Our Faith - Issuu

from May 20, 2021

Pope Francis

AUDIENCE

March 24, 2021

Throughout history, the term “meditation” has had various meanings. Even within Christianity it refers to different spiritual experiences. Nevertheless, some common lines can be traced, and in this we are helped again by the Catechism, which says, the Catechism says: “There are as many and varied methods of meditation as there are spiritual masters. [...] But a method is only a guide; the important thing is to advance, with the Holy Spirit, along the one way of prayer: Christ Jesus” (n. 2707). And here it indicates a travelling companion, one who guides: the Holy Spirit. Christian meditation is not possible without the Holy Spirit. It is he who guides us to the encounter with Jesus. Jesus said to us, “I will send you the Holy Spirit. He will teach you and will explain to you. He will teach you and explain to you.” And in meditation too, he is the guide for going forward in our encounter with Jesus Christ. Thus, there are many methods of Christian meditation: some are very simple, others more detailed; some accentuate the intellectual dimension of the person, others the affective and emotional dimension instead. They are methods. All of them are important and all of them are worthy of practice, inasmuch as they can help. What do they help? The experience of faith to become an integral act of the person: a person does not pray only with the mind; the entire person prays, the person in his or her entirety, just as one does not pray only with one’s feelings. No, everything. The ancients used to say that the part of the body that prays is the heart, and thus they explained that the whole person, starting from the center — the heart — enters into a relationship with God, not just a few faculties. This is how the ancients explained it. This is why it must always be remembered that the method is a path, not a goal: any method of prayer, if it is to be Christian, is part of that sequela Christi that is the essence of our faith. I am an 80-year-old cradle Catholic, but the Mass doesn't speak to me now. The verbiage keeps changing — what the heck is “consubstantial”? I have belonged to my parish since its inception many years ago, but if I died the priest would not know me now and has made no effort to do so, and I know only about eight people in the entire parish.

Prayer for Priests

O Jesus, I implore Your divine assistance for Your faithful and fervent priests; For Your priests laboring at home or abroad in distant mission fi elds; for Your Lonely and desolate priests; for Your young priests; for Your dying priests; For the souls of Your priests in purgatory. But above all, I commend to You the priests dearest to me; the priest who Baptized me; the priests who absolved me from my sins; the priests at whose Masses I assisted and who gave me Your Body and Blood in Holy Communion; The priests who taught and instructed me; all the priests to whom I am indebted In any way. O Jesus, keep them close to Your Sacred Heart, and bless them Abundantly in time and in eternity. Amen. Your question refl ects a familiar Q A lament from Catholics in your age group (which, by the way, is my own age group as well). Let me separate your concerns in order to respond. First, I agree with you on the word “consubstantial,” which is technical, heavily philosophical and puzzling to many Catholics. This is what happened: When the current English text came into use (in 2011), the language of the Nicene Creed, which formerly had said “one in being Question with the Father,” was changed to “consubstantial with the Father.” Corner This was thought by many theologians as well as the Vatican to be a more literal and accurate translation of the lanBy Father Kenneth Doyle guage from the Council of Nicaea in A.D. 325, which had defi ned that doctrine.

I miss the Latin Mass more than Next, on the matter of priests knowever; when I could go anywhere and ing their parishioners, the recent history hear the same words, it was so com- of the Church, especially in the United forting. (city and state withheld) States, has been marked by necessary parish mergers and consolidations — primarily due to the drop in priestly vocations.

Regrettably, a natural consequence is that priests are not able to know as many of their parishioners personally as they once were.

You might consider someday dropping by your rectory and simply saying hello to your parish priest, telling him that you miss the “old days” when priests had more chances to meet and get to know their parishioners.

As to the language of the Mass, I grew up in the days when it was comforting to be able to go anywhere in the world and hear the familiar sounds of the Latin Mass. But on that, I much prefer the present, when the Mass is said in the vernacular and everyone can understand what the priest is saying.

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

Church must evangelize modern world

The Second Vatican Council’s Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World (often referenced by its Latin title, Gaudium et Spes) is typically regarded as the most “progressive” of the 16 documents of Vatican II: the conciliar text that bespoke a new Catholic embrace of modernity while aligning the Church with liberal democratic po-

litical forces throughout the world.

Like every other conciliar document, however, the Pastoral Constitution only comes into clear focus when it is read through the prism of the council’s two most authoritative texts, the Dogmatic Constitution on Divine Revelation (Dei Verbum) and the Dogmatic Constitution on the Church (Lumen Gentium). Dei Verbum taught that God really does speak to humanity in history, and that the revelation of God’s intention for humanity, defi nitively manifest in Jesus Christ, is binding for all time. Lumen Gentium taught that the Church is a “sacrament” or “sign and instrument….of communion with God and unity among all men,” The Church embodies that by heeding the Great Commission: by proclaiming and living the Gospel of Jesus Christ, thus bringing the truth about God and us to the whole world.

That, according to the two fundamental documents of Vatican II, is the best thing the Church can do for the modern world: evangelize it. Everything else fl ows from that.

There were to be no exceptions to the scope of the Church’s evangelization. So, the council taught that public life, including the tangled world of politics, was a fi eld to be evangelized and thereby revitalized with the leaven of Christian truth. That meant, in the main, lay Catholics working in the public space to promote the dignity of the human person and the common good.

Gaudium et Spes had a lot to say about the Christian responsibility to contribute to the common good, about which it took a broad view: by the “common good,” Vatican II meant not just a prosperous economy, environmental protections, proper health care, and the legal protection of basic human rights, but the ongoing pursuit of a social order characterized by truth, justice, virtue, solidarity, and mutual responsibility. Meeting that responsibility to advance the common good, the council taught, required Catholics to lead coherent lives. The Pastoral Constitution therefore reminded the people of the Church that “it is a mistake to think that, because we have here no lasting city, but seek the city which is to come, we are entitled to shirk our earthly responsibilities.” There could be no such shirking, for “by our faith, we are bound all the more to fulfi ll these responsibilities according to the vocation of each.”

Thus, life in politics, which the council described as a “diffi cult yet noble art,” ought to be lived as a vocation by Catholics. And there could be no bifurcation in living out that vocation, or indeed any other. “One of the gravest errors of our time is the dichotomy between the faith which many profess and the practice of their daily lives.” The prophets of the Old Testament had “vehemently denounced this scandal,” Gaudium et Spes noted, as did Christ himself, who “with greater force threatened it with severe punishment.” There could be no “pernicious opposition” between a Catholic’s “professional and social activity,” on the one hand, and his or her “religious life,” on the other.

Coherently Catholic public offi cials, whose faith illuminates the truths that make for human fl ourishing and who integrate those truths into their political lives, are the Catholics who best refl ect the Church’s intention to “establish and consolidate the human community according to the law of God.” Catholics who promote or who refuse to take effective action against grave offenses against human dignity (among which Gaudium et Spes listed abortion, euthanasia, and violations of the human person through mutilation) not only fail to contribute to the common good while doing severe damage to society; they also declare themselves incoherent Catholics, who are, objectively, not in full communion with the Church.

This is the challenge that the most progressive document of the Second Vatican Council puts today before the President of the United States, the Speaker of the U.S. House of Representatives, U.S. senators from both sides of the aisle, and the many other public offi cials who persist in living a “pernicious opposition” between their “professional activity” and their “religious life.” It is not a partisan challenge. It is not a traditionalist challenge. It is not a politicized challenge. It is Vatican II’s challenge.

Their fellow-Catholics among the laity have an obligation to bring this challenge of coherence to the attention of these brethren in Christ. So do their pastors.

In our Scripture readings this Pentecost Sunday, Jesus dramatically fulfills his promise to send another Helper to forever accompany his followers. Jesus had ascended back to the right hand of his Father in Heaven, and now true to his word, sent the Holy Spirit upon his gathered disciples. The Holy Spirit, “the artisan of God’s works,” brought the ongoing Christian community (the Church) into being, empowering it to carry the message of Jesus in unity to all peoples and nations.

As St. John portrays it, the Resurrection, Ascension, and Descent of the Holy Spirit all take place on Easter Sunday itself. The occasion of the bestowal of the Spirit is Jesus’ Easter evening appearance to his disciples. The Gospel tells us that Jesus breathed on the disciples, significantly using the same verb as in the Greek versions of Genesis 2:7, the account of the Lord God breathing life into Adam. Just as that first transmission of the Spirit had created the original human life, this second sending of the Spirit brings new life in Christ Jesus.

St. Luke presents a different and more detailed version of these wonderful events. In the Acts of the Apostles, St. Luke places the Descent of the Holy Spirit on the Hebrew feast of Pentecost, 50 days after Passover. For the Jewish people, Pentecost was a time for giving thanks after the barley harvest, as well as a commemoration of God’s giving the 10 Commandments to Moses on Mount Sinai. This was the day the Hebrews gave thanks for God’s forming them into his people. Both the appearance of God as fire and the arrival of the Spirit amid the sound of rushing wind would have been very reminiscent of Sinai for these gathered people. And so, 10 days after his ascension, Jesus showed himself to be the One who would baptize with fire and the Holy Spirit, fulfilling the promise made by John the Baptist (see Luke 3:16). As the 120 followers were gathered, they heard a sound like a strong, driving wind. Then, tongues of fire appeared and came to rest upon each of them. These outward signs strikingly witnessed to the glorious unseen reality that, “All were filled with the Holy Spirit!” (Acts 2:4a).

The remainder of the reading from Acts relates the sensational effects that the indwelling Spirit had upon the disciples. They began to boldly testify to the assembled crowd about “the marvels God has accomplished.” This would have been extraordinary enough for the formerly timid group, but St. Luke further tells us that each of the multitude heard the apostles’ testimony in their own language. This extraordinary ability points to the missionary nature of their new commission; they received the ability to be understood in various languages because they themselves were being sent forth to continue their testimony to the farthest bounds of the earth. Perhaps there is also another intention as the author hints at the reversal of the punishment meted out at the construction of the Tower of Babel (Genesis 11:1-9); whereas pride had brought disunity to the human race, the power of the Holy Spirit would now enable the restoration of its primordial unity. A Byzantine liturgical hymn beautifully captures this theme: “When the Most High descended and confused tongues, He scattered the people; but when He distributed the tongues of fire, He called all people to unity. Therefore with one voice, let us praise the Most Holy Spirit” (Kontakion of Pentecost Sunday). That unity is the focus of our second reading, taken from St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians. Paul teaches that the multitude of differences among members of the Christian community are intended to build up the Church. “To each person the manifestation of the Spirit is given for the common good” (1 Cor. 12:7). The talents and charisms of each member serve the unity of the Church because they all testify to the same reality, that is, that “Jesus is Lord” (1 Cor 3b) of all. Further, every talent and charism emanates from the same Source: “All of us have been given to drink of the one Spirit” (1 Cor 13). Paul offers the image of the Holy Spirit as the principle of life vivifying the Body of Christ and unifying its members in a singleness of love and mission.

With the events of Pentecost, our Paschal celebrations have come to their completion. Humanity’s sinfulness has been redeemed by the passion, death, and Resurrection of Jesus. Far from being passive spectators in this process of salvation, all Christ’s followers are empowered by the indwelling of the Holy Spirit to carry on his mission of bringing about his Father’s Kingdom of justice, peace, and joy. Let us thus join with the universal Church in prayer, “O God . . . pour out, we pray, the gifts of the Spirit across the face of the earth and, with the divine grace that was at work when the gospel was first proclaimed, fill now once more the hearts of believers.” (from the Collect, Mass during the Day of Pentecost).

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

SCRIPTURE STUDY

By Msgr. John N. Fell

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE

FRIDAY, MAY 21 - TUESDAY, JUNE 1

Fri 21 Sat 22 Sun 23

Mon 24 Tues 25 Wed 26 Thurs 27 Fri 28 Sat 29 Sun 30 Mon 31 Tues 1

Acts 25:13b-21 / Ps 103:1-2, 11-12, 19-20ab / Jn 21:15-19 Acts 28:16-20, 30-31 / Ps 11:4, 5 amd 7 / Jn 21:20-25 Vigil: Gn 11:1-9 or Ex 19:3-8a. 16-20b or Ez 37:1-14 or Jl 3:1-5 / Ps 104:1-2, 24, 35, 27-28, 29-30 / Rom 8:22-27 / Jn 7:37-39 or Extended Vigil: Gn 11:1-9 / Ps 33:10-11, 12-13, 14-15 / Ex 19:38a, 16-20b / Dn 3:52, 53, 54, 55, 56 or Ps 19:8, 9, 1, 11 / Ez 37:1-14 / Ps 107:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 / Jl 3:1-5 / Ps 104:1-2, 24 and 35, 27-28, 29-30 / Rom 8:22-27 / Jn 7:37-39. Day: Acts 2:1-11 / 1 Cor 12:3b-7, 12-13 or Gal 5L16-25 / PS 104:1, 24, 29-30, 31, 34 / Veni, Sancte Spiritus / Jn 20:19-23 or 15:26-27; 16:12-15 Gn 3:9-15, 20 or Acts 1:12-24 / Ps 87:1-2, 3 and 5, 6-7 / Jn 19:25-34 Sir 35:1-12 / Ps 50:5-6, 7-8 14 and 23 / Mk 10:28-31 Sir 36:1, 4-5a, 10-17 / Ps 79:8, 9, 11, and 13 / Mk 10:32-45 Sir 42:15-25 / Ps 3:2-3, 4-5, 6-7, 8-9 / Mk 10:46-52 Sir 44:1, 9-13 / Ps 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a and 9b / Mk 11:11-26 Sir 51:12cd-20 / Ps 8, 9, 10, 11 / Mk 11:27-33 Dt 4:32-34, 39-40 / Ps 33:4-5, 6, 9, 18-19, 20, 22 / Rom 8:14-17 / Mt 28:16-20 Zep 3:14-18a or Rom 12:9-16 / Is 12:2-3, 4bcd, 5-6 / Lk 1:39-56 Tb 2:9-14 / Ps 112:1-2, 7-8, 9 / Mk 12:13-17

SCRIPTURE SEARCH®

Gospel for May 23, 2021 John 15 26-27; 16:12-15 Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the Feast of Pentecost, Cycle B: Jesus promises an advocate. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

PENTECOST ADVOCATE COMES

FROM THE FATHER SPIRIT

OF TRUTH TESTIFY YOU ALSO

BECAUSE CANNOT HE WILL

GUIDE SPEAK ON HIS OWN HE HEARS DECLARE THINGS GLORIFY ME TO YOU REASON

THE GUIDE

T S O C E T N E P I L Y O G L N O S A E R E F A Y D L C F P O E D I U G O E I O F I T D T K D I U T W M R R H S D E F O S A E E O I E O C S Y N G C H S M T F L W U O H N O C H O T A Y K A U I I V N N R R T C M C A S H D N U E X H J O E L O T A T A K A E P S B S W C H E H E A R S A N O N

STEPPING FORWARD IN CHARITY 40 STEPPING UP IN CHARITY 26 Christian Gifts, Cards & Rosaries Catholic Medals • Books • Bibles Trappistine Candies McAULEY Religious Gift Shop (908) 754-3663 , ext. "0" at Mount St. Mary's WE ACCEPT PAYMENT BY CASH OR PERSONAL CHECKS. NO CREDIT CARDS. Rt. 22 & Terrill Road, Watchung, NJ 07069 Tues., Wed. & Thurs.: 10 am – 3pm Friday: 10 am – 2 pm Saturday: 9:30 am – 12 noon Closed Sunday, Monday & Holidays STEPPING FORWARD 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 Children extend care to military veteran in California Connections Program off ers role models for youth By Joanne Kleinle Correspondent “A faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who fi nds one fi nds a treasure.” (Sir 6:14) The Connections Program at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, which is supported by the Bishop's Annual Appeal, takes this verse to heart by connecting mentors with youth who can use a friend. What participants have found is that what starts out as a way to give youth a helping hand, often creates friendships that are treasured by the youths, the mentors and their families alike. By Karen Corpora Correspondent PHILLIPSBURG – Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen (CCDOM), is offering immigrants who want to apply to become a United States citizen, consultations and a free companion. This free offer is available until September. The normal cost for the service is $550. In October 2020, CCDOM began offering outreach and information sessions regarding a free naturalization program for permanent residents who wish to become Free services offered for immigrants respond to the oldest living Marine’s Since 1994, the Connections Program U.S. citizens. The sessions are being ofOur Lady of Tenderness request. Maj. Bill White, a World War II veteran and Purple Heart recipient, has paired adult volunteers with youth in Middlesex County from ages 5 to 17. It started from pairing 14 matches to as many as 65 mentors paired with youth each year. fered virtually and in person and in both English and Spanish. Sponsored by CCDOM’s Immigration Services Program, the information MAY 20, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT AUGUST 20, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT “Come follow me” (Mark 10:21) Is God calling you to serve as a priest, deacon, religious sister or brother? If you think maybe... 2400 B Cooper Street Piscataway, NJ 08854 www.ourladyoftenderness.com Your prayer requests are welcomed and encouraged. They shall be placed before the Blessed Sacrament and lifted daily in prayer. The ministry of this Hermitage is God’s gift, a life of prayer, freely given to our diocese for you. Please accept this free gift. It is a privilege to be united with you in prayer. Be still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 Prayer Request: _______________________________ _________________________ atholic SpiritC THE Our Lady of Tenderness 95 West Main St. Suite 5-106 Chester, NJ 07930 www.ourladyoftenderness.com Your prayer requests are welcomed and encouraged. They shall be placed before the Blessed Sacrament and lifted daily in prayer. The ministry of this Hermitage is God’s gift, a life of prayer, freely given to our diocese for you. Please accept this free gift. It is a privilege to be united with you in prayer. Be still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 Prayer Request: _______________________________ _________________________ 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 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. 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 Youth in the program are more likely to develop positive behaviors and continue schooling, which changes their lives. The friendship between the youth and the mentors tends to form quickly, but over time an even deeper bond is established and they often become a second family to the child. According to the program’s website, criteria to get a mentor are: experiencing signifi cant and/or terminal medical diffi culties for which a positive adult relationship from outside of the family would be helpful; fi nding themselves in serious situational/ loss crisis (i.e., but not limited to divorce or a parent is dying/just deceased) and a helpful adult relationship is needed. Kathy McCrystal said she started as a mentor when her twin boys were teenagers. She was paired with a boy close in age to her sons because she thought mentoring would be a great way to engage her own boys. She got much more than she expected. The boy became close to her whole family, participating in traditions like her in-laws annual New Year’s Eve party, decorating the Christmas tree and going on an annual Easter egg hunt. She even took him on college tours with her own sons. They grew so close that when he aged out of the program, she agreed to mentor his younger brothers and they now participate in McCrystal family traditions just like their brother did. Most of the activities that she does with the boys are simple. Because of the recent lockdown related to the coronavirus, she takes them for a walk or buys them ice cream. They also share her love of biking and hiking. Sometimes they want to visit at her house and play basketball or share a meal. McCrystal spends about four hours a week with the boys depending on what activities they plan. She looks forward to her time with them and loves watching them grow and mature into teenagers. They often talk to her about their issues and she gives them whatever guidance she can. Mentors must undergo rigorous screening interview and background checks before they receive training and continue to receive training after they beging serving. The program sponsors monthly group activities — usually in person, but they have been held virtually because of the coronavirus — for mentors and the youth. Through these trainings and activities, McCrystal has also formed close friendships with other mentors. Case managers are in touch with mentors two to fi ve times each month and are available day or night by phone if they need advice or support. The program also hosts quarterly mentor support nights. Jeanette Cullen, a member of St. Bartholomew Parish, East Brunswick, where she serves as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and in its Society of St. Vincent de Paul chapter, has been supervisor of the Connections Program since 2000. She sees the impact it has not only on the the youth, but on the mentors and families. “The program is not meant to replace the parents, but to give support,” she said. “In many cases, we put the childhood back in the child’s life by offering the fun activities and support that his or her family cannot give them.” Cullen treasures witnessing the lifechanging impact that the mentors have on the youth. She said one child, whose parents were day laborers, came into the program wanting to be a day laborer. After spending time with his mentor, he realized other possibilities that were open to him. He started to plan to go to college and become a businessman and travel. He also changed his diet to more healthy choices. For information about becoming a mentor, contact Jeanette Cullen at jcullen@ ccdom.org or (732) 738-1323. Jeanette Cullen, a member of St. Bartholomew Parish, East Brunswick, has served as supervisor of the Connections Program at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, since 2000. The 26-year-old program pairs adult volunteers with youth in Middlesex County from ages 5 to 18. —Joanne Kleinle photo “In many cases, we put the childhood back in the child’s life by o ering the fun activities and support that their families cannot give them.” —Jeanette Cullen sessions are being held as part of its mission to provide quality, low-cost services to the needy. On April 18, at St. Phillip and St. James Parish the second of these listening sessions was held. The goal of all the sessions is to put at ease people who are struggling to decide if they want to start the process of neutralization/immigration, which is long and can be frightening for those going it alone. At the session, Adriana Molina Guillen, an immigration counselor with Catholic Charities, explained what was needed to qualify to become a citizen. In an interview with “The Catholic Spirit,” she spoke about how Catholic Charities helps immigrants. “They can come to our offices to receive the help they need. They can make appointments with us for the free consultation. We will review all their documents and work with them to file the application and help them to prepare for the process,” she said. Those interested will receive the help needed to prepare for the test and the interviews which are required. They will also be taught what they should be aware of and any documentation they will need to produce, she added. “We want them to feel comfortable with the process. I want them to be confident about the how, when and what they will need to do as they are going through the process,” Molina Guillen stated. The prep work before an interview with Immigration can take up to two years. “It’s a long process. It’s a journey, but we are together with them. Immigration and naturalization laws change quite often so it is helpful to have someone working with them who knows the laws and the changes,” Molina Guillen noted. Jose Miguel Suarez, Guillen’s husband, is a member of the current Diocese of Metuchen diaconate class for men of Hispanic descent. He joins his wife when she visits the parish of any of his classmates “to support her and my classmates who spread the word [about the immigration program] to their parish.” He said he networks to spread the word among the communities about the program. “Any immigrant is eligible,” he stated. “We all have different parishes, but we all have the same need. The beauty of this service is that you can learn the things that you are not familiar with and begin to realize their importance.” Paul Flor, a member of St. Phillip and St. James Parish, is also in the diaconate class. “I have been a member of the Spanish community here for over 20 years,” he said. “I have been helping to spread the word to others in the parish about the great services being offered by Catholic Charities. People feel better when it comes from someone they know and trust.” “The deacons are my networking system for the presentations,” said Guillen. “It will be faster to reach the community if you already know the people and the deacons are a great help. If I have to do it myself it would be a longer journey to reach them.” Guillen said there are about 30 parishes in the diocese with immigrant populations. Catholic Charities provides several low-cost immigration legal services and will continue holding meetings in different sections of the diocese. “Little by little the parishes are opening up to house meeting like this one at St. Philip and St. James. We are getting between 10-20 people at each meeting which is great. We would like to be able to help as many people as possible,” he said. Catholic Charities has also partnered with Literacy NJ, an organization offering free citizenship classes. At the beginning of each quarter, they attend Literacy NJ classes to explain their legal services and answer any questions the students may have. For information about Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen’s Immigration Services, call (732) 214-8743 Adriana Molina Guillen, an immigration counselor with Catholic Charities, explains what is needed to become an American citizen. "Immigration and naturalization laws change quite often so it is helpful to have someone...who knows the laws and changes..."

Article 150 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series

Paragraphs 2133-2159

Journey of Faith

By Father John Gerard Hillier

We have all heard it said in our grammar school “geography lessons” that all the rivers of the world fl ow to the ocean. Similarly, it can be said, that all words uttered under Heaven reach the “mind” of God. Thus, the Second Commandment teaches that words matter, especially when referencing the Divine Name, as well as the Christian name given at Baptism.

The Second Commandment states: “You shall not take the name of the Lord your God in vain” (Ex 20:7). The Catechism teaches: “The Second Commandment prescribes respect for the Lord’s name. Like the First Commandment, it belongs to the virtue of religion and more particularly it governs our use of speech in sacred matters” (ccc 2142).

This Commandment, according to the Catechism, “also forbids the abuse of God’s name...[including] Jesus Christ, but also of the Virgin Mary and all the saints” (ccc 2146). St. James strongly condemns those “who blaspheme that honorable name [of Jesus]” (Jas 2:7).

This article discusses the fi rst mention of God in Sacred Scripture. Paragraph 2143 explains: “Among all the words of Revelation, there is one which is unique: the revealed name of God” (ccc 2143). Therefore, the Catechism cautions that we are “not to introduce [God’s name] into our own speech except to bless, praise, and glorify it” (ccc 2143). Such is the precious name of God and the things of God! In fact, preaching and catechizing are also to be “permeated with adoration and respect for the name of our Lord Jesus Christ” (ccc 2145). Why? Because “respect for his name is

an expression of the respect owed to the great when spoken with respect for the and the pastor are to see that a name is not mystery of God himself” (ccc 2144). greatness of his majesty. God’s name is given which is foreign to Christian sentiIt, therefore, makes sense why holy when said with veneration and fear ment” (Canon 855). false oaths and perjury are also sinful. of offending him.” The Second Commandment teaches, To state it simply: because they call Similarly, God’s sacred name should therefore, that not only do words matter, on God “to be a witness to a lie” (ccc never be invoked in the form of an oath but names matter, especially the Divine 2151). In fact, words directed toward the if the statement being made is untrue. Name, as well as the name we receive Church, the saints, and all sacred things Why? Because, as the Catechism states: when we are born again in Christ through are a grave sin when they misuse God’s “An oath, that is the invocation of the di- the waters of Baptism. No wonder, over name, because they blaspheme God and, vine name as a witness to truth, cannot be the centuries, many parents chose to therefore, are “contrary taken unless [it is taken] name their child after a canonized saint. to the respect due God and his holy name” (ccc The First Command- in truth, in judgment, and in justice” (ccc 2154). This custom continues when selecting a name for the Sacrament of Confi rmation. 2148). It is likewise blas- ment is probably Stated differently, “When The name chosen by the Confi rmandi is phemous to make use of God’s name “to cover also broken if the it is truthful and legitimate, an oath highlights always that of a canonized saint. This section of the Catechism fi nup criminal practices, to name of God is the relationship of human ishes by emphasizing that, as the prophet reduce peoples to servitude, to torture persons misused in a radical speech with God’s truth. A false oath calls on God put it, “God calls each one by name” (Is 43:1). We are told, “everyone’s name or put them to death” (ccc 2148). In the words way, thus placing to be witness to a lie” (ccc 2151). is sacred. The name is the icon of the person. It demands respect as a sign of of St. Ignatius of Loyola, vulgarity and slang Related to this is the the dignity of the one who bears it” (ccc 16th century Spanish priest and founder of the or abusive language theme of the “Christian name” we receive in the 2158). And fi nally, “the name one receives is a name for eternity” (ccc 2159). Jesuits: “Do not swear as a “substitute god.” Sacrament of Baptism. A name identifi es who God is and whether by the Creator, “In Baptism, the Lord’s who we are. Some say it is the most imor any creature, except name sanctifi es us, and we portant word in the world to us. As Sacred truthfully, of necessity, and with rever- receive our Christian name in the Church. Scripture puts it: “A good name is more ence” (Spiritual Exercises, 38). This can be the name of a saint, that is, of desirable than great riches, and high esIn short, profanity (obscene words or a disciple who has lived a life of exem- teem, than silver and gold” (Prv 22:1). acts) and blasphemy (sacrilegious words plary fi delity to the Lord...[or one that)] Father Hillier serves as director or acts) are serious sins that disobey the expresses a Christian mystery or Christian of the diocesan Offi ce of the Pontifi cal Second Commandment. The First Com- virtue” (ccc 2156). The Church’s Code of Missions, the Offi ce for Persons with mandment is probably also broken if the Canon Law teaches: “Parents, sponsors, Disabilities, and Censor Librorum name of God is misused in a radical way, thus placing vulgarity and slang or abusive language as a “substitute god.” While profanity is the misuse of God’s holy name in a careless and inappropriate manner, blasphemy is a more serious sin because the offense is a deliberate act of irreverence and contempt against God’s holy name. This is especially the case when used in a curse against another person. The Catechism Classic Danube River Cruise explains: it “consists in uttering against God — inwardly or outwardly — words with OBERAMMERGAU PASSION PLAY of hatred, reproach, or defi ance; in speak- June 5-14, 2022 ing ill of God; in failing in respect toward him in one’s speech; in misusing God’s Book by May 31, 2021 and save $450.00 per person name” (ccc 2148). In one of his sermons, 4th century bishop and theologian, St. Augustine, observed: “God’s name is Southern Italy & Sicily featuring Taormina, Matera and the Amalfi Coast Give your elderly loved ones trusted, dependable S September 14 - 25, 2021 in-home care. Help them live safely at home where they feel comfortable, independent and happy. Book by May 30, 2021 and save $100 per person

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On April 24, defense attorney Mark Anderl and United States District Court Judge Esther Salas unveiled a plaque dedicated to their son, Daniel Mark Anderl, in a ceremony at Catholic University of America, Washington, D.C. Salas spoke to attendees of the ceremony, and Father Robert G. Lynam, pastor, St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park -- where Daniel received the sacraments of baptism, rst holy Communion and con rmation -- gave the invocation. The plaque includes a passage from the Gospel of John (15:13): “Greater love hath no man than this, that a man lay down his life…” Daniel, who was a student at Catholic University, planned to pursue a career in law. The plaque was dedicated by the law school in his honor. Friends of Daniel, 20, who was a 2014 graduate of St. Augustine of Canterbury School and a 2018 graduate of Saint Joseph High School, Metuchen, from Catholic University attended the ceremony. One student -- Katherine (Class of 2022) -- gave an emotional witness of the impact that Daniel had on the life of so many at Catholic University, Father Lynam said. Daniel was shot to death and his father was shot several times at the front door of their North Brunswick home July 29, 2020. Salas was in the basement with Daniel when he ran to the door where the fatal shooting took place as he o ered his life to protect his mother and father. The gunman, Roy Den Hollander, of New York, died of a self-in icted gunshot wound the day after the attacks.

—photos by Rui Barros for Catholic University

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4 God loves a cheerful one 9 Mission to remember 10 Abbey sound 11 Holy ___ 12 Administrative arm of the Catholic Church 13 Noah took them into the ark 14 Catholic opera singer Pavarotti 17 The Diocese of Baker is here 19 The father of Saul’s general, Abner 21 ___ of the Mass 22 One of the 10 plagues 23 ___ culpa 25 Simon, the apostle, was one of these 26 Catholic Academy-Award winning actress Young 29 Time for some Easter services 31 Pope before Benedict III 33 Chi follower 34 California governor who attended a Jesuit seminary 35 Catholic actor of “The West Wing” fame 36 Jesuit missionaries compiled an atlas of this country

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1 Catholic apologist and mathematician 2 Eastern Catholic who played Klinger on M.A.S.H. 3 Sub ___ (secret appointment) 4 Catholic actor, “The Great One” 5 Our Sunday ___ newspaper 6 Religious instruction for converts (abbr.) 7 Member of an order founded by St. Paul of the Cross 8 Where 11A is 15 Essential element of the Sacrament of Reconciliation 16 Declare a marriage invalid 18 Church days 20 Famous outcast 23 Peak in Exodus 24 Home of the Archdiocese of Edmonton 27 Season during which the Joyful Mysteries are prayed 28 Title for Jesus 30 “___ Dimittis” 31 “For whoever would save his life will ___ it” (Mk 8:35) 32 Father of Jesse

Answers can be found on page 47

By Kaylynn Ebner

Correspondent

ered extremely precise and helpful to couples for which other methods have failed. The diocese has launched a program Unfortunately, when couples that awards medical professionals dealing with infertility seek help from half-scholarships to the Marquette healthcare professionals, they rarely University Institute’s online training hear about NFP and are often given program for natural family planning just two treatment options: intrauterine (NFP) instructors. insemination (IUI) or in “We have several “It was truly divine vitro fertilization (IVF), NFP teachers in our diocese, but not many are providence that I neither of which align with Catholic teaching. trained in the Marquette Method of fertility connected with all “That was shocking to me,” said Janine awareness, which must the right people to Garcia, when she and her be taught by a medical professional,” said Cris- help me become husband were faced with this challenge a few years tina D’Averso-Collins, an NFP practitio- ago. director, diocesan Office of Family Life. “It ner. The Gianna “We’re living in a world where there’s the felt like there was a gap, and I wanted to make Center also played constant push for contraceptive use and IVF. that training available a pivotal role in my It’s almost like slapping to medical professionals with the goal of them be- decision to pursue on a bandage on common reproductive health ing able to assist couples this path.” concerns instead of actuthroughout our diocese.” The Marquette Method is unique among the various NFP methods because it relies on urine fertility biomarkers (as ally finding out the root cause. It is such a disservice not to promote more holistic options,” she explained. As a registered nurse and someone —Janine Garcia Registered nurse Janine Garcia, right, poses with her husband, Ryan, and son, Pio Giannis, at their home. Garcia is receiving some fi nanial support from the diocese to complete her training to become a natural family planning (NFP) instructor. —photo courtesy of Janine Garcia well as other biomarkers) combined naturally inquisitive about medical with a precise algorithm to determine a woman’s fertile window. It is considSTEM SUMMER CAMPSTEM SUMMER CAMPSTEM SUMMER CAMP issues, Garcia began researching alternatives to IUI and IVF and became Students will learn the About Our ProgramCAMP DATES f keenly interested in NFP. She sought NFP services from The Gianna Center, undamentals of choices have led toward her becoming an NFP instructor, from her interest in 202120212021 June 21-July 30, 2021 conceived her son (who is a healthy toddler now), and is blessed to have a inquiry-based science and math activities that grow in complexity from teacherguided to student-initiated investigations. the medical field, to her own fertility challenges, to her love of motherhood, second baby on the way. Despite being a busy new mother, Garcia could not stop thinking about Students will work with model rockets and robots to learn engineering, math, and science principles. Students also learn MONDAY-FRIDAY STEM Weekly Summer Camp 2021 June 21 – July 30, 2021 to her deep Catholic faith. “It was truly divine providence that I connected with all the right 9:00AM-2Grades 5-10 :30PM princip coding les of that what a blessing NFP had been to her family and wanted to raise awareness computer programming and will prepare them for STEM people to help me become an NFP practitioner. The Gianna Center also Grades 5-10 opportunities Students will that it is a valid and important option for the millions of women faced with in the future. work in teams and share in the played a pivotal role in my decision to pursue this path,” said Garcia. “I really fun as they compete with the challenges and heartache of infereach other every do believe God has a special plan for MAY 20, 2021 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT tility. Feeling the Lord’s guiding hand at work, Garcia told her fertility care practitioner about her interest in becoming an NFP instructor herself, and she was put in touch with D’AversoCollins. “I was very excited to hear from Janine because I was in the process of formulating our scholarship program and was looking for applicants. Janine became the first recipient of our scholarship,” D’Averso-Collins said. D’Averso-Collins felt Garcia was an excellent choice to be the inaugural recipient of this important scholarship: “I thought she would be really wonderful in this area. She’s a young mom, has a nursing background, and she’s very faithful. She’s very approachable, particularly for young couples, and I think that really goes a long way when you have someone who’s actually practicing these methods themselves and going through this process.” For Garcia, it seems like all her life Teachers will engage students in a research project on the various types of robots. Students will then research the types of robots using the Internet and formulate a research paper using guidelines set out in the NJSLS-ELA. Students will learn how to construct SUMOBOT program. This program will allow the robot to sense color and make turns. Students will then work on the SUMOBOT program and redesign their robot to compete against one another in a Battlebot format. If possible, students will compete in a BattleBot competition with prizes awarded to the top competitors. This will depend upon the government regulations allowing students to interact this summer. 2021 STEM Education Programs St. Joes High Schoo Bridge the Gap This Summer By constructing computer programs, students will be prepared for the upcoming STEM jobs of the future. Especially in the field of Cyber-Security and Social Media. Click here to register Register at stemeducationllc.net Monday – Friday 9 am to 2:30 pm* (*Extended hours available until 4:30 pm) Held on the campus of Saint Joseph High School 145 Plain eld Avenue, Metuchen, NJ Friday. Certified Math and Science Teachers will lead classes every day from 9:00AM2:30PM. Extended day available for aftercare. Sessions change each week with different activities each day at Saint Joseph High School SPACE IS LIMITED SIGN UP FOR EACH WEEK PRE-REGISTRATION DISCOUNT IS AVAILABLE BEFORE MAY 30 FOR MORE INFORMATION CALL 732-599-1913St. Joes High School https://campscui.active.com/orgs/STEMEducationLLC? season=2814011&location=1416314 Extended hours available SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY ENGINEERING & MATH To be held on the campus of St. Joseph High School 145 Plainfield Ave. Metuchen NJ 08840 Learn the fundamentals of inquiry-based science and math activities that grow in complexity from teacher-guided to student-initiated investigations. Learn principles of computer programming and coding. Work with model rockets and robots to learn engineering, math and science principles. Work in teams and share in the fun as they compete with each other every Friday. To register, or for more information visit: stemeducationllc.net, Email: kkrobinson@gmail.com; or call 732-599-1913 Certifi ed Math and Science Teachers. Sessions change each week with di erent activities each day. Rocketry Students will learn Issac Newton's Laws of Motion and other aerodynamic principles while learning the basics of rocketry. Students will construct and launch rockets as they learn basic principles of physics. For more information contact STEM Education LLC at 732-599-1913 or email info@stemeducation.net Limited capacity for each session Early registration discount available Please register your student by clicking here 2021 STEM Education LLC Programs St. Joes High School https://campscui.active.com/orgs/STEMEducationLLC? season=2814011&location=1416314Register at stemeducationllc.net me, and the path I’m on is very fulfilling. God plants callings in your heart that can be hard to ignore.” Garcia, who is nearing the completion of her training program, says doing coursework with a baby at home and another on the way has rarely been easy, but she has been inspired by her son and her faith to not give up. “It’s God’s will and his plan for me right now, though sometimes it can be hard,” she said. Garcia, a communicant at Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Stratford ,is currently in a practicum section of her coursework, where she is looking for 10 couples to whom she can teach NFP. Those interested in learning more can contact Garcia at janinesirg@ gmail.com. Likewise, medical professionals interested in learning more about the scholarship program can reach D’Averso-Collins at cdaverso@diometuchen.org.

Salvatore Puleo, the father of Msgr. Sister M. Aurelia Jackiewicz, 85, a He is the son-in-law of the late Edward C. Puleo, pastor, St. Elizadevoted religious of the Little Servant Arduino and Maria D’Amico. Salvabeth-St. Brigid Parish, Far HillsSisters of the Immaculate Conception tore is survived by his sister-in-law, Peapack, died May 6, one month shy for 66 years who served as a teacher Johanna D’Amico, and many nieces of his 95th birthday. and principal at Our Lady of Lourdes and nephews, relatives, neighbors and He was born to Antonino and School, Milltown, died Feb. 8 at St. friends in the United States as well as Carmela Puleo in New York City, in Italy, Germany and Australia. but would return to the home of his Msgr. Puleo presided at the parents in Messina, Sicily, and live funeral Mass at St. Brigid Church, there until the age of 20, when he re- Peapack, May 11. Bishop James F. turned to the United States. He loved Checchio attended the liturgy.. his Catholic faith and his family and In a note to parishioners on the took great pride in the care of his parish website about the wake and garden, most especially his fig trees. funeral Mass, Msgr. Puleo wrote: In addition to Msgr. Puleo, he is survived by his wife, Silvana Estate Planning “By now many of you have heard that my dear father, Salvatore passed into (née D’Amico); Anthony and his □ Last Will and Testament eternal life on May 6 surrounded by □ Income Only Trust wife Joanne; a sister, Maria DiVerde □ Power of Attorney his loving family. Please know of my □ Asset Protection (late husband Giovanni); Peter Puleo and his wife, Frances; and the late □ Living Will gratitude for the many expressions of sympathy and prayers already conAngelina Crino (Mariano), Ninetta Pino (Giuseppe), Giuseppa Baressi Elder Law veyed for my mother, my family and myself. I ask that you please continue (Salvatore), Rosa Puleo and Mariano □ Medicaid to pray for the repose of his soul.” Puleo.□ Guardianships Entombment was at St. Bernard He is also survived by grandsons Steven (Jennifer) and Joseph and, □ Social Security Cemetery, Bridgewater. In lieu of flowers, donations St. Elizabeth-St. Brigid Parish 129 Funeral arrangements were Taryn and Joseph; and great grandchildren, Nicholas, Alyssa and Avah. Estate Administration can be made to the Catholic Education Fund, Diocese of Metuchen, c/o Main Street — PO Box 33, Peapack, NJ 07977. handled by Blair-Mazzarella Funeral Home, Brooklyn, N.Y.

Joseph Nursing Center, Woodbridge. Poland. Beginning in 1972, she served

She had been a member of the as a teacher and principal at three elcommunity at the Provincialate, Cher- ementary schools in New Jersey. ry Hill, since 2013. She also served as superior at St.

Baptized Halina, she entered the John Retreat House, Atlantic City. congregation in 1955, and professed Sister Aurelia was committed to her perpetual vows in 1962. She was a prayer and to her community. Open to dedicated trained religious educator in people, her ministry in Poland was in the time of communism. In her new world of New Jersey, she endeared herself to her students and had the gift of hospitality. She loved helping the poor and gardening. A funeral Mass was celebrated Ciechanowski Funeral Home, Runnemede. for Sister Aurelia Feb. 13 at the Pro- Memorial contributions in Sister vincialate Chapel. Aurelia’s memory may be sent to the Interment was at St. Joseph’s Little Servant Sisters, Provincialate, Cemetery, Chews Landing. 1000 Cropwell Road, Cherry Hill, NJ Arrangements were handled by 08003 □ Estate Planning □ Asset Sheltering

□ Probate □ Will Contests AROUND THE DIOCESE □ Asset Distribution □ Taxes □ Accounting

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Bishop James F. Checchio, center, celebrates Mass at St. Brigid Church, Peapack, during a pastoral visit May 8. Bishop Checchio returned to the church May 11 to attend the funeral Mass for Salvatore Puleo, the father of Msgr. Edward C. Puleo, (left,) pastor, St. Elizabeth and St. Brigid parishes in Far Hills and Peapack. — Frank Wojciechowski photo

Pastoral Visit

Bishop James F. Checchio recently visited the Augustinian Recollect Nuns at their monastery in Belvidere. Posing with the bishop are Mother Beatriz (left), superior; Mother Rosita, general superior of the Federation of Mexico who lives in Mexico City; and Mother Guadalupe, secretary and former general superior.

—photo courtesy of Bishop James F. Checchio

Kids Corner: Paul, Silas tell jailer about Jesus

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service

stripped, beaten with rods and thrown into prison. The jailer was ordered to guard them securely, so he put them in the innerPaul and Silas traveled from city to city most cell and secured their feet to a stake. telling people about God and Jesus. About midnight, Paul and Silas were

One day, they traveled to the Roman praying and singing hymns to God as the colony of Philippi in Macedonia, in what other prisoners listened. is now the north of Greece. There they Suddenly, there was an earthquake so encountered a slave girl who severe that the jail’s foundation was possessed with an oracular spirit. The spirit made it so she Suddenly, shook. All the doors flew open, and all the prisoners’ chains were could tell fortunes, and her for- there was an pulled loose. tunetelling made a lot of money for her masters. earthquake The jailer awoke and saw the open doors. He became

She followed Paul and so severe distraught and was going to kill Silas for several days, shouting, “These people are slaves of the that the jail’s himself, thinking that all the prisoners had escaped. Most High God, who proclaim to you a way of salvation.” foundation “Do no harm to yourself; we are all here,” Paul shouted.

Paul finally became an- shook. All the The jailer rushed to where noyed and cast out the spirit in Jesus’ name. doors flew Paul and Silas were and fell down before them, trembling in

When the girl’s masters open, and all fear. saw that their moneymaking opportunity was gone, they seized the prisoners’ “Sirs, what must I do to be saved?” he asked. Paul and Silas and dragged them to the public square before the chains were “Believe in the Lord Jesus and you and your household will local authorities. pulled loose. be saved,” they said.

“These people are Jews Paul and Silas told the jailer and are disturbing our city and and his family about God and are advocating customs that are not lawful Jesus, and all were baptized. The jailer for us Romans to adopt or practice,” they brought Paul and Silas into his house, prosaid. vided a meal and rejoiced at having come

The authorities had Paul and Silas to faith in God and Jesus.