September 17, 2020 by The Catholic Spirit

Back to School section features stories on new administrators, curriculum, technology, 5-13

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SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 • VOL. 25 NO. 10 • $2.00

THE OFFICIAL NEWSPAPER OF THE DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

I N TO TH E

Vineyard

Bishop James F. Checchio, center, poses with the priests he ordained at a Mass and Rite of Ordination at the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Asbury, Aug. 22. From left: Father Gilbert Zachariah Starcher, Father David Edward Keyes, Father Thomas William Lanza, Oratorian Father John Fredy Triana-Beltran and Father Gustavo Andres Rodriguez Perez. Stories and more photos on pages 18-26. — Mike Ehrmann photo

INSIDE Perspectives Our Faith

Consecrated Life

4 28-29

Diocesan Events

Classifieds

Women from diocese profess vows for communities. . .16-17 This issue was mailed on September 15 Your next issue will be October 15

Catholic schools in diocese are communities of love, faith

UP FRONT

Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

Bishop James Checchio

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Our strange summer is about to come to a close and we see our days becoming shorter! The long Labor Day weekend usually provides us with some extra rest, but for many in our diocese, it was anything but restful this year. Our Catholic schools and parish catechists have been working extra hard to reopen our schools and religious education programs. During the summer months, each school formed a local task force comprised of educators, health care personnel and parents to assist in creating a comprehensive Reopening Plan that would meet the Center for Disease Control and the New Jersey State requirements as well as the needs of each individual school. The completed plans were posted on the school website and all the plans can be found on our diocesan website as well. Much time this summer was spent beginning to implement those plans, preparing for the students return. Since the planning got underway, I have been so impressed with our Diocesan Catholic Schools ofﬁce led so capably by Ellen Ayoub. She and her staff worked with our principals, pastors, teachers and many of our parents and medical professionals who have worked tirelessly to prepare to open our schools safely after six long months. So, having implemented the guidelines for their safe reopening, I am very pleased we have been able to welcome our students back. All our schools are also offering the remote option for families who still prefer this alternate route. For these students, classes will be either live-streamed, in Google Classroom or Zoom sessions, making sure that students feel that they are a part of the school community. In

addition to the work that was done to what comes our way in life. Since we do prepare each school for everyone’s re- not know what the new school year will turn, our dedicated and loving teachers bring, we have had to plan carefully to be engaged in professional development to sure that the schools are able to meet any further enhance their technology skills in challenges they may face. We are grateorder to meet the needs of all of our stu- ful for your good support and prayers! This year, we welcomed many new dents. In March, when our schools closed on short notice, our teachers did an ex- families all across our four counties to our schools, and the traordinary job comincrease in enrollment pleting the school year. During the summer was welcome news. This year they will do even better being so months, each school Although everyone was masked, practicmuch more prepared to formed a local task ing social distance teach our students durand increased hygiene ing this pandemic. force comprised of procedures along with There have been many other new proceeducators, health care some roadblocks to dures as school began, our reopening, primarpersonnel and it did not diminish the ily, the loss of many joy everyone felt in bus routes across the parents to assist in being together again. diocese. Many of our creating a compre- Thanks be to God families have had our schools truly to find new ways to hensive Reopening that are communities of get their children to school, since the local Plan that would meet love and faith where Catholic values build school districts or bus the Center for Disease up our students to be companies have told us that they are unable to Control and the New leaders in our Church, families, and society support the nonpublic Jersey State require- at large. Where would schools. This is a very be without our visible sign of the need ments as well as the we Catholic schools? for our Catholic comLikewise, our needs of each munity to advocate for seminarians have all our rights when we are individual school. returned to their semiencouraged to do so. I naries now, too. We hope you will respond currently are sending to the Action Alerts that will be sent to you throughout the year from many min- our seminarians to Immaculate Conception Seminary and St. Andrews College istries in our Diocese. The pandemic has certainly taught Seminary at Seton Hall University, South us to be flexible and reminded us of the Orange, as well as at the Pontifical North importance of science, but also to put our American College in Rome. We are trust in our Loving God, who is the only blessed with good seminarians giving One who can truly guide us through all themselves fully to their human, intellecthis, anchoring our lives to hope in Him. tual, pastoral and spiritual formation so Many turns and curves have come to us that they are prepared to serve our diocese over the months as we have learned more as your future priests. We had nine new about the coronavirus. God, however, is seminarians accepted this year, which is really the only aspect of life that never truly a blessing from God. Ten years ago, changes, and we know we can depend we had eight seminarians in our diocese, upon Him to always be with us, no matter but now have 25 men preparing to be priests. which is very exciting. Educating our seminarians is ex-

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

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pensive and even takes a toll on our diocesan budget, but it is a challenge we are grateful to embrace. If you would like to sponsor one of the seminarians please let us know! We would be grateful for the relief on our diocesan budget as we face so many challenges this year with the pandemic and have had to readjust our diocesan budget to live within our means. Our good candidates for the permanent diaconate are likewise beginning their classes, remotely, as this new year begins. And I had the privilege just this month to receive the vows of a new sister for our diocesan religious community, the Sisters of Jesus our Hope. This is truly good news and a young woman from St. Augustine of Canterbury in Kendall Park just professed her vows as a Sisters of Christian Charity. I know we can count on your prayers for all of these men and women. God still calls, but it is up to us to help our young listen to Him! Yes, summer is coming to a close and much is happening within our blessed diocese, thanks to all of you and your good prayers and actions! Please keep it up! I count on your prayers for me too, as we face so many challenges in our day. We won’t know why until we meet Him, but we do know that God chooses to need us now, to make brighter days ahead for us all, and those to come after us. We need His love, wisdom, and courage to guide us in these days! He is asking us to build up His Kingdom now in our midst, so that the world will be a better reﬂection of Him who made it all! I am so grateful that I am doing this with all of you. Know of my love and daily prayers. I miss seeing you as often as we did in the past and am anxious to see you all again sometime soon. God bless and keep you!

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

Bishop’s Appointments Bishop James F. Checchio has recently announced the following appointments. Appointments are effective Sept. 1. Rev. Robert Gorman, parochial vicar of Our Lady of Peace Parish, Fords, to parochial vicar of St. John Vianney Parish, Colonia, while remaining as prison chaplain Rev. David Keyes, has been appointed parochial vicar of St. Ambrose Parish, Old Bridge Rev. Thomas Lanza, has been appointed parochial vicar of Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bernardsville. Rev. Lanza will also teach at Immaculate High School, Somerville Rev. Gustavo Rodriguez Perez, has been appointed parochial vicar of St. Joseph Parish, North Plainfield Rev. Gilbert Starcher, has been appointed parochial vicar of St. Philip and St. James Parish, Phillipsburg Rev. John Fredy Triana Beltran, CO, has been appointed vice rector of the Blessed Sacrament Shrine, Raritan Rev. Joseph Desmond, retired status

CORRECTION

In the Aug. 20 edition of “The Catholic Spirit,” the photo credit on page 1 should have said John Batkowski

of the

SPECIAL FEATURE

Where in the diocese can it be found?

Image Week

FAITH FORMATION

Pastoral year will be unique from parish to parish

By Carol Mascola

Carol Mascola is director, diocesan Office of Discipleship for Children.

Linda Bellone, parishioner at St. Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington 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 17, 2020

The first reminds us that our response as catechists will be unique on our road back to Jerusalem as we proclaim the Good News and accompany those within our communities along their road to encounter the Risen Lord. The second calls us to reflect on why we are a Eucharistic people, especially when we feel far away from the Lord and others. The offering of our lives in service to one another unites us in our daily sacrifices and transforms us into living witnesses. Through this pandemic, it has become clear that we are not meant to live in isolation. God reminds us of something that we have always known to be true: it is He and He alone who works through the chaos of COVID-19. It is in times of hardship that we see God’s glory on full display. God is working all things for His glory and for the good of those who love Him. Be assured of my thoughts, prayers and support as the new catechetical year begins. For more information about the office, visit the website https://diometuchen.org/ discipleship-formation-for-children

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

We celebrate Catechetical Sunday on Sept. 20, the Twenty-Fifth Sunday in Ordinary Time. Each year, those designated to serve as catechists are called forth and commissioned for their ministry. In his encyclical letter, “Deus Caritas Est (God is Love),” Pope Emeritus Benedict XVI teaches us that the “Church’s deepest nature is expressed in her threefold responsibility: of proclaiming the Word of God (kerygma-martyria), celebrating the sacraments (leitourgia), and exercising ministry of charity (diakonia)” (25). This year, Church leaders, catechists and parents must ﬁnd new ways of passing on the faith. COVID-19 has ﬂipped our world, but God is still at work even amid the chaos. At the beginning of the pandemic, parish religious formation programs used everything at their disposal to continue the work of ministry – websites, Facebook pages, e-mails, and phone calls. For the fall, we plan to use what we have learned to communicate our plans for reopening. Because of the many restrictions, we know that things will look different. The faith formation process for adults, teens, and children during the 2020-2021 pastoral year will be unique from parish to parish. Parish staff will stretch their creativity and collaboration. Models will look different since many parishes have chosen to keep religious formation classes 100 percent virtual while some are preparing to resume in-person sessions, and others will be using hybrid virtual and in-person models. Those opting for in-person groups know well to follow CDC guidelines taking every precaution to keep everyone safe

by wearing masks, washing and sanitizing hands, disinfecting, cleaning spaces, and adhering to social distancing rules. We know that moving forward during the pandemic requires work. Thinking outside of the box with planning may require delaying the start of religious formation until late in the school year, bringing sessions into the spring and summer months when, God willing, warmer weather may enable outdoor classes. Our goal is to use this time of extraordinary circumstances to be ﬂexible, compassionate, and creative. At the same time, we recognize that this is a blessed opportunity to invest in the Domestic Church. The New Directory for Catechesis says, “Thanks to the family, the Church becomes a family of families and is enriched with the life of these domestic churches” (GDC226). We are collaborating with families in a new way by equipping them with tools to lead the faith. Discovering ways of using technology can invite families to participate in faith formation sessions and much more. We will continue to reach out to families with new zeal and methodology surpassing the traditional approach. Everyone has been working tirelessly to prepare for the start-up. The faithful’s prior inability to receive the Eucharist makes the theme of this year’s Catechetical Sunday most meaningful. The theme, “I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you” is taken from St. Paul’s ﬁrst letter to the Corinthians and focuses on the essential work of catechesis: an invitation to hear and share the Word as witnesses of the true and living God. Our images this year are of “The Supper at Emmaus” and a “Eucharist Image.”

Last issue's image...

The image, which was featured on page 3 of the August issue of The Catholic Spirit, can be found at St. Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington.

The winner is...

4 PERSPECTIVES

Victims of 9/11 remembered despite COVID-19 fears Body & Soul By Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD 9/11 Memorial & Museum, which coordinates the ceremonies held at the site of the former World Trade Center, announced that this year there would be no “Roll Call of Names” or “Tribute in Light” that were an integral part of the yearly remembrance held on Patriot Day. Survivors of those who died at the Twin Towers, as well as first responders and elected officials were outraged. The reason the 9/11 Memorial & Museum wanted to delete these two customs was for fear that the large crowds drawn by both the Roll Call and the Tribute in Light would make it impossible to practice social distancing and thereby spread more cases of the coronavirus. After numerous protests by the

surviving families, first responders and elected officials, the leadership of the 9/11 Memorial & Museum eventually had a change of heart. This year’s events at Ground Zero included a recording of the reading of victims’ names instead of the in-person readings by victims’ families. “Why were these customs so important to people?” Because we are not just spirits but embodied spirits. We are not just bodies, not just souls but a composite of both principles of being. The material principle of our being demands tangible signs and symbols, including language, to communicate with others, to express our feelings to others. The Roll Call of Names and Tribute in Light were two such tangible signs and symbols. As each name of a loved one was pronounced by a member of that person’s family, albeit was recorded from a previous year, the microphone made this name audible to everyone assembled and those who were live-steaming or watching the memorial watching on television. Immediately after pronouncing the name

of a loved one who died at Ground Zero, a bell was rung. Once more, the ringing of the bell conjured thoughts of church bells that summon people to attention — be this the call to worship, the call to pause as in the custom of the Angelus — the bell was heard and evoked a response which, in the case of the Roll Call of Names, was a prayer, a thought, a wish. This bell gave flesh to the memory of each person lost on September 11, 2001. The Tribute in Light became an important symbol of Patriot Day because the two identical beams of light resembled the Twin Towers and lit up the sky. Just as the bell in the Roll Call of Names appeals to our sense of hearing, so the Towers of Light touched our hearts through the sense of sight. In our observance of Patriot Day, namely, the Roll Call of Names and Tribute in Light were again integral parts of the whole that we call “remembrance.” We gave our word 19 years ago that we would never forget what happened to the United States at the site of the World

Trade Center, at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pennsylvania. May we always be people of our word and abide by this promise to remember. Through the grace of our prayer, be it liturgical or personal, may the aforementioned survivors who cling to the sound of the bell as it tolls during the Roll Call of Names and who pine to see the double beams of light from the Tribute in Light always receive solace from these two customs. May they always feel loved and muster the courage to trust that, while their loved ones may be gone, they will never be forgotten. More importantly, may we never cease to remember that Patriot Day is not the story of terrorism’s triumph. It is not just the story of countless heroes. It is the day when, through the clouds of dust, debris and destruction, the voice of God was heard by those who left this world in New York, at the Pentagon and in Shanksville, Pa., September 11, 2001. On that day, just one word was uttered by the Lord; yet it continues to echo even today: “Arise!” Father Comandini is managing editor of “The Catholic Spirit.”

has compelled us to reflect on the most essential things in our lives. We have been forced to realize our limitations, inadequacies and powerlessness over the forces of nature. We are reminded of our dependence on God for life. A recent study from Pew Research showed that 15 percent of individuals who rarely or never pray say they have turned to prayer to cope with this crisis. Many are finding that in the midst of fear and uncertainty, we can find our strength in God. The pandemic has also highlighted the significance of our human relationships. In “Laudato Si,” Pope Francis speaks extensively about what he has termed a “throw-away culture,” a societal mentality that views everything as disposable, replaceable or temporary, including relationships (no. 21). The Catholic Church has long preached the dignity of all people regardless of their achievements or perceived usefulness. With the shelter-in-place, we have all experienced being separated from loved ones, colleagues and community members for many months. Social isolation has now become a major mental and physical health risk. Being unable to visit an elderly loved one in a nursing home or to attend the funeral of a close friend

has left so many of us grappling with “truncated grief.” This time of separation has served to remind us that love, support and human contact are key components of fulﬁlling life. Depending on our social location, our experience during these days will be different, exposing deep divisions and inequities in our societies. Some are able to work at home, while others risk their health as “essential workers” either to save lives or simply to support their families and to survive. Across the globe, some have access to clean air and clean water, quality healthcare and education, to decent housing and a living wage, while many who are poor, often people of color, have underlying health conditions due to poverty or discrimination. This crisis has taught us that global challenges have no borders and society is only as safe as its most vulnerable people. Again, we are reminded of our common humanity, what Pope Francis calls in “Laudato Si” “integral ecology.” We are interrelated, interconnected, and interdependent. It is only when we get our relationships with God and with others right, that we can begin to restore our relationship with nature and our environment. Fortunately, during these days, when so many have stepped back from the normal rhythm of life, we have had more time to appreciate nature and the world around us. “Laudato Si” reminds us that nature is a constant source of awe and wonder. For many, the outdoors has become an area of refuge for those otherwise sheltered in place. Families are walking and bike-riding together and backyards, neighborhood parks and trails

have offered respite from the monotony of the indoors. We can use this time to strengthen our feeling of gratitude for the gifts of creation. One might ask: With so many victims of the virus, with the collapse of the economy and with the slow destruction of our Common Home, with our daily patterns disrupted and our futures uncertain – how can we have hope? In “Laudato Si,” Pope Francis encourages us, “God, who calls us to generous commitment and to give him our all, offers us the light and the strength needed to continue on our way. In the heart of this world, the Lord of life, who loves us so much, is always present. He does not abandon us, he does not leave us alone, for he has united himself definitively to our earth, and his love constantly impels us to find new ways forward. Praise be to him!” (no. 245). In this moment, it is important for us to anchor our hearts in the hope that we have in Jesus Christ. Let us continue to focus on our relationships with God and neighbor and let us pray for a better tomorrow. Finally, as we dig deeper into “Laudato Si,” to better care for our Common Home, let us take up this challenge Pope Francis presents to us: “As never before in history, common destiny beckons us to seek a new beginning … Let ours be a time remembered for the awakening of a new reverence for life, the firm resolve to achieve sustainability, the quickening of the struggle for justice and peace, and the joyful celebration of life” (no. 207). Ruggiero is secretary, diocesan Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life

Reﬂections on anniversary of pope’s encyclical This year we celebrate the ﬁfth anniversary of Pope Francis’ encyclical, “Laudato Si: On Care of Our Common Home,” in which our Holy Father calls us to join with others to address environmental challenges that face our planet and the people who live in it.

Thoughts on Life

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

By Jennifer Ruggiero At this time, amid the coronavirus pandemic, a global crisis that has shaken our world, perhaps “Laudato Si” takes on a new meaning, prompting us to reawaken our need to heal our relationships with God, each other and all creation. How providential it was that the number of deaths from the coronavirus hit its highest point across the globe during Holy Week, a time when we are supposed to reﬂect on the life, death and resurrection of Christ as well as our own lives and our relationship to God. In normal times we are often consumed by ourselves and our own achievements, but the pandemic

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 local law enforcement, the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency at 1-877-NJ ABUSE (652-2873) or 1-800-835-5510 (TTY/TDD for the deaf), and also the Diocesan Response Officer at (908) 930-4558 (24 hours/7 days a week). For more information on how to report abuse, visit our diocesan website: https://diometuchen.org/healing

5 BACK TO SCHOOL

lic Spirit A Special Section of The Catho September 17, 2020

Above and below, students at Immaculata High School, Somerville, and their parents gather outside the parochial instution and on Mountain Avenue for a clap-in to welcome back their teachers and thank them for their service the day before classes began Sept. 2. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; John Batkowski photos

From left, Maria Saumell, receptionist; Joe Gidaro, vice principal; and Sister Maria Derecola, second grade teacher, pose at the office at St. Matthias School, Somerset, in late August. The parochial school was preparing to open its doors for in-person learning for Pre-K3 through grade 8. Families also have the option of virtual learning, since classes will be live-streamed for any student who is unable to attend school. Safety protocols included masks, social-distancing, cohorts formed to minimize exposure to large groups, daily cleaning of school using electrostatic cleaners, disinfecting of all touch surfaces several times per day, hand washing scheduled throughout the day with stations available throughout school, and temperature checks at entry. COVID-19 testing had been available to all students in collaboration with the local government. This year, the school is offering one-to-one Chromebooks for children in kindergarten to the eighth grade and one-to-one headsets. And, for the first time, in partnership with Rosetta Stone, the school is offering numerous language options to better prepare students to become future leaders. The Home School Association made the new devices and programs possible. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; photo courtesy of St. Matthias School

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

Preparing to Open

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

BACK TO SCHOOL

BACK TO SCHOOL “Today’s Catholic Teacher” judges declared St. Augustine of Canterbury School “raised the bar for STREAM integration in the classroom by incorporating coding and robotics into the curriculum areas.” The school, which was awarded $1,000 and a large display banner, plans to expand the initiative and seeks donations and grant funding to buy microbot kits and KIBO Robot kits.. — photo courtesy of St. Augustine of Canterbury School.

St. Elizabeth School, Bernardsville Students stand on the steps between the school and Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, at the beginning of the new school year, along with their mascot. — Courtesy of St. Elizabeth School

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

Island and how immigrants got there helped us understand [how] our team could present our final project.” Maria, another student, added, KENDALL PARK — The incorporation of STREAM (science, technol- “I learned the journey of how immiogy, reading, arts and math) skills in grants went from their country to Elits curriculum has earned St. Augus- lis Island. The hardest thing about the tine of Canterbury School accolades Ozobot was making him do all these cool codes without messing them in a nationwide competition. Earlier this year, the National up. I learned a lot of stuff about the Blue Ribbon Catholic elementary journey to Ellis Island and working school took home the “Today’s Cath- together with my group.” “One of the best things about olic Teacher” magazine’s 2020 Innovations in Catholic Education Award Ozo is that they are fun to use and code,” explained for Technology InteComputer coding and student Arhaan. gration. “The best part of the Computer codrobotics programs are project was learning ing and robotics being piloted in grades was that we could programs are being code with Ozo and at piloted in grades three through five by a the same time learn three through five by a group of teachers, group of teachers, includ- about something in social studies on including Nicole Duing Nicole Duarte, St. a very interesting arte, St. Augustine’s So, we had fun third-grade social Augustine’s third-grade topic. and learned at the studies teacher. Her same time.” social studies teacher. unit on immigration The “Today’s employed the use of Her unit on immigration Catholic Teacher” Ozobots, miniature judges declared St. robots the children employed the use of Augustine of Cantercan program themselves, to represent Ozobots, miniature robots bury school “raised the immigrants who the children can program the bar for STREAM integration in the entered the United classroom by inthemselves, to represent States through Ellis corporating coding Island early last centhe immigrants who and robotics into tury. areas “My passion is entered the United States curriculum where they normally [studying about] Elthrough Ellis Island.... wouldn’t be expectlis Island,” Duarte ed to appear, such said, noting her paas reading, language ternal ancestors arrived in the United States from Italy arts and social studies.” They continued, “This initiavia the New York Harbor entry point. “With other classes in previous years, tive builds upon the success of the we took this journey together. The school’s participation in Code.org’s annual Hour of Code campaign and Ozobots took it to the next level.” Students coding enabled the includes the additional programmable Ozobots to traverse a 10-stop journey ‘micro-bots’ to the classroom, exposmuch like that of the individuals who ing digital-native, tech-hungry stuentered this country via the island. At dents to these concepts and technoloeach stop, the children scanned a QR gies across the learning spectrum.” The school was awarded $1,000 code with their iPads to access facts on the arrival process then test their and a large display banner. St. Augustine School plans to exknowledge. The students used computer code to program the actions of pand the initiative, noted technology the Ozobots, which Duarte described coordinator Tony De Bari, and seeks as “smaller than the palm of your additional donations and grant funding to purchase both microbot kits hand,” along the route. The third-grade students reaped for the upper grades and KIBO Robot the rewards of the innovative program kits for the littlest students. “Our students will reap the rewhich encompassed both academics wards of this innovative use of techand social skills. “What I liked best about the proj- nology in the classroom as they gain ect was that we had to learn to work invaluable 21st century skills that together,” said Olivia, one of the stu- will better prepare them for their condents. “Creating Ozo codes to match tinuing education and eventually preOzo’s feelings and emotions was re- pare them to be successful members ally hard… We also had to base the of the local and global community,” codes on the story of the immigrants, said Religious Teachers Filippini Sisincluding Ozo. Learning about Ellis ter Mary Louise Shulas, principal.

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

Miniature robots help parochial school win major award

8 BACK TO SCHOOL

Immaculata graduate to be honored at golf event Sept. 28 SOMERVILLE — Rich Dupras Jr., a 1978 graduate of Immaculata High School, has been named the 2020 Mackie Award winner for his service to his alma mater. Initiated in 2008, the Mackie Award is presented at the annual Immaculata Golf Classic, which is scheduled to be held Sept. 28 at Heron Glen Golf Course, Ringoes. Dupras’ commitment to the school reflects the spirit of the late J. Brandon (Mackie) Maxwell, the award’s first recipient and for whom the award is named. Through his volunteer work and donations (especially in athletics), Mackie was a huge supporter of Immaculata. As the oldest of nine children, Dupras was the first family member to graduate from Immaculate Conception School and Immaculata High School (IHS). Two sons, Rich III '08 and Matt '11, three nieces, one nephew, and three in-laws followed in his footsteps, bringing the total of IHS Dupras-related graduates to 18. In addition, his parents were very involved in the parent organization, with his mother, Beda Dupras, co-founding the annual fashion show and winning the Spartan of the Year Award in 1986. As a student, Dupras was a member of the National and Spanish Honor So-

cieties, four-year member of the Student has intensified — he serves as president Council, and four-year member of the of the Unitas Caritas Foundation, which football and basketball programs. In his supports improvements and renovations senior year, Dupras was a captain on the to Immaculata’s athletic facilities, as football team. well as providing scholarships for curDupras, of Hillsborrent and future Spartans. ough, has been married Co-chair of Immaculata’s for 34 years to his colRaise the Roof initiative, lege sweetheart, Lisa. He “Mack [J. Brandon Dupras has led the comis a 24-year information fundraising efMaxwell] stood mittee’s technology professional forts to replace the gymwho works as a storage for endless volun- nasium roof and refinish systems engineer for Dell the gymnasium floor. teerism, especially Technologies. “I am incredibly honAfter graduation, shown through his ored and humbled to reDupras was involved in ceive the Mackie Award,” the alumni association as incredible support Dupras said. “Mack was well as working on many friend, my boss, my for these schools my class reunion committees innkeeper, and sometimes and representing his class and the parish." the guy who pushed me in for school-wide events. the right direction when I —Rich Dupras Jr. He worked as a volunteer needed it. coach for football and “Mack stood for winter indoor lacrosse for endless volunteerism, several years. In addition, Dupras was a especially shown through his incredible member of the IHS Golf Outing Com- support for these schools and the parish. mittee. He opened his heart to everyone he met His volunteer efforts extend beyond and always lent a helping hand, when Immaculata, as he served for many years needed. I am overwhelmingly proud to as a coach in youth football, basketball, receive this award with his name on it.” and lacrosse programs in Hillsborough To honor Dupras at the golf outing and as a three-year member of the Hill- and support the Spartans, register at sborough Township Park Commission. www.tinyurl.com/IHSGolfClassic. Most recently, Dupras’ involvement For more information, contact

Rick Dupras Jr. will receive the Mackie Award at the annual Immaculata Golf Classic at Heron Glen Golf Club, Ringoes, for his service to the high school.

— photo courtesy of Rick Dupras Jr.

Stacey Mezzacca Geary '91 at sgeary@ immaculatahighschool.org or Rich Rau '89 at (908) 285-1246.

Save The Date

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Sunday, October 25 at Noon!

EXPERIENCE #LATAPRIDE Join us as we kick-off our Virtual Open Home Week For more information and to RSVP: Immaculatahighschool.org/virtualopenhome

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To learn more about a Saint Joseph education, please visit our website at www.STJOES.org, or call the Office of Admissions at (732) 549-7600 x 221

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

DISCOVER THE SAINT JOEâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DIFFERENCE!

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Academy students assist at virtual public speaking camp

Mount Saint Mary Academy

Open House Sunday, October 18th, 2020 1-4:30 pm Visit our website to discover our many virtual opportunities in the fall.

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SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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In a screenshot clockwise from top right, juniors Emily Abbott and Arianna Salerno and senior Rachel Mack — tri-captains of the Forensics Team at Mount Saint Mary Academy, are joined by Emily's mother, Lana Savron-Abbott, in a recent online meeting. This summer, senior Rachel Mack and juniors Emily Abbott and Arianna Salerno — tri-captains of the Forensics Team 20202021 at Mount Saint Mary Academy, Watchung — planned and presented a free virtual public speaking camp on Zoom for middle school students in the diocese for six weeks. “The camp that we offered to the middle schoolers was made up entirely of improvisational games, icebreakers, and small breakout rooms which revolved around forensics,” Salerno said. “The middle-schoolers had a chance to ask questions about speech and debate, but they also got a chance to improve their skills along the way with the feedback we would give them. “All of the middle-schoolers came to each session eager to learn about our forensic experiences. It was truly an amazing experience and an unforgettable online camp!” she added. “This summer, I had the wonderful opportunity to co-lead a virtual Forensics

camp for middle school students attending St. Matthias [Somerset],” Mack said. “I was able to share my own knowledge of forensics with these students and watch these students grow with each meeting. Working with these students was an amazing experience and I enjoyed working on my own Forensics skills while also helping them hone their skills.” She added, “During this difﬁcult time, I was happy to offer a program where these students, as well as myself and fellow leaders, could share our passion for Forensics and enjoy this summer in a new way. I have no doubt that each of the students involved in the camp will do well in all their endeavors.” Emily’s mother, Lana Savron-Abbott, who served as the moderator, said, “This began as a grassroots effort for a joyful, safe, free camp which turned into a really terriﬁc academic club experience for everyone involved! The girls assisted me in so many ways.”

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safety, maintenance, health, and personnel issues. Faculty members participated in workshops, which included four days of in-service training, to enhance their facility with new technology and techniques needed in these demanding times. Safety, cleaning, and screening protocols have been put in place. Rooms have been rearranged and schedules adjusted to facilitate social distancing and minimize opportunities for close interpersonal contacts. Saint Joseph also recognized that special circumstances would require some students to learn remotely for a period of time. To meet the needs of these students, each classroom will be equipped with technology to live stream the classroom presentation to students’ homes. The school has purchased for each classroom new iPads and Swivl robotic platforms that allow classroom interactions to be simulated and allow remote students to answer and ask questions. In addition, this added technology will allow the school to switch almost seamlessly to increase remote learning should safety and health protocols demand it. For close to 60 years, Saint Joseph has educated and formed young men into individuals committed to faith, service, and excellence. In the midst of this current challenge, Saint Joseph opens its door to continue the tradition of quality Catholic education, formation, and evangelization.

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

WE CHOOSE FORWARD.

St. Francis Cathedral School

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METUCHEN — The opening of school is always a hectic time, but that has never been truer at Saint Joseph High than this year. Amid the COVID-19 pandemic, the task of providing a quality Catholic college preparatory education in a safe, healthy, and conducive environment has never been more demanding. Thanks to the hard work and planning of the school administration, faculty, and staff as well as the cooperation of parents and students, Saint Joseph was prepared to meet that demand. Classes have not been held on Saint Joseph’s campus since March 12, 2020. On a moment’s notice, faculty and students had to switch to a new and very different reality — remote or “virtual learning.” There were some challenges and difﬁculties in this transition but the commitment and dedication of staff, students, and parents ensured that learning and Christian formation remain the primary focuses of the Saint Joseph experience. Building on that remote learning experience, Saint Joseph was prepared to reopen its doors to students with emphasis on religious values, personal attention, friendly discipline, and academic excellence. The school has done extensive planning and preparation to ensure that students and staff can return to a safe, healthy and positive learning environment. The staff was well prepared as it participated in numerous seminars on

School makes hi-tech upgrades

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New models of governance installed at high school EDISON — St. Thomas Aquinas High School has adopted a new governance model where a president and a principal will work collaboratively with a board of limited jurisdiction. Bishop James F. Checchio announced the change in a letter that was shared with the school community Aug. 13. “These models of governance and leadership, which have widely been adopted by Catholic high schools throughout the nation, will enable us to usher in a new era of progress and academic excellence, while simultaneously recognizing the vital role lay leaders play in the success of Catholic school education,” Bishop Checchio wrote in the letter. This is the most recent in a series of changes at the diocese’s co-educational college preparatory school. The school, then-Bishop George Ahr High School, was returned to its original name last year, as the school celebrated its 50th anniversary. The decision to implement the change, which took effect Sept. 1, was made “after careful discernment and only after consultation with the Diocese of Metuchen’s Office of Education and lay leaders in our school community,” and will build upon the foundation already set, according to the letter. “I know, too, from other places

in the nation who have adopted these models of leadership that they have produced great new fruit in the mission of Catholic education,” wrote Bishop Checchio. “I am also grateful to know that consultation with and insights from the current faculty and staff have been a key factor in assisting to ascertain needs, challenges and new possibilities.” Serving as the school’s first president will be Felician Sister Donna Marie Trukowski, who served as its principal for more than 37 years. In the newly established role, she will focus on the key areas of school mission, financial management, facilities, alumni relations, and fundraising. Equipped with decades of experience and strong institutional knowledge, she will also lead the new board of limited jurisdiction, whose purpose will be “to promote and advance the mission of the school as it educates and instructs students to reach the fullness of Christian life.” The board will be comprised of lay leaders, priests and religious from the community who share a unified vision for the school. “With the implementation of this new governance model and the joint efforts of the school’s administration and lay and religious leaders, who together have expertise in Catholic thought, business, finance, education, marketing,

fundraising, law, and facilities management, each with a strong Catholic identity of their own, it is believed that the school will have an even stronger foundation for generations to come,” wrote the bishop. Harry Ziegler, who has served as the school’s associate principal for 11 years, will assume the role of principal. He will be responsible for the day-to-day operations of the school, including guidance, admissions and the school’s programs, such as curriculum, extracurricular, cocurricular and student development. As the principal, he will also be responsible for the overall climate of the school and the development of faculty and students. As part of this, he will be charged with cultivating the spiritual growth of all within the school community and the fostering of the uniquely Christian environment offered at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, according to the letter. “As we reaffirm our commitment and take these next steps forward to ensure that current and future students will continue to thrive in a Christ-centered environment at St. Thomas Aquinas High School, I ask you, too, for your prayers, support and energy for this worthy enterprise central to forming impactful Catholic leaders now and well into the future,” wrote Bishop Checchio.

Special Guest Bishop James F. Checchio poses with Ava, a graduate of St. John Vianney School, Colonia, who is a freshman at St. Thomas Aquinas School, Edison. Ava met Bishop Checchio while she was dining recently with her family. She told the bishop she is looking forward to taking the next steps in her educational journey at St. Thomas Aquinas. — photo courtesy of Bishop James F. Checchio

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

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WE BUILD BETTER BOYS

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ANNANDALE — All fifth-grade walking to church on Sunday when, through eighth-grade students at Im- he said, “I remember smelling the maculate Conception School are em- fantastic fragrance of sauce cooking barking on a new experience this year in the homes of the Sicilian families through a new weekly course they and the broths simmering for risotto will take — Italian Culture. The class in the Lombard homes.” Reflecting on his early years will be taught by Stephen Puricelli, who has taught language arts and growing up in an Italian/American religion at Immaculate Conception neighborhood, Puricelli said, “The for the past five years. He said he is church was the center of all activity, thrilled to have the opportunity to add all the neighbors parented every fama subject that aligns with his passion ily’s children, and we took care of everyone in the neighborhood. for all things Italian. “When the blizzard of 1982 hit, Raised in St. Louis in the Italmy mother organized ian area of the city known as The Hill. all of my friends to The students check on the elderly Puricelli’s paternal grandparents hail every day. We shovwill engage in eled snow and went from Cuggiono, Miactivities such as lano, Italia, and his to the grocery store maternal grandparthem. Only after virtual tours of cities for ents emigrated from that could we have Poggioreale, Sicilia, our snowball fights!” and architecture, Italia. His Lombard/ He said teachone-on-one Sicilian ancestry ing students about and study of the lanItalian culture will conversation guage, food, and culhelp them to not only practice, and when have an appreciation ture continue to give him an appreciation for Italian art, arthe coronavirus of all the regions of chitecture, food, and Italy. people, as well as the pandemic breaks, The course he language, but will exploring a bit of will teach to Immachelp them understand ulate Conception’s the value in knowing Italian cooking. students will include and celebrating their studying the Italian own culture and famlanguage in a conversational manner, ily history. exploring the history of Italy, and the “Integrating Italian Culture highlights of architecture, food, and is a wonderful complement to our activities of various regions of Italy. school’s mission to provide spiritual The students will engage in ac- formation for our students. So much tivities such as virtual tours of cities of our Catholic Church’s history has and architecture, one-on-one conver- roots in Italy,” said Connie Fortunato, sation practice, and when the corona- principal of Immaculate Conception. virus pandemic breaks, exploring a Fortunato’s great grandparents bit of Italian cooking. immigrated to America from Sicily Well prepared to teach about and Calabria, Italy. Italian culture, Puricelli has visited “My most favorite childhood Italy approximately 17 times. He has memory includes the tradition of studied at Loyola University Chi- Sunday dinners, which were the most cago’s John Felice Rome Center, and important event of the week,” she formally studied the Italian language said. “Hours were spent on preparing at the University of Missouri-St. and cooking foods for an early afterLouis, under the guidance of Signora noon dinner. Girolama Guercio Hoff. “Noisy dinners provided a time At his former teaching post in for my family, grandparents, aunts Chicago, he applied for and received and uncles to talk freely and eat well. a grant to spend a month in Italy to Growing up in a strong Italian Ameriabsorb Italian culture. In addition to can family was steeped in tradition, travel and culture, Puricelli spends values, and strong faith in God. I time cooking Italian foods from both look forward to enriching our middle of his traditions as well as many re- school student’s school experience gions of Italy. with our exciting and inspirational One of his best memories is Italian Culture Class.”

Class about Italy could inspire students’ exploration of cultures

14 OUR DIOCESE SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Healthcare systems finalize strategic partnership By Tara Smith Saint Peter’s Healthcare System in New Brunswick and RWJBarnabas Health (RWJBH), headquartered in West Orange, signed a Definitive Agreement Sept. 10, outlining their intention to integrate the two healthcare systems. The announcement comes less than a year after Saint Peter’s and RWJBH signed a Letter of Intent to explore a strategic partnership. The announcement also culminates a three-year discernment process at Saint Peter’s that included a Request for Proposal in October 2018 seeking a strategic partner best suited to help the organization maintain its rich Catholic mission and identity in an increasingly changing and competitive healthcare market. “After careful consideration by Saint Peter’s Board of Governors, senior leadership and Metuchen Bishop James F. Checchio, sole corporate member of Saint Peter’s, we have signed a Definitive Agreement to integrate with RWJBarnabas Health that assures Saint Peter’s continued mission and identity as a Catholic hospital,” said Leslie D. Hirsch, FACHE, president and chief executive officer of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System. Under the terms of the Definitive Agreement, Saint Peter’s – with its flagship hospital, Saint Peter’s University Hospital, a 478-bed acute care teaching hospital and acute care children’s hospital – would remain as a full-service provider of acute healthcare services serving New Jersey and the region, and would continue its longstanding mission and identity as a Catholic hospital in adherence with the standards of care articulated in the “Ethical and Religious Directives for Catholic Health Care Services” (ERDs). In addition, RWJBH has committed to making significant strategic capital investments in facilities, technology and innovation to enhance, and expand the clinical services provided at Saint Peter’s. “RWJBH has a rich history of providing high quality care to the residents of New Jersey – with our Robert Wood Johnson University Hospital campuses in New Brunswick and Somerville, as well as our Rutgers partners at the Cancer Institute of New Jersey and Robert Wood Johnson Medical School, to name but a few – and the inclusion of Saint Peter’s will allow us to only build upon this legacy of service,” said Barry H. Ostrowsky, president and chief executive officer of RWJBarnabas Health. “When finalized, we will have the necessary foundation for the creation of our state’s first and only premier academic medical center.” With the signing of this Definitive Agreement, the proposed partnership will begin a period of review by various state and federal regulatory agencies. Approval by the Catholic Church will also be required.

“We are truly excited about the ings were enshrined in and protected by nity Medical Center, Toms River; Jersey potential of this opportunity to integrate these agreements. City Medical Center; Monmouth Mediwith RWJBarnabas Health to create a cal Center, Long Branch; Monmouth premier academic medical center of na- Catholic Foundation Medical Center Southern Campus, tional distinction in which Saint Peter’s Saint Peter’s Healthcare System Inc., Lakewood; Newark Beth Israel Medical will share responsibility for leadership parent company of the Saint Peter’s Center; Robert Wood Johnson Univerand governance,” Hirsch added. “We healthcare delivery system, is com- sity Hospital, New Brunswick; Robert look forward to collaborating with prised of Saint Peter’s University Hos- Wood Johnson University Hospital RWJBarnabas Health and immediately pital, a 478-bed acute-care teaching Somerset, Somerville; Robert Wood undertaking the planning needed to make hospital and state-designated children’s Johnson University Hospital at Hamilthis vision a reality while also continuing hospital and regional perinatal center; ton; Robert Wood Johnson University our ongoing commitment Saint Peter’s Foundation, Hospital Rahway; and Saint Barnabas ...Saint Peter's... to working collaborativethe fundraising arm of Medical Center, Livingston; three acute ly with community physihospital; Saint Peter’s care children’s hospitals and a leading would remain as a the cians.” Health and Management pediatric rehabilitation hospital with a Most importantly, full-service provider Services Corp., which network of outpatient centers, a freeSaint Peter’s will continue oversees outpatient fa- standing 100-bed behavioral health its longstanding mission of acute healthcare cilities, including the center, two trauma centers, a satellite and heritage as a Catholic services serving CARES Surgicenter; and emergency department, ambulatory care hospital with ongoing adSaint Peter’s Physician centers, geriatric centers, the state’s New Jersey and Associates, a network largest behavioral health network, herence to the standards of care outlined in the ERDs; of primary and specialty comprehensive home care and hospice the region, and Church sponsorship and programs, fitness and wellness centers, care physician practices. oversight will be provided would continue Saint Peter’s is a re- retail pharmacy services, affiliated medby Bishop Checchio. specialist in cancer ical groups, multi-site imaging centers its longstanding gional “Flowing from our care, diabetes, geriatrics, and two accountable care organizations. Catholic teaching regardRWJBH is New Jersey’s largest priorthopedics, bariatric surmission as a ing the God-given dignity gery and head and neck vate employer – with more than 33,000 of each and every human Catholic hospital... surgery and is a sponsor employees, 9,000 physicians and 1,000 person, and striving to of residency programs in residents and interns – and routinely make ever more manifest Christ’s com- obstetrics and gynecology, pediatrics, captures national awards for outstandpassionate care for all, especially for and internal medicine. ing quality and safety. RWJBH recently those who are most vulnerable, Saint PeSaint Peter’s is sponsored by the announced an affiliation with Rutgers ter’s Healthcare System has ministered to Diocese of Metuchen and is a major University to create New Jersey’s largthe sick of the New Brunswick area and clinical affiliate of Rutgers Biomedical est academic health care system. beyond for the past 113 years,” Bishop Health and Sciences. The collaboration will align Checchio said. RWJBH with Rutgers’ education, re“I believe that the Definitive and Comprehensive Care search and clinical activities, including Catholic Identity Agreements that we RWJBarnabas Health is the largest, those at the Rutgers Cancer Institute of enter into with RWJBarnabas Health most comprehensive academic health New Jersey -- the state's only NCI-deswill give Saint Peter’s renewed strength care system in New Jersey, with a ser- ignated Comprehensive Cancer Center and broader resources to continue and vice area covering nine counties with -- and Rutgers University Behavioral expand our sacred mission based on five million people. The system includes Health Care. the teachings of Christ and His Church. 11 acute care hospitals – Clara Maass Smith is associate director, diocCatholic healthcare in central New Jer- Medical Center, Belleville; Commu- esan Office of Communications sey is needed in our day. Our connection with the RWJBarnabas Health System is intended to bolster our ability to provide this Christ-inspired, human personcentered health care to the individuals and communities that we are so honored to serve, protecting and promoting the lives of all. We seek to bring all the medical science and the compassionate love that Christ mandated to every woman, man, and child entrusted to our care.” The bishop further acknowledged the efforts of the Saint Peter’s staff and all those who assisted in arriving at CONFIRMATION HOURS! SATURDAY, OCTOBER 17, 2020 these agreements, singling out especialDJ & Refreshments 9:00 AM - 12:00 PM ly Dr. John M. Haas, PhD, STL, MDiv, President Emeritus and Senior Fellow of Kick-Off @ 9am SHARP No Distance or Time Restrictions! The National Catholic Bioethics Center Merrill Park @ the Gazebo Visit LifeChoicesRC.com in Philadelphia. Haas was appointed by Pope BeneWoodbridge Twsp (Colonia/Iselin) dict XVI as an Ordinary Member of the Intersection of Fairview Ave. & Middlesex Essex Turnpike Pontifical Academy for Life and as a QUESTIONS? consulter to the Pontifical Council for Call or text: 732.516.0911 Health Care Workers, and graciously R E S O U R C E C E N T E R or Email: LifeChoices@optonline.net made his time and expertise available to 503 Main Street, Metuchen ensure that the Catholic Church’s teach-

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15 OUR DIOCESE

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THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

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16 OUR DIOCESE

Pandemic prompts Family Life director to create virtual groups Cristina D’Averso-Collins, director, Diocesan Ofﬁce of Family Life Ministry, is responsible for providing resources and supporting ministries of welcome, formation and pastoral care for members of families, throughout the life cycle. Since the COVID-19 pandemic began, she has been creating online communities. “The Catholic Spirit” decided to ask her about the effects of going online and how it has changed her ministry.

Q: Have you seen different struggles within families since the COVID-19 pandemic began?

Q: Did your office have any online communities before the pandemic?

A: We launched our ﬁrst online program, a retreat for mothers, in May. As a young mother myself, I am particularly concerned with the challenges facing mothers today, especially in light of the pandemic. Working mothers have been struggling to balance homeschooling and careers, while stay-at-home mothers, who so often rely on community with other mothers and their children, have found themselves feeling more isolated. In conjunction with the[diocesan] Pro-Life Ofﬁce, we decided to provide an opportunity for these women to come together. Our speaker, Colleen Carroll Campbell, delivered a talk entitled, “No Perfect Mothers in a Pandemic,” which was extremely wellreceived. One of the blessings of online events is that they are not geographically bound. The retreat drew participants from across the United States and from other

A: No, and before the pandemic, I was not aware of any online communities offered.

Q: It has been said that Family Life is more important now than ever. Why is this so?

A: Family Life is especially important right now, considering the greater amount of time families are spending together and the fact that we have become unaccustomed to doing so. Families, right now, are learning to reclaim the importance of time spent with one another, however difﬁcult this can be. Despite challenges, we are perhaps, ironically, being led to rediscover the centrality of the family.

A: I have read disconcerting studies regarding the rates of abuse and mental health difﬁculties. Colloquially, however, what I hear most often is that families are struggling to balance work and care for/ schooling of children.

Q: When, how and why did you launch your first online program?

countries. We welcomed women from Canada, the UK [United Kingdom] and Brazil.

Q: What online programs is your office now conducting?

A: Right now, our “God’s Plan for Joy-Filled Marriage” marriage preparation sessions are fully online through the end of the year. Additionally, our Marriage Encounter group has decided to meet online and our Natural Family Planning Classes have become virtual as well. We have also added two exciting new programs: a virtual Women’s Group and a virtual Bible Study for Young Couples. Our Women’s Group meets twice a month on Mondays at 7 p.m. on Zoom. We are discussing Colleen Carroll Campbell’s book, “The Heart of Perfection.” My husband and I held our ﬁrst meeting of the Young Couples’ Bible Study on Aug. 24 and we plan to meet every other Monday on Zoom at 6:30 p.m.

Q: Were your virtual communities difficult to create?

I have found the creation of the virtual communities to be surprisingly organic, given the fact that so many people are seeking these opportunities. Such communities are essential in meeting the needs of the faithful at this unique moment in our history. There can be a reticence among ministry leaders to implement virtual opportunities, but I would stress that they are not intended to be a “once-and-for-all” replacement for in-person interaction. They are simply addressing important needs which we must do as a Church.

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Q: Do you think virtual communities will continue after the pandemic is over?

A: We may find that, post-pandemic, these virtual options work well for some communities. For example, young adults often receive the greatest benefit in virtual groups due to their schedules and demands on their time. Our Natural Family Planning (NFP) couples getting married within our diocese sometimes do not reside within diocesan boundaries or live far from locations where courses are offered. A virtual option could lead to greater participation in NFP instruction as we have seen these past few months. On a personal level, my husband and I have benefited from this in our own marriage insofar as we participated in an online training for the Marquette Method and now have phone follow-ups with our instructor based in Wisconsin.

Q: Which are getting the most participants? To what do you attribute this?

A: Right now, the Women’s Group has generated the most interest. I believe that Catholic women are eager to build up community and friendship since mutual support is so vital to the feminine spirit.

Q: What type of feedback have you received on your programs?

A: Gratitude has characterized the overwhelming amount of feedback that I have received. In a time when so many programs are cancelled, our engaged couples, in particular, have been eager and grateful to complete their marriage preparation online.

Q: Have you encountered any surprises in setting up communities?

A: One of the most rewarding and surprising experiences I had was when one of our virtual “God’s Plan” couples approached me with the idea of starting a young couples’ group. She and her ﬁancé were looking for opportunities to engage with other young couples and to learn more about their faith. She asked if my husband and I led such a group or knew of such opportunities. That idea led us to create the Bible Study. My husband, who, like me, holds a Master’s Degree in Marriage and Family Theology, and I enjoy leading groups together and truly believe that this was the voice of the Holy Spirit speaking to us. We are excited to see how this will bear fruit for our Church and truly welcome any other ideas as well.

Q: What is the one question that you are asked most often?

A: The question I am asked most often is how the faithful can find Catholic therapists. There is, undoubtedly, a tremendous need for therapists who counsel from a Christian anthropology/worldview. This means that the therapist does not view faith as an “add-on,” but rather, that which is part of a holistic understanding of the person and leads to authentic flourishing. It means that the therapist does not give advice contrary to Catholic teaching on the person, not because of mandates, but rather because the Church is an “expert in humanity,” according to Pope Benedict XVI. I have referred people to a few therapists I trust and also welcome any Catholic therapists within the community to come forward so that we can create an updated resource list for others. The Office of Family Life website can be found at https://diometuchen.org/familylife — Joanne Ward

Phoenixville, Pa. Her family moved to Bethlehem, Pa., when she was in the eighth grade. Her family are members of Notre Dame of Bethlehem Parish in the Diocese of Allentown. Sister attended Notre Dame Elementary School and Bethlehem Catholic High School. She earned a Bachelor of Science in Nursing Degree at Cedar Crest College School of Nursing, Allentown, Pa.; and became acquainted with the Sisters of Christian Charity while working as a nurse at Holy Family Convent, Danville, Pa., the former home for senior Sisters. Sister Mary Amata entered the order in 2011 and made her first profession of vows in 2014. As a Sister of Christian Charity, she has ministered at Chestnut Hill Rehabilitation Center, Passaic; Holy Family Convent, Wilmette, Ill., as interim director of nursing and North Hudson Community Action Corporation, Passaic, a clinic for the underserved. She currently serves as charge nurse at the DePaul Ambulatory Clinic at St. Joseph University Medical Center, Paterson. Sister Mary Amata lives at St. Anthony’s Convent, Passaic.

Novices profess vows

From left, Robert and Catherine Reifsnyder, parents of Christian Charity Sister Mary Amata, join Christian Charity Sister Mary Edward Spohrer, provincial superior, and Bishop Emeritus Arthur J. Serratelli of Paterson in celebration of Sister Mary Amata’s perpetual profession. — photo courtesy of Sisters of Christian Charity

Sister Mary Amata “hopes to continue to follow in the footsteps and Eucharistic zeal of the foundress of the Sisters of Christian Charity,

Blessed Pauline von Mallinckrodt, by receiving and giving Christ’s love daily, especially among the underserved in our society.”

Eleven renew vows at ceremony

From left, Newark Auxiliary Bishop Elias R. Lorenzo, Evelyn and Kenneth Pearce, Christian Charity Sister Elena Pearce, Christian Charity Sister Chiara Marie Stimpfle, Cynthia and Richard Stimpfle, and charity Sister Mary Edward Spohrer pose after the Liturgy of the First Profession. Sister Elena, of Helmetta, will minister as a teacher at St. James School, Basking Ridge, and continue to reside at Mallinckrodt Convent. Members of her family attended. Sister Chiara Marie of Quakertown, Pa., in the Diocese of Allentown, will teach at St. Jude School, Mountain Top, Pa., and live at St. Nicholas Convent, Wilkes-Barre, Pa. Christian Charity Sister Mary Edward Spohrer, provincial superior, received the vows of the Sisters in the presence of the community. After the final blessing, Bishop Elias exclaimed: “As women of unbounded love, go now and wake up the world.”

Sisters of Christian Charity pose at the Chapel of Villa Pauline, Mendham, front row: Sister Graciela Colon, lawyer at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen Immigration Services; Sister Marie Pia Arca, student at Assumption College for Sisters, Denville; Sister Paulina Navarro, student at the College of St. Elizabeth, Madison, and part-time youth minister at St. Bridget/St Elizabeth Parish, Peapack; Sister Josephine Wagner, student, Kings College, Wilkes-Barre, Pa; Sister Clara Kim, chaplain, St. Joseph’s Healthcare and Rehab Center, Cedar Grove; Sister John Paul Thorley, teacher, Morris Catholic High School, Denville; (back row) S. Lucianna Le, Motherhouse, preparing for Philippine Mission; Sister Bridget Harakel, teacher, St. Francis Cathedral School, Metuchen; Sister Mary Edward Spohrer, provincial superior; Sister Mathilde de Lucy, music teacher, St. Francis Cathedral School; Sister Regina Bathelon, teacher, St. Elizabeth School, Bernardsville; Sr. Luiza Simon, director of faith formation, Holy Infancy Parish, Bethlehem, Pa. — photo courtesy of Sisters of Christian Charity

On Aug. 14, the Sisters of Christian Charity gathered in the Chapel of Villa Pauline, Mendham, the first Motherhouse of the Sisters of Christian Charity of the Eastern Province, to celebrate the renewal of vows of 11 temporary professed sisters.

Christian Charity Sister Mary Edward Spohrer received the vows of the Sisters in the presence of the community. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the liturgy was livestreamed on the SCC webpage (www.scceast.org) and Facebook page.

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

— photo courtesy of Sisters of Christian Charity

On Aug. 16, two novices of the Sisters of Christian Charity, Sister Elena Pearce and Sister Chiara Marie Stimpfle, pronounced their vows in the Liturgy of First Profession. Auxiliary Bishop Elias R. Lorenzo of the Archdiocese of Newark officiated the ceremony. In his homily, Bishop Elias said, “We thank these women of faith for their spirit of generosity in service . . . and to their parents whose examples helped to foster their vocations.” Because of the coronavirus, the Liturgy of Profession was livestreamed on the community’s website (www.scceast.org) and Facebook page. It can be viewed as an archived post.

OUR DIOCESE

On the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Aug. 15, in the Chapel of Mary Immaculate of the Sisters of Christian Charity, Mallinckrodt Convent, Mendham, Sister Mary Amata Reifsnyder pronounced her perpetual profession of vows in the presence of the community and her family. Christian Charity Sister Mary Edward Spohrer, provincial superior, received her vows. Bishop Emeritus Arthur J. Serratelli of the Diocese of Paterson officiated the ceremony. Members of the congregation serve at several parishes and schools in the Diocese of Metuchen and in administration for it. Because of the coronavirus pandemic, the Liturgy of Perpetual Profession was livestreamed on the community’s website (www.scceast. org) and Facebook page. This enabled the Sisters throughout the Congregation, the Companions of Pauline, and friends of the Sisters of Christian Charity to watch it. St. Corona, an early Christian martyr, was mentioned in the Litany of the Saints during the Rite of Perpetual Profession. Sister Mary Amata was born in

Sister of Christian Charity pronounces perpetual vows in ceremony

18 ORDINATION SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Father Keyes’ journey to priesthood included career in business By Christina Leslie Correspondent “I am not a poster child of how you do vocations,” Father David Edward Keyes said as he looked back on his long road to the priesthood, a journey which stretched across two dioceses and eight years. Now a parochial vicar at St. Ambrose Parish, Old Bridge, the 36-year-old cleric described the long yet faith-ﬁlled route he had taken to his ordination as a priest of the Diocese of Metuchen. Born in Dodgeville, Wisc., one of two children born to Edward and Marsha Keyes, Father Keyes graduated from Milwaukee’s Marquette University in 2001 with a degree in marketing communications. Over the course of his career in the secular world, he worked with The Corporate Executive Board Company (CEB, Inc.) as a brand and consumer manager; the City of Chicago as a marketing associate for its 2016 Olympic Bid, and BP Oil and Gas Corp. as a B2B marketing associate. The call to serving Christ was louder than that to continue his business career, however, and the young man began his circuitous route to priestly service. “I spent two years based out of Stockbridge, Mass., with the Marians of the Immaculate Conception, then discerned I was to be a diocesan priest,” Father Keyes recalled. The three years of study back in

his home diocese of Madison, Wisc., was journey, Father Keyes admitted, “There is a followed by his 2014 enrollment at Mt. St. lot of joy and sadness you go through. You Mary Seminary, Emmitsburg, Md., where need to mourn for the earthly family you Father Kenneth D. Brighenti served as vice will not have. But don’t run from that fear. rector. Run to God and work through that. God Father Brighenti’s will put the right people “I was on the way in your life while you disreturn to New Jersey to take up the pastorate at cern the priesthood.” back and had to St. Magdalen de Pazzi The most important Parish, Flemington, gave part of priesthood, Facross a one-lane the future Father Keyes ther Keyes, asserted “is bridge, I felt hands building up the domestic a window into life in the Diocese of Metuchen and Church and praying with on my chest and made it his new spiritual your children.” heard a voice that home. He graduated from “Vocations are easy the seminary in 2019 with in families that pray toI was to become a gether. You’ll have beautimaster’s degrees in divinity and moral theology. ful vocations,” he said. priest. It was a He was ordained a deacon The new priest’s bigmystical, tangible gest challenge at the start for the diocese in a private ceremony in March. of his ministry is to meet experience.” Father Keyes said the people of the parish one of the seminal mobecause of the isolation of ments on his journey to the coronavirus pandemthe priesthood occurred during a visit to a ic. “But God provides and I hopefully will friend studying in Mundelein Seminary in be able to integrate myself in a fairly quick Illinois, the major seminary of the Archdio- manner,” Father Keyes said. “I think what I cese of Chicago. will enjoy the most is being with the people “I was on the way back and had to and helping the faithful grow in their relacross a one-lane bridge,” he recalled. “I felt tionship with Jesus Christ and administer hands on my chest and heard a voice that I the sacraments for the salvation of souls. was to become a priest. It was a mystical, It’s an amazing and solemn responsibility tangible experience.” to offer Holy Mass for the people of God.” Recalling the remainder of his priestly His advice to someone considering a

vocation to the priesthood echoed his own unique journey. “A vocation is fostered in community,” he said. “If you are feeling called to the priesthood, no matter where it leads you, ﬁnd others that will support you in that discernment. “Also, do not be afraid, no matter if you end up being a priest or not, you will become a better man for discerning and growing in virtue.”

When you are a child, you emulate other people by playing “pretend.” Father Thomas W. Lanza though, did not choose a doctor or a teacher as a typical eight-year-old might. He enlisted his little sister to be an altar server while he played the priest. It was his admiration for Father Anthony Carotenuto, pastor, Assumption Parish, New Egypt, that was a hint of what Father Lanza would eventually yearn to become. He said it was always in the back of his mind to be a priest but his life took a turn toward a management career after graduating from Ramapo College, where he had been recruited out of high school to play volleyball. For several years, he pursued the usual path of a college grad. He worked as a manager for a rental car company and, later, handled logistics for a warehouse. But he felt a nag, he said, to give back. So, he approached his current pastor, Father Robert G. Lynam, at St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park, for some direction. That is when Father Lanza began teaching CCD and religious education at the school, served as an extraordinary minister of holy Communion and assisted in bringing the Eucharist and ministry companionship to patients at Saint Peter’s

University Hospital, New Brunswick. His to be a Christian during this time period, discernment had begun. what does it mean to be a disciple?” he ex“That was the lens in which I saw the plained. “These are really good questions priesthood — as a servant, as somebody to ask yourself — not just for me, but for who brings about meaning and fulfillment anybody. Those are two things that really in people’s lives through God, through Je- sort of stuck out as questions in my prayer sus,” he said. “Someone who helps human- life as I’m now transitioning again back ity to become better.” into a rectory.” Pivoting from working “I’m really looking Recognizing that the a full-time job, however, to Church has experienced forward to trying some difficult times howliving within a community of 60 young seminarians while ever, doesn’t dissuade Father my hand a little undertaking a tough acaLanza’s optimism and ideas demic program at St. Mary’s bit being creative on how to engage lapsed Seminary and University, Catholics as part of his priestBaltimore, was a big adjust- around engaging hood responsibilities in the ment, said Father Lanza. people that we’ve future. In due course, though, he “I’m really looking began to read more quickly, lost, young adults forward to trying my hand embrace his new reality, and little bit being creative that maybe have aaround even partnered with the presengaging people that ident-rector of the university stopped coming to we’ve lost, young adults that on a special project. maybe have stopped coming Church…” Then came the COto Church…and get them to VID-19 pandemic. Classes like the Church again,” said ended abruptly in March, so Father Lanza. “I think I have he moved back in with his parents, leaving the talent and skills, God-given of course, behind a routine of daily Mass and partici- to hopefully change that tide a little bit and pation in parish events at Our Lady of the maybe rally some of my contemporaries, Fields, Millersville, Md. It was yet another the younger priests, to follow suit.” adjustment, but it gave him an opportunity Ultimately, he would like to lead a to revisit his spiritual foundation. flock of his own. It is a role he is comfort“I was sort of forced to go inward able with given his experience in the workand really get in touch with what it means force leading a team toward a goal. His

Congratulations to our new priests! Father John Fredy Triana – Beltran, CO Father David Keyes Father Thomas Lanza Father Gustavo Rodriguez – Perez Father Gilbert Starcher We thank God for your priesthood and assure you of our prayers. St. Philip and St. James Church 430 South Main Street Phillipsburg, New Jersey 08865

ORDINATION

By Debra Stevko Miller Correspondent

New priest looks forward to celebrating ‘firsts’ with faithful

vestor, advisor and mentor, Father Lynam, has been an inspiration to his aspirations to become a pastor someday. His initial assignment is at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bernardsville, but he will also be teaching theology at Immaculata High School, Somerville. Reﬂecting on the future, Father Lanza said, “One of the things I’m really, really looking forward to is being able to celebrate a lot of ‘ﬁrsts’ with people like baptisms, weddings, even funerals in a sense, where you get to share with people a really intimate moment in their life and, hopefully, guiding them.”

The Parish and School Communities of St. Bartholomew in East Brunswick

Congratulates Rev. John Fredy Triana-Beltran, CO Rev. David E. Keyes Rev. Gustavo Andres Rodriguez-Perez Rev. Gilbert Z. Starcher as you celebrate your ordination

May Christ to Whose service you have dedicated your life continue to bless your ministry

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

Rev. Thomas W. Lanza

20 ORDINATION

Above, priests from the Diocese of Metuchen process into the National Blue Army Shrine for Our Lady of Fatima, Asbury, Aug. 22, for Mass and Rite of Ordination for five transitional deacons, standing at left, to the priesthood.

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Right, Bishop James F. Checchio (center) blesses olive oil and a perfume called balsam when mixed to make chrism oil. The oil is used for sacramental purposes, including holy orders. The blessing is usually held during Holy Week, but was postponed this year because of the coronavirus pandemic.

Bishop Checchio presides at the Rite of Ordination, during which the five candidates, including Transitional Deacon Gustavo Andres Rodriguez, make their “Promise of Obedience.” Kneeling replicates the gestures of Christ when he was in the midst of a crisis.

ASBURY — At long last, the spiritual journeys of five men reached a glorious summit as Transitional Deacons David Edward Keyes, Thomas William Lanza, Gustavo Andres Rodriguez-Perez and Gilbert Zachariah Starcher, and Oratorian Brother John Fredy Triana-Beltran were ordained to the priesthood. “We are grateful for the gift of these five men who will lay down their lives in service to the Church,” said Bishop James F. Checchio before hundreds of clergy, family, friends and well-wishers in attendance to witness the milestone event Aug. 22. The rite, usually celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen, was instead moved to the open-air National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima amphitheater because of the ongoing coronavirus pandemic and the need to accommodate more people in a socially-distant environment. Fortuitously, the date marked the Feast of the Queenship of Mary, the patroness of the diocese. In his homily, Bishop Checchio, who presided at the Mass, said the five men taking their priestly vows made up the largest ordination class in the diocese in the past 25 years. All but Father Triana-Beltran were ordained for the diocese. He is a member of the Raritan Congregation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri, which resides at St. Ann Rectory in Raritan. The Oratorians serve at St. Ann Parish and its school; St. Joseph Parish and the Shrine of the Blessed Sacrament, also in Raritan; and

Holy Trinity Parish, Bridgewater. Bishop Checchio advised the new priests rely upon their mother, Mary, since “sacrifice, the priesthood and the Incarnation forever go together.” Recalling the Gospel of John, wherein Jesus entrusted his mother, Mary, to the disciple at the foot of the cross, Bishop Checchio said, “Jesus Christ, after having given all he could give… gave us the most precious thing he had left: his holy mother. Every Christian person is entrusted to Mary, our mother,” he continued. “God made himself dependent upon his own creature [by] awaiting Mary’s ‘yes.’ Addressing the five who were about to become ordained priests, the bishop added, “My brothers, there will be a special relationship between Mary and you beginning today. Take Mary into your inner being, all that your priestly ministry will be… You can and must feel you are the truly chosen beloved disciple.” Bishop Checchio advised the priests to hold up Mary as their model and be “a celibate, prayerful and obedient priest.” “Go out to all the corners of the diocese to be with those in need of Jesus. You don’t go alone,” he continued. “You have the prayers and gratitude of the people of the Diocese of Metuchen… Go forth today with enthusiasm. The Holy Spirit that acted in Christ is the same spirit that acts in you today.” Father Mauricio Tabera-Vasquez, director, diocesan Office of Vocations, made a public affirmation that the five candidates were prepared to take up their priestly ministries, and each man asserted that he had come willingly and faithfully

21 ORDINATION Top of page, center, the newly ordained priests assist Bishop James F. Checchio, principal celebrant, in praying the consecration. Above, priests from the diocese lay their hands on each of the candidates in silence. The ritual symbolizes the fact that they are to be ordained into the presbyteral college of the the local Church. — Mike Ehrmann photos

priests’ first parish assignments as parochial vicars. Father Keyes will serve at St. Ambrose, Old Bridge; Father Lanza will minister at Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bernardsville, and teach at Immaculata High School, Somerville; Father Rodriquez-Perez will serve at St. Joseph, North Plainfield; Father Starcher will minister at St. Philip and St. James, Phillipsburg; and Oratorian Father Triana-Beltran was assigned to the Blessed Sacrament Shrine, Raritan. After celebrating the Mass and delivering his remarks, Bishop Checchio knelt in front of the altar and each of the five new priests gave their first priestly blessing upon him. The clergy then recessed out of the Shrine. `Father Keyes, Father Lanza, Father Rodriquez-Perez, Father Starcher and Oratorian Father Triana-Beltran returned to the altar. Members of the congregation eagerly formed queues before each new priest to receive their blessings, as others shared their admiration for the five. Orlando and Maria Barcenas of St. Matthew Parish, Edison, snapped numerous cellphone photos of the rite. Beaming, Orlando explained, “We are friends of Gustavo, a good man. His family couldn’t come [due to the pandemic], but we are here for him.” Jay Locquiao, a member of St. Ann Parish, Raritan, shared, “I came to witness the gift of the priesthood. I am aware of the struggles that Fredy [Father TrianaBeltran] went through to get there, the many steps along the way. He carried his cross and was able to obtain the graces he needed. He’ll help the people with those graces.”

Above, the five transitional deacons prostrate themselves as the Litany of Saints is sung. Right, Bishop James F. Checchio lays hands on the head of Transitional Deacon Thomas William Lanza, invoking the Holy Spirit and ordaining him to the priesthood. Below, Bishop Checchio anoints the hands of Father David Edward Keyes THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

to the priesthood. In a preponderance of caution during the early weeks of the pandemic, the diocese had postponed the annual Chrism Mass, at which the bishop blesses the holy oils used in numerous church rites. So that he might anoint the hands and head of his new priests, Bishop Checchio blessed and consecrated oils in the amphitheater before the ordination. During the Rite of Ordination, the men declared their willingness to undertake the tasks and obligations of the priesthood. The men knelt before the bishop to promise fealty to him and his successors; they lay prostrate before the altar to symbolize both their unworthiness for the office to be assumed and dependence upon God and the prayers of the Christian community as a schola led the congregation in the timeless chant “Litany of the Saints.” The last notes of the litany faded, and the five men arose to approach Bishop Checchio, who then laid his hands on their heads, one after the other, in silent prayer to invoke the Holy Spirit. Then, one by one, their fellow priests filed from their seats into the sanctuary to bless their new brothers in faith in the same manner. The vestments of a deacon the five wore were replaced by a stole and chasuble, the garments of a priest. They knelt once more before Bishop Checchio as he anointed their palms with Holy Chrism. During the Kiss of Peace, each new priest was embraced by the bishop and their fellow clerics. They then joined the prelates at the altar to consecrate, for the first time, the bread and wine during the Liturgy of the Eucharist. Bishop Checchio announced the five

22 ORDINATION

Holy Spirit, clergy inspired Colombian-born man to priesthood By Karen Corpora Correspondent During his youth, Father Gustavo Andres Rodriguez Perez was inspired to join the seminary by the living example of his pastor and the priest in his parish. “I saw in them a living example of Jesus Christ. After learning what the Mass is about and what the sacrament of reconciliation is for, I fell in love with Christ and his Church,” he said. “When my pastor asked me if I would like to be a priest, I just said, ‘yes.’” He was to learn that going to the seminary was just the beginning of that answer. Originally from Jamundí, Colombia, Father Perez began studies for the priesthood at Jules Chevalier Seminary, a minor seminary run by the Missionaries of the Sacred Heart in Bogota, Colombia. After years of formation in Colombia, he felt the Lord was calling him to serve as a diocesan priest. It would mean that he would have to leave his country, which he did. “Coming to America is the result of my journey to the priesthood. I deﬁnitely believe it is the Holy Spirit who brought me to this beautiful country,” he stated. It may have been the Holy Spirit who guided Father Perez, but he was invited to come to America to continue his journey to

the priesthood by Msgr. Randall J. Vashon. of seminary and landed me in a reality Director, diocesan Office of Vocations at in which Jesus is the only consolation the time, Msgr. Vashon opened the doors people have,” he said. to the diocese for him. After a year of disWorking with Father Jerome A. Johncernment, Father Perez was accepted at St. son, pastor, and the St. Thomas staff to find Vincent Seminary, Latrobe, Pa., where he ways to provide for the community, he continued his theological studies. realized, “We needed to let them [the pa“Being a seminarian rerishioners] know that Jesus quires us to get to know our“I truly believe Christ remains with us, now selves better and to be open more than ever.” to the transformation of our this [COVID-19] Seeing the empty pews soul,” said. “As a seminarian, in the large, vibrant parish pandemic has was painful, it is very easy to lean on what said Father reminded me Perez. you think are your strengths. “Seminary is challeng“I truly believe this of what my ing because it shows you pandemic has reminded who you are and who you ministry is about me of what my ministry are called to be,” he added. is about and where I have and where I “Your strengths, your fears, to put my faith and trust,” and your weaknesses all have to put my he said. “I am called to be play an important role. Asa priest of Jesus Christ, to suming and recognizing faith and trust.” offer the daily sacrifice of them is the most challengMass, to meet the repentant ing thing any man can exin the confessional, to visit perience.” the sick, to witness marIn May, Father Perez completed his riages and to baptize their children. studies. He was ordained to the priest“I also look forward to going out to hood by Bishop James F. Checchio with find the flock and share Jesus Christ with four other men Aug. 22 at the Blue Army them.” Shrine, Asbury. Reflecting on the past 13 years, FaFather Perez spent the months lead- ther Perez said, “When I made the deciing up to his ordination serving at St. sion to go to the seminary, I knew it was Thomas the Apostle Parish, Old Bridge. going to be a journey not only for me, but “COVID-19 put me out of the walls also for my family. They were not really

The Clergy, Staff and Parishioners of

Mary, Mother of God Church

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

wish to congratulate Rev. Gustavo Andres Rodriguez-Perez to the priesthood of Jesus Christ. “We must pray without getting tired because the salvation of humanity does not depend on material success, but only in Jesus Christ.” -Santa Francisca Javier Cabrini “Debemos orar sin cansarnos, porque la salvacion de la humanidad no depende del exito material…sino solo de Jesus.” - Santa Francisca Javier Cabrini

convinced that I should pursue the priesthood. They wanted to see me as a successful businessman with a big and beautiful family. The priesthood didn’t match their expectations. Through my journey, my family has come to understand and accept my decision. It is heartwarming to be able to have them share this with me.” For those considering the priesthood, Father Perez said, “Go forth! God calls and it is our responsibility to answer him back! Take time to discern, but above all, take time to be alone with God. Spend time in front of the Blessed Sacrament and learn to hear his voice.”

Father Gilbert Zachariah Starcher felt an attraction to the priesthood from early childhood, an attraction that has matured into certainty that God wants him to live his life as a priest. “I’m excited to get to work,” Father Starcher said. “I felt called to this all my life. I’m very excited. I’m looking forward to the surprises that God will send my way.” He added that he is most looking forward to “being the Lord’s hands and bringing his heart” to people. One of seven children born to Linda and Robert Starcher, Father Starcher grew up in Glen Gardner. His family attended Mass daily at St. Ann Church, Hampton. The Catholic faith was an integral part of their family life, with time set aside each day to pray the rosary and Chaplet of Divine Mercy. They also made a weekly holy hour together. From age 9, Father Starcher was an altar server and the closeness to God in the Eucharist that he experienced through serving daily Mass, and adoration was “where the vocation began to grow.” As a child, he was inspired by the two pastors at St. Ann’s — the late Father William J. Hewitt, whose gentleness in the way he served people first

attracted him to the priesthood; and ing toward fluency for several years and Father Michael C. Saharic, who in- continues to study with a tutor. spired him most. “He was always ready As a seminarian, Father Starcher and available for people and would put heard the Lord’s call even more while everything aside to help out a grieving working with the Franciscan Sisters of family,” Father Starcher said. “I was just the Renewal in their soup kitchen in the so impressed by that.” Harlem area of New York City. In hosEducated at home pital ministry, as well, he in elementary and high “I’m here in service “really had a sense that school, Father Starcher the Lord was present.” earned a bachelor’s de- to the Church, and He ministered at Huntgree in philosophy at Ave a steward of the erdon Medical Center, Maria University, Ave Raritan Township; and mysteries of God. St. Joseph’s Hospital, Maria, Fla. He entered Immaculate ConcepPaterson, bringing Holy But that means tion Seminary at Seton communion to patients Hall University, South that my will and and praying with them. Orange, in 2015. In semi“The sense you get what I want to do when you’re there is that nary, he earned a Master of Arts degree in theol- shouldn’t be first. It medical advancements, ogy with a concentration technology, and doctors should be in Biblical studies, and with all of their skill is a Master of Divinity detremendous, and to watch Christ first.” gree. them work is exciting Bishop James F. … but at a certain point Checchio ordained Fathere’s not much more ther Starcher to the priesthood at the Na- that can be done. There are some probtional Blue Army Shrine to Our Lady of lems only God can heal,” Father Starcher Fatima, Asbury, Aug. 22. He will serve said. “In the Scriptures we hear that God as a parochial vicar at St. Philip and St. cares deeply about the sick.” James Parish, Phillipsburg. He said he He added, “Caring for the sick, I’ve is looking forward to celebrating Mass, encountered the Lord so much and know caring for the sick, and eager to work in I’ll encounter him there again.” Spanish ministry since he has been workFather Starcher noted a guiding

ORDINATION

By Teresa Murphy Correspondent

Pastors’ gentleness, compassion inspired vocation to priesthood

Scripture verse for him is John 2:5: “Do whatever he tells you.” “For me that’s important,” he said. “I’m here in service to the Church, and a steward of the mysteries of God. But that means that my will and what I want to do shouldn’t be first. It should be Christ first. And that can be difficult because I’m a human being, and I like to plan out my day, and I like to have that control. So, I’m trying to integrate into my life the words of the Blessed Mother, and to do whatever he tells me, to listen to the Lord.”

Congratulates and welcomes

Father Gilbert Z. Starcher “YOU ARE A PRIEST FOREVER.”

HE B REWS 7:17

St. Philip & St. James Church 430 South Main Street • Phillipsburg, NJ

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

on his Ordination to the Priesthood. We are happy to welcome you to our parish!

24 ORDINATION SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Colombian-born priest seeks to connect faithful to Jesus By Teresa Murphy Correspondent Oratorian Father John Fredy TrianaBeltran said his deepest wish as he begins his life as a priest is to grow in a deep connection with God, and to foster that connection for others. Reﬂecting on his ordination to the priesthood Aug. 22, he added that he felt both nervous and excited. “It is a big commitment, but there’s also trust that God is the one who is guiding me. I am here because the Lord wants me to be here. …I am disposed for whatever he wants me to do. “Being a priest -- giving up all pleasures and the opportunity to make a name for yourself – is difﬁcult, but it’s also a blessing.” Born in Colombia, growing up Father Triana-Beltran lived mainly in Bogotá, capital of the South American country. He attended a private school in Bogotá and his parents, John, and Arnulfo, and his sister Blanca, continue to live there. For a couple of years, he also lived with his grandparents in the smaller town of Granada, Colombia. He served two years in the Colombian Army and pursued a career as a professional soccer player. Although a lifelong Catholic who attended Mass regularly, Father Triana-Beltran said he

was not particularly religious while he was young. As a young adult, he dated a woman for ﬁve years, and was seriously considering marriage. But after going with a friend to a mission in December 2006, he began to feel that he was being called to the priesthood. “I went with him, and I felt this strange moment,” Father Triana-Beltran recalled. He started to question what he was doing with his life. Attending the mission was the beginning of his journey to the priesthood. For about a year, he thought and prayed about what he should do. He decided to end the relationship with his girlfriend, who supported and encouraged him in his discernment. In 2008, he entered Immaculate Conception Seminary, Seton Hall University, South Orange. After about two years in seminary, Father Triana-Beltran decided to return home. English is his second language, so although he enjoyed his courses, he said they were challenging at times, and he was feeling homesick. Just as he was about to book a plane ticket home to Colombia, however, Father Triana-Beltran’s friend, Oratorian Father Kevin P. Kelly, called him and after hearing that he was struggling and wanted to leave seminary, in-

vited him to stay with him at the home of the Congregation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri for one week. The Congregation was founded by St. Philip Neri in 1575 to create a family-like community for priests and lay brothers, and currently has more than 500 members worldwide. The congregation established a home in the Diocese of Metuchen in 1998. Father Triana-Beltran called Father Kelly’s offer “so providential.” “It was God using Father Kevin as a tool,” he added. After spending the week with the Oratorians, he knew he needed to stay in seminary and that he wanted to join the congregation and spend the rest of his life with them. “My whole community is an inspiration,” he stated. “I have the opportunity to live with four wonderful priests.” They “really share themselves with the people,” he said. “Seeing them help people understand God’s love in their lives is what is guiding my priesthood.” Father Triana-Beltran described life as an Oratorian as “a balance between being a religious priest and being a diocesan priest.” “We human beings are always attracted by the family-oriented life,”

he said. “The oratory was created as a family. Everybody needs family.” He will live with the Oratorians at their home in Raritan Borough, and will join the others members of the congregation in serving at St. Joseph Parish, St. Ann Parish, and Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, all in Raritan; and Holy Trinity Parish, Bridgewater. “My goal is to really help people understand Jesus in their lives,” Father Triana-Beltran asserted, adding. “God is going to take care of us, guide us, and help us to do his work here.”

The Parish Family of St. Elizabeth-St. Brigid Far-Hills-Peapack

The members of the Raritan Congregation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri congratulate our brother

Offer their Prayers and Best Wishes to

on the occasion of his ordination to the sacred priesthood.

Rev. John Fredy Triana-Beltran, CO Rev. David E. Keyes Rev. Thomas W. Lanza Rev. Gustavo Andres Rodriguez-Perez Rev. Gilbert Z. Starcher

On Your Ordination to the Priesthood of our Lord Jesus Christ

May the Lord Bless you for your faithful service.

Rev. John Fredy Triana Beltran, C.O. Ad multos annos!

25 ORDINATION

‘Great Amen’

Father David E. Keyes, center, is shown during the Eucharistic Prayer at his first Mass Aug. 23 at St. Magdalen de Pazzi Church, Flemington. — Monika Szmul photo

Giving Thanks In a screenshot, Father Gilbert Z. Starcher, standing, thanks clergy and faithful who helped him on his journey to the priesthood at the closing of his first Mass, which was livestreamed from St. Ann Church, Hampton.

Glory to God Father Gustavo Andres RodriguezPerez, principal celebrant, elevates the Body of Christ at a Mass of Thanksgiving for him at St. Thomas the Apostle Church, Old Bridge.

— Karen Leyendecker photo

Congratulations on your Ordination, Rev. Gustavo Andres Rodriguez-Perez

The parish of St Thomas the Apostle

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

May our Lord continue to bless you in your ministry.

26 ORDINATION

Sacred Rite Father Thomas W. Lanza, center, is shown during the consecration at the first Mass he celebrated as a priest Aug. 22 at St. Augustine of Canterbury Church, Kendall Park. â&#x20AC;&#x201D; Barbara Corio photo

Spiritual Brothers Oratorian Father John Fredy Triana-Beltran, center, poses with fellow members of the Congregation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri, Raritan Borough, after he celebrated his first Mass as a priest Aug. 23 at Holy Trinity Church, Bridgewater. From left: Oratorian Father Kevin P. Kelly, Oratorian Father Jeffrey M. Calia, Oratorian Father Peter R. Cebulka, Oratorian Father Thomas A. Odorizzi and seminarian Steven Bolton.

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

â&#x20AC;&#x201D; photo courtesy of the Congregation of the Oratory of St. Philip Neri

Top of page, a casket holding the remains of Father J. William Mickiewicz is carried from St. John Neumann Church after a funeral Mass. Center left, Father Abraham Orapankal raises the chalice during the consecration. Above, a mourner kneels next to the casket after the Mass of Commemoration. — Ed Koskey Jr. photos Parish, Hampton, and simultaneously asked to found a parish in Califon. After years of celebrating Mass at local churches, ground was broken in 1988 for a new church. The first Mass was celebrated there Dec. 1, 1990. On the diocesan level, Father Mickkiewicz served as chaplain of the Christian Family Movement; director of the Amboy area Catholic Youth Organization; dean of the Round Valley Deanery and a member of the Pastors Training Program and Priests’ Council in both Trenton and

Metuchen. He retired from active ministry in 2012, but continued to minister, especially at St. Matthias Parish. Father Mickiewicz is survived by his sister, Suzanne Mickiewicz-Jarusiewicz of Old Bridge; and nieces and nephews. Interment was at New Calvary Cemetery, Parlin. Arrangements were handled by Gleason Funeral Home, Somerset. Contributions in Father Mickiewicz’s name may be made to St. Jude’s Children’s Hospital at www. stjude.org

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

CALIFON — Sunlight poured through the windows of St. John Neumann Church Aug. 17 as its founder returned for a final time. At the foot of the altar, surrounded by sunflowers, a casket covered by a quilted pall fashioned by parishioners’ hands held the remains of Father J. William Mickiewicz. Father Michiewicz, who died Aug. 13 at the age of 83, was St. John Neumann Parish’s founding pastor and spiritual guide for more than 25 years. “Father Bill wanted his funeral to be a day of celebration and prayer,” said Father Abraham Orapankal, principal celebrant of the Funeral Mass who was Father Mickiewicz’s successor. Concelebrants with Father Orapankal, pastor, St. Matthias Parish, Somerset, included Father Richard M. Rusk, pastor, St. John Neumann Parish; and Father Leonard F. A. Rusay, pastor, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Whitehouse Station. Msgr. Gregory E.S. Malovetz, pastor, St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Skillman, gave the homily. Recalling that St. John Neumann and St. Charles Borromeo parishes were built around the same time, Msgr. Malovetz described long conversations the two pastors had on their spiritual homes’ mission and ministries. He said Father Mickiewicz, urged others to never forget where their treasure and heart lay. “Jesus would teach the disciples outdoors and see the light of the sun reflected in their faces. Father Bill was a man of faith whose face always reflected the light of Christ. He had a voice, a vision and a vocation,” Msgr. Malovetz said. “Bill’s was a prophetic voice, it reminded us of God’s grace,” he added. “He believed the parish should not only be beautiful, but a community to call home. He made the Gospel relevant and real.” Quoting the parish’s patron saint, Msgr. Malovetz noted, “St. John Neumann said, ‘Everyone who breathes has a mission. God creates everyone for a purpose.’ “Bill’s heart was always that of a good and faithful priest.” He urged the congregation to “create a Church alive and vibrant. It is our purpose and our vocation. The story of Father J. William Mickiewicz has been told. What a story it was. Peace to his spirit.” At a Mass of Commemoration Aug. 16, Father Rusk presided. He told the parishioners, “We come together as one family tonight — Father Bill’s family. He served here for so many years as the founding pastor. We come together our hearts filled with sorrow at this loss but yet in the hope of the resurrection that one day Jesus Christ may wipe every tear from our eyes and we will know a great celebration of the great Easter in which all of our loved ones will be reunited praising God and loving one another.” The homily was given by Father Mickiewicz’s longtime friend, Father Chester H. Carina, pastor, Most Holy Redeemer Parish,

Old Bridge. Father Carina noted that his friend was ordained during the turbulent times of the Second Vatican Council and his first years were not easy. He said that just as Vatican II acknowledged that ministry in a contemporary and secular world has its challenges, the Council also challenged the priests to do their best to apply the truth of the Gospel to the concrete circumstances of life. “Bill not only embraced that kind of thinking in the style of his preaching, it was reflected in the way he approached both ministry and life itself,” said Father Carina. “The mystery and wonder of the human person was where Bill knew he would discover Christ. He immersed himself in counseling for a number of years because he knew that having a greater self-understanding would lead him to have a more fruitful ministerial approach to the people that the Church entrusted to his care,” he added. Reflecting on the evening’s Gospel from Luke, chapter nine, Father Carina focused on the passage where Jesus said, “Give them some food yourself.” “Jesus gave the blessed food to the disciples and they in turn set it before the crowd,” Father Carina said. “In feeding us, his people, the Lord does so through the mediation of his disciples. And that is how Bill viewed his priestly ministry and how he understood his whole life. His was a minister of mediation, an instrument through which Christ encounters a person and the person encounters Christ.” Born in New Brunswick as one of two children of the late Margaret Mark Dill and Leo Mickiewicz, Father Mickiewicz attended Our Lady of Victories School, Sayreville; and St. Mary High School, South Amboy. A visit by a Graymoor friar during his eighth grade, as well as encouragement by parish priests during his senior year inspired him to pursue the priesthood. Father Mickiewicz graduated from St. Charles College in Maryland and St. Mary’s seminary in Baltimore. He later earned a master’s degree in theology at Princeton Theological Seminary; certification in pastoral counseling at Princeton seminary’s Trinity Counseling Center, and a master’s degree in Pastoral Counseling at the New York Theological Seminary. Father Mickiewicz once said in a story in “The Catholic Spirit” that counseling was his forte; it was about “understanding” and “listening” to people’s struggles. Studying counseling helped him “to implement the kinds of things the Second Vatican had asked for.” Father Mickiewicz was ordained to the priesthood by Bishop George W. Ahr ordained at St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton, May 26, 1962. He served as parochial vicar at Blessed Sacrament Parish, Trenton; Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish, Middlesex; St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park; St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Port Reading, and St. Matthias Parish, Somerset. In 1982, Father Mickiewicz was appointed pastor of St. Ann

OUR DIOCESE

By Christina Leslie Correspondent

Priest for 55 years laid to rest after funeral liturgies

OUR FAITH

Women deacons?/Receiving Communion? Q

Pope Francis

AUDIENCE

Sejptember 6, 2020

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

A few years back. Pope Francis set up a commission to study the feasibility of permitting women to become permanent deacons. Has that commission made a recommendation to the pope, and where does the matter lie now? (Personally, I think that women deacons are long overdue, and this pope could make history by opening the door.) (Albany, N.Y.)

Dear Brothers and Sisters, Good morning, The crisis we are living due to the pandemic is affecting everyone; we will emerge from it for the better if we all seek the common good together; otherwise, we will emerge for the worse. Unfortunately, we see partisan interests emerging. For example, some would like to appropriate possible solutions for themselves, as in the case of vaccines, to then sell them to others. Some are taking advantage of the situation to instigate division: by seeking economic or political suffering of others; they pass by and go their own way (cf. Lk 10:30-32). They are the devotees of Pontius Pilate, washing their hands of the suffering of others. The Christian response to the pandemic and to the consequent socio-economic crisis is based on love, above all, love of God who always precedes us (cf. 1 Jn 4:19). He loves us ﬁrst. He always precedes us in love and in solutions. He loves us unconditionally and when we welcome this divine love, then we can respond similarly. I love not only those who love me — my family, my friends, my group — but also those who do not love me, I also love those who do not know me and I also love those who are strangers, and even those who make me suffer or whom I consider enemies (cf. Mt 5:44). This is Christian wisdom, this is the attitude of Jesus. And the highest point of holiness, let’s put it that way, is to love one’s enemies, which is not easy. Certainly, to love everyone, including enemies, is difﬁcult. I would say it is an art! But an art that can be learned and improved. True love that makes us fruitful and free is always expansive and inclusive. This love cares, heals and does good. Often, a caress does more good than many arguments, a caress of pardon instead of many arguments to defend oneself. It is inclusive love that heals.

An Act of Hope Lord God, I hope by your grace for the pardon of all my sins and after life here to gain eternal happiness because you have promised it who are inﬁnitely powerful, faithful, kind and merciful. In this hope I intend to live and die. Amen.

Question Corner By Father Kenneth Doyle You are correct that in 2016, Pope Francis, with the encouragement of the International Union of Superiors General of religious orders of women, created a commission to study the historical facts about women referred to as deaconesses in the New Testament and the role of women deacons in the early Church. That group reached varying points of view and came to no deﬁnitive conclusion as to whether women had ever been ordained sacramentally. Speaking with journalists on the papal plane returning to Rome from Bulgaria in May 2019, Pope Francis indicated

the issue would need further study. In April 2020, Pope Francis established a new “Study Commission on the Female Diaconate,” prompted in part by the 2019 Synod of Bishops for the Amazon, which had suggested that the question of women deacons be revisited, given the shortage of priests in the region. (Deacons perform many of the functions of priests — including presiding at weddings, baptisms and funerals — though they are not permitted to celebrate Mass.) This new commission does not appear to be limited to an examination of the early church, as was the 2016 study group.

fession if you think this way. Even worse, you are helping to spread disrespect for almighty God. You are a sad, sad man — if you are even worthy of that title. (City and state withheld)

A few months back, you answered a question about whether to stand or kneel when receiving Communion. You said the decision is left to national conferences of bishops and that in the United States, the suggested posture is standing, although those who prefer to kneel may do so. You added that your own pastoral inclination is to say, “Why should it matter?” Well, my view is that it matters more than your own little brain can obviously comprehend. You are receiving the body and blood, soul and divinity of your Creator the King of Kings and Prince of Peace. You are in the wrong business, Father. You have no supernatural faith and should step away from the priesthood and ﬁnd another pro-

I run this letter to illustrate how strongly some Catholics can feel about their beliefs and their choice of devotional practices. (It also shows that thick skin might be an asset when writing a column of this sort!) It may help to keep in mind what Pope Francis said at a weekly audience in March 2018. He said that Catholics receiving the Eucharist should do so with reverence, whether standing or kneeling. The pope explained that the preferred posture for reception is left to the bishops of a country but noted that the essential thing is that one’s mind and heart should be directed to the Lord. “After Communion,” Pope Francis suggested, “silence, silent prayer helps us treasure in our hearts the gift which we have received. To slightly extend that moment of silence, speaking to Jesus in our hearts, helps us a great deal, as does singing a psalm or hymn of praise.” “Each time we receive Communion,” the pope said, “we resemble Jesus more,” stripping away our selﬁshness. Questions may be sent to Father Kenneth Doyle at askfatherdoyle@gmail.com and 30 Columbia Circle Dr., Albany, NY 12203

words, the form, and the matter, the objects, that we use. “That means we have to do it in the way the Church tells us to do it. We can’t use Mountain Dew or milk instead of water, and we can’t use other words, like ‘I baptize in the name of the Creator’ or ‘We baptize’ instead of the words the Church gives us.” And the Church gives us the words “I baptize” to signify that the person administering the sacrament is standing in the place of Christ — from whom we receive this grace — not in the place of the people gathered there, or the members of that parish, or the whole Christian community. When the priest discovered, via the video recording of the ceremony, what had occurred, he notiﬁed the archdiocese which determined that, because he was not a baptized Christian, he was not validly ordained, and the sacraments he had administered up till then — excepting baptism, which does not require ordination — were similarly invalid. The priest has since received all the sacraments, including ordination, and the archdiocese is trying to locate people for whom he had administered sacraments. I don’t know what the deacon had in mind when he departed from the words contained in the Order of Baptism, but my guess is that he was trying to say something about the relationship between the child being baptized and the whole Church. When I administer the sacrament, I enthusiastically welcome the people who

have assembled for the ceremony, and I tell them that they play an important part in what is about to occur, because the child is going to be baptized into a community — that this isn’t a private event that belongs in some room hidden from view, but rather the beginning of the child’s life as a member of the Body of Christ. You, I tell the people assembled there, are witnessing this on behalf of that community, and you are invited to accompany this child on a journey of faith. The ritual itself reflects on this, telling the parents and godparents, “This community rejoices with you, for today the number of those baptized in Christ will be increased, and we offer you our support in raising your children in the practice of the faith.” And again, the celebrant asks God to “bless his faithful here present, that always and everywhere they may be active members of his people.” A baptism ceremony is an excellent opportunity to remind folks of the part they are called to play in the life of the Church, not only on this occasion and in this church, but every day and everywhere. And it’s also an excellent opportunity to remind folks that Jesus Christ is present in the Church, not figuratively but literally, and that it is he who says, “I baptize,” and he who confers the grace that fortifies this child and all of us for life as his disciples. Deacon Paolino exercise his ministry at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Whitehouse Station

Baptisms remind faithful of their role When I was an altar server back in the Bronze Age, the baptismal font in our church was in a separate room.

This was a rather severe-looking chamber with no sense of celebration about it, and I’m sure that most people who attended that church never saw that room unless they were attending a baptism. I was reminded of this recently when I read about the priest in the Archdiocese of Detroit who learned that his own baptism, 30 years ago, was invalid because the deacon had not used the words in the ritual. Speciﬁcally, the deacon said, “We baptize you” rather than “I baptize you.” In doing so, the deacon changed the meaning of what he was doing. An ofﬁcial of the archdiocese was quoted explained this, in an article in “America: The Jesuit Review”: “When someone is baptized,” he said, “it’s not just a symbol or recognition of something that’s already happened. It’s actually making a change in the person. Because the sacraments actually bring about an effect, we have to be very precise in both the

God’s superabundant mercy “For my thoughts are not your thoughts, nor are your ways my ways, says the Lord . . . as high as the heavens are above the earth, so high are my ways above your ways and my thoughts above your thoughts” (Is 55:8-9). The difference between the ways of God and the ways of humanity forms the basis of this Sunday’s Gospel teaching, the Parable of the Workers in the Vineyard. In this section of his Gospel, St. Matthew warns us that we must set aside some very ingrained human attitudes in order to see things the way that God sees them.

SCRIPTURE STUDY By Msgr. John N. Fell This teaching really begins with the section of St. Matthew’s Gospel, which immediately precedes this Sunday’s reading. The particular incident is the story of the Rich Young Man (see Matthew 19:1630). The rich young man would have been the envy of his people; he was obviously a good person, pious and dedicated to serving the Lord. The people of his day would have seen his sincerity as confirmed by his riches; Ancient Near Eastern society was inclined to view wealth as divine testimony that this young man was truly in God’s favor. St. Matthew abruptly dismisses this assumption when he reports that Jesus sent the young man away disappointed — in Jesus’ teaching, the man’s wealth was not a sign of divine favor but rather a heavy burden which could even be a threat to his salvation. Earthly riches are not necessarily an indicator of divine approbation/disfavor. This must have been a troubling parable for those people to hear. The next parable, told in this Sunday’s Gospel reading, presents a similarly disturbing scene. A property owner goes out at dawn to hire laborers for his vineyard. Significantly, he enters into an agreement with them “for the usual daily wage” (Mt 20:2), and then sends them to work on his property. He goes out again at noon, 3 p.m., and finally at 5 p.m., each time hiring additional workers for the day, promising to pay them “what is just” (Mt 20:4). At the end of the day, he sent his foreman to settle accounts with the workers. He first called the group hired at 5 p.m. and gave them a full day’s pay; he similarly gave a full day’s wages to those hired at 3 p.m. and at noon. When the group hired at dawn came forward, they supposed that they would be

Is 55:6-9 • Ps 145:2-3, 8-9, 17-18 • Phil 1:20c-24, 27a • Mt 20:1-16a Eph 4:1-7, 11-13 • Ps 19:2-3, 4-5 • Mt 9:9-13 Prv 21:1-6, 10-13 • Ps 119:1, 27, 30, 34, 35, 44 • Lk 8:19-21 Prv 30:5-9 • Ps 119:29, 72, 89, 101, 104, 163 • Lk 9:1-6 Eccl 1:2-11 • Ps 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14, 17bc • Lk 9:7-9 Eccl 3:1-11 • Ps 144:1b, 2abc, 3-4 • Lk 9:18-22 Eccl 11:9 – 12:8 • Ps 90:3-4, 5-6, 12-13, 14, 17 • Lk 9:43b-45 Ez 18:25-28 • Ps 25:4-5, 6-7, 8-9 • Phil 2:1-11 • Mt 21:28-32 Jb 1:6-22 • Ps 17:1bcd, 2-3, 6-7 • Lk 9:46-50 Dn 7:9-10, 13-14 • Ps 138:1-2ab, 2cde-3, 4-5 • Jn 1:47-51 Jb 9:1-12, 14-16 • Ps 88:10bc-11, 12-13, 14-15 • Lk 9:57-62 Jb 19:21-27 • Ps 27:7-8a, 8b-9abc, 13-14 • Lk 10:1-12 Jb 38:1, 12-21; 40:3-5 • Ps 139:1-3, 7-8, 9-10, 13-14ab • Mt 18:1-5, 10 Jb 42:1-3, 5-6, 12-17 • Ps 119:66, 71, 75, 91, 125, 130 • Lk 10:17-24 Is 5:1-7 • Ps 80:9, 12, 13-14, 15-16, 19-20 • Phil 4:6-9 • Mt 21:33-43 Gal 1:6-12 • Ps 111:1b-2, 7-8, 9, 10c • Lk 10:25-37 Gal 1:13-24 • Ps 139:1b-3, 13-14ab, 14c-15 • Lk 10:38-42

Google Image, Public Domain

feast – October 2

The concept of guardian angels, as developed in Catholic theology and piety, has biblical roots. The angel Raphael aids Tobit and his family; one angel interprets for the prophet Zechariah, while another guides Cornelius in Acts of the Apostles; and angels are called “ministering spirits sent to serve” in the Letter to the Hebrews. In Matthew, Jesus teaches: “See that you do not despise one of these little ones, for I say to you that their angels in heaven always look upon the face of my heavenly Father.” The Catechism of the Catholic Church says, “Beside each believer stands an angel as protector and shepherd.” Pope Clement X set this date as the feast of guardian angels in the 1670s.

Saints

SCRIPTURE SEARCH® Gospel for September 20, 2020 Matthew 20: 1-16a

Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle A: a surprise about wages. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle. KINGDOM VINEYARD STANDING NO ONE FIRST GRUMBLED BURDEN

LANDOWNER USUAL IDLE HIRED US RECEIVED ONE HOUR ENVIOUS

TO HIRE DAILY FOUND LAST MORE EQUAL GENEROUS

 T K W L G E N E R O U S T S R

F O N E H O U R

O L A U S U F C H O Y D H Y A L K V O J I

S K U A

R T

D L E

U V Y L

A Q N N E A D A E

E A N N N E D R U B D V L N G A N Y J O H C Z

L D D O J A Z M W M M E A

O U F R C H O N A C

K N M S U D E R

H E E

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

Sun 20 Mon 21 Tues 22 Wed 23 Thurs 24 Fri 25 Sat 26 Sun 27 Mon 28 Tues 29 Wed 30 Thurs 1 Fri 2 Sat 3 Sun 4 Mon 5 Tues 6

SUNDAY, SEPTEMBER 20 - TUESDAY, OCTOBER 6

Holy Guardian Angels

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

WEEK IN SCRIPTURE

paid more since they had worked all day. Observing the terms of their contract, however, the owner paid them only the regular day’s pay, that is, “the usual daily wage” to which they had agreed. This last group began to grumble that they had been treated unjustly. After all, they had worked for many hours while the others who had worked for only a small fraction of the time received the same reward. This situation begins to highlight the difference between divine and human justice. Strictly speaking, of course, all the laborers had been treated justly; justice, classically defined, is “giving to each person that which is his or her due.” Since the group that began at dawn had entered into a verbal agreement to accept the usual daily wage, they really should not have complained that the owner treated them unfairly. Yet their sense of fair play was offended by the owner’s generosity to those who had worked only a few hours. This highlights the key difference between divine and human justice. God gives to each person not only what they are due, but lavishly provides in abundance. The salvation that God bestows upon us is never something that we could earn; it is always a gift of God’s superabundant mercy. Out of his great goodness, the vineyard owner decided to deal generously with those who had worked only a few hours — they may not have earned the full daily wage, but be bestowed it anyway out of his concern for them. Since they had been willing to toil in his vineyard for however long, they received the fullness of his reward. This generous, merciful sense of justice is an encouragement and a challenge to Jesus’ followers of every generation. As a word of encouragement, this Gospel teaching comforts us with the revelation of God’s overwhelming merciful and generous way of dealing with his people. God gives each sinner opportunity after opportunity to turn toward him. Having done so, having turned away from our sins, we are assured of God’s eternal blessing. The challenge, then, is to adopt such an attitude of mercy in our dealings with others. Our God who is so generous with second chances and compassionate forgiveness calls upon us to be merciful and forgiving in all our dealings with one another. In doing so we approach the true measure of divine fairness here on earth — the perfect mingling of justice with mercy as is seen in Christ. Msgr. Fell is a Scripture scholar and director, diocesan Office for Priest Personnel

OUR FAITH

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time (A)

30 26 STEPPING FORWARD IN CHARITY STEPPING UP IN CHARITY

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STEPPING FORWARD

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Connections Program offers role models for youth ‘Champions’ to honor Catholic Charities Children extend care to military veteran in

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Charities, Julio Coto. “It required some to give us hope,” said Bishop James F. creativity to reach out to those hit Checchio. (908) 754-3663 , ext. "0" When Catholic Charities’ Child Care The pandemic and increase in The devastating coronavirus pandemic faithful friend is a sturdy shelter; he who hardest by COVID-19 while adhering Tues., Wed. & Thurs.: 10 am – 3pm of “A Site Supervisor Jenelle Clauson read to CDC [Centers for Disease Control unemployment have increased the 2020 caused the loss of countless finds one finds a treasure.” (Sir 6:14) Friday: 10 am – 2 pm and Prevention] guidelines. 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Valley, and Willow Grove Elcommunity among the of any amount will be most gratefully submit supportive mesa lifeforofyou. prayer, freely given ourgift. diocese Elementary basketball shareHatchery asociety meal. and Hill advice or School, support. TheHackettstown, program also hosts send t Kathy McCrystal said started as forces thatorshape for their received.” via live-chat during theshe event that Please accept thistofree It is a sagesementary School joined with Hatchery McCrystal spends about four hours quarterly mentor support nights. a mentor her twin boys teen- proven ability to Major II veteran and Purple promoteBill a White, sense of a World For War donations, sponsorship oppor- Heart will featurewhen testimonials fromwere a few for privilege you. Please accept thiswith freeyou gift.inItprayer. is a Hill and together they sent three large a week with the boys depending on what Jeanette Cullen, a member of St. — Bar-photo co to be united agers. She was paired with a boy close in of the people whose lives have been Catholic social teaching in the wider tunities and links to the Oct. 22 Virtual activities they plan. She looks forward to tholomew Parish, East Brunswick, where privilege to be united with you in prayer. age to her sons because she thought menenvelopes full of hand-made Valentine Gala premiere, go to diometuchen.org/ transformed by the services of Catholic community. her time with them and loves watching she serves as an extraordinary minister of toring would be awishes great wayto to engage “Through their charity, the recipi- champions. Questions may be directed cards and honorherWhite and to Be still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 Charities. them grow and mature into teenagers. They holy Communion and in its Society of St. own boys. She got muchthat more than she ents of the Spirit ofsupport Saint Francis AwardWhite by email champions@diometuchen. “It waslove imperative toabout Maj. anddetowe all reBe still and know that I am God. - Psalm 46:10 expected. bring and joy toour theproretired Marine. often talk to her their Vincent Paulare chapter, has beenchild supervi-care for The boy became are witnesses to Christ the Servant, just org or by phone to 732-562-2432. grams and services remain uninterPrayer Request: issues and sheofgives sor of theitConnections Program since 2000. distric school minded howthem important is to provide close to her family, “We arewhole so about theas cases, response “Insaid many we know Saint Francis to be, and Mantarro is director of diocesan rupted during the thrilled pandemic,” Prayer Request: whatever guidance she can. She sees the impact it has not only on the participating in traditions Somerset and recognition to those who have served _______________________________ actingweexecutive their work inspires us and continues Stewardship ` director Catholic received fromof the school district,” Mentors must unthe youth, but on the mentors and families. we put the like her in-laws annual New _______________________________ For more our rigorous country.” saidEveChild Care Service Area Director dergo screening “The program is not meant to replace the Year’s party, decorating _________________________ childhood back and background parents,Charities, but to give support,” said. “In child year, Catholic Dio- sheCharities’ theKrista ChristmasGlynn. tree and go“The staff and children interview Last _________________________ checks before they receive many cases, we put the childhood back in ingwere on an annual Easter egg in the child’s life cese of Metuchen provided affordable ccdom.org/chil so excited to send their love and training and continue to the child’s life by offering the fun activities hunt. She even took him on Adolescence is a vulnerable stage of family treatand/or psychiatric challenges. Youth by off ering the receive training after they or andher support thatanhisindividualized or her family cannot college tours with her own human development. Today’s youth and adolescents learn to improve soment plan. The program runs on Monbeging serving. give them.” sons. They grew so close activities and enhance are growing up in troubledfun times to Thursdays 3:45 p.m. to cial skills, coping strategies THE The program sponsors days Cullen treasuresfrom witnessing the lifethat when he aged out of with deeply troubling realities: drugs, 6:45 p.m. Transportation to and from for managing diffi cult situations and monthly group activities — changing impact that the mentors have on THE the program, she agreed to support that their gangs, illiteracy, available, Medicaid to bond usually in person, butwith they the the program youth. Sheissaid one child,and whose parents mentorviolence, his younger brothers abuse and are given the opportunity families cannot disease. There has never been so much is accepted. other youth and adolescents who unhave been held virtually bewere day laborers, came into the program and they now participate in freedom, so family muchtraditions information, or so derstand their challenges. Because thelaborer. pandemic, cause of the coronavirus — wanting to be aofday After services spending McCrystal give them. ” much danger. are currently provided primarily via Catholic Charities, Diocese of for mentors and the youth. time with his mentor, he realized other posjust like their brother did. —Jeanette Cullen is offering immediate open- telehealth. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen Through these trainings and sibilities that were open to him. He started Most of the activities Metuchen, recognizes To toparticipate, may be reages 9 toMcCrystal 17 in YPC. has to plan go to collegeyouth and become a busithat she does with the the boysdangers and ings for youthactivities, works to overcome these realities that Services provided include assessment byand anyone, including schools, also formed close friendships with other ferred nessman travel. He also changed his are simple. Because of the recent lockdown have been exaggerated evaluation, referral, linkage and outpatient inpatient treatmentors. diet to more providers, healthy choices. related to the coronavirus,by shethe takescurrent them for and coronavirus pandemic. centers, CMO, DCP&P, and theira services,are group therapy, Case managers in touch with men- ment For information about becoming a walk or buys them ice cream. They also follow-up The Youth Partial Care (YPC) parents. monthly family sessions, psychiatric tors two to fi ve times each month and are mentor, contact Jeanette Cullen at jcullen@ share her love of biking and hiking. SomeProgram provides group counseling to For more information, visit https:// evaluation and monthly medication available day or night by phone if they need ccdom.org or (732) 738-1323. times they want to visit at her house and play youth and adolescents who are experi- monitoring. www.ccdom.org/middlesex-partialencing serious emotional, behavioral, YPC provides each youth and his care-youth-adolescent. Correspondent

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT AUGUST 20, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

OurLady Ladyof ofTenderness Tenderness Our

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are not even mentioned in this section. osity, kindness, and sharing of goods; Rather, those we would consider “our they foster the mutual enrichment of enemies” are highlighted. The Cat- cultures” (ccc 1937). echism explains that “liberation in the In the next paragraph, the Catspirit of the Gospel is incompatible with echism explains: “There exist also hatred of one’s enemies as people, but sinful inequalities” (ccc 1938). Quotnot with hatred of the ing from the Second evil that they do as an As such, according Vatican Council’s Pasenemy” (ccc 1933). toral Constitution on the to Church teach- Church in the Modern At a glance, such teaching seems quite World, the Catechism By Father John Gerard Hillier ing, we are all radical. Rationale for continues: “equal digsuch radical teaching, “redeemed by the nity as persons demands St. Francis of Assisi (1181-1226) is a however, is based on the we strive for fairer sacrifice of christ, that name familiar to most of us, especially principle that “all men and more humane conthose who have a special devotion to have the same nature and all are called to par- ditions. Excessive him. Coming from a wealthy family, the same origin” (ccc economic and social prior to his conversion Francis was a 1934). As such, accord- ticipate in the same disparity between indisoldier and playboy. Once he began ing to Church teaching, divine beatitude: all viduals and peoples of following Christ, “honesty” became his we are all “redeemed by the one human race is hallmark, for both himself and others. the sacrifice of Christ, all therefore enjoy an a source of scandal and His ability to preach with care, thor- are called to participate militates against social equal dignity” oughness and persuasion made others in the same divine beatijustice, equity, human (ccc 1934). stop and reevaluate their relationship tude: all therefore enjoy dignity, as well as social with Christ. This was particularly be- an equal dignity” (ccc and international peace” cause he practiced what he preached, 1934). Quoting from the (Gaudium et Spes 29 § observing personally what he demanded Second Vatican Coun3) (ccc 1938). of others. Given the intensity of his cil (Gaudium et Spes 29 § 2), we are The final few paragraphs deal with example, many within and outside the told: “Every form of social or cultural “the principle of solidarity” which is Church claimed him as their model. discrimination in fundamental personal “articulated in terms of ‘friendship’ or Saints and saintly people like Fran- rights on the grounds of sex, race, color, ‘social charity,’ ...a direct demand of hucis of Assisi personified the principle social conditions, language, or religion man and Christian brotherhood... Soliput forth by the Second Vatican Council must be curbed and eradicated as incom- darity is manifested in the first place by (Gaudium et Spes, 27 § 1), and quoted patible with God’s design” (ccc 1935). the distribution of goods and remunerain the Catechism, that “everyone should Next, we are told that what we often look upon one’s neighbor (without any take for granted is that we all have difexception) as ‘another self,’ above all ferences from the moment we enter this bearing in mind his or her life and the world. These differences are to be unmeans necessary for living it with dig- derstood as being all part of God’s plan. nity” (ccc 1931). As the medieval Mystic, St. Catherine The principle of loving one’s neigh- of Siena (1347-1380), explains through bor extends to all people of all places her conversations between God and the according to the dictates of the Gospel. soul, represented by Catherine herself: In fact, the Catechism asserts, “the duty “I distribute the virtues quite diversely; of making oneself a neighbor to others I do not give all of them to each person, and actively serving them becomes even but some to one, some to others...I have more urgent when it involves the disad- willed that one should need another and vantaged, in whatever area this may be” that all should be my ministers in dis(ccc 1932). The next paragraph teaches: tributing the graces and gifts they have “This same duty extends to those who received from me” (Dialogue 1:7). think or act differently from us” (ccc The Catechism further explains 1933). Who exactly would be included it this way: “we are not equipped with in this group? Liberals? Conservatives? everything we need for developing our Democrats? Republicans? People from bodily and spiritual life. We need othother cultures? The rich or the poor? ers [because]...talents are not distributed The over-educated? The under-educat- equally” (ccc 1936). On the positive ed? Persons with disabilities? Those and side, “these differences encourage and Meeting all the state’s Family Placement, others included among my fiCare rst thoughts often oblige persons to practice gener-

Journey of Faith

tion for work” (ccc 1939-40). While promoting and acknowledging that “socio-economic problems can be resolved only with the help of all the forms of solidarity” (ccc 1941), the final paragraph in this section of the Catechism concludes that “the virtue of solidarity goes beyond material goods. In spreading the spiritual goods of the faith, the Church has promoted, and often opened new paths for, the development of temporal goods” (ccc 1942). Then, quoting from Pope Pius XII, we are told: “For two thousand years this sentiment has lived and endured in the soul of the Church, impelling souls then and now to the heroic charity of monastic farmers, liberators of slaves, healers of the sick, and messengers of faith, civilization, and science to all generations and all peoples for the sake of creating the social conditions capable of offering to everyone possible a life worthy of man and of a Christian” (ccc 1942). Isn’t this most appropriate during these days of hope that are equally mixed with sadness and wonderment? And, isn’t this something that we should all aspire to and pray for until we are able to put this coronavirus matter behind us...for good? Father Hillier serves as Director of the Diocesan Office of the Pontifical Missions, the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Censor Luborum

FAITH ALIVE

Article 142 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series Paragraphs 1928 -1942

Loving one’s neighbor extends to all people of all places

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Below, Father David V. Skoblow, administrator, Our Lady of Mount Virgin Parish, Middlesex, gives a blessing to Chief Thomas Cicerelle (left) and Lt. John Kaufmann at the Washington Township Police Department, Warren County, Sept. 3. Left, Father Skoblow poses with Kaufmann (left), Officer Dallas Overko (back row) and Cicerelle (right) and members of parishes in the diocese who have been praying for police officers and visiting stations in the western part of the state. Father Skoblow was asked to accompany the group to Washington because he is the diocesan liaison to the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, which the department covers. —photos courtesy of Father David V. Skoblow

FISCAL YEAR 2020-2021 COUNTY WIDE PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT PLEASE NOTE:

Form 276 Revised 05/2020

This release must be used in its entirety since it meets all federal regulations. The portions referring to breakfast, snacks or milk should be deleted, if not applicable. Fill in all blanks with the appropriate information.

FISCAL YEAR 2020 PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT FOR USE BY DIOCESE OFFICES OF NEW JERSEY The

School announced today that low cost, nutritious school lunches and/or breakfasts and/or milk are

The Dioceseavailable of Metuchen announced today that low cost, nutritious school lunches and/or breakfasts and/or milk are available to all to all children enrolled in the school. In addition, meals, snacks and/or milk will be provided free or at a children enrolled the school. In children addition, meals, snackswhose and/or milkincome will beareprovided freethose or atshown a greatly reduced price to children greatlyinreduced price to from households gross at or below for their household from households grossscale income are Applications at or belowforthose for their household size are on the scale below. size onwhose the income below. Free shown and Reduced Price School Meals sentincome to the households of Applications for Free and allReduced School are sent to the households of all children enrolled in the school districts. children Price enrolled in the Meals school districts. EFFECTIVE FROM JULY 1, 2020 TO JUNE 30, 2021 (As announced by the United States Department of Agriculture) HOUSEHOLD SIZE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Each Additional Household Member

FREE MEALS OR MILK Annual Monthly

Twice per Month

Every Two Weeks

Weekly

16,588

1,383

692

638

319

212,412

1,868

934

862

431

28,236

2,353

1,177

1,086

543

34,060

2,839

1,420

1,301

655

39,884

3,324

1,662

1,534

767

45,708

3,809

1,905

1,758

879

51,532

4,295

2,148

1,982

991

57,356

4,780

2,390

2,206

1,103

5,824

483

243

224

112

HOUSEHOLD SIZE

1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 Each Additional Household Member

REDUCED PRICE MEALS Annual

Monthly

Twice per Month

Every Two Weeks

Weekly

23,606

1,968

984

908

454

31,894

2,658

1,329

1,227

614

40,182

3,349

1,675

1,546

773

48,470

4,040

2,020

1,865

933

56,758

4,730

2,365

2,183

1,092

65,046

5,421

2,711

2,502

1,251

73,334

6,112

3,056

2,821

1,411

81,622

6,802

3,401

3,140

1,570

8,288

691

346

319

160

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Application forms are at available at the school’s at youra child’s school. Applications can be submitted at any new LEA, either at the beginning of the new school year or during Application forms are available the school’s websitewebsite and atand your during the school year. If a household becomes or themonths, household or income duringto use the former the summer thesize new LEA is changes encouraged child’s school.timeApplications can be submitted at any member time during the unemployed the school year, parents are encouraged to contact the school so that all children receive the proper benefits. For the school LEA’sinformation eligibility listed determination from the previous school year and carschool year. officials If a household unemployed or the thefollowing to determinemember eligibility,becomes the household must provide on the application: names of all ryover the child’s status. Once determinations household size or income changes duringincome the school parents household members; household receivedyear, by each household member; type of eligibility income; frequency of income such as are completed, school officials are required to security verify three percent are encouraged to contact schooltwice so athat all orchildren weekly, every twotheweeks, month monthly;receive and thethe signature and last four digits of the social number of an of the approved adultFor household member certifying the information provided information by parents on the free andThe reduced priceprovided applications on file. For additional information, proper benefits. the school officials to that determine eligibility, the is correct. application kept confidential and willlisted be used for determining eligibility. contact your child’s school. household must providewillthebefollowing information on only the appli-

cation: names of all household members; household income received In accordance with Federal civil rights law and U.S. Department of Foster children, Head Start enrollees, homeless, migrant and runaway children, as defined in 7 CFR 245.2, are categorically eligible for by each household member; type of income; frequency of income such Agriculture (USDA) civil rights regulations and policies, the USDA, free meals or free milk. Households receiving assistance under NJ SNAP or Temporary Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) for their Agencies,notifies offices, employees, and institutions participating in as weekly, every twowill weeks, twiceofatheir month or monthly; and theunless sig- theitshousehold children be notified eligibility for free benefits the and school that it chooses to decline benefits. or administering USDAif programs prohibited from discriminating nature and last four digits of theassistance social security an adult Households receiving under NJnumber SNAP orofTANF should only submit an application they are notare notified of their eligibility by a based race,participants color, national sex,may disability, age, or reprisal household member that thebyinformation provided iswith correct. specifiedcertifying date determined the school. Households children that are on certified in SNAPorigin, or TANF submit school mealprovided applications their children the abbreviated indicated onfor theprior schoolcivil mealrights application andininstructions. WICor activity activity any program The information byforparents on theusing application will beinformation kept orasretaliation participants may also for Free and Reduced Price meals.conducted Parents/guardians should contact their child’s school for more or funded by USDA. confidential and will be used onlybeforeligible determining eligibility. information. Foster children, Head Start enrollees, homeless, migrant and runaway Persons with disabilities who require alternative means of communifordays program information (e.g. Braille, children, as defined in 7 will CFRadvise 245.2, are categorically for within free 10cation The school parents of their child’seligible eligibility working of receipt of the application. Any large parent print, audiotape, with the eligibility may contact the school to request informal conference or may appealthe theAgency (State or American SignanLanguage, etc.), should contact meals or freedissatisfied milk. Households receivingdetermination assistance under NJ SNAP by requesting a formal hearing. or Temporarydecision Assistance for Needy Families (TANF) for their hildren local) where they applied for benefits. Individuals who are deaf, hard will be notified of their eligibility for free benefits unless the household of hearing or have speech disabilities may contact USDA through the For up that to 30itoperating into the benefits. new schoolHouseholds year (or untilrea newFederal eligibility Relay determination whichever comes first) an Serviceis made, at (800) 877-8339. Additionally, program notifies the school choosesdays to decline individual child’s free or reduced price eligibility status from the previous year will continue within the same LEA. In addition, when information may be made available in languages other than English. ceiving assistance under NJ SNAP or TANF should only submit an children move to a new LEA, either at the beginning of the new school year or during the summer months, the new LEA is encouraged To file program complaint discrimination, application if tothey notified their eligibility by afrom specified date school useare thenot former LEA’sof eligibility determination the previous yeara and carryover the child’sofeligibility status. complete the USDA Complaint (AD-3027) determined byOnce the determinations school. Households with children that arearecertified are completed, school officials required toProgram verify threeDiscrimination percent of the approved freeForm, and reduced price found online file. For contact your child’s school. at: http://www.ascr.usda.gov/complaint_filing_cust.html, and at any participants inapplications SNAP oronTANF mayadditional submitinformation, school meal applications for their children using the abbreviated information as indicated on USDA office, or write a letter addressed to USDA and provide in the the school meal application and instructions. WIC participants may letter all of the information requested in the form. To request a copy also be eligible for Free and Reduced Price meals. Parents/guardians of the complaint form, call (866) 632-9992. Submit your completed should contact their child’s school for more information. The school form or letter to USDA by: mail: U.S. Department of Agriculture, will advise parents of their child’s eligibility within 10 working days of Office of the Assistant Secretary for Civil Rights,1400 Independence receipt of the application. Any parent dissatisfied with the eligibility de- Avenue, SW, Washington, D.C. 20250-9410; fax: (202) 690-7442; termination may contact the school to request an informal conference or email: program.intake@usda.gov. This institution is an equal opportunity provider. or may appeal the decision by requesting a formal hearing. For up to 30 operating days into the new school year (or until a new The following schools participate in one or more of the following eligibility determination is made, whichever comes first) an individual School Nutrition Programs: National School Lunch Program, School child’s free or reduced price eligibility status from the previous year Breakfast Program, After School Snack Program, Special Milk Prowill continue within the same LEA. In addition, when children move to gram. Perth Amboy Catholic, Perth Amboy.

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asked for help earlier. I was waving my hand and asked God to please help me,” he said. God answered his prayers - but not in the form of Jesus walking on water. “And then, out of the corner of my eye, I saw the tiki boat.” Aboard the floating bar boat were seminarians and priests of the Paulist Fathers from St. Joseph’s Seminary in Washington, D.C. The Catholic religious community had been on retreat nearby and were taking a break on a boat rented from Tiki Tours. A handful of the seminarians and priests helped the Tiki Tours staff hoist Macdonald to safety. Noah Ismael, one of the seminarians aboard the boat, told NBC Washington that it was “a movement of the Holy Spirit” that they happened upon Macdonald at the right time. Chris Malano, another seminarian,

told WNYT that as Paulist seminarians, they are missionaries, and “that day, that was our mission, to be present and to help someone in need.” Macdonald told WNYT that he took the rescue as a “sign from God”

that his life still has a purpose on earth. He also added that he found the rescue funny, in an ironic sense. Macdonald is an addict in recovery who counsels others through addiction recovery.

OUR DIOCESE

(CNA)- When Jimmy Macdonald found himself floundering in the waters of Lake George in New York next to his tipped kayak, he thought he might die. He had been enjoying a relaxing August day on the lake with his family, meditating and snapping pictures. He kept his lifejacket in the boat - he didn’t think he would need it, he told Glens Falls Living. But his kayak ended up drifting, and suddenly he found himself far from shore and from his wife and stepchildren. Despite the rough waters, he still thought he could make it back to shore, and so he waved on several boats that had stopped to offer help. But when his kayak tipped and his hastily-donned lifejacket came up to his ears, Macdonald knew he was in real trouble. “I thought I was going to die. I was absolutely powerless and wished I had

Seminarians, priests save drowning man who prayed for help

A tiki bar filled with seminarians and priests saved a drowning man.

— photo credit, Matt Armon / Shutterstock

The Office of Human Life and Dignity DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

Public Information & Education Outreach & Pastoral Care • Public Policy & Legislation • Prayer & Worship Jennifer Ruggiero, Director 732-562-4574 jruggiero@diometuchen.org

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

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

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

ning to Job's house. He told Job that the Sabeans had carried off the oxen and donkeys and killed the servants. “I alone have escaped to tell you,” A man named Job lived in the land of Uz. He was an upright man who feared he said. As the first messenger was speakGod and avoided evil. God had blessed Job with 10 ing, a second rushed in to report that he was the only one to children, thousands of survive the lightning head of livestock and a very large household, “Have you noticed from heaven that had greater than anyone in my servant Job?” struck and consumed the sheep and servants. the East. God asked Satan, A third messenger One day, when the rushed in. He alone had angels of God came to who had been escaped a raid by the present themselves to God, Satan came with roaming the earth Chaldeans, who had carried off the camels them. and patrolling it. and killed the servants. “Have you noticed The fourth mesmy servant Job?” God “There is no one senger had the most asked Satan, who had on earth like him, devastating news of all. been roaming the earth “Your sons and and patrolling it. “There blameless and updaughters were eating is no one on earth like him, blameless and upright, fearing God and drinking wine in the house of their eldest right, fearing God and and avoiding evil.” brother, and suddenly a avoiding evil.” great wind came from “Is it for nothacross the desert and ing that Job is Godsmote the four corners fearing? Have you not of the house. It fell surrounded him and his family and all that he has with your upon the young people, and they are protection?" Satan sneered. “But now dead,” he said. Job arose, tearing his cloak and put forth your hand and touch anything that he has, and surely he will cutting off his hair. He fell to the ground and worshipped. blaspheme you to your face.” “The Lord gave and the Lord has “Behold,” God said, “all that he has is in your power; only do not lay a taken away; blessed be the name of the Lord!” Job said. hand upon his person.” Although Job was devastated by Satan left God's presence and set the messengers' news, he did not sin or his sights on Job. One day, a messenger came run- charge God with wrong. By Jennifer Ficcaglia Catholic News Service

Artwork, courtesy of CNS

Read more about it: Job 1 Q&A 1. Who wanted to test Job? 2. How did Job react to his losses?

TRIVIA: What skin condition did Satan give to Job? (Hint: Job 2:7)

PUZZLE: Unscramble the words and arrange them to form a quotation from the children's story:

Got Braces?

het drol eb slebsed fo mane Got het

Braces?

Got Got Braces? Braces? Got

Marketplace

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Got Braces?

Trivia Answer: Severe Boils Puzzle Answer: the Lord be blessed of name the Blessed be the name of the Lord.

OUR DIOCESE

Kids Corner: Job does not lose faith in God despite challenges

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OUR DIOCESE

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St. Nicholas, White Plains NY: October 22-November 5 768 North Street, White Plains, New York Special Service-—Wednesday, October 28, 7:00 PM

36 OUR DIOCESE SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Attorney's fascination with National Shrine inspired detailed replica WASHINGTON (CNS) — For John Davisson, the past few months of the pandemic in Washington gave him more time to return to a hobby that began during his childhood: making Lego designs. He started with a few pre-made kits but decided to dip into his own creations — first a replication of his home and then a model of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception. Davisson and his wife, Amanda Erickson, live near the basilica, so the building has a special place in Davisson’s life. “I’ve always thought it was a really remarkable building,” he said. “When you come over the horizon of a hill in D.C., you see the basilica. Especially at night, it’s a really cool sight.” Fascinated with the building, Davisson said the idea to replicate the Basilica with Legos quickly came to fruition when he realized what an interesting project it would be. “There’s so much detail in the building; it’s such a remarkable structure,” he told the “Catholic Standard,” newspaper of Archdioce of Washington. In April, Davisson took several pictures of the exterior of the basilica and used a 3D tour on the basilica’s website to plan as much detail as possible. He used a Lego design software program, Studio, which includes a “full catalog of all the bricks and all of the colors that Lego has ever produced and you can use that as you would architectural design software to come up with the designs and order the pieces,” he said.

“I had done this with our house and really enjoyed the process of designing and building the model,” Davisson said. Designing the basilica took about one month on the computer program, Davisson said. Figuring out the scale of the replica and choosing what pieces Lego has made in the past that were available — were just some of the challenges that he said he faced, including making sure that the model would be stable. The Lego creation is modular, so the roof can be removed to view an interior replication. “You can separate it into individual segments,” Davisson said. “Part of the challenge was making sure that would all work out.” The dome of the basilica presented challenges in itself as well, mostly because of its shape in contrast with the average Lego shape. “The dome was especially hard because Lego is mostly a rectangular medium, and when you’re building an odd shape, that presents a lot of challenges,” he said. “That took several days of work off and on.” But even though the dome was one of the most difficult parts, Davisson said it ended up being one of his favorites. “The dome was really complicated,” he said. “The rose windows in particular also took quite a while to puzzle through and were delicate to assemble because they use strange connections to position Lego pieces in a radial fashion, but I think they came out really well, and they look really good in the final project.”

John Davisson poses for a photo with a Lego replica of the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington. — CNS photo/courtesy Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception via Catholic Standard

Davisson, a full-time attorney, said that he welcomed the project as a good creative outlet during a time when the social aspect of life was much quieter. “I enjoy the fact that it is a medium that has rules and limitations, and you have to work within those rules and limitations but also within that universe, there are endless creative possibilities,” he said.

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41 www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

CONTRACTORS

ACROSS 1 NT epistle 3 Sign of ___ 7 St. ___ Diego 9 You do this before the altar 10 Mother of Abel 11 Road to the altar? 12 “He is ___!” 13 Blend of oil and balsam 14 Commandment pronoun 17 Samson killed Philistines with the jawbone of this animal 20 Judah, for example 23 “We ___ to say, Our Father…” 24 ___ of Kings 25 Pharaoh refused to give this to the Hebrews 28 Number of sacraments, in Roman numerals 29 Catholic columnist Bombeck 31 Biblical river 33 “___ us, O Lord…” 35 Son of Japheth, in Genesis 37 Catholic cartoonist Keane of “Family Circus” 38 ___ of Faith 39 Easter flower 40 Wages of sin 41 Redemptorist community (abbr.) DOWN 1 OT historical book 2 Certain part of the Mass

Business Directory

EVANGELIZATION

LAW GROUP

Bob Stilo

3 4 5 6 7 8 11 12 15 16 18 19 21 22 25 26 27 28 30 31 32 34 36 37

The Feast of Lots is also called this Brother of Cain Commandment word Old Testament animal of sacrifice Fourth century pope Celestial being, to Jacques Paul preached in ___ Minor “On the third day he ___ again” Nahum follower (abbr.) ___ of David Christmas visitors First of all The Diocese of Des Moines is here Jesus told him he must be born again of the Spirit Catholics Ted Kennedy and Alec Guinness Abbr. for two NT epistles Catholic “Topper” star Carroll Sacristy Vestment worn under the alb Father of Gideon The Archdiocese of Niamey is found in this African country Members of this tribe of Israel carried the Ark (Deut 10:8) The Archdiocese of Edmonton is in this province “___ company corrupts good morals.” (1 Cor 15:33)

OUR DIOCESE

Crossword Puzzle

Answers can be found on page 39

PLUMBING SERVICES

OWEN S. DUNIGAN & CO., INC. PLUMBING & HEATING

“Specializing in Asphalt Paving”

State Lic. #7121 Certified Backflow Inspector Lic. #8714

STILOEXCAVATING,INC.

732.634.0630 WOODBRIDGE 732.381.4544 RAHWAY 732.494.5251 METUCHEN

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

James Juarez, 153 Grove St. Woodbridge, NJ 07095

908-754-0776 • Fax: 908-754-0425

REAL ESTATE

CONTRACTORS HVAC Mechanical Contracting

Thomas Pado President

heating air conditioning sheet metal fabrication building automation systems

www.tlpclimate.com

HEALTH CARE

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

GUTTERS

Gutters free estimates

Josef Bas, Owner 732.579.2490 Fully Insured

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

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

THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT SEPTEMBER 17, 2020

• • • •

AROUND THE DIOCESE

OUR DIOCESE

Prayer and Worship

Oct. 3, 10 a.m. – The World Apostolate of Fatima Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Washington, invites all to First Saturday devotions to honor the plea of Our Lady. The speaker and main celebrant will be Congregation of the Fathers of Mercy James Walling. The day will include confession, Mass and recitation of the Rosary. Divine Mercy Chaplet followed by Brown Scapular enrollment will be included. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. The Blue Army Staff is following all directions per New Jersey State health ofﬁcials. For details, call (908) 689-1700 ext. 210 or visit www.bluearmy.com. Oct. 13, 10:30 a.m. – The World Apostolate of Fatima Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima, Washington, invites to celebrate the promise of Our Lady of Fatima. The day will include confession, a Rosary Procession, a talk by guest speaker Father Luke M. Fletcher and Mass celebrated by Bishop Nicholas A. DiMarzio followed by Exposition, blessing of religious articles, Divine Mercy Chaplet and the traditional Fatima Farewell. Bring your own lawn chair or blanket. The Blue Army Staff is following all directions per New Jersey State health ofﬁcials. For details, call (908) 689-1700 or visit www.bluearmy. com.

Blood Drives

Sept. 27, 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. – Our Lady of the Mount Parish, Warren, will hold a

blood drive in Shepherds’ Hall. Donors must wear a mask. Donors will have their temperature taken and must be 14 days symptom free. Do not donate if you are currently on self-quarantine restrictions. Appointments are preferred but walk-ins are welcome if drive capacity permits. COVID19 testing will not be provided. To make an appointment, visit www.tinyurl.com/GiveBloodNJBS. Sponsor code is 08726.

Cancellations

The Carmelite Nuns of Flemington have regretfully canceled the Blessing of the Roses event. The sisters will be praying for all intentions during their Novenas.

PROGRAMS WEEKLY PODCAST

Am I Not Here? Produced by the staff of the Ofﬁce of Communications, “Am I Not Here?” – a weekly podcast – highlights the good news within our local Church and those working to minister to the people of the Diocese of Metuchen. New episodes are released each Monday and once aired they are archived. To listen to any episode, or to learn more, please click the links on the diocesan Facebook page or lighting hearts on ﬁre website

LECTIO DIVINA

11 a.m. Join faithful from around the diocese in a prayerful, virtual gathering of Lectio Divina every Monday at 11 a.m. Lectio Divina is a method for praying with

the Scriptures. As one reads and invites the Word to become a transforming lens that brings the events of daily living into focus, one can come to live more deeply and ﬁnd the presence of God more readily in the events of each day. Start your week with prayer, community, and hope. To get the most out of these sessions, please remember to have your bible readily available. For the Zoom meeting information, please email ssharlow@diometuchen.org

BLUE ROSARY GUILD

The Ofﬁce of Family Life is pleased to

Crossword Puzzle Answers I C O R M F A F C E C H R I T A O D A R E Y A M V E B L E S E T V R L I L Y

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

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

...recharge your soul

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

Lift Up Your Soul at the tranquil 150-acre Fatima Shrine. Host Your Retreat for Youth, Couples, Parish or Vocational Group.

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

LOYOLA JESUIT CENTER 161 James St. • Morristown, NJ 07960 973-539-0740 • Fax: 973-898-9839 Retreats for lay men, women, priests, religious; days/evenings of prayer. Groups planning their own programs are welcome.

www.loyola.org • retreathouse@loyola.org MALVERN RETREAT HOUSE 315 S. Warren Ave., Malvern, PA 19355 610-644-0400 • Fax: 610-644-4363 An oasis of peace set on 125-acres of wooded countryside. Retreats for men, women, families, youth, religious and clergy.

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

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

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

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

J U A N U N L G R I S E N O U S S M E N A K I N G L C I E O O R D A N G E I M G U E C S S R

www.wordgamesforcatholics.com

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

announce the creation of the Blue Rosary Guild. The purpose of the Guild is for community members of all ages to make pocket Rosaries for law enforcement ofﬁcers, providing them with support and spiritual strength and promoting devotion to the Rosary among all the faithful. All materials and instructions will be provided and a Zoom virtual tutorial will also be scheduled. Anyone interested should contact Cristina D'Averso-Collins, Director of the Ofﬁce of Family Life at cdaverso@ diometuchen.org.

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

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

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

908-647-0208 · www.stshrine.org

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

This month’s featured featured retreat this months retreathouse: house

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

610.867.8890 • stfranciscenter@gmail.com www.stfrancisctr.org

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

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

www.sjbsea.org

A place of peace, rest, illumination and closeness to God The Loyola Jesuit Center is a very special place. It has been used for retreats since 1927. Since then thousands of people have walked through its doors, seeking peace, restoration and Gods presence. In today’s busy and often uncertain world, such a place is needed more than ever. Our retreats offer people of all ages, all cultures, and all walks of life a place of peaceful silence where they hear the Good News of Jesus Christ, find serenity, refresh their soul and renew their life.

Since 1927

161 James St., Morristown, NJ 07960

973.539.0740 ∙ WWW.LOYOLA.ORG

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

SEPTEMBER Silver and Gold Wedding Anniversary celebration couples are invited to celebrate their 25th or 50th Wedding Anniversary by receiving a congratulatory message from Bishop James F. Checchio. Registration is required to receive the message by mail. Please register online at www.diometuchen. org/silver-and-gold-anniversary-celebration. If unable to access it online, please contact your parish secretary or amarshall@diometuchen.org. Registration will close on October 15, 2020. Although no fee is required, in the past many Jubilarian couples have given a donation of gratitude to the Church in memory of this special occasion. Donations of gratitude may be made online or by emailing amarshall@diometuchen.org.

Online Hispanic Heritage Mass, 7:30 p.m., Live and on YouTube https://diometuchen.org/ hispanicevangelization

9/28 10/12, 10/26

Young engaged and married couples Virtual Blible Study, 6:30 – 7:30 p.m. For details or to RSVP contact Christina at https://cdadverso@diometuchen.org

OCTOBER 10/1 – 11/12

10/4

10/10 – 10/29

10/22

erve as a brother? e... cations:

tuchen.org

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

The Life-Giving Wounds, an online retreat for adult children of parents who are divorced, separated, or otherwise not together. The retreat will take place once a week from 8 – 9:30 p.m. For information about speakers, topics, schedule, and cost click: https://www.lifegivingwounds.org/onlineretreat Respect Life Sunday – Life Chain, 2 – 3:30 p.m. (rain or shine) a peaceful and prayerful public witness of pro-life individuals standing for 90 minutes praying for our nation and for an end to abortion. Locations: Flemington: Route 31 to Main St., Contact: Jim Vargas, 908-391-1566; Great Meadows: St. Peter & Paul, 60 Route 46, Contact: Gail McMahon 908-637-4269; Somerville: Somerville Street & Mountain Ave, Contact: Kevin Dugan, 908-788-7736. For additional location contact Angela at https://diometuchen.org/hispanicevangelizationamarshall@diometuchen.org. Choices Matter – A Critical Life Conference Series, will address a variety of timely life and family issues such as parenting and raising kids with integrity, God’s Plan for sexuality, defending life in the black community, fighting the legalization of assisted suicide and will take a close look as the ever raging abortion debate. Each session will challenge you to reflect on why, in each of these areas, our choices matter if we want to build a culture of life and love. For more information, visit: https://diometuchen.org/choicesmatter Champions for Catholic Charities Virtual Gala, 7 p.m. See details see story on page 30. For more information click: https://diometuchen.org/champions

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

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

SELLING YOUR HOME? Call George Pantozzi, Broker/Sales Associate, Berkshire Hathaway NJ Proper ties for a complimentar y market analysis. I also buy homes. Cell: 908.392.2677; Office: 908.874.3400 ext 324. HELP WANTED

FREELANCE WRITERS The Catholic Spirit, official newspaper of the Diocese of Metuchen, is seeking freelance reporters to cover events and programs in the four counties of the diocese. Email resume and writing samples to: news@catholicspirit.com.

These classifieds really work! Our subscribers are great potential! To place your ad call: (732) 529-7934

HELP WANTED

SCREEN REPAIR

WINDOWS & DOORS - Installation of Fiberglass screens for your doors and windows. Pick-up and drop off services available. George & Sons: (908) 392-2677

H O LYA R T - R e l i g i o u s items and Church goods, made in Italy. w w w. h o l ya r t. co m ; +39 0522 1729582

HELP WANTED

“Come, Follow me.”

(Mark 10:21)

Is God calling you to serve as a priest, religious sister or brother? If you think maybe . . . contact the Office of Vocations:

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

VOLUNTEERS The Diocesan Office of Stewardship and Development wants your . . . • Superb organizational skills • Ability to do detailed work • Love for data management . . . to build our Heritage Alumni Database. 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

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 17, 2020

(Mark 10:21)

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

Talk with Tony, 12:10 – 12:50 p.m. Join Tony Varas, director of the Office of Worship for a 40 minute live online conversation. Liturgical topics will be chosen based upon requests from participants. Grab lunch and join in the discussion! There is no charge - but to foster a good discussion the number of participants will be limited. To register in advance to reserve contact: tvaras@diometuchen.org

9/25

Seven-Day Prayer Intention Candles!

The Sister Servants of Jesus invite our friends, old and new, to visit our charming Gift and Book Shop, featuring a wide array of religious selections for you and your loved ones.

RATES

9/22

1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling, NJ 07980

OUR DIOCESE

DIOCESAN EVENTS

e.”

The Shrine of St. Joseph GIFT & BOOK SHOP

40 OUR DIOCESE

Diocese-sponsored hospital offers coronavirus recovery treatment NEW BRUNSWICK — Saint Peter’s University Hospital has announced the creation of a specialized COVID-19 Recovery Program to provide comprehensive, multi-specialty treatment for individuals who were previously diagnosed (tested positive) with COVID-19. The program offers care to individuals who were previously treated for COVID-19 at Saint Peter’s, as well as those treated at other medical facilities, and those who tested positive and recovered at home. The COVID-19 Recovery Program will serve as a community-based support system and resource by providing expert medical care to COVID-19 patients as they deal with persistent symptoms such as shortness of breath, lack of energy, chest pain, cough, leg swelling, stomach pain and weight loss, among others. The goal is to leverage Saint Peter’s clinical expertise, working closely with community physicians and specialists, to manage the unique needs of post-COVID-19 patients in their journey to recovery. According to Dr. Amar Bukhari, chief, Pulmonary, Critical Care and Sleep Medicine at Saint Peter’s, “We remain vigilant in evaluating the long-term impact of COVID-19,

a syndrome that still has many un- gists, neurologists and others dependknowns. While some patients feel ing on the individual health issues. better sooner, there are others that are Saint Peter’s physicians will work experiencing lasting symptoms. To collaboratively with primary care complicate matters, physicians and spethese symptoms can cialists in the com“We are collecting vary in intensity and munity to develop duration from padata to gain a better individualized treattient to patient; what ment plans so that we’ve noticed is that understanding of the patients can achieve no two cases present health, with disease overall and optimal the same.” the goal of longSaint Peter’s its long-term effects. term recovery. COVID-19 Recovery Initial patient Program is mod- This data will support contact will be by eled on a continuum our outreach efforts to telemedicine after of care that begins which any appropriwith primary care not only better serve ate labs or tests will and navigates pa- at-risk individuals but be ordered. Subsetients to the specific quent treatment and specialist/s that may to educate them on follow-up will be be needed, dependin-person or virtual warning signs.” ing on their sympand determined on a — Dr. Nilam Srivastava toms. It is well-doccase-by-case basis. umented that many In addition, docuCOVID-19 patients mentation will be continue to experitimely and sent to ence lung, heart and the patient’s existbehavioral health issues, among oth- ing healthcare provider. ers, during recovery. Program spe“We want to help patients feel betcialists participating in Saint Peter’s ter by effectively managing any lasting COVID-19 Recovery Program will effects of the disease,” said Dr. Nilam include pulmonologists, cardiolo- Srivastava, chief, Division of Internal

Medicine at Saint Peter’s. “We are collecting data to gain a better understanding of the disease overall and its long-term effects. This data will support our outreach efforts to not only better serve at-risk individuals but to educate them on warning signs.” Patients participating in the COVID-19 Recovery Program can donate plasma, further promoting COVID-19 medical research, through the Mayo Clinic’s Convalescent Plasma Therapy Research program which is being conducted at 2,637 sites nationwide. Convalescent blood plasma donations are currently being accepted through the New York Blood Center and American Red Cross. “My advice for anyone who previously tested positive for COVID-19 is to schedule a telemedicine appointment to learn more about the program and its benefits. Don’t delay in seeking immediate help for any long-lasting effects. Patients can be assured that all information will be kept confidential and that we’re here to help them get better and stay better,” adds Dr. Bukhari. For information about Saint Peter’s COVID-19 Recovery Program, contact the COVID Recovery line at (732) 745-8552.

LIFE CHAIN

You are cordially invited to celebrate your 25th or 50th Wedding Anniversary by receiving a

Silver and Gold Wedding Anniversary Congratulatory Message from Bishop James F. Checchio

SEPTEMBER 17, 2020 THE CATHOLIC SPIRIT

Register is required to receive your message Please register online at: www.diometuchen.org/silver-and-gold-anniversary-celebration If you are unable to access, please contact your parish secretary or amarshall@diometuchen.org.

Registration will close on October 15, 2020

Although no fee is required, in the past many Jubilarian couples have given a donation of gratitude to the Church in memory of this special occasion. Donations of Gratitude may be made online or emailing amarshall@diometuchen.org.

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

Sunday, October 4, 2020 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! FLEMINGTON Flemington Circle Route 31 to Main Street Contact: Jim Vargas 908-391-1566

GREAT MEADOWS St. Peter & Paul Church 360 Route 46 Contact: Gail McMahon 908-637-4269 PERTH AMBOY 703 Amboy Ave. (in front of Alpine Cemetery) Contact: Msgr. Gordon 732-442-0512

PHILLIPSBURG St. Philip & St. James Church 430 South Main Street Contact: Colleen Wolters 908-454-9880 SAYREVILLE 855 Washington Rd. (at the high school) Contact: Rosanda Grau 732-619-4093 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

please email: amarshall@diometuchen.org

DIOMETUCHEN.ORG • CATHOLICSPIRIT.COM

For more information contact the Office of Human Life & Dignity, Diocese of Metuchen amarshall@diometuchen.org; or visit www.diometuchen.org