June 17, 2021

High schools in diocese hold graduation ceremonies, 13-36

Spirit atholic C THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

JUNE 17, 2021 • VOL. 26 NO. 5 • $2.00

Blessed Mother Bishop James F. Checchio blesses the refurbished Mary, Mother of Life Within statue with holy water during its rededication May 13 at the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Washington. The Shrine is dedicated to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. See story on page 6.

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

INSIDE Perspectives Our Faith

Rest in Peace

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Diocesan Events

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Funeral Mass celebrated for seminarian. . .42 This issue was mailed on June 15 Your next issue will be July 22

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Become a ‘living tabernacle,’ carry Jesus to the world

UP FRONT

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

have a serious underlying health condition. Parishioners with extenuating circumstances should consult their pastor if questions arise about the obligation to attend Mass.

Corpus Christi is a wonderful Solemnity for us to gather together.

As you know, the celebration of Mass and the reception of communion is so The Spirit is gratefully alive in important for us as followers of Jesus. our Diocese and not even a pandemic All the saints tell us the secret to life is can stop Him! Even amidst the great frequent reception of Our Lord in Holy sorrows we have experienced this past Communion! One of the greatest effects year, there have been blessings, too, of receiving the Eucharist is that we ouras some of you have shared with me selves become a “living tabernacle” carabout your renewed and rying Jesus to the world. deepened faith and a reSt. Paul understood the Ultimately, the newed appreciation for challenge of living a EuEucharist is what the Eucharist that truly is charistic life and suma gift. A fresh outpouring well the obligashould form every marized of the Holy Spirit certion of a Christian to be tainly helps us to renew aspect of our lives as a living tabernacle when ourselves and our comhe wrote, “We have mitment as Christ’s dis- Jesus’ disciples today this treasure in earthen ciples, and hence renews in our world. St. Paul vessels, so that the surand enlivens our Church. passing greatness of the As you may be saw the connection power will be of God aware, just a couple of between the Church and not from ourselves” weeks ago, the New Jer(2 Cor 4:7). sey bishops and I released Ultimately, the Euand the Eucharist a statement announcing charist is what should the reinstatement of the because both were form every aspect of our general obligation to atrevealed to be the lives as Jesus’ disciples tend Mass, beginning on today in our world. St. Body of Christ the Solemnity of the Most Paul saw the connection Holy Body and Blood of between the Church and (see 1 Cor 12:27).

Christ, the weekend of the Eucharist because June 5 and June 6. Grateboth were revealed to fully, we are again able to come home to be the Body of Christ (see 1 Cor 12:27). our parishes, gathering as a Eucharistic What is more, every sacramental comassembly around the table of the Lord to munion with Him is a moment of our receive Him in the Eucharist, the source personal transformation. In the words and summit of our faith. of St. Augustine — “we become what As has always been the case, this we eat.” Then we are commissioned to obligation does not apply to individuals go out and allow Christ to continue to who are ill; who have reason to believe touch the world through us. Additionthat they were recently exposed to the ally, in his “Sermon 272 on the Nature coronavirus or another serious or conta- of the Sacrament of the Eucharist,” St. gious illness; who are confined to their Augustine further explained the formahome, a hospital, or nursing facility; or tional power of the Eucharist and its re-

Bishop James Checchio

Catholic Spirit

JUNE 17, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

Serving the Catholic community in Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren Counties

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lationship to the Church when he wrote: “If you, therefore, are Christ’s body and members, it is your own mystery that is placed on the Lord’s table! It is your own mystery that you are receiving! You are saying ‘Amen’ to what you are: your response is a personal signature, affirming your faith. When you hear ‘The Body of Christ,’ you reply ‘Amen.’ Be a member of Christ’s body, then, so that your ‘Amen’ may ring true! … Be what you see; receive what you are.”

While the return to public worship may counter the routines which we have settled into during the pandemic, this is also a new moment to embrace again the great gift we have been given.

The night before He died, Jesus gave to the Church His very own Body and Blood — knowing that for all times we desperately need Him — personally present to us in sacramental signs.

Holy Communion is our pledge even now that we are to share an intimate life with Him and with all those who receive Him with prepared open hearts. At the same time, it is also true that we are in communion with those who have gone before us “marked with the sign of life.”

Our loved ones on the other side of life

are never more present to us than when we are sharing in the eternal Eucharistic sacrifice of Mass.

May this Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ be for us a new beginning to proclaim His transforming love made present in our midst.

I am so grateful for you, the local Church of Metuchen, and for your perseverance in the faith throughout this past year.

Now is the time for us to open our hearts anew to the Holy Spirit and beg for Him to fill us with His love, as we receive our Lord in the Eucharist and become His living tabernacles in our world.

Please know of my love and ongoing prayers for you and your families.

I ask that you please pray for me, too.

I eagerly look forward to seeing you at the celebration of the Holy Eucharist soon. God bless you all.

With renewed best wishes, I remain Yours in Christ,

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

Diocese to get four new priests Bishop James F. Checchio is scheduled to ordain four men to the priesthood for the diocese and one to the transitional diaconate at the National Blue Army Shrine, Washington Township, 11 a.m., June 19.

The seminarians who will be ordained to the priesthood are: Rev. Mr. Timothy M. Eck II and Rev. Mr. Gregory J. Zannetti, both IV Theology, Pontifical North American College, Rome; and Rev. Mr. Jun Joseph Querubin Alquiros and Rev. Mr. Ariel Robles Bautista Jr., both IV Theology

at Immaculate Conception Seminary, Seton Hall University, South Orange.

Seminarian Ronal Romario Vega Pastrana, III Theology, Immaculate Conception Seminary, will be ordained to the transitional diaconate.

The event is open to the public and will also be livestreamed. Access to the livestream can be found at the diocese’s website: https://diometuchen.org/ Coverage of the ordinations will be published in the July 22 issue of “The Catholic Spirit.”

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Image Week

Parishioners welcome new pastor at ‘beautiful church’

By Anthony Salamone Correspondent Father Michael Fragoso entered St. Mary of Mount Virgin Church for the first time in 2013 on the evening before his ordination to the priesthood.

“What a beautiful church,” he thought while he was attending a holy hour for vocations, during which Bishop Emeritus Paul G. Bootkoski blessed the new priest’s chalice.

On May 22, Father Fragoso was at St. Mary’s again for another milestone in his priesthood — his installation as second pastor of the Parish of the Visitation, which includes the “beautiful church,” as one of its worship sites.

Bishop James F. Checchio presided

and gave the homily at the Mass of Installation at the New Brunswick church on the date that coincided with the Italian feast of Our Lady of the Mount that is remembered near Naples. The Mass included the Gospel of Luke’s recording of the Visitation — Mary’s trip to see her cousin Elizabeth, who was about to give birth to St. John the Baptist.

“When Mary went to St. Elizabeth, and John the Baptist did somersaults in [Elizabeth’s] womb, he realized that his Lord and Savior was present,” Father Fragoso told the congregation before the recessional.

He said he felt enthused being back at a church he first appreciated for its splendor.

“So how great is it today that Bishop

Last issue's image...

— Frank Wojciechowski photos

Continued on page 9

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

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JUNE 17, 2021

Checchio has named me pastor of Our Lady’s house,” Father Fragoso declared, adding, “Wow!” On Sept. 1, 2020, Father Fragoso became the spiritual shepherd of Parish of the Visitation, which encompasses approximately 2,300 families of several cultures, including Hispanic and Italian. Besides St. Mary of Mount Virgin Church, the parish incorporates the churches of St. John the Baptist — the oldest of the three parishes that is also in New Brunswick — and the Mission of St. Theresa of the Infant Jesus in Edison. The three parishes were merged in 2014 into the Parish of the Visitation.

The new pastor’s installation Mass was delayed primarily because of the coronavirus pandemic. Father Fragoso said it was held in May also to celebrate the Italian feast and so more people would be able to celebrate as New Jersey and the Diocese of Metuchen lifted pandemic restrictions at secular and religious events.

Father Fragoso noted the installation was bittersweet because of the death of seminarian Mr. Ngu Quoc "Peter" Tran, whose summer and holiday assignments included serving at Parish of the Visitation.

Tran was killed in New York City on May 11 by a drunk driver, authorities said.

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Priests from the diocese and visiting clergy are shown at the Mass of Installation at Parish of the Visitation, St. Mary of Mount Virgin worship site.

Newly-installed Parish of the Visitation pastor Father Michael Fragoso, center, prays during the consecration at Mass assisted by Bishop James F. Checchio, who presided at the liturgy, and Father Virgilio T. Tolentino, parochial vicar.

4 PERSPECTIVES

Sacred Heart of Jesus revealed as refuge for sinners Body & Soul

By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD In 17th Century France, the religious climate was clouded by the negative influence of the Jansenists. Jansen, a morbid cleric, taught that the doctrine of double-predestination, which holds that certain people, arbitrarily, are destined to heaven, while others are destined to hell. With the favor of the French aristocracy and even the king, himself, the Jansenists, from their headquarters in Port Royal, depicted God as angry with mankind — and Jesus, his son, as a severe judge who had an insatiable appetite to send people to hell.

At this time, the Jansenists took a literary approach to Scripture, and cited the Book of Revelation in which the human author relates that only 144,000 would be among the elect who would enjoy beatitude in Heaven. Everybody else would go to hell — or, if God was so inclined, maybe purgatory. French piety, then, had a fear of God and an even greater fear of Jesus the Judge. Most people went to confession often, but very few felt wor-

John Eudes in the 17th century renews thy of receiving the Eucharist.

It was during this time that St. devotion not only in the Sacred Heart Margaret Mary, a Daughter of Charity, of Jesus but also that of his Blessed received her revelation of the Sacred Mother. At last, the image of the Sacred Heart becomes the Heart of Jesus. Unlike what she and her We receive a fore- symbol of Jesus most venerated by French sisters had anticipated — this image was not taste of that salvation Catholics. This image one of judgment but of [we are all redeem- hung in Churches, hospitals, orphanages and compassion. Jesus revealed himself not as an able] whenever we simple homes. It was what the French needed angry judge but as the sympathetic shepherd confess our sins and at the time in order to whose heart enveloped receive the sacra- trust once more that the reason for the Incarnain thorns left a canvas mental forgiveness tion and the Redempwide open to a new image of Jesus as the God of our merciful God, tive Act of Christ was love — and that nobody, of Love and Mercy.

When the pontiff through Jesus, at the regardless of what was in the Book of received this image, hands of priests, who cited Revelation, should as recalled by St. Marbecome a prisoner of garet Mary, and after themselves double predestination. the Jesuits, hitherto are sinners.

All of us have been suppressed by pressure predestined to salvafrom the Jansenists, tion. In John 3, we are were reinstated, the told that God so loved Holy Father asked them to spread the Apostolate of the Sacred the world that he sent his only Son, Heart of Jesus through all their mis- not to condemn the world but to save sions, in Europe, in the New World, in it. These words against the image of the Sacred Heart speaks to us about a Asia and Africa.

Meanwhile, back in France, the God who understands the human conJansenists fell out of favor with the dition, with all its vicissitudes in this French nobility, the preaching of St. vale of tears. Jesus, who was like us

in all things but sin, took on our human condition and — despite our propensity toward sin, something known as concupiscence, the message of the merciful and loving heart of Jesus reminds us that we are all redeemable.

That all of us have reason to hope for salvation. We receive a foretaste of that salvation whenever we confess our sins and receive the sacramental forgiveness of our merciful God, through Jesus, at the hands of priests who, themselves, are sinners. It is through this Apostolate of the Sacred Heart, which is still a primary mission of the Society of Jesus, that we can approach the Lord, not with trepidation but with hope and confidence because conversion, on this side of the grave, is never more than three words away: “Ego te absolvo.”

On this magnificent solemnity, let us thank St. Margaret Mary for sharing her revelation with the world. Let us thank St. John Eudes for his fervor in preaching devotion to the Sacred Heart. Let us thank Jesus for revealing himself to us as the refuge of sinners, as one who wants us to seek solace in his love, as the Savior who comes among us, even now, as “meek and humble of heart.”

Father Comandini is managing editor of “The Catholic Spirit”

Love is key to coexisting in peace as people, nations

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Rabbi Leon Klenicki wrapped up an interfaith-dialogue meeting I attended by saying, “We all believe that the Messiah is coming. Whether it’s the first coming or the second coming we can sort out after he arrives.”

The remark got a good-natured chuckle from the Jewish and Christian people in the room.

Of course, Rabbi Klenicki, a leader in interfaith dialogue, knew that differences between the two religions were more complex than his comment expressed, but still, his message was important.

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His point was that in order for Jews and Christians — or any two or more communities — to coexist in peace there must first be good will.

Another way to say that is that in order for any two or more communities to coexist in peace there must first be love.

Amid the information flying past me on the internet recently, I noticed a post by the magazine “Commonweal” with this statement attributed to Dorothy Day: “We must love to the point of folly.”

That is not a soft-soap message from a Hallmark card. That is the unvarnished reality that governs our successes or failures as civilized people, and, for us, as disciples of Jesus.

In a “Peanuts” comic strip published many years ago, Linus Van Pelt tells his sister, Lucy, “Charlie Brown says that brothers and sisters can learn to get along. He says they can get along the way mature adults get along. And he says that adults can get along the same way

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).

that nations get along. At this point, the analogy breaks down!”

What Linus recognized was that, without good will, without love, neither brothers and sisters nor nations can get along.

I have noticed, as perhaps you have, that there is an unusual level of anger in the atmosphere these days, manifested by short tempers, harsh dialogues, and, too often, violence. This atmosphere has permeated our politics, our response to the pandemic, our behavior behind the wheels of our cars, how we deal with conflict, and the way we treat each other in innocuous situations.

I recently watched a conversation in a Facebook room about the circumstances under which the child who grew up to be Babe Ruth was consigned to a reform school and orphanage in Baltimore — an event that took place long before any of the chatters were born.

It wasn’t long before the conversation deteriorated into insults and namecalling, a phenomenon that is replicated many times every day on social media — in fact, a phenomenon that has been enabled by social media whose users don’t worry about the repercussions of what they post.

We feel helpless when we witness incidents like the bloodshed exchanged

by Israelis and Palestinians in a perennial struggle wound up in issues that include history, territorial claims, security, and national and religious identity.

And our feeling is valid; there is nothing we can do to help resolve that struggle.

But we can proactively work to create at the level of everyday life an atmosphere of good will, of love, that, if it grows and flourishes, can help dissipate the impatience, intolerance, even hatred that poisons our environment.

If that sounds naïve, I again invoke Dorothy Day: “We must love to the point of folly.”

That is exactly what Jesus preached and practiced and what he called us to imitate. It is radical, which is why it is elusive and why Dorothy Day called it folly, but it is what it means to be a disciple of Jesus.

If we don’t swallow our pride when we are “right” and the other is “wrong;” if we don’t treat others kindly in spite of our differences with them; if we don’t embrace all sorts of people as sharing the same human dignity that God gave us; if we don’t intentionally do these things, who will?

Deacon Paolino exercises his ministry at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Whitehouse Station

NEW DELHI — Catholic officials in India are working to help citizens get help during the second wave of COVID-19 and the accompanying lockdown. “Our priority now is to save as many lives as possible,” Archbishop Victor Henry Thakur of Raipur told ucanews.com. He said with movements restricted, the archdiocese is reaching out to as many people as possible through neighborhood networks to provide food and medical help, including getting patients admitted to hospitals. Bishop Jose Chittooparambil of Rajkot told ucanews. com: “We are providing medical care to people under trees and makeshift tents, as our priority is to save as many lives as possible.” Suspected patients who need home quarantine are provided accommodation in Church buildings, he said, since most village families live together in small mud houses where quarantine is not possible. Archbishop Thakur said that, during the first wave of the pandemic last year, Catholic activists helped migrant workers with cooked meals, drinking water and other ba-

A woman mourns outside the mortuary of a COVID-19 hospital in New Delhi May 12 after seeing the body of her son, who died after contracting the disease.

— CNS photo/Adnan Abidi, Reuters

sic requirements. “The priority has changed now,” the archbishop said.

Ucanews.com reported medical facilities are overwhelmed with more than 300,000 new infections across India daily.

Compiled from the Catholic News Service

Friar offers ‘small steps’ for ‘big spiritual progress’ BRONX, N.Y. — Smiling behind their bushy beards, the gray-frocked Franciscan Friars of the Renewal served up Easter brunch for the homeless once again this year — a beloved feature of Easter in the South Bronx. This celebration of unshakeable hope, shared with those many deem hopeless, has continued nonstop since 1987, when the Community of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal was founded in the chaotic South Bronx neighborhood.

Throughout the coronavirus pandemic, the friars chose to remain active ministers of mercy. Balancing health guidelines with the critical needs of their neighbors facing poverty and homelessness, the friars chose to quarantine with 40 of their guests in the St. Anthony’s Shelter for Renewal during the worst of the shutdown. Their response continues the great tradition of St. Francis of Assisi, who embraced those afflicted with leprosy, and 17th-century Capuchin Franciscan friars who spent their lives caring for plague victims. The Franciscan Friars of the Renewal emphasize material poverty, contemplative prayer, evangelical preaching and care of the very poor. In a symbolic return to the early Franciscans who wore poor, undyed wool, these clergy-

WORLD & NATION

Coronavirus patients ‘overwhelm’ hospitals in India

5

WORLD & NATION

Brother Thomas welcomes people in need to the Most Blessed Sacrament Friary of the Community of Franciscan Friars of the Renewal’s in Newark in this undated photo.

— CNS photo/courtesy Franciscan Friars of the Renewal)

men changed the color of their habit from the familiar coffee-colored habit of other Franciscan orders to the original 13th-century gray. The community has more than 140 members and friaries in five countries and is considered one of the fastest-growing religious communities in the world.

Ex-pastor pleads guilty to theft of more than $500,000 from parish already begun to strengthen its financial practices, moving to a more regular auditing cycle by an independent auditor; requiring greater involvement by the laity in parish spending reviews; and submitting additional annual reports to the diocese.

In addition, the diocese also established a new parish financial services office to assist the 90 parishes in the diocese with their financial practices and compliance.

As required by canon law, each parish is to have an active finance council, comprised of at least five parishioners who are regularly involved with the parish and who are knowledgeable and experienced in the management of financial affairs. Parish finance councils are expected to meet regularly and submit their meeting minutes to the diocese. They are also required to submit their annual financial report, signed by the pastor, the finance council and the lay trustees.

Bishop Checchio, who said he relies on pastors to make sound financial decisions in consultation with their respective finance councils, also directed the implementation of an anonymous, independent reporting mechanism for concerns by laity, staff, clergy and others surrounding parish finances.

“While this matter was certainly an exception to the financial safeguards in our parishes, the strengthening of our practices is meant to further ensure that the people of our diocese can have con-

fidence in our systems and to know that their generous gifts will be used only for their intended purposes,” said Bishop Checchio.

“I am very aware of the sacrifices the good people of our parishes make in order to make Christ known and loved throughout our local Church and world, especially in these times of financial uncertainty. Their sacrifices and their generosity must not ever be taken for granted, but instead must be used solely to fulfill our mission and restore His greater glory here on earth.”

In a letter to members of St. Matthias Parish, the bishop said it was understandable that the matter weighed heavily as they awaited answers.

“While I am thankful a conclusion has been reached, I also remember, too, the many people who over the years expressed to me their compassion for Father Doug, who served as the pastor for so many years,” the bishop wrote in the letter. “I ask you to please remember him in your prayers as I do, even as I remember your good parish community in my own prayers. You, the people of this parish, are committed servants of the Lord, who have persevered in trusting in the promises of God while building a stronger, more secure future even as we faced this tragic trial. Our diocesan community is united with you in prayer and in our efforts to build a brighter tomorrow.”

JUNE 17, 2021

In 2018, as the audit finally began, the former pastor approached Bishop Checchio to disclose he had mishandled parish funds, saying he had borrowed money from the parish, which he had hoped to repay. At that same time, he also disclosed he was struggling with other personal problems.

Following protocol, the diocese immediately notified the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and, together with the parish, cooperated fully with its investigation, which spanned two years. In addition, immediately after the disclosure, Father Haefner resigned as pastor and his priestly faculties were withdrawn. He underwent evaluation and received treatment as the investigation unfolded.

The diocese was asked to continue with its audit, which eventually confirmed the financial impropriety reported by the pastor. The Prosecutor’s Office then conducted its own forensic audit, which concluded that, in total, $516,984.56 in parish funds was mishandled.

“Gratefully, both audits independently determined that no funds from the parochial school were ever misappropriated,” according to Kearns. “Now that the Prosecutor’s Office has finished its work, the diocese and parish are able to continue working with insurance adjusters to assess restitution.”

Even before the onset of the financial impropriety at the parish, the diocese had

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

The former pastor of St. Matthias Parish, Somerset, has pleaded guilty to one count of second-degree theft for diverting parish funds for his own personal use.

Father Douglas J. Haefner, 68, was criminally charged by the Somerset County Prosecutor’s Office and entered his plea before the Judge Peter J. Tober, sitting in Somerville, May 19. He remains out on his own recognizance until his scheduled sentencing Aug. 4.

“This is a sad and disturbing case for all involved, particularly for the people of the parish community who placed their trust and confidence in Father Haefner,” said Anthony P. Kearns III, spokesperson and chancellor of the diocese. “We are grateful that this matter has come to its long-awaited conclusion.”

After Bishop James F. Checchio’s arrival in 2016 as shepherd of the diocese, the parish’s financial struggles were noted and an audit of the parish was attempted, Kearns said.

Because of serious health problems and needing additional time to prepare, each time the audit was scheduled to take place, Father Haefner requested to reschedule. The diocese accommodated the requests and Bishop Checchio even visited the former pastor when he was hospitalized. The diocese continued to collect and review the parish’s annual financial statements and reports submitted by the parish’s pastor, staff and lay trustees.

6 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JUNE 17, 2021

Bishop blesses refurbished Mary, Mother of Life Within statue

By Anthony Salamone Correspondent WASHINGTON TWP. – The remembrance of the first apparition of Mary to three Portuguese children 104 years ago brought with it a theme of rededication to the faith for worshipers who visited last month at the National Blue Army Shrine in Warren County.

Bishop James F. Checchio led the congregation, who came from New Jersey, New York, Pennsylvania and beyond during a Mass on May 13 at the shrine’s main sanctuary. After Mass, the bishop rode by golf cart to consecrate the newly refurbished statue to the Blessed Virgin on the shrine grounds.

“Bless this image,” Bishop Checchio said at the statue’s base, flanked

by Father Gilbert Starcher, parochial vicar, St. Philip and St. James Parish, Phillipsburg, and David Carollo, the Shrine’s executive director. “May all who visit this place with devotion be reminded to strive to live lives filled with love and humility.”

After reciting several prayers, Bishop Checchio sprinkled the statue with holy water, as well as sprinkling the small group of people who had gathered for the rededication, including Lauren White of Hackettstown and her children, ranging in ages from 3 to 13.

“It’s beautiful,” said White, noting the statue and Shrine is a way for Catholics to live out their faith. “We try to be close to Mary and follow what she wishes, what’s she’s asked for in her message at Fatima.”

Before the bishop’s appearance at the statue, Martina Shewack placed a fresh bouquet of flowers at the base.

“I come here ever year,” said Shewack, of Milford, Pa. “I was born Sept. 13, so I am technically a Fatima baby. I can’t explain the way I feel when I come here. It brings you to tears. There’s something in the air that just moves you. You feel like you’re overtaken by joy.”

Known as “Mary, Mother of the Life Within,” the 8-foot, nearly solid white statue was first consecrated Oct. 2, 2005, by Bishop Emeritus Paul G. Bootkoski. Carollo said the fiberglass statue was in need of repairs.

“It had been damaged a lot by the elements,” he said. “We decided to refurbish it, and we thought it would be a good day to dedicate it [May 13], because the bishop is here.”

The Shrine commissioned fine artist Michael V. Wilson of Hanceville, Ala., who chronicled the statue’s refurbishment on his social media page: facebook.com/MichaelV.WilsonFineArt. He said he retrieved the statue in late March and delivered it to the Shrine on May 6.

Artist Joe DeVito sculpted the white statue, which sits in a grotto, depicting Mary cradling the infant Jesus and a dove symbolizing the Holy Spirit. A cross halo in gold above Jesus’ head rests on Mary’s heart, with a rosary showing on her left side.

In his homily, the bishop used the theme of rededication in encouraging the estimated crowd of 2,000 to stay true to Mary, her son, God and the faith -- to practice “discipleship.”

“If we want to be close to Jesus,” the bishop said, “then we must go beyond emotional attachments or communal associations and commit our lives in active fidelity to the will of God, as revealed in the life, ministries and teachings of Jesus Christ.”

Mary, the bishop said, is God’s gift to us, and he mentioned the statue as a way to “rededicate ourselves to be sons and daughter of our Blessed Mother.”

“So, we pray today that our Mother Mary would light the way for each one of us so we can easily see the path of God for us, for our families, for our church, and boldly follow it as faithful sons and daughters of her.”

The Blue Army Shrine and its companion, World Apostolate of Fatima, works to encourage prayer and devotion to the Rosary and to honor the requests that Mary made through her apparitions in Fatima, Portugal, during 1917, as witnessed by three children.

Bishop Checchio presided at the Mass, celebrating the Eucharist on an altar with a cloth depicting Mary’s appearance to Lucia dos Santos and her cousins, Francisco and Jacinto Marto, at Fatima, a village about 75 miles north of the capital, Lisbon.

The bishop thanked the priests who attended the day’s events, which included confessions, rosary procession and guest speaker Franciscan Friar of the Renewal Father Luke Mary Fletcher. He also singled out Father Ronan Murphy, who recently became the Blue Army Shrine chaplain; his ordination to the priesthood took place May 13, 2000.

“I was at his ordination, so it’s nice to be able to concelebrate the Mass with him today,” Bishop Checchio told the faithful.

The Blue Army Shrine, which is situated off Interstate 78 between Asbury and Washington, billed May 13 as a “Mary-thon of Prayer” to honor Our Lady of Fatima.

The Shrine started the Mary-thon in May 2020 as a totally virtual event due to the coronavirus pandemic.

“Bishop Checchio did a video greeting,” Carollo said. “EWTN covered the day. As the season progressed and people started coming, we continued this theme, having the day both in person as well as virtual.”

Above, after blessing the Mary, Mother of Life Within statue at the National Blue Army Shrine, Bishop James F. Checchio poses with the White family from Hackettstown.

From left: Isabella, 13, Joseph, 6, Michael, 8, Mary, 3, and mother, Lauren. Another son, John, 11, was an altar server at the Mass. Right, Bishop Checchio, who presided at the Mass, raises the chalice during the consecration.

— Ed Koskey Jr. photos

Above, Bishop James F. Checchio (center) prays with Father Gilbert Z. Starcher (left), parochial vicar, St. Philip and St. Jame Parish, Phillipsburg, and David Carollo, executive director, Blue Army Shrine, as he rededicates the Mary, Mother of Life Within statue, which was created for the shrine in 2005 and has been restored. Left, a statue of the Blessed Mother is carried in a rosary procession.

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7 OUR DIOCESE

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8 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JUNE 17, 2021

New pastor of St. Joseph Parish fosters spiritualty of monks for faithful rigan. He attended St. Cecelia School, Iselin, and Saint Joseph High School, The Pentecost Novena is a very power- Metuchen. He graduated from Fordful and popular form of Roman Catho- ham University, Bronx, N.Y., with lic devotion. The prayers that are said a bachelor’s degree in quantitative on each of the nine days culminating methods and completed his formation with the great Solemnity of Pentecost training at The Catholic University of took on a new level of meaning this America, Washington, D.C., with a year for St. Joseph Parish, Bound Master of Divinity degree.

Msgr. Kerrigan was ordained to Brook. Those days also became a time of preparation for the installation of the priesthood by Bishop Roberto Gonits new pastor, Msgr. Joseph J. Kerri- zalez at St. Paul the Apostle Church, New York City, May gan, by Bishop James 12, 1990. As a new F. Checchio May 23.

Msgr. (Joseph J.) priest, Msgr. Kerrigan In his homily, Bishop Checchio not- Kerrigan was ordained served as parochial vicar at five parishes ed the significance of to the priesthood in Memphis, Tenn., the installation occurby Bishop Robert before coming to the ring on the Solemnity of Metuchen, of Pentecost, the comGonzalez at St. Paul Diocese where he served as memoration of the day that the Holy Spirit the Apostle Church, parochial vicar at St. Bartholomew Parfilled the Church. He said the main task of New York City, May 12, ish, East Brunswick, Msgr. Kerrigan as a 1990. As a new priest, and pastor at Sacred Heart Parish, New new pastor was, “to set the conditions so Msgr. Kerrigan served Brunswick. In 2014, Heart Parish that the Holy Spirit as parochial vicar at Sacred was merged with two may come anew into other parishes in New the lives of the parishfive parishes in Brunswick parishes to ioners of St. Joseph.”

Memphis, Tenn., form Holy Family ParAfter announcing ish. At St. Joseph, as that he had appointed before coming at Holy Family, Msgr.

Msgr. Kerrigan as to the Diocese Kerrigan’s fluency in their new pastor, Spanish will be vital.

Bishop Checchio forof Metuchen.

In addition to his mally introduced him parish assignments, to four vital groups that will assist him. The clergy and Msgr. Kerrigan has served as diocesan staff of St. Joseph, the members of the director of Catholic Relief Services finance committee and pastoral coun- and was a consultant to the United cil along with the two civil trustees of States Catholic Conference of Bishops the parish promised to cooperate with for the Campaign for Human Developthe pastor in their various roles and re- ment.

Msgr. Kerrigan noted that from sponsibilities. Msgr. Kerrigan pledged to collaborate with them in the spiri- St. Joseph’s founding almost 150 tual, pastoral, social and temporal years ago, the parish has always been activities of St. Joseph Parish. He then infused with a Benedictine spiritualled the congregation in proclaiming ity introduced by the monks who had the Nicene Creed, making his oath of initially served the Catholics in the Bound Brook area. Because of this fidelity.

In his comments at the end of influence he believes it has never been the Mass, Msgr. Kerrigan offered a very parochial in its outlook. Rather “global thanks” for everyone who he said he feels it has a more global stepped up over the past nine days to perspective and so he had always bring about the fulfillment of the Pen- planned that the In-Pew portion of the tecost Novena with his installation. He 2021 Bishop’s Annual Appeal would also expressed his gratitude to Father be conducted on Pentecost Sunday, John R. Pringle, his predecessor at St. and with Bishop Checchio present it Joseph, for his “outstanding and wise seemed even more appropriate. To pastoral leadership that allowed such a speak about the Appeal and encourage parishioner participation he introsmooth and seamless transition.”

Msgr. Kerrigan was born in duced Flavio Rojas, a member of St. Plainfield to Cecilia and Joseph Ker- Joseph Parish and a seminarian for the

By Deacon Patrick Cline

www.catholicspirit.com

Above, in a screenshot, members of St. Joseph Parish’s clergy, staff, committees and councils are introduced to Msgr. Joseph J. Kerrigan by Bishop James. F. Checchio during the Rite of Installation at St. Joseph Church.

Right, Bishop Checchio poses with Msgr. Kerrigan after he was installed as he 19th pastor of St. Joseph Parish, which was first established as a mission in 1866. The parish has been led by three administrators.

— Ana Valencia photo

diocese who is studying at St. Andrew College Seminary at Seton Hall University, South Orange.

Rojas explained that the seminary education of the men preparing for ordination to the priesthood in this diocese relies upon the generous support of the parishioners. He gave examples of the costs of this education, tuition, room and board as well as other expenses.

Rojas noted that this aid is especially helpful for the international seminarians who do not have family in this country to assist them. The Bishop’s Annual Appeal also helps support seminarians during their summer assignments to the various parishes in the diocese. Rojas ended his presentation by thanking the parishioners and asking for their prayers for all the seminarians, Bishop Checchio, and Msgr. Kerrigan. And, he assured the parishioners of his prayers for all of them.

Reflecting on his own recent period of formation and discernment at the Trappist Monastery of Mepkin Abbey, Moncks Corner, S.C., Msgr.

Kerrigan echoed Rojas on the need to financially support the formation of seminarians for the diocese. It was during his time with the Trappists that Msgr. Kerrigan said he again was able to fully appreciate the value of contemplative prayer and the benefits it

offers. To encourage this practice in the diocese, he has implemented an opportunity for St. Joseph’s parishioners and others to experience contemplative prayer every week, Monday through Friday at 6 p.m. in the church.

Msgr. Kerrigan said his period of discernment with the Trappists also allowed him to recognize Bishop Checchio as the example of a bishop that any seminarian or any person in discernment needs to guide their decisions. He publicly thanked the bishop saying, “his wide experience and deep guidance was responsible for bringing me here today.”

At the conclusion of the Mass, Bishop Checchio requested prayers and support for all the seminarians, vocations to the priesthood, Msgr.

Kerrigan and himself.

Deacon Cline exercises his ministry at St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, Bridgewater

he noted his councils and the three orders of nuns who are in residence.

“I could not ask for a better staff,” he stated.

Father Fragoso, 65, said he was initially unsure about moving when the bishop asked him to transfer.

“Afterward, I said, ‘Why did I say yes? I’m comfortable here [St. James].

“Maybe I’m not meant to be comfortable,” he said. “Maybe I’m meant to be challenged.”

If anyone knows about transitions, change and challenges, it is Father Fragoso, who emigrated from Cuba to the United States as a child while his family were political refugees from communist rule following the Cuban Revolution in the late 1950s and early 1960s. The family settled in Staten Island, N.Y., and then moved to New Jersey.

Before becoming a priest, Father Fragoso spent more than two decades as a pediatrician in central New Jersey, and he was married. But his wife, Carmen, died in 2008, and it led him to discern his vocation to serve God – to enter another role as a healer, but that of mind and spirit.

On May 22, he stood before fellow clergy, parishioners, and his son, Michael A. Fragoso, to publicly announce his intent as spiritual leader of Visitation parish.

“I’m humbled and grateful for this honor, and the opportunity to further

OUR DIOCESE

Continued from page 3 “That was terrible,” Father Fragoso said. “I think the bishop said, ‘We need something good this week,’” in deciding to offer the installation Mass.

In his homily, Bishop Checchio said Father Fragoso chose the Marian feast day on which to celebrate his installation as pastor not because it was nice or a coincidence.

“Father is a believer who trusts in our Mother’s protection and guidance for us,” the bishop said, “who strives to emulate her example and faith, too, in his own life, and I know you all do, too.

“So, we pray today that as your new pastor, he may always be in this community of the Parish of the Visitation to have such faith as our Blessed Mother, to choose to always believe that God will always, always, always be faithful.”

In a telephone interview with “The Catholic Spirit,” Father Fragoso, who previously was pastor at St. James the Less Parish, Jamesburg, and before that parochial vicar at St. Philip and St. James Parish, Phillipsburg, said he was unaware of the name of the consolidated parish, though he was familiar with St. Mary of Mount Virgin.

Father Fragoso said he is blessed with two parochial vicars, Father Virgilio T. Tolentino and Father Edmund A. Luciano III. And any issues facing the young parish with longstanding histories melted easily when

9

Father Michael Fragoso ‘humbled, grateful’ for honor to serve parishioners

Above, Bishop James F. Checchio leads the Rite of Installation of Father Michael Fragoso as pastor of Parish of the Visitation at St. Mary of Mount Virgin worship site.

— Frank Wojciechowski photos build up this parish standing on the broad shoulders of my predecessors,” Father Fragoso said at Mass.

Though Father Fragoso is Visitation parish’s second pastor, another priest, Father Benny Chittilappilly, served as administrator, and Father Jimson Varghese served as the unified parish’s first pastor.

Both clergy belong to the Vocationist order, while Father Fragoso is a diocesan priest.

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10 OUR DIOCESE

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SOMERSET — Often seen lighting candles on the altar or distributing patens to extraordinary ministers of holy Communion, just as he did at the Vigil Mass at St. Matthias Church June 5, Tom Fullerton is a familiar face at St. Matthias Parish, having once served as the sacristan there.

Though he has been coming to the church regularly since the public celebration of the Mass was restored last June on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, the 82-year-old said he was glad to see more people coming back to Mass.

“When somebody sees faith in another person, it causes them to want to be a part of it, too,” said Fullerton.

“We are all instruments of God,” he added.

This year, on the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood Christ celebrated June 5-6, Fullerton most likely saw many more of the faithful at St. Matthias. In a May 20 statement, the bishops of New Jersey announced that on the Solemnity, the general obligation to attend Mass was reinstated.

In lifting the dispensation, the bishops said that “due to the observance of public safety protocols and the increase in the availability of vaccines, we have begun a return to some sense of normalcy in various sectors of our society.”

While welcoming the Christian faithful

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Left, Msgr. Joseph M. Curry, parochial vicar, St. Matthias Parish, Somerset, gives the homily for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ at the Vigil Mass June 5 at St. Matthias Church. Msgr. Curry encouraged parishioners to remember that “we become what we receive.” Right, Tom Fullerton, a member of St. Matthias Parish and an extraordinary minister of holy Communion, distributes Communion at the 5 p.m. Vigil Mass June 5, when the general obligation to attend Mass was reinstated statewide by the Catholic Bishops of New Jersey.

-- Tara Smith photo that “we all need to be reminded of the great gift of hope that the Body of Christ is for us and the great refuge it can be when we are challenged or struggling.”

Acknowledging those same challenges, Fullerton said that while he understands the struggles, particularly with so many still facing the effects caused by the pandemicridden year, he also hopes that many more people will continue to return to Mass, especially the younger generations.

As he finished cleaning up in the sacristy after the June 5 Mass and then stood facing the empty pews, where ushers and

volunteers were methodically sanitizing and wiping in preparation for the June 6 Masses, Fullerton said he knows there can be a hesitancy to return to some sense of normalcy.

Yet, in his own life, he added, his strong faith has led him to place his trust in God – a feeling he hopes will be experienced and embraced by others.

“We all go through hard times, but in all the hard times I have gone through, I have always thanked God,” said Fullerton.

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as they return to participate in the Sunday Eucharist, the source and summit of the Catholic faith, the bishops noted that the obligation does not apply to individuals who are ill; who have reason to believe that they were recently exposed to the coronavirus or another serious or contagious illness; who are confined to their home, a hospital, or nursing facility; or have serious underlying health conditions. They advised that one should consult their local pastor if questions arise about the obligation to attend Mass.

Recognizing that some people are still unable to return to Mass because of illness or a host of other serious reasons, St. Matthias Parish — like many other parishes in the diocese — will continue offering a livestreamed Mass, calling it “a great source of evangelization during these difficult times.”

The parish will also continue with the use of safety protocols, assured Msgr. Joseph M. Curry, parochial vicar, who celebrated the 5 p.m. Mass June 5. His announcement about the continued safety protocols was augmented by a one-page flyer, outlining a summary timeline of the gradual return to normalcy. Accompanying the parish bulletin, the flyer was available as a hardcopy and was also made available on the parish website.

Msgr. Curry addressed the “uncharted waters of life” after COVID-19, aptly writing in the parish bulletin for the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ

OUR DIOCESE

By Tara Smith

11

Faithful in diocese return to Mass: ‘We are all instruments of God’

12 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JUNE 17, 2021

Faithful encouraged to seek renewal in Holy Spirit at Pentecost Vigil

By Christina Leslie Correspondent METUCHEN — Has the Holy Spirit miraculously penetrated our lives, or merely touched our surface to remain exterior to our hearts, asked Bishop James F. Checchio in his homily at the May 22 Pentecost Vigil Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. “We must open up ourselves to the power and promptings of the Holy Spirit,” he declared. “This is why we are having this vigil of prayer for renewal this evening.”

Part of the diocesan “Lighting Hearts on Fire” initiative, the annual diocesan Pentecost Vigil offered attendees, both in person and via livestream, a diverse evening beginning with Mass. Bishop Checchio also presided at the liturgy, which was followed by Eucharistic adoration, the sacrament of reconciliation, music, praise, healing ministry, witness and catechetical talks. Numerous local clergy, religious and lay presenters served to facilitate the Holy Spirit, said the bishop, “to penetrate and change us, making us over in our Lord’s image, filling us with virtue and grace, equipping us for living the Christian life we are called to each day.”

In his discourse on the Holy Spirit, Father Timothy A. Christy, diocesan vicar general and moderator of the curia, reminded the congregation that Pentecost comes yearly because the faithful need a fresh awakening.

Pointing to the Cathedral’s stainedglass window depicting the Annunciation, he said, “It is an awesome image of Our Lady’s humility and willingness to be overshadowed by the Holy Spirit. The Holy Spirit gives affirmation.”

Noting discernment is a gift of the Holy Spirit, he challenged the faithful to bring all their opportunities and challenges to the Holy Spirit and ask for help sort it out.

“We are here praying, ‘Come, Holy Spirit,’, but it has consequences,” he warned. “We are giving over a kind of control. When we say, ‘Come, Holy Spirit,’ it’s giving God a blank check.”

God will renew the face of the earth one heart at a time, Father Christy continued, and those gathered there sought the courage to be set free and be inebriated with the Holy Spirit.

“He wants his Church to live in holiness,” he stated. “We have great hope because God isn’t finished. He has a lot of work to do.”

Megan Vantslot, director, diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries, discussed how in order to be a disciple, one must become wet clay and allow God’s love to transform our lives.

Quoting the prophet Isaiah, Vantslot said, “‘You are our Father, we are the clay and you the potter, we are all the work of your hands (64:7).’

“To live discipleship, we have to get this right, know the love the Father communicates to each of us.”

Clay, she continued, is humble, dirty, cracked, but when we only find fault in ourselves, “The skillful artist who sees all of it, can douse the dry clay with his water of love. God is the good Father and knows exactly what he is doing — he gave me the exact raw materials to be who I was meant to be.”

“We cannot become new creations without actively participating in our remaking by the Holy Spirit… Without being watered continually by God’s love, we become stagnant,” Vantslot said. “Bring this clay and openness of heart to God’s love. Go to prayer with the recognition of who we are and who God is. Go with perseverance.”

Sister of Jesus Our Hope Ellen Craft shared her insights on how Mary and the Holy Spirit are inextricably linked.

“By the Holy Spirit’s power and her faith, her virginity became uniquely fruitful and all because of the Father’s love,” Sister Ellen said. Quoting from the “Catechism of the Catholic Church,” she continued, “For the first time in the plan of salvation, the Father found a dwelling place where the Son and his Spirit would dwell among men.”

Scripture, the Doctors of the Church and St. John Paul II issued many writings about the intersection of Mary’s Annunciation and the birth of the Church at Pentecost, she added.

Key was Mary’s acceptance of the gift of the Holy Spirit, which had overshadowed her at the Annunciation.

“It was a unique correspondence of the moment of the Incarnation of the Word and the moment of the birth of the Church,” Sister Ellen concluded. “We can join Mary in her surrender to the Holy Spirit by praying more intentionally and intensely at Mass and with her surrendering to the power, to the touch, to the fire of the Holy Spirit.”

Father Edmund A. Luciano III, parochial vicar, Parish of the Visitation, New Brunswick, called the priesthood and the Eucharist “absolutely inseparable.”

“We desire more and more intimacy with a God who loves us and wants to bring that experience to everyone. It is contagious,” he added.

“The sacrifice of the Mass is so beautiful it beckons the one being called to leave everything else behind and offer his own life to the service of the one who calls.”

The Latin word for “priest” is pontifex, or bridgebuilder between the

people and God, Father Luciano said.

“The priest has to live the Eucharist.

It can’t be actions that are done in the vacuum of marble walls. We must be men pouring ourselves out as Christ poured out himself to the Father.

“The priesthood and the Eucharist are so tied together because they perform the very same action — Christ is made present. The priest makes the Eu-

charist possible,” he said, then told the congregation, “We need you and are for you. Pray for us.”

Other catechetical talks and witness statements examined the power of the Spirit in family life, the Father’s love, changing one’s lifestyle and the recitation of a Scriptural rosary. The vigil concluded at midnight with the Office of Readings and a benediction.

Above, Allan Caballero (left), director, diocesan Office of Evangelization and Office of Hispanic Ministry, and Megan Vantslot, director, diocese Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, speak to the faithful at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi at the Pentecost Vigil. Right, Father Timothy A. Christy, Cathedral rector, diocesan vicar general and moderator of the curia, speaks about the Holy Spirit.

Above left, Bishop James F. Checchio, who presided at the Mass, raises the host during the consecration. Above and left, Brother Jude Lasota, a member of the Brotherhood of Hope, and Jesus Our Hope Sisters Ellen Kraft and Christine Quense, pray over attendees.

— John Batkowski photos

13

GRADUATION

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

JUNE 17, 2021

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

GRADUATION

14

Above, seniors at Immaculata High School move the tassle from the left side of their caps to the right to confirm they are graduates at commencement exercises. Above right, graduates celebrate. Right, Msgr.

Joseph G. Celano, pastor, Church of the Immaculate Conception, bestows a diploma.

— Ed Koskey Jr. photos

Immaculata High School Awards

Valedictorian Olivia Lyn Izzo Highest General Average (Gift of the Spartan Parent Club): Olivia Lyn Izzo, Sean William Castellano Excellence in Theology (Gift of the Fraternal Order of Eagles 2137 and Knights of Columbus, Somerville Council 1432): Michaela Riley Hanlon Excellence in Biology (Gift of the IHS Administration): Olivia Lyn Izzo Excellence in Business Education (Gift of the Vossen Family): Julia Anne Holland Excellence in Chemistry (Gift of the IHS Ad-

Salutatorian Sean William Castellano ministration): Vy Tran Khanh Nguyen Excellence in Computer Science (Gift of the Vossen Family): Daniel Bryce Colitti Excellence in English (Gift of the Fraternal Order of Eagles 2137): Olivia Lyn Izzo Excellence in French (Gift of the Kline Family): Sophia Mary Kosty Excellence in Journalism (Gift of the Journalism Program): Ava Lynn Tavaglione Excellence in Mathematics (Gift of the IHS Administration): Vy Tran Khanh Nguyen Continued on next page

JUNE 17, 2021

wherever we go.”

Izzo said she realized that all the times she held herself back from trying to make a difference, it was because she “afraid of the unknown and of being alone in what I was choosing to stand for.”

“Our generation has challenges to overcome that will test us in ways we never imagined,” she continued. “Every one of us has the capacity to lessen the burden of others and bring light into situations surrounded by darkness. Immaculata is now a part of our pasts, but we will use the memories and lessons it has given us to write our futures.”

Head of school Joan M. Silo, who is completing her third year at the institution, announced the 2021 class received awards and scholarships that totaled more than $17 million and that100 percent of the graduating class gained college acceptance.

Castellano’s mother Lois Duffy Castellano, a member of the IHS Class of 1988, said, “This is so special for me because he wanted to come to school here. Over the years, I brought him to alumni events and he fell in love with the school.”

She said he loved that the school is such a close-knit family. “It’s fun for me to see some of the teachers who are still here and people who I graduated with. I couldn’t ask for anything more.”

Guy Hoyt, Class of 1979, was excited to watch his daughter, Sheridan, graduate. “This year was very challenging and very emotional,” he said. “She worried that she wouldn’t be able to have the senior experience that she hoped for, but she made the best of it and everything worked out. She did well. I am very proud of her, and I expect great things from her.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

SOMERVILLE — Addressing Immaculata High School’s 84 graduates seated before him, Msgr. Joseph G. Celano, declared, “I want you to be blessed in your life. We congratulate you tonight for all you have accomplished and all that is yet to be. So, graduating class of 2021, you who have navigated such a challenging year, we salute you.”

During his remarks at Immaculata’s 55th commencement exercises at Immaculate Conception Church June 4.

Msgr. Celano also referred to the homily he gave the night before at the high school’s Baccalaureate Mass. He again quoted Pope Benedict’s XVI’s address to the youth of the world saying, “The world offers you comfort, but God has not created you for comfort. He has created you for greatness.” He challenged the graduates not to define themselves in limiting ways. “I hope and pray that you will always look to the days ahead with hope and never define yourself in a way that is limiting or does not give witness to who you truly are, a son or a daughter of the living God.” Msgr. Celano, pastor, Church of the Immaculate Conception, then called upon the Lord to, “Look upon this graduating class and pour out your blessing upon them and with great vision lead them in the days and the years ahead.”

He asked the Lord to help them become men and women of character, conviction, faith and service to the world.

Salutatorian Sean Castellano, who will attend Rutgers University, New Brunswick, and study environmental engineering, told his fellow graduates, “It only takes a spark to ignite a blaze of passion to learn more.”

He reminded his classmates that being a Spartan means being a part of a family that will always be here [IHS] for you, being a person who is willing to lend a hand to those less fortunate and hanging on to the faith instilled in them at Immaculata.

“I would like to conclude with a saying I saw on the back of a T-shirt,” Castellano said. “Dreams don’t work unless you do.”

“We have been through more than any class before us, and we’ve had to work hard to overcome many challenges.

We are and always will be Spartan strong and we will make our dreams come true,” he said.

Valedictorian Olivia Izzo plans to attend the University of Connecticut (Storrs) and major in biological science.

In her speech she said, “While our high school experience has been different from any other, it did not prevent us from creating memories and learning lessons that will last us our whole lives.

While we leave a piece of ourselves with Immaculata, we also take IHS with us

GRADUATION

By Karen Corpora Correspondent

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IHS grads urged to be people of character, conviction, faith, service

GRADUATION

16

Immaculata High School Awards Continued from previous page

Congratulations Class of 2021 Honors and Achievements:

100% College acceptance including these top universities: Auburn, Boston College, Lehigh, Loyola, NJIT, Penn State, Rensselaer, Rutgers, St. Joseph’s, Texas Christian, UC-San Diego, Villanova, Xavier

97% participated in at least one school-related team, activity, or club during their 4 years

82% earned academic or athletic scholarships— $247,826 average scholarship award per student

Aim Higher Here Become a Spartan this Summer!

Applications for Fall 2021 enrollment are still being accepted. If you are a student in the Class of 2025, 2024, or 2023, contact us to learn how you can become a Spartan this summer!

Begin the Admissions Process Here and be kept up-to-date on all our Admissions events:

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

www.immaculatahighschool.org/BeginHere 240 Mountain Avenue • Somerville, NJ 08876 • (908) 722-0200 www.immaculatahighschool.org

Excellence in Physics (Gift of the IHS Administration): Phillip Enad Excellence in Social Studies (Gift of the Fraternal Order of Eagles 2137 and Knights of Columbus, Somerville Council 1432): Parker Jude Doran Excellence in Spanish (Gift of the IHS Administration): Angela Kapiolani Matias “Semper Fidelis” Award (Gift of the Marine Corps/Music Department): John Vincent Cavanagh Connie Tarentino Memorial Award (Gift of the Tarentino Family): Elliott Reese Gargano Excellence in the Visual Arts (Gift of the Visual Arts Department): Michaela Riley Hanlon Excellence in Digital Arts (Gift of the Art Club): Peter Anthony DiProspero Excellence in Dramatics (Gift of the Drama Department): Olivia Lyn Izzo, John Vincent Cavanagh Excellence in Music and Service to Church and Community (Gift of the Music Department): Jack T. Slomka The Marie E. Laggini Memorial Award for Vocal Excellence (Gift of the Friends of the late Marie Laggini): Phillip Enad Music Department Award (Gift of Mary Francis Gertsen): Jean Carlo Picado-McLeoud President of Tri-M Music Honor Society (Gift of the Sister Dolores Margaret Scholarship Fund): Parker Jude Doran The Sister Dolores Margaret Scholarship for Excellence (Gift of the Sister Dolores Margaret Scholarship Fund): Joseph Nathaniel Alexis The Edward “Ted” Gaughan Memorial Award (Gift of the Gaughan Family): Andrew Francis Kurtz The John Philip Sousa Award (Gift of the Music Department): Olivia Lyn Izzo, Joseph Nathaniel Alexis, John Vincent Cavanagh The Louis Armstrong Award (Gift of the Music Department): Matthew Bertram Parry The Susan Bruns ’75 Award (Gift of the Music Department): Casey Susan Bonham, Katherine Linda Shubiak Campus Ministry Award (Gift of the Campus Ministry Department): John Vincent Cavanagh, Kayla Quinn McGovern Christian Spirit Award (Gift of the Spartan Parent Club): Jean Carlo Picado-McLeoud Law Enforcement Award (Gift of the Somerville Police Benevolent Association, Local 147): Aubrey Elizabeth Reno President of National Honor Society (Gift of the National Honor Society): Olivia Lyn Izzo National Honor Society Tutorial Services (Gift of the National Honor Society): Michelle Chinchilla, Maria-Victoria Suarez President of French Honor Society (Gift of the French Honor Society): Casey Susan Bonham President of Spanish Honor Society (Gift of the Spanish Honor Society): Angela Kapiolani Matias President of Senior Class (Gift of the Student Council): Dylan Hayes President of Student Council (Gift of Monsignor Joseph G. Celano): Adrian Reece Zeni Service to Magnificat Yearbook (Gift of the

Journalism Program): Aubrey Elizabeth Reno U.S. Army Green Beret Staff Sergeant Andrew T. Lobosco ’98 Scholarship Award (Gift of James Boyda ’12): Joseph Nathaniel Alexis Branchburg Rotary Scholarship (Gift of Branchburg Rotary): Ryan Julius Heerema, Brendan Michael McNulty Marine Corps Academic Award (Gift of the Marine Corps/IHS Administration): Liam Christopher English Marine Corps Athletic Award (Gift of the Marine Corps/IHS Administration): Alexander Michael Duffey Spartan Alumni Award (Gift of the Spartan Alumni Association): Alexandria Rose Zayle, Liam Christopher English The Advancement Office Spartan Ambassador Award (Gift of Rich Rau ’89): Sean William Castellano The Angelo Mystrena Memorial Award (Gift of Aaron ‘89 and Michele Kowalski): Sophia Mary Kosty The Esther and Joseph Cusick Memorial Award (Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Cusick ’68): Alexa Jeanmarie Medley The Goitz Family Award (Gift of the Goitz Family): Casey Susan Bonham The J. Brandon (Mackie) Maxwell Award for Merit (Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Robert Ribbans): Christy Danielle Kosinski The John Collins ’76 Memorial Award (Gift of the Knights of Columbus, Somerville Council 1432 and AOH Somerset County, Saint Patrick Division 1): Christopher John Markovich The Kenneth G. Herrmann ’81 Memorial Award (Gift of the Class of 1981): Sophia Mary Kosty The Kristin A. Culley ’96 Memorial Award (Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Joseph Culley): Caroline E. Torrone The Michael Vecchio Memorial Award (Gift of Irene Vecchio): Andrew Jacob Currie, Brendan Michael McNulty The Richard D. Tyler Memorial Award (Gift of Mrs. Mary Jane Tyler): Alec Robert Bongiovanni The Robert Briski Citizenship Award (Gift of Mrs. Carol Briski): Angelica Joy Dequina The Rotary Club of Somerville and Bridgewater Paul F. Davis Memorial Scholarship (Gift of the Rotary Club of Somerville and Bridgewater): Aubrey Elizabeth Reno The Rotary Club of Somerville and Bridgewater Scholarship (Gift of the Rotary Club of Somerville and Bridgewater): John Vincent Cavanagh The Sheila M. White Memorial Award (Gift of the Office of School Counseling): Philip Stamatis Arkoulakis, Brooke C. Stauffenberg The Susan Kelly ’80 Memorial Award (Gift of the Unitas Caritas Foundation and the Susan Kelly ’80 Golf Outing Benefactors): Rosina Maria Rech The Thomas M. Jubak Jr. ’80 Memorial Award (Gift of Mr. and Mrs. Thomas Jubak Sr.): Julia Anne Holland The Monsignor Eugene B. Kelly Award (Gift of the IHS Administration): John Vincent Cavanagh

men again I challenge you my classmates not to be afraid of creating your own path and getting involved. Strive for grace not perfection. Don’t be afraid to ask for help and don’t be afraid to be yourself,” DSilva added.

Barbara Stevens, assistant superintendent, diocesan Office of Schools, represented Bishop James F. Checchio at the graduation ceremony. She congratulated the class and offered the benediction.

“May God, who began his good work in you, carry you through to completion, enabling you to use your talents to the fullest,” she said. “May God give you the grace to make wise choices and to be faithful to your commitments always confident in the support of those who love you, and may your integrity be a gift to the world.”

The night before, Bishop Emeritus Paul G. Bootkoski presided at the baccalaureate Mass in the chapel. In his homily, he encouraged the Mounties to develop their gifts and talents to share with the world, to be open to the newness of life and to change, and to be true to who they are. He added that, while the past year was a difficult one, they weathered the challenges successfully and he is sure they have made lifelong friends during their four years at the Mount.

Bishop Bootkoski also encouraged them to bring their faith into the world

as they forge ahead in life.

Mercy Sister Deirdre Mullan, guest speaker at the Mass, invited the students to use a “Mercy GPS” app that would help them in their future journeys — to to pay attention to their friendships, not to take their relationships for granted, and to talk to one another outside of texting or social media. She urged them to always move forward and to use kindness and compassion as young women and as global citizens.

Six MSMA students were honored as Legacy graduates.

Legacy parent Kristene Singer Halstead, who graduated in 1985, said, “I appreciate the strong religious education and background taught here. Being with all girls gave Kate a chance to be herself.”

Halstead added that her daughter’s love for MSMA has remained strong over the years and when asked if she encouraged her daughter to attend the Mount she said, “She knew from the time that she was two years old that she was going to Mount Saint Mary’s.”

Ava DeAngelis, a freshman at the Mount, assisted at the graduation in support of her sister Kayla who was one of the graduating seniors. “I came to the Mount mostly because my sister came here, but whenever I visited I felt like it was a community. Everyone was so welcoming.”

JUNE 17, 2021

— Marlo Williamson photos

Above, members of the Class of 2021 at Mount Saint Mary Academy begin the procession for the baccalaureate Mass in the school’s Immaculate Conception Chapel. Right, at the graduation ceremony, members of the class move the tassel of the other’s cap from the left to the right, which symbolizes the student’s movement from candidate to graduate. At the ceremony, Barbara Stevens, assistant superintendent, diocesan Office of Schools, told the graduates, “May God, who began his good work in you, carry you through to completion, enabling you to use your talents to the fullest.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Top photo, Mercy Sister Lisa D. Gambacorto, who has served as directress of Mount Saint Mary Academy since 2000, congratulates a graduate after conferring a diploma. Above, members of the graduating class applaud a speaker at the commenecement exercises.

GRADUATION

WATCHUNG — Members of Mount very first school retreat: We are all in Saint Mary Academy’s Class of 2021 this together. We certainly did not have were happy to be able to gather with the senior year we had hoped for yet we family, friends and made it through and faculty for commenceeven flourished. Over “As we prepare to ment exercises, June the past four years we 5. were in this together.” become freshmen Last year because She stressed that again I challenge of COVID-19 or the the grades a student coronavirus, the acadyou my classmates achieved or the colemy’s graduation was lege they were acnot to be afraid of held in a tent. cepted to are not what This year, with really matters. “What creating your own the lifting of the panmatters is the kind of demic’s restrictions, people we are and the path and getting the academy’s 86 lives we lead. The lesinvolved. Strive for graduates were able to sons we learned here receive their diplomas grace not perfection. at the Mount helped in the school’s Imus grow as an entire maculate Conception Don’t be afraid to ask person,” she said.

Chapel, the traditional we exit for help and don’t be those“When site of the baccalaurechapel doors we ate Mass and comafraid to be yourself.” will be embarking on mencement exercises, a new adventure. This —Tara DSilva, valedictorian noted Michelle Daino, new chapter in our director of Communilives is something to cations. celebrate.”

The total academic scholarships Valedictorian Tara DSilva said, and grant money awarded to the mem- “Four years ago, as we rode up the bers of the Class of 2021 was more than hill as freshman, we were told that we $21 million. would get lost among the various buildReflecting on her time at the Mount, ings and winding hallways. We were salutatorian, Martha Byrne said, “I look told to look to upper classmen for help.” back to the beginning of my Mount ex- She said the kindness of everyone was perience and I recall the theme of our certainly helpful.

In talking about her class’ last year, she said, “We worked together to tackle the challenges of senior year.” Although DSilva chose virtual learning for most of the year and despite the separation the pandemic caused, she said, she felt the love, acceptance and uplifting friendship from her classmates. “You have not just influenced me but we influenced each other,” she stated.

“As we prepare to become fresh-

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Graduates of ‘The Mount’ earn more than $21 million in scholarships

18 GRADUATION

Mount Saint Mary

Academy Congratulates the Class of 2021

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Our 86 Graduates in the Class of 2021 Received a Total of Over $21 Million in Scholarships/Grants

1645 US-22 W, Watchung, NJ 07069 (908) 757-0108 • www.MOUNTSAINTMARY.org

ALEXANDRA AHLBECK CHUNCHUN (BANI) BAI MARGARET BARR EMMA BARRETT JULIA BELL ISABELLA BETMAN SAMANTHA BIALECKI ABIGAIL BOPP MARGARET BURKE SYDNEY BYERS MARTHA BYRNE ** CHRISTINA CACACE VICTORIA CALANDRA LEJIA (IVY) CAO GRACE CARLEY HANNAH CHERRY CHEN CHI ALISA CHOUDRIE EMILY CLARKE SALLY CRANDALL KELLY CUSHING MIA CUTTONE KAYLA DeANGELIS JACLYN DENCKER SABRINA DiIORIO TARA DSILVA * ELISE FERGUSON ELLIOTT FOLEY KATE HALSTEAD YUXIAN (VERA) HE KAYLA HEBBON NORA HESS SHEILA HULSEMAN JENNIFER HUMPHREY AVERY JACOBS SHILPITHA KADIYALA CATHERINE KEELE LAUREN KIBALO AINSLEY KLEIN SIMONE KORYSZEWSKI ALEXANDRA KOT COURTENAY KRIPSAK KATHERINE KWIATKOWSKI MEGHAN LAMBERT RACHEL MACK KATHERINE MANKIEWICZ NATALIE MATHERN MARISA MAZZUCA ERIN McGAHAN ERIN McNULTY ELITA MOLOPARAMBIL MELISSA MORAN ANNEMARIE MORTIMER JOY MULZOFF KATHRYN NASTASI ABIGAIL OKUPSKI ANNE O’REILLY ROSELYN ORTIZ LEANNE PAOLINO ANGELA PECORA ISABEL PECORARO ARYANNA PEREZ SAMANTHA PEREZ ANGIE PIERRE OLIVIA QUIROGA FRANCESCA REGAN ABIGAIL RIELY MAYA RIVERA BELLE RIZZI AMANDA ROMANO ANDREA RUIZ PAIGE SCHICKLING TARA SCHILKE ISABELLA SHUBERT TERESITA SILVESTRE SERENA STINFIL FRANCESCA STREICHER ALEXA TSARSI ALISON WARDLE SARAH WARDZINSKI MEGHAN WEBBER YUEWEN (ERIN) YAN WENSHUO (ELENA) YANG SHINQI (JENNY) YU GRACE ZAMORA MENGXI (ELLA) ZHI *Valedictorian **Salutatorian

Valedictorian Tara DSilva (former directress of MSMA) (the student who best exemplifies grace and Mercy hospitality ): Avery Jacobs and Andrea Ruiz Sister Mary Kerwin ’45 Memorial Award (former directress of MSMA) (the student who best exemplifies school loyalty and compassionate service): Ainsley Klein and Belle Rizzi Sister Diane Szubrowski Humanitarian Service

Salutatorian Martha Byrne Award(Former New Jersey Region Community President of the Sisters of Mercy): Catherine Keele, Erin McGahan, Maya Rivera Outstanding Leadership Award (Gift of the Directress) (given at the discretion of the Directress – not an annual award): Andrea Ruiz National Merit Finalist: Martha Byrne National Merit Special Scholarship: Kelly Cushing

College Board National Recognition Program: Olivia Quiroga and Andrea Ruiz 2021 Cum Laude Society – Mount Saint Mary Chapter: Martha Byrne, Christina Cacace, Hannah Cherry, Tara DSilva, Sabrina DiIorio, Elliot Foley, Shilpitha Kadiyala, Catherine Keele, Simone Koryszewski, Alexandra Kot, Rachel Mack, Kathryn Nastasi, Olivia Quiroga, Andrea Ruiz, Tara Schilke, Isabella Shubert, and Grace Zamora National Honor Society – Alexandra Ahlbeck, Samantha Bialecki, Abigail Bopp, Margaret Burke, Christina Cacace, Hannah Cherry, Chen Chi, Alisa Choudrie, Sally Crandall, Kelly Cushing, Kayla DeAngelis, Jaclyn Dencker, Sabrina DiIorio, Tara DSilva, Elliot Foley, Sheila Hulseman, Avery Jacobs, Shilpitha Kadiyala, Catherine Keele, Lauren Kibalo, Ainsley Klein, Simone Koryszewski, Alexandra Kot, Rachel Mack, Katherina Mankiewicz, Natalie Mathern, Erin McGahan, Elita Moloparambil, Annemarie Mortimer, Joy Mulzoff, Kathryn Nastasi, Anne O’Reilly, Abigail Okupski, Roselyn Ortiz, Leanne Paolino, Aryanna Perez, Mary Perez, Olivia Quiroga, Francesca Regan, Abigail Riely, Amanda Romano, Andrea Ruiz, Paige Schickling, Tara Schilke, Isabella Shubert, Francesca Streicher, Alison Wardle, Meghan Webber, Yuewen (Erin) Yan, Wenghuo (Elena) Yang, Grace Zamora, and Mengxi (Ella) Zhi

GRADUATION

Valedictorian: Tara DSilva Salutatorian: Martha Byrne General Excellence – Four Years – Valedictorian (Gift of the Mercy Guild): Tara DSilva Excellence – Four Years – Salutatorian (Gift of the Fathers Club): Martha Byrne High Honors – Four Years (4.0 GPA or higher each year for all four years at MSMA – Gift of the Administration): Martha Byrne, Christina Cacace, Tara DSilva, Sabrina DiIorio, Elliot Foley, Shilpitha Kadiyala, Simone Koryszewski, Alexandra Kot, Leanne Paolino, Olivia Quiroga, Andrea Ruiz, Tara Schilke, Isabella Shubert, Grace Zamora Bishop Checchio Religion Medal 2021 (Gift of the Diocese of Metuchen): Rachel Mack School Leadership Award (Gift of the Alumnae): Jaclyn Dencker, Avery Jacobs, Ainsley Klein, Katherine Kwiatkowski, Erin McGahan School Spirit Award (Gift of the Fathers Club): Margaret Burke and Angela Pecora Catherine McAuley Award (Gift of the Sisters of Mercy) (the student who made the most of her potential while at MSMA): Kate Singer Halstead, Melissa Moran Christian Leadership Award (Gift of Campus Ministry): Tara Schilke Sister M. Eloise Claire Kays Memorial Award

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Mount Saint Mary Academy Awards

Congratulations to our Graduates!

Class of

JUNE 17, 2021

Recipients of $153,500 in annual high school scholarships!

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

2 0 2 1

20 GRADUATION

Retiring history teacher shares lessons, memories of long career

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

Winston Churchill once noted, “If you find a job you love, you’ll never work again.”

If that is true, how can John Peter Keller’s 53-year career as a Catholic high school teacher be best described? Let the teacher labelled “best storyteller” year after year by his students explain.

“I get up in the morning, and it’s not like going to work, but going to school,” Keller said before his retirement in June from Immaculata High School, Somerville. “My wife said, ‘You are where you are happy.’”

Keller was educated in the now closed St. Peter the Apostle High School, New Brunswick, and credits its legendary history teacher, World War II and Korean War veteran Francis “Bud” Murphy, as a major influence in choosing a career.

“Bud Murphy was the one that got me interested in history,” Keller said. “He was the teacher that made the biggest impression on me, the one guy that everyone said was their favorite teacher.”

Keller graduated from Assumption College, Worcester, Mass., and began his

own teaching career in 1968 working with troubled teens in Mount St. John’s Residential Home and School, Deep River, Conn.

News of Murphy’s death that December prompted him to take up the reins of history teacher at his alma mater; recalling his initial contract in February, 1969, Keller chuckled, “My first salary was $4,000.

Well, basically it was $2,000, because it was only half the year.”

Keller began an illustrious 38-year career at St. Peter’s instructing sophomores and seniors in United States and New Jersey history, as well as serving as senior class moderator; athletic director for six years; baseball coach for 25 years; softball coach for three, and substitute bus driver for the athletic department. Keller’s wife, Marie, also taught at the school for a time, and the couple enrolled their two children, John and Rachel, in the New Brunswick Catholic school.

“You get out of it what you put in,” said Keller of Catholic schooling. “I found more freedom of expression in the classroom. One of my greatest joys was interacting with the kids. There is something about kids when they genuinely appreciate what you do.”

With St. Peter’s closure in 2007, Keller joined the history department at Immaculata and continued his appreciation for Catholic education. Immersing himself in school activities and Spartan culture, Keller served as senior class moderator, site supervisor for sporting events; chaperone, Model United Nations, boys basketball timekeeper and occasional public address announcer.

“How I get voted ‘best storyteller’ for history can be very anecdotal,” he noted.

“A student in one of my classes recently looked at me with a funny stare, and when I asked her why she said, ‘You really like this stuff, don’t you?’

“I don’t know if she realized what a compliment that was.”

The time is right to retire, Keller admitted: his wife Marie has retired after a 43-year teaching career and their retirement home in Massachusetts is nearly renovated. Keller added, “I am 75 years old now. I look at the kids and tell them I have a much different perspective on teenagers than a lot of senior citizens do because I am with you every day. That’s what I’ll will miss, what I will carry away with me.”

Reflecting upon the most important lessons he imparted over his 53 years of

John P. Keller is shown at Immaculata High School in May. — Christina Leslie photo teaching, he repeated the advice he had first uttered to a St. Peter’s High School graduating class at their commencement: never stop learning.

“Take things out the door with you from all of us,” Keller had told the students.

“Try to learn something from everyone you come in contact with. You may not have learned history from me, but maybe you learned that I respect people. That’s a better lesson than you remembering George Washington was at Valley Forge.”

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Students’ devotion to school’s mission helped make program ’Possible’ SOMERVILLE — Last fall, the challenge facing the nationally recognized Campus Ministry Service Program at Immaculata High School was harnessing the dedication and energy of its student volunteers, while creating COVID-safe programs to help the local poor and marginalized. As the school year winds down, the consensus is that through inspired leadership, prayer, and the immense flexibility and patience of the Spartans, the efforts were very successful.

The kickoff occurred last July when a new program, Mission Possible, was unveiled. For generations, many Immaculata students headed to Wayne County, W.Va., to help with construction projects for a weeklong summer mission. In 2020, through Mission Possible supervised students devoted their efforts to the Garden State; on their agenda were painting a church parking lot, gathering fresh produce for area soup kitchens and pantries, preparing food trays, planting flowers at local ARC group homes, and delivering donated items to thrift stores.

When the school bells rang in September, the 150-plus traditional volunteer initiatives were whittled down, focusing on campus projects and outdoor activities.

Since the school debuted its block scheduling program, this allowed students bigger time segments to volunteer during the school day. Eleven innovative initiatives, called Take Out Service, were piloted as student-generated volunteer activities.

Very popular is Student Chefs, in which a Spartan prepares a dish for Samaritan Homeless Interim Program’s (SHIP) mobile soup truck or Somerville’s Agape House, a transitional residence for the disadvantaged.

Another is K-Cups ‘n’ Flix, in which coffee

grounds are scooped from used K-cups for the school’s compost garden. Invent Your Service is an additional exciting development, in which students customize their service contributions.

Among the highlights were students who donated proceeds from snow shoveling or leaf raking, wrote letters of holiday cheer, woodchipped branches or even mapped out the best decorated holiday homes for local families.

Immaculata maintained its strong connections with Catholic Charities, SHIP, Agape House, and Pregnancy Aid Center, and the student body collected 900 pounds of food for the Spartan Spirit Challenge last month alone.

Rescuing furniture and repurposing it for those in need remains a huge priority, but Campus Ministry, the mainstay of the school’s Pillar of Service, also forged new community ties. Through Feeding Hands of Raritan, students prepared food packages for the needy. Immaculata has joined forces with projects for The Hunterdon Chamber of Commerce. A new connection was established with the Community Food Bank of Hillside Service was robust and life-changing once again at Immaculata, it was just via different programs. Despite the cancellation of the Annual Garage Sale, Fall Bike Sale, and Appalachia, which earn students massive points for hours volunteered, two students, John Cavanagh and Aubrey Reno still qualified for the Campus Ministry Service Hall of Fame. Cavanagh broke the nearly 20-year record of service events with nearly 250 over his high school career. Reno has devoted a great deal of service to Appalachia-related

Giavana Pechillo, Marissa Mellyn and James Dimino, seniors at Immaculata High School who volunteered for its Food Shopping for the Elderly program, pose at a store.

Because of the COVID-19 or coronavirus pandemic, the Somerville-based school had to decrease its traditional 150-plus traditional volunteer initiatives this school year.

—photo courtesy of Immaculata High School

programs and even went there this Christmas season with her father to assist in the vital food program, providing essentials for 700 rural families in Wayne County.

“Our founder, Msgr. Eugene Kelly, selected Unitas Caritas [Unity through Charity] as our school motto nearly 60 years ago,” explains Rich Grieshaber, at the helm of Immaculata community service for 21 years. “The pandemic brought obstacles to our traditional ways of living out that motto, but we persevered. What this year has emphasized to our student volunteers is that poverty doesn’t take a vacation. And in tough times such as these, new pockets of poverty are created. So, our assistance to the poor, inspired by the teachings of Jesus, has to be steady and consistent. I do believe that this program, especially this year, fosters

a lifetime commitment to serving the less fortunate.

“In addition, our students watched the adults, who created new opportunities to help the needy, while keeping our volunteers safe. Without being conscious of it, our leadership team taught some great life lessons on overcoming hurdles and meeting goals. We are very blessed to have the administration/ faculty, parent, and student support that we do have, because it allowed us in this unprecedented year to teach our Spartans the value of service, as well as creative problem solving and tenacity.

“Moving ahead, we look forward to blending our standard format with our pandemic-inspired options to give our students and our community the best service opportunities in the future.”

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Wishing the

St. Augustine of Canterbury School CELEBRATES AND CONGRATULATES

OUR CLASS OF 2021!

all the best as they continue on their journey

GRADUATION

St. Matthew School Class of 2021

"Act justly, love mercy, and walk humbly with your God" Micah 6:8

CONGRATULATIONS

Saint Helena School

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JUNE 17, 2021

Class of 2021

GRADUATION

22

Colleges adapted to pandemic

Special Guests Bishop James F. Checchio, center, poses with, from left: John G. Nolan Jr., president, Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen; Father Michael G. Krull, a member of the school’s Class of 1976; co-valedictorians Patrick Keefe and Jos Parayil; and Anne Rivera, principal, after graduation ceremonies at Sacred Heart Church, South Plainfield, May 21. A total of 130 students at the all-boys college preparatory school received diplomas. The members of the Class of 2021 had been awarded $33,609,888 in scholarship money.

— Marlo Williamson photo

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

314 Old Allerton Road, Annandale

2020-2021 Eighth Grade Graduates Mrs. Constance Fortunato, Principal Rev. Jonathan S. Toborowsky, Pastor

WASHINGTON (CNS) — Catholic college graduation ceremonies — like everything else this past year — look different.

But they are primarily happening in-person unlike last year, when many ceremonies were canceled or took place virtually.

Many Catholic colleges have listed a backup plan if there is inclement weather, tapping into that flexibility that have used during the past year to adapt to COVID-19 restrictions.

The Franciscan University, Steubenville, Ohio, for example, said in its graduation announcement: “Please note that all plans are subject to change as we respond to health and safety protocols in a rapidly changing environment.”

To accommodate students and their guests at this year’s graduation, the University of Dayton, a Marianist-run school in Ohio, held six smaller ceremonies in its arena for the May 7-9 graduations, where graduates were each allowed four guests.

John Garvey, president, The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C., similarly sent a message to the school community about this year’s different graduation ceremony May 15 at FedEx Field, Landover, Md. In his April 9 message, he pointed out that since the 1960s, Catholic University has held its commencement on the campus mall adjacent to the Basilica of the National

Shrine of the Immaculate Conception.

Benedictine College, Atchison, Kan., also changed its usual commencement venue by holding its May 15 ceremony at the school’s football stadium, instead of indoors as it has been for decades. Because last year’s commencement was canceled, graduates from the previous year will be honored at this year’s ceremony and the speaker will be last year’s scheduled speaker: Auxiliary Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens of St. Paul and Minneapolis, who is a 1991 alum of Benedictine College.

Loyola University Maryland in Baltimore combined its ceremony for last year’s graduates and this year’s. Notre Dame of Maryland, also in Baltimore, had a virtual graduation ceremony May 23, but the week prior to the ceremony, 2020 and 2021 graduates were invited to return to campus to take pictures and receive their diplomas.

No matter the venue or the crowd size at this year’s graduation ceremonies throughout the month of May, the topic of the coronavirus pandemic and its impact on students, faculty and staff and the world loomed large.

This was the case at Assumption University, Worcester, Mass., where the university’s president, Francesco Cesareo, told graduates during the May 9 ceremony that they represent a milestone in the school’s history.

23 GRADUATION

ST. JAMES SCHOOL Woodbridge C L A SS O F 2 0 2 1

Keira Carroll, Dylan Chiera*, Amanda Stadtmiller, Anthony Garofolo, Gianna Arduini*, David Dudas Jr. Oliver Majernik, Alivia Collier, Derek Rey Escobar, Alivia Bartholomew, Sean Martinez, Gabrielle Ziegenbalg Magdalena Dindayal, Cole Costello, Katherine Powers, Carmine Vella, Sofia Grasso*, Massimo Mansueto Edward Smietana, Willow Dixson*, Julian Benitez, Gwendolyn Negron, Aidan Thompson, Carly McKinney Brielle Cubala, Joseph Figueira-Oyola, Daniella Maliwat, Anthony Eastman, Elizabeth Negron, Brady Thompson, Emily Dougherty Averie Branche*, Jessica Imbriani, Benjamin Sachewicz, Maria Cerchio, Avamarie Smolar, Sophia Casalinuovo, Alyssa Repace *SJV Inducted Members of the National Junior Honor Society

Congratulations & God Bless the Class of 2021!

C L ASS O F 2 02 1 Bishop George Ahr High School Immaculata High School Mount Saint Mary Academy Saint Joseph High School

expand.georgian.edu

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JUNE 17, 2021

! s n o i t a l u t a r g n Co

Learn more about Georgian Court, our programs, our values, and our Catholic Mercy mission, visit

GRADUATION 24

Congratulation

— Marlo Williamson photo

— Marlo Willianson photo

— Marlo Williamson photo

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

— Marlo Willianson photo

— Marlo Williamson photo

— Marlo Williamson photo

The Diocese o Catholic Hi St. Thomas Aquin Saint Joseph • Mo

of Metuchen igh Schools nas • Immaculata ount Saint Mary

GRADUATION

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

25

ns Class of 2021

— John Batkowski photo

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

— John Batkowski photo

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

— John Batkowski photo

JUNE 17, 2021

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

26 GRADUATION

CONGRATULATIONS TO THE

CLASS of 2021 $258,537

100%

average scholarship per student

college acceptance

$33,609,888

74%

in scholarships

fourteen student-athletes competing in college sports

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

received scholarships in excess of 4-year SJHS tuition

million

www.STJOES.org ∙ (732) 549-7600 ∙ 145 Plainfield Ave. Metuchen

“Wicked,” the priest quoted lines from the song “For Good,” and noted, “Because you have helped each other, you have been SOUTH PLAINFIELD — “All of us, changed for good. Because of our faith, we as freshman, were akin to raw blocks of have been changed for good to eternity.

“It’s up to you. You must not only get marble,” said Saint Joseph High School covaledictorian Jos Parayil to the members of used to different but making a difference,” the Class of 2021 at Sacred Heart Church. he concluded. “On behalf of the several thousand alumni which you now join to“Inside each of us lay dormant potential.”

The all-boys Catholic college prep day, welcome to the Falcon family.”

In his valedictory address, Parayil, school in Metuchen, whose students are who will study at New educated by the Brothers University, New York, of the Sacred Heart, feted “He [God] wants York this fall, advised his fellow 130 students May 21 during a baccalaureate Mass to assist you in graduating seniors that their dormant potential is the beand graduation ceremony four years in the making. life. Find campus ginnings of a Saint Joseph’s man “just waiting for the The members of the Class ministries on right environment and carof 2021 had been awarded $33,609,888 in scholarship your new campus ing hands to be chiseled out. the skills, knowledge money. and stay close to Using and friendships we have Father Michael G. Krull, pastor, Our Lady of people who have made over these years as our hammer and chisel, we can Peace Parish, North Brunsyour back.” make that leap to sculpt a wick, and member of the —Bishop James F. better world.”

Saint Joseph Class of 1976, Fellow valedictorian presided at the Mass and Checchio Patrick Keefe, bound for gave the homily, during Duke University, Durham, which he urged the seniors N.C., said the previous four before him to embrace change.

In his homily, Father Krull noted, “I years reminded him of an old car commeram a fan of the television series ‘The Cho- cial.

“When [the auto shoppers] see the car, sen.’ When one of the disciples objected to the new way Jesus behaved, saying it was they are surprised and impressed because different, Jesus answered him, ‘Get used to it is not at all what they expected,” Keefe different. [The phrase] is on my facemask, said. “I feel like a lot of people didn’t expect us to do all the things we were able too.”

Calling their graduation “an exciting, to accomplish this year in the midst of all happy time,” Father Krull reminded the the chaos.”

Anne Rivera, principal, spoke to the Class of 2021 to “go get used to different” parents saying, “What we witness [in this and follow Jesus.

“You know what your talents are, you class] has more to do with perseverance discern them,” he continued. “Use them. than loss.”

School president John G. Nolan exThat should be your call to make a difference. Forty-five years ago, I sat where you pressed joy that all of the graduates are were with that same source of excitement.” college bound and urged them to “keep Referencing the Broadway musical God and Saint Joseph in your hearts.”

GRADUATION

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

27

Saint Joseph High School graduates 130 at commencement exercises

Members of the Class of 2021 at Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen, gather at Sacred Heart Church, South Plainfield, for graduation cermonies May 21. The members of the class had been awarded $33,609,888 in scholarship money. Father Michael G. Krull, pastor, Our Lady of Peace Parish, North Brunswick, and member of the Saint Joseph Class of 1976, presided at the Mass and gave the homily.

— Marlo Williamson photo

Jessamyn Bergin, dean of studies, read aloud the names of the 130 students who had earned their diplomas, including three sets of twins. All maintained a quiet, reverent demeanor, but as the final name was announced, the graduates rose as one and roared in delight, waving their hardearned diplomas aloft.

In his closing remarks, Bishop James F. Checchio observed that the seniors’ education was not confined to classroom subjects.

“We learned a lot this year, above all that we cannot control everything. We know who can: our Father in heaven who knit you together in your mother’s womb,” the bishop said. “You have nothing at all to lose by giving yourself to Him. He wants to assist you in life. Find campus ministries on your new campus and stay close to people who have your back.”

Following the ceremony, each entered nearby Holy Savior Academy to change

out of his green gown and emerged with a new white baseball cap emblazoned with the green Falcon insignia and the word “Alumni” on its back.

Proud parents snapped pictures with their sons and friends, and explained their motivations to offer the boys a secondary Catholic education.

“These four of five boys have been together since they began playing baseball as kids,” explained Edward Kuczynski as he gazed towards the group of young men.

His son, Robert, was accepted to more than a dozen schools and chose to attend Fairleigh Dickinson University, Madison. “We wanted to continue his Catholic faith.”

“We have always loved Catholic schools,” said Iwona Pliszak, explaining her family’s choice to choose Saint Joseph High School. Her son, Matthew, has selected to continue his education at Northeastern University, Boston. “We want him to live these values,” she said.

Saint Joseph High School Awards

Continued on next page

Co-Valedictorian Jos Parayil

Co-Valedictorian Patrick Keefe

JUNE 17, 2021

Bubb, Ryan Chan, Karson Chen, Matthew Cuccia, Jenocent Edwardraj, Justin Ferber, William Figura, Matthew Furnell, Sean Gebauer, Phyllip Gwozdz, Adam Herban, Patrick Keefe, Isaiah Maningas, Andrew Musto, Jos Parayil, Brady Patterson, Alessandro Pugliese, Harris Pyo, Thomas Romond, Ciaran Scott, Leo Shear, Donald Stralkus III, Gabriel Suero Diaz, Andrew Terhune, Benjamin Ullrich, Francisco Vazquez, Giovanni Young-Annunziato Clubs/Activities – Art National Honor Society – (Sacré Coeur Award and Falcon Award): Aidan Toro, Christopher Wylde Chess Team: Gregory Bergquist, Andrew Terhune Coding Club: Brady Patterson, Colin Friedlander College Bowl: Matthew Furnell, Giovanni YoungAnnunziato German National Honor Society: Michael Vandermeer, Vincent Tramontana International Thespian Society: Francisco Vazquez, Matthew Heitz Investment Club: Brady Patterson, Nolan Patterson

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Valedictorian Award: Patrick Keefe and Jos Parayil Academic Awards – Cum Laude Four-year (seven semester) cumulative GPA > 3.8: Osiris Acevedo, Garret Bolton, Michael Calisto, Matthew Grossman, Swastik Grover, Liam Harding, Timothy Kalapala, Benjamin Kuchipudi, Brendon Kupsch, Matthew Metzgar, Chrospher Parise, Nolan Patterson, Sherwin Sequeira, Christian Trevino, Michael Vandermeer, Cameron Watkins Magna Cum Laude Four-year (seven semester) cumulative GPA > 4.0: Mahdi Bandali, Aidan Carchio, Andrew Dekovics, Gabriel Dela Plaza, Giovanni DeNatale, Davin Du, Eric Gonzalez, Tyler Graham James Gwozdz, Holden Harbison, Rey Jean, Jeffrey Lance, Andrew Marcinczyk, Ryan Martinez, Michael McElwain, Joseph Myers, Christopher Nokes, Kristian Nunez, Matthew Orlando, Matthew Pliszak, Damian Polinski, Aleksander Rivera, Nestor Sinchire, John Spiaggia, Vincent Tramontana, Sanjith Vijayakumar Summa Cum Laude -- Four-year (seven semester) cumulative GPA > 4.40: Nicholas Adams, Anthony Altobelli IV, William Barnett, Gregory Bergquist, Ciaran

28 GRADUATION

Saint Joseph High School Awards

Continued from previous page

Latin Honor Society: Phyllip Gwozdz, Andrew Musto Literary Magazine – Vignette: Matthew Furnell, Isaac Alexander Math League: Andrew Terhune, Sanjith Vijayakumar Model United Nations: Jos Parayil, Isaac Alexander National Honor Society: Jos Parayil, Davin Du Newspaper -- The Falcon: Giovanni Young-Annunziato, Kristian Nunez Robotics Team: Christopher Nokes, Benjamin Ullrich Science League: Ciaran Bubb, Benjamin Ullrich Science National Honor Society: Isaiah Maningas, Matthew Furnell Broadcasting: Francisco Vazquez, Liam Harding Spanish National Honor Society: Anthony Altobelli IV, Nestor Sinchire Theatre Company Actors: Yash Krishnan, Aidan Toro Theatre Company – Tech: Francisco Vazquez, Christopher Wylde Tri M Music National Honor Society: Giovanni YoungAnnunziato, Yash Krishnan Yearbook – Evergreen: Jenocent Edwardraj, Patrick Keefe Service Club Awards – Campus Ministry (Sacré Coeur Award and Falcon Award): Jeffrey Lance, Andrew Dekovics Falcons for Safety: Vincent Tramontana, Christopher Wylde Justiceworx Club: Giovanni DeNatale, Anthony Altobelli IV Student Council: Jeffrey Lance, Michael McElwain Special Awards -- Alumni Award: Benjamin Kuchipudi and Jeffrey Lance Anthony S. Spezio Memorial Award: Giovanni Young-

Annunziato Bishop Checchio Medal: Alessandro Pugliese Curtis Nurnberger Memorial Award for Excellence in Music: Gabriel Suero Diaz Falcon Impact and Integrity in Athletics Award: Vincent Tramontana Gavin MacDonald Memorial Scholarship for Excellence: Gabriel Dela Plaza George F. Smith Memorial Award: Isaac Alexander Kevin Reinhard ’05 Memorial Scholarship: Kody Robinson Ryan Terracciano ’09 Memorial Award: Donald Stralkus III Senior of the Year as Chosen by Edison Rotary: Alessandro Pugliese William Perdue Memorial Award for Excellence in Mathematics: Andrew Terhune Department Awards – (For Excellence and Department Award) Computer Science and Applied Technology: Andrew Terhune, Justin Ferber English: Giovanni Young-Annunziato, Donald Stralkus III Fine and Performing Arts: Aidan Toro, Ciaran Bubb Halth and Physical Educaion: Albert Lambertucci, Christian Trevino Mathematics: Ciaran Bubb, Harris Pyo Science: Ciaran Bubb, Harris Pyo Social Studies: Jeffrey Lance, Alessandro Pugliese Theology: Gabriel Suero Diaz, Giovanni Young-Annunziato World Languages – German: Michael Vandermeer, Matthew Heitz Latin: Gregory Bergquist, Alessandro Pugliese Spanish: William Figura, Gabriel Suero Diaz Honors Diploma: Ciaran Bubb, Jenocent Edwardraj,

Patrick Keefe, Jos Parayil, Alessandro Pugliese, Harris Pyo, Donald Stralkus III, Benjamin Ullrich Scholar-Athlete Award: Thomas Romond Honors Previous Awarded (first, second and third places) 46th Annual Robert Frost Literary Contest – Senior Division -- Fiction: Thomas Romond – “Under the Sun;” Ciaran Bubb – “One in the Same;” John Spiaggia – “Untitled – Small Fleet” Nonfiction: Alessandro Pugliese – “Untitled – In His Shoes;” Giovanni Young-Annunziato – “American Standard;” Vijayakumar – “My Trip to Harvard Medical School Poetry: Aleksander Rivera – “Plight of the Bumblebee;” Francisco Vazquez – “Cold;” Michael Cansfield – “Let Your Soul Run Wild” Edison Rotary Seniors of the Month: Nicholas Adams, William Barnett, Matthew Cuccia, Jenocent Edwardraj, Justin Ferber, Matthew Grossman, Holden Harbison, Adam Herban, Benjamin Kuchipudi, Ryan Martinez, Christopher Parise, Alessandro Pugliese, Ciaran Scott, Andrew Terhune, Francisco Vazquez Athletics -- NJSIAA Scholar Athlete Award: Donald Stralkus III GMS Scholar Athlete Award: William Figura GMC Sportsmanship Award: Alessandro Pugliese Model United Naions CONA Delegate (Alternate): Isaac Alexander National Latin Exam -- Latin IV – Advanced Prose -- Gold Summa Cum Laude: Keith Nieves Magna Cum Laude: Giovanni Young-Annunziato Cum Laude: Phyllip Gwozdz National Merit Commended: Isaac Alexander, Gregory

Members of the Class of 2021 at Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen, process from Church of the Sacred Heart, South Plainfield, after commencement exercises May 21.

— Marlo Williamson photo

Berquist, Ciaran Bubb, Justin Ferber, Matthew Furnell, Patrick Keefe, Isaiah Maningas, Jos Parayil, Harris Pyo, Donald Stralkus III, Andrew Terhune, Benjamin Ullrich. Semifinalist: Benjamin Ullrich. Finalist: Benjamin Ullrich Special Scholarship Program -- Siemens Foundation: Andrew Terhune

Immaculate Conception School, Somerville

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Congratulations Class of 2021!

May God's love and grace always surround you!

back up. Life, lots of times, isn’t the way we planned it, but God walks with us. As you go forward … don’t give in to FUD, SOUTH PLAINFIELD — “Find your don’t hide that light under that bushel strength in God, in family, in one another basket.”

This year’s STA and yourself,” Bishop James graduating class, indeed, F. Checchio advised the 164 made sure their light shone graduates of St. Thomas Continue to brightly. Students earned Aquinas High School, Edison, seated before him grow academi- more than $29 million in scholarships and grants, and in The Church of the Sacred Heart May 27 for their bac- cally, personally plan to continue their higher education at 69 different calaureate Mass and graduation. “Jesus wants nothing and spiritually… colleges and universities in from you, just to accompany Your optimism, 20 states.

Salutatorian An Bao you, nourish and strengthen resilience and Nguyen reminded his classyou.” mates that the importance Restricted to a virstrength has lies in the good days, not the tual graduation last year due to the pandemic, family inspired us. We bad. “Embrace the memories we’ve already made and and friends of the Edison salute you.” appreciate what has always Catholic secondary school’s — Harry Ziegler been in front of us,” he said. students joyfully filled the “Never take anything for pews of the large church, granted… stay true to your waving to fellow parents they had not seen in more than a year. roots and take advantage of each and evFelician Sister Donna Marie Trukowski, ery day of your life.”

Valedictorian Alison Cecilia Picerno president, addressed the families of the red-robed graduates, recognizing that the noted, “The memories that held most impandemic’s grip meant, “it has been a portance stemmed from risks I was willchallenging year and a half. But they are ing to take,’ admitted. “Anything is posgrown and different, and they will be suc- sible… if we are willing to take action…

Despite [the pandemic] we found new cessful.”

In his homily at the baccalaureate ways to provide compassion, new ways to Mass, Father Keith M. Cervine, chaplain lend support, and new ways to socialize. and director of Catholic Identity, warned Instead of being defined by challenges, the students not to surrender to the cryp- we defined ourselves through the ways we tocurrency market acronym FUD: fear, began to heal.”

Principal Harry Ziegler assisted uncertainty and doubt.

“Even in the midst of FUD, God is Bishop Checchio in the conferral of diplowith us,” Father Cervine told the gradu- mas; befitting their presence in a house of ates. “We are called to be light to the God, attendees were respectfully silent as world. When the world throws that FUD each name was read. After the graduates at you, you can’t let it get you down. performed the traditional turning of the cap tassels to commemorate graduation, Through all of life, God is with us.”

Quoting the movie “Rocky,” the their jubilation could no longer be suppriest continued, “It’s not how many times pressed and the large church resounded you get hit, it’s how many times you get with applause and joyful shouts.

GRADUATION

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

29

164 graduates of Saint Thomas Aquinas High reminded: ‘God is with us’

Above, members of the Class of 2021 at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, process into Sacred Heart Church, South Plainfield, for a baccalaureate Mass and commencement exercises May 27. Right, Bishop James F. Checchio addresses the graduates and families. Bishop Checchio ecnouraged the graduates by telling them, “Jesus wants nothing from you, just to accompany you, nourish and strengthen you.”

— Marlo Williamson photos

In his last address to the class of 2021, Ziegler quoted British Prime Minister Winston Churchill, who said during World War II: “Success is not final, failure is not fatal. It is the courage to continue that counts.”

“You, too, have fought a war against a deadly enemy,” Ziegler told the teens.

“Not only did it steal lives and memories [but] life has not been the same. You not only survived, you continued to quest for excellence.

“Continue to grow academically, personally and spiritually… Your optimism, resilience and strength has inspired

JUNE 17, 2021

— Marlo Williamson photos

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Left, after commencement exercises, Bishop Checchio, second from left, posed with Saint Thomas Aquinas High School’s 2021 valedictorian Alison Picerno, salutatorian An Nguyen and Harry Ziegler, principal. Above, graduates celebrate after the ceremonies. Members of the Class of 2021 earned more than $29 million in scholarships and grants, and plan to continue their higher education at 69 different colleges and universities in 20 states.

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

GRADUATION

30

Valedictorian Alison Picerno

Salutatorian An Nguyen

Social Studies Award: Gianna Strazzulla Spanish Award: Sian Brossard Distinguished Contribution to Insight Staff: Grace Lancia, Melanie Mallari, Carissa Matrale, Wafa Qureshi, Allison Tkacenko, Sara Walsh Distinguished Contributions as Satoma Editor: Christopher O’Connell Excellence in S.T.E.M. Award: Victoria Serafin Excellence in Video Production – On-Camera: Jalen Jones Excellence as Aquinas Star Chair of Student Council: Joseph Simmons Jr. Drama Department Awards – Backstage Excellence: Mary Schilp Distinguished Contribution: Kaitlyn Davis, Fiorella Merriman-Mendez, Christopher Nguyen Director’s-Technical Excellence: Abigail McCarty, Victo-

ria Serafin Director’s-Excellence in Dance: Cayla Shae O’Neil Director’s-Most Improved Performer over 4 Years: Jaren Buliyat Excellence in Acting: Anthony Cacchione, Anna Caruso, Joseph Valenzuela Excellence: Miles Farrell Outstanding Stage Performance: Anthony Cacchione, Joseph Valenzuela Outstanding Dedication to Drama: Samuel Corry, Jaren Buliyat, Victoria Knapp, Abigail McCarty, Antonio Ortega, Cayla Shae O’Neil, Bryanna Rosa, Joseph Valenzuela Participatory Excellence: Michael Carr, Abigail Chadwick, Alexander Gofferman, Thomas Koenig, Gianna Kormondy, Grace Lancia, Edward McGillicuddy, Nihaal Walia Music Awards -- Outstanding Contributions to the Jazz Ensemble: Diogo Costa

Outstanding Contributions-Achievements Marching Band: Olivia Robinson Outstanding Contributions-Achievements Color Guard: Anali Rodriguez Outstanding Contributions-Achievements in Chorus: Isabella Hamm Outstanding Contributions to Music Community: Mary Strunak, Joseph Valenzuela Outstanding Jazz Musicianship: Mary Strunak Exceptional Musicianship, Leadership-Dedication to Choral Music: Joseph Valenzuela Robin Cone Memorial Award: Brianna Dy Brian Crelin Memorial Award: Miles Farrell Herff Jones Award for Journalism Award: An Nguyen Karen Trautvetter Memorial Award: Joseph Valenzuela Marine Corps Athletic Award, Semper Fi Award: Miles Farrell Four Years Perfect Attendance: Jamie Hamilton Justin McCarthy Award: Sara Walsh Kathleen Duffy Memorial Award: Adam Kubisiak Nicholas College Northeast Principal’s Award: Ryan Salamante President’s Volunteer Service Award: Thomas Koenig Prudential Spirit of Community Award-Certificate of Achievement: Thomas Koenig Prudential Spirit of Community Certificate of Merit Award: Kiara Cronin Scott Stringer Award: Bryanna Rosa Spirit of Blessed Mother Angela Award: Abigail Chadwick, Melanie Mallari St. Bernadette Columbiettes Good Citizen Award: Kiara Cronin Zolnier Student Leadership and Service Award: Jaren Buliya

GRADUATION

Valedictorian: Alison Picerno Salutatorian: An Nguyen Academic Awards Four Years Principal’s Honor Roll: Katherine Abrams, Kaitlyn Adlassnig, Eleni Alvarez, Aadharsh Baskar, Jaren Buliyat, Abigail Chadwick, Francesca Citro, Kiara Cronin, Caroline DiMaggio, Alexa Gates, Alexander Gofferman, Thomas Koenig, Melanie Mallari, Carissa Matrale, Fiorella Merriman-Mendez, Victoria Nasto, An Nguyen, Christopher O’Connell, Alison Picerno, Kristel Rambaud, Emily Scott, Mary Strunak, Sara Walsh, Lizhe Zhang Principal’s Honor Roll: Patrick Abd, Ashley Abi-Atme, Sian Brossard, Anthony Cacchione, Samuel Corry, Karina Diaz, Connor Doherty, Timothy Drake, Amaris Hemmingway, Katherine Iko, Mich Kelly, Sean O’Leary,Wafa Qureshi, Bryanna Rosa, RichardVavrak, NihaalWalia, SiyuanWang, Yudan Xiao, Wenxi Yin, Jiaqi Zheng, Jiaying Zheng Air Force Math & Science Award: Jiaqi Zheng Air Force Technology Award: Naomi Southerland Art Award: Siyuan Wang Biology Award: Kristel Rambaud Bishop Checchio Religion Award: Abigail Chadwick English Award: Gianna Strazzulla Excellence in Technology Award: Aadharsh Baskar Excellence in Writing Award: Gianna Strazzulla French Award: Naomi Southerland Italian Award: Mary Strunak Latin Award: Kristel Rambaud Marine Corps Scholastic Excellence Award: Caroline DiMaggio Math Award: An Nguyen Middlesex County Scholar Athlete: Melanie Mallari Physical Education Award: Eleni Alvarez, Christopher O’Connell Physical Science Award: Eleni Alvarez

31

St. Thomas Aquinas High School Awards

PERTH AMBOY CATHOLIC SCHOOL THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

with pride congratulate our

Class of

2021

JUNE 17, 2021

Not Pictured: Milagros Galo, Eduardo Pimentel-Suriel, Alan Valdez

32 GRADUATION

St. Thomas the Apostle School

CLASS OF 2021 graduates

Where you’ll find our graduates in September...

Saint Joseph • St. Thomas Aquinas • Trinity Hall • St. John Vianney • Red Bank Catholic • Christian Brothers Academy • Mater Dei • Lincroft High Technology • Freehold Bio Tech • Ranney High School • Old Bridge High School • East Brunswick High School • Marlboro High School • Manalapan High School • Colts Neck High School 333 HIGHWAY 18, OLD BRIDGE, NJ · 732-251-4000 · STTAOB.COM

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

CON GRAT U L AT IONS

St. Bartholomew School Class of 2021 May God bless you and keep you close to His heart.

Father Thomas Walsh, Father James DeFillipps, Mrs. Ann Wierzbicki, and the St. Bartholomew School Faculty & Staff

GRADUATION

Mother Seton Regional High demic Excellence during the past four School, Clark, held commencement years was awarded to valedictorian exercises May 27. Diplomas were Cara DeMaio, and salutatorian Tanya presented by Charity Sister Jacquelyn Chaudhry, both of Edison.

The Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Balasia, principal.

Award for Exemplary Members of the Witness to Christian Class of 2021 earned in Values during the past excess of $16.7 million “What you four years was awarded in academic scholarto Sophia Almeida of ships and awards. accomplish in Union.

In her remarks, life is not for you In her remarks, DeSister Jacquelyn told Maio said, “Live life to the graduates, “Please alone, but in the fullest and always do not take anything service to others; stay positive because for granted. Always be everything happens for grateful — spend a few that is how you a reason. Every chance minutes each day in you have, strive to be grateful thanksgiving will make a better.” to our God. Appreciate difference in DeMaio plans to those around you! studying biology at “What you acour world.”

Fordham University, complish in life is not —Charity Sister Bronx, N.Y. for you alone, but in Jacquelyn Balasia Chaudhry plans to service to others, that major in psychology and is how you will make a biology at New York difference in our world.

If we believe that we can change the University.

Uchechi Onwunali, of Union, world, God will show us how to do it.

“Go now and know that you are Senior Class President, invited the loved very much by our God and by members of the Class of 2021 to join us and you are always welcome to her in turning their tassels as a symcome home, here to Mother Seton Re- bol of their graduation. Uchechi plans to attend Rutgers University, New gional.”

The Principal’s Award for Aca- Brunswick.

33

All-girls school graduates encouraged to give thanks to God daily

Above, valedictorian Cara DeMaio of Edison, receives her diploma from Charity Sister Jacquelyn Balasia, principal, Mother Seton Regional High School, Clark, at commencement exercises May 27.

Right, Erin Hutnick of Kendall Park, Gabby Martini of Edison, DeMaio and Julie Witheridge of Rahway pose for a photo after commencement exercises.

— photos courtesy of Mother Seton Regional High School

MOTHER SETON REGIONAL HIGH SCHOOL CONGRATULATES THE GRADUATES OF THE CLASS OF 2021

8 SETON DISTINGUISHED SCHOLARS

Our graduates earned in excess of $16 million in academic scholarships and grants.

1 Valley Road, Clark, New Jersey 07066 • 732-382-1952 • www.motherseton.org

JUNE 17, 2021

Mother Seton Regional High School is a Catholic, regional high school of the Archdiocese of Newark.

We are a college prep school for young women in grades 9 through 12.

The school is served by the Sisters of Charity of Convent Station NJ and lay faculty members.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

A Tradition of Academic Excellence and Seton Spirit

34 GRADUATION

Benedictine-run school confers diplomas to 132 graduates On June 6, 132 graduates of Delbarton School, Morristown, received their diplomas from Benedictine Father Michael Tidd, headmaster.

The graduates also heard a commencement address from Steve Conine,

co-founder and chairman of the online retail technology company Wayfair, and a 1991 graduate of Delbarton.

Founded in 1939, Delbarton School is an independent Benedictine Catholic learning community under the direction

of the monks of St. Mary’s Abbey and their lay colleagues.

Delbarton welcomes young men in grades seven to 12 from diverse backgrounds to pursue excellence, develop leadership, and build character by edu-

Left, Delbarton School valedictorian William Li is raised up by his classmates in the fountain after graduation.

— photos courtesy of Delbarton School

JUNE 17, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Right, Benedictine Father Michael Tidd, headmaster (right), Delbarton School, poses with guest speaker, Steve Conine, a 1991 graduate and founder of Wayfair; and Benedictine Father Richard Cronin, abbott at St. Mary's Abbey.

cating the whole person: mind, body and spirit.

Each year, Delbarton offers $3.6 million in financial aid to enable qualified boys to attend the school.

Learn more at Delbarton.org.

last 14 months have been unprecedented [because of the pandemic].

If this were any other year, I would stand here and tell you that I once sat in those seats and I know exactly what you are growing through and experiencing at this moment in your life. That like you, when I started my senior year, I was excited to arrive in the Senior Hallway, and like you I was excited to finally have access to the Senior Courtyard, which made getting to class so much easier on that very short timeline between periods.

“But I, and almost every Union Catholic graduate before you, except for last year’s class, cannot say that I shared your exact experience or walked in your shoes because I will never know what it was like to have experienced the last year and a half of my time in high school during a once in a lifetime global pandemic. I will never know what it was like navigating high school virtually or with masks, or not being able to be in the same classrooms as my teachers and my classmates every single day.

“For all that you’ve overcome and endured over the past year and a half, I salute your resiliency, your patience, and your perseverance to move forward and continue to achieve great things amid so much uncertainty.”

GRADUATION

SCOTCH PLAINS — Joyous screams “Graduates, I wish you much echoed through the air and blue caps success and happiness, and may God were sent soaring toward the sun- Bless you all the days of your lives. splashed sky June 3 when Union Cath- And don’t forget to come back to UC. olic High School’s Class of 2021 made You are always welcome.’’ history by becoming the first group to Sabrina Mayor, valedictorian, graduate during a cersaid, “Over the past emony held in front four years, I believe “For all that you’ve of the school. that I’ve gained a The 200 gradu- overcome and endured good amount of wisates, whose resiliency dom. And without a was tested because over the past year and doubt, I am certain of COVID-19 or a half, I salute your re- that our Class of 2021 coronavirus, let their will have a momenemotions flow as they siliency, your patience, tous difference in the celebrated their acbecause you’ve and your perseverance world complishment with all made an indelible, classmates, family to move forward and extraordinary differand faculty. ence in me. continue to achieve Members of “Changing the Union Catholic’s world doesn’t have great things amid so Class of 1971, who to start big or right much uncertainty.” were celebrating their now. It’s okay to be 50th anniversary, confused and not —Associate Justice Fabiana were also honored know what the future Justice Pierre-Louis during the 56th anholds. All I ask is that, nual commencement while we’re accepting exercise. the things we cannot change and havIn her remarks, Mercy Sister ing courage to change the things we Percylee Hart, principal, noted: “This can, take some time to reflect. When moment in time marks your place in life is hard and it becomes difficult to Union Catholic history. Things at know the difference, spend some time Union Catholic are better, change thinking. While you’re at it, take the abounds, and advances have been long way, and don’t forget to bring a made because of you. Your presence buddy.” will be missed as you pursue your colIn her comments, Associate Juslege and career goals, but your many tice Fabiana Pierre-Louis, a member contributions will remain as a valued of UC’s Class of 1998 who last Sept. 1 testament of your talents and gifts became the first black female to serve you so generously shared with the UC on the New Jersey Supreme Court, Community. said, “It goes without saying that the

35

Union Catholic High School confers 200 diplomas at ceremony

Associate Justice Fabiana Justice PierreLouis, a 1998 graduate of Union Catholic who last summer became the first black female to serve on the New Jersey Supreme Court, speaks at graduation ceremonies.

— photo courtesy of Union Catholic High School

Congratulations Class of 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

1600 Martine Ave. Scotch Plains, NJ

Graduates of The Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C., celebrate during the school’s 132nd annual commencement ceremony at FedExField in Landover, Md., May 15.

— CNS photo/courtesy The Catholic University of America

www.unioncatholic.org

JUNE 17, 2021

Sky’s the Limit

36 GRADUATION

University holds 79th annual commencement exercises May 24 CALDWELL — Commencement was even more meaningful this year for Caldwell University graduates, who celebrated in person on the athletics field or watched via livestream from as far away as Nepal and Uganda May 24.

The graduates relished the triumph of earning their diplomas after having lived through the disruptions of COVID-19. The university’s 79thh annual commencement featured three separate ceremonies.

Caldwell President Matthew Whelan congratulated the Class of 2021 graduates for their perseverance and resilience in reaching this milestone, saying the one thing everyone has learned from the pandemic is to “expect the unexpected.”

“Do not underestimate the magnitude of what you have just accomplished, not just now, but throughout your life. To stay the course when the winds and torrential downpours of life, a monstrous storm, threatened to knock you off course, you withstood, you adjusted your sails and you were able to navigate your way through to your final destination. You’ll learn that you have to do that in life. And it is worth it. Every second is worth it,” said Whelan.

Whelan advised the graduates to “Get good at making mistakes…nearly all of the famous success stories tell a tale of countless failures...We all make mistakes. It’s what we do with them that matters…Take responsibility for them. Learn from them

and remember you are one mistake away from success.”

Quoting Nobel Laureate and novelist Toni Morrison, Whelan said, “Dream before you think.”

“If you dream before you think,” he continued, “then you are asking yourself ‘what is possible’ instead of ‘what has been possible’ and in that difference is where you will create change and change for the better.”

And he advised the graduates to remember to “Always be kind ... be kind even to those who have not been kind to you.”

At Caldwell University, “our core values -- respect, integrity, community and excellence--rely on kindness...keep those values close to you and they will serve you very well no matter where your life’s path takes you.”

Lesley Elaine Chung, West Orange High School assistant principal and dean of students, praised her fellow graduates for the momentous feat of earning their doctoral and master’s degrees during a year rocked by tragic racial injustice and mounting tensions. She pointed out how many had worked from home, juggling care for children and other family members. “This past school year taught us that we may indeed face trying times ... however with hard work and perseverance, nothing can stop us.”

She encouraged graduates to go even further in pursuing their career paths. “As

the late Kobe Bryant once said, ‘Great things come from hard work and perseverance.

No excuses.’” The West Orange resident received a Doctor of Education degree in educational leadership with a concentration in K-12 education.

Senior Keith Kirabo Kyewalabye spoke for the two undergraduate ceremonies. Quoting Julius Caesar, he said, “Veni, vidi, vici,” and gave examples of the many ways the graduates lived out that saying, which translates as “I came, I saw, I conquered.”

“We have been immersed in our core values of respect, integrity, community and excellence. We conquered!”

Marking the end of college is “truly just a beginning for something new,” Kyewalabye said, “Life, with its ebbs and flows, has given us another starting point just as we crossed the finish line.” He sent his fellow graduates out with a quote from rapper and songwriter Kendrick Lamar: “If God got us, then we gon’ be alright.”

A native of Uganda, Kyewalabye earned a Bachelor of Arts degree in biology with a minor in music and has accepted a position as a junior specialist at the University of California-San Francisco Brain Tumor Research Center.

The university presented an honorary degree to Dr. Ujwala Mulgaonkar, and posthumously to her husband, Dr. Shamkant Mulgaonkar, for their support of the School

of Nursing and Public Health. Ujwala is a retired pediatrician with more than 30 years of experience in the medical field. She graduated from Topiwala National Medical College, Mumbai, India, and completed her residency at Saint Barnabas Medical Center, an affiliate of RWJBarnabas Health, in Livingston. She has carried on her late husband’s legacy by providing philanthropic support to Caldwell University’s nursing program, establishing the Shamkant Mulgaonkar Endowed Scholarship Fund and continuing to support the Mulgaonkar Family Scholarship Fund.

In accepting the awards, Ujwala encouraged the graduates to work on kindness in their own lives.

“I know that Shamkant would want me to tell you to keep kindness in your hearts and bring kindness to others. Every day. Through every action and every word,” she said.

Shamkant was one of the preeminent professionals in transplantation in the United States. He was instrumental in the rapid growth of transplantation and championed the development of the Living Donor Transplant Institute at RWJBarnabas Health. He and his team were largely responsible for the success of the Barnabas Health Renal and Pancreas Transplant Division. Shamkant was a member of the Caldwell University Nursing Advisory Board and served as a guest lecturer on campus for nursing and public health students.

The Office of Human Life and Dignity

JUNE 17, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

ages since each stage of family life brings unique challenges to its members,” said D’Averso-Collins.

During the coronavirus pandemic —when business- “Our goal is for all participants to feel as though es were closed, schools were operating remotely, their unique needs are met and thus that they are and people were only able to see their loved ones better equipped to view each stage of life through from behind the safety of a glass windowpane — the lens of the Gospel message.”

With more than 30 talks, some of which will be everyone, it seemed, was challenged in one way or another. Family life, especially, was impacted by all included as part of the series’ Spanish track, the conference has presentations for teens, young people, the changes. single parents, newlyweds, mar“Due to the pandemic, many couples, and even for grandfamilies and couples began to “It is important for us to ried parents on how to care for their struggle with various aspects of family life,” said Allan Cabal- reach families of all ages adult children and grandchildren.

“The outpouring of support lero, director, diocesan Office of Evangelization and Office of His- since each stage of family of local and national ministries panic Evangelization. “The need life brings unique chal- has been surreal and we can see the Holy Spirit moving pieces for greater outreach and support lenges to its members. together and touching hearts,” of the families in our diocese beCaballero. “Many people came clear.”

Our goal is for all partici- said have been inspired by the conferIn response to the growing pants to feel as though ence and have decided to donate needs of families, Caballero partmake the conference available nered with Cristina D’Aversotheir unique needs are to to more families and completely Collins, director, diocesan Office of Family Life. Together they met and thus that they free for all attendees.” Freewill donations are being accepted on planned the virtual, “Joy of Love are better equipped to www.lightingheartsonfire.org. and Family Conference Series.”

The “Joy of Love and Family Individuals and families are view each stage of life Conference Series” was planned invited to the free virtual statethrough the lens of the in conjunction with the year of wide conference series, which is “Amoris Laetitia Family,” as scheduled to begin June 24.

Gospel message.” announced by Pope Francis on Being hosted by the Diocese — Cristina D’Averso-Collins March 19 — the fifth anniversary of Metuchen in partnership with of the publication of his apostolic the other Roman Catholic Arch/ exhortation by the same name.

Dioceses in the state — Newark, “Family life can be crazy at times, but when Camden, Trenton and Paterson — the mammoth effort was a joy to plan, but was certainly no easy task, Christ is at the center, families are able to see said Caballero, who added the Holy Spirit provided through the craziness and difficult moments,” said Caballero. “Amoris Laetitia, which begins with the the help and guidance they needed.

The conference series will be launched with four phrase ‘the joy of love experienced by families,’ retalks. Each week thereafter, for the next six months, minds me of the beauty of the sacrament of marriage a different talk will become available, and all will be and how blessed I am to be a father and a husband.”

Both parents and spouses themselves, respecarchived for a year for later on-demand viewing. To register for the conference series, or to view the full tively, Caballero and D’Averso-Collins said they are looking forward to the launch of the conference seschedule, visit: www.lightingheartsonfire.org.

“It is important for us to reach families of all ries, through which they hope to be renewed in their

OUR DIOCESE

By Tara Smith

37

Virtual conference series to focus on every stage of family Life

own vocations, to grow their own family culture and to educate their own young children effectively in the faith — and they hope others will join them.

According to both directors, the renewal of the family leads to the renewal of the Church. The universal Church builds upon the domestic Church and the domestic Church, in turn, powerfully influences the universal Church, added D’Averso-Collins.

“The two cannot be separated insofar as authentic faith always has both private and public elements,” she said.

“Given the variety of talks provided, we hope that families are empowered to live their faith more fully,” said D’Averso-Collins. “The witness of holy families is crucial in bringing Christ to our culture.

We pray that families are led to take seriously their call to Christian discipleship which begins by activating a vibrant culture of faith within the home.”

To learn more, to register or to donate to the Joy of Love and Family Conference Series, please visit: www.lightingheartsonfire.org.

Smith is director, diocesan Office of Communications and Public Relations

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OUR FAITH

38

Language of diplomacy?/Feeding tube?

Pope Francis

ANGELUS OF PENTECOST May 23, 2021 The book of the Acts of the Apostles (cf.

2:1-11) recounts what happens in Jerusalem 50 days after the Pasch of Jesus.

The disciples were gathered in the Upper Room, and the Virgin Mary was with them. The Risen Lord had told them to remain in the city until they received the gift of the Spirit from on High. And this was revealed with a “sound” they suddenly heard come from heaven, like the “rush of a mighty wind” that filled the house they were in (cf. v. 2). Thus, it concerns a real but also symbolic experience. Something that happened but also gives us a symbolic message for our whole life.

This experience reveals that the Holy Spirit is like a strong and freely flowing wind; that is, he brings us strength and brings us freedom: a strong and freely flowing wind. He cannot be controlled, stopped, nor measured; nor can his direction be foreseen. He cannot be understood within our human exigencies – we always try to frame things – he does not let himself be framed in our methods and our preconceptions. The Spirit proceeds from God the Father and from his Son Jesus Christ and bursts upon the Church; he bursts upon each one of us, giving life to our minds and our hearts. As the Creed states: he is “the Lord, the giver of life.”

He has power because he is God, and he gives life.

According to the website of the Jesuit magazine “America,” there was, in fact, an interpreter present. America said in its report on the March 6 meeting that “the two leaders of Christianity and Shia Islam sat beside a small wooden table and spoke with the assistance of the pope’s Palestinian-born translator.”

I am happy, though, that you have called our readers’ attention to this important meeting in the cause of peace.

The 90-year-old grand ayatollah is a revered and highly influential leader in Iraq, where more than 60 percent of Muslims are Shiites.

The Vatican noted that the meeting had given Pope Francis a chance to

My 83-year-old sister has had dementia for many years. Now she is not eating regularly and seems to have no appetite. I was told that this is a sign that the end of life is nearing. As we are both Catholics, am I obligated to have her on life support and to begin tube feeding? I don't believe she would want this, and neither do I. (Long Island, N.Y.) Whether a feeding tube is required depends on the patient’s circumstances. The “Catechism of the Catholic Church” reflects that teaching: “Discontinuing medical procedures that are burdensome, dangerous, extraordinary or disproportionate to the expected

outcome can be legitimate” (No. 2278).

The general principle, as enunciated by St. John Paul II in a 2004 talk to the International Federation of Catholic Medical Associations and the Pontifical Academy for Life, is that artificial nutrition and hydration are, in principle, ordinary and proportionate measures and should be given to patients, even those who are in a persistent vegetative state.

And so, nutrition and hydration should be provided to a terminally ill patient whose death does not appear to be imminent.

The Church’s point is that patients should die because of the underlying pathology and not because they are starved to death. But that principle can be overridden in particular situations; tube feeding would not be morally obligatory when it brings discomfort and pain to a person who is imminently dying or when the patient's body cannot assimilate it.

In your own situation, my view — from a distance — is that, if your sister is close to death, you are not under any obligation to begin tube feeding.

An additional consideration, in your case, is that patients with dementia sometimes pull tubes out and might need to be restrained in order to be fed.

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

After the death of my dad, I wanted to do something special to honor him. It was then that I was given the chance to write a weekly column entitled “Things My Father Taught Me.”

children, and what it was like for my husband, I think of the quote from author Frank Pittman: “Fathering is not something perfect men do, but something that perfects the man.”

I am blessed to have watched the process with my sons and their children, as well. It is a wondrous thing to see how the love of a child transforms a new father in baby steps, in some cases, and, in leaps and bounds in others, especially when there is a crisis.

This has been the case for my oldest son, whose youngest child is medically compromised and spent the first six months of his life in a children’s hospital, with seven surgical procedures before his first birthday.

His homecare includes intravenous nutrition, day and night nurses, and constant monitoring for health issues that can send him back to the hospital at a moment’s notice.

This past week has been one of those times. My daughter-in-law took a photo of my grandson, all of 19 months old, standing in his bed in his child’s hospital gown with my son sitting next to him, waiting to be taken to surgery. He is reaching out to his dad, touching his chest, a look of worry and apprehension on his little face. My son is looking into his eyes, arm around his waist, undoubtedly assuring him without words that everything will be fine. The exchange was priceless, and I bawled my eyes out.

What stood out in that single image was the most important virtue of father-

hood — presence.

A father’s presence is the blessed assurance we sing about in Mass. Presence is what we need when we say to our Father, “Hold my hand, lest I fall.” When a child grows up with this presence, there is a greater likelihood the child will eventually grow to understand what it means to live in the Presence of God. Divine Presence is the love that allows a father to grow into the courageous protector, the mentor, the example that all children need. There is no more important example than modeling for a child what it means to love and enabling them to feel safe.

In his Apostolic Letter, “Patris Corde, With a Father’s Heart,” Pope Francis observes, “Fathers are not born, but made.

A man does not become a father simply by bringing a child into the world, but by taking up the responsibility to care for that child. Whenever a man accepts responsibility for the life of another, in some way he becomes a father to that person.”

And so it was with St. Joseph, the father to whom God entrusted his only son. Pope Francis describes Joseph as a father who “found happiness not in mere self-sacrifice but in self-gift. In him, we never see frustration but only trust. His patient silence was the prelude to concrete expressions of trust.”

St. Joseph lived confidently in the presence of God, knowing the love that makes every vocation, especially fatherhood, possible.

When the Holy Father and Ayatollah al-Sistani met recently, at the end they stood facing each other and seemed to be talking without an interpreter. What language did they use in order to communicate?

(Powhatan, Va.)

Q

Question Corner

By Father Kenneth Doyle

A

JUNE 17, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Q

A

Fatherhood requires living in presence

Prayer for those who live alone I live alone, dear Lord, stay by my side in all my needs, be my constant guide.

Grant me good health, for that I pray, to continue my work each and every day.

Keep pure my mind, my thoughts and deeds. Help me to be kind, and to assist Others in need. Save me from harm and hateful tongues, from pain and fear And evil ones. When I am sick, in need of care, O Lord, I pray, You will be near.

When I feel down or I’m in despair, lift up my heart and hear my prayer. I live Alone, dear Lord, yet have no fear, because I know that You are near. Amen.

thank the ayatollah and the Iraqi Shiite community, which “raised their voices in defense of the weakest and the persecuted, affirming the sacredness of human life and the importance of the unity of the Iraqi people” during the 2014-17 offensive of the Islamic State militants in which Christians suffered heavily.

After meeting with Pope Francis, the ayatollah said that the meeting served as an example of the importance of world leaders holding powerful nations to account and calling on them “to give priority to reason and wisdom (and) to reject the language of war.”

About a year after the column was first published, a workshop participant came to me at the end of the day to tell me how much she loved the column. “Sadly,” she said, “not everyone has a father like yours.”

She shared that her father was an angry man and sometimes abusive. She loved him but she was often afraid of him. She suggested that, perhaps, I could consider that when writing my column. I thanked her for her honesty and for her suggestion.

After that, every time I wrote a column, I thought about what she said and tried to be sensitive with how and what I wrote, but the truth is it’s difficult to write from someone else’s experiences. The best I could do was try to help both moms and dads understand the beauty and value of their vocations, and how much they mean to the children who love them.

After all, there are no perfect parents.

Remembering back to the first of our six

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Lesson on Christian discipleship

SCRIPTURE STUDY

By Msgr. John N. Fell Our first reading from the Book of Job prepares us to recognize the greatness of Jesus’ miracle. Having endured the questioning of Job and the hapless theories of his friends, the Lord God thunders forth a series of questions designed to emphasize his divine grandeur and Job’s human lowliness. The Lord said, “Who shut within doors the sea . . . and said, thus far shall you come but no farther, and here shall your proud waves be stilled?” (Jb 38:8,11). In this particular section of the Book of Job, God stresses his own power over creation — only God can calm the raging sea.

St. Mark sets this Gospel in the evening just as Jesus and his disciples decide to cross the Sea of Galilee. Ringed by mountains, Galilee is subject to sudden, intense storms. One such storm broke during this crossing. This storm must have been especially violent as it aroused such great fear among these followers, many of whom were fishermen by trade. As the waves buffeted them and the boat filled with water, the disciples panicked (in the words of Psalm 107, “their hearts melted away in their plight”) and ran to Jesus who was sleeping in the stern. Once aroused, Jesus immediately commanded the wind and the sea, “Quiet! Be still!”

(Mk 4:39). In doing so, Jesus fulfilled the words of the psalmist, “They cried to the Lord in their distress . . . the Lord hushed the storm to a gentle breeze and the billows of the sea were stilled” (Ps 107:28).

The people of Jesus’ day saw the raging sea as a sign of demonic activity. In Jesus’ ordering the sea to be calm, St. Mark uses the same Greek word that Jesus used in Mark 1:25 when he expelled the demon from the man at Capernaum. This particular word signifies not only a rebuke, but in the extra-biblical literature of the day was also used to indicate a spell cast upon a demon rendering him unable to harm others. In any case, this miracle clearly stands out as a sign of Jesus’ power over the forces of evil in nature.

In the midst of the storm, the fearful disciples

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE

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Wed 30 Thurs 1

2 Cor 11:18, 21-30 / Ps 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7 / Mt 6:19-23 2 Cor 12:1-10 / Ps 34:8-9, 10-11, 12-13 / Mt 6:24-34 Jb 38:1, 8-11 / Ps 107:23-24, 25-26, 28-29, 30-31 / 2 Cor 5:14-17 / Mk 4:35-41 Gn 12:1-9 / Ps 33:12-13, 18-19, 20 and 22 / Mt 7:1-5 Gn 13:2, 5-18 / Ps 15:2-3a, 3bc-4ab, 5 / Mt 7:6, 12-14 Gn 15:1-12, 17-18 / Ps 105:1-2, 3-4, 6-7, 8-9 / Mt 7:15-20 Jer 1:4-10 / 1 Pt 1:8-12 / Ps 71:1-2, 3-4a, 5-6ab, 15ab and 17 / Lk 1:5-17 (Vigil) and 49:1-6 / Ps 139:1b-3, 13-14ab, 14c15 / Acts 13:22-26 / Lk 1:57-66, 80 (Day) Gn 17:1, 9-10, 15-22 / Ps 128:1-2, 3, 4-5 / Mt 8:1-4 Gn 18:1-5 / Lk 1:46-47, 48-49, 50 and 53, 54-55 / Mt 8:5-17 Wis 1:13-15; 2:23-24 / Ps 30:2, 4, 5-6, 11, 12, 13 / 2 Cor 8:7, 9, 13-15 / Mk 5:21-43 or 5:21-24, 35b-43 Gn 18:16-33 / Ps 103:1b-2, 3-4, 8-9, 10-11 / Mt 8:18-22 (Vigil) 3:1-10 / Ps 19:2-3, 4-5 / Gal 1:11-20 / Jn 21:15-19 (Day) Acts 12:1-11 / 2 Tm 4:6-8, 17-18 / Ps 34:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 / Mt 16:13-19 Gn 21:5, 8-20a / Ps 34:7-8, 10-11, 12-13 / Mt 8:28-34 Gn 22:1b-19 / Ps 115:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 8-9 / Mt 9:1-8

Gospel for June 20, 2021 Mark 4:35-41

Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the 12th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle B: a storm on the Sea of Galilee. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

ON THAT DAY CROSS THE STERN TEACHER WOKE UP CEASED FILLED

EVENING OTHER SIDE CUSHION CARE REBUKED CALM GREAT AWE

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I W T L D W O R C Y © 2021 TRI-C-A Publications; tri-c-a-publications.com

JUNE 17, 2021

Mon 28 Tues 29

FRIDAY, JUNE 18 - TUESDAY, THURSDAY JULY 1

SCRIPTURE SEARCH®

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Fri 18 Sat 19 Sun 20 Mon 21 Tues 22 Wed 23 Thurs 24

confront Jesus, “Teacher, do you not care that we are perishing?” (Mk 4:38). This is basically the same question Job had been asking the Lord prior to the incident recalled in our first reading — why didn’t the Lord seem to be more active in relieving the suffering of his people. Both God the Father in the Old Testament and Jesus in the New answer their interrogators with a question. Jesus chastises the disciples, “Why are you terrified? Do you not yet have faith?” (Mk 4:40). Jesus’ tone belies his disappointment with his followers — after all the time he had already spent with them, and after all the signs he had given them, their faith in him was still pretty weak. The ongoing failure of the disciples to understand Jesus and his mission is a basic theme of St. Mark’s Gospel.

St. Mark uses both the terror of these disciples and the fact of Jesus’ coming to their rescue as teaching examples. Writing for the early Christian community, St. Mark is encouraging them to remain stalwart in their faith despite whatever trials they might face. St. Mark emphasizes that God’s plan might not always be evident to human eyes, but that, in the end, God’s saving work will always triumph over the forces which seek to devastate his people. This Gospel serves as a lesson on Christian discipleship in times of difficulty. The true disciple, both in St. Mark’s era and in our own, is cautioned to remain firm in his or her faith in Jesus, lest they too become the object of the stinging rebuke, “Do you not yet have faith?” For it is this faith that assures us that no matter what storms we might face, and storms are often part of the Christian landscape, there is no force in heaven or on earth that can sweep us away from God’s unconditional love and protecting might.

If we need further convincing that Almighty God will always come to the aid of his beloved sons and daughters, we need to simply think of this Sunday’s observance of Father’s Day. Just as those early disciples had concrete proof of God’s ongoing care for them in the activity of Jesus, so too do we have that abiding assurance of God’s care in the love that we receive from our fathers. Their nurturing goodness and protecting concern are principal means by which God comes into each of our lives; their example makes visible in our lives all the good that we hope for in the teaching and example of Jesus. To the Lord — and to our dads — we give thanks.

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

OUR FAITH

12th Sunday of Ordinary Time (B)

“Who can this be that the wind and the sea obey him?” (Mk 4:41). The disciples’ question highlights their unbounded amazement at Jesus and the miracles he worked. This Sunday’s Gospel presents the great miracle of Jesus calming of the sea, demonstrating his authority even over the powerful forces of nature. St. Mark also uses this Gospel to shore up the faith of the early Christian community during their time of trials.

40 26 STEPPING FORWARD IN CHARITY STEPPING UP IN CHARITY

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The family post fell intoabout arrears Saturday: 9:30 am – 12 noon Charities, of Metuchen, paying their Diocese rent causing Marine’s special pleawhich foris Valentine’s will cover Mary’s eight of our core values to prevent homelessClosed Sunday, Monday & Holidays thesupported by the Bishop's Annual Appeal, of rental and ness and keep families together.” management comwishes, she gathered her colleagues “It is programs like months takes to heart by connecting mentothis fileverse for eviction, utility arrears. In addiMCERAP is a rental assistance proRt. 22 & Terrill Road, Watchung, NJ 07069 pany Hatchery Elementary School, torsatwith youth the whofamcanHill use athese friend.

What further spinning that help us tion, Mary’s case will be gram designed to provide financial ashavecrisis. found is and that what starts out Hackettstown, organized a project evaluated for future tem- sistance and relief in the form of a grant ilyparticipants into financial fulfi ll our as Fortunately, a way to give youth a helping hand, often mission, Cathofor friendships the children in the by Catholic Chari- porary rental assistance. to low- and moderate-income households thatofare treasured the ective of liccreates Charities, Diocese As communities living in a rental unit in Middlesex Counand are refl ties’theafter school care program to in the counties served ty that are unable to pay rent and utilities youths, mentors and their child families alike.

Metuchen (CCDOM), Since 1994,tothethe Connections ourProgram core values to by Catholic Charities – because of COVID-19. living Marine’s whichrespond is supported by oldest paired Annual adult volunteers with youth in Middlesex, Somerset, Last year, CCDOM provided more thehas Bishop’s Aprequest. prevent Middlesex County from ages 5 to 17. homelessIt Hunterdon and Warren – than 160,000 hours of service to residents peal, was able to assist Maj. Bill White, World War II begin to open up from the of Hunterdon, Middlesex, Somerset and startedwho from pairing 14 matches to asamany Mary, requested ness and keep as 65 mentors paired with youth each year. recipient, restrictions caused by the Warren counties. veteran and Purple Heart anonymity for the story, families together.with ” COVID-19 or coronaviin the program are more likely to in Youth staying in her home For more information about MCERshared his wish during an interview 2400 B Cooper Street develop positive behaviors and continue —Julio Coto rus pandemic, people are with her child.

AP, including requirements, and 95 West Main St. Suite 5-106 KTXL-TV in Sacramento, Calif., and comforted to finally see how to submiteligibility schooling, Throughwhich a changes grant their lives. The an application, please visit Piscataway, NJ 08854 friendship between the youth and theHe menthebyrequest went viral. told the tele- families and friends who www.middlesexcountynj.gov/rentalasfunded the Middlesex Chester, NJ 07930 www.ourladyoftenderness.com County torsvision tends to form quickly, but over time an have been isolated for so long. However, sistance or call Catholic Charities at (732) Emergency Rentalone Assistance hosts that ofandhis favorite hobeven deeper bond is Catholic established they the financial road to recovery for many 324-8200 to speak to a case manager. www.ourladyoftenderness.com Program (MCERAP), Charities bies is scrapbooking, has helped often become secondcase family to thewhich child. families continues to be long and arduprovided Marya with management For more information about CathoAccording to the program’s website, him to keep track of his extensive life.

Your prayer requests are welcomed and services to assist her in navigating the ous. lic Charities’ programs and services, criteria get mentor are: Now he awanted to experiencing addbring some Valentine “We are pleased to partner with pro- please visit www.ccdom.org. totoobtain assistance and Yourencouraged. prayer requests They are shallwelcomed be placedand before the system significant and/or terminal medical difficulto ahis collection of mementos.

Jeanette Cullen, a member of St. Bartholomew Parish, East Brunswick, has served tiescards for which positive adult relationship Blessed Sacrament lifted daily encouraged.

They shalland be placed beforein prayer. the supervisor of the Connections Program at Catholic Charities, Diocese of from outside of the word family would helpful; Once got beout aboutas White’s Metuchen, since 2000. The 26-year-old program pairs adult volunteers with youth fi nding themselves in serious situational/ request, staff and children from BeneBlessed Sacrament andHermitage lifted dailyisinGod’ prayer.

The ministry of this s gift, loss crisis (i.e., but not limited to divorce or in Middlesex County from ages 5 to 18.

— Joanne Kleinle photo dict isA. Cucinella School, a parent dying/just deceased)Elementary and a helpChildren in the Catholic Charities' after school child c a life of prayer, freely given to our diocese fulLong adult relationship Valley,is needed. and Willow Grove ElThe ministry of this Hermitage is God’s gift, Hatchery Hill Elementary School, Hackettstown, basketball or share a meal. advice or support. The program also hosts send t Kathy McCrystal said she startedwith as for you. Please accept this free gift. It is a ementary School joined Hatchery McCrystal spends about four hours quarterlyWar mentor nights. a life of prayer, freely given to our diocese a mentor when her twin boys were teenMajor Bill White, a World II support veteran and Purple Heart Hill and together they sent three large a week with the boys depending on what Jeanette Cullen, a member of St. — Bar-photo co privilege to be united with you in prayer. agers. She was paired with a boy close in for you. Please accept this free gift. It is a activities they plan.

She looks forward to tholomew Parish, East Brunswick, where ageenvelopes to her sons because she thought menfull of hand-made Valentine her time with them and loves watching she serves as an extraordinary minister of toring would be awishes wayto to engage cards and honorherWhite and to privilege unitedthatwithI amyouGod. in prayer.

Be stilltoandbeknow - Psalm 46:10 own boys. She gotgreat much more than she them grow and mature into teenagers. They holy Communion and in its Society of St. support toabout Maj.their White anddewe all rebring The love joy to the retired Marine. often talk to her Vincent Paulare chapter, has beenchild supervi-care for expected. boyand became Prayer Request: and sheofgives sor of theitConnections Program since 2000. distric school minded howthem important is to provide close to her family, “We arewhole so thrilled about the cases, response issues “In many Be ____________________________ still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 whatever guidance she can.

She sees the impact it has not only on the participating in traditions and recognition to those who have served Somerset ___ we received from the we school Mentors must un- the youth, but on the mentors and families. put district,” the like her in-laws annual New For more our country.” saidEveChild Care Service Area Director dergo rigorous screening “The program is not meant to replace the Prayer Request: Year’s party, decorating _________________________ back interview Last and background parents,Charities, but to give support,” said. “In child year, Catholic Dio- sheCharities’ theKrista ChristmasGlynn. tree and go“The childhood staff and children _______________________________ checks before they receive many cases, we put the childhood back in ingwere on an annual Easter egg in the child’s cese of Metuchen provided affordable ccdom.org/chil so excited to send their lovelifeand training and continue to the child’s life by offering the fun activities hunt. She even took him on by offering the _________________________ receive training after they and support that his or her family cannot college tours with her own give them.” sons. They grew so close fun activities and begingTheserving.

THE program sponsors Cullen treasures witnessing the lifewhen he aged Day out May of 6, Father John P. Alvarado, pastor, Church of the Onthat National Prayer monthly group activities — changing impact that the mentors have on support that their the program, she agreed to Sacred Heart, South Plainfield, led a prayer service and dedicated a dogwood usually in person, but She they the youth. She said one child, whose parents THE mentor his younger brothers memorial tree on the side lawn families of Sacred Heart Church to Marlene Petriello. cannot have been held virtually be- were day laborers, came into the program andanthey now class participate in and volunteer at Holy Savior Academy was alumni parent who the Home cause the coronavirus — wanting to be a day laborer. After spending McCrystal family traditions them. ” School Association community lost give this year to COVID-19 or theofcoronavirus. mentorsHeart and Academy the youth. time with his mentor, he realized other posjust like their brother did.

— photo courtesyfor of Sacred —Jeanette Cullen Through these trainings and sibilities that were open to him. He started Most of the activities activities, McCrystal has to plan to go to college and become a busithat she does with the boys also formed close friendships with other nessman and travel. He also changed his are simple. Because of the recent lockdown mentors. diet to more healthy choices. related to the coronavirus, she takes them for Case managers are in touch with menFor information about becoming a a walk or buys them ice cream. They also Carly eighth-grader at St. John School, Colonia, holds a tors Vianney two to five times each month and are mentor, contact Jeanette Cullen at jcullen@ shareMcKinney, her love ofan biking and hiking. Someframed certifi cate she atreceived winningday the or Woodbridge night by phoneTownship if they need ccdom.org or (732) 738-1323. times they want to visit her housefor andrecently play available Historic Preservation Commission Essay Contest for the best essay on Woodbridge.

JUNE 17, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT AUGUST 20, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

OurLady Ladyof ofTenderness Tenderness Our

“Come follow me”

C atholic Spirit C Is God calling you

(Mark 10:21) atholic Spirit

to serve as a priest, deacon, July religious 22 sister or brother?

If you think maybe...

Deep Roots

Winning Words

— photo courtesy of Thomas Cunningham

Journey of Faith

By Father John Gerard Hillier

of the first creation, has been replaced by Sunday which recalls the new creation inaugurated by the Resurrection of Christ” (ccc 2190).

Sunday is also the day that the Holy Spirit descended upon the apostles. The change from Saturday to Sunday as the Lord’s Day was made by the apostles, whom Christ had appointed. This change made it crystal clear that Christianity was not a mere Jewish sect, but a new and distinct religion based on the revelation of Christ. “It symbolizes the new creation ushered in by Christ’s Resurrection. For Christians it has become the first of all days, the first of all feasts, the Lord’s Day (he kuriake hemera, dies dominica) Sunday” (ccc 2174).

Finally, the Catechism puts forth in a positive way the following challenge to help us cease and desist unnecessary labor on the Lord’s Day: “In respecting religious liberty and the common good of all, Christians should seek recognition of Sundays and the Church’s holy days as legal holidays. They have to give everyone a public example of prayer, respect, and joy and defend their traditions as a precious contribution to the spiritual life of society” (ccc 2188).

Father Hillier serves as Director of the Office of the Pontifical Mission Societies, the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Censor Librorum

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

You’ve likely heard the children’s nursery rhyme with the strange lyrics: “Three blind mice...See how they run...They all ran after the farmer’s wife...She cut off their tails with a carving knife ...” I recall as a child asking my mom the meaning of these strange words. She immediately explained that “the farmer’s wife wanted the mice to cease and desist, just as I want you to cease and desist...your roughhousing on the Lord’s Day when you should be getting ready for Mass!”

Although not the most eloquent image to introduce the Third Commandment, the nursery rhyme underscores the intense sentiments of the wife wanting the mice to cease and desist just as the Commandment asks that we cease and desist in our workrelated duties on the Sabbath, especially manual labor, and that we spend time in both private and public prayer. The words of the Third Commandment: “Remember the Sabbath day — keep it holy. Six days you shall labor, and do all your work; but the seventh day is a Sabbath of the Lord your God. You shall not do any work…”

(Ex 20:8-10).

The Jews devoted the Sabbath to God as a way to honor His creation and His delivery of them from bondage in Egypt.

The Catechism explains: “the Sabbath is... for the praise of God, his work of creation, and his saving actions on behalf of Israel” (ccc 2171). Further, if God “rested and was refreshed” on the seventh day, we too ought to “rest” and should let others, especially the poor, “be refreshed” (ccc 2172). Thus, we see a relationship here between the dignity of the Lord’s Day and the dignity we extend to the poor by our acts of charity.

Christ Himself healed the sick on the Sabbath. In fact, “Jesus never fails to respect the holiness of this day. He gives this law its authentic and authoritative

interpretation: ‘The Sabbath was made service of the sick, the infirm, and the elfor man, not man for the Sabbath’” (Mk derly. Christians will also sanctify Sunday 2:27) (ccc 2173). Here, Jesus reminds by devoting time and care to their famithe Pharisees of their hypocrisy as they lies and relatives, often difficult to do on sought to omit even other days of the week. necessary works on the Sunday is a time for We should devote Sabbath, including acts reflection, silence, cultiSunday to prayer, of charity. vation of the mind, and Only work that meditation which furto spiritual reading, is truly unnecessary is thers the growth of the and to acts of charprohibited on Sunday in Christian interior life” order that we may have (ccc 2186). Therefore, ity like the spiritual time to worship God we should make all of and to obtain the proper Sunday truly the Lord’s and corporal works rest necessary for the Day. Besides attending of mercy...engage in performance of our Mass, we should devote duties throughout the Sunday to prayer, to family prayer, espeweek. We can sanctify spiritual reading, and cially with children, this work by offering it to acts of charity like for God’s greater honor spiritual and corand store up spiritual the and glory. “The Sabbath poral works of mercy. brings everyday work energy to strengthen We should also engage to a halt and provides in family prayer, espeus in the service of a respite. It is a day of cially with children, and protest against the serstore up spiritual energy God throughout vitude of work and the to strengthen us in the the week. worship of money” (ccc service of God through2172). out the week.

Some ask why we do not follow the Another question arises: Why did letter of the law regarding this Command- Christians replace the traditional “Sabment. The quick answer is that if ALL bath,” which is the seventh day of the work came to a halt on the Lord’s Day, week or Saturday, with the first day of then our country (or world) would like- the week or Sunday? The answer: “The wise come to a halt. “Traditional activities Sabbath, which represents the completion [sport, restaurants, etc.], and social necessities [public services, etc.], require some people to work on Sundays, but everyone should still take care to set aside sufficient time for leisure.” The Catechism counsels: “public authorities should ensure citizens a time intended for rest and divine worship. Employers have a similar obligation toward their employees” (ccc 2187).

We fulfill our strict Lord’s Day obligation by participating in Sunday Mass.

St. John Chrysostom, Early Church Father and Doctor of the Church, writes: “You cannot pray at home as at church, where there is a great multitude, where exclamations are cried out to God as from one great heart, and where there is something more: the union of minds, the accord of souls, the bond of charity, the prayers of the priests.”

But, we should not be satisfied with performing only our minimum duty on the Lord’s Day. The Catechism explains: Meeting all the state’s “Sunday is traditionally consecrated by Christian piety to good works and humble infection control

requirements for senior living communities Call and ask how we keep your loved one safe in our care

732-902-4200 Parkerlife.org |

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FAITH ALIVE

Article 151 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 2168-2195

41

Lord’s Day means more than duty to worship at Mass

By Christina Leslie Correspondent METUCHEN – “This is a sad and tragic time,” said Bishop James F. Checchio to the mournful congregation gathered May 19 for the funeral Mass for Ngu “Peter” Quoc Tran. “He was a joyful, courageous and generous young man who came to these shores and the diocese to serve.”

Tran, a native of Vietnam and firstyear seminarian, died May 12 as a result of a hit-and-run accident in New York City. He was 29.

Hundreds gathered at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi to pray for and pay tribute to Tran. The silver casket containing his earthly remains was flanked by priests of the diocese vested in white and Tran’s fellow seminarians in black. Members of the parishes where he had served, and faculty and staff of Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology, Seton Hall University, South Orange, sat shoulder to shoulder in the rear pews.

Bridging the distance between the Tran’s native country and his new American home, Father Peter Tran, pastor, Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish, South Plainfield, and coordinator of the diocesan Vietnamese Apostolate, extended his condolences in the Vietnamese language via a livestream link to his family and friends.

Msgr. Joseph R. Reilly, rector and dean of Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology, `gave the homily from the ambo, beneath which hung a large picture of Peter’s smiling face.

“I, too, mourn the loss of a beloved brother,” Msgr Reilly admitted. “While we may find ourselves stuck in between heaven and earth in the midst of grief, loss and pain, our faith in God rises to the surface and lifts all of us up.”

The rector recalled how, upon learning of Tran’s death, the seminarians had gathered for Mass and recitation of the rosary, then shared their recollections of their brief time with their deceased classmate. One by one, the men detailed how Tran had fed them when they were hungry, shared his hat and gloves when it was cold, tutored them in Greek and took them fishing. His gestures manifested Jesus Christ for them, Msgr. Reilly stated.

“At the center of Peter’s life was his relationship with Jesus Christ,” he continued. “He was a beautiful man with deep faith, keen intellect and a heart for service.

Sadly, Peter was not given the time on earth to fulfill all of his heart’s desires, but we need to trust in God’s mercy and love.”

Msgr. Reilly told the seminarians “even in your grief and loss” you have been “so kind and considerate to each other and me. It makes me proud; in you I

already see a priestly heart.”

The monsignor concluded his homily with the words of St. Cyril of Jerusalem.

“The Spirit comes with the tenderness of a true friend and protector to save, to heal, to teach, to counsel, to strengthen to console,” he said. “We pray, ‘Come Holy Spirit, Come.’ Carry Peter safely home to heaven and grant him rest with you for eternity.”

Born in An Giang Province in southern Vietnam, Tran was one of six children of Khai Quang Tran and Bich Thi Ngoc.

He graduated with a bachelor’s degree in English literature from the University of An Giang in 2016 and worked as an English teacher. Tran also taught English, mathematics, Scripture and Catholic studies to students in need.

Tran arrived in the United States August 2017, and lived at the St. John Vianney Home of Discernment, Highland Park. In spring 2018, Tran began pretheology studies in St. Vincent Seminary, Latrobe, Pa., and continued his formation to the priesthood at Immaculate Conception Seminary in 2019.

In the Diocese of Metuchen, as a seminarian Tran served summer assignments in Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish; St. James the Less Parish, Jamesburg; St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, Bridgewater, and the Parish of the Visitation,

Above is a photo of Nu Quoc “Peter” Tran that was displayed at his funeral Mass.

New Brunswick.

In a letter addressed to the diocese dated May 12, Bishop Checchio called Tran’s death “immense … and insufferable without our Catholic faith.”

Noting he was a prayerful and loving person always at the service of others, the bishop continued, “From every interaction with Peter, even from his application to become a seminarian for our diocese, it was evident that he had a strong friendship with Jesus Christ, a great devotion to the Blessed Sacrament, and a love for our Blessed Mother.”

42 JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

OUR DIOCESE

‘Peter’ Tran, seminarian for diocese, mourned at funeral Mass

Clockwise from above: A seminarian prays at the casket holding the remains of Nu Quoc “Peter” Tran, a seminarian for the diocese, before a funeral Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, May 19. Clergy and seminarians line up to receive the body of Tran, who died May 12 as a result of a hit-and-run accident in New York City. Father Peter Tran, pastor, Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish, South Plainfield, and coordinator of the diocesan Vietnamese Apostolate, extends his condolences in the Vietnamese language via a livestream link to Tran’s family in Vietnam. Bishop James F. Checchio incenses the casket of Tran. Congregants at the funeral Mass listen to the homily.

— Mike Ehrmanm photos

The Knights of Columbus Council 6930, June 27, 1-4 p.m. — The Knights of Co- Our Lady of Lourdes, Whitehouse Station, lumbus Council 9199, Our Lady of Peace is holding a 50/50 raffle to raise the money Parish, Fords is sponsoring a “St. Patrick’s needed to support its charitable endeavors.

Day In June” at the OLP Parish Center, 25 Because of the pandemic restrictions since Franklin Ave, Edison. It is take-out only. 2000, it was unable to hold its usual fundCost is $15 per meal: corned beef, cabbage, raisers. The goal is $15,000. Tickets are $10.

Irish soda bread and dessert. For informa- There will be three winning tickets: First place will receive 25 percent of the gross; tion, call Rich Fetzer at (732) 822-4957. second place will receive 15 percent and third place will receive 10 percent. The winning July 3 — The Knights of Columbus Council Bishop James F. Checchio recently visited the Augustinian Recollect Nuns at their ticketsare willMother be pulled at 1 p.m.

25 at the 7250, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, is hosting monastery in Belvidere. Posing with the bishop Beatriz (left),June superior; Council’s annual golf outing at High Bridge theMother “Back With A general Bang!” Milltown 4ththe of Federation of Mexico who lives in Mexico Rosita, superior of Hills Golf Club.

To buy tickets before then, JulyCity; In Person 5K and a One Mile Fun Run and Mother Guadalupe, secretary and former general superior. contact Bill of Murphy wkmurphy@att.net — photo courtesy Bishopat James F. Checchio in accordance with COVID-19 restrictions.

The Fun Run starts at 7:30 a.m.; the 5K run or (908) 500-2999. Make checks payable to: starts at 8 a.m. A Virtual 5K Race is avail- Knights of Columbus Council 6930.

Fundraisers

Pastoral Visit

JUNE 17, 2021

34 OUR DIOCESE THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Lia Acosta, who will be a senior at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, in the fall, speaks at the Hope Through Education Spring Luncheon.

Ciechanowski Funeral Home, Runnemede.

Memorial contributions in Sister Aurelia’s memory may9.be sent to the able from June 27 to July Participants in Little Servant Sisters, Provincialate, the virtual run can complete a 5K (3.1 miles) 1000 Cropwell Road, Cherry Hill, NJ wherever they choose to complete run/walk.

08003 Event fees: $30, 5K In-person race and a collectible T-Shirt for registration on or before July 2; $35 per person for registrations after July 2. $10, One Mile Fun Run (registration ends July 2 11:59 a.m.). $25, Virtual 5k race (registration ends July 3 at 8 a.m.). $10, Virtual One Mile Fun Run (registration ends July 3, 8 a.m.). Proceeds support many local and area charities, organizations and community programs.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

UARY 25, 2021

OBITUARY

of Canterbury, Kendall Park; St. Francis, Metuchen; St. Ambrose, and St. Thomas the Apostle, Old Bridge; Perth Amboy Catholic and Saints Philip and James, Phillipsburg; St. Ann, Raritan Borough; Our Lady of Victories and St. Stanislaus Sayreville; St. Poland.

BeginningKostka, in 1972, she served Matthias, Somerset; Immaculate Concepas a teacher and principal at three eltion, Somerville; Savior Academy, ementary schoolsHoly in New Jersey.

SouthShe Plainfield; Immaculate Conception, also served as superior at St. Spotswood; andHouse, St. James, Woodbridge.

John Retreat Atlantic City.

Schools seeking to partner with Hope Sister Aurelia was committed to Through Education submit anOpen applicaprayer and to her may community. to tion to join theministry Hope Alliance of Schools.

If people, her in Poland was in the time schools of communism. approved, will be notified and added her new world to theIn approved school list. of New Jersey, she For endeared herself tovisit herthestudents more information, organiand had the gift of hospitality.

She zation’s website: www.hopethrougheducatioloved helping the poor and gardening. nusa.org.

A funeral Mass was celebrated for Sister Aurelia Feb. DIOCESE 13 at the ProAROUND THE vincialate Chapel.

Spirituality Interment was at St. Joseph’s July 10, 11 a.m. to 4Landing. p.m. — A “Women’s Cemetery, Chews Spiritual Spa Day” held at the Arrangements will werebe handled by Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer, Watchung. The day will include various forms of prayer and mindfulness meditation.

Participants will practice breathing techniques, gentle movement, eating, walking, art and journaling. Lunch is included. Cost is $50-$60 (as you are able). Presenter is Isabel Gachko. Mail registration fee to: Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer, 1651 US Highway 22, Watchung, NJ 07069

OUR DIOCESE

ren counties and be entering kindergarten to 12th grade in September; the student must be enrolled in an approved private or parochial Since 2018, students in the Diocese of values-based school; and the application and Metuchen have been able to receive financial all supporting required documentation must submitted

by March 31. Woodbridge. support from Hope Through Education, a be Joseph Nursing Center, As nonprofit organization that provides economSheHope had Through been a Education member receives of the applications from families of children in ically disadvantaged children with the tuition Sister M. Aurelia Jackiewicz, 85, a community at the Provincialate, Cherneed, the applications are processed through assistance necessary to attend academically devoted religious of the Little Servant ry Hill, since 2013. verification service FACTS excellent, values-based schools. Conception an income Sisters of the Immaculate Baptized Halina, shecalled entered the & Aid Assessment.

In years 2020, who Hopeserved Through for 66 as aEducation teacher Grant congregation in 1955,Once and applications professed verified and distributed $747,436 to previously and principal at Our Lady of approved Lourdes are herincome perpetual vows inranked 1962. by Sheincome, was a neediest trained top 10 percent of the applicants School,asMilltown, died Feb. 8 underat St. the dedicated religious educator in schools tuition assistance for 394 privileged children. Of the senior high school are selected.

Tuition assistance is awarded on a needsHope Scholars last year, 100 percent graduated and 97 percent went on to higher levels only basis without regard to gender, race, religion or ethnic background. The scholarships of education.

One of the scholarship recipients from are then paid directly to the children’s schools this school year was among the speakers at the on their behalf as partial tuition assistance Hope Through Education’s Spring Luncheon for the upcoming school year. Families are and Fashion Show at the Hamilton Farm Golf responsible to the school for any additional Club, Gladstone,Planning April 29. In her remarks, tuition fees beyond the scholarship provided.

Estate To partner with Hope Through EduLia Acosta, who recently finished her junior □ Income □ Last Will and Testament Only Trust year at Saint Thomas Aquinas High School, cation, the school must be previously ap□ Power of Attorney □ Asset Protection Edison, said, “The relationships I have built proved. Approval of the school is based on □ Living Will with the faculty and other students will be its accredited status, academic excellence, ones that I treasure. Saint Thomas Aquinas values-based curriculum, and proven track Law lessons both morally record. Hope Through Education defines a hasElder given me invaluable educational experience as □ Medicaid □ Estate Planning and academically that will set me apart from “values-based” “one that furthers a student’s social, cultural any other student.” □ Guardianships □ Asset Sheltering and intellectual development. The experience As Suzanne Humbert, president of the □ Social Security organization, commented, “Hope Through is fostered by a learning environment that Education is off to a great start in 2021. We consistently inspires every student to excel.

Estate Administration are stronger than ever and more committed All members of the educational community □ Probate □ Willthemselves Contestswith honesty, integrity, to helping underprivileged children reach conduct and are committed to serving others, □ potential Asset Distribution □ Accounting their full through the gift of a high- respect, quality,□values-based Taxes education. As the need especially those in need.”

In addition to St. Thomas Aquinas, today for tuition assistance has never been Helping families in the the eligible high schools that partner with greater, our team of volunteers and donors Hope Through are: Saint Joseph, are working hard to help as many families as more than Education Metuchen area for 15 years!

Metuchen; Immaculata, Somerville; and possible.”

Saint Mary Academy, Watchung.

Hopeparking Through Education accepts ap-lotMount Handicap Free in CHASE Accessible Among the eligible grammar schools plications for tuition assistance from January 1 to March 31. The scholarships are good for that partner with Hope Through Education one year only, and families must reapply each are: Call us today for a FREE consultation!

Immaculate Conception, Annandale; St. year.

Scholarship levels are $2,000•forwww.WolfeOssaLaw.com stu- James, Basking Ridge; School of St. Eliza732-548-5400 dents in kindergarten to eighth grade and beth, Bernardsville; St. Joseph, Carteret; St. nd Bldg.

Metuchen, NJ 475 Main St. 2 Floor, CHASE John Vianney, Colonia; St. Bartholomew, $4,000 for students in grades nine to 12.

East Brunswick; St. Helena, and St. To be eligible, the applicant must live in Hunterdon, Middlesex, Somerset or War- Matthew the Apostle, Edison; St. Augustine

By Chris Donahue Associate Editor

43

Nonprofit education organization offers scholarships to needy students

44 OUR DIOCESE

New Knights

Feast Day On May 12, Parish of the Visitation, New Brunswick, celebrated the feast of St. Lucy Filippini with Religious Teacher Filippini Sisters Carmela, Margaret Mary and Frances, at the Chapel of the Visitation. The flowers were brought by the sisters in memory of Peter Ngu Quoc Tran, a seminarian for the diocese who was killed the night before by an alleged drunk driver in New York City.

— Parish of the Visitation photo

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Thomas J. DeMarco Manager, N.J. LIC. NO. 4651 Peter S. Winther Director, N.J. LIC. NO. 4763 Jennifer L. Burry Director, N.J. LIC. NO. 5172 M. David DeMarco President, N.J. LIC. NO. 3203 205 Rhode Hall Road Monroe Twp., NJ 08831 Family Owned and Operated

732-521-0555 • www.demarcofuneralhome.com Family owned and operated since 1900 Four generations of caring www.flynnfuneral.com Flynn and Son/Koyen Funeral Home

Flynn and Son Funeral Home 420-424 East Avenue Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 Brendan J. Flynn, Jr., Mgr. - NJ Lic. # 4105 Brendan J. Flynn, Jr., Mgr. - NJ Lic. # 4105 James J. Flynn IV, Mgr. - NJ Lic. # 4152 (732) 548-2134 (732) 826-0358 Flynn and(732) Son826-0358 Funeral Home Flynn and Son/Koyen Flynn and Son Funeral Home Flynn and Son Funeral Home FuneralFlynn Flynn and Son Funeral Home Edison-Fords Homeand Son/Koyen Perth Amboy Edison-Fords Funeral Home Perth Amboy 23 Ford Avenue 319 Amboy Avenue 420-424 East Avenue 23 Ford Avenue Amboy Avenue Perth Amboy, NJ420-424 Edison-Fords, NJ 08863 Metuchen, 319 NJ 08840 08861 East Avenue Brendan J. Flynn, Manager Jr. Manager Manager Edison-Fords, NJ 08863 Brendan J. Flynn, Metuchen, NJ 08840 James J. Flynn IV, Perth Amboy, NJ 08861 Flynn and Son Funeral Home

Family owned andAvenue operated since 1900 Family and operated since 3191900 Amboy Avenue 23owned Ford FourFour generations ofNJcaring Metuchen, NJ 08840 Edison-Fords, 08863of caring generations

NJ Lic.No. 2958 Brendan J. Flynn, Manager

NJ Lic.No. 4105

Brendan J. Flynn, Jr. Manager

FUNERAL DIRECTORY

419 Barclay Street, Perth Amboy • 732-826-4525

Costello - Runyon Funeral Homes

M. DAVID

— Michael D’Andrea caption and photo

Gustav J. Novak Funeral Home

Robert Fox Manager NJ License No. 4371

568 Middlesex Ave. (Rt 27)

On April 16, the Knights of Columbus, Council 2544, welcomed eight new members, including seven seminarians. The men took their first three degrees, Charity, Unity, and Fraternity, in the first public ceremony presented by the Council at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Piscataway. Several others present at the ceremony completed whatever remained of their first three degrees as well. The seminarians, coming from Immaculate Conception Seminary and St. Andrew’s College Seminary, were accompanied by several other seminarians and transitional deacons from their respective seminaries, all of whom are also members of the Knights of Columbus. Father Paul DaSilva, council chaplain and pastor, Our Lady of Fatima, led the opening and closing prayers. During the ceremony, all present were instructed in the three principles of Charity, Unity, and Fraternity. Those initiated into the order were presented with rosaries and lapel emblems as signs of their membership.

NJ Lic.No. 4152

James J. Flynn IV, Manager

M

YOUR DIOCESAN CEMETERIES Ready to serve you!

Holy Cross Cemetery

Cranbury/South River Rd., Jamesburg, NJ

Featuring … Mary Sorrowful Mother Mausoleum Crematory at Holy Cross Cemetery

Resurrection Cemetery Hoes Lane & Park Ave., Piscataway, NJ

Announcing The new Mausoleum of the Holy Spirit (Financing Available - Credit Cards accepted)

For information about purchase of crypts, niches or plots at the diocesan-owned and operated Cemeteries, please call:

1-800-943-8400

DIOMETUCHEN.ORG/CEMETERIES

To advertise in this directory call Nan at (732) 765-6444

described to date with new lysosomal storage disorders continuing to be identified.

GM1, a rare monogenic lysosomal storage disease, is caused by mutations in the GLB1 gene, which encodes the lysosomal enzyme beta-galactosidase (β-gal). Reduced β-gal activity results in the accumulation of toxic levels of GM1 gangliosides in neurons throughout the brain, causing rapidly progressive neurodegeneration. Accumulation also results in progressive damage to other tissues including the heart, liver, and bones and manifests with hypotonia (reduced muscle tone), progressive CNS dysfunction, seizures, and rapid developmental regression. Life expectancy for infants with GM1 ranges from 2-10 years, and infantile GM1 represents approximately 60 percent of the global GM1 incidence of 0.5 to 1 in 100,000 live births.

Imagine-1 is a global study of PBGM01 administered by a single injection directly into the cisterna magna, an opening in the subarachnoid space surrounding the brain, in pediatric subjects with early and late infantile GM1.

PBGM01 delivers a functional GLB1 gene encoding the β-gal enzyme to the brain and peripheral tissues that in pre-

clinical studies showed reduced accumulation of GM1 gangliosides. By reducing the accumulation of GM1 gangliosides, PBGM01 has the potential to reverse neuronal toxicity, thereby restoring developmental potential. In preclinical models, PBGM01 has demonstrated broad brain distribution and high levels of expression of the β-gal enzyme in both the CNS and critical peripheral organs, suggesting potential treatment for both the CNS and peripheral manifestations of GM1.

PBGM01 is now being tested in patients with infantile GM1 gangliosidosis to determine whether such treatment is safe and effective by showing specified improvements in neurological function, developmental potential, overall survival, and the quality of life for patients with GM1.

“This clinical study requires exquisite coordination,” said Day-Salvatore.

“Everyone plays a pivotal role, and I am extremely proud of the teamwork, precision, and seamless work flow that resulted in the successful dosing of the first patient in the clinical trial program for PBGM01.

“I am also grateful to the patient’s family for entrusting us with the care of

OUR DIOCESE

NEW BRUNSWSICK — The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital recently announced that it has dosed the first patient in Imagine-1, a global Phase 1/2 clinical trial program for PBGM01, an adeno-associated virus (AAV)-delivery gene therapy being developed by Passage Bio, Inc. (Nasdaq: PASG), a clinical-stage genetic medicines company, that is being studied for the treatment of infantile GM1 gangliosidosis (GM1), a fatal genetic condition.

Saint Peter’s was chosen as one of 10 international clinical trial sites for the global Imagine-1 study for PBGM01 by Passage Bio because of its internationally recognized geneticist with expertise in lysosomal storage diseases, Dr. DebraLynn Day-Salvatore, chair of the Department of Medical Genetics and Genomic Medicine, and principal investigator for the Imagine-1 trial.

Saint Peter’s is home to one of the largest comprehensive Lysosomal Disease Therapy Centers in the United States. Lysosomal storage diseases are inherited metabolic diseases that are characterized by an abnormal build-up of various toxic materials in the body’s cells as a result of enzyme deficiencies.

Nearly 50 of these disorders have been

45

Diocese-sponsored hospital gives landmark treatment to patient

Dr. Debra-Lynn Day-Salvatore

— photo courtesy of Saint Peter’s University Hospital

their precious child. We are pleased to celebrate this milestone with the patients, families, and researchers that helped to bring this effort to fruition and share their hope, dreams, and resolve for the future.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT JUNE 17, 2021

46 OUR DIOCESE

Community Care

RETREAT GUIDE

Above right, Bishop James F. Checchio sprinkles holy water during a recent blessing of the the new Community Health Services mobile unit for the diocesan-sponsored Saint Peter’s University Hospital, New Brunswick. Above left, Bishop Checchio tours the van with Leslie Hirsch, president and chief executive officer, Saint Peter’s Healthcare System. The system’s staff uses the mobile clinic to deliver services such as COVID-19 vaccines to sites in Middlesex and Somerset counties such as schools, retirement communities, homeless shelters, senior centers, and public housing complexes, as well as shopping centers, churches and businesses.

— Frank Wojciechowski photos

...recharge your soul

BLUE ARMY OF OUR LADY OF FATIMA SHRINE 674 Mountain View Rd. E., Asbury, NJ 08802 908-689-7330 • retreat@bluearmy.com

SAN ALFONSO RETREAT HOUSE 755 Ocean Ave., Long Branch NJ 07740

Lift Up Your Soul at the tranquil 150-acre Fatima Shrine.

Host Your Retreat for Youth, Couples, Parish or Vocational Group.

732-222-2731 • info@sanalfonsoretreats.org www.sanalfonsoretreats.org

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

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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

www.loyola.org • retreathouse@loyola.org MALVERN RETREAT HOUSE 315 S. Warren Ave., Malvern, PA 19355 610-644-0400 • Fax: 610-644-4363 An oasis of peace set on 125-acres of wooded countryside.

Retreats for men, women, families, youth, religious and clergy.

malvernretreat.com · mail@malvernretreat.com MOUNT ST. MARY HOUSE OF PRAYER 1651 U.S. Highway 22, Watchung, NJ 07069 Retreats, Spiritual Direction, Programs

908-753-2091 • www.msmhope.org e-mail: msmhope@msmhope.org

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

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

55 acres of natural beauty await you! Programs for personal and spiritual enrichment, directed and solitude retreats. Air conditioned facilities for retreats, spiritual programs, meetings and staff days for church related and not-for-profit groups.

610.867.8890 • sfcr-info@stfrancisctr.org www.stfrancisctr.org

ST. FRANCIS RETREAT HOUSE 3918 Chipman Road, Easton, PA 18045 Franciscan retreat and confrence center RETREATS FOR MEN, WOMEN, YOUTH, RELIGIOUS, PREACHED, PRIVATE, DIRECTED

Phone: 610-258-3053, ext. 10 • Fax: 610-258-2412 E-mail: stfranrh@rcn.com • stfrancisretreathouse.org ST. JOSEPH BY THE SEA 400 Route 35 North, S. Mantoloking, NJ 08738 A Retreat House Sponsored by the Religious Teachers Filippini overlooking the Atlantic Ocean and Barnegat Bay. Offering days of prayer, retreat weekends, spiritual programs, meetings and staff days. 732-892-8494 • e-mail: sjbsea@comcast.net

www.sjbsea.org

THE UPPER ROOM SPIRITUAL CENTER 3455 W. Bangs Ave., Building 2, Neptune, NJ 07753 Phone: 732-922-0550 • Fax: 732-922-3904 www.theupper-room.org · office@theupper-room.org VILLA PAULINE RETREAT AND SPIRITUAL CENTER 352 Bernardsville Road, Mendham, NJ 07945

THE SHRINE OF ST. JOSEPH 1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling, NJ 07980 Day & Overnight Retreats Gift & Book Shop - open daily

Preached/Directed/Guided & Private Retreats, Spiritual Direction, day & weekend programs, Spiritual Direction Formation Program

908-647-0208 · www.stshrine.org

973-543-9058 e-mail: quellen@scceast.org • wwwscceast.org

This month’s featured retreat house: This month’s featured retreat house:

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

(973) 543-9058

The center offers an atmosphere of silence, solitude and space for those seeking to develop and deepen their relationship with God, others and the world we live in. We have day and weekend programs throughout the year. Also available: Spiritual Direction, Spiritual Direction Formation Program, 19th Annotation of the Spiritual Exercises.

Please check out our website for more information.

WWW.SCCEAST.ORG

To join this retreat guide, call Nan at 732-765-6444

47

JUNE 6/19

6/22 – 6/29

6/24

community, and hope. To get the most out of these sessions, please remember to have your bible readily available. For the Zoom meeting information, please email: ssharlow@diometuchen.org Ordinations, 11 a.m. National Blue Army Shrine, Washington, N.J. Four men are scheduled to be ordained to the priesthood and one to the transitional diaconate. Access to the livestream and updates about the ordinations can be found on the diocesan website: diometuchen.org Religious Freedom Week, Solidarity in Freedom. The week begins with the Feast of Sts. John Fisher and Thomas More, ends with the Solumnity of Sts. Peter and Paul, and includes the Feast of the Nativity of St. John the Baptist. During this week Catholics are encouraged to pray and act each day for religious freedom. For more information contact Jennifer Ruggiero at jruggiero @diometuchen.org.

Kickoff of Joy of Love & Family Conference Series celebrating the Year of the Family. Talks will premiere over six months touching on topics for every stage of family life. This event will be sponsored by the five Roman Catholic Dioceses of New Jersey. For more information or to sign up, visit, www.lightingheartsonfire@diometuchen.org Choices Matter All Presentations of the diocese’s Choices Matter Virtual Conference Series are available for viewing by visiting: https://www.diometuchen.org/choicesmatter. Presentations delivered at the diocese’s Choices Matter Conference included: Integrity, God’s Plan for sexuality, defending life in the black community, and fighting the legalization of assisted suicide. Each session will challenge you to reflect on why, in each of these areas, our choices matter if we want to build a culture of life and love.

LECTIO DIVINA Mondays at 11 a.m. join faithful from around the diocese in a prayerful, virtual gathering of Lectio Divina, a method for praying with the Scriptures. As one reads and invites the Word to become a transforming lens that brings the events of daily living into focus, one can come to live more deeply and find the presence of God more readily in the events of each day. Start your week with prayer, community, and hope. To get the most out of these sessions, please remember to have your bible readily available. For the Zoom meeting information, please email: ssharlow@diometuchen.org BLUE ROSARY GUILD The Office of Family Life is pleased to announce the creation of the Blue Rosary Guild. The purpose of the Guild is for community members of all ages to make pocket Rosaries for law enforcement officers, providing them with support and spiritual strength and promoting devotion to the Rosary among all the faithful. All materials and instructions will be provided and a Zoom virtual tutorial will also be scheduled. Anyone interested should contact Cristina D'Averso-Collins, Director of the Office of Family Life at cdaverso@diometuchen.org.

CLASSIFIED

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

Young Couples Bible Study An opportunity to explore the Biblical basis of Catholic beliefs. This virtual group meets Tuesdays at 7 p.m. on zoom. For more information contact: Cristine D’Averso-Collins, director, Office of Family Life Ministry, at cdaverso@diometuchen.org Celebrating Our Neophytes The Pandemic restrictions prevent us from celebrating a Neophyte Mass and reception this year. We would like to honor the Neophytes in another way. They will be receiving an invitation from the diocese to submit a witness statement about their RCIA journey of faith, along with a photo. This invitation will explain that the RCIA office plans to create a "Celebration of Our Neophytes" virtual presentation for our website, and it will also provide some suggestions regarding their statement and photo. Neophytes can send their witness statement and photo to: ssharlow@diometuchen.org Celebrating the Church as a “Family of Families” As we celebrate the Year “Amoris Laetitia Family,” the Office of Communications and Public Relations is compiling a digital family photo album. We invite you to share a photo of your family – a photo of your domestic church by which our local Church of Metuchen is constantly enriched. Please consider sharing your family’s photo with us by sending your photo to communications@diometuchen.org, so we can together bear witness to the love of God through our “family of families.”

Senior Care at Home

For our personalized placement services, call Karen at

908-377-9375

St. John Vianney Parish in Colonia seeks a Parish Catechetical Leader for the purpose of implementing, maintaining and evaluating all areas of the Parish Religious Education Program. It is a traditional classroom approach for approximately 250 students in grades 1-8.

The position also involves coordination of the sacramental programs between the Religious Education Program and the Parish School.

Qualification include: • The candidate must be a practicing Catholic in good standing.

• The candidate must hold a Bachelor’s Degree.

Salary is commensurate with experience. A full benefits package is available.

Email resume to catechetical_leader@sjvs.net

PARISH CATECHETICAL LEADER St. Elizabeth-St. Brigid Parish in Peapack NJ is seeking a full-time Parish Catechetical Leader – 35 hours per week.

Applicant must be a practicing Roman Catholic, committed to the teachings and mission of the Church, and have the abilit y to share these effectively with others. Basic qualifications include a B a c h e l o r ’s D e gre e i n re l i gi o u s e d u c at i o n , t h e o l o g y, p a s t o r a l s t u d i e s , o r e q u i v a l e n t .

Interested? Please send resume by e-mail to: ParishLife@SaintEB.org or mail to: St. Elizabeth-St. Brigid Parish Attn: PCL Search, PO Box 33 Peapack, NJ 07977

PER LINE CHARGES: $ 3.75 per line - 1 insertion $ 3.50 per line - 2 insertions $ 3.25 per line - 3 insertions $ 3.00 per line - 4 or more insertions

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

Call AJ: (732) 770-2024.

SCREEN REPAIR

WINDOW & DOOR SCREEN R E PA I R S - I n s t a l l a t i o n of Fiberglass screens for your doors and windows.

Pick-up and drop off services available. George & Sons: (908) 392-2677 FOR SALE

H O LYA R T - R e l i g i o u s items and Church goods, made in Italy. w w w.holyar t.com; +39 0522 1729582 CLEANING SERVICES

DELUXE HOUSEKEEPING - Quality and reliable cleaning service.

Free estimates. Commercial and residential. Call Tony or Karina: (732) 670-7437.

Please pray for vocations!

• 24 characters/line (approx) • 5 line minimum • All ads must be pre-paid • Credit cards accepted • Display classified quote upon request

JUNE 17, 2021

Senior Care at Home is the lower cost alternative to nursing homes or assisted living.

Family Care Placement, LLC, provides live-in caregivers allowing them the comfort of their own home. We specialize in placing FILIPINO caregivers.

All candidates are fluent in English with excellent References.

Immediate Opening

SELLING YOUR HOME? 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 CATHOLIC SPIRIT

WEEKLY PODCAST – Am I Not Here?

Produced by the staff of the Office of Communications, “Am I Not Here?” – a weekly podcast – highlights the good news within our local Church and those working to minister to the people of the Diocese of Metuchen. New episodes are released each Monday and once aired they are archived. To listen to any episode, or to learn more, please click the links on the diocesan Facebook page or lighting hearts on fire website LECTIO DIVINA, Mondays at 11 a.m. join faithful from around the diocese in a prayerful, virtual gathering of Lectio Divina, a method for praying with the Scriptures. As one reads and invites the Word to become a transforming lens that brings the events of daily living into focus, one can come Care Placement, to live more deeply and fiFamily nd the presence of God more readily in the events of each day. Start your week with prayer,

REAL ESTATE

HELP WANTED

PARISH CATECHETICAL LEADER

RATES

DIOCESAN PROGRAMS Explore the Female Saints A virtual group for women using the book "Sisterhood of Saints" by Melanie Rigney. The group meets on zoom every Sunday at 2:30 p.m. The program began, May 2. For more information contact: Cristine D’Averso-Collins, director, Office of Family Life Ministry, at cdaverso@diometuchen.org

OUR DIOCESE

DIOCESAN EVENTS

JUNE 17, 2021

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

OUR DIOCESE

48