September 19, 2019

South River parish celebrates 75th anniversary, pages 20 & 22

Spirit atholic C THE

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 • VOL. 24 NO. 16 • $2.00

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

Bishop celebrates Mass for inmates

By Karen Corpora Correspondent

UNION TOWNSHIP — For most Catholics, going to Mass means going to their parish church. Inmates at the Edna Mahon Women’s Correctional Facility in Annandale, however, attend Mass not in their parish, but in their prison’s library, except on special occasions. One of those times was Aug. 28.

Located in the minimum security area of the prison grounds surrounded by barbed wire is the Good Shepherd Church of Clinton. It was built on the Clinton Farms property in 1912. It is where, on his second visit to the prison, Bishop James F. Checchio celebrated Mass.

Accompanying the bishop on his pastoral visit were members of the prison ministry at Immaculate Conception Parish in Annandale. Volunteers for the ministry go to the Edna Mahan Women’s Correctional Facility several times a month. Every other week, one of the priests from their parish attends to celebrate Mass for the inmates, the location for which alternates between the maximum and minimum security areas.

According to the parish website, the congregation of Immaculate Conception includes the prison population of the Edna Mahan Facility for Women. Weekly communion services are held for prisoners in both the minimum and maximum security areas. Two to three times a year, an eight-week diocesan based Bereavement Program is offered, and the slots are always filled. Bible Study and Rite

Inmates listen as Bishop James F. Checchio gives the homily during Mass he celebrated Aug. 28 at Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women.

— Ed Koskey Jr. photo

Continued on page 7

INSIDE Perspectives Our Faith

Journey Begins

4 18-19

Around the Diocese

26

Diocesan Events

27

Classifieds

27

Member of diocese professes first vows to become priest for for Marian Fathers...3 This issue was mailed on September 17 Your next issue will be October 3

2

Faithful invited, challenged to be attentive to needs of poor

UP FRONT

My brothers and sisters in Christ,

Bishop James Checchio

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

This edition of our “Catholic Spirit” pays tribute to our catechists. How blessed we are to have an army of men and women, from the young to the more senior, who volunteer to serve in this wonderful ministry, helping our youth to know Jesus and His Church better through the many different catechetical programs our parishes host. In fact, the formation of our children as faithful disciples of the Lord is one of the most important works of the Church. St. Paul in his letter to the Romans expresses our gratitude for those who bring the good news to others beautifully: “And how can they believe in the one of whom they have not heard? And how can they hear without someone preaching to them?

And how can anyone preach unless they are sent? As it is written: “How beautiful are the feet of those who bring good news!”

Another blessing in our diocese is our Catholic schools and last week I had the chance to visit two – St. Ann in Raritan and St. Thomas the Apostle in Old Bridge. It was a joy to visit with the wide-eyed students, dedicated teachers and administrators. As you have heard me say before, one of the many blessings I have found in serving as the Bishop of Metuchen is the opportunity to visit our parishes and schools. The chance to support and witness the different catechetical and service initiatives taking place is so encouraging.

I was sad to learn, however, that for nearly 115,000 people, just in our fourcounty diocese, poverty is a day-to-day reality. Here in the Diocese of Metuchen,

we are blessed with a rich diversity of ethnicities, cultures, languages, religions, and a broad economic diversity, too. The four counties in our diocese – Middlesex, Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren – are some of the wealthiest areas in our state, yet poverty continues to rise, especially in urban areas where there is an alarmingly high poverty and school dropout rate, some of the highest in the state.

Poverty has a significant impact on a family’s ability to provide children with a quality education. Economic disadvantage is, in many ways, associated with educational disadvantage and yet, a quality education is critical to breaking the cycle of poverty. As a diocese, we are committed to education and, particularly, the education of the poor. Catholic schools in the Diocese of Metuchen work hard to give parents a choice by keeping Catholic education available and as affordable as possible to ensure our schools are for everyone, rich or poor. Our diocese provided $796,250 in scholarships to needy students for this current year, thanks to donations from you, our faithful to the diocese and in the annual collection as well as from interest on some endowed funds held by the diocese in a sacred trust for this purpose.

As a new further effort, I am grateful for the recent establishment of Hope through Education, a newly incorporated, independent, nonprofit charitable organization. Hope through Education was established by lay people from throughout the diocese to try to close the educational gap by providing low-income families with partial tuition scholarships for children K-12 to attend private and parochial schools located in our four counties. This will be a God-send. As an independent nonprofit corporation, even businesses not able to donate to the Church are able to offer hope to the children of our diocese by helping them to attend private and Catholic schools. Through this partnership, I am indeed hopeful that we can make our Catholic schools even more

Catholic Spirit THE

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

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

The Catholic Spirit P.O. Box 191 • Metuchen, NJ 08840 PHONE: (732) 562-2424 • FAX: (732) 562-0969 PUBLISHER Bishop James F. Checchio EDITOR Father Timothy A. Christy, V.G. MANAGING EDITOR Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD (732) 562-2461

ASSOCIATE EDITOR Chris Donahue (732) 529-7935

ADVISOR Joanne Ward BUSINESS MANAGER Judy Leviton • (732) 529-7934 ADVERTISING REPRESENTATIVE Nanette M. Kubian • (732) 765-6444

GRAPHIC DESIGNER Jill Gray • (732) 529-7956 ADMINISTRATIVE ASSISTANT Laura Ferreras • (732) 529-7932

e-Mail: news@catholicspirit.com Subscription and advertising deadlines: Tuesday, 1 p.m.

The acceptance of advertising by The Catholic Spirit for print or online publication, does not constitute an endorsement of any product or service. The Catholic Spirit reserves the right to reject any advertising it considers objectionable.

The Catholic Spirit is a member of the Catholic Press Association and the New Jersey Catholic Advertising Network The Catholic Spirit (U.S.P.S.#14-804) is published every other week, by the Roman Catholic Church, Diocese of Metuchen, 146 Metlars Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854. Subscription price is $30 per year. Periodicals postage paid at Bellmawr, NJ and additional mailing office.

POSTMASTER: Send change of address notice to The Catholic Spirit, 146 Metlars Lane, Piscataway, NJ 08854.

accessible to our youth.

In its first organizational year, Hope through Education offered 26 scholarships of need-based tuition-assistance, totaling $74,000, to qualified low-income students living in our diocese and though that amount is significant, the need is even greater. From the applications for tuition assistance we receive each year, low-income applicants are in need of more than $2 million in tuition assistance. There is great need, but gratefully we are blessed with resources throughout our diocese too.

As Pope Francis reminds us, “parents themselves enjoy the right to choose freely the kind of education – accessible and of good quality – which they wish to give their children in accordance with their convictions.” (Amoris Laetitia, 84).

I invite and challenge you to be attentive to the needs of the poor, especially the economically disadvantaged youth in our diocese. They are our future, but they are our present, too. We must recognize the need to provide them with a quality, values-based education, so that they

have the opportunity to develop to their full potential, grow in their love for the Lord and his Church, and take the Gospel message out into the world. Through our commitment and generosity, let us together take this concrete step to reduce the long-term impact of poverty and prepare the way so that all children may have a bright future.

Please pray for the success of Hope through Education and, also for all of our young people, as they begin a new school year and another year of catechetical formation, growing in their own discipleship. Be assured of my love, gratitude and prayers for you, even as I ask for your prayers for me and my ministry here too.

With renewed best wishes, I remain Yours in Christ,

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

The Bishop’s Schedule

Sept. 22 Sept. 26 Sept. 27 Sept. 28 Sept. 29 Sept. 29 Oct. 1 Oct. 2 Oct. 3 Oct. 5

Sept. 19 11:45 a.m. Mass at McAuley Hall for the Sisters of Mercy Retreat, Watchung Sept. 21 “The Way of St. Juan Diego”Walking Pilgrimage and 6:00 p.m. Concluding Mass for Marian Consecration Walking Pilgrimage at Immaculate Conception Parish, Annandale Sept. 22 10 a.m. Mass at Our Lady of the Mount Parish, Warren Noon Mass of Installation of Pastor at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Martinsville 10 a.m. New Jersey Coalition of Religious Leaders Meeting, Newark 11:30 a.m. Blessing of the new Birthing Center and Genetics Department at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, New Brunswick 4 p.m. Mass and Gala for the 50th Anniversary of the school at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, Edison 9 a.m. Mass at St. Stanislaus Kostka Parish, Sayreville 10:30 a.m. Mass at Our Lady of Victories Parish, Sayreville 7:30 p.m. Blessing of Roses at the Carmelite Monastery, Flemington 5 p.m. Confirmation at St. John the Evangelist Parish, Lambertville 5 p.m. Confirmation at Most Holy Redeemer Parish, Old Bridge 4 p.m. Mass for the 75th Anniversary of St. Edward the Confessor Parish, Milford

For updates on Bishop Checchio's schedule visit: http://diometuchen.org/bishop/schedule

New victim assistance coordinator Paule Galette, a licensed clinical social worker, is the new victim assistance coordinator for the diocese. In accord with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People adopted by the U.S. bishops, the coordinator addresses the diocese’s outreach to abuse victims/ survivors. This includes the provision of counseling, spiritual assistance, and other support services. Galette can be contacted by phone at (732) 439-4730 or by e-mail at pgalette@ccdom.org.

Correction

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 law enforcement and/or by contacting 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/report-a-suspected-abuse.

In a photo caption on page 12 of the Sept. 5 edition of “The Catholic Spirit,” the name of Edna Argüello-Hitchner was misspelled.

3

Image Week

of the

By Chris Donahue Associate Editor Growing up in the spiritual home of St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park, Brother Nicholas Riccardi said had a “strong sense of closeness” to Mary, the mother of Jesus, “even at a young age.”

On Aug. 15, the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Mother into Heaven, that closeness inspired Brother Nicholas to be one of five men who professed their first vows as members of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception of the Most Blessed Virgin

Marians of the Immaculate Conception Brother Nicholas Riccardi, second from right, poses with (from left) Brother Steve Castellano, Brother Stephen Murphy, Father Jim McCormick, Father Fidele Malanga and Brother Ben Bobadilla.

Continued on page 11

The image, which was featured on page 3 of the September 5 issue of The Catholic Spirit, can be found at St. Jude Parish, Blairstown.

Rita Stauffer, parishioner at St. Jude, Blairstown.

To be a winner, you must call (732) 562-2424 after 9 a.m. Monday.

The first caller to correctly identify the image and its location will receive a one year subscription, renewal or gift subscription to The Catholic Spirit. Those who correctly identify an image are not eligible to take another guess for 90 days.

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

“There is no greater joy that can be offered from God than the life that he lived himself — a life lived in poverty, chastity, and obedience. I cannot express in words what my heart knows and continues to experience,” he added.

As a seminarian, Brother Nicholas will study to earn a bachelor’s degree in philosophy at Franciscan University, Steubenville, Ohio. After that, he will continue his formation to the priesthood at the Dominican House of Studies, Washington, D.C., where he plans to earn a Master of Divinity degree.

How and where he will exercise his ministry as a priest for the Marian Fathers will be determined after he is ordained.

As for what advice he would give to someone considering a vocation to the priesthood or religious life, Brother Nicholas said it is “a reiteration of what one of my vocation directors told me not too long ago: ‘Go all in. If you think you are called, give it everything.

Don’t just dip your toes in the water but immerse yourself in it.’”

According to his mother, Brother Nicholas was home-schooled from kindergarten to fifth grade, then attended St. Augustine of Canterbury School from grades six to eight.

He attended Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville, for ninth and 10th grades, then was home-schooled

Last issue's image...

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Marians of the Immaculate Conception Brother Nicholas Riccardi cuts a piece of cake at a reception after a Mass in which he professed first vows. Brother Nicholas, who was raised in St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall, Park, is a seminarian at Franciscan University, Steubenville, Ohio. — photos courtesy of Laura Riccardi

Mary at Mass at the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy, Stockbridge, Mass.

Father Kazimierz Chwalek, provincial superior, accepted and confirmed their one-year vows on behalf of the Marian Fathers, a congregation of about 500 priests and brothers in 20 countries around the world who seek to lead souls to Jesus through Mary.

“My family would always pray a rosary together sometime after dinner and it was in my elementary years when I had made my first consecration to her using St. Louis de Montfort’s guide [“Total Consecration to Jesus Christ through Mary”],” said Brother Nicholas in an interview a couple weeks after the Mass.

“Fostering a devotion to Mary was intuitive for me because of my relationship with my mother, Laura Riccardi.

After all, children are able to recognize and develop a relationship with God and Mary through the example of their parents. My parents [Laura and Len], at all points in my life, were beyond exemplary.”

Brother Nicholas, 21, noted that Mary is such a part of his community’s life because it bears her name three times in its title. “By carrying her name it is our responsibility and joy to live out that blissful mystery of the Immaculate Conception,” he said. “As her children, we are called to be made immaculate like her in all things. There is never a day when she is not part of our daily life.”

During and after the profession of vows ceremony, Brother Nicholas said, his overwhelming feeling was “a profound sense of deep rest and peace.”

SPECIAL FEATURE

Where in the diocese can it be found?

The winner is...

4 PERSPECTIVES

Defending Catholic faith to those who question it Body & Soul

By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD Some of the early fathers of the Church were labeled “Apologists” because the focus of their work was on a defense of the faith or, more specifically, a defense of the teaching of the Church on a particular tenet of faith or morals. If we take a look at the work of the apologists, they were not against Greek philosophy but desired to show that Christianity and philosophy were not mutually exclusive. In addition to Origen and Tertullian, early Christian apologists include Justin Martyr, Clement of Alexandria. St. Athanasius and St. Augustine.

Before we can defend what the Church teaches and why, it is imperative that we first know what the Church believes about a particular doctrine. A hypothetical case in point would be the following. A fundamentalist Christian alleges: “Catholics worship Mary and are therefore idolaters.” An apologetic response would be: “Catholics

only worship God. Still, we venerate Mary because she is the sinless mother of Jesus and, by His mandate from the Cross to the beloved disciple, our mother. By the graces given to her from Christ, she is our advocate. Mary has complete God-dependency and is for all of us, a model of what a Christian should be. Because she is our mother, and has attained beatitude in Heaven, we call on Mary to intercede for us in prayer.”

Notice how in the above “defense” there is no name-calling, no derogatory or pejorative words.

Apologetics does not equate anger.

Having knowledge of the faith is the prerequisite to apologetics however, it is necessary to argue a point intelligibly, in terms another could understand, calmly and yet thoroughly is the proper way to defend the teaching of the Church.

The problem today is that we have a whole segment of baptized Catholics who do not know what we believe. All too often, students approaching confirmation or, even marriage for that matter, are clueless when it comes to a grasp of what the Church teaches in the realm of faith and morals.

Since parents are the primary educators of the faith in the life of their children, it

follows that they should have a thorough grasp of what the Church teaches. To acquire this knowledge, I highly recommend purchasing a copy of “The Cathechism of the Catholic Church.” It is a great reference book. It is easy to read and explains, in detail, what the Church teaches or, from another perspective, what we believe. Following the structure of the Nicene-Constantinople Creed, “The Catechism of the Catholic Church” parses each tenet of the faith, explicating both its origin and how it took final form in the Creed.

It is not realistic to leave apologetics to the traditional teachers of the faith: priests, deacons, religious, lay people with advanced degrees in theology. These individuals are a support team. However, their task is to take what begins at home and broaden the discussion of what we believe to a larger arena, such as the people in the pews at Mass or, in adult education classes, to elicit discussion, entertain questions, and find creative ways in which to bring this teaching of the Church to life in a meaningful way.

Is there room for apologetics in the classroom? “Yes.” Is there a place for apologetics in preaching? “Yes.” Is there a need

to incorporate apologetics in the religion curriculum of both Catholic schools and religious education programs? “Absolutely.”

The whole point that I am trying to make is that apologetics is the domain of everyone in the Church. It is the fodder for discussion at home, in the classroom and from the pulpit. The Church craves apologetics and we, who are the Church, need it now.

Apologetics is not just a strategy of argumentation to be used with anti-Catholics. Within the Church, there are many Catholics who disagree with the teaching of the Church concerning the following topics: weekly Mass attendance; the need for baptism; abortion; in vitro fertilization; physician-assisted suicide; having Catholics only as baptismal sponsors; Communion after divorce and remarriage [without an annulment]; gay marriage; treatment of ashes following a cremation. Many of these individuals are in our families, workplace and parishes. Once more, we are not called to be aggressive, nasty, antagonistic. We are called to know what the Church teaches and defend this doctrine diplomatically, accurately, concisely and charitably.

Father Comandini is managing editor of The Catholic Spirit.

many different vulnerable people on the move and to pray for the challenges that they face every day.

On May 27, during a press conference, the Holy Father delivered his message for 2019 WDMR entitled, “It is not just about migrants.” In his address, he warns advanced societies against “extreme individualism which is producing a globalization of indifference” which, in turn, puts migrants and refugees at risk of exclusion and/or marginalization. Pope Francis asserts that the global crisis is not just about migrants, • “It is also about our fears.”

Our fears and doubts of the unknown can deprive us of the desire to encounter the other. Pope Francis urges us to view migrants as persons not as numbers or as problems to be solved.

• “It is about charity.” The Holy Father reminds us that the highest form of charity is shown to those who are unable to reciprocate or perhaps even thank us in return.

• “It is about our humanity.”

Compassion involves ‘suffering with’

another and makes us more human.

• “It is about the whole person, about all people.” Every human person has inherent dignity because he/she is made in the image and likeness of God. Pope Francis points to four verbs that can serve as our response to this era of migration: welcome, protect, promote and integrate. These words describe the Church’s mission “to build a city of God and man.”

As we approach World Day of Migrants and Refugees, how can we live out the Holy Father’s message? As a faith community, how do we educate others about the plight of migrants, debunk myths and encourage action on behalf of this vulnerable population?

In 2000, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops issued a pastoral statement entitled “Welcoming the Stranger Among Us: Unity in Diversity” which outlines the three basic principles of Catholic social teaching on immigration: • People have the right to migrate to sustain their lives and the lives of their families.

• A country has the right to regulate its borders and to control immigration.

• A country must regulate its borders with justice and mercy.

Understanding and appreciating Catholic social teaching helps us to put our faith into action. This statement explains these principals in depth and is an excellent resource and can be used as a study guide and discussion

starter within the parish or around the kitchen table (to read more visit: http:// www.usccb.org/issues-and-action/ human-life-and-dignity/immigration/ catholic-teaching-on-immigration-andthe-movement-of-peoples.cfm).

The current crisis at our southern border shows that our immigration system is overwhelmed and broken.

Unfortunately, immigration remains one of the most politically polarizing issues of our time, making it difficult for our elected officials to agree on any meaningful reform.

But the wisdom of the Bible is both simple and timeless. Here is a passage that tells us how we should treat immigrants, refugees, and those in need of help. “When a foreigner resides among you in your land, do not mistreat them.

The foreigner residing among you must be treated as your native-born. Love them as yourself, for you were foreigners in Egypt” (Lv 19:33-34).

It is essential that each of us carry this message into the dialogue that our country is having today. Lord, open our hearts so that we may provide hospitality for all who come in search of refuge.

Give us the courage to welcome and encounter every stranger as Christ in our midst. In the words of Pope Francis, “It is not only the cause of migrants that is at stake; it is not just about them, but about all of us, and about the present and future of the human family.”

Ruggiero is secretary, diocesan Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life

Scripture provides guidance on how to treat migrants “Be not forgetful to entertain strangers: for thereby some have entertained angels unawares.” (Heb 13:2)

Thoughts On Life

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

By Jennifer Ruggiero The United States and other countries around the globe are facing enormous humanitarian challenges in a world with more than 70 million refugees and displaced people – those who are fleeing violence, persecution and economic instabilities in their native countries – those who are seeking protection, security and a better future.

To help increase awareness, Pope Francis has designated Sunday, Sept.

29, as World Day of Migrants and Refugees (WDMR). The Church has been celebrating WDMR since 1914 as an occasion to express concern for

How to report abuse 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 law enforcement and/or by contacting 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/report-a-suspected-abuse.

SAO PAULO — After denouncing the record number of wildfires in the Amazon in August and the growing deforestation of the region, the Brazilian Catholic Church is pressuring the government to guarantee the safety of several Amazonian indigenous peoples, alerting the authorities of the imminent risk of genocide in northern Brazil.

“No indigenous people feels safe in Brazil right now. But the situation is particularly serious in the Amazonian state of Rondonia, where the peoples Uru-eu-wau-wau and Karipuna had their lands invaded, and in the state of Para, where the people Xikrin lives,” said Archbishop Roque Paloschi of Porto Velho, president of the Indigenous Missionary Council, or CIMI, a committee of Brazilian bishops’ conference. On Aug. 27, CIMI released a statement condemning President Jair Bolsonaro’s verbal attacks on the indigenous peoples of the Amazon. “Amid the environmental destruction caused by deforestation and criminal wildfires, especially in the Amazonian region, he maintains an incendiary attitude, with a repugnant aggressiveness directed to the native peoples and their right to a dignified existence,” said CIMI’s statement. Since his campaign in 2018, Bolsonaro has criticized environmental legislation and the “excessive number”

A member of the Shanenawa tribe observes an indigenous dance during a festival to celebrate nature and ask for an end to the burning of the Amazon in the indigenous village of Morada Nova near Feijo, Brazil, Sept. 1. The Brazilian Catholic bishops are pressuring the government to guarantee the safety of several Amazonian indigenous peoples.

— CNS photo/Ueslei Marcelino, Reuters

of indigenous reservations, promising to loosen restrictions on activities that affect the environment and to stop recognizing indigenous territories. On Aug.30, he again told journalists that “no new indigenous land” would be granted by the government, only the ones that he is “obliged” to demarcate.

Possible healing could advance sainthood cause

Venerable Henriette Delille, who founded the Sisters of the Holy Family in New Orleans in 1842, is seen in this restored photo taken around 1850. The Diocese of Little Rock, Ark., submitted formal documentation from a fact-finding mission regarding an alleged miracle, a healing through the intercession of Mother Henriette of a 19-year-old Arkansas college student in 2008.

— CNS photo/ courtesy Sisters of the Holy Family

Jesuits decry ‘thuggery, looting’ in African cities

A man walks past damaged shops after overnight unrest and looting in Johannesburg, South Africa, Sept. 3. “Xenophobic rhetoric leads to xenophobic behavior,” South African Jesuits warned after the violence.

— CNS photo/Marius Bosch, Reuters

CAPE TOWN, South Africa — South Africa’s Jesuit Institute condemned the latest flare-up of violence against foreign nationals and urged leaders to stop their xenophobic rhetoric. Police arrested at least 70 people in South Africa’s commercial capital, Johannesburg, Sept. 2, after protesters looted mostly foreignowned shops and set fire to cars and buildings in the second outbreak of urban rioting in a week. Earlier, hundreds of protesters in the administrative capital, Pretoria, set fire to buildings, looted shops and clashed with police, who fired rubber bullets at the crowds. The

Jesuit Institute “strongly condemns the deplorable violence, thuggery and looting,” it said in a Sept. 2 statement, noting that perpetrators of “these criminal acts must be held responsible.” It urged law enforcement agencies, “often working in difficult and dangerous situations, to work tirelessly to maintain law and order.” Some “leaders have contributed to this sad state of affairs by their irresponsible, populist remarks for political expediency,” it said. Words “have power and the ability to influence,” the institute said, noting that “xenophobic rhetoric leads to xenophobic behavior.”

Irish woman’s healing recognized as miracle DUBLIN — The Catholic Church in Ireland has confirmed that a woman who was seriously ill with multiple sclerosis experienced a complete healing of all her symptoms at Knock shrine in September 1989. The cure of Marion Carroll 30 years ago is the first officially recognized healing associated with Ireland’s national Marian shrine since an apparition witnessed by 15 people occurred there in August 1879. On Sept. 1, Bishop Francis Duffy of Ardagh announced to a packed basilica that the church had officially recognized 68-year-old Carroll’s healing. “Without doubt, there was a healing, a cure of the illness that beset Marion for several years,” Bishop Duffy told the congregation, many of whom were taking part in the annual diocesan pilgrimage. Carroll, her husband Jimmy, their two children and five grandchildren were in the congregation. “I recognize that Marion was healed from her longstanding illness while on pilgrimage in this sacred place,” Bishop Duffy said. It was his predecessor, Bishop Colm O’Reilly,

Marion Carroll, whose unexplained 1989 cure has been formally recognized as a miracle at Ireland’s Marian shrine in Knock, is pictured in this Sept. 2 photo.

— CNS photo/courtesy Marion Carroll family

who administered the blessing after which Carroll said she experienced “something beautiful.”

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

LITTLE ROCK, Ark. — For what could be the first time in the 176-year history of the Diocese of Little Rock, a diocesan tribunal submitted formal documentation to the Vatican on an alleged healing miracle of a former Arkansas college student. “We served as a fact-finding gathering source for the Holy See,” said Father Greg Luyet, judicial vicar of the diocese, who oversaw canonical procedures for this aspect of the sainthood cause. The documentation prepared for the Congregation for the Causes of Saints in Rome is one possible step for the beatification cause for Mother Henriette Delille, who founded the Sisters of the Holy Family in New Orleans. Her sainthood cause was opened in 1988 and was approved unanimously by U.S. bishops in 1997. She was declared venerable in 2010. If her canonization cause continues, she could be the first black saint from the U.S. Mother Delille was born in New Orleans in 1812. She died in 1862. The story of a possible miracle attributed to Mother Delille’s intercession, stems from Christine McGee who was a 19-year-old college student when the alleged healing happened in Little Rock, said Sister Doris Goudeaux, co-director of the Henriette Delille Commission Office.

Compiled from the Catholic News Service

WORLD & NATION

Prelates seek protection for indigenous peoples

5

WORLD & NATION

6 OUR DIOCESE

Special Visitor On Sept. 6, Bishop James F. Checchio visited St. Ann School, Raritan, to bless the parochial institution for the new year and meet students and parents. The blessing was done because of the new Catholic Classical Education program being introduced at St. Ann's. Above, the bishop speaks to eighth-graders during their religion period, which is taught by Oratorian Father Peter R. Cebulka, head of school. Above right, Religious Teachers Filippini Sister Margaret Mary T. Hanlon, principal, speaks to the parents and children regarding the program and thanks the bishop for his support of Catholic education and St. Ann's. Right, the bishop poses with faculty, some of the students and Oratorian Father Thomas A. Odorizzi, pastor, St. Ann Parish. — Mike Ehrmann photos

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Parker at Somerset Post-Acute Rehabilitation CMS

Five-Star Quality Rating

in All Categories SPECIALIZING IN: Stroke, Pulmonary, and Orthopedic Rehabilitation and Cardiac Care

732-545-4200 15 Dellwood Lane, Somerset Parkerlife.org |

OUR DIOCESE

Above, Bishop James F. Checchio, center; Father Jonathan S. Toborowsky, right, and Deacon Michael A. Meyer listen as Bienka Jean-Charles, an inmate at Edna Mahan Correction Facility for Women, reads the Gospel at Good Shepherd Church of Clinton. The church, which was built in 1912, is in the minimum security area of the prison. Right, inmates pray at the Mass.

— Ed Koskey Jr. photos

Above, Bishop James F. Checchio, center, gives the final blessing with Father Jonathan S. Toborowsky, right, and Deacon Michael A. Meyer at Mass for inmates at Edna Mahan Correctional Facility for Women. Left, inmate Lynn Wilson offers a sign of peace to other inmates at Mass Aug. 28. Edna Mahan Corrrectional Facilty for Women houses about 1,000 state-sentenced female inmates, according to its website.

— Ed Koskey Jr. photos

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

another one of their projects, the parof Christian Initiation of Adults ish volunteers would like to work on (RCIA) are also offered, which pro- restoring the cemetery. Some inmates vide impoverished women completing and some of their children are buried their sentences, emergency clothing, there. food and transportation to their homes.

“We have to go through several Commenting on the Immaculate steps to see if we could do a renovaConception volunteers, Julie Michaels tion,” Deacon Meyers said. “Some who attended RCIA classes and was of the tombstones are very old and baptized and confirmed at the cor- we want to repair them and find the rectional facility stated, “I was one of ones that are grown over through the the first people to be baptized Catholic years.” here in 2015. The people who come Edna Mahan was a reformative make us feel great inside. They bring type of supervisor. At the time she us church, positive energy served at Clinton Farms, and hope. They help us to women who were preg“It’s a very nice feel human. Sometimes nant would have their you don’t feel human here. children there and the thing for the I feel like they are part of children would live with bishop [James my family.” their mothers. The condiDebra Benigno noted, tions were less than ideal F. Checchio] to “It’s a very nice thing for at that time (early 1900’s) the bishop to come here. and many of the children come here. It’s a It’s a different feeling to died. They were buried different feeling have Mass in a church. behind the church. MaThat’s a privilege, I underhan was superintendant to have Mass in stand. But with the church of Clinton Farms for 40 a church. That’s here, it’s an extra blessyears. ing to be able to celebrate Reflecting on Immacua privilege, I here. It gives me a pleasant late Conception’s volunfeeling inside.” teers at the prison, Father understand.”

The Mass was celJonathan S. Toborowsky, —Debra Benigno ebrated on the feast of St. pastor said, “This ministry Augustine. Bishop Checis wonderful. When you chio said it was an honor and a privi- think of something like this, your mind lege for him to be there to celebrate creates fear and trepidation. But this is Mass and grateful to be able to cel- very organized and being with the inebrate it in the chapel. mates has been a wonderful experience.

“He [St. Augustine] has one of They are welcoming and it has been a the greatest conversion stories of our great blessing for me.

Church,” Bishop Checchio said. “This “There are people in the prison is a great story about the power of chaplain’s office who are good at prayer and how by his mother’s prayer identifying the needs of the ladies and he was converted. We should never we try to meet them,” he added. “One underestimate the power of prayer.” of the women who has a job here is He reminded those in attendance very faithful with sending us a tithe. to keep their prayer life strong.

She makes a small amount but every Baptized after going through the month she sends something small to RCIA program Evy Muniz said, “I the church. We have her in our records would like to thank the Church for be- as a contributing parishioner.” ing heartfelt and diligent and thinking Bishop Checchio said, “Certainly about us. We take ourselves a lot of I receive more than I give each time I places in life but we find little houses come here. These ladies are in tuned of God’s along the road. The great with what is going on in the diocese. thing is that he is always there and we One of them even sent me some money can just walk right in.” for the Bishop’s Annual appeal.”

Deacon Michael A. Meyer, who Deacon Meyer emphasized the works with the volunteers, said that need for more volunteers at the corthe parish is responsible for the spiri- rectional facility, which houses about tual needs of the Catholic population 1,000 state-sentenced female inmates, for Edna Mahan and Mountainview according to its website.

Youth Correctional Facility, also in “This is a wonderful ministry,” he Annandale. said. “Anyone who is interested should “We are trying to now build our contact the Immaculate Conception volunteer base to be able to offer Parish office and we will be happy to more help,” he said. “The bishop is walk them through the process.” very supportive and typically comes Joining the ministry would reflect and administers the sacraments when the Gospel: “When did we see you ill candidates are prepared to receive or in prison and visit you? The king baptism or confirmation.” will say to them in reply, ‘Amen I say After Mass, Bishop Checchio and to you, whatever you did for one of the volunteers toured the cemetery these least brothers or mine, you did behind Good Shepherd Church. As for me.’” (Mt 25:39-40) Continued from front page

7

Immaculate Conception Parish nurtures faith of women’s prison inmates

8 OUR DIOCESE SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Young adults gather at retreat for presentations, discussion, Mass NEW BRUNSWICK — Thirty-five ing us,” Glynn said. “Christ showed us young adults from the diocese gathered what we were worth when he died on to deepen their faith at a retreat held the cross for our sins. He showed that by the diocesan Office of Young Adult even in the midst of our sin he still loves Ministry at the Catholic Center at Rut- us. This does not give us the opportugers Aug. 17. nity to sin without consequences, but it The day included three separate rather calls us to rise above our sin just talks given by the director as Christ resurrected from of the office, John Glynn, the grave. We cannot do “Christ showed which focused on the this without his grace!” us what we were overall question — “Is it The last talk — “Is it worth it to be Catholic?” worth it?” — focused on worth when he The first talk — the story of the rich man “Who am I?” — focused died on the cross in the Gospel of Mark on trying to earn the love (Chapter 10: 17:31). In for our sins. He of God. the Gospel, the man asks “In today’s society, showed that even Jesus what he must do to people are told they can inherit eternal life. Jesus in the midst of our tells him to “know the be whoever they want to be,” Glynn said. “While Commandments.” When sin he still this is true and encourthe rich man tells Jesus ages dedication and dis“all of these I have obloves us." cipline, the reality is that served from my youth, —John Glynn, we should be whoever Jesus, looking at him, director, diocesan God has made us to be. loved him and said to Office of Youth and By diving into this, we him, ‘You are lacking in learn that we cannot earn one thing. Go, sell what Young Adult Ministry God’s love and he made you have, and give to us perfectly out of love.” [the] poor and you will The second talk — “What am I have treasure in heaven; then come, worth?” — focused on Christ’s love for follow me.” us.

At that statement the rich man’s “We did not earn this love, but we “face fell, and he went away sad, for he also cannot prevent the Lord from lov- had many possessions.”

Above, Msgr. Joseph G. Celano, pastor, St. Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish, New Brunswick, gives the homily at Mass to close the retreat at the Catholic Center at Rutgers.

Right, some of the 35 attendees engage in a conversation. — John Glynn photos “As we worked through this story,” Glynn said, “we notice that at the end Jesus states that ‘for man this is impossible, but for God all things are possible.’”

One of the young adults said, Continued on page 28

MASS FOR MASS FOR WORLD DAY WORLD DAY OF OF

MIGRANTS MIGRANTS

& REFUGEES REFUGEES &

September 29, 2019

September 29, 2019 11:15 AM 11:15 AM Rev. William J. Smith, Celebrant

St. Anthony Padua Parish Rev. William of J. Smith, Celebrant Port Reading Ave, St.436 Anthony of Padua Parish Port Reading, NJ 07064 436 Port Reading Ave, Port Reading, NJ 07064

The Church has been celebrating the

World Day ofhas Migrants Refugeesthe (WDMR) The Church been and celebrating since 1914. always anand occasion to express World DayItofisMigrants Refugees (WDMR) our concern many different vulnerable since 1914. Itfor is always an occasion to express people on thefor move; to different pray for the challenges our concern many vulnerable and increase thethe opportunities people on theawarenes move; toabout pray for challenges that migration offers. and increase awarenes about the opportunities that migration offers.

For 2019, Pope Francis has chosen the them

“It is not just about migrants” to show us our For 2019, Pope has no chosen the them blind-spots andFrancis make sure one remains “It is not just about migrants” show us our excluded from society, whetherto a long-time blind-spots and make sure no one remains resident or someone newly-arrived. excluded from society, whether a long-time resident or someone newly-arrived.

For more information call the Parish Office at 732-634-1403 or email human.life.and.dignity@diometuchen.org

For more information call the Parish Office at 732-634-1403 or email human.life.and.dignity@diometuchen.org

9

Visiting Prelates

OUR DIOCESE

Cardinal Raymond L. Burke, (holding crosier), presided at Mass at the Blue Army Shrine, Washington, Aug. 13. Cardinal Burke served as bishop of La Crosse, Wisc., where he founded the Shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe, and as archbishop of St. Louis. Masses are celebrated at the Blue Army Shrine on the 13th from May through October each year, the anniversaries of the six apparitions of Our Lady at Fatima in 1917. Posing with Cardinal Burke, from left: David Carollo, executive director, Blue Army Shrine, and his wife, Dorothy; Father Roy Quesea; Deacon Ranulfo Raymundo; Father Michael C. Saharic; Auxiliary Bishop Joseph N. Perry, Archdiocese of Chicago; Bishop Victor C. Ocampo, Diocese of Gumaca, Quezon Philippines; Benedictine Father Sylvester Jakakody; Father David V. Skoblow; Father Damian B. Breen; and Father Ramon Uriarte.

— Megan R. Pritchard photo

Please join us for our

OPEN HOUSE

DIOCESE OF METUCHEN CATHOLIC CEMETERIES

Sunday, October 13, 2019 Saturday, October 12, 2019 or 11:00 AM — 4:00 PM 9:00 AM — 4:00 PM

Resurrection Catholic Cemetery 899 Lincoln Avenue • Piscataway, NJ 08854 Light refreshments served

Premium glass niche bank for the cremated remains of your loved ones will be available

SPECIAL OPEN HOUSE INCENTIVES Save 10% on Crypt Space and Glass Niches for Cremated Remains. ($1,500 maximum discount, new purchases only)

Memorialization Opportunities Available For more information, call 800-943-8400 or visit our website: www.diometuchen.org/cemeteries We sincerely regret if this should reach any home where there is illness or sorrow, asOF this was certainly not intended.

MAUSOLEUM THE HOLY SPIRIT

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

Memorial Counselors will be available to answer your questions and assist you in pre-planning for your final resting place.

We look forward to meeting you.

10 OUR DIOCESE

Support System

On Aug. 31, many of the deacons and their wives from the diaconate Class of 2015 worshiped at Mass at Our Lady of Mount Virgin Church, Middlesex. Father Louis A. Mattina, parochial vicar, Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish, presided at the Mass. For more than five years — even before they were ordained — the deacons from the Class of 2015 have gathered together on the last Saturday of the month, rotating through their respective parishes for Mass before going to eat breakfast at a local diner, said Deacon Thomas G. Sommero, who exercises his ministry at Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish. Through regular corporate worship and fellowship, the deacons strengthen their ministry by supporting and encouraging each other, he said. Posing in the photo, front row, from left: Pat Sommero, Evie Fortune, Joanne Bresnan, Vivian Cline and Ann Gutsick. Back row, from left: Deacons Peter E. Barcellona, Thomas N. Bresnan, Patrick Gutsick, Patrick J. Cline, Thomas G. Sommero, Rick Fortune, Scott Titmas, Roel S. Mercado, Stephen Kassebaum, Thomas Griffoul, Gregorio Rios, and Annette Griffoul and Father Mattina.

— photo courtesy of Deacon Thomas G. Sommero

Solemn Rite

Sister Megan Gaven was recently received as a postulant into the novitiate of the Sisters of Jesus Our Hope in the chapel at the community’s Motherhouse in Bloomsbury, said Sister Christine Quense, Community Sister Servant. The rite included the resolve of Sister Megan to enter, the blessing of and reception of the veil, and the reception of the Constitution of the Sisters of Jesus Our Hope — all during the Mass presided over by Oratorian Father R. Peter Cebulka. In photo, Sister Christine presents the veil and constitution. Sister Megan will be a novice for two years, Sister Christine explained. The first of these years is dedicated to prayer and study of religious life, particularly the way of life of the Sisters of Jesus Our Hope. The second year is dedicated to serving in the apostolate with the Sisters — learning to integrate the contemplative and active dimensions of religious life. After two years of novitiate, Sister Megan should be prepared for her first profession of vows, which are renewed annually for five years before perpetual profession and full admission into the community.

— photo courtesy of Sisters of Jesus Our Hope

William D. Ard CRPS®

Chartered Retirement Planning Specialist Financial Advisor 150 John F Kennedy Pkwy Short Hills, NJ, 07078 (908) 518-5438 william.d.ard@morganstanley.com NMLS # 1293909

LIFE CHAIN

Sunday, October 6, 2019 2:00 - 3:30 pm (rain or shine)

LIFE CHAIN is a peaceful and prayerful public witness of individuals standing for 90 minutes praying for our nation, for an end to abortion and for an end to all violence

A PRAYERFUL WITNESS FOR LIFE!

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

© 2018 Morgan Stanley Smith Barney LLC. Member SIPC. CRC 2187362 08/18

Your Catholic Tour Company

Your Catholic Tour Company

Prices starting at $2,499 ~ with Airfare Included in this price Prices starting starting at at from $2,499 with Airfare Airfare Included in in this anywhere in the USA Prices $2,499 ~~with Included this price price

from anywhere in the USA

fromdestinations: anywhere in the the Holy USA Land; Italy; France, Several trips to different Several trips&toSpain; different destinations: the Holy Land; & Italy; France, Portugal, Poland; Medjugorje, Lourdes, Fatima; Several trips to different destinations: the Holy Land; Italy; France, Portugal, & Spain;England; Poland; Medjugorje, Lourdes, & Fatima; Ireland & Scotland; Austria, Germany, & Switzerland; Portugal, & Spain; Poland; Medjugorje, & Fatima; Greece Turkey; Budapest; Prague; OurLourdes, Lady & ofSwitzerland; Guadalupe; Ireland && Scotland; England; Austria, Germany, Ireland &&Scotland; England; Germany, Switzerland; Colombia; Brazil;Budapest; Argentina;Austria, Domestic etc…

Greece Turkey; Prague; OurDestinations; Lady of& Guadalupe;

FLEMINGTON Flemington Circle Route 31 to Main Street Contact: Jim Vargas 908-391-1566

PHILLIPSBURG St. Philip & St. James Church 430 South Main Street Contact: Colleen Wolters 908-454-9880

GREAT MEADOWS St. Peter & Paul Church 360 Route 46 Contact: Eileen Wyss 908-637-4269 PERTH AMBOY New Brunswick Avenue Contact: Msgr. Gordon 732-442-0512

SAYREVILLE 855 Washington Rd. (at the high school) Contact: Janice O’Brien 732-727-1879 SOMERVILLE Somerset Street & Mountain Ave. Contact: Kevin Dugan 908-788-7736

WASHINGTON in front of Planned Parenthood 66 East Washington Street (Rt. 57) Contact: Joyce Lopez at 908-689-2462

& Turkey; Budapest; Prague; OurDestinations; Lady of Guadalupe; WeGreece also specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests, andetc…

Deacons.

Colombia; Brazil; Argentina; Domestic Colombia; Brazil; Argentina; Domestic Destinations; etc…

www.proximotravel.com 508-340-9370 We and Deacons.

Deacons.

We also also specialize specialize Hablamos Españolin custom trips for Bishops, Priests,855-842-8001 anthony@proximotravel.com Call us 24/7 www.proximotravel.com 508-340-9370 www.proximotravel.com 508-340-9370 Hablamos Español 855-842-8001 Hablamos Español 855-842-8001

For more information contact the Office of Human Life & Dignity, Diocese of Metuchen 732-562-1990, ext. 1543 or 1629; amarshall@diometuchen.org; or visit www.diometuchen.org

Continued from page 3

The The Shrine Shrine of of St. St. Joseph Joseph GIFT & BOOK SHOP GIFT SHOP 1050 Long& HillBOOK Road, Stirling , NJ 07980

1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling, NJ 07980 A Mission of the Missionary Servants of the Most Holy Trinity Seven-Day The Sister Servants of Jesus invite our friends, old and new, Seven-Day The Sister Servants of Jesus invite our friends, old and new, Prayer to visit our charming Gift and Book Shop, featuring a wide Prayer Intention to visit our charming Gift and Book Shop, featuring a wide Intention array of religious selections for you and your loved ones.

Candles! array of religious selections for you and your loved ones.

Candles!

Religious Books • DVDs • CDs • Cards • Bibles • Gifts • Medals Religious Books • DVDs• Boys • CDs&• Girls CardsCommunion • Bibles • Gifts • Medals Rosaries • Statues • Crosses Clothes & More Rosaries • Statues • Crosses • Boys & Girls Communion Clothes & More

908-647-2766 •• www.stshrine.org 908-647-2766 www.stshrine.org Hours: M-Sat: 10am - 5pm • Sun: 11am - 3pm Hours: M-Sat: 10am - 5pm • Sun: 11am - 3pm

Marians of the Immaculate Conception Brother Nicholas Riccardi, middle, poses with his parents, Len and Laura; sister, Janie; Janine Rosario, girlfriend of Brother Nicholas’ brother, Peter (far right), after Mass and profession of vows at the National Shrine of The Divine Mercy, Stockbridge, Mass. Not shown are Brother Nicholas’ godparents and other family members who attended the Mass.

— photos courtesy of Laura Riccardi

of this world, which you renounced at your baptism. May the Lord vest you in ‘the new man,’ who was created according to God in justice and true holiness.”

Since 1945, Marian Press, the publishing apostolate of the Congregation of Marians of the Immaculate Conception, has published and distributed millions of religious books, magazines, brochures, and pamphlets

that teach, encourage, and edify Catholics around the world. Marian Press publications promote the ministry and work of the Marians, according to the congregation’s website.

Marian Press is best known as the exclusive publisher of the bestselling “Diary of Saint Maria Faustina Kowalska” and the leading authority of The Divine Mercy message and devotion.

Bishop James F. Checchio invites couples celebrating their 25th or 50th wedding anniversaries to join him for a

Silver and Gold Wedding Anniversary Evening Prayer Service Sunday, October 27, 2019 • 4 p.m.

Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi

548 Main Street, Metuchen, NJ 08840

Celebrating couples will be invited to renew their vows.

Register by October 7 online: diometuchen.org/silverandgold Once you have registered, you will receive a confirmation email.

There is no cost to attend, but donations will be accepted.

Sponsored by the Diocese of Metuchen's Office of Family Life For more information:

please call (732) 562-1543 or email: amarshall@diometuchen.org

DIOMETUCHEN.ORG • CATHOLICSPIRIT.COM

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

Brother Nicholas Riccardi, left, wears a Blue Scapular of Our Lady presented by Father Kazimierz Chwalek, provincial superior, during his profession of vows.

ing invitation to become a priest. My husband, Len, and I have always counseled our four children to seek God's will in their lives, telling them that every vocation is holy but that true happiness can only be found when one fully becomes who God created them to be.

“The best parenting advice we ever received was to consecrate each of our babies in the womb to the Blessed Virgin Mary. Giving our children to Mary was the greatest assurance we could have that they would always stay close to Jesus. Len and I made our own personal Marian consecration over 15 years ago and each of our children, on their own initiative, also made a personal consecration to Mary. We do believe this was the fruit of praying the family rosary together for many years.”

She noted with a laugh that the couple prayed a 54-day novena in advance, asking the Blessed Mother for the grace to say the rosary every day with four small children.

During the ceremony, the men took the vows of chastity, poverty, and obedience for one year. With the vows, they became brothers. Following the profession, Father Chwalek said, “I earnestly commend you to God Almighty and to Mary Immaculate, our mother and patroness, that you may be able to joyfully and faithfully carry out your vows, unite with God, [and] attain holiness and eternal life.”

He then presented the new brothers with the Blue Scapular of Our Lady, which serves as a sign of honoring and imitating Mary, an invitation for the wearer “to give Christ ... your undivided service in the Church.”

The new brothers then walked to the sacristy where, for the first time, they donned ecclesiastic garments.

The change of clothing — from the white shirts and black pants of novices to black clerical garb — symbolizes the putting away of the old life and the taking up of the new.

Father Chwalek prayed that God “remove from your heart the vanity

OUR DIOCESE

his junior and senior years.

Brother Nicholas attended Ave Maria University (Fla.) for three semesters before joining the Marians at age 20 at their house in Washington, D.C. He made his Marian consecration (St Louis de Montfort) when he was in the fourth grade at the National Shrine which, she said, “coincidently or Godincidentally, was a stone’s throw away from the Marian Fathers residence on the campus of Catholic University.”

Laura said she is not surprised that her son was eventually led to a religious community that “seeks to lead souls to Jesus through Mary” because it is “a very natural outcome of the entrustment he lives.”

“We are so grateful to our Blessed Mother for the tenderness and affection she has shown all of our children and her constant care in bringing them to a closer relationship with Our Lord,” she said.

When asked how she and her husband felt about being present at his first vows, Laura said, “It is a joy to witness [Brother] Nicholas’ whole-hearted response to God’s lov-

11

St. Augustine of Canterbury parishioner begins formation to priesthood

12 OUR DIOCESE

Choir members deepen faith on summer spiritual journey to Europe

By Christina Leslie Correspondent The St. Francis Cathedral choir bid adieu to Metuchen during the summer as they embarked on an eight-day pilgrimage to France.

Thomas A. DeLessio, coordinator, diocesan Liturgical Music, led a group of 21 singers and as many guests as they travelled to churches and historical sites in Normandy, Lisieux, Mont-Saint-Michel, Chartres and Paris.

The choir shared their vocal talents during both Masses and informal recitals, including at such sites as in the crypt of the Basilica of St. Therese of Lisieux, known as the “Little Flower” and named as a Doctor of the Church; in the Cathedral of Notre Dame at Chartres, famed worldwide for its awe-inspiring stained glass windows, and in the chapel at the base of Mont-Saint-Michel, where the Benedictine Abbey is perched high above the ground.

Another highlight of the trip BE LOUD WITHOUT LIMITS was the choir’s performance at the Normandy American Cemetery and Memorial, where 9,387 American military dead are buried, many of whom died during the D-Day invasion June 6, 1944.The rows of graves, each adorned with white crosses, served as a solemn reminder of the soldiers’ sacrifice during World War II. “ItHERE’S was such a meaningful expeAP

HIC & PRI

SO

LUTIONS

AP

HIC & PRI N

GR

GR

T

SAVE THE DATE

S

SO LUTIONS I M LI D W ITHOUT

E

T

B

L

OF

NT

OU

SAVE5,THE SATURDAY, OCTOBER 2019 DATE • 7:30PM

YOUR PROOF JOB #

OF

PRODUCT

STD Card

SIZE

9”w x 6”h

QUANTITY CLIENT

11:08AM

60075

rience, very memorable,” DeLessio recalled.

A trip to the Louvre Museum, where pilgrims gathered near the painting of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of the Metuchen cathedral; a sunset riverboat cruise along the Seine, and visits to famed Parisian sites such as the Eiffel Tower, the Tomb of Napoleon and the Champs Elysees also engaged the pilgrims.

DeLessio explained the impetus behind the pilgrimage, noting, “We tried to have experiences that will help grow the faith in us and make Front us perform our ministry better. Once you make prayer integral, and target locations to visit which are important Front to the faith, it is a pilgrimage. It is meaningful to us as Christians.”

Front

SAVE DATE presentsTHE a benefit concert

THE FOUNDATION OF MORRIS OCTOBER HALL / ST. LAWRENCE, SATURDAY, 5, 2019INC. • 7:30PM THE FOUNDATION OF MORRIS HALL / ST. LAWRENCE, INC.

presents a benefit concert

TBD St Law

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2019 • 7:30PM THE FOUNDATION OF MORRIS HALL / ST. LAWRENCE, INC.

DATE February11,201911:08AM

that of’s cy.

DF is may print and

and

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

11:08 ibleAM

er that of’s DF cy.is may ible print er

presents a benefit concert

It is very important that you review this proof’s content for accuracy.

SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5, 2019 Please Note: This PDF is 7:30 P.M. proof quality and may We are not responsible for any errors after proof approval.

not be suitable for print reproduction.

PATRIOTS THEATER NOTES at the

Dotted outline TRENTON indicates the edge andWAR will not print.

MEMORIAL

The Philly POPS® with Conductor Todd Ellison, are pleased to present “Motown’s Greatest Hits” with vocal quartet Spectrum!

GENERAL ADMISSION: TICKET PRICES RANGE $35-$90 Call 215-893-1999 or visit www.ticketphiladelphia.org to purchase.

For information about patron tickets or sponsorships, please contact Jane Millner at 609-896-9500, ext 2215 or jmillner@slrc.org.

The concert will benefit the patients and residents of St. Lawrence Rehabilitation Center and Morris Hall.

Top left, members of the St. Francis Cathedral Choir, under the direction of Thomas A. DeLessio, sing at the Normandy American Cemetery in Colleville-sur-Mer, France. The cemetery overlooks Omaha Beach, where American troops landed along with Utah Beach on D-Day, June 6, 1944. About 2,500 American solidiers died on the beaches at Normandy. Top right, a poster outside the Cathedral of Our Lady of Chartres lists the St. Francis Cathedral Choir as singing for the anticipated Mass of July 13. Bottom photo shows the Basilica of St. Thérèse, Lisieux. The pilgrims also visited the Louvre Museum in Paris, where they saw what is believed to be one of the first paintings (1235-1240) of St. Francis of Assisi.

— photos courtesy of Thomas A. DeLessio and Jim DeGeorge

13

Rev. Krystian Burdzy and the parish family of Good Shepherd in Hopelawn

CATECHETICAL SUNDAY

asks God’s blessings on our Catechists.

Thank you for sharing your faith with our youth.

S E P T E M B E R 15 , 2 019

Fr John Pringle and the Community of St. Joseph in Bound Brook extend our thanks and ask God’s Blessings on our Religious Education staff, Ana Valencia, Kathy Champignon and our Catechists, as they share God’s message of love to the youth of our Parish.

With Heartfelt Gratitude to

CATECHETICAL SUNDAY

Celebrate

Our Catechists, Aides and Volunteers Thank You for All of Your Time and Effort.

May the Holy Spirit Always Guide You in Your Ministry.

Our Lady of Czestochowa Parish South Plainfield, NJ

Most Holy Name of Jesus Parish

Happy Catechetical Sunday!

Feliz Domingo de los Catequistas, Mil Gracias a ustedes en el Senor!

in East Brunswick

offers our gratitude to

Barbara Fitzgerald and our Catechists, Aides and Volunteers who are living examples of the Gospel to our community of faith.

May you be richly blessed for all you do in service to our Lord.

V I E W M O R E C AT E C H E T I C A L S U N D AY T R I B U T E S O N PA G E 14 , 15 , 16 A N D 17

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

Celebrates our dedicated Catechists and Volunteers And Thanks them for Knowing, Loving, and Serving Our Lord in Faith Formation

The Parish of St. Bartholomew

14 CATECHETICAL SUNDAY

Celebrate

We celebrate and give thanks for all of the men, women, and teens who generously give their time and energy as catechists and aides to serve the children of St. Magdalen’s parish.

CATECHETICAL SUNDAY

May God pour His blessings upon you as you bring the abiding love of Jesus Christ to His children.

S E PT E M B E R 15 , 2 019

The Parish Community of Immaculate Conception Somerville

extends our gratitude to

God bless

KAREN BOHLER - Director of Children’s Faith Formation KARE

our catechists, aides and volunteers for sharing your faith with our children Thank you for your service

Transfiguration of the Lord Parish Highland Park/Edison

r

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Ou

&

JENNY SANTIAGO - CFF Secretary

and to all our CATECHISTS for their time, commitment and devotion to the Faith Formation of our children.

THE PARISH COMMUNITY OF

Lady of Peace NORTH BRUNSWICK

Thanks our Catechists, Aides & Volunteers

who are living examples of the Gospel to our community of faith.

As each has received a gift, use it to serve one another, as good stewards of God’s varied grace. -1 Peter 4:10 V I E W M O R E C AT E C H E T I C A L S U N D AY T R I B U T E S O N PA G E 13 , 16 A N D 17

Mass and their faith is not supported at home.”

Mascola emphasized that religious formation programs, whether a traditional weekly school model, family-centered and intergenerational catechesis, or even a summer condensed model that offers family catechetical events during the Church year, shouldn’t be just book work, or passing a test. Leading others to discipleship is more than that, she said.

With Jesus as the model, a catechist must first evangelize: proclaim the Gospel message and draw those they catechize to Christ through the Word of God, and model the life changing experience of being in a relationship with Jesus. Remaining quietly in the presence of God, listening to him and being attentive to him is powerful. Sharing – talking about Jesus and our relationship with him leads to an encounter with Christ.

Call to Evangelization

“While we honor our parish catechists on Catechetical Sunday,” Mascola stated, “This day has additional significance for all of us. It is a time for us, by virtue of our baptism, to reflect on our role as catechists and evangelizers in the Church.” To illustrate her point, she told the following story. “Once there was a pastor who began his commissioning service with inviting parish catechists to stand, then youth ministers, Children’s liturgy of the Word, sponsors, godparents, grandparents, parents, aunts, uncles, brothers, sisters until everyone in the church was standing. He said, ‘Today

Our prayers best wishes & heartful thanks ARE OFFERED TO

our Parish Catechetical Leader

Our Catechists, Aides, Office Staff

From all of us at

ST. MARY PARISH, ALPHA, NJ

— photo courtesy of Carol Mascola

The materials are available through the USCCB website.

“If each of us would take our role as an evangelizer seriously, if we focus on bringing others — our families, friends, co-workers and neighbors into an encounter with Christ in our daily lives, at work and even through our involvement with our parish, we will be missionary disciples who can bring many souls back into community with the Church and Christ,” said Mascola.

— Joanne Ward

Our Gratitude....

to our Parish Catechetical Leader,

Debbie Schurko

our religious education assistants, volunteer catechists and aides for their dedication and willingness to share their gift of faith with our youth.

St. Fran Francis of Assisi Cathedral Metuchen

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

and all who help our children and youth grow closer to the Lord.

Above, Carol Mascola, director, diocesan Office of Discipleship Formation for Children.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Mary Beth Luzzetti

is Catechetical Sunday when we celebrate all who serve in the role of the catechist, so we celebrate all of you because by your baptism you have all been called to be catechists.

Please give yourselves a round of applause.’”

Catechesis leads to evangelization, Mascola continued, and the mandate to evangelize comes from Christ himself. As Pope Francis said in his recent Post-Synodal Apostolic Exhortation, “Christus Vivit!” in addition to doctrine and morality “It is likewise important that it [catechesis] has two main goals. One is the development of the kerygma, the foundational experience of encounter with God through Christ’s death and resurrection. The other is growth in fraternal love, community life, and service… All Christian formation consists of entering more deeply into the kerygma and incarnating it ever more fully in our lives. (213-214) In his comments on Catechetical Sunday, Bishop Robert Barron, chairman of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ (USCCB) Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis, used Catechetical Sunday to address the need for all to be evangelizers. “Our resources this year are aimed on assisting the many dedicated faithful in their outreach as missionary disciples particularly to the disaffiliated. Under our theme, Stay with Us, we have produced a variety of articles, videos and podcasts focusing on the encounter, and accompaniment which builds a community that then sends forth as missionary disciples.” he wrote.

CATECHETICAL SUNDAY

They have been called living examples of the Gospel, sharers of their gift of faith, and bearers of the abiding love of Jesus Christ to his children. They are the catechists who serve in our parishes and on Sept. 15, Catechetical Sunday, they were acknowledged, thanked and commissioned in their ministry.

Supporting the Church’s emphasis on the need for evangelization, the theme of this year’s Catechetical Sunday is “Stay With Us.” “It is a powerful message. It prompts us to focus on the encounter and accompaniment that builds a community of faith focused on the sending forth of missionary disciples,” said Carol Mascola, director, diocesan Office of Discipleship Formation for Children The theme, she added, is a reminder of the Emmaus story. Our prayer, as we journey in faith, is the prayer of the two disciples journeying with Jesus: “Stay with us, Lord!”

The Lord always answers our prayers and he is always walking at our side. It is up to us to acknowledge and keep him close.

In a recent presentation to a group of catechists, Mascola, told them, “Being a catechist means being an image of Christ, leading young people to have Christ at the center of their lives, and helping them become disciples.” She added, “When people are so ablaze with the fire of God’s love that they cannot help but witness to and share their faith with others, evangelization occurs.”

A major challenge for catechists today, Mascola noted, is the fact many young people are leaving the Church. “They do not go to

15

Catechetical Sunday reminds faithful to help bring others closer to Christ

16 CATECHETICAL SUNDAY

Celebrate

CATECHETICAL SUNDAY

Thanks to all our Catechists and Catholic School Teachers for helping our parish announce the Good News to our young brothers and sisters.

St. Philip & St. James Church Phillipsburg, New Jersey

FOR SOWING THE SEEDS OF FAITH IN THE PARISH COMMUNITY OF ST. JOHN VIANNEY

Rev. Stanley Gromadzki, Rev. Marian Drozd, and the Parish Community at

Sacred Heart Church, South Amboy THANKS Shannon Liana, DRE

and all of our Catechists & Volunteers of Parish CCD/Prep and Polish CCD Programs for their gift of faith and their dedication to our children.

THANK YOU FOR HELPING US GROW

Thank You Catechists and Assistants. You teach in the footsteps of the Master Teacher. As Jesus changed the world through His teachings, you have been commissioned, through your baptism, to do the same. You are transforming the world in small ways SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

each day. You have the most important job in the world because your actions today change our tomorrow.

V I E W M O R E C AT E C H E T I C A L S U N D AY T R I B U T E S O N PA G E 13 , 14 A N D 17

Lynne Soltys

To the catechists of

St. Frances Cabrini Church

our Director of Religious Education, and to the Catechists and Aides in our Children’s Faith Formation Program.

in Piscataway

St.Helena EDISON

Thank You for your sacrifice and for all you do to introduce our young people to our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ and our great Catholic faith

CATECHETICAL SUNDAY

to

17

Thank You

The Parish Family of St. Ambrose Church and School Old Bridge, New Jersey Celebrates the many people that commit themselves to the development and support of catechetical ministry.

May God bless all those who communicate the values of the Gospel, and dedicate themselves to the faith formation of our students, young adults, and parishioners.

In thanksgiving for all you do, Fr. Jack Grimes, Pastor Fr. Martin Espinoza, Associate Pastor Deacon Tom Yondolino Mrs. Rita Naviello, Principal, St. Ambrose School Mrs. Joan Abitabile, Parish Business Manager

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

Mrs. Kathleen Abair, PCL Mrs. Terri Brophy, Adm. Asst.

Mrs. Patricia Tardo, Adm. Asst.

18

Original sin/ 'Leave, cleave' in marriage

OUR FAITH

How do I explain original sin to a fallen-away Catholic? (He won’t accept anything from the Catechism of the Catholic Church.)

He asked me, “Why are people born thousands of years after the fall held accountable for something they didn’t do?” (Arlington, Va.)

Q

Pope Francis

AUDIENCE

August 21, 2019 Dear Brothers and Sisters: Last night I returned to Rome from my Apostolic Journey to Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius. I went as a pilgrim of peace and hope, to share the message of Christ as the true foundation of fraternity, freedom and justice in our world. In Mozambique, I encouraged the authorities to work together for the common good, the young to play their part in building up their country, and bishops, priests and religious to give a generous “yes” to God. In Madagascar, I shared my hope that people there, with their traditional spirit of solidarity, will be able to contribute to a future of development, combined with respect for the environment and social justice. I also encouraged many contemplative nuns, bishops, priests, religious and young people to respond generously to God’s call. Finally, in Mauritius, a land of diverse cultures, I expressed to all my appreciation for their efforts to foster harmony between different groups. The Gospel at our final Mass reminded us how the Beatitudes —the identity card of Christ’s disciples — are the source of peace and hope. Let us pray that, from the seeds sown during this visit, God will bring forth abundant fruit for the people of Mozambique, Madagascar and Mauritius.

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Prayer for Catechists Loving God, Creator of all things,you call us to be in relationship with you and others.

Thank you for calling me to be a catechist, for the opportunity to share with others what you have given to me.

May all those with whom I share the gift of faith discover how you are present in all things.

May they come to know you, the one true God, and Jesus Christ, whom you have sent.

May the grace of the Holy Spirit guide my heart and lips, so that I may remain constant in loving and praising you.

May I be a witness to the Gospel and a minister of your truth.

May all my words and actions reflect your love.

Amen.

— Courtesy of Loyola Press

Question Corner

By Father Kenneth Doyle

A

Your friend is not the first one to misunderstand the concept of original sin. In 2018, Rodrigo Duterte, the president of the Philippines, created a furor when he called God “stupid” because of original sin — for allowing others, he said, to be stained by something in which they were not involved. The key, of course, is that we are not really “stained” by the sin of our first parents; instead we are simply deprived of what would otherwise have been ours — namely, the absence of suffering and death.

Actually, the Catechism of the Catholic Church — which unfortunately your friend chooses to reject — explains it well.

It says that “original sin is called ‘sin’ only in an analogical sense: it is a sin ‘contracted’

and not ‘committed’ — a state and not an act” (No. 404). Further, the catechism explains, “original sin does not have the character of a personal fault in any of Adam’s descendants. It is a deprivation of original holiness and justice, but human nature has not been totally corrupted. …

“Baptism, by imparting the life of Christ’s grace, erases original sin and turns a man back toward God, but the consequences for nature, weakened and inclined to evil, persist in man and summon him to spiritual battle” (No. 405). I don’t pretend that original sin is an easy doctrine to comprehend, and in fact the catechism itself acknowledges that “the transmission of original sin is a mystery that we cannot fully understand” (No. 404).

a valid reason to annul our marriage and be divorced? (Columbus, Ohio)

My husband and I have struggled since being married with the concept of “leave and cleave.”

He seeks his family’s advice for every decision we have to make. Their opinions are valued over my own, even when I am in staunch disagreement. We attended Christian counseling, which proved to be fruitless, and he refuses to talk to a priest about marriage. (He doesn’t believe that priests can advise on marital problems, never being allowed to marry themselves.) I am struggling with staying in this marriage, because he is clearly not willing to make any changes. I admit my own flaws and work to correct them. If he will not accept God as No. 1 and his wife as No. 2, is this

The concept of “leave and cleave” takes its origin from God’s statement in the creation narrative (Gn 2:24) that, in marriage, “a man leaves his father and mother and clings to his wife.” That doesn’t mean, of course, that a man or woman must abandon contact with one’s own birth family; but it does mean that the new spouse needs to be the most significant human relationship in one’s life. As for your husband’s reluctance to speak with a priest, I share some of his same discomfort; as a priest, I have often felt unqualified and referred a couple to a professional marriage counselor, usually a layperson. (I do have a preference for Catholic counselors, because I want the assurance that marriage is viewed as a permanent commitment.) As to whether your current situation might justify an annulment in the Church’s view, I cannot say without more information. Remember that annulments are not easy: For an annulment, one must be able to go back to the time of the marriage and show that, from the outset, there was some fundamental problem substantial enough to indicate that this particular marriage could never have lasted. You and your husband are better off speaking first with a trained counselor and trying to work your issues out.

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

nection because Francis learned and then demonstrated that fruitful dialogue can occur only if the parties first give each other credit for intellectual integrity and then try to understand and even appreciate each other’s point of view.

My friends seem to do neither. The microbiologist told me the other night — completely out of context as though he was trying to provoke me — that he is an “Islamophobe” which, if taken literally, means that he is afraid of Islam and, I presume, Muslims. If that’s true, it’s an odd position for a scientist who one would expect to take a logical view of human affairs. There are nearly two billion Muslims in the world and, while they espouse the same religion, they belong to widely varied cultures and have widely varied ideas and attitudes — something like the 2.4 billion Christians in the world who range from Ku Klux Klanners to Cistercian monks.

I would expect a scientist to know better than to generalize about such a large community. But I didn’t unload any of that on my old friend because I know that — particularly by way of social media — neither of us was going to make a dent in the other’s armor.

As Kathryn Jean Lopez recently wrote in “Our Sunday Visitor,” “Your one next brilliant word isn’t likely to turn Saul into Paul.” Given that reality, my choices were to risk blowing up a 59-year-old relation-

ship or accept the fact that he and I don’t think alike when it comes to Muslims, whereas we do think alike when it comes to baseball and opera. If we were to part company, digitally speaking, what would either of us have gained? If we keep talking in the areas in which we agree, there is always potential for a greater meeting of minds.

Although they seem particularly intense in the present political climate, these dynamics are nothing new. But we need to be careful about how the ability to “talk” to each other via social media — perhaps never in each other’s presence — can make us feel licensed to say anything we please, no matter how coarse or insulting.

We are called as Christians to stand up for the ideals that Jesus taught, and that’s a serious obligation — so much so that Jesus spoke of “hating” all other attachments that might distract us from faithfulness to him and the Gospel. By that hyperbole, Jesus meant that we shouldn’t compromise our Christian faith in order to please another person or satisfy some desire or whim of our own. I don’t believe he meant that we should goad each other until one or the other of us breaks the tie that had bound us.

This is, after all the same Jesus who told us to forgive our enemies and love those who hate us.

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

Q

A

Practice civility, restraint on social media I’ve been watching with regret a social-media dialogue between two fellow members of the high school class of 1960.

One of these fellows was a microbiologist, and the other was an engineer.

They never see each other, but they go at it in the digital world, butting heads over their conflicting political views.

The conversation usually deteriorates into anger and vitriol.

Mustard Seeds

By Deacon Charles Paolino I was thinking about them while was reading about St. Francis Xavier, who in the 16th century traveled to India, Japan, and other places that very few Europeans visited. Francis had one goal — to spread the Gospel to people who had never heard it, but I read that, at first, he was unable to embrace the varied cultures he encountered on his mission.

Eventually, however, he perceived the presence of God in every society. He even assimilated local characteristics by learning the languages and wearing the attire. This is not a perfect metaphor for the situation of my two classmates, but I made the con-

19

Proper use of material goods “Make friends for yourselves with dishonest wealth, so that when it fails, you will be welcomed into eternal dwellings” (Lk 16:9). Jesus’ advice highlights a theme change in his teaching in this Sunday’s Gospel. Having previously spoken of the care with which God seeks out the lost and the joy with which he celebrates their return, Jesus’ words now turns to the proper use of material possessions.

SCRIPTURE STUDY

By Msgr. John N. Fell

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE Sun 22 Mon 23 Tues 24 Wed 25 Thurs 26 Fri 27 Sat 28 Sun 29 Mon 30 Tues 1 Wed 2 Thurs 3 Fri 4 Sat 5

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 22 - SATURDAY, OCTOBER 5

Am 8:4-7 • Ps 113:1-2, 4-6, 7-8 • 1 Tm 2:1-8 • Lk 16:1-13 Ezr 1:1-6 • Ps 126:1b-2ab, 2cd-3, 4-5, 6 • Lk 8:16-18 Ezr 6:7-8, 12b, 14-20 • Ps 122:1-2, 3-4ab, 4cd-5 • Lk 8:19-21 Ezr 9:5-9 • Tb 13:2, 3-4a, 4befghn, 7-8 • Lk 9:1-6 Hg 1:1-8 • Ps 149:1b-2, 3-4, 5-6a, 9b • Lk 9:7-9 Hg 2:1-9 • Ps 43:1, 2, 3, 4 • Lk 9:18-22 Zec 2:5-9, 14-15a • Jer 31:10, 11-12ab, 13 • Lk 9:43b-45 Am 6:1a, 4-7 • Ps 146:7, 8-9, 9-10 • 1 Tm 6:11-16 • Lk 16:19-31 Zec 8:1-8 • Ps 102:16-18, 19-21, 29, 22-23 • Lk 9:46-50 Zec 8:20-23 • Ps 87:1b-3, 4-5, 6-7 • Lk 9:51-56 Neh 2:1-8 • Ps 137:1-2, 3, 4-5, 6 • Mt 18:1-5, 10 Neh 8:1-4a, 5-6, 7b-12 • Ps 19:8, 9, 10, 11 • Lk 10:1-12 Bar 1:15-22 • Ps 79:1b-2, 3-5, 8, 9 • Lk 10:13-16 Bar 4:5-12, 27-29 • Ps 69:33-35, 36-37 • Lk 10:17-24

Therese Couderc 1805 - 1885 feast – Sept. 26

Google, public domain

Born to a French farm family, Marie-Victoire Couderc joined a new religious teaching order, but was sent to manage a mountain hostel for women pilgrims at the shrine of St. John Francis Regis. It became a successful retreat house under her guidance, and the order split into a teaching ministry, the Sisters of St. Regis, and a retreat ministry, the Congregation of Our Lady of the Cenacle. Mother Therese was superior of the Cenacle sisters until 1838, when Jesuit advisers began replacing her with a succession of wealthy women. She lived out her days as an ordinary nun, suffering deafness and painful arthritis at the end. She wrote that “the surrendered soul has found paradise on earth,” and was canonized in 1970.

Saints

SCRIPTURE SEARCH

®

Gospel for September 22, 2019 Luke 16:1-13 Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle C: about serving this world or the next. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

RICH MAN I HEAR ASHAMED HOMES SIT DOWN CHILDREN ETERNAL

SQUANDERING STRONG TO BEG HUNDRED WHEAT GENERATION SERVE

PROPERTY TO DIG I KNOW OLIVE OIL EIGHTY WEALTH HATE ONE

WORLDLY PLANS I

K

N O

I

T

A

R

E

N

E

G

S

H

A

N

A

H

A

T

E

O N

E

I

E

E

I

G H

T

Y

G

I

E

T

T

L

R

A

F W T

N

R

I

R

E

D W K

V

R

R O E

R

E

D

R

O H

C

D

E

R

D

N

U

H

L

N

W C

H

P

T

N

I

H

K

I

I

A

N

A O

S

A G G C O

I

H

L

K

R

U

E

N

A

N

H M C O

P

Q Q B

K

A

S

H

A M E

D

S

S

O

L

I

V

E

O

I

L

A

S

H

T

L

A

E W H

E

A

T

K

N

R

© 2019 Tri-C-A Publications www.tri-c-a-publications.com

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

Jesus tells a story to illustrate his message.

He speaks of a manager of a large estate who is about to be dismissed for mishandling his master’s property. The manager begins to worry — how will he earn a living after having lost his job? His plan is basically to ingratiate himself with others, and so he takes the various invoices of money and goods that were owed his master and begins to deeply discount them. He hopes that by doing so the vendors he has treated so generously will return the favor when he is later in need.

Throughout the ages, people who study the Bible have fretted over this parable. They wondered whether Jesus was approving of mismanagement or even outright dishonesty in business affairs. How could Jesus recommend this deceitful manager as an example? The answer, of course, is that Jesus is not holding up the manager’s character or business acumen for our emulation. Rather, he is pointing to his ingenuity in taking care of his own needs; when motivated, the manager was both clever and effective.

Jesus’ point in this story is that Christians should pursue the coming of God’s Kingdom with such cunning and industry. Jesus’ followers must not simply await the Kingdom with placid resignation; all must use the talents, resources, and opportunities with which God has blessed them to effectively spread the Gospel message (being devoted to and imitating Jesus).

The old advice to “pray as if everything depends on God, and work as though everything depends on you” (variously attributed to St. Augustine, St. Ignatius of Loyola, and others) comes to mind here. Our abilities, interests, and, yes, material goods — used properly — can

be very effective means for building up God’s Kingdom. The words of today’s Second Reading make this point with some urgency: “it is my wish, then, in every place that men should pray, lifting up holy hands, without anger or argument” (1 Tm 2:8) — the exhortation here being to pray and to keep our hands (and, by analogy, our entire lives) holy by consecrating them for God’s purposes always.

The remainder of our Gospel this Sunday continues speaking about the proper use of material goods. In a series of three proverbs, Jesus warns his followers that those who are dishonest in small matters are likely to be dishonest in greater, that those who cannot handle other peoples’ money are often not able to manage their own, and finally, that those who squander fleeting wealth will not well handle lasting wealth either.

Again, the point is that everything we have, everything we are is intended first for God’s glory!

The first reading, taken from the Book of the Prophet Amos, describes a situation in which material wealth is seen as an end unto itself, that is, when serving God wholeheartedly is subordinated to becoming rich or powerful. Amos warns, “Hear this, you who trample upon the needy and destroy the poor of the land . . . The Lord has sworn by the pride of Jacob: Never will I forget a thing they have done!” (Am 8:4,7).

The Prophet Amos ministered in the Northern Kingdom of Israel about 750 BC. Amos was intensely concerned with a moral social order.

His prophecy often harshly critiqued Israelite society because it was replete with inequity and oppression. The rich lorded it over the poor, the mighty over the humble. Amos’ teaching was that everyone must use their gifts to serve the Lord, beginning by serving his neediest sons and daughters in their midst.

These readings present a clear choice to us.

Either we (1) become effective instruments of God’s goodness amid whatever circumstances we find ourselves, using all our energy and skill to achieve God’s purposes, or (2) we seek principally or only self-aggrandizement within this world, leading us to build up our treasure here on earth while neglecting the things of heaven. We must all make this choice, for, as Jesus teaches at the end of this reading, “No servant can serve two masters . . . you cannot serve both God and mammon” (Lk 16:13).

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

OUR FAITH

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time (C)

20 EVANGELIZATION HERE & NOW

Don't miss the next issue of The Catholic Spirit with coverage of the diocesan Walking Pilgrimage: "The Way of St. Juan Diego"

McAULEY Religious Gift Shop

at Mount St. Mary's

Rosaries • Statues • Gifts Catholic Medals • Holy Cards Greeting Cards• Books • Bibles WE ACCEPT PAYMENT BY CASH OR PERSONAL CHECKS. NO CREDIT CARDS.

(908) 754-3663 , ext. "0"

Tues., Wed. & Thurs.: 10 am – 3pm Friday: 10 am – 2 pm Saturday: 9:30 am – 12 noon

Closed Sunday, Monday & Holidays

Rt. 22 & Terrill Road, Watchung, NJ 07069

“Come follow me” (Mark 10:21)

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

If you think maybe...

Contact the

Office of Vocations:

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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

Evangelization HERE AND NOW

Parish celebrates ‘spiritual milestone’

By Cathy Stevens Correspondent SOUTH RIVER — In the early 1940s, Catholic life was flourishing in this small borough so much so that its two parishes could no longer meet the needs of the Catholic population. Responding to that situation, a group of individuals met to discuss forming a new parish. In 1944, they became the first members of the town’s third Catholic parish — Corpus Christi.

Today, the parish is thriving and vibrant with 763 registered families and 180 children enrolled in its faith formation program.

On Sept. 7, parishioners gathered at at Mass at Corpus Christi Church to celebrate its 75th anniversary.

Father Damian B. Breen, pastor, began the Mass by warmly welcoming Bishop James F. Checchio, who presided at the liturgy and gave the homily; visiting priests, ecumenical ministers from local Christian churches, and South River Mayor John M. Krenzel, noting that “this spiritual milestone is a wonderful tribute to our faith.”

The bishop presided at the Mass Corpus Christi Church, which replaced a temporary place of worship, was dedicated and gave the homily. In addition to Nov. 2, 1952 by Bishop George W. Ahr. A fire damaged the interior of the church in Father Breen, concelebrants included 1972 and extensive renovations were made, including shrine areas around its exterior.

Father Robert V. Meyers, Father Paul — Chris Donahue photo Da Silva, Father Antonio da Silva, FaTrue discipleship to Jesus, the bish- not lukewarm disciples! It took much ther Kenneth R. Kolibas, Father John J. O’Kane, Father Raymond I. Nacarino, op said, is not a matter of convenience, commitment, prayer, sacrifice, and a lot Father John Szczepanik, Msgr. William but a challenge that involves important of hard work. Today, we thank God for McCarthy, Father Joseph I. Desmond decisions in choosing the priorities of these people at this Mass.” our lives. “It will require great sacrifice He described the founders as a and Father James De Fillips.

In his homily, Bishop Checchio re- to persevere to the end with Jesus,” he group of 140 people who began gathersaid. “Many will not be ing for liturgical celebrations in an aucalled a recent news event able to endure the trials ditorium, and whose efforts eventually about a French policeman “It’s [anniverand the tests that will launched a church, rectory, convent who, following a reeventually come their and school. conversion to his Cathosary] an opporway, because they are Praising their seven decades of lic faith, willingly gave tunity for us to unprepared to make the sustained efforts as an example of comhis life to save a woman sacrifices that will be re- mitted discipleship, Bishop Checchio being held hostage in a be empowered quired of them.” encouraged the parishioners to consupermarket. The priest Jesus seeks not tinue to be “a bright light” for South who ministered to the and to embrace superficial disciples, he River: “You give good witness to a dying man said, “Only the parish added, but people who world that so needs it.” his faith can explain the are totally committed, The Mass concluded with lively foolishness of his sacrimission with are willing to accept the hymns sung alternately in English and fice, which today is the the charism of consequences of disci- Portuguese. The celebration continued at admiration of all.” pleship, and are “all in.” a dinner at Pierre’s of South Brunswick.

Such a sacrifice, love for Jesus “True discipleFor Father Breen, who was apthe bishop continued, ship is certainly worth pointed administrator in 2013 and “is thought of as an act and the holy thinking about as you installed as pastor in 2015, the anniof faithfulness by those Eucharist.” celebrate your 75th an- versary represents not merely than a who have faith, but fool—Father Damian B. niversary as a parish,” nostalgic trip down memory lane, but a ishness by those devoid he said with a smile. springboard for the future. of it.” Referring to the Breen “When we read the his“It’s an opportunity for us to be Gospel (Luke 14), he tory of your beautiful parish empowered and to embrace the parish said Jesus delivers ‘a wakeup call’ to the great crowd that fol- here, we hear exactly about these kinds mission with the charism of love for lowed him, aware that some followers of people...people who made great sac- Jesus and the holy Eucharist,” he said. were motivated not by commitment, rifices in the early years, to make this “While it’s nice to look back at parish a reality. They were certainly Continued on page 22 but merely out of interest or curiosity.

Journey of Faith

By Father John Gerard Hillier

Travel with Featured:

CHRISTMAS ON THE DANUBE

St. Helena Parish, Edison

Dec. 2-10, 2019 9 days - 19 meals $3139/dbl; lower outside cabin For info call Fr. Anthony Sirianni 732-494-3399

The Sacrament of Matrimony has taken a beating over the last several years. Priests and pastoral ministers, almost universally, have seen a significant decrease in couples coming forward to receive the Church’s witness to their sacramental nuptials. On the other extreme, people who sometimes choose the Sacrament of Matrimony, do so as a matter of custom because they want a church wedding or because they prefer the aesthetics of a particular church building. Still others choose a glamorous reception hall and by default choose the closest church to that location. For all these reasons and more, the Catechism tells us, “preparation for marriage is of prime importance” (ccc 1632).

The final four paragraphs in this section of the Catechism pertain to “Mixed marriages and disparity of cult.” The Catechism reminds us that both “mixed marriages” and “disparity of cult marriages” need the express permission of the ecclesiastical authority (i.e. the bishop or his delegate). Additionally, the non-Catholic party must always be made aware of the strict obligation that the Catholic party has to raise all children from the marriage in the Catholic faith.

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

SHADES OF IRELAND with Transfiguration of the Lord Parish, Highland Park

Oct. 28 - Nov. 6, 2019 10 days - 13 meals $2999 / dbl • $3799 /single For info call Dee Macdougall at 732-662-5870

CHRISTMAS IN LONDON with East Bruns. Senior Center

Nov. 29-Dec. 5,2019 7 days - 7 meals $1999/dbl • $2799 /single For info call Gail 732-390-6786

JOURNEY TO ANTARCTICA THE WHITE CONTINENT with Fr. Anthony Sirianni St. Helena Parish, Edison

Feb. 5-18, 2020 14 days - 34 meals $17,899/dbl For info call Fr. Anthony 732-494-3399

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

Like some of our readers, my parents were married prior to the Second Vatican Council in the 1960s. Although faithful Christians, however, my mom and dad were not permitted to exchange vows within a Nuptial Mass at my mom’s home parish, the Cathedral Church, because my dad had not yet converted to the Catholic faith. Instead, because my dad was a Methodist, my parents were married in a back chapel near the sacristy (reserved for those in “mixed marriages,” which means marriages between Catholics and Protestants, and “disparity of cult marriages” between Catholics and non-Christians). This, of course, was a compromise to what the Catechism calls “the celebration of marriage between two Catholic faithful [that] normally takes place during Holy Mass, because of the connection of all the sacraments with the Paschal mystery of Christ” (ccc 1621).

For faithful Catholics, it would make sense to be married within the celebration of Holy Mass where Christ makes himself present through the Holy Eucharist. As the Catechism puts it: “It is fitting that the spouses should seal their consent to give themselves to each other through the offering of their own lives by uniting it to the offering of Christ for his Church made present in the Eucharistic sacrifice, and by receiving the Eucharist so that, communicating in the same Body and the same Blood of Christ, they may form but one body in Christ” (ccc 1621).

All who know my parents would testify that they fulfilled everything outlined in paragraph 1621 of the Catechism with the exception of having received the Eucharist on the day they “sealed their consent” in the back of the Cathedral’s scantily-filled chapel. Part of the reason why my parents fulfilled the

obligations of married love included the means that the couple are “not impeded fact that they, as spouses, were the min- by any natural or ecclesiastical law” isters of the Sacrament of Matrimony. (ccc 1625). In short, this means that if The Catechism explains: “the spouses the man or woman has already contractas ministers of Christ’s grace mutually ed marriage (even civilly), they are not confer upon each other the sacrament of free to enter into sacramental marriage.

Matrimony by expressing their consent Additionally, if the man remains under before the Church” (ccc 1623). Unlike the obligation of the Sacrament of Holy the Latin Rite (to which we belong), the Orders, or if either the man or woman tradition of the Catholic remains under the vows of Church in the East affirms consecrated life, they are The consent that the priests are the minnot free to enter sacramenisters of the Sacrament of tal marriage. In short, “if between the Marriage and it is they who consent is lacking there is couple is no are the “witnesses to the no marriage” (ccc 1626). mutual consent given by The consent between small matter. It the spouses” (ccc 1623). the couple is no small In all cases, of course, it is must be free. The matter. It must be free. The not the couple but the Holy Catechism says it must be Spirit who seals their cov- Catechism says it “free of coercion or grave enant: “In the epiclesis of must be “free of external fear” (ccc 1628). this sacrament the spouses The consent of the man receive the Holy Spirit as coercion or grave and woman that binds the communion of love them finds its fulfillment external fear” of Christ and the Church” in what Sacred Scripture (ccc 1628). (ccc 1624). calls the two “becoming Matrimonial Consent one flesh” (Genesis 2:24; is dealt with next, and it opens with Ephesians 5:31). “If this freedom is this statement: “The parties to a mar- lacking” says the Catechism, “the marriage covenant are a baptized man and riage is invalid” (ccc 1628). It is for this woman, free to contract marriage, who reason that the Church has the authority freely express their consent” (ccc 1625). to grant an annulment; i.e., to declare Here we are introduced to the norm that “that the marriage never existed” (ccc “a baptized man and woman” ordinarily 1629). approach marriage in the Church. (In the next section, however, the Catechism deals with marriages between Catholics and non-Catholics or non-Christians).

The other important point to mention is the matter of freedom to marry.

The passage states that the couple “freely express their consent.” How does the Church establish that both the bride and groom are in fact free to marry? In the most ordinarily circumstance of marriage preparation, how would the priest or deacon (preparing the couple) guarSPOTLIGHT PILGRIMAGE: antee that the couple is free to marry?

Pregnancy, for example, is sometimes cited as a reason for marriage but pregnancy is not considered sufficient reason to enter marriage or shorten the marriage preparation process if a couple had not planned to marry. Why? Because featuring a 6-night pregnancy may create the circumstance of the couple being “under constraint” Danube River cruise (ccc 1625).

The second point the Catechism With Fr. Anthony Sirianni, pastor highlights is that the freedom to marry

FAITH ALIVE

Article 124 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 1621- 1637

21

Church teaches ‘God himself is the author of marriage’

22

Pastor 'heartened' by active role many people take to serve parish

OUR DIOCESE

Continued from page 20

the past, with gratitude for all the community has done to build up the Catholic faith, “We can also use it to harness a new springtime, and to see where the Lord is actively carrying us forward, over the next 25 years to our 100-year anniversary!”

Since its founding, he noted that Corpus Christi has blossomed in both

numbers and diversity, with devoted Portuguese and Brazilian communities that are integral to parish life.

“I’m heartened by the many people who volunteer and serve in various ministries and capacities here.

I’m grateful too, for the evangelization committee that is working with others to create a culture of discipleship,” the pastor added.

Referring to the name of the par-

ish, Corpus Christi (body of Christ), Father Breen believes his parishioners have a special role as ambassadors for Jesus in the Eucharist and are therefore called to evangelize on their love of the Eucharist. To highlight this, the pastor has asked that every parishioner dedicate a prayer on first Fridays to the diocesan consecration to Jesus through Our Lady of Guadalupe in December.

“We have to do everything in our power to teach and catechize that Jesus is truly present in the Eucharist,” he said, referring to recent Pew Research Center statistics that indicate that most U.S. Catholics no longer believe this core teaching.

Helen Casey, a longtime parishioner whose six children made all their sacraments, including marriages, at Corpus Christi, attended with her

daughter, Colleen Cholewa.

Cholewa said, “I love this church and always have,” and added that she credits Father Damian for bringing many people back to the Church through his personal warmth and diligent efforts to enhance worship, such as the addition of an Extraordinary Form Low Mass.

Iris Schmitt, whose mother, Louise Sieber, was a founding member, has belonged to the parish since the beginning. She attended the anniversary Mass with daughters Amy Lennert and Wendy Crane, along with Crane’s husband, Terrence. Lennert fondly recalled that their family lived within walking distance of the church, and that attending the church and school “gave us such a strong sense of belonging to a community.”

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Bishop James F. Checchio, center, Father Damian B. Breen, left, and other clergy pray during the consecration at Mass at Corpus Christi Church, South River. Left and below, Bishop Checchio and Father Breen, who is the pastor of Corpus Christi Parish, greet the faithful.

The parish is celebrating its 75th anniversary.

— Frank Wojciechowski photos

"Here is your promisory note. Sit down and quickly write one for 50,” the steward said.

worthy in great ones; and the person who is dishonest in very small matters is also dishonest in great ones,” Jesus said. “If, therefore, you are not trustworthy with dishonest wealth, who will trust you with true wealth?

If you are not trustworthy with what belongs to another, who will give you

what is yours?”

Jesus said that a servant cannot serve two masters.

“He will either hate one and love the other, or be devoted to one and despise the other. You cannot serve both God and mammon,” he said about earthly riches.

READ MORE ABOUT IT: LUKE 16 Q&A: 1. Why did the steward lose his job?

2. What were the debts owed to the rich man?

PUZZLE: Unscramble the letters in each word and arrange them to form a quotation from the children’s story.

caucton uryo a fo westdrapsih rarepep ulfl Puzzle Answer: account your a of stewardship prepare full Prepare a full account of your stewardship.

One day, Jesus told his followers a parable about a rich man and the steward who oversaw his estate.

The rich man found out that the steward was dishonest and had squandered his property.

“Prepare a full account of your stewardship, because you can no longer be my steward,” the rich man angrily told the steward.

“What shall I do, now that my master is taking the position of steward away from me?” the steward wondered. “I am not strong enough to dig and I am ashamed to beg.”

He quickly came up with an idea.

It was a common practice for a steward to charge his master’s debtors

more than what was owed and keep the extra for himself. So he decided to gain favor with the rich man’s debtors by charging only what they actually owed. In return, the debtors would welcome him into their homes after he lost his job.

The steward called in the rich man’s debtors one by one.

“How much do you owe my master?” he asked one debtor.

“One hundred measures of olive oil,” the man replied.

“Here is your promissory note.

Sit down and quickly write one for 50,” the steward said.

Another debtor owed the rich man 100 kors of wheat, but the steward told him to write a promissory note for 80.

When the rich man heard of this, he couldn’t help but praise the steward’s prudent actions. Although Jesus did not want his followers imitating the steward’s dishonesty, he did want them to learn a lesson in the prudent use of worldly wealth.

“The person who is trustworthy in very small matters is also trust-

OUR DIOCESE

By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service

23

Jesus tells the parable of the unjust steward

— Cns artwork

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

UCH469_OH_CatholicSpirit.indd 1

7/22/19 2:06 PM

24 OUR DIOCESE

Student gets global perspective in nation’s capital Mass scheduled Emma Barrett, a junior at Mount Saint Mary Academy, Watchung attended a summer program at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C., July 21-27, where she furthered her interest in international relations.

As part of the program, Barrett visited the Islamic Center, Congress, foreign embassies and the Organization of American States, among others. She listened to congressional hearings and explored the area’s global culture during an International Dinner Night, when she and her classmates dined at different ethnic restaurants.

Barrett also heard presentations from representatives of organizations such as the Central Intelligence Agency (CIA), the National Counterterrorism Center, and the International Organization for Migration, who addressed topics such as international diplomacy and crisis management. In addition, she participated in an international crisis simulation.

10 Wooding Avenue Edison, NJ 08817 (732) 572-0076

Robert Fox Manager NJ License No. 4371

M

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

METUCHEN

ISELIN

(732) 548-0149

(732) 283-0075

Joseph V. Costello III - Manager NJ Lic. No.3670

www.costello-runyon.com

FUNERAL DIRECTORY

Lester Memorial Home Thoughtful, Personal Dignified Service GREGORY S. LESTER, MANAGER, NJ LIC. NO. 3364 DAVID L. LESTER, DIRECTOR, NJ LIC. NO. 3483

732-521-0020

16 W. CHURCH STREET • JAMESBURG, NJ 08831

www.LesterMemorialHome.com

Thomas J. DeMarco Manager, N.J. LIC. NO. 4651 Peter S. Winther Director, N.J. LIC. NO. 4763 Jennifer L. Burry Director, N.J. LIC. NO. 5172 M. David DeMarco President, N.J. LIC. NO. 3203

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

Rev. Msgr. Donald M. Endebrock Oct. 8, 2011

JOSEPH P. DIAZ, Manager - NJ Lic. No. 3841 GARY EARL RUMPF, Director - NJ Lic. No. 3353

205 Rhode Hall Road Monroe Twp., NJ 08831 Family Owned and Operated

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

Rev. Harold L. Hirsch Oct. 7, 2005

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

1225 Green St.

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

Rev. Msgr. Michael J. Kseniak Oct. 11, 1988

Gustav J. Novak Funeral Home

Costello - Runyon Funeral Homes

M. DAVID

Rev. Louis A. Leyh Oct. 27, 1987

— photo courtesy of Mount Saint Mary Academy

Family Owned & Operated

568 Middlesex Ave. (Rt 27)

NECROLOGY

Emma Barrett attended congressional hearings and visited foreign embassies during her stay at Georgetown University, Washington, D.C.

Boylan Funeral Home 188 Easton Avenue New Bruns., NJ 08901 (732) 545-4040

Father Brian Nolan will preside at the monthly Mass of Remembrance Oct. 5 at 9 a.m. in the Mausoleum Chapel at Holy Cross Burial Park, East Brunswick.

Father Sean Winters will preside at the same time 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.

As a student in the International Relations Academy, Barrett was immersed in classroom lectures, field trips, hands-on activities and group discussions. She delved into topics such as informational technology, piracy, ethics, economics, security, foreign policy, military occupations, humanitarian crises, crisis management, international diplomacy and law, nuclear weapons, terrorism, and global issues/dilemmas.

Barrett developed an interest in international relations through her stepfather, who was a field officer and station chief in the CIA for 26 years. She also enjoys several overseas trips with her brother and father.

M

YOUR DIOCESAN CEMETERIES Ready to serve you!

Holy Cross Cemetery

Cranbury/South River Rd., Jamesburg, NJ

Featuring … Mary Sorrowful Mother Mausoleum Crematory at Holy Cross Cemetery

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

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

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

1-800-943-8400

DIOMETUCHEN.ORG/CEMETERIES

ZYLKA FUNERAL HOME

513-515 State St., Perth Amboy, NJ • Tel. 732-442-0702 Established 1905 Theodore J. Ricci, CFSP, Manager, NJ Lic. No. 4455 Member of NJ Pre-Paid Funeral Trust

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

2

3

4

5

6

7

10

9 11 12

13

14

15

16

17 19

18

20

21

22 23 25

24 26

27

28 29

30

31

32

33 34

35

ACROSS 4 Son of Jacob 9 It was thought to be the abode of unbaptized but innocent 10 Saul’s general 11 ___ Testament 12 Catholic sports figure Lombardi 13 To declare someone “Blessed” 14 He left sad when Jesus told him to sell all he owned 17 Part of the Liturgy of the Word 19 Holy day cusp 21 ___ docendi 22 Religious offshoots 23 Theology on ___ program 25 Advent foliage 26 Son of David 29 Parable of the wicked ___ 31 They were first to see the empty tomb 33 Father of Jehoshaphat 34 Jesus wore one of thorns 35 10th century pope 36 Assist at Mass

36 www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

Answers can be found on page 27

DOWN 1 St. Peter ___ 2 Prayer ender 3 “...thy will be ___...”

4 Samson used one of these to kill 1000 Philistines 5 First century writing on the doctrine and teaching of the early Church 6 Ology that is the study of the lives of the saints 7 Teaching letter from the pope 8 “Let us ___ bread together on our knees.”

15 Act of ___ 16 “Ite, ___ est” 18 Ancient law man 20 The ___ Dolorosa 23 John and James “Sons of ___” 24 Section in the Bible 27 20th century Catholic Supreme Court justice from Indiana 28 Sign of ___ 30 Convent dwellers 31 “...___ through the valley of the shadow of death” (Ps 23:4) 32 A Franciscan, for example

OUR DIOCESE

Crossword Puzzle

8

25

1

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 STILOEXCAVATING,INC. 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 SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

“Specializing in Asphalt Paving”

GUTTERS

26

AROUND THE DIOCESE

OUR DIOCESE

Prayer and Worship

Oct. 1, 7:30 p.m. — The Carmelite Nuns of the Monastery, 26 Harmony School Rd, Flemington, invites all to participate in the Solemn Pontifical Benediction and Blessing of Roses in honor of St. Therese of the Child Jesus.

Bishop James F. Checchio will be the presider.

Oct. 5, 10:30 a.m. — The World Apostolate of Fatima Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Washington, invites all to Five First Saturdays of Reparation. The speaker and main celebrant will be Father Stephen Marie Dufrene. The day will include confession, Mass, recitation of the Rosary and more. The day will conclude with Divine Mercy Chaplet at 3 p.m. For details, call (908) 689-1700 ext. 210 or visit www.bluearmy.com.

Oct. 6, 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.

Fun and Food

Sept. 27, 6:30 p.m. — St. Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington, will hold a designer bag fundraiser in the parish center. Handbags featured will include

COACH, Kate Spade, Michael Kors and others.

Admission includes cards, appetizers, desserts and beverages. Bring snacks to share with your table. Tickets are $35 in advance or $50 at the door. To purchase tickets, visit www.stmagdalen.org.

Oct. 4, 7 p.m. — St. Mary Byzantine Catholic Church, Hillsborough, is sponsoring a tricky tray. Prizes will include a flat screen TV, outdoor grill, appliances, theme baskets, designer purses, gift certificates and more.

Tickets are $15 and includes dessert and coffee. Food will be available for purchase. Doors open at 5 p.m. No outside food or alcohol is permitted.

To purchase tickets, call Betty, (908) 725-0615.

Oct. 5, 11 a.m. to 6 p.m. — St. James the Less Parish, Jamesburg, invites all to its annual Fall Festival on the church grounds. The day will feature a car show, food, games for children, vendor sales and more. For information, call Sandy, (732) 521-3012.

Oct. 19, 8 p.m. — Our Lady of Lourdes Council 6930, Knights of Columbus, Whitehouse Station, invites all to a variety dinner show, “Love Me Do” a Beatles Tribute in Community Hall.

The tribute band will recreate the mu-

sic of the Fab Four. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. The show will begin at 8 p.m.

Admission will include dinner, dessert, wine and beer. The cost is $45 per person. For details or for tickets, call Tom DiQuollo, (908) 217-4330 or Roman Hnidj, (908) 256-9760 or email, rhbidj70@gmail.com.

Special Programs

Oct. 4-6 — 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 cost and location, call (732) 904-9636 or visit www.aweekendforyourmarriage.org.

Support Programs

The Diocese of Metuchen Family Life Office sponsors Courage, an apostolate of the Catholic Church that ministers to those with same-sex attractions. The spiritual support group assists those with same-sex attractions to live chaste lives in fellowship, truth and love. For information about the ministry, meeting times and location, call the Family Life office, (732) 562-2476. All calls are confidential.

Catholic Charities of the Diocese of

Metuchen is offering Counseling and wellness Services. If you or someone you know needs counseling or is impacted by addiction, we can help. Individual and family therapy for children and adults is available. For an appointment, call (800) 655-9491.

Sept. 24, 7 to 9 p.m. — Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer, Watchung, will present a men’s group entitled “Man to Man.” The evening will feature life affirming discussion and prayer to find God in your life and how to make a difference in the world. A free-will offering will be collected. For information, call (908) 753-2091 or visit www. msmhope.org.

Oct. 14, 7 to 8 p.m. — Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish and the Lazarus Ministry, Middlesex, will offer “Coping with the Holidays” presented by Jessie Flynn, in the parish center. To register, call (732) 356-2149 and leave your name and phone number, no later than Oct. 7. For information, email reillyging@gmail.com.

Special Events

Oct. 19, 8 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. – St. Thomas the Apostle Parish, Old Bridge, will host the second annual New Jersey Marian Conference. Topics will include Our Continued on next page

TH FRIDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 @7:05

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

PM

— 1st 1,500 Kids — ation Association Presented by Somerset County Educ

Last Swing of the Season!

SAVEtember

PATRIOTS FOLDER GIVEAWAY

8

Promo Code SAVE Premium Field Box Valid only for Upper Box, Field Box and

SATURDAY, SEPTEMBER 21ST@7:05PM

FINAL 3 REGULAR SEASON GAMES!»

FIREWORKS Presented by Toyota World of Clinton

IRISH HERITAGE NIGHT!

ND SEPTEMBER 22 @1:05H BOOKS! PM

VS

TOGRAP AU The World (1st 1,500 Fans) Presented by Give The Kids

APPEARANCE

DAY PLUS HALLOWEEN

312:00 Team Autograph Session 3Kids Run The Bases Post Game Facebook “f ” Logo

SomersetPatriots.com • 908-252-0700

DOWNLOAD OUR APP

RGB / .ai

Facebook “f ” Logo

RGB / .ai

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 Ferreras (732) 529-7932. To submit a prayer request, call (732) 765-6445.

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) 243-4580 or email pontifical.mission.societies@diometuchen.org.

On December 12th Bishop Checchio inaugurated a year of preparation for the consecration of the Diocese of Metuchen to Our Lady of Guadalupe. His intention for this year is that we each open our heart wide to God’s grace so that authentic spiritual renewal can take place. In light of this you are invited to come to an evening of prayer, preaching and reflection on the message and meaning of Our Lady of Guadalupe’s apparitions on our continent in 1531. Discover how The Blessed Mother led nine million indigenous Mexican people into a life changing encounter with her Son, Jesus, and how she desires to lead you into a deep and vibrant relationship with Him as well. For a listing of participating parishes go to: www.LightingHeartsOnFire.org.

Lady of Guadalupe, living as a Catholic in today’s culture, Eucharistic Healing and more. The day will include, speakers, Mass, Divine Mercy Chaplet and Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. The cost is $35 in advance or $40 at the door. Breakfast and lunch is included. To register or for details, call Max Gutierrez, (732) 9257788 or email maxfler@yahoo.com.

Members Needed

The Father Capodanno Catholic War Veteran Post will meet at St. Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington on the first Wednesday of every month at 7 p.m. in the parish center. The veteran organization is dedicated to nourishing veterans in their love for

10/12 & 10/13 Resurrection Catholic Cemetery Open House, Piscataway, Office of Cemeteries, Sat. 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Sun. 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. Memorial Counselors will be on hand to help you with pre-planning.

Incentives will be offered. For details, visit www.diometuchen.org/cemeteries or call (800) 943-8400.

10/20 World Mission Sunday Family Celebration, Office of the Pontifical Mission Society, 10:30 a.m. Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. “Going the Extra Mile for Kids in Need of Jesus” a one-mile walk, will begin St. Francis CYO building. Mass will be celebrated at noon by Father John G. Hillier. A light reception will follow Mass. For a registration form, call (732) 243-4583.

10/27 Silver and Gold Wedding Anniversary Celebration, Diocese of Metuchen, 4 p.m., Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. Renew your marriage vows with Bishop James F. Checchio during an Evening Prayer Service. Registration is required. To register visit, www.diometuchen.org/silver-and-gold or contact your parish office by Oct. 11. Although no fee is required, in the past many Jubilarians couples have given a donation of gratitude to the Church in memory of the occasion. A donation can be made online or by calling (732) 562-1543.

November

11/2 2019 Choices Matter – A Critical Life Conference, Catholic Student Association, 8:30 a.m. to 3:30 p.m., Rutgers Student Center, 126 College Ave., New Brunswick. Mass will be celebrated at 8:30 a.m. by Bishop James F. Checchio at St. Peter’s University and Community Parish. The keynote speaker will be Leah Darrow.

General registration is $25. College and high school students are $10. Lunch is included. To register online, visit www.rutgerscatholic.org.

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

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

E B N C F Y C I L I E C A A L O M O A N K

B E R E A K Y T S O M I E N T D O N

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

HELP WANTED

HOUSEKEEPER – Housekeeper needed - $650 weekly. Working days: 4 days; Schedule: 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.

E-mail: housekeeper51@ outlook.com POSITION WANTED

CAREGIVER - Experienced care for the elderly including Dementia and Alzheimers. Good companion; responsible and reliable; will live in. References available. Call Beca: 1-908-9920511or (908) 240-6100.

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.

CLEANING SERVICES

DELUXE HOUSEKEEPING - Quality & Reliable Cleaning Service. Free Estimates.

Commercial and Residential. Call Tony or Karina: (732) 670-7437.

Please pray for vocations!

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)

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!

Now also available on line.

To place your ad call:

(732) 529-7934

PER LINE CHARGES:

• 24 characters/line (approx)

$ 3.50 per line - 1 insertion

• 5 line minimum

$ 3.25 per line - 2 insertions

• All ads must be pre-paid

$ 3.00 per line - 3 insertions

• Credit cards accepted

$ 2.50per line - 4 or more insertions • Display classifieds quote upon request

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 19, 2019

Crossword Puzzle Answers

Catholic Charities Diocese of Metuchen is seeking volunteers for its Connections Program in Middlesex County and Franklin Township.

The volunteers will provide a positive friend relationship to children ages five to 18 years old who have suffered a loss or have special needs. Volunteers will be screened, receive training and staff support. For details, call Jeanette Nadonley, (732) 738-1323.

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

RATES

10/10 Catholic Charities Solidarity Team, Harvest of Hope Dinner, 6:30 p.m., Sister Marie de Pazzi Conference Center, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, New Brunswick. Tickets are $35 per person or $300 for a table of ten. To register online, visit www.ccsolidarity.org. For information, call (609) 235-6832.

Volunteers Needed

CLASSIFIED

October

10/2 A Catholic Prayer and Support for Families Affected by Mental Health Issues, Office for Persons with Disabilities, 10 a.m. and 7 p.m., St. Patrick Parish, Belvidere. The support group will offer spiritual support and tips on how to cope with mental health issues. The program will also be held through Dec. on the first Wednesday of the month. For details, call (732) 765-6432 or email catholicswithdisabilities@gmail.com.

country, family and the Catholic faith.

You don’t have to be aHELP WarWANTED Veteran, just a Veteran to join. New members are welcome. For details, contact Al Kosiarski, (908)782-7662 Ext.159 or email, al@fdsnj.com.

OUR DIOCESE

September

Continued from previous page

27

DIOCESAN EVENTS

AROUND THE DIOCESE

28

Retreat attendees deepen faith through Scripture, sacraments, fellowship

OUR DIOCESE

Continued from page 8

“[This] reminded me that He is the one who works in my life. I just need to be open and give Him permission.”

We cannot do this without grace, but we also need to ask the Lord for the graces.

Between each talk, there were small group discussions, which was

most of the participants’ favorite part of the day.

They also had 15 to 20 minutes to pray and sit with the Lord between each talk.

The retreat also included adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, the sacrament of reconciliation and Mass celebrated by Msgr. Joseph G. Celano,

pastor, St. Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish, New Brunswick.

“We rejoiced at the end of the day with a patio cookout,” Glynn said.

“This day gave young adults an opportunity to encounter the living God through the Gospel, community, and the sacraments.

“Many young adults connected with others and joined our numerous young adult ministries throughout our diocese.”

For more information on young adult communities in the diocese, visit diometuchen.org/young-adultgroups-2 — John Glynn

Left, participants at the young adult retreat held by the diocesan Office of Youth andJersey YoungChinese Adult MInistry at The Catholic Center at Rutgers, New New Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate Brunswick, chat between events.

Above, participants pray during Mass.

New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate Right, John Glynn, director of the office, gives one of his three presentations. 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會

New中區 Jersey Catholic Apostolate New中區 Jersey Catholic Apostolate 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 OurChinese Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, OurChinese Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, — John 中區 Our Lady of Mt新澤西華人天主教會 Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave,Glynn and Nevin Mathew 中區photos Our Lady of新澤西華人天主教會 Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 nd Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass nd Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2 Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2 中區 Our Lady ofLady Mt2Virgin 650 Harris Ave, 中區 Our Lady Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 ndof ndMt 中區 Our Mt Church Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 中區 OurofLady of Virgin3:30pm Church 650 Ave, Harris Ave, Middlesex NJ 08846 Every Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2 Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Sunday Chinese Mass 中區 Our Lady ofSt. MtEvery Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 中區 OurNJ Lady ofEvery Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 北區 Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, nd nd Middlesex NJ 08846 2ndEvery Middlesex 08846 2ndEvery Sunday 3:30pm Chinese MassAve, Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Middlesex NJ 08846 2 Middlesex NJ 08846 2 Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, nd Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Middlesex NJSt. 08846 Every 207040 Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2nd Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate Catholic Apostolate Maplewood NJKim Every Sunday 2pmParker Chinese MassNew Jersey Chinese Maplewood NJKim 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 北區 Andrew Church 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. Andrew 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 北區 St.Every Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2ndSunday Middlesex NJ 08846 2ndChurch Sunday 3:30pm Chinese MassAve, Sunday 3:30pm Chinese MassAve, Maplewood NJ 07040 Every 2pm Chinese Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Maplewood 07040 Every Sunday 2pmAve, Chinese Mass Maplewood 07040 Every Sunday 2pmAve, Chinese Mass 北區 St. AndrewNJ Kim Church 280 Parker 北區 St. AndrewNJ Kim Church 280 Parker 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates onChinese facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates onChinese facebook Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Mass Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates onChinese facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates onChinese facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See on facebook中區 Our Lady of Mt Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates onMass facebook Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pmupdates Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Complete Home Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer 廣東話祈禱會 nd ndMeeting 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on3:30pm facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook 2 Meeting 2 Prayer Saturday at Saturday aton 3:30pm Cantonese 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 nd Prayer Prayer nd Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates facebook Renovation Specalist nd nd 2 Prayer 2 ndPrayer Saturday at 3:30pm Saturday at 3:30pm Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2 Cantonese Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2 Sunday Sunday 3:30pm Mass 3:30pm Chinese Mass nd Chinese Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese 廣東話祈禱會 ndMeeting Call 8626861170 for Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 for Ang7371@gmail.com 2Prayer 2Prayer Saturday atrides 3:30pm Saturday atrides 3:30pm 2nd 2Parker Saturday at 3:30pm Saturday at 3:30pm Fine Trimwork Cantonese Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Over 20Interior years experience nd Parker nd280 北區 St. Andrew Kim 280 Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church Ave, CallChurch 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com 2 2 Saturday at 3:30pm Saturday at 3:30pm nd nd & All Room Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com 2 2 Saturday at 3:30pm Saturday at 3:30pm Call2pm 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 forBathrooms rides • Remodeling Kitchens Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday Chinese Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese MassAng7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 forfor rides Call 8626861170 8626861170for forBasement ridesAng7371@gmail.com Ang7371@gmail.com Refinishing • Laundry Rooms ridesAng7371@gmail.com Ang7371@gmail.com Call rides Njcca.catholicworld.infoCall See 8626861170 updates on facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Crown Moldings/Trim/Co�fer Ceilings Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Built-ins • Fireplace Surrounds 2nd Saturday at 3:30pm 2nd Saturday at 3:30pm Design - Estimate - Installation Knights of Columbus Member Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com

Marketplace The Catholic Spirit Business card directory

New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate NewChinese Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate Faith & Fun Travel 新澤西華人天主教會 New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate D F New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate U N Cruises, Tours, Pilgrimage NT A of Mt Virgin 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 中區 Our Lady Church 650 Harris Ave, Groups 新澤西華人天主教會

Licensed • Insured • References

(732) 968-3066 •

NJ HIC#13VH06189800

Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate NewNew Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate 新澤西華人天主教會 New中區 Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Catholic Apostolate 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 OurChinese Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave,

F

UR

新澤西華人天主教會 Our Lady of Mt. Virgin Church O ITH Middlesex NJLady 08846 2nd Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass 新澤西華人天主教會 Middlesex NJLady 08846 Every 2nd Sunday 3:30pm 新澤西華人天主教會 Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 中區中區 OurOur Lady of AMt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會 Deacon Tim Kennedy 中區 Our Our Lady Mt Virgin 650 Harris Ave, 中區 Lady Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, Mass 650 Harris Ave., NJ 08846 新澤西華人天主教會 中區 Our ofEvery Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 中區 Ourof ofMiddlesex, Mt Church Virgin Church 650Chinese Harris Ave, nd nd 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, nd nd 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, nd nd Middlesex NJ 08846 2Sunday Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Mass Travel Advisor Middlesex NJ 08846 2Virgin Chinese 中區 Our Lady ofEvery Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, Middlesex NJ 223:30 Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Middlesex NJEvery 08846 Every 23:30pm Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Every 208846 Sunday, PM Chinese Mass Middlesex NJ Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 中區 Our Lady of Mt Church 650 HarrisMass Ave, Middlesex NJEvery 08846 Every 2nd Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate Maplewood NJKim Every Sunday 2pm Chinese MassNew nd nd Catholic Apostolate Maplewood NJKim 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 450 New Brunswick Ave. Jersey Chinese nd Sunday 北區 Andrew Church 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. St. Andrew 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, Middlesex NJSt. 08846 Every 207040 3:30pm Chinese Mass 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, 北區 Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 3:30pm Chinese Mass Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2Sunday Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, Holy Cross Church Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 22ndChurch Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebookMass Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Suite 454 Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Maplewood Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, 16 Church Square at Harrison Ave., Harrison, NJ 07029 Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會 北區 16 St. Church Andrew Square Kim Church 280 Parker at Harrison Ave.Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會 Your Local New Jersey Cruise Specialists Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Fords, NJ 08863 Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Every 1st, 3rd, 4th & 5th Sunday, 2 PM Chinese Mass Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Harrison, NJ 07029 - EveryAve, 1st, 3rd, 4th 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, at 3:30pm nd Harris 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 2nd Saturday 2 Saturday at 3:30pm Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 See updates ononfacebook Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info Seeupdates updates on facebook Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Njcca.catholicworld.info See on facebook nd Njcca.catholicworld.info nd &Sunday 5th Sunday, 2 Chinese PM Chinese Mass NJ 08846 Every 2Cantonese Sunday 3:30pm Mass Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2 3:30pm Mass 732-423-7013 (732) 248-BEST (2378) Middlesex nd Chinese 330 Milltown Road Suite W11 nd nd nd nd Call2 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com 2Saturday Saturday at 3:30pm nd Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com 2 Saturday at 3:30pm 2 Saturday at 3:30pm Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 2 Saturday at 3:30pm at 3:30pm Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 2 280 Saturday at Ave, 3:30pm Njcca.catholicworld.info 北區 AndrewNJ Kim Church 280nd Parker Ave, (800) 576-BEST (2378) 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church Parker East St. Brunswick, 08816 dcntim@faithandfuntours.com “Come and See!” - John 1:39 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com 28626861170 Saturday at 2nd Saturday at3:30pm 3:30pm CallEvery 8626861170 for Call2pm for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Saturday at 3:30pm 22ndndupdates Saturday atAng7371@gmail.com 3:30pm Call 8626861170 for rides CallCall 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday Chinese Mass Call 8626861170 for rides rides Ang7371@gmail.com Fax (732) 248-9010 www.bestcruises.com See on Facebook Maplewood NJ 07040 Sunday 2pm Chinese MassAng7371@gmail.com www.faithandfuntours.com Call 686-1170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 rides Call 8626861170 for ridesAng7371@gmail.com Ang7371@gmail.com Call(862) 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on for facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Cantonese Prayer Meeting Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 nd 2nd Saturday at 3:30pm 2nd Saturday at23:30pm Saturday at 3:30 PM Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com (862) 686-1170 for rides Call 8626861170 for rides Call Ang7371@gmail.com Ang7371@gmail.com

SEPTEMBER 19, 2019 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

S

CONCORD Cleaning LLC Gerard J. Carino, PRESIDENT

New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate NewChinese Jersey Chinese Apostolate 新澤西華人天主教會 New Jersey CatholicCatholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate 中區新澤西華人天主教會 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會

New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate David Laggini New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate 新澤西華人天主教會 Senior Specialist for allApostolate Real Estate Needs New Jersey Chinese Catholic New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate New中區 Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate 908-552-1694 新澤西華人天主教會 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會

新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 remaxdave@yahoo.com Middlesex NJLady 08846 2nd Sunday Middlesex NJLady 08846 2nd Sunday 中區 Our Lady Mt Virgin 6503:30pm Harris Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會 中區 Our Lady Mt Virgin 6503:30pm Harris Ave, 中區 Ourof ofEvery Mt Church Virgin Church 650Chinese Harris Mass Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會 中區 Ourof ofEvery Mt Church Virgin Church 650Chinese Harris Mass Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會 新澤西華人天主教會 Parishioner OLOL, Whitehouse StationAve, & Ave, 中區Middlesex Our Lady of Mt Virgin 650 Harris Ave, ndChurch 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris nd Sunday 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker nd NJ 08846 Every 2 Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass nd Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2 3:30pm Chinese Mass Middlesex NJMt 08846 Every 2 Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass 中區 Our Lady of Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2 Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, 4th Virgin Degree Member of the650 Knights of Columbus 中區 OurMaplewood Lady ofEvery Mt Church Harris Ave, nd Sunday Middlesex NJSt. 08846 Every 207040 3:30pm Chinese Mass Ave, New Jersey Chinese Catholic Apostolate Maplewood NJKim Every Sunday 2pmParker Chinese Middlesex NJ 08846 2nd Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Catholic Apostolate NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 北區 Andrew Church 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Kim 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Middlesex NJ 08846 Every Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass MassNew Jersey Chinese 北區 St.Every Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, nd2nd Middlesex NJ 08846 22ndChurch 3:30pm Chinese Mass ndSunday Middlesex NJAndrew 08846 Every 2Church Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Middlesex NJ 08846 Every Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook 北區 St. Kim 280 Parker Ave, Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, Maplewood NJ 07040NJ Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Maplewood 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 新澤西華人天主教會 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, 新澤西華人天主教會 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, 北區 St. Andrew Church 280 Parker Ave, Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Maplewood NJ NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates onChinese facebook Maplewood NJ 07040 Kim Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates onChinese facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Maplewood 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Mass Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Mass nd Sunday 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, Maplewood NJ 07040 Every 2pm Chinese Mass nd 中區 Our Lady of Mt Virgin Church 650 Harris Ave, Maplewood NJ 07040 2 Every Sunday Chinese 2 See Saturday at 3:30pm Njcca.catholicworld.info updates onon facebook Saturday at2pm 3:30pm Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates onfacebook facebookMass Cantonese Prayer Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates facebook Cantonese Meeting Njcca.catholicworld.info See on Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2ndCantonese Sunday 3:30pm Mass Njcca.catholicworld.info Seeupdates updates on廣東話祈禱會 facebook Middlesex NJ 08846 Every 2nd Sunday 3:30pm Chinese Mass nd Chinese ndPrayer nd for nd Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Call 8626861170 rides Ang7371@gmail.com 2 Saturday at 3:30pm Cantonese Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com 2 Saturday at 3:30pm 2Meeting Saturday at 3:30pm Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 2Parker Saturday at 3:30pm Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Parker Ave, Cantonese 廣東話祈禱會 Cantonese Prayer Meeting 廣東話祈禱會 北區 St. Andrew Kim Church 280 Ave, nd Prayer nd nd 2 nd atfor 3:30pm Saturday at 3:30pm Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com 2Saturday Saturday 3:30pm CallEvery 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call rides Ang7371@gmail.com 222ndndSaturday at 3:30pm Call 8626861170 for Maplewood NJ 07040 Every Sunday 2pm Chinese Mass 28626861170 Saturday atat3:30pm Maplewood NJ 07040 Sunday 2pm Chinese MassAng7371@gmail.com Saturday atrides 3:30pm Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 for ridesAng7371@gmail.com Ang7371@gmail.com Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on for facebook Njcca.catholicworld.info See updates on facebook Call 8626861170 rides Call 8626861170 for rides Ang7371@gmail.com

P.O. Box 953, Old Bridge, NJ 08857

908 . 246 . 9343

JOIN THIS DIRECTORY FOR AS LITTLE AS $30 PER MONTH. Call Nan for details at 732.765.6444