiction and nonfiction? Is Catholic-themed fiction an area where you might be interested in working in the future?
I love both for different reasons. Documentaries can be powerful, both in terms of the journalistic approach and the way you can reveal a slice of life through powerful interviews, to really see a fleshand-blood person. Fiction can be truer than true, in a funny way. We’re very interested in both at Castletown.
I think there’s a renaissance happening in the Catholic world of film. As the mainstream is dissolving, there are a lot of new opportunities to share stories that are grounded and rooted in a Catholic worldview. I think that the era of Catholic content being somewhat subpar is falling to the wayside. Catholic art needs to be Catholic from the root, to be the best art out there. Art is ultimately about revealing a truth that stops people in their tracks, that changes their life. That’s the kind of work that we want to be engaged in.
Steven D. Greydanus, a deacon for the Archdiocese of Newark, has been writing about film since 2000, when he created Decent Films, for film appreciation and criticism informed by Catholic faith. For 10 years he co-hosted the Gabriel Award–winning cable TV show “Reel Faith” for New Evangelization Television, has appeared frequently on Catholic radio and written for a number of Catholic outlets.
All of us are faced with the daily onslaught of sin and temptation. We are all involved in a spiritual battle to keep our souls united with Christ so we can attain heaven.
The Screwtape Letters and the Catechism brings together two wonderful and significant resources that can help us to grow in spiritual courage. Engaging the Catechism of the Catholic Church from a new perspective, against the backdrop of C. S. Lewis’ classic The Screwtape Letters, this book will help you to recognize temptation and engage in the battle against sin. Following Lewis and the Catechism, you will learn how to use the teachings of Christ to outwit the evil one.
In this book, each chapter of The Screwtape Letters is cross-referenced with the Catechism. By examining the dialogue between the demons Wormwood and Screwtape, we can apply Screwtape’s lessons on temptation to our daily lives. The Catechism provides sound and reasonable explanations of the Catholic Faith, and these explanations debunk the methods of Screwtape. C.S. Lewis masterfully invites us into the diabolical world of Screwtape and Wormwood and the ever-present battle between good and evil. The Catechism, on the other hand, masterfully reveals the teachings of Jesus Christ as a living gift of the Church that shows us the love of God for his children.
“This is a wonderfully creative, practical, and inspired book! Dr. De La Torre invites us to look anew at C. S. Lewis’s classic work on the wiles of the enemy, augments it with rich insights from The Catechism of the Catholic Church, and makes it all easily applicable to our daily lives. Scripture, Lewis, the Catechism, prayer … settle in for a feast!” — Fr. John Riccardo, Executive Director of ACTS XXIX
Catechism of the Catholic Church with Theological Commentary
While the Catechism of the Catholic Church is considered “useful reading” for all the faithful, it is often necessary to turn to bishops, pastors, catechists, and scholars for assistance in understanding its meaning and purpose in our lives.
Perfect for priests, deacons, catechetical leaders, teachers, seminarians, and anyone who wants to dive deeply into the truth and beauty of the Catholic Faith.
Enter the Narrow Gate Saint Benedict’s Steps to Christian Maturity
The choices we make each day have eternal ramifications, and there can be no compromise between the narrow way and the easy road. Ultimately, each of us must face – and answer – this all-important question: Are we willing to enter through the narrow gate and follow the narrow way all the way to heaven?
El Evangelio Segun San Juan – 7 – 9 p.m., St. John Neumann Pastoral Center. Sponsored by the Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry, under the guidance of Father Gustavo Amell, the program will give participants an opportunity to study and reflect on the Gospel according to Saint John. Cost is $25 with a special discount for those attending the Diocesan Hispanic Bible School. For more information and registration visit: http://diocesan.org/taller-de-biblia-introduction or contact: Lescobar@diometuchen.org
Marriage Encounter Weekend – Sponsored by the Office of Human Life & Dignity the weekend will give couples the time and tools to revitalize romance, deepen communication, and nourish the spirituality in their marriage. Space is limited so apply ASAP. For an application and information call Tom & Ruth DeFalco at 1-732-904-9636. For more information visit: www.wwme.org
Celebrate Life! A Morning for Grandparents & Seniors (55). The event will include breakfast, fellowship, presentation & Mass. There is no charge, but registration is required. For more information or to register, call Angela at 732-562-1543.
Quo Vadis, Where are you going? – Camp Shiloh, Hewitt, NJ. This is a prayer fellowship adventure with teambuilding activities. Sponsored by the Office of Vocations, this event will give attendees an opportunity to think about and pray about where God may be calling them in their life. For more information and to register visit: www.diometuchen.org/quovadis.
Fiat Day – St. Bartholomew Parish, East Brunswick. Sponsored by the Office of Religious and Consecrated Life, this is an opportunity for young women (high school students) ages 14-17 to have fun, grow in faith, and begin to think/pray about where God may be calling them in their life. Fiat is the word in Latin which Mary spoke to the angel Gabriel when she said, “Let it be done” and so agreed to become the mother of Jesus. Attendees will have the opportunity to meet religious sisters and learn about their life. More information concerning registration will be published soon.
Partnership Launch for Ministry Leaders – 8 a.m. – 4 p.m. at St. Magdalen De Pazzi Church, Flemington. Members of the leadership team of the Catechetical Institute of Franciscan Universi ty of Steubenville, Ohio, will launch the newly created diocesan partnership which will allow for unlimited access to Franciscan at Home, the Catechetical Institute’s unique, accompaniment based, on-line formation platform. The principles behind this workshop-based platform will be explained and use of the platform will be demonstrated. The August 14 event is for ministry leaders in the Dio cese including: PCLs, youth ministers, RCIA directors, Hispanic ministry leaders, adult faith formation leaders, marriage ministry leaders, and Catholic school principals. For more information contact Jill Kerekes, director, Offic.e for Discipleship Formation for Children at: jkerekes@diometuchen.org
Willing to buy your home or townhouse in as-is condition. Quick 30 day cash closing. I’m a Licensed realtor in the State of NJ. Eugene “George” Pantozzi 908-392-2677 (call or text) georgepantozzi@hotmail.com
The Diocese of Metuchen is seeking a freelance photographer to cover important events throughout the diocese, particularly the Bishop’s pastoral visits. The ideal candidate will have knowledge of how to appropriately photograph liturgical events in the Diocese and assist the Office of Communications and Public Relations, as well as The Catholic Spirit. Interested candidates should contact Jerry Wutkowski at communications@diometuchen.org.
The Catholic Spirit, the official newspaper of the Diocese of Metuchen, seeks a Graphic Designer to assist with the layout and design of its publication. The ideal candidate will have Adobe InDesign and Photoshop experience in a PC environment, be familiar with all aspects of electronic publishing, be well-organized and reliable, and have a proven track record of meeting deadlines. Interested candidates should forward their resume to hr@diometuchen.org.
Crossword Puzzle Answers:
Life-Giving Wounds Retreat – San Alfonso Retreat House, Long Branch. A unique opportunity for adult children of divorce or separation. For registration and more information visit: https://diometuchen.org/adult-children -of-divorce
NJ State Mass & March for Life – SAVE the DATE, 9:30 Mass, Cathedral of St. Mary of the Assumption, Trenton, 11 a.m., rally at the Statehouse with speakers; noon, march in the streets around the Statehouse. For more information visit: https.//marchforlife.org/newjersey/ or contact: jruggiero@ diometuchen.org or amarshall@diometuchen.org
Adoration and Mass at Pastoral Center – Now that the pandemic is over, Bishop Checchio would like to offer Eucharistic adoration at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Monday through Friday, from 9:00-11:45 a.m. As St. Pope John Paul II noted. “The Church and the world have a great need of Eucharistic adoration.” Anyone who is interested in signing up should contact Angela Marshall at amarshall@diometuchen.org
Bible Study in a Year – This virtual women’s group will be following Father Mike Schmitz’s “Bible in a Year” podcast and meeting each Sunday at 2:30 p.m. on Zoom to discuss insights from the week. For details or to participate contact Cristina at: cdaverso@diometuchen.org
Lectio Divina for Couples & Families – This virtual program for couples and families is held two Thursdays per month at 6:30 p.m. on Zoom. The program includes praying a meditative reading of a short scripture passage. For questions and more details, contact cdaverso@diometuchen.org
Immigration Talks - the Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry will be resuming immigration talks in coordination with Catholic Charities. If your parish is interested in hosting an immigration talk, email: lescobar@diometuchen.org and indicate the best day for an immigration talk to your parish and community.
August 12-16 – 2024 Summer Choir Camp, at the Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi, Mon. – Thurs., 9 a.m. – 2:30 p.m., Fri., 9 a.m. – 1:30 p.m. All rising 3rd – 8th grade students from any parish within or outside the Diocese are welcome to attend. Students will participate in choir rehearsals, and music theory classes with the camp’s music faculty, work on composer projects, and sing for the Cathedral’s daily 12:10 Mass. Outdoor activities and an opportunity to play the Cathedral’s pipe organ in included. Tuition is $250 per chorister. Registration deadline is July 8. For more information contact Christopher Deibert, director of Sacred Music, at: Music@StFrancisCathedral.org.
The August issue of The Catholic Spirit
• goes to press August 19
• ad space reservation deadline - August 2
• ad artwork deadline - August 7
• late requests considered
Sept. 14 – School Reunion and Parish Picnic, Our Lady of Lourdes, Milltown from 1 p.m. to 5 p.m. at Our Lady of Lourdes School, 44 Cleveland Avenue, Milltown. The event is rain-or-shine and will offer tours of the building with displays of memorabilia in the gym as well as fun and food outside. The Knights of Columbus’s menu for purchase outside (cash only, please) includes hamburgers, hotdogs, salads, soft drinks and water; tables and chairs will be set up under a tent, and visitors are welcome to bring their own chairs for lawn seating. Complimentary fun on site includes music, access to the playground area, Ausome Balloon Creator from 1:30 to 3:30 p.m., and FacePaint by Kate (Brown Pastore, Class of 2001) from 2 to 4 p.m. Super Tasty Ice Cream Truck will be at the Booream Avenue gate from 2:30 to 4:30 p.m. and guests can enjoy a complimentary treat up to $2.50 or pay the difference for items at a higher price. Register for event by emailing the following information to ololchurch233@gmail.com -- name(s), phone, email, whether a school attendee (please include year of graduation or attendance, and maiden name if applicable) or a parishioner, number of adults attending, number of children attending. For more information, contact Jodi Flynn at (732) 322-3220 or Bernadette Olson at (732) 991-6359.
Sept. 19-21 – Healing the Whole Person –
Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. This event is for individuals who want to deepen their relationship with Jesus, as well as people who have forgiven but are still experiencing negative emotion or feel like they bring the same sins to confession, again and again. Speakers will include: Dr. Bob Schuchts, Bart Schuchts and Sister Miriam James, SOLT. Cost is $165 in person or $119 livestream. Scholarships available. Online registration opens June 17 at 10 a.m. at: JPIIHEALINGCENTER.org. For more information contact: JPIIRetreatMetuchenNJ@ gmail.com
Sept. 23-Oct.3 - Pilgrimage to Spain, featuring Fatima, Lourdes, Barcelona. Hosted by Father Edmund Luciano III. $3899 FROM NEWARK (Air/land tour price is $3379 plus $520 gov’t taxes/airline surcharges). Featuring: Roundtrip airfare from Newark; first class/ select hotels; most meals; comprehensive sightseeing with a professional tour guide; entrance fees and hotel service charge. For more information call the parish office of the Church of Sacred Heart, South Plainfield, at 908-756-0633 or email at info@churchofthesacredheart.net.
By Sister Hosea Rupprecht OSV News
When I was a kid, my main form of media consumption was books. I used to go to the library and check out four or five Hardy Boys books at a time. I don’t know why I never got into Nancy Drew (I am a girl, after all), but I think it’s the fact that Frank and Joe Hardy had access to a speedboat! That’s neither here nor there, but once home, I snuggled into the loveseat in the living room and would read for hours. Finishing the books I borrowed, I was back to the library in less than two weeks. Ensconced on the couch during the summer months but oblivious to the sunshine outside, my mom would tell me, “Get your nose out of a book, go outside and do something constructive!”
Parents today may have to give the same admonition to their kids, but it probably goes something like this: “Get your eyes off your phone (or gaming console), go outside and do something constructive!”
In our technology-obsessed world, it’s a challenge for adults to find a good balance between tech-based activities and other stuff. It’s even more difficult for kids whose devices seem to be grafted onto their arms. During the summer months, without school to fill up their kid’s time, parents may find themselves in the same situation my mother found
herself in with me. You may ask, “How do I entice my child to put down the device and do something unplugged?”
During the upcoming summer vacation, if you notice your child glued to a screen, here are a few suggestions.
• Set reasonable time limits for digital interactions. When that time is up, help your child do something creative such as a painting, outdoor “fort” construction, bike riding or hiking, or writing an original mystery story.
• As a family, visit at least one person (or group of people) face-to-face during the summer that you’ve been wanting to visit for a while but just couldn’t seem to
—zachary-kadolph photo/unsplash
find the time.
• Use your child’s screen “obsession” to do something together as a family. Go to the movies and, afterwards, talk about the film, what you liked or didn’t like about it, and what you got out of it. Play a favorite video game together.
• Don’t forget to give some extra time to God. Try showing up for Sunday Mass 15 minutes or a half-hour early in order to pray and prepare for the celebration of the Eucharist. If your parish has Eucharistic adoration, introduce the kids to this wonderful practice that will bring them closer to the Lord and sustain them as they grow.
• Bring technology into your prayer in an appropriate way. Find a streaming audio or video Rosary to pray along with.
• Read some Bible stories together using an age-appropriate children’s bible. There’s a book called, “The Book that Changed Everything,” by Sister Allison Regina Gliot about how special the Bible is. She’s even done some videos reading various bible stories for children. Look for “Bible Read-Aloud with Sr. Allison” on YouTube.
• Get your kids into the kitchen. Look up a recipe online for something you enjoy, such as cupcakes, and bake them together. If you’re not into sugar, try doing something special on the grill. Not only is it fun but it will give your kids skills they’ll use later in life.
• Take advantage of school holiday time to get to know your kids better. Tell them stories about yourself when you were their age.
However you decide to keep your kids busy during the summer months, remember that this time is a gift, a golden opportunity to develop your relationship with them. Let conversation about anything and everything in the family be the default and not an afterthought. Give the kids time with their devices but also make sure they have the opportunity to make real world connections with other people and with the Lord.
Sister Hosea Rupprecht, a Daughter of St. Paul, is the associate director of the Pauline Center for Media Studies.
A Catholic cemetery is a holy and sacred place. It is a place of prayer and hope that is both a consolation to the bereaved and an inspiration to the living … a place where those who have worshipped and prayed together in life now await the resurrection.
Protect your family from making difficult and emotional decisions without you. Proclaim your acceptance of God’s love and your compassion for your family by making your decision today and together.