March 19, 2020

Education section features stories about academic achievement, spiritual enrichment, community outreach, pages 11-24

Spirit atholic C THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

MARCH 19, 2020 • VOL. 25 NO. 4 • $2.00

Catechumen Manishka Mishra of St. Matthias Parish, Somerset, signs the Book of Elect as a pledge of fidelity assisted by Steven Holloway, her sponsor and fiancé, during the Rite of Election at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. Mishra, now a member of the elect, continues her formation to become a member of the Church at the Easter Vigil. See story on page 6.

— John Batkowski photo

INSIDE

Veteran’s Day

Children in Catholic Charities’ after school program extend well-wishes to 104-year-old Catholic Charities…30 4

Perspectives Our Faith

28-29

Around the Diocese

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Diocesan Events

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catholicspirit.com

This issue was mailed on March 17 Your next issue will be April 30

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Social media sites keep faithful informed, connected

UP FRONT

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Bishop James Checchio In recent weeks, much of our attention has been focused on the spread of the coronavirus. We have been following the updates from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention and have been working closely with our state and county officials. A Coronavirus Task Force has been formed. It is headed by our chancellor who will work with clergy, staff and civil authorities to monitor the progress of the virus and implement best practices for our schools, parishes, and our diocesan center in dealing with COVID-19.

The weekend of March 7-8, a diocesan statement on the precautions we implemented to prevent the spread of the COVID-19 was read at all Masses. In the prayers for the faithful, all who have died from or been affected by the virus were remembered. Last Friday, we announced further changes to contain the coronavirus. These changes were shared with our parishes and sent to the media.

They can also be found on page 5 in this issue of “The Catholic Spirit.” They were posted, too, on our social media, so if you regularly visit our Facebook page you would have been among the first to learn about the changes.

In times like this, I am grateful that we have an effective social media presence. Created in 2014, our social media includes Facebook and Twitter accounts, both of which are primarily used to inform, connect and engage our faithful. We also now are on Instagram, a social media platform used mainly to share photos. What we are able to achieve on these sites is real-time news. When we make an announcement of any importance, like on the coronavirus, it is quickly posted on our Facebook account and if you follow our

diocese, you are one of the firsts to receive the news.

Two years ago, we were able to hire a full-time Media Content Specialist, Gerald Wutkowski, Jr., who works with Tara Smith, our Associate Director of Communications, and since then our social media following and engagement has more than doubled. On average, each month our social media posts are reaching an audience of 6,383 people, who follow the diocese on one of our social media platforms — Facebook, Twitter and Instagram; 14,723 people are engaging with our posts — reacting, commenting, and sharing; and our posts are seen 122,758 times a month. This is wonderful news, as it particularly reaches out to our young, even those whom we might not see regularly in Church activities, or like now when COVID-19 is keeping people away from their parish.

Social media, however, offers so much more than just the latest news. On Facebook you will find me speaking to you such as when I delivered my Ash Wednesday message, “Be Reconciled to God.” Here you will also see photos and a brief explanation of diocesan events and my visits to parishes, schools and other places very soon after they have taken place. Some people have even told me they like the pictures of me holding babies and talking to children.

On Facebook, too, there are Metuchen Meditation posts by Wutkowski. Each one is a short thought from the day’s readings. He also posts Metuchen Moments, short videos of events like my visit to Saint Peter’s University Hospital on World Day of the Sick. In addition, our Facebook account also shares happenings in our parishes and schools. All this and much more can be found on our diocese’s Facebook page and I encourage you to visit it often.

Another benefit of social media is that it is an effective way we can share the Gospel with others. Through our encounters on Facebook we can encourage the faithful and all Christians to live out the

Catholic Spirit

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

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mission of the Church. By virtue of our baptism, we are called to go forth as missionary disciples, to reach the ends of the earth, and that is so possible especially in the digital world.

In his apostolic letter “The Joy of the Gospel,” Pope Francis told us, “Today, as the Church seeks to experience a profound missionary renewal, there is a kind of preaching which falls to each of us as a daily responsibility. It has to do with bringing the Gospel to the people we meet, whether they be our neighbors or complete strangers. This is the informal preaching which takes place in the middle of a conversation, something along the lines of what a missionary does when visiting a home. Being a disciple means being constantly ready to bring the love of Jesus to others, and this can happen unexpectedly and in any place: on the street, in a city square, during work, on a journey” (no. 127).

The digital world is in great need of your joyful witness to the Gospel too! One of the most effective ways we can evangelize on social media is by invitation, and so I’d invite you to follow the Diocese of Metuchen on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, and I’d encourage you to invite others to do the same: @diocesemetuchen Be assured of my ongoing love

and prayers as we continue our Lenten journey. Please know, too, that I am so grateful to for your generous response to this year’s Bishop’s Annual Appeal which allows us to do all this good work! If you haven’t had a chance to give yet, please consider doing so now. We will have our in-pew weekend shortly, and I ask that everyone, if able, give something to assist in this great effort! For those who prayerfully discern not to attend Mass in light of the coronavirus, but would still like to give, please consider making a donation online: diometuchen.org/baa. Every gift, no matter the size, is important and greatly appreciated.

As our work in the diocese continues, let us all keep praying for an end to the coronavirus and ask our Lord to help all those who have been affected by it.

We pray particularly for help through Our Lady of Guadalupe, and through St. Joseph and St. Patrick, whose feast days were celebrated this past week. God bless you and thank you again!

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

Obligation to attend Mass suspended, see page 5 The Bishop’s Schedule March 24 7 p.m. Confirmation at Christ the Redeemer Parish, Sacred Heart worship site, Manville with St. Joseph Parish, Raritan March 25 10 a.m. Mass for the Ordination of David Keyes to the Transitional Diaconate at Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen March 26 11:30 a.m. Mass at Mountain View Youth Facility, Annandale March 26 3:30 p.m. Finance Council Meeting – private event March 27 7 p.m. Confirmation at St. James Church, Woodbridge with St. Andrew Parish, Avenel March 28 4 p.m. Mass of Installation of Pastor at St. Patrick Church, Belvidere March 29 9:30 a.m. Mass of Installation of Pastor at St. Matthias Church, Somerset March 29 noon Mass of Installation of Pastor at St. Lawrence Church, Laurence Harbor March 31 4:30 p.m. Confirmation at Immaculate Conception Church, Somerville April 1 10:30 a.m. College of Consultors Meeting – private event April 1 7 p.m. Confirmation at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Old Bridge April 2 10:30 a.m. Board of Regents Meeting at Seton Hall University, South Orange April 2 3 p.m. Seminary Board of Overseers Meeting at Immaculate Conception Seminary, South Orange April 3 10:30 a.m. Priest Personnel Meeting – private event April 3 5 p.m. Confirmation at St. Joseph Church, Hillsborough For updates on Bishop Checchio's schedule visit: https://diometuchen.org/bishop-schedule

ADJUSTED PRINT SCHEDULE

The next issue of The Catholic Spirit will be April 30, 2020.

of the

By Debra Stevko Miller Correspondent METUCHEN — An hour before the diocese’s annual Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion began March 1, there was standing room only for visitors in the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi.

The diocese’s Mother Church was filled with 305 candidates and catechumens who were ready to take an important step on their faith journey. They included adults, teens and children who had come to express their desire to become members of

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The image, which was featured on page 3 of the March 5 issue of The Catholic Spirit, can be found at Divine Mercy Parish, Carteret.

The winner is...

Michael Kruppa, parishioner at Divine Mercy, Carteret.

MARCH 19, 2020

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Catechumen Nala Gawroriski of St. Mary Parish, South Amboy, signs the Book of Elect as a pledge of fidelity assisted by her mother, Rosemarie, who served as a proxy for Nala's sponsor.

the Catholic Church. With them were Candidates are applauded after stating those chosen to be godparents and their intentions to enter fully in the life of sponsors as well as family, friends and the Church at the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion at the Cathedral parish catechists.

Held on the first Sunday of Lent, of St. Francis of Assisi.

— John Batkowski photos the Rite of Election publicly confirmed the catechumens seeking the Sacraments of Initiation (baptism, confir- today your godparents, your sponmation and first holy Communion) sors, your catechists, judge you to be were spiritually prepared. The Call to ready,” Bishop Checchio said to the Continuing Conversion recognized the candidates and catechumens. “They candidates who had been baptized as testify to the Church today, publicly, Catholics or in other Christian faiths on your behalf that you…have undergone a conversion in were ready for full mind and action, that communion with the you have developed Church.

“I thank you for a sufficient acquainThe readings, tance with Catholic Gospel, acclamations, accepting this teaching, as well as and intercessions were the spirit of charity, journey, for read in English and in your faith.

Spanish to reflect the accepting Jesus’ “I thank you for demographic present. accepting this jourIn his homily, Bishop call and embracing ney, for accepting James F. Checchio it, allowing him to Jesus’ call and emacknowledged the 174 bracing it, allowing baptized candidates love you, to nourish him to love you, to seeking full commuyou, to support you, nourish you, to supnion with the Church port you, to accomand the 131 catechuto accompany you pany you throughout mens going through the formation period throughout your life.” your life.”

During the celof becoming a Chris—Bishop James F. Checchio ebration, amid intertian in the Catholic mittent applause in Church, by equating affirmation from the their journey to Jesus’ assembly, proud parents, sponsors, three temptations by the devil in the and friends were all smiles of encourdesert.

“My brothers and sisters in agement for their loved ones. Then, Christ, we too need to follow Jesus’ following a positive response from the example. It takes discipline, it takes group of their intentions to enter fully perseverance to be a faithful, Catholic into the life of the Church, the candiChristian disciple of the Lord, in our dates and catechumens were invited world, in our day. You have shown by Sara A. Sharlow, director, diocesan Continued on page 6 enough discipline and dedication that

SPECIAL FEATURE

can it be found?

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Image ek e W Where in the diocese

4 OUR DIOCESE

Resurrection of Lazarus and life of glory that awaits us Body & Soul

By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD Only a few people in the Bible are reported to have been brought back to life by Jesus — and, one of them was Lazarus.

We don’t know much about the identity of this man, other than the fact that he was a friend of Jesus and the brother of Martha and Mary. We can imagine the astonishment of the crowd — as well as the shock of Martha and Mary, when Jesus commanded Lazarus to rise from the dead – and we are told that he came out of the tomb still wrapped in the death shroud that was prescribed by Jewish law for his burial. Lazarus, however, was not resurrected, that is, brought to a brand new life in a glorified state — rather, he was resuscitated to the same person, body and soul, that he had been before his death.

As many of you know, I wrote my doctoral dissertation on the theology of the body, based on the thought of a neo-

Thomist who wrote in the 1940s and 50s in war-ravaged, France, a priest-professor by the name of Jean Mouroux. Underlying Mouroux’s preoccupation with the body lies a deeper concern, namely, the mystery of the human person, this incarnate spiritual paradox of unity in diversity.

Jean Mouroux took an interest in the mystery of the human person because the body cannot explain itself. Indeed, the body is the means by which one soul distinguishes itself from another. The body is the means by which the soul expresses itself, communicates with an other and, ultimately, enters into communion with an other. Unfortunately, matter, in itself, is infinite and thereby unintelligible.

When we examine our body-soul unity, the material principle of individuality, even in its juncture with form, in the most basic, organic activity, such as eating, drinking and sleeping, does not explain itself to us. So, we ascend to the higher synthesis of human activity, the level of “spirit” which introduces us to the existential plane on which we subsist as spiritual individuals. Here we are invited to ratify our relations with our hu-

man species through freedom and love.

In short, Mouroux recognizes that the tensions between our essence and existence are such that we can only apprehend their significance by going beyond our self, by viewing each synthesis from a higher viewpoint, and only fully comprehend the polarities of finite being by going to God. In going to this God, we are again called to affirm our relation with God in freedom, but since the real God to whom we are dynamically orientated is the God of grace, Mouroux confronts the polarity or paradox of unity and diversity in the relationship between nature and grace.

Moving from the philosophical to the theological plane, he explores the ambiguity caused by the opacity of our body’s matter and the consequences of Original sin. Thus, by examining incarnate spirit in the light of salvation history, Mouroux perceives the centrality of Christ, who is the concrete-universal.

By uniting ourselves to Christ in freedom and love, we ratify our relation both to our species and to our God. It is in this communion with Trinitarian life, mediated by Christ, that we enter into the mystery of God and concomitantly dis-

cover the meaning our body, our person, the Church and human existence. It is through Jesus that the truth of bodiliness is mediated to the Father and provides the ultimate metaphysical grounding for corporeality.

How does all of this relate to the Gospel? I mentioned earlier that Lazarus was not resurrected but resuscitated. Only Jesus would be the first to resurrect in the true sense of the term. As his disciples, we pray that just as we have united ourselves to him in his Cross, so we will share in his glorious resurrection.

In the Apostles’ Creed, we profess that “we believe in the resurrection of the body.” What does this mean? At the end of time, when Jesus returns in glory to judge heaven and earth, our bodies will be reunited with our souls again, yes, even if our bodies have completely decomposed or were cremated. What will this glorified body look like? In all honesty, nobody knows so we are free to speculate. As a theologian, I’m left with one question: Should I be found worthy of heaven, will I ever eat chocolate again?”

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

Saint’s encyclical on life remains relevant after 25 years March 25, the Feast of the Annunciation, marks the 25th Anniversary of St. John Paul II’s encyclical, “Evangelium Vitae,” on the mission of the Gospel of Life. This

Thoughts On Life

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

By Jennifer Ruggiero compelling papal letter, which is a call to each person to respect, protect, love and serve every human life, has always had a special meaning for me in my work in pro-life ministry.

It was about 23 years ago that I first read the document from cover to cover as I prepared for an interview for my position in the ProLife Office with Bishop Edward T. Hughes. The same copy of the small paperback book I carried with me to that interview sits on my desk today, its cover well-worn and pages yellowed.

Although “Evangelium Vitae” (EV) was written 25 years ago, it could have been written today with the only difference

How to report abuse

being that today the attacks on life have worsened and the risks St. John Paul II reported at the time have largely been realized. The first chapters of EV highlight the many threats to human life, including abortion, euthanasia, contraception, infanticide and the death penalty.

However, it is not limited to describing the situation but also delves into examining its causes. The basic justification for these attacks, according to St. John Paul II, is the claim to individual freedom — an explanation that is still valid today. Our current age of my body, my choice, my life, my way has caused us to champion ourselves over others.

Today, our highest moral goal is to live our lives our way, on our terms.

Consider, for example, the push for the legalization of physician-assisted suicide across our country that has gained considerable momentum over the past two decades. The number one argument offered by proponents of the “right-todie” is that of personal autonomy. It was in 1997, the year that I started working in the diocese, that Oregon became the first state to enact legislation to legalize so-called “death with dignity.” Sadly,

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

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

this past year, after more than 20 years of trying to educate fellow Catholics, the general public and our state legislators about the dangers of this practice, New Jersey became the eighth state to enact a similar law.

In EV, St. John Paul II warned that contraception would lead to a “hedonistic mentality.” He also asserted “if the promotion of self is understood in terms of absolute autonomy, people inevitably reach the point of rejecting one another.”

Think about the following: Statistics indicate that nearly half of all abortions done today are on women who use contraceptives. This shows that men and women with a “contraceptive mentality” are so intent on not becoming pregnant that they are prepared to do whatever it takes to fulfill that intention. Many, many babies in the womb are being rejected.

However, they are not the only ones. Shockingly, the number one killer of pregnant women today is not hemorrhage or hypertension — it is murder!

And more than half of those women are killed by their partner.

We certainly have witnessed the advancement of the culture of death since EV’s publication. Just last year, we watched as New York celebrated a new law that reduces restrictions on late-term abortions and revokes medical care to children born alive during a failed abortion (infanticide).

In the past decade, mortality from suicide and drug and alcohol poisoning has surpassed anything seen in America since the dawn of the 20th century. Life

expectancy in the U.S. has declined for three consecutive years, a phenomenon not seen since World War II. Yet despite these sobering statistics and the growing threats to human life, we can trust in the words of St. John Paul II: “Do not be afraid.” We, as People of God, are called to place our faith in Jesus, the “Word of Life.” (1 Jn 1:1) Christ’s gift of himself on the cross gives us the strength to commit ourselves to building a culture of life.

St. John Paul II’s proposal of eradicating the social evils of abortion and other attacks on life is evangelization and the transformation of human hearts.

As missionary disciples, it is our duty to proclaim the Gospel of Life to our broken world.

However, changing the culture is a process of conversion that begins in our own hearts and includes a willingness to be instructed and a desire to be close to Jesus — the source of joy and love.

Pray daily. Read and reflect on Scripture. Participate in the sacraments often.

Take time to read or re-read “Evangelium Vitae.” Allowing Jesus to meet and transform us daily and responding to his graces will equip us for the mission field of daily life. And when we become discouraged, let us be reassured by the words at the angel’s Annunciation to Mary, “with God nothing will be impossible.” (Lk 1:37) Ruggerio is secretary, diocesan Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life, and director, diocesan Office of Human Life & Dignity

OUR DIOCESE

PISCATAWAY — Facing the rapidly decision to attend Mass,” said Bishop evolving coronavirus pandemic, Bishop Checchio. “While these circumstances James F. Checchio announced March 13 may seem disheartening to many, I enthat while Masses in the diocese will con- courage our people to use this as a time tinue to be celebrated, the faithful are not of opportunity and a time of witness, to obligated to attend until the weekend of show their grandchildren and children the April 4–5, when the situation will be re- importance of faith and that it is not bound evaluated as circumstances unfold. between the walls in our churches, but is Catholic schools in the diocese are to be lived every day and everywhere.” regularly monitoring the progression of With Mass attendance expected to the spread of the be lighter than norcoronavirus and the “When we attend Mass, we mal and churches circumstances for expected to be less each school will con- are nourished by the body populated, those who tinue to be re-evaluatchoose to attend and blood of Jesus Christ do ed on a case-by-case Mass are encouraged basis, following the through the Eucharist. So, to spread out, followpractice of their loing the recommendafor those who prayerfully tion of the Centers for cal school districts.

All individuals are discern not to be present Disease Control and encouraged to follow Prevention (CDC) to for the liturgy, it is impor- avoid close contact the guidance of their local public health tant that they make a spiri- and remain at least officials and civil ausix feet apart. As thorities. tual communion in some has been continually “Regardless if mentioned, everyone other way, such as while is urged to practice the Catholic faithful of our diocese choose watching a livestream of good hygiene by to attend Mass, this washing their hands the Mass on television, or regularly. is an unprecedented time in our nation “Prayer is so at least to pray the rosary needed and in our world, a in these time for much needed or the Liturgy of the Hours, times, so I ask that hope, and above all use even the one of the ancient tradi- you prayer,” said Bishop time that you wash Checchio. “If anyyour hands to pray, tions of the Church.” thing, this is a time for the health, safety for more prayer, not and well-being of less,” he added. your neighbors and people throughout For Catholics, who are called to the world,” said Bishop Checchio. “The build up the Kingdom of God through the praying of just one Hail Mary as you wash Church — both physical and universal — your hands, especially under her title of the impacts of the coronavirus are pushing Our Lady of Guadalupe through her Son, many of them into unchartered territory. to whom our diocese was recently conse“When we attend Mass, we are nourished by the body and blood of Jesus Christ through the Eucharist,” said Bishop Checchio. “So, for those who prayerfully PROVIDENCE, R.I. (CNS) — While discern not to be present for the liturgy, the coronavirus has created an upit is important that they make a spiritual heaval in the daily routines of people communion in some other way, such as around the world, there are ways to while watching a livestream of the Mass minimize the spread of the illness, on television, or at least to pray the rosary said a physician who serves as a deaor the Liturgy of the Hours, one of the ancon for the Diocese of Providence. cient traditions of the Church. Likewise, Dr. Timothy P. Flanigan, profesattending a regularly scheduled weekday sor of medicine at the Alpert Medical Mass may provide a good alternative for School of Brown University and a those seeking to receive our Lord in the physician in the Division of InfecEucharist, as those Masses usually have tious Diseases at The Miriam and a lower number of people in attendance.”

Rhode Island Hospitals, said frequent For those who choose not to attend hand-washing and social distancing Mass in person, a live broadcast of the can minimize transmission of the viMass can be viewed on the Cathedral of rus, also known as COVID-19.

St. Francis of Assisi’s website, stfrancisHe also urged people to take precathedral.org, or on several television cautions when going to Sunday Mass. channels. In addition, resources for prayer One practice as the coronavirus runs can be found on the diocese’s website, its course is for worshippers to stay diometuchen.org/coronavirus. separated by at least an arm’s length “I ask all of our faithful, but espein church pews. People with any Illcially those who are elderly, susceptible ness, he said, should stay home. to illness, or responsible for the care of “This novel coronavirus is others, to use prudence when making the spread just like other respiratory vi-

5

Bishop Checchio suspends obligation to attend Mass until April 4-5

The Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, serves as the mother church of the Diocese of Metuchen and contains the “cathedra” of Bishop James F. Checchio.

— The Catholic Spirit file photo

crated, can be a powerful sign of communion with our brothers and sisters in Christ who are suffering from this terrible virus.”

A prayer has been adapted for the people of the Diocese of Metuchen from a prayer given to the people of Rome by Pope Francis.

“Since we cannot face this alone, we are entrusting this whole situation to our Blessed Mother, and encourage our faithful to join us in praying this prayer,” said Bishop Checchio.

Our Lady of Guadalupe, mother of God and of the people of Metuchen you always shine on our path as a sign of salvation and hope. We rely on you, Health of the Sick, you who, at the cross, united with Jesus’ pain, keeping steadfast your

faith. You, Salvation of God’s people, you know what we need and we are sure that you will provide for us, as at Cana of Galilee, after the adversity of these days, may joy and celebration return. Help us, Mother of Divine Love, to conform to the will of the Father and to do what we are told by Jesus, who has taken our suffering upon Himself and has burdened Himself with our sorrows to lead us through the cross, to the joy of resurrection. Amen.

Under your protection, Holy Mother of God, Our Lady of Guadalupe, we seek refuge, hear our prayer and intercede for us to the Father so that we may be free from every danger, Our Lady of Guadalupe, pray for us.

Deacon/physician: ways to limit spread of virus whelmed with the challenges of COVID-19 we should spend a few moments in silence and realize that Jesus is with us. He was alone while he suffered his death on the cross, except for Mary and John who were at his side.

“Jesus suffered so that we are never alone in our suffering. He carries our cross with us. He will never desert us. When we feel like giving up and are overwhelmed by fear, we should look to the face of Jesus and put ourselves in his hands. He will help us carry on when we feel that we cannot. We are never alone in our suffering. He carries our cross with us. He will never desert us.

“When we feel like giving up and are overwhelmed by fear, we should look to the face of Jesus and put ourselves in his hands. He will help us carry on when we feel that we cannot.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

ruses, including influenza,” he said.

“When a person is infected, they sneeze or cough and then those little droplets get on the hands and then we shake hands with other people who then touch their mouth or nose. These viruses are adapted so that they enter through our mucous membranes.

They do not enter through intact skin.”

Deacon Flanigan said if you have a respiratory infection with sneezing, cough and possibly fever, stay at home until you are better. If family members or friends are sick with a respiratory infection, “keep at least one arm’s length away, but you can still visit and talk to them from a distance and drop off food and cheer them up and help them out.”

When asked how faith can help people stay focused and healthy, he said, “Many of us feel that we are alone. We do not have close friends or family. When we become over-

6 OUR DIOCESE MARCH 19, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

305 catechumens, candidates closer to full communion with Church Continued from page 3

Office of Rite of Christian Initiation of Adults (RCIA), to cross the sanctuary one-by-one to be congratulated

by Bishop Checchio. They included individuals of all ages and ethnicities.

With the younger set, the bishop made certain to share an extra word or two with them as he shook their hand.

It will be at the Easter Vigil in their parishes, that the catechumens will become Catholics and the candidate become full members of the Church.

“It was good for them to see such a fully packed house,” said Ginger Tornambe, an RCIA catechist at St. Andrew Parish, Avenel, a former Methodist who converted to Catholicism 54 years ago. “It says to them, ‘Wow, there are a lot of people here who feel like I do, who believe what I’m learning, and they’re here for me today.’

“This is just such a wonderful experience. I’ve been here many times and, of course, each time is different.”

Tornambe and her husband, Paul, were asked by their pastor seven years ago to participate as team members in the RCIA program. She has gained much from the experience.

“I will tell you, whenever you’re teaching kids or anybody about your religion, you learn more about it yourself,” she said. “When you try to explain it to somebody else you find a way to understand it more deeply.”

Manishka Mishra, who is Hindu, was excited for her future. She will be marrying her sponsor, fiancé Steven Holloway, in August at St. Matthias Church, Somerset, following completion of her catechumenate this Easter.

Her mother once worked alongside Mother Teresa so preparation into the Catholic Church was never an issue for her family.

“I think it’s really important and especially for our shared life together,” she said about this chapter of her life and her pending marriage. “I know how important it is to [Steven] and his

Clockwise from below right, Bishop James F. Checchio gives the homily at the Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi; congratulates catechumens, including Isabella Torres of Christ the Redeemer Parish, Manville; catechumens stand after their names were read and receive applause; the Book of Elect contains the names of those who will become members of the Church at the Easter Vigil.

— John Batkowski photos

family. My culture, my heritage, and the way I was raised is not really going to be lost. I’m just adding to what I already have.”

Following the Rite of Election, the bishop posed for photos with the candidates and catechumens as they mingled with other participants and supporters. As they look forward to a new life as Christians in the Catholic Church, perhaps each will heed and appreciate the substance of the Bishop’s words when he said to them: “We need you. The Church needs you. Our world needs you.”

The Office of Human Life and Dignity DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

Sponsoring programs and activities dedicated to protecting life at all stages and in all conditions through . . .

Public Information & Education • Outreach & Pastoral CarePublic Policy & Legislation • Prayer & Worship

Jennifer Ruggiero, Director

732-562-4574 • jruggiero@diometuchen.org

Angela Marshall, Program Coordinator 732-562-1543 • amarshall@diometuchen.org

Alpha St. Mary Candidate: Andrew Beal

Bridgewater Holy Trinity Candidate: Karen Nunez

Annandale Immaculate Conception Candidates: Christopher Cree, Jacquelyn DeTommaso, Robert Jobmann, John Tillotson

Colonia St. John Vianney Catechumen: Kady Stava

Avenel St. Andrew Candidate: Robert Eggert Basking Ridge St. James Catechumens: Rikako Leahy, Erin McCarthy, Candidate: Bruce Yaeger Bernardsville Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catechumen: Kaitlyn Ketterman Candidate: William Alford Bloomsbury Annunciation Candidate: Carly Leary Bound Brook St. Joseph Catechumens: Magdalena Carro Quiroz, Marisol Mancilla, Candidates: Albertina Asuncion, Olives Bautista, Juan Carlos Garcia, Josafat Marcelo Merino, Mauren Ortega Hernandez, Noe Pacheco

Dunellen St. John the Evangelist Catechumen: Sarah Cardona-Luna East Brunswick St. Bartholomew Catechumens: Hannah Fakhrzadeh, Nitya LeoGrande, Fanny Tsui Candidates: Sara Bowne, Norman Dumas Jr., Daniel Pressl, Russell Ward Edison-Highland Park Transfiguration of the Lord Catechumen: Yingyun Xie Edison St. Helena Catechumens: Jayla Baez, Bryan West Candidate: Tyleisha Baez St. Matthew the Apostle Catechumen: Patricia Turner Candidate: Gideon Thuo Far Hills-Peapack St. Elizabeth-St. Brigid Catechumens: Kelly D’Aries, Kim McCue

Continued on next page

Flemington St. Magdalen de Pazzi Candidates: Ashley Barrick, Gabriela Callejas Fuentes, Danielle Hofmann, Allan Lopez Gamez, Scott Maguire, Keiry Marquez Nolasco, Nicole Umali, April Valente, Deborah Varriale Fords Our Lady of Peace Catechumens: Jazmin Marin, Luna Marin, Rene Morales, Melissa Pena, Jenna Scaletti Candidates: Cesar Hernandez, Jr. Hampton St. Ann Candidates: William Gallagher, Giselle Gallagher Hillsborough Mary, Mother of God Catechumens: Joanie Chang, Sean DeFazio Candidates: Jorge Cabellero, Jose Cabellero, Josephine Cabellero, Lucas Lopez St. Joseph Catechumen: Jessica Franciscus Candidate: Kevin Cole Hopelawn Good Shepherd Catechumens: Egar Pueson, Giana Taveras, Amanda Taveras Candidates: Jariel Baez, Ricardo Bravo, Krystal Suarez, Darielene Suriel, Deeani Suriel, Juan Valencia Iselin St. Cecelia Candidates: Isis Garcia, Jennifer Garcia, Melissa Harrell, Yvette Morales, Mireida Reyes Jamesburg St. James the Less Catechumens: Nadina Busnar, Francisco Reyes Candidates: Eliezer Fernandez Medina, George Marin, Tina Marie Stonaker, Ever Velazquez Torralua

Manville Christ the Redeemer Catechumens: Aiden Petrock, Isabella Torres, Xavier Torres Candidate: Leonora Petrock

Montgomery Township St. Charles Borromeo Catechumens: Nicholas Cardona, Cassidy DeSantis, Esha Lobo, Candidates: Zarah Cardona, Ashwin Lobo, Jack Markowski, Luiza Ragazzo, Theo Ragazzo, Hannah Robin, Hannes Robin

St. Thomas the Apostle Catechumens: Sarah Ann Martin, Denis Semana

New Brunswick Holy Family Catechumens: Raquel Adan Feliciano, Finamarie Melendez, Edgar Torres, Jhatziry Valencia Candidates: Rudy V Barrios Ochoa, Miguel Angel Bonilla, Valeria Camarrillo, Juan Castillo Aquino, Isidro Gil Rojas, Juan M. Herrera Lopez, Kevin Jimenez, Remedio Jimenez, Sabino Lopez Jimenez, Estela Lopez Rivera, Gildardo Lopez Vargas, Veronica Martinez Nicolas, Annette Mendoza, Teodora Navaez Silva, Leticia Pelaez Chavez, Angel Perez, Pedro Perez, Fabian Quintero Bautista, Deysi Reyes Olivera, Cecilia Santiago De La Cruz, Alan Sugundo

Perth Amboy St. John Paul II Catechumens: Diana Rivera, Isabella Rosa, Jacedes Suriel Candidates: Yuriana Marcelo, Jesus Abraham Morales, Gilberto Rivera III

Our Lady of Mount Carmel Catechumens: Karen Arias Guzman, Antonio Lopez, Viviana Lopez Candidates: Cesar Martinez, Esau Miranda, Grabiel Osorio Lopez, Susana Perez, Carlos Rojas Parish of the Visitation Catechumens: Jeury Bonilla, Danny Rodriguez Candidates: Andres Aguirre Flores, Miguel Edwardo Alvarez, Karla Castaneda, Humberto Contreras, Nancy Estevez, Linda Lazaro, Ricardo Lima, Juan Roberto Lima, Jr., Elvis Jose Nicolas, Anahi Vanessa Nicolas Gaspar, Rosa Rojas St. Peter the Apostle Catechumens: Laurel Fague, Claire Leiva, Brian Leiva, Ethan Madera, Jeffrey Miller Candidates: Nicholas Brennan, Maribel Ramirez, Tomas Valdez North Plainfield St. Joseph Catechumens: Alyson Barbosa, Lily Bubnich, Henry (Joel) Caicedo, Yailene (Ya) Caicedo, Kaylee Fernandez, Angel Garrido, Brandon Garrido, Danisha Miranda, Anderson Morente, Daniel Otero,

Old Bridge St. Ambrose Catechumen: Patrick Pajarillo Candidates: Matther Ramirez, Matthew Ramirez, Gabriel Rivera, Sean Torenli

Parlin St. Bernadette Candidates: Thomas Kearns, Emmanuel Kwardo Kuffour, Samuel Tucker

Most Holy Name of Jesus Catechumens: Jenesis Agostini, Karlanny Guzman, Hylene Holguin, Dayanna Martinez, David Rodriguez, Lia M. Rosario, Elizabeth Sarmiento, Daniel Soto Espino, Genesis Tineo, Rainier Torres Candidates: Jose Luis Alvarez Collazos, Melany Rosanna Avalo Perez, Fabiana De La Cruz, Rosa Gonzalez, Omar G. Leon Patino, Diosmary Leonardo, Quenia Moreno, Fransely Tineo, Miguelina Torres Our Lady of Fatima Catechumens: Dania Cortez, Saira Hernandez Phillipsburg St. Philip and St. James Catechumens: Wendi Hernandez, Paulo Marchetti, Brandon Wyant Candidates: Marie Anne Ccassagnol Piscataway Our Lady of Fatima Catechumens: Chloe Pino, Ayden Wilkerson Candidates: Mylene Avellanosa, Uzoma Chukwu, Grace Enabosi, Alex Henriquez, Jordan Henriquez, Joseph Henriquez, Justin Llego, Maryann Nguyen, Emil Rivera, Mateo Ruiz, Sophia Valle, Nathan Vargas, Richard Vargas Plainsboro Queenship of Mary Candidate: Bruce Keyser Raritan St. Ann Catechumen: Kristin Gondeck

Sayreville Our Lady of Victories Candidate: Kevin Siqueira Somerset St. Matthias Catechumens: Briana Farrell, Manishka Mishra, Vivian Nguyen, Orchid Santana, Jiselle Zelaya Candidates: Carol Afriyie, Christian Barnard, Joseph Blay, Alexandre Dias, Andrew Lavali, Olivia Lopez, Victoria Lopez, Juelz Peralta, Christopher Reyes, Brian Reyes, Justin Rivera, Raymond Rivera, Lilliana Romero Garcia, Ivan Solares, Katelyn Tejada, Robert Zagata Somerville Immaculate Conception Catechumens: Keiaundra Drury, Jillian Kelly-Suarez, Alexander Pindyck, Benjamin Suarez Candidates: Michael Attanasio, Robert Berger, Robert Davis, Edwin De Leon, Douglass Eaton, Jr., Ricardo Ramirez South Amboy Sacred Heart Candidate: Charles Baptista St. Mary Catechumens: Gianna Gawroriski, Nala Gawroriski, Jayden Tortorello, Jason Williams South Bound Brook Our Lady of Mercy Catechumens: Sook Ja Bang, Yingling Chen, Hyejeong Choi, Jennica Kim, Mak Dong Lee, Hoki Lee, Hyunggon Moon, Young Soo Shin South Plainfield Church of the Sacred Heart Catechumens: D’Angelo Coris, Linda Johns South River St. Stephen Protomartyr Catechumens: Valdimer James Prasak Spotswood Immaculate Conception Catechumens: Ashley Bueno, Danielle Fusco Candidates: Anna DiMonda, Henry Vogel Three Bridges St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Candidate: Eileen Crane Watchung St. Mary – Stony Hill Catechumen: Rama Reddy Woodbridge St. James Catechumens: Doreen Pinto, Rooseventzky Saint-Fleur Candidate: Edd Martinez

MARCH 19, 2020

Metuchen Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi Catechumens: Rachel Dyrek, Stephanie Kawall, Madeline Ramirez, Joyce Sun, Ramona Torres, Saul Torres Candidates: John Jean-Pierre, Tyler Keshel, Krystal Lashley

Gina Salguero, Elias Silva, Evelyn Silva, Juan Torres, Ramiro Velasquez

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Kendall Park St. Augustine of Canterbury Catechumen: Brittany Sarosky Candidate: Michael Sarosky

Middlesex Our Lady of Mount Virgin Catechumens: Alejandra Castro, Ginny DaiHo, Denise McGee, Joshua Orihuela, Xander Perez Vargas, Delon Tioguem, Michelle Vasquez Candidates: Nancy Ahlbrandt, Timothy Alexander Lester, Rostand Melhy, Eric Ribagin, Michelle Vasquez

OUR DIOCESE

Continued from previous page

7

Catechumens/Candidates

8 OUR DIOCESE

Net Gain The Teen Ministry program at St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish held its third annual “Habits vs. High Schoolers” Volleyball Game March 1. Twenty members from five religious orders and 45 high school students participated.

— Frederic Gentzel photos

Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament 50 West Somerset St., Raritan, NJ

Divine Mercy Sunday April 19, 2020

1:00 - 3pm Confessions & Rosary Prayers and Chaplet at 3:00 followed by Holy Mass (fulfills Sunday obligation)

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Rev. Anthony J. Mastroeni

How to prepare for the Feast of Divine Mercy: • Pray the Novena which begins on Good Friday.

• Go to Confession.

• Perform deeds of mercy.

To obtain the Promise of the Feast of Divine Mercy:

Celebrant and Homilist

1. Sincerely repent of all the sins of your whole life.

Ordained in 1972, Mastroeni earned degrees Ordain in Spiritual Theology, Philosophy, Psychology, and a J.D. in Civil Law. For 33 years he was a professor of Theology and Philosophy at several universities in the U.S. and abroad.

2. Go to confession preferably before Mercy Sunday.

Come and Venerate a 1st Class Relic of St. Maria Faustina For directions or further info, please call or email:

Jen English

(973) 525-6692 • amjadopt@comcast.net

3. Attend Mass on the Feast day and receive Jesus worthily in Holy Communion.

4. Venerate the Image of Divine Mercy.

5. Be merciful to others and perform an act of mercy on the Feast day.

6. Place our complete trust in Jesus.

Promise of Jesus for Mercy Sunday: "The soul that will go to confession and receive Holy Communion will receive complete forgiveness of sins and punishment." [Diary 699]

Sponsored by Divine Mercy Apostolate • Diocese of Metuchen

OUR DIOCESE

Grow in your Faıth Preparing men and women for ministry and leadership in the Church today, ICSST offers graduate theology programs and courses such as Secularism and Catholicism and Scriptural Models of the Holocaust .

Learn more about David and how you can begin taking courses as early as this spring at www.shu.edu/spirit-courses

9

Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology

“I knew ICSST would be a place that would nourish my faith and challenge me intellectually.”

David Hajduk, Ph.D. Director of Mission and Ministry, Delbarton School

Pregnant and parenting moms in need are in our parishes and our neighborhoods. As Pope Francis reminds us, our parishes need to be “islands of mercy in the midst of the sea of indifference.” Everyone in our parish communities should know where to refer a pregnant woman in need.

Bishop James F. Checchio poses with volunteers at the St. Vincent de Paul Metuchen Chapter Food Pantry, including Charity Sister Maria Lan Nguyen (top photo), during a Lenten visit March 7. According to Bishop Checchio, many families were fed and volunteers helped people prepare their taxes. In addition, Elijah’s Kitchen was busy downstairs serving lunch. For more than 10 years, Walter and Linda Mulyk, members of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park, have coordinated the many volunteers who feed the needy at the facility. Volunteers that day were mostly from the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Metuchen; and Mary, Mother of God Parish, Hillsborough.

“Thanks to all those who were volunteering and helping today, and for all those parishes that help to provide the food,” the bishop said.

— photo courtesy of Bishop James F. Checchio

We invite all the faithful to join us

as we embark on this Year of Service.

For more information, and to ensure you receive news and updates, please contact: The Office of Human Life & Dignity at 732-243-4574 or email human.life.and.dignity@diometuchen.org

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

Lenten Visit

In order to assess, expand and better communicate resources to local pregnant moms and families in need, our diocese is joining a nationwide effort from March 25, 2020 to March 25, 2021 entitled: “Walking with Moms in Need: A Year of Service.”

OUR DIOCESE

10

Collection supports retired priests

Parker at Somerset Post-Acute Rehabilitation CMS

Five-Star Quality Rating

in All Categories

The Maria Regina Residence in Somerset, which opened its doors in 1989, is home to retired priests from the diocese.

— Chris Donahue photo

SPECIALIZING IN: Stroke, Pulmonary, and Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Cardiac Care

732-545-4200

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

15 Dellwood Lane, Somerset Parkerlife.org |

MARCH 19, 2020

He remembers that teachers at the parochial schools were the first to receive some financial assistance after they Shortly after being interviewed by tele- retired, he said.

“I was judicious,” said Msgr. Capik, phone, Msgr. William J. Capik planned to drive from his home in Bridgewater to St. who last served as pastor of St. James ParJohn Vianney Parish, Colonia, to adminis- ish, Basking Ridge, before retiring in 2005. ter the sacrament of reconciliation at 6 p.m. “I started to watch my pennies and to be able to save. I am in good shape and reand 7:30 p.m.

What makes Msgr. Capik’s visit spe- ally appreciate the fact that the people have cial is that the 90-year-old priest is one of been generous to the retired priests and so 28 who have officially retired from active on. It is great because once you get sick ministry. And, living on a fixed income, he things aren’t cheap anymore and as a result of that it is a good backup. has to pay for expenses such “It [the annual collecas gas for his car, which is “It [the annual coltion] was a really good idea why he and the other retirees are grateful for the diocese’s lection] was a really and the fact is I appreciate annual “Collection for our good idea and the it deeply, what the Church has done and how they have Retired Priests.” The collection will be held this year fact is I appreciate thought about us and care us in times when you on Palm Sunday weekend it deeply, what the for can’t take care of yourself (April 4-5). Some parishes in the diocese have schedChurch has done -- health care most of all.”

In addition to supuled it for other weekends.

Those who support the and how they have porting the retired diocesan collection can be assured that thought about us priests, the collection also provides a subsidy for the their donations not only asand care for us in operation of the Maria Resist clergy who have earned their retirement after decades times when you gina Residence.

The diocese is obliof service to the Church, but help them remain a vital link can’t take care of gated to provide each retired priest with a pension; medibecause of the spiritual and pastoral care they provide to yourself — health cal, dental and auto insurmembers of the diocese. care most of all.” ance; and a residence with a modest rental. A retired Msgr. Capik’s trip to —Msgr. William J. Capik priest may choose where to St. John Vianney also came live and some are in other after he recuperated from some recent medical procedures, but he states.

The Maria Regina Residence costs does not plan on slowing down. He will continue to minister at parishes that request about $550,000 a year to operate. The colhis services, whether it is administering the lection helps provide for a support staff of sacraments or volunteering at The Center cooks and domestics.

Built during the tenure of Bishop Edfor Great Expectations, a residential facility in Somerville that offers a spiritual program ward T. Hughes, The Maria Regina Resiof recovery for homeless and pregnant dence opened its doors in 1989.

The collection for retired diocesan women between the ages of 13 and 40.

“The [financial] support is great be- priests is separate from the annual colleccause when I was ordained in 1955, there tion for retired religious in December. That was no pension plan. You died with your collection is for sisters, priests and brothers whose orders have worked in the diocese. shoes on,” Msgr. Capik said with a laugh.

By Chris Donahue Associate editor

11 EDUCATION

A Special Supplement of The Catholic Spirit • March 19, 2020

Curriculum at schools in diocese ‘infused with faith’

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

every day. The diocesan guidelines assure they are equal to the task.

Stevens explained, “Their primary mission and vision is to infuse religion through curriculum, professional development and Catholic identity. All teachers are required to continue their own education. They are given five years to earn 100 professional development hours with the expectation of remaining abreast of best practices. In addition, they must earn 60 spiritual hours and commit to deepening their own faith.

“They are prepared to help the children to learn and grow,” she said.

“Educators must be lifelong learners.

You know that old adage: ‘you can’t give what you don’t have.’”

The underlying strength in Catholic schools is the infusion of faith into all aspects of curriculum, Stevens concluded.

“There is religion class every day, but it is more than that,” she said. “We make deliberate connections of Christian values and faith.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

Why should families seek a Catholic education for their children?

Catholic schools in the Diocese of Metuchen offer an award-winning mix of a challenging curriculum, the latest in technological and language resources, skilled teachers and administrators, and a stellar graduation rate. But if you ask Barbara Stevens, assistant superintendent, diocesan Office of Schools, the best reason is faith.

“The ultimate goal in Catholic education is to infuse our Catholic values and virtues throughout the entire curriculum,” Stevens said. “Our first priority is to help students learn and grow in our Catholic faith and traditions.”

Stevens explained that curriculum in the diocese’s 23 elementary schools, two diocesan high schools and two private Catholic high schools aligns with the State of New Jersey Curriculum Content Standards. The national focus on science, technology, engineering and mathematics has expanded in the diocese to include the arts and, not surprisingly, religion. The diocese’s robust curriculum, which allows students to explore and grow in knowledge in these critical areas, has led a number of the diocese’s schools to be recognized as U.S. Department of Education National Blue Ribbon Schools, most recently St. Thomas School, Old Bridge, and St. Helena School, Edison, both in 2018.

In addition, St. Augustine of Canterbury School, Kendall Park (a 2016 Blue Ribbon School), has been named “Today’s Catholic Teacher” magazine’s “2020 Innovations in Catholic Education Award Winner for Technology Integration.” The

magazine explained its selection, She added, “There is a focus on saying “[The school] has raised the developing thinking throughout all bar for STREAM [science, technol- the schools. Students are encouraged ogy, reading, engineering, art and to make connections between thinkmathematics] integration in the ing and reasoning, and as a result, classroom by incorporating coding they learn how to communicate with and robotics into curriculum areas an emphasis on writing.” where they normally wouldn’t be Before assuming her role as expected to appear, such as reading, assistant superintendent, Stevens language arts, and social studies… served as principal of the St. Francis [The project exposes] digital-native, Cathedral School, Metuchen, itself tech-hungry students a 2017 Blue Ribbon to these concepts and winner. She noted technologies across that the scientific“All teachers are the learning spectrum centric STREAM before they reach required to continue curriculum and the middle-school age.” their own education. literary-based CathoIn addition to lic classical model They are given five both had an importhe science-focused STREAM curriculum tant place in a stuyears to earn 100 model, two schools dent’s learning track. professional develof the diocese have “It’s not an eiadopted a Cathother/or situation,” opment hours with Stevens said. lic classical model, “They which lead students are different means the expectation of through an in-depth to the same end. The remaining abreast exploration of topemphasis has always ics spanning numerof best practices. In been to develop ous subject areas. curriculum into the addition, they must 21st century. Well, St. Ann School, Raritan Borough; we are well into the earn 60 spiritual and Immaculata High 21st century now, School, Somerville, hours and commit and focus upon skills offer their students an like communications, to deepening their collaboration and ineducation founded in philosophy, language quiry: skills you need own faith.” and emphasis on a in the workplace.

— Barbara Stevens classical program.

“Students will “They delve not work in isolation deeply into the writings of great -- they need deep, critical thinking philosophers like Homer and Plato, and interaction,” she continued. “We saints of the Church such as St. Au- are keeping current in technology. gustine and St. Ambrose and the Old People do want STREAM education, and New Testaments, with the em- and it’s not just about spewing out phasis on developing thinking,” Ste- facts.” vens said. “We look at our history as An integral ingredient to sucpersons created by God in the image cessful Catholic curriculum is the and likeness of God for the purpose elementary and secondary teachers of learning and growing.” who lead and inspire their students

EDUCATION

12

CATHOLIC SCHOOLS...

732.634.0500 and website is www.sj-school.org

we offer a SMARTER START in school and in life!

Hunterdon County Immaculate Conception Annandale icsannandale.org 908-735-6334

Middlesex County St. Joseph, Carteret sjps.net 732-541-7111

St. John Vianney, Colonia sjvs.net 732-388-1662 St. Bartholomew East Brunswick stbartseb.com 732-254-7105

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

St. Helena, Edison sthelenaedison.org 732-549-6234 St. Matthew, Edison stmatthewtheapostle.com/school 732-985-6633 St. Augustine of Canterbury Kendall Park staugustinenj.org 732-297-6042 St. Francis Cathedral Metuchen stfranciscathedralschool.org 732-548-3107

St. Ambrose, Old Bridge stambroseschool.net 732-679-4700

St. James, Woodbridge sj-school.org 732-634-0500

St. Thomas the Apostle Old Bridge saintthomasob.com 732-251-4812

Somerset County

Assumption Catholic Perth Amboy assumptioncatholicschool.net 732-826-8721 Perth Amboy Catholic pacatholicschool.org 732-826-1598 Our Lady of Victories Sayreville olvnj.com 732-254-1676 St. Stanislaus Kostka Sayreville

sskschool.org 732-254-5819

Holy Savior Academy South Plainfield holysavioracademy.com 908-822-5890 Immaculate Conception Spotswood icsspotswood.org 732-251-3090

Saint James, Basking Ridge sjsbr.org 908-766-4774 School of St. Elizabeth Bernardsville steschool.org 908-766-0244 St. Ann, Raritan stannparish.com 908-725-7787

High Schools

St. Thomas Aquinas Edison

stahs.net 732-549-1108

Immaculata, Somerville immaculatahighschool.org 908-722-0200 Mount Saint Mary Academy Watchung mountsaintmary.org 908-757-0108 Saint Joseph, Metuchen stjoes.org 732-549-7600

St. Matthias, Somerset stmatthias.info 732-828-1402 Immaculate Conception Somerville icsschool.org 908-725-6516

To find a Catholic school visit: diometuchen.org/ find-a-school

Warren County Saints Philip and James Phillipsburg sspjnj.org 908-859-1244

Diocese of Metuchen • Office of Schools • 732-562-2446 • https://metuchencatholicschools.org/schools/

young women in the Mount Saint Mary Academy community.

“The course allows females to be the main focus of the course, surrounded by their peers, and shows them what possible career paths are possible when they may have otherwise not either been able to take the course because it was sold-out with male students, or would feel that because Comp Science is a male-dominated industry that they wouldn’t bother to take it,” he added.

Mount Saint Mary Academy juniors Kelly Cushing and Alexandra Ahlbeck believe being enrolled in an AP Computer Science course with such a prominent female presence is “amazing.”

“This dynamic fosters a comfortable learning environment in a field that is male-dominated. It is vital that this generation of young women are encouraged to pursue a career in such a progressive field.”

A National Blue Ribbon School

PreSchool & Kindergarten

OPEN HOUSE Thursday, April 2nd @ 7pm Exceptional PreSchool & Full Day Kindergarten programs offering a rich variety of activities and experiences to enrich the emotional, physical, social, spiritual and cognitive growth of the young child.

We offer a 3 or 5 full day program for four year olds and a 2 half day program for three year olds.

EDUCATION

WATCHUNG — The College Board has once again recognized the female participation of students in the Advanced Placement Computer Science Principles Course at Mount Saint Mary Academy, Sofia Santos, director of the school’s Office of Student Services, said Feb. 10.

The College Board certificate reads, “For attaining female student representation in AP Computer Science and helping to close the gender gap in computer science in 2019. Out of 20,000 institutions that offer AP Courses, 818 have earned the award. Yours is one of only 639 to be recognized for achieving this important result in AP Computer Science Principles.”

Brian Vagnini, chairperson, Department of Computer Science who teaches the class, said, “There are so many exciting advances happening in the computer programming industry today, and each year it is a pleasure to work with the

St. Francis Cathedral School

13

Computer class receives award

45 Library Place, Metuchen, NJ 08840 732-548-3107 www.stfranciscathedralschool.org

Tradition. Excellence. Achievement.

Our Lady of Victories School www.olvnj.com

Career Day Dr. Namrata Choudhury Jain, a member of the Class of 1999 and an assistant professor of pediatrics, shares her experiences in the medical field with students at Mount Saint Mary Academy during Career Day Jan. 31 in the Mother Mary Patrick Gymnasium. About 35 alumnae participated in the event.

— photo courtesy of Mount Saint Mary Academy

 When: March 22  Time: 9:30 a.m. – 12:00 noon  Where: 36 Main Street, Sayreville, 08872  Who: PreK3, PreK4 and Kindergarten

For more information contact 732-254-1676

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

Learn about OLV School and meet and greet staff

14 EDUCATION MARCH 19, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Students' creativity, ingenuity displayed at 'show-and-tell' event EDISON — Ever wonder how to build a The exhibits continued outdoors as stucomputer? Or what ice cream made with dents demonstrated blacksmithing skills dry ice would taste like? Or how algae while others used a repurposed 8-foot would react to a caffeine diet? These are tall trebuchet to create process art. One just a few of the questions that St. Thomas could not leave the Maker Faire without Aquinas High School students answered a feeling of curiosity and intrigue. In fact, at the second annual STA Maker Faire, some students were already formulating an all-day event held March 10. what kind of contraption or project they Often referred to as, could put on display at next “the greatest show-and-tell year’s event.

“School Maker on Earth,” Maker Faires A Maker Faire is about have taken off around the even more than STEM Faire really world because they allow (science, technology, engistudents the opportunity gives students neering and mathematics), to show off the products of though; it is also about a chance their know-how and imagiSTEAM (with the A standnation. ing for art). Some students to shine, to This year’s Maker unleashed their creativity explore some- in artistic ways, demoing Faire featured more than 50 exhibits, carefully planned works of art or setting thing new that their and brought to reality by up shop to produce "objets more than 140 STA student interests them, d’art" that visitors could makers, not to mention take away with them. The and to build six displays designed by Photography Club assemstudents from three local bled a springtime photo skills.” grammar schools. These booth and the Art Club of— Casey Walker displays included a homefered DIY shamrocks while made spirometry device; an other students crocheted, investigation into the effect laser cut ornaments, made of caffeine on algae; “dry ice cream;” cus- origami, and designed sneakers. And tomizable homemade soap; DIY invisible to celebrate National Catholic Sisters ink; cardboard bridge building; a Spin- Week, the Christian Social Action Club Art bike; an intro to woodworking; PC teamed up with STEM students to create building; and robotics demonstrations. a special light-up card for the sisters at

From left, Christopher Rodriguez and Brianna Fontanilla, students at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, set up a repurposed trebuchet that they used to create process art at the second annual STA Maker Faire March 10.

— Mike Kowalczyk photo the retirement home in Lodi.

More than 100 students stopped by to write a high-tech card for a Sister. Senior Ryan Gluchowski, who demonstrated the “Wonders of Dry Ice,” commented on the event, “This year for the Maker Faire we had a great turnout, both for the makers and the people who attended the event. We had over double the number of makers from last year, which was very exciting. It was great that so many people wanted to show their creativity in all different areas.”

Regardless of the nature of the exhibit, each one required a considerable investment in person hours and could not

have been accomplished without the help of classmates and teachers. The Spin-Art Bike alone took more than 35 personhours to plan and create. Landen Gonzalez (Class of 2023) and Josh Hebbe (’22) undertook the majority of the planning and fabrication of that project, but more than 15 students lent their ideas or hands in some way.

“School Maker Faire really gives students a chance to shine, to explore something new that interests them, and to build skills,” said Maker Faire co-coordinator Casey Walker. “Students aren’t just building projects and skills; they are Continued on next page

Summer Camp

Demonstrations by the Robotics Club were among the exhibits at St. Thomas Aquinas High School’s second annual Maker Faire. Posing, from left, Victoria Poliseno, Ashley Perez, Sydney Zeszotarski, Jacob Pil and Laura Valdez-Tan. — Mike Kowalczyk photo STEM program can learn more at stahs.net/academics. And for a firsthand look, tours and interactive events

in the STEM Learning Lab will take place during the STA spring open house April 23 at 7 p.m.

SPRING OPEN HOUSE Thursday, April 23, 2020 7 p.m.

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

Calling all rising sixth-, seventhand eighth-grade students who are looking to kick off their summers with a fun (and air conditioned) adventure.

St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison, will be holding its annual Aquinas Academy June 22-26, where students can explore their interests in the fields of theater, forensics, photography, technology, and STEM while making new friends.

The weeklong summer camps will teach students new skills and are all led by STA teachers with the help of STA students.

Learn about the camps and how to register at stahs.net/summer.

Spaces are limited.

is a hub of activity both during and after the school day. During the day, classes such as Graphic Design, Principles of Engineering Design, and Intro to Engineering fill the space with experimentation, curiosity, and hands-on, collaborative learning. In the afternoon, the space is bustling with activity as students of all grade levels and interests participate in different club events or open lab, allowing them to work on personal interest projects under the supervision our highly trained STEM educators.

The STA Maker Faire was the culmination of years of curiosity, months of learning, and weeks of planning and preparation. It gave visitors a glimpse of the diverse talents and interests that are held by STA students, talents and interests that will evolve and improve as students learn and experiment more. And maybe someday contribute to changing the worlds of science, technology, engineering, art, or math.

Anyone interested in the STA

EDUCATION

building confidence. I’ve seen students who shy when they come into the program develop the confidence to hold the attention of groups and confidently instruct them on how to do a project. It means a lot to be able to take pride in your work and share that with others.

It’s even more memorable when you can teach what you’ve learned to your peers.”

Dan Mulvihill, STA director of STEM, added: “I was impressed by how many parents attend this year. We made an effort to reach out and let the parents in the STA community know that they were invited, and it was great to meet so many of our makers’ family members. I’m glad we got to give families a chance to see their students in their element.”

Not all students who were involved in the Maker Faire set up shop. As was also the case last year, there was a small band of student volunteers and leaders who worked alongside teachers and classmates to make the Maker Faire a reality. This year’s event allowed students to become even more empowered in leadership roles and to learn about project management. Megan Kibalo (’22) served as the event’s student coordinator, managing all the project data, delegated responsibilities, and communicated with each exhibitor just as much as the teachers did. Kibalo was backed up by a contingent of “STEM Techs,” a group of highly trained students who work in the Lab throughout the year and who put in countless hours to make this event a success.

The STA Maker Faire is a key component of STA’s broader STEM initiatives, which were inaugurated several years ago with the opening of its state-of-the-art STEM Learning Lab (also known as a Makerspace), featuring the latest hardware and tools such as a laser inscriber, 3D printer, power tools, touchscreen tablets, and more. The Lab

15

Continued from previous page

16 EDUCATION

Deceased members of school community remembered at Mass

By Anthony Salamone Correspondent SOMERVILLE — Once a Spartan, always a Spartan.

Nearly 400 people attended the 16th annual Spartan Memorial Mass Feb. 23 at Immaculata High School’s gymnasium. It has become a late-winter tradition that affords families and friends an opportunity to live that Spartan slogan -- to gather for prayer, hymns and fellowship, and fondly remember those who have died.

Retiring teacher Terry Lavin Kuboski recited the names of more than 30 people who died since last year’s Mass.

In all Immaculata has remembered about 500 alumni, faculty, benefactors and others since the school’s founding nearly six decades ago.

For Ken Creasy, time has not faded the loss he feels since the death of his brother more than 40 years ago. And for the Christie family, death came more recently — last September — to their son and brother, Eric Christie.

Creasy and his brother, Harry Creasy, were looking forward in the summer of 1978 to their senior year at Immaculata.

But that June, Harry Creasy died in an automobile accident.

“And we didn’t have crisis management back then,” recalled Creasy, holding back tears. “We didn’t have counselors

Msgr. Seamus F. Brennan raises the host during the consecration at the 16th annual Spartan Memorial Mass at Immaculata High School, Somerville. Father Tholitho, right, concelebrated; Deacon John Czekaj (Class of 1966), left, assisted. Altar servers were John Cavanaugh, ’21, back left, and Griffin Leger, ‘20. — Ed Koskey Jr. photo back then. It was all very new, very unfamiliar to us all.”

Creasy, who said he has attended each Mass, was one of three alumni from the class of 1979 who participated during the offering of gifts.

“I’m really awestruck by the amount of support …” Creasy said after the Mass.

He was heartened at seeing fellow class-

mates and others. “It means the world to me,” he said.

Meanwhile, Christie’s parents, family, and his best friend at Immaculata, Marc Dancy, expressed gratitude for the Mass of remembrance. A 1991 graduate, Eric Christie became an actor who appeared in television and film. And while he eventually moved to Los Angeles, he

never forgot his New Jersey roots.

Eric Christie’s death “is still pretty raw for us,” Dancy said. “But I felt like he would want me to be here.”

Many people participated in the Mass, which began with a procession featuring either family members or others connected to the deceased. They brought carnations in memory of loved ones, while others presented symbols representing deceased alumni from each decade.

Others carried symbols of the school’s four pillars (Scholarship, Service, Spirituality, and Friendship), the school’s recently launched Guardian Angel Scholarship Program, and the school’s mission from its seal: “Unitas and Caritas,” for “Unity and Charity”.

In his sermon, Msgr. Seamus F. Brennan, the school’s director, suggested a third word be added to the motto: truth, as he encouraged the faithful to truly “imitate the holiness of God.” “We are doing that today in a very special way,” said Msgr. Brennan, who is also pastor of Immaculate Conception Parish. “We try to live this every day as a community at Immaculata.

But of course, beyond the walls of the school, in our everyday lives, we are asked to live this.

“And we remember today that we are not only a community of the living, Continued on next page

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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“The older one was wobbly,” said Leger, who was looking for a project toward obtaining his Eagle Scout rank and is one of eight children in his family who have attended Immaculata. “So this is an improvement for the school.”

It is an improvement that, no doubt, builds on a unique legacy. It is a special memorial Mass that acknowledges individuals’ contributions to the Somerset County school, and who have passed from this world to the promise of eternal life.

Currently, about 450 students from 47 parishes in seven counties attend Immaculata.

EDUCATION

but we are in fact a community that involves also the saints in heaven. Those who’ve gone before us are very much united with us. Today, we pray for them. We remember them fondly. We ask the Lord’s mercy on them and that they would share the fullness of life.”

In remarks before the final blessing, Kuboski invoked quotes from authors and the Bible, citing one passage she believes the 500 deceased Spartans want to teach others.

It came from Psalm 118: “My strength and courage is in the Lord.”

“Comfort yourself in picking one thing we enjoyed together and do it,” said Kuboski in behalf of the deceased. “Think of one quality you admired about me and embrace it. Wrap yourselves with your memories and put your faith in God, and as true Spartans, march on. Be guided by Jesus’ words: ‘Come to me, all you who are weary and burdened and I will give you rest.’ (Mt 11:28)” Kuboski, a 1969 graduate, approached Msgr. Brennan about holding a memorial Mass after the death of her brother, Tom Lavin, class of 1972. “I said, ‘Yes, let’s go for it,’” recalled monsignor, as he recognized Kuboski for her efforts. “I have to acknowledge that I wasn’t confident that it would endure as it has. But it has grown to become a significant event.”

Msgr. Brennan also told the congregation that he celebrated Mass on a new altar built by senior Griffin Leger. The stained-stained altar includes hinges for easy folding with the words Unitas and

17

Continued from previous page

Top, a friend and family of the late Eric Christie, Immaculata High Class of 1991, pose after the Spartan Memorial Mass (from left): Marc Dancy and wife, Michelle Caban-Dancy; Karen Christie, Erin Christie, Bob Christie and Karen Chmielowicz, Eric’s aunt. Right, Terry Lavin Kuboski, ’69, director of communications who helped establish the Mass, speaks to the attendees (above), shown earlier shown listening to the homily. — Ed Koskey Jr. photos

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18 EDUCATION Above, students from Rutgers University perform a skit to provide some comic relief with a message to ponder. Right, Sister Margaret Michael, a member of the Daughters of Saint Paul, Staten Island, N.Y., gives a talk. Among the topics she discussed were God’s love and mercy and to not be afraid to admit their sins.

Below, participants at the retreat sit in silence before the Eucharist during adoration.

By Karen Corpora and Kyra Stevko

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

— Brother Joe Donovan, Jeremy Murante and Kyra Kevko photos

Left, Father Jason Pavich, parochial vicar, St. Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish, New Brunswick, gives the homily at Mass. Above, among the facilities available at Camp Tecumseh is a prayer room.

ALEXANDRIA — About 100 students from Rutgers University, New Brunswick, participated in an annual retreat sponsored by the college’s Catholic Center at Camp Tecumseh Feb. 21-23.

The retreats are offered twice a year and provide the students with the opportunity to take a break the stress of school and rekindle their relationship with God. The theme for the spring semester retreat was “INHERITANCE.” The Catholic Center sponsors events throughout the year, including Bible study, discussion groups and social events. It staff focuses on building relationships with the students and encouraging those currently attending to invite others to join.

Michelle Nguyen, one of the codirectors said, “My hope for the weekend is that everyone will have a deeper relationship with God the Holy Spirit and know that the members of the Catholic Student Association will always be there for them at any time they need us.”

The Center is affiliated with Saint Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish. Its members and Saint Paul’s Outreach Missionaries (SPO) engage with students who attend Sunday Mass and also work on campus to meet students who do not attend Mass regularly or visit the Catholic Center.

On Feb. 22, activities featured a talk

by Sister Margaret Michael, a member of the Daughters of Saint Paul in Staten Island, N.Y. “Who do people say that Jesus is?

What have you been hearing about him?”

Then she asked, “Who do you say that Jesus is?

“Our parents and godparents said, ‘yes,’ for us when we were young. But

have you said your ‘yes’ to him, or are you still riding on their ‘yes?’”

Sister Margaret spoke about God’s love and his desire for a relationship with them.

“God has compassion and mercy on us. His mercy and forgiveness are consistent. Go to him. Don’t be afraid to admit your sins. His love and mercy are waiting for you,” she said.

Oscar Robles, one of the missionar“The only ies, spoke to the men the cycle o attending the retreat about overcomand resentme ing roadblocks that for someone may arise that could prevent them from courage to p saying yes to Jesus.

Some obvious roadon it. That i blocks to saying yes giveness. Wh are sin, unbelief and fear.

Lord say we “We need to say, doormats for ‘Lord, here is my sin, please forgive me and don’t have to help me to turn away tim. For Jesu from it. Take my life and change my heart his disciples, f so I can get past the fear and say yes,’” a sign of stren Robles said. speaking abo The attendees also had time to share about spiritua and enjoy fellowship.

—Father Ja Talks were given by alumni, invited guests and Catholic Center staff. Witness talks were also given by members of the student retreat team.

Other activities included Eucharistic adoration, small-group discussion, Mass and the sacrament of reconciliation.

The SPO missionaries connected

19 EDUCATION — Brother Joe Donovan and Jeremy Murante photos

Above, students engage in the opening ice-breaker of the Spring Retreat. Right, Brother Patrick Stucker, a member of the Brotherhood of Hope, leads the Evening Prayer Feb. 22. During the retreat, talks were given by alumni, invited guests and Catholic Center staff. Witness talks were also given by members of the student retreat team. Other activities included Mass, Eucharistic adoration, small-group discussions and the sacrament of reconciliation.

MARCH 19, 2020

the good news with others, “that Jesus died on the cross for us and loves us and knows us and made us in our womb and wants a relationship with us.”

“We have to tell people,” she said.

“Our brothers and sisters on campus, they’re starving. They’re so hungry. And I’ve been them, I’ve been that girl on campus, starving for love. For someone to notice them. And guess what? We have the good news. We have the answer. It’s Jesus.”

Father Jason Pavich, parochial vicar, St. Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish, presided and gave the homily at Mass.

In his homily, Father Pavich discussed Matthew 5:38-48, which includes the line: “If anyone slaps you on the right cheek, turn to them the other cheek also,” and the idea of an “eye for an eye” or retaliation.

“The only way to end the cycle of retaliation and resentment and sin is for someone to have the courage to pull the plug on it. That is called forgiveness,” he said. “Where does the Lord say we have to be doormats for people? We don’t have to be the victim. For Jesus Christ and his disciples, forgiveness is a sign of strength. Jesus is speaking about maturity, about spiritual maturity.

“God does not want us to simply react, he wants us to respond. And he wants us to respond as a Christian does, not as a little baby… responding takes maturity, it takes thought, it takes strength, and it takes control.

“We all know people who are filled with resentment, constantly living in the past, and they hold a grudge. But they really don’t hold the grudge, the grudge holds them.

“Forgiveness may or not bring healing to others, but it will always heal us, and it will always set us free”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

with students after Mass and when manning the coffee table on campus. They get to know people, invite them to Mass or meet up with them one on one to invite them to attend the retreat.

In a talk Feb. 23, Monica Butler, chapter leader for CSA, said, “Imagine the seat next to you is empty, and Jesus is there. What would be better?

“The good news is that God wants us to succeed so he gives us a lot of tools y way to end to help,” she said of retaliation about prayer, Scripture, sacraments, ent and sin is community and mise to have the sion.

“Prayer is a pull the plug conversation with your best friend. You is called forcan’t get to know here does the someone if you’re not talking to them. e have to be Scripture, she r people? We reminded the students, “is literally o be the vicGod’s word to us.” us Christ and Regarding sacraments, she told the forgiveness is students to think of Catholics who live in ngth. Jesus is communist countries, out maturity, where some people go “underground to have al maturity.”

Mass.” ason Pavich “We can go to masstimes.org and find a million Masses within 10 miles of us. That is rich. We are so incredibly blessed,” she said.

Community, she said, helps us live a Christian life.

“I need you all to help me get to heaven. I can’t do it alone,” she said.

Mission requires the faithful to share

Middle of pages, attendees and staff from The Catholic Center at Rutgers University pose at the annual Spring Retreat for Rutgers students, held this year from Feb. 21 to 23. Above, a smaller group of retreatants pose for a photo at the event, which is sponsored by the Catholic Center. Left, Msgr. Joseph G. Celano, pastor, St. Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish, New Brunswick, reflects on the role of the Holy Spirit in the lives of the faithful and how His gifts equip them for missionary discipleship in the world.

20 EDUCATION

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EDUCATION

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Students from Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen, make sandwiches for local food pantries for a Lenten service project. Students from Mount Saint Mary Academy, Watchung, also participated in the after-school project.

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Students from Saint Joseph High School, “It’s always great to see our students Metuchen, and Mount Saint Mary Acad- giving back to the local community, and emy, Watchung, joined forces Feb. 28 for for this many of them to choose to give a Lenten service project to make sand- up their free time and stay at school is just wiches for local food pantries. amazing,” said Tracey Coudriet, the CamThe 120 students assembled more than pus Ministry leader at Saint Joe’s. “We 2,500 ham and cheese, turwere also so glad that this key and cheese, and plain “Last year, one of the year we were able to have cheese sandwiches in just Mount Saint Mary Acadstudents wanted to emy join us in this event.” over one hour.

The ingredients for Saint Joseph High the sandwiches were break the Guinness School is a Catholic, pridonated by the parents record for making vate, all-boys college preof the Saint Joseph and paratory school operated sandwiches. We Mount Saint Mary Acadby the Brothers of the Saemy students. didn’t break it, but cred Heart, who have been “Last year, one of active in American educait’s becoming an the students wanted to tion since their arrival from break the Guinness record France, in 1847. annual event at the Lyons,Last for making sandwiches. year, Saint We didn’t break it, but Joseph’s 147 graduating start of Lent.” it’s becoming an annual seniors cumulatively re— Charles Neri event at the start of Lent,” ceived more than $34.1 said Charles Neri, a social million in scholarships. studies teacher at Saint Joseph High School Mount Saint Mary Academy is who was one of the supervisors at the event. Catholic, private, all-girls secondary “It’s also a great way for Saint Joe’s school sponsored by the Sisters of Mercy guys and Mount Saint Mary girls to get to- of the Americas and rooted in the tradition gether and work toward a common goal.” of their foundress, Venerable Catherine After the service project, the students McAuley. stayed for a social which was held in the Last year, Mount Saint Mary’s 97 Saint Joe’s Vincent Maglio Gymnasium graduating seniors cumulatively received where they were able to enjoy food and more than $23 million in scholarships and camaraderie. grants.

22 EDUCATION

Students from two schools in diocese recognized for achievements TRENTON — Immaculata High state to create a STEM-based project School, Somerville, and St. Augustine centered on the theme, “Our Catholic of Canterbury School, Kendall Park, Schools use STEM to solve a school, joined schools from the five Catholic local community, or global problem.” dioceses in the state to showcase their “I’m so proud of all the Catholic STEM (science, technolschools that represented ogy, engineering, maththe values of Catholic “I’m so proud of education while organiematics) projects at the State House Jan. 27. cally integrating those all the Catholic Religious Teacher values into STEM inFilippini Sister Mary novations,” said Sister schools that Louise Shulas, principal, Mary Louise. represented the St. Augustine of CanSpeaking to their terbury School, beamed values of Catholic peers and school offiwith pride as four of her cials from the dioceses education while in the state, as well as students presented their recycled hydroponic interested parties and organically insystem to a standinglegislators, the students room only crowd on the tegrating those presented their recycled second day of Catholic hydroponic system, values into STEM which has already yieldSchools Week.

The students of St. ed a tomato. In addition innovations.”

Augustine of Canterto Sister Mary Louise —Religious Teachers bury School, one of the and several other school Filippini Sister Mary 23 Catholic elementary representatives, the stuLouise Shulas schools in the counties dents were joined at the served by the diocese — State House by their sciMiddlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon and ence and social studies teacher, WilWarren — were selected as winners of liam Tackett, who oversaw the project. a poster and video contest sponsored Sister Mary Louise said the ultiby the New Jersey Network of Catho- mate goal of the project is to create a lic School Families. hydroponic vegetable garden to benThe contest challenged Catho- efit the St. Augustine’s Food Pantry lic school students from around the and the greater community.

Immaculata High School, Somerville, students were recognized at the State House for their STEM projects during Catholic Schools Week.

— Tara Smith photo

“Our students today are creating a better future for the greater community, while following the example of the Master Teacher, Jesus Christ,” said Sister Mary Louise.

For the past five years, Immaculata years, Immaculata students have built and provided portable suitcase-

Saint Helena School

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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sized solar generators to non-electrified or electricity deficient areas around the world. The solar suitcases have been distributed to schools in the Philippines and Tanzania, a seminary in Liberia, and in Puerto Rico, following one of the recent hurricanes there.

Continued on next page

Continued from page 21

er,” said Bishop James F. Checchio.

“When a student is enrolled in a Catholic school, the entire family becomes a part of that school community.”

As the shepherd of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen, Bishop Checchio regularly visits the Catholic schools in the diocese.

“One of my great joys as the Bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen is to be able to spend time with our students, as I have this past week,” said Bishop Checchio. “I am continually impressed by our students. Their enthusiasm is contagious and so, they always raise my spirits and remind me of what is important in our Diocese and in our lives.”

The bishop made several visits to St. James School, Basking Ridge; St. Matthew School, Edison; and he celebrated Mass at The School of St. Elizabeth at Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Bernardsville.

“Our Catholic schools exist, primarily, to teach the Gospel message and enliven our students to have a personal relationship with Jesus, who is their hope and companion for life,” said Bishop Checchio. “These schools are intended to be places where the everyday lessons of academic life are taught within the context of the message of God’s love for us and our ex-

EDUCATION

“When the students learned that one of the suitcases would be sent to a seminary, they expressed awe that because of reliable electricity, young men were going to be ordained sooner into the priesthood and so would be able to spread the word of God to more people, more quickly,” said Maureen Cote, campus ministry director, who helped guide the students alongside engineering teacher Al Kedersha.

“The ripple effect of the gift of electricity to those who previously had none, will probably never be fully known, but what our students do know is that they have served the least of their brothers through the use of technology in a far-reaching, remarkable manner,” said Cote.

The presentation at the State House was held during the 46th annual Catholic Schools Week, a national celebration of Catholic school education.

Schools across the nation marked the occasion with special liturgies, open houses, assemblies, geography bees, book fairs, athletic events and other activities for students, families, parishioners and community members.

“The benefit of a Catholic school education is that the message is for all of us — parents, teachers, as well as students, and so we celebrate it togeth-

23

STEM projects showcased at Catholic Schools Week event at State House

St. Augustine of Canterbury School, Kendall Park, students are recognized at the State House for their recycled hydroponic system STEM project.

— Tara Smith photo

pression of that love by our actions in the world.”

Dr. Robert Lockwood, superintendent, diocesan Office of Schools, said Catholic school students make God’s love known to others and positively impact society daily through their service to the community.

“Last year our students collec-

tively provided more than 60,000 community service hours,” he said.

For more information about enrolling a child or to find out how to help support the privately-funded programs that provide tuition assistance to lowand moderate-income families in the diocese, visit diometuchen.org/schools or call (732) 562-2446.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

24 EDUCATION

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WORLD & NATION

Compiled from the Catholic News Service

Churches in India asked to welcome riot victims

Pope Francis named, from left, Msgr. Gregory J. Studerus, Benedictine Father Elias R. Lorenzo, former vicar for the Diocese of Metuchen’s Office for Religious, and Father Michael A. Saporito, to be auxiliary bishops of the Archdiocese of Newark. The appointments were announced in Washington, D.C., Feb. 27, by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States. — CNS photo/courtesy Archdiocese of Newark

People supporting a new citizenship law and those opposing the law throw stones at each other during a clash in New Delhi Feb. 23. Christian leaders from different denominations in New Delhi have condemned the communal violence and asked churches to open their doors to victims of the riots.

WASHINGTON — Pope Francis has appointed Father Ramon Bejarano, a priest of the Diocese of Stockton, Calif., to be an auxiliary bishop of San Diego. He also has named three New Jersey priests — Msgr.

Gregory J. Studerus, Benedictine Father Elias R. Lorenzo, former vicar of the Diocese of Metuchen’s Office for Religious; and Father Michael A. Saporito — to be auxiliary bishops of the Archdiocese of Newark. The appointments were announced Feb. 27 by Archbishop Christophe Pierre, apostolic nuncio to the United States.

Bishop-designate Bejarano, 50, has been

NEW DELHI — Christian leaders in New Delhi have condemned the communal violence in the Indian capital and asked churches to open their doors to victims of the riots. The violence that started Feb. 23 in several areas of northeast Delhi has left 27 people dead and more than 200 injured in the deadliest episode of unrest in the capital in three decades, reported . “At this trying moment, when communal riots have suddenly gripped Delhi, let us come forward with our prayers and every possible effort to bring relief to the affected people in terms of shelter, food

pastor of St. Stanislaus Church in Modesto, Calif., since 2008. Fluent in English and Spanish, he was ordained a priest for the Stockton Diocese Aug. 15, 1998. In New Jersey, Bishop-designate Studerus, 71, and Bishop-designate Saporito, 57, are priests of the Newark Archdiocese. Bishop-designate Lorenzo, 59, is a monk of St. Mary’s Abbey in Morristown in the Paterson Diocese, and abbot president of the American Cassinese Benedictine Congregation, an association of Benedictine monasteries in the United States, Puerto Rico, Brazil, Canada, Colombia, Mexico and Taiwan.

WORLD & NATION

Pope names auxiliaries for San Diego, Newark

— CNS photo/Akash Jain, Reuters

and clothing,” said an appeal letter from Archbishop Anil Couto of Delhi. In his letter to parish priests, Archbishop Couto said churches should open their premises “for this noble cause in the Lenten season. Please convey this to our people and organize them for action.” The three days of violence were the worst unrest since the 1992 nationwide riots following the demolition of the Babri mosque in Ayodhya, and possibly since the antiSikh riots of 1984 after the assassination of then-Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, media reports said.

Diocese of Metuchen takes precautions to prevent spread of COVID-19 suspended. Furthermore, no member of the faithful is obliged to receive the Body of Christ on the tongue; worthy, reverent reception by hand is preferred until otherwise notified.

“Any time there is a serious outbreak that poses a risk to public health, pastors in the Diocese of Metuchen are asked to monitor the progression of the outbreak and take any and all necessary precautions in their own parishes to prevent the spread of infection,” said Anthony P. Kearns III, Esq., spokesperson and chancellor for the Diocese of Metuchen. “As Catholics, we believe that the true body and blood of our Lord, together with his soul and divinity, exist under the forms of bread and/or wine,” said Kearns.

The general message from the Centers for Disease Control and the National Institutes of Health is that all should be prepared, but not panicked. The diocese will continue to monitor advisories from Catholic and other organizations regarding precautions on the coronavirus and share any appropriate information with the faithful and the parishes.

“As communities across the globe respond to the coronavirus, we stand in solidarity with them and pray for all those af-

fected by the coronavirus and those health workers diligently working to combat the disease,” said Kearns.

On Feb. 18, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops; Catholic Relief Services, and the Catholic Health Association of the United States issued a joint statement in response to the outbreak of the coronavirus: As communities and public health officials respond to the outbreak of novel coronavirus (COVID-19) in China and closely monitor its presence and progression in other parts of the world, we join in solidarity and prayer for those impacted or working to treat those infected by the disease. The U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, Catholic Relief Services, and the Catholic Health Association of the United States hope that governments will work together in partnership to improve all nations’ capacity to prevent, detect, and respond to this virus.

The Catholic Church in the United States stands in solidarity with those affected by the coronavirus and their families, health workers who are valiantly trying to diagnose and treat patients, and those under quarantine awaiting results of their screening for the virus. We offer our prayers for

healing and support those organizations, both domestic and international, working to provide medical supplies and assistance to address this serious risk to public health.

In early February, the Holy See sent 700,000 respiratory masks to China to help prevent the spread of the disease. Within the United States, Catholic healthcare providers are at the front line of providing treatment and care to those impacted by the virus.

We also commend the U.S. government for transporting more than 17 tons of donated medical supplies to China.

This response to the novel coronavirus demonstrates the critical importance of the need to work together and to invest in crucial health care systems here and in other countries, thus preventing and responding to community-wide emergencies. We urge the U.S. Congress to support these efforts by protecting access to domestic health care safety net programs and by providing additional emergency international assistance to areas impacted by the virus.

We also urge individuals to stay informed as information becomes available by going to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention at www.cdc.gov/ COVID19.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

PISCATAWAY — Amid growing national concern over the spread of the coronavirus, the Diocese of Metuchen has enacted measures in parishes across its four counties as a precaution.

Bishop James F. Checchio has issued the following directives on liturgical practices to be observed in all parishes, institutions and organizations within the Diocese of Metuchen, effective immediately until otherwise notified: • As is practiced in so many of our parishes already, priests, deacons, and extraordinary ministers of Holy Communion are urged to practice good hygiene, washing their hands and using anti-bacterial hand sanitizer before and after distributing Holy Communion.

• Any individual who is sick or has flu-like symptoms should not attend Mass or other Church gatherings. Mass is broadcast on several television channels and also livestreamed on the Cathedral’s website: , so the sick can make a “spiritual communion” until they return to good health.

• The sign of peace should be exchanged without physical contact.

• Distribution of the Precious Blood of Christ from the chalice is to be

26 OUR DIOCESE

Spirituality of marriage, ‘Theology of Body’ topics of meeting RARITAN BOROUGH — Cristina D’Averso-Collins, director, diocesan Office of Family Life Ministry, and her husband, Brian, were guest speakers at “Date Nights for a Joy Filled Marriage” meeting at St. Ann Parish Feb. 8, the eve of World Marriage Day. The event, which was hosted by the Saint Ann Regional Catholic Marriage Ministry, was attended by more than 20 dating, engaged and married couples.

Members of the Somerville Catholic Young Adult Group assisted at the event.

Oratorian Father Thomas A. Odorizzi, pastor, St. Ann’s and chaplain, welcomed the attendees and gave an opening prayer.

He thanked the couples for their spousal commitment and their witness. Father Odorizzi reminded them that the true meaning of marriage, as a sacrament, comes from the inner life of the Holy Trinity, the communion of persons, who lovingly give and receive the total gift of self. In God, the gift is so complete, the persons, distinct through relationship, share one and the same essence or being.

Father Odorizzi encouraged the married couples, saying that their unity with God and each other are living examples to countless young couples who are discerning their own vocation to the sacrament of marriage. He also reminded them that their marriage relationships reflect Christ’s sacrificial love for his bride, the Church.

The theme for the fourth Saint Ann Regional Catholic Ministry event was “Marriage is Adventure, Love is a Decision.”

Brian and Cristina, who were married on the Feast Day of Our Lady of Mount Carmel in 2016, shared their own

adventure stories beginning with how they met and included recollections of amusing stories while they were dating.

Brian recognized and felt that on many occasions, while they were dating, that the inspiration and intersession of the Holy Spirit was very active in their discernment to get married.

They shared how, as a couple, they were greatly encouraged and inspired by studying St. John Paul II’s spiritual insights contained in “Theology of the Body.” While studying “Theology of the Body,” they were inspired by the Holy Father’s description of the virtue of marital chastity and the joy that it can bring into couples’ relationships. As they continued to read and discuss more chapters in the book, they began to understand more fully what Jesus meant when He commanded, that “… the two shall become one flesh” (Mt 19:4).

Basically, this is a call to each spouse to freely decide to offer themselves 100 percent in total donation to each other as a gift, in the full unobstructed, natural, unity of the nuptial embrace, bringing indescribable joy to each other.

The couples love for each other reflects the love and self-sacrifice of Christ for his bride, the Church.

They shared how knowing this truth had such a positive effect in their own marriage adventure and in their growth of love for God and each other.

They were excited to share with the couples that the “Theology of the Body,” wonderfully explains, in a lifegiving way, why a contraceptive mentality and contraception itself is a grave sin against the covenant of marriage, which is the free, total, fruitful gift of self.

By trusting and faithfully seeking God’s plan, Brian and Cristina came to appreciate the personal awareness of each other’s unique, God-given gift of fertility. This, along with the practice of marital Chastity, when necessary, brought a true sense of wonder and joy.

Such a collaborating and cooperative expression of love for each other keeps romance and deepens their couple unity.

They expressed that it is this practicing of the true meaning of the sacrament, intended by God, reveals the beauty and goodness of the sacrament of marriage and which cultivates a deeper, persevering love between them as spouses.

Brian and Cristina are graduates of Villanova University (Pa.) and The John Paul II Pontifical Institute for Marriage and Family Studies, Washington, D.C., where they earned master’s degrees in Theological Studies. Cristina also earned a master of science in psychology degree at Divine Mercy University, Sterling, Va. Cristina also serves as a campus minister at Monmouth University, West Long Branch.

Brian is a software developer for the federal government and works on many ministerial projects in his free time.

Together, they facilitate the FOCCUS Inventory for couples preparing for marriage and will be assisting with diocesan marriage preparation sessions beginning in March.

The Saint Ann Regional Catholic Marriage Ministry strives to serve and provide support and continuing formation for Catholic Couples as they live their vocation in the sacrament of marriage as well as for those people in the process of discerning a call to the voca-

Cristina D’Averso-Collins, right, director, diocesan Office of Family Life, is shown with her husband, Brian, and daughter, Gianna Maria, at “Date Nights for a Joy Filled Marriage” at St. Ann Parish.

— Oratorian Father Thomas A. Odorizzi photo

tion of marriage.

The next “Date Nights for a Joy Filled Marriage” is June 6. For information and reservations, call Ken and Madeline Swartz at (908) 872-0282.

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Member of parish in diocese appointed to board at Saint Peter’s NEW BRUNSWICK — Brian Regan of Somerset has been named to Saint Peter’s Foundation Board of Trustees, the fundraising arm of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, which also includes Saint Peter’s University Hospital.

“I am very honored to receive this board appointment from Bishop James Checchio of the Diocese of Metuchen,” said Regan. “As a member of St. Matthias Parish in Somerset since 1987 and past patient at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, I am aware of its wonderful service to the surrounding communities. I am hopeful that I can use my nearly 40 years of technical, managerial and financial experience to meet its Catholic mission, specifically, its ‘commitment to humble service to humanity, especially the poor, through competence and good stewardship of resources.’”

Regan is currently employed by the Franklin Township Sewerage Authority as executive director, where he is responsible for the strategic and tactical operation of the agency. In addition to serving as an active member of his parish, he served for eight years as a councilman

in Franklin Township, including one year as its deputy mayor. During his tenure on the Council, he consistently served as a member of the Finance and Public Safety Committees. His contributions to the community were also evidenced by his participation as a member of the ParentTeacher Organization while his children attended public school and his service as an assistant Scout leader, soccer coach and Little League coach.

“We are honored to have Brian join the Saint Peter’s Foundation Board of Trustees,” said Leslie D. Hirsch, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System. “Brian brings to the position a unique blend of public service and a long-standing commitment to his Catholic faith, a combination that will benefit the Foundation and its ongoing fundraising efforts.”

A humble individual that does not seek recognition, one of Regan’s most widely recognized contributions to the community occurred in the days following the Sandy Hook Elementary School shootings. He and then-Franklin Township Chief of Police

Lawrence Roberts took it upon themselves to conduct a tour of all the township schools to ensure they had solid security plans in place and ready to be implemented.

“A true man of service, in both secular and spiritual arenas, Brian will be a tremendous asset to the Foundation Board of Trustees, and we look forward to working with him,” said James Choma, vice president for Catholic Mission and chief development officer for Saint Peter’s Healthcare System.

Saint Peter’s Healthcare System Inc., parent company of the Saint Peter’s healthcare delivery system, is comprised of Saint Peter’s University Hospital, a 478-bed acute-care teaching hospital and state-designated children’s hospital and regional perinatal center; Saint Peter’s Foundation, the fundraising arm of the hospital; Saint Peter’s Health and Management Services Corp., which oversees outpatient facilities, including the CARES Surgicenter; and Saint Peter’s Physician Associates, a network of primary and specialty care physician practices. Saint Peter’s Healthcare System is sponsored by the diocese and is a major clinical af-

Brian Regan, a new member of Saint Peter's Foundation's Board of Trustees, is a member of St. Matthias Parish, Somerset. filiate of Rutgers Biomedical Health and Sciences.

For more information about Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, visit saintpetershcs.com or call (732) 745-8600.

Family Care Placement,

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service The Israelites wanted to have a king to rule over them, so God anointed Saul as the first king of Israel.

But Saul wound up doing what was evil in God’s sight, and God regretted making Saul king.

So, God sent the prophet Samuel on a mission.

“Fill your horn with oil, and be on your way. I am sending you to Jesse of Bethlehem, for I have cho- “Threre -- anoint him, for this is the one!.” God told sen my king from among his Samuel.

— CNS artwork sons,” God told the prophet.

“How can I go? Saul will hear of it and kill me,” Samuel said. or from his lofty stature, because I have “Take a heifer along and say, ‘I rejected him. Not as man sees does God have come to sacrifice to the Lord.’ see, because man sees the appearance, Invite Jesse to the sacrifice, and I my- but the Lord looks into the heart,” God self will tell you what to do; you are told Samuel. to anoint for me the one I point out to “Are these all the sons you have?” you,” God replied.

Samuel asked after meeting seven of Samuel traveled to Bethlehem. As Jesse’s sons, none of whom God chose. he entered the city, the elders came up to “There is still the youngest, who is him to ask whether his visit was going tending the sheep,” Jesse replied. to be a peaceful one.

“Send for him; we will not begin “Yes! I have come to sacrifice to the sacrificial banquet until he arrives the Lord. So, purify yourselves and cel- here,” the prophet said. ebrate with me today,” Samuel told the David was brought before Samuel. elders. He also had Jesse and his sons David was a handsome youth and made purify themselves and invited them to a splendid appearance. the sacrifice.

“There -- anoint him, for this is the At the sacrifice, Jesse presented one!” God told Samuel. his sons to Samuel one by one. Samuel Samuel took the horn of oil and thought for sure that Jesse’s eldest son, anointed David in the midst of his Eliab, would be chosen by God. brothers, and from that day on, the spirit “Do not judge from his appearance of the Lord rushed upon David.

READ MORE ABOUT IT: 1 Samuel 16

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TRIVIA: What Philistine champion did David defeat? (Hint: 1 Samuel 17)

Answers: 1. T; 2. T; 3. F; 4. T

OUR FAITH

28

Are relics 'macabre'?/ Divorce or abuse?

I am a Catholic convert and support all the dogmas of the Church.

But there is one practice that I must admit gives me pause -- the use of relics, preserving the body parts of

Q

Pope Francis

AUDIENCE

Question Corner

March 11, 2020 Dear Brothers and Sisters: In our continuing catechesis on the Beatitudes, we now turn to the fourth Beatitude: “Blessed are those who hunger and thirst for righteousness, for they shall be satisfied” (Mt 5:6). Jesus speaks not only of hungering and thirsting for personal and social justice, but also points to a deeper yearning for righteousness in the eyes of God. Psalm 63 expresses this thirst thus: “O God, you are my God, I pine for you; my heart thirsts for you” (v. 1). Saint Augustine puts it similarly: “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in you” (Confessions, I, 1). This desire lies within every human heart and finds its fulfilment in Christ, who through the paschal mystery has reconciled us to the Father and calls us to share with everyone the Good News of our justification. The Beatitude promises us that by promoting justice in this highest sense, we will find true satisfaction, for our thirsting for righteousness will be quenched by the love God pours out upon his children.

Prayer for the Sick

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Watch, O Lord, with those who wake, or watch, or weep tonight, and give your angels charge over those who sleep.

Tend your sick ones, O Lord Christ.

Rest your weary ones.

Bless your dying ones.

Soothe your suffering ones.

Pity your afflicted ones.

Shield your joyous ones.

And for all your love's sake. Amen.

By Father Kenneth Doyle deceased saints. I could see honoring robes or rings, but teeth or fingers seems a bit too much, bordering on the macabre. We never covered this in our RCIA program, and I'm hoping that you can explain. (New Middletown, Indiana) The veneration of the relics of saintly individuals has a long history -- dating back to preChristian times. The bones of the Old Testament prophet Elisha once brought a dead man to life [2 Kgs 13:20-21].

Then, when St. Polycarp was martyred in the middle of the second century, a contemporary account stated: “We took up his bones, which are more valuable than precious stones and finer than refined gold, and laid them in a suitable place, where the Lord will permit us to gather ourselves

A

together as we are able, in gladness and joy, and to celebrate the birthday of his martyrdom.”

In venerating relics, the Church is not ascribing to them any magical powers, although they may sometimes serve as occasions of God's miracles. More often, they simply dispose those who view them to strive to live the virtues of that particular saint.

Perhaps St. Jerome, who lived in the late fourth and early fifth centuries, gave the clearest explanation of relics when he wrote in “Ad Riparium”: "We do not worship (relics), we do not adore (them), for fear that we should bow down to the creature rather than to the Creator. But we venerate the relics of the martyrs in order to better adore him whose martyrs they are.”

What would you say to a married woman who has endured verbal abuse in every way possible for more than a dozen years? It is affecting me mentally, spiritually and physically, and I cannot take it any longer. (It is also affecting my young daughter, who receives the same sort of treatment from her father.)

I was married by a priest in the Catholic Church and have sought to live up to the Church’s teachings. Would it be wrong in the eyes of the Church to seek a divorce for the sake of my own health and that of my

Q

daughter? (City of origin withheld)

The Catholic Church believes that marriage is meant to be a permanent union and that Jesus intended it to be so (Mt 19:36). But it is also true that divorce may not always be sinful. In fact, the Catechism of the Catholic Church says: “If civil divorce remains the only possible way of ensuring certain legal rights, the care of the children or the protection of inheritance, it can be tolerated and does not constitute a moral offense” (No. 2383).

So it could be that the ongoing emotional violence that you and your daughter have been forced to undergo might justify a separation and divorce. But the wounds from a divorce are wide, and you would want to take every prudent step before it comes to that.

Have you sought out a marriage counselor and encouraged your husband to do the same? My bias, I confess, is for counseling offered by Church agencies, since they would share my views of the sanctity of marriage. And have you sought to bring God into the equation by frequent prayer?

And please know that you have the promise of my own prayers as well.

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

A

Work can be force for great good or evil

Much has been written about communication, its many methods, its purpose, its value, its effects. As a Catholic writer whose faith frames so much of what is written, I sometimes lose my bearings, usually when I have let anger or frustration get the better of me, or when I have been neglectful of my prayer life.

Things My Father Taught Me

By Mary Morrell When that happens I reread the deeply insightful thoughts of St. John Paul II, who was addressing members of the media when he said: “Your work can be a force for great good or great evil.

You yourselves know the dangers, as well as the splendid opportunities open to you. Communication products can be works of great beauty, revealing what is noble and uplifting in humanity and promoting what is just and fair and true.

On the other hand, communications can appeal to and promote what is debased in people … All the media of popular culture which you represent can build or destroy, uplift or cast down.

“You have untold possibilities for good, ominous possibilities for destruction. It is the difference between death

and life – the death or life of the spirit. championed the poor and delivered a And it is a matter of choice. The chal- consistent, powerful message against the lenge of Moses to the people of Israel is brutal violence being perpetrated from applicable to all of us all sides on those who today: “‘I set before you were most vulnerable: On the other hand, “A… gospel that does life and death.... Choose life.’” not unsettle, a word of I have learned that I believe I could God that does not get search the depths of the sometimes works of under anyone’s skin, a Internet and not find word of God that does anything more mean- great good, revealing, not touch the real sin of ingful about the power or reminding us, what society in which it is being proclaimed – what of how and what we is noble and uplifting gospel is that?” communicate.

And then there is On the other hand, in humanity, some- Thomas I have learned that Merton, the sometimes works of times require present- Trappist monk whose understanding of the great good, revealing, or reminding us, what ing challenging ideas; deeper meaning of is noble and uplifting ideas strong enough communication could in humanity, sometimes change the world if we require presenting chal- to overturn long-held could just embrace it: lenging ideas; ideas prejudices or miscon- “The deepest level of strong enough to overcommunication is not turn long-held prejudic- ceptions, reminiscent communication, but es or misconceptions, communion. It is wordof Jesus’ teaching reminiscent of Jesus’ less. It is beyond words. teaching during his during his three years It is beyond speech. It three years of ministry. is beyond concept. Not of ministry.

Sometimes when I that we discover a new forget that Jesus was not unity, but we discover all flowers and sunsets, an old unity. My dear but was also the storm whose swirling brothers and sisters, we are already one. waters changed the landscape, I remind But we imagine we are not. And what myself of the words of Blessed Oscar we have to recover is our original unity.

Romero, the Salvadoran archbishop who What we have to be, is what we are.”

29

Live as children of the light

SCRIPTURE STUDY

By Msgr. John N. Fell and new also characterizes our Gospel reading this Fourth Sunday of Lent. In this account of the healing of the Man Born Blind, St. John contrasts the in-breaking light of Jesus with the darkness of the Pharisees in an interplay of sight and blindness. It is interesting that evidence found in the Roman catacombs suggests that this Gospel story has been used in preparing candidates for baptism since the early second century (ca. 140 AD). As a baptismal instruction, this story describes the role that Christ will henceforth play in the new Christians’ lives — He who eternally is light will enlighten them to walk in his goodness and share this light with others. Having been baptized into Christ, they too will shine forth as lights in the darkness of the world. As St. Paul says to the newly baptized, “You were once darkness, but now you are light in the Lord. Live as children of the light, for light produces every kind of goodness and righteousness and truth” (Eph 5:8-9). In fact, an ancient synonym for baptism was enlightenment or illumination.

Earlier in St. John’s Gospel, Jesus had revealed himself as “the Light of the World” (Jn 8:12). In this healing miracle, we see the effects and possible responses to this Light. The narrative begins with the disciples asking Jesus whether the man’s blindness was a result of his sin or that of his parents (the contemporary belief was that blindness and other physical maladies were divinely inflicted punishments for one’s sins or those of a family member). Jesus clarified that the man’s blindness was due neither to his nor his parents’ sins; rather, this case of blindness was an opportunity for the power of God to shine forth in the world. Jesus then kneaded some dirt and spittle into a paste and, in an ancient gesture of healing, rubbed it on the man’s eyes. He then instructed the man to go wash

Sun 22 Mon 23 Tues 24 Wed 25 Thurs 26 Fri 27 Sat 28 Sun 29 Mon 30 Tues 31 Wed 1 Thurs 2 Fri 3 Sat 4

SUNDAY, MARCH 22 - SATURDAY, APRIL 4

1 Sm 16:1b, 6-7, 10-13a • Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6 • Eph 5:8-14 • Jn 9:1-41 Is 65:17-21 • Ps 30: 2, 4, 5-6, 11-12a, 13b • Jn 4:43-54 Ez 47:1-9, 12 • Ps 46:2-3, 5-6, 8-9 • Jn 5:1-16 Is 7:10-14; 8:10 • Ps 40:7-8a, 8b-9, 10, 11 • Heb 10:4-10 • Lk 1:26-38 Ex 32:7-14 • Ps 106:19-20, 21-22, 23 • Jn 5:31-47 Wis 2:1a, 12-22 • Ps 34:17-18, 19-20, 21, 23 • Jn 7:1-2, 10, 25-30 Jer 11:18-20 • Ps 7:2-3, 9bc-10, 11-12 • Jn 7:40-53 Ez 37:12-14 • Ps 130:1-2, 3-4, 5-6, 7-8 • Rom 8:8-11 • Jn 11:1-45 Dn 13:1-9, 15-17, 19-30, 33-62 • Ps 23:1-3a, 3b-4, 5, 6 • Jn 8:1-11 Nm 21:4-9 • Ps 102:2-3, 16-18, 19-21• Jn 8:21-30 Dn 3:14-20, 91-92, 95 • Dn 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56 • Jn 8:31-42 Gn 17:3-9 • Ps 105:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 • Jn 8:51-59 Jer 20:10-13 • Ps 18:2-3a, 3bc-4, 5-6, 7 • Jn 10:31-42 Ez 37:21-28 • Jer 31:10, 11-12abcd, 13 • Jn 11:45-56

Lucy Filippini 1672-1732 March 25

Crosiers

Orphaned as a child, Lucy found a spiritual father in the bishop of Montefiascone and Corneto, Italy, who wanted to educate young people, especially young women. Working with him and Blessed Rose Venerini, Lucy helped form the Institute of the Maestre Pie and founded and maintained girls’ schools in that diocese and beyond.

The institute, which came to be known as the Religious Teachers Filippini, is credited with the religious and social improvement of Italian women well before compulsory education.

Saints

 

  

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



        

       

 

                                                                 

     

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

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE

in the Pool of Siloam; he did as Jesus commanded and returned able to see. The crowd was greatly amazed at the man’s restored sight, and so they reported the matter to their religious leaders, the Pharisees. The Pharisees, faced with this wonderful, new phenomenon, sought to condemn it. They insisted that since Jesus had both kneaded the paste and healed the man on the Sabbath (both were forbidden activities on the Sabbath), he must be evil. They sought to ridicule the man, interrogate his parents, and discredit Jesus.

These perfectly sighted individuals refused to open themselves to Jesus’ light, and so remained spiritually blind. They who were meant to be the light of their people proved themselves to be mired in darkness.

The next characters to react to the miracle are the parents of the man born blind. Summoned to testify before the Pharisees, they confirmed that their son had been blind, but refused to say how it was that he was then able to see. Their response was one of fear.

Faced with the light of Jesus breaking so radiantly even into their own son’s life, they were afraid to accept it. They especially feared the Pharisees who had decreed that anyone who testified in favor of Jesus was to be expelled from the synagogue. In fact, one of the daily synagogue prayers from a slightly later era was known as the Benediction Against Heretics: “For the apostates, let there be no hope . . . Let the Christians be destroyed in a moment and let them be blotted out of the Book of Life . . .” Accepting Jesus would involve a certain amount of courage.

Finally, it is the healed blind man himself who provides the best example of how we ought to react to the light of Jesus. He remained stalwart in his testimony to the miracle Jesus had worked for him. His commitment to the truth was the opening for Jesus to continue his enlightenment, leading him from physical blindness to physical sight and, ultimately, to spiritual insight. This is seen in the man’s description of Jesus; he begins, first considering him as “that man Jesus;” he later describes him progressively as “a prophet,” and finally as “Son of Man and Lord.” By remaining open to the power of Jesus working within him, the formerly blind man was himself able to become a light for others — a living witness to the power of God breaking into the world. Through our baptism, the Sacred Scriptures, the other sacraments, and the teaching of the Church, every Christian is similarly gifted with the light of Jesus. Our task is to “live as children of light . . . to learn what is pleasing to the Lord” (Eph 5:8,10), so that we too may witness to God’s goodness, and, like the man with restored sight, give praise and testimony to that goodness to all the world.

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

OUR FAITH

Fourth Sunday of Lent (A)

This Sunday’s first reading describes the opening of a new era in salvation history. In this passage from the First Book of Samuel, God reveals his choice of David to be King of Israel; “and from that day on, the spirit of the Lord rushed upon David” (1 Sm 16:13).

The beginning of the Davidic monarchy is so significant because it was to be a special, eternal instrument of God’s dealings with his people — David and his descendants would be charged with keeping God’s people faithful to the covenant. It was from among David’s line that the Messiah would be born, and, in fact, the term “Son of David” is one of the New Testament’s most frequently used titles for Jesus himself.

The theme of God doing something wonderful

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McAULEY

STEPPING FORWARD IN CHARITY

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“Come follow me”

Children extend care to military veteran in California When Catholic Charities’ Child Care Site Supervisor Jenelle Clauson read a Facebook post about a 104-year-old Marine’s special plea for Valentine’s wishes, she gathered her colleagues at Hatchery Hill Elementary School, Hackettstown, and organized a project for the children in the Catholic Charities’ after school child care program to respond to the oldest living Marine’s request.

Maj. Bill White, a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient, shared his wish during an interview with KTXL-TV in Sacramento, Calif., and the request went viral. He told the television hosts that one of his favorite hobbies is scrapbooking, which has helped him to keep track of his extensive life.

Now he wanted to add some Valentine cards to his collection of mementos.

Once word got out about White’s request, staff and children from Benedict A. Cucinella Elementary School, Long Valley, and Willow Grove Elementary School joined with Hatchery Hill and together they sent three large envelopes full of hand-made Valentine cards and wishes to honor White and to bring love and joy to the retired Marine.

“We are so thrilled about the response we received from the school district,” said Child Care Service Area Director Krista Glynn. “The staff and children were so excited to send their love and

Children in the Catholic Charities' after school child care program, students at Hatchery Hill Elementary School, Hackettstown, send their love and support to Major Bill White, a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient.

— photo courtesy of Catholic Charities

support to Maj. White and we are all reminded of how important it is to provide recognition to those who have served our country.”

Last year, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen provided affordable

child care for 1,500 children in select school districts in Middlesex, Morris, Somerset and Warren counties.

For more information about Catholic Charities’ child care programs, visit www. ccdom.org/child-care.

(Mark 10:21)

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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

If you think maybe...

Contact the

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

Additional Training Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen staff members and volunteers from its Social Service Center in Phillipsburg recently attended an eight-hour course entitled “Mental Health First Aid,” a training designed to give people without a specific background in mental health, the skills to assist someone who is developing a mental health problem or experiencing a mental health crisis. The national skills-based training course was sponsored by the Warren County Department of Human Services. It was instructed by Wendy Chin, emergency response coordinator, Disaster and Terrorism Branch located within the Office of the Assistant Commissioner for Mental Health and Addiction Services, New Jersey Department of Human Services. For information about Catholic Charities’ programs and services, visit www.ccdom.org or call (732) 324-8200.

— photo courtesy of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen

Journey of Faith

By Father John Gerard Hillier Many years ago, long before the automobile was invented, the ordinary means of transportation was by way of horseback or horse and wagon.

One day a young farmer drove a team of horses into a local town in North Carolina in order to purchase supplies at the market. Although he secured the horses to the hitching post, the horses somehow got spooked, dislodged themselves from the post, and began charging down the street. At the last minute, the farmer managed to grasp the reins and, holding on for dear life, he went tumbling onto the dusty road at high speed while coaxing the horses to a halt. Passers-by immediately came to the rescue of the bloodied and dying man, now under the debris of the broken wagon. “Why did you sacrifice your life for the horses and wagon?...Why did you do it?” asked a distressed observer. Feebly, the young farmer raised his hand and gestured toward the wagon. With his last breath, he whispered: “Look in the wagon.” There, asleep on bales of straw, unhurt in the runaway crash, was his two-year-old son.

We might ask the same question to Jesus that the young farmer was asked: “Why did you do it?” “Why did you die on the cross for us?” Pointing at each of us, Jesus would answer: “Because I love you; because I want to save you.”

The story of the young farmer teaches us that placing the wellbeing of others ahead of ourselves is, in one word, a “virtuous” act.

In this section of the Catechism, we are challenged to not only think about, but also to practice, “whatever is true,

whatever is honorable, whatever is just, good” (ccc 1808). whatever is pure, whatever is lovely, — “Temperance is the moral virtue whatever is gracious, if there is any ex- that moderates the attraction of pleasures cellence, if there is anything worthy of and provides balance in the use of crepraise...” (ccc 1803). ated goods” (ccc 1809).

In other words, we are Fourth century It is certainly not asked to consider the bishop and theologian, importance of living St. Augustine, quoted easy for any of us, virtuous lives. in the Catechism, sumwounded by original marizes the four CardiA virtue is a habitual and firm disposin and personal sin, nal virtues as follows: sition to do the good.

“To live well is nothing to maintain moral It allows the person to other than to love God not only perform good all one’s heart, balance. Only by ac- with acts, but to give the with all one’s soul and best of himself. Virtucepting “Christ’s gift with all one’s efforts; ous people tend toward from this it comes of salvation,” which the good with all their about that love is kept sensory and spiritual whole and uncorrupted “offers us the grace powers; they pursue [through temperance]. necessary to perse- No misfortune can the good and choose it in concrete actions (ccc it [and this is vere in the pursuit of disturb 1803). In the words of fortitude]. It obeys only fourth century theo[God] [and this is justhe virtues,” are we logian and bishop, St. tice], and is careful in able to do so Gregory of Nyssa, “the discerning things, so as goal of a virtuous life is not to be surprised by (ccc 1811). to become like God.” deceit or trickery [and No doubt it is althis is prudence]” (ccc ways quite obvious when we encounter 1809). people who practice the virtues, which The Catechism explains further that include “firm attitudes, stable disposi- “human virtues acquired by education, tions, habitual perfections of intellect by deliberate acts and by a perseverance and will that govern our actions, order our passions, and guide our conduct according to reason and faith” (ccc 1804).

The four Cardinal Virtues just mentioned, of which “all the others are grouped around them,” include: prudence, justice, fortitude, and temperance (ccc 1805).

— “Prudence is the virtue that disposes practical reason to discern our true good in every circumstance and to choose the right means of achieving it” (ccc 1806).

— “Justice is the moral virtue that consists in the constant and firm will to SPOTLIGHT PILGRIMAGE: give their due to God and neighbor” (ccc 1807).

— “Fortitude is the moral virtue that ensures firmness in difficulties ALASKA DISCOVERY and constancy in the pursuit of the LAND & CRUISE

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ever-renewed in repeated efforts are purified and elevated by divine grace” (ccc 1810). In other words, with the help of God himself, the human virtues “forge character and give facility in the practice of the good” (ccc 1810).

It is certainly not easy for any of us, wounded by original sin and personal sin, to maintain moral balance. Only by accepting “Christ’s gift of salvation,” which “offers us the grace necessary to persevere in the pursuit of the virtues,” are we able to do so (ccc 1811).

In conclusion, the Catechism counsels that “everyone should...ask for this grace of light and strength, frequent the sacraments, cooperate with the Holy Spirit, and follow Christ’s call to love what is good and shun evil” (ccc 1811).

It would seem to me that if we follow this recipe set forth in this section of the Catechism, we have the necessary tools to live lives after the example of the farmer who sacrificed his life for his young son.

More than this, we have the necessary gifts to live our lives after the example of Jesus who loved us to the end...and still does! May we always seek to live lives in imitation of him.

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

FAITH ALIVE

Article 136 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 1803 -1811

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Virtuous pursue good, choose it in concrete actions

32 OUR DIOCESE

Mass of Remembrance Scheduled The monthly Mass of Remembrance will be held April 4 at 9 a.m. in the Mausoleum Chapel at Holy Cross Burial Park, East Brunswick. Mass will also be held at 9 a.m. in the Mausoleum Chapel at Resurrection Burial Park,

Piscataway.

All are invited to participate at either site. These Masses are offered for all the deceased in the cemeteries. For more information, contact the diocesan Cemetery Office at (732) 463-1424.

NECROLOGY Rev. Michael A. McNulty April 19, 1997

Rev. Richard A. Ewing April 23, 2009

Rev. William T. Molloy April 24, 1997

Rev. Anthony M. Dandry April 8, 2010

Rev. Msgr. Joseph R. Brzozowski April 25, 1998

Rev. Msgr. Armando J. Perini April 1, 2016

Rev. Anthony M. Kramarz April 30, 1998

Rev. Michael Driscoll April 25, 2019

Rev. Msgr. Anthony J. Gambino April 27, 2006

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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FUNERAL DIRECTORY

Gustav J. Novak Funeral Home

Robert Fox Manager NJ License No. 4371

568 Middlesex Ave. (Rt 27)

Allan Caballero, director, diocesan Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry, holds a Certificate of Naturalization he received in a ceremony in Mt. Laurel Feb. 28.

Caballero was born and raised in Guayaquil, Ecuador. He moved to Perth Amboy when he was 17. Caballero and his wife, Veronica, have two children, Gianna R. (20 months) and Luciana R. (5 months). They are members of Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Piscataway.

— photo courtesy of Allan Caballero

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DOWN 1 Not Gomorrah 2 “…do not let your left ___ know …” (Mt 6:3)

OUR DIOCESE

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4 He went to heaven in a whirlwind 5 Pilate held one for Jesus 6 Place for nuns 7 Catholic author, Graham ___ 8 “…and do not share in another’s ___” (1 Tim 5:22) 13 Group of religious 15 “Bind them upon your heart always; ___ them about your neck.” (Prov 6:21) 17 Catholic late-night host Kimmel 19 Catholic sports figure Lombardi 21 Word of praise and joy 23 “…and darkness covered the ___.” (Gen 1:2) 24 OT prophetic book 25 Agatha is their patron saint 26 We are to bear these patiently 28 They often signal the start of a religious service 29 St. Edith’s surname 31 “Do not put the Lord your God to the ___” (Lk 4:12) 33 Brother of Jacob

33

CROSSWORD PUZZLE

ACROSS 3 Type of cross 9 Nordic Saint 10 Communion banister 11 Patron saint of farmers 12 Book containing calendar of Masses 14 Direction from Bethlehem to the Jordan 16 Catholic fitness guru, Charles ___ 17 Son of Jacob 18 Apostle number 20 Sister of Aaron 22 Perform the sacrament of Holy Orders 24 Service book 26 The Duke, a convert to Catholicism 27 It was touched to Isaiah’s mouth 30 Leader for 36A 32 Birth month of Mary (abbr.)

34 Australia’s first Catholic prime minister 35 Hosea, formerly 36 Wise Men 37 Italian city of St. Clare

answers can be found on page 34

Business Directory

TO INCLUDE YOUR BUSINESS IN THIS DIRECTORY FOR AS LITTLE AS $18 PER ISSUE, Call Nan at 732.765.6444 CONTRACTORS

Bob Stilo “Specializing in Asphalt Paving”

GENERAL CONTRACTING 2907 So. Clinton Ave., South Plainfield, NJ 07080

908-754-0776 • Fax: 908-754-0425

LAW GROUP

JB

Gutters

Josef Bas, Owner 732.579.2490 Fully Insured

free estimates

732.634.0630 WOODBRIDGE 732.381.4544 RAHWAY 732.494.5251 METUCHEN James Juarez, 153 Grove St. Woodbridge, NJ 07095

REAL ESTATE HVAC Mechanical Contracting

Thomas Pado President

heating air conditioning sheet metal fabrication building automation systems

www.tlpclimate.com

OWEN S. DUNIGAN & CO., INC. PLUMBING & HEATING State Lic. #7121 Certified Backflow Inspector Lic. #8714

Gutters Leaders Gutters Covers Gutter Cleaning New Installation & Repair Roofing Chimney Repair

CONTRACTORS

• • • •

PLUMBING SERVICES

t: 609.426.1966 f: 609.426.1766 400 Rike Drive, Millstone Twp., NJ 08535

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT MARCH 19, 2020

STILOEXCAVATING,INC.

GUTTERS

34

AROUND THE DIOCESE

OUR DIOCESE

Prayer and Worship

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

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

PUZZLE SOLUTION S H O L A F D N O R D O R M J U D I E M I R M H Y M N O U S T A R E S O S E E T S

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

G S R A I L E N E A S T N I E L V E I A I N B C Y N E S S S E P T S E M A G I U N

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

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

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

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

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

April 3 — Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish, South Plainfield, will hold Eucharistic Adoration on the first Friday of every month after the 8 a.m. Mass to 11:30 a.m. For information, call (908) 756-1333.

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

April 19, 1:30 p.m. — Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, will hold Divine Mercy devotions and Mass. The day will begin with confessions and recitation of the Rosary. Divine Mercy Chaplet will be held at 3 p.m. followed by Mass and veneration of the first class relic of St. Faustina. The celebrant and homilist will be Father Timothy Christy.

Special Programs

March 25, 6:45 to 9:15 p.m. — Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer, Watchung, will hold a showing of “The Farewell.” Following the movie a discussion will be held. The cost is $20-$30 as you are able to pay. To register, call (908) 753-2091 or email msmhope@ msmhope.org.

March 28, 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. — St. Joseph Ministry to Caregivers, Hillsborough, invites all caregivers to attend “Kindness Matters,” a spiritual and informative session for caregivers. Paula Rovinsky, RN will present “Stress Management for Caregivers.” Father Hank Hilton will celebrate Mass at 8:30 a.m. Lunch will be provided. For information or to register, call Carol, (908) 369-7143 or email CarolJ623@comcast.net.

April 24-26 — Worldwide Marriage Encounter of Central New Jersey will present

a weekend of enrichment. The weekend will give you time and tools to revitalize romance, communication and spirituality in your marriage. Space is limited. For details or reservations, call (732) 904-9636 or visit www. aweekendforyourmarriage.org by April 10.

Special Events

The National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Washington, is seeking volunteer ushers for the 13th of each month May through Oct. Volunteers are needed to help with the Rosary Procession and Mass.

To register, call Achilles, (718) 581-8925 or email acille_d@hotmail.com.

April 3, 7 p.m. — St. James Parish, Woodbridge, invites all to a presentation of “The Holy Shroud,” the most analyzed artifact in the world. Benedictine Father Louis-Marie Navarane will discuss the scientific explanation and religious interpretation. Veneration of a relic of the Shroud will be held. For information, emailsongndance43@comcast.net.

Cancellations

The annual retreat for women schedule to be held on April 18 at St. Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington has been cancelled.

If you were planning to walk in the South Amboy St. Patrick’s Day Parade on March 15 with the Middlesex County Right to Life and Life Choices Resource Center the parade has been rescheduled for May 16, 1 p.m. For information, email Ted Tyszkiewicz, treasurelife33@gmail.com.

Marketplace

Lou Buys Houses

as is ... any condition in need of renovations Local contractor Cash Offer Closing as quick as 14 days!

The Catholic Spirit Business Card Directory Join the directory for as little as $30 a month. Call Nan for details at 732.765.6444

Got Braces?

CALL LOU GEBEL 732-672-0198

Got Braces?

330 Milltown Road Suite W11

East Brunswick, NJ 08816 www.bestcruises.com

CONCORD Cleaning LLC

F

(732) 248-BEST (2378) (800) 576-BEST (2378) Fax (732) 248-9010

908-552-1694

remaxdave@yahoo.com Parishioner OLOL, Whitehouse Station & 4th Degree Member of the Knights of Columbus

A

Gerard J. Carino, PRESIDENT P.O. Box 953, Old Bridge, NJ 08857

908 . 246 . 9343

Faith & Fun Travel

A ND FUN T O ITH

Cruises, Tours, Pilgrimage Groups S

MARCH 19, 2020

Your Local New Jersey Cruise Specialists

UR

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

David Laggini

Senior Specialist for all Real Estate Needs

Deacon Tim Kennedy Travel Advisor 450 New Brunswick Ave. Suite 454 Fords, NJ 08863

732-423-7013 “Come and See!” - John 1:39

Got Braces?

Got Braces?

Robert J.

Bruzzichesi, DMD Got - Harvard Graduate Braces?

Got Braces?

Got drborthodontics.com 20 North Finley Avenue, Basking Ridge Braces?

121 Main Steet, Whitehouse Station 10 Wilmot Street, Morristown

Participates with Most Major Insurances 908.766.0111

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March

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

4/19

The Pontifical Mission Office offers Mass Cards, Perpetual Masses and Gregorian Mass for the Living and Deceased. The suggested offering is from $5 to $300. To purchase a card, contact (732) 2434580 or email pontifical.mission.societies@diometuchen.org.

May

3/28

April 4/1

4/2

Diocesan Lenten Retreat, Office of Hispanic Evangelization, 8:30 a.m. to 5 p.m., Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church, Middlesex. The Hispanic Community is invited to the first Diocesan Lenten Retreat in Spanish. The cost of $12 includes a book and lunch. Space is limited. For details and registration, email luzescoba@diometuchen.org or call (732) 743-4573 by March 25.

Catholic Prayer and Support Group for Families Affected by Mental Health Issues, Office for Persons with Disabilities, 10 a.m., the first Wednesday of each month, St. Patrick Church Center, Belvidere. The facilitator will be Elaine Eckard. For information, call (732) 765-6432 or email catholicswithdisabilities@gmail.com.

Catholic Prayer and Support Group for Families Affected by Mental Health Issues, Office for Persons with Disabilities, 10 a.m., the first Thursday of each month at Immaculate

Phone: 732-529-7934 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

Please pray for vocations!

HELP WANTED

“Come, Follow me.”

(Mark 10:21)

HELP WANTED

FREELANCE WRITERS The Catholic Spirit, official newspaper of the Diocese of Metuchen, is seeking freelance reporters to cover events and programs in the four counties of the diocese: Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren.

Email resume and writing samples to: news@catholicspirit.com CLEANING SERVICES

5/6

Catholic Prayer and Support Group for Families Affected by Mental Health Issues, Office for Persons with Disabilities, 10 a.m., the first Wednesday of each month, St. Patrick Church Center, Belvidere. The facilitator will be Elaine Eckard. For information, call (732) 765-6432 or email catholicswithdisabilities@gmail.com.

5/7

Catholic Prayer and Support Group for Families Affected by Mental Health Issues, Office for Persons with Disabilities, 10 a.m., the first Thursday of each month at Immaculate Conception Church, Somerville, in the Talbot Room. The facilitator will be Elaine Eckard.

For information, call (732) 765-6432 or email catholicswithdisabilities@gmail.com.

5/17

25th Annual NJ Catholic Youth Rally at Six Flags Great Adventure, Youth and Young Adult Ministry, 8:30 a.m. to 8 p.m. The rally is open high school students, scouts, young adults, parish/school athletes and families. The cost is $50 per person or $20 for Season Pass holders. Closing Mass will be held at 5 p.m. Lunch is included. For details, email youth. ministry@diometuchen.org.

CLASSIFIED HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

PARISH SECRETARY/ RECEPTIONIST Our Lady of Mount Virgin parish, located in the Borough of Middlesex, is seeking one full-time or two part-time Secretary/Receptionists, to cover the parish office Monday through Friday, 8:30 AM – 4:30 PM. Applicant(s) must have good communication and organizational skills, be proficient in Word and Excel (website knowledge a plus), and be able to work collaboratively with the pastor/administrator, clergy, and parish staff. Familiarity with ParishSoft is a plus, or a willingness to learn ParishSoft.

Duties include, but are not limited to, maintaining accurate parishioner records (parish registrations, sacramental records, and records of contributions), answering the telephone and directing calls or taking messages as necessary, and other daily functions needed to provide information and support to the parish community, including arranging Mass intentions and sponsorship eligibility certificates, and assisting with the arrangement of funerals and weddings.

Applicant must be a practicing Catholic familiar with the day to day operations of a parish and the liturgical and sacramental life of the Church. Interested applicants are invited to send a resume and cover letter by email to:

dskoblow@olmv.net

Fax: (732) 562-0969

E-mail: jleviton@diometuchen.org HELP WANTED

HELP WANTED

NEED PRO - LIFE HOUSEMOTHERS

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

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

VOLUTEERS NEEDED

VOLUNTEERS The Diocesan Office of Stewardship and Development wants your . . .

• Superb organizational skills • Ability to do detailed work • Love for data management . . . to build Catholic school alumni databases.

Database builders should enjoy data entry and be available for a minimum of 3 hours per week, any weekday between 9 am and 2 pm. Training will be provided. For more information or to join the Database Building Team Call: 732.562.2452 or Email: themingway@diometuchen.org

These classifieds really work! Our subscribers are great potential!

To place your ad call (732) 529-7934

MARCH 19, 2020

DELUXE HOUSE-KEEPING - Quality & Reliable C l e a n i n g S e r v i ce. Fre e Estimates. Commercial and Residential. Call Tony or Karina: (732) 670-7437.

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

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Is God calling you to serve as a priest, religious sister or brother? If you think maybe . . . contact the Office of Vocations: (732) 562-2453 or e-mail: vocations@ diometuchen.org

REAL ESTATE

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

I also buy homes. Cell: 908.392.2677; Office: 908.874.3400 ext 324.

Conception Church, Somerville, in the Talbot Room. The facilitator will be Elaine Eckard.

For information, call (732) 765-6432 or email catholicswithdisabilities@gmail.com.

OUR DIOCESE

DIOCESAN EVENTS

36 OUR DIOCESE

Miraculous Icon of The Mother of God

Entrepreneurial skills showcased

“Helper of Mothers” or “Helper in Childbirth”

Sophia Quiceno, left, a fifth-grader at the School of St. Elizabeth, Bernardsville, sells bath products for her SNP business as part of the “enTREPreneurS” program.

—photo courtesy of the School of St. Elizabeth

Hand painted icon from Russia touring New Jersey

Many Couples who could not conceive or carry to term have reported miraculous births St Mary, Hillsborough: March 19-April 23 1800 Brooks Ave, Hillsborough, New Jersey Special Service—Tuesday, March 31, 7:00 PM St Nicholas, Dunellen: April 23-May 7 121 Madison Avenue, Dunellen, New Jersey Special Service—Wednesday, April 29, 7:00 PM St Joseph (Byzantine), New Brunswick: May 7-May 21 30 High Street, New Brunswick, New Jersey Special Service—Wednesday, May 13, 7:00 PM

MARCH 19, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Sts Peter and Paul, Somerset: May 21-June 4 285 Hamilton Street, Somerset, New Jersey Special Service—Wednesday, May 27, 7:00 PM

Eighteen students at the School of St. Elizabeth, Bernardsville, were all business at a special event Jan. 27.

The vendors, who ranged in age from 10 to 13, had created and displayed innovative products and services for the community to buy as part of a program named “enTREPreneurS.” Participants are referred to as TREP$, short for “enTREPreneurS. The TREP$ program was offered at the school as an extra-curricular activity and taught the students how to be entrepreneurs. Led by Debra Ostrowski, principal, the six-week program included hands-on, fun workshops focusing on product development, finance, marketing, advertising and sales.

The culminating event of the program was the Marketplace, which opened with an official ribbon-cutting by Father Jay Siceloff, pastor, Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish.

Barbara Stevens, assistant superintendent, diocesan Office of Schools; and Pamela deWaal, TREP$ co-creator, also came to support the 'treps at their first Marketplace.

For all the children, success came in

the realization that they were now entrepreneurs.

The community came out to support the new program, helping the children succeed. There were bath products like salts, soaks, scrubs and bath bombs, as well as fashion products like Scrunchies, sports bracelets and women’s jewelry.

Other businesses sold beautiful candles, natural dog treats, planted herbs and flowers, colorful cell phone stands, and an action packed book.

“In all the Marketplaces I’ve attended, I’ve never seen table top terrains, magnetic belts, or edible snow paint,” deWaal said.

“It was fantastic to see the creativity. Congratulations to the entire School of St Elizabeth’s community on your first TREP$ Marketplace.”

Ostrowski noted, “Listening to these students pitch a product they made with their own hands inspires me and reminds me that when education is project-based and student-driven, it can be impactful, relevant, and fun at the same time. Our students are already talking about what they will create for next year’s TREP$ Marketplace.”

Nativity of our Lord, East Brunswick: June 4-June 18 700 Old Bridge Turnpike, East Brunswick, New Jersey Special Service—Tuesday, June 16, 7:00 PM St Michael the Archangel, Perth Amboy: June 18-July 2 401 Hall Avenue, Perth Amboy, New Jersey Special Service—Wednesday, July 1, 7:00 PM St Nicholas, Perth Amboy: July 2-July 16 320 Washington Street, Perth Amboy, New Jersey Special Service—Wednesday, July 15, 7:00 PM St George, Linden: July 16-July 30 417 McCandless Street, Linden, New Jersey Special Service—Wednesday, July 22, 7:00 PM For more information: https://www.eparchyofpassaic.com

Sharp Shooters

Participants in the annual Knights of Columbus Free-Throw Contest are shown at the recent District Championship at Immaculate Conception School, Annandale. Also shown are Knights Bill Smith, Mario Bernado and Dan Murphy.

The regional event for the diocese was held March 7 at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Milltown, and the state finals are scheduled to be held March 29 at Our Lady of Peace Parish Center, Fords.

— Chris Denis photo