September 21, 2023

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Sometimes a hug is the best way to get started on the first day of Catholic school, when parents send their children off for another year of academic and spiritual growth. Pictured here are Rob McQuone and his son, Vincent McQuone, from Immaculate Conception School, Somerville. Back to school coverage begins on pg. 19.

Tara Smith photo

Religious sisters and brothers enrich the life of the Diocese

and I know she will be missed by many at St. Ann’s. She loved to visit the homebound and bring them Jesus and encouragement, too. At her farewell, the church and reception were filled with gratitude and love for her. May God bless her as she blessed us.

Flemington and seven contemplative Augustinian Recollect Sisters in Belvedere. They are all a beautiful force for holiness and goodness! Sister Anna Nguyen, SCC, ably and generously serves as our Diocese’s Delegate for Religious and has a great love for these religious.

religious sisters and brothers, for what they do in their varied ministries, but, more profoundly, we are grateful for who they are, and what they call us to – holiness – simply by their presence.

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

St. Mother Teresa of Calcutta once said that “holiness is not the luxury of a few, but a simple duty for me and for you. So let us be holy and through holiness, love one another as God loves us.”

When I was growing up, I was blessed to witness lots of different holy people who strived to live this way. In particular, I remember the women religious I knew in my youth. I was fortunate to have two aunts who were religious in my family.

We regularly had religious from their communities visiting us. In addition, I had much exposure to the religious sisters from the Catholic schools I attended. They were staffed by the Sisters of Mercy from Watchung and the Filippinis from Morristown. I know I would not be the person, priest or now bishop that I am without their influence.

Recently, we had some wonderful celebrations in our Diocese which highlighted women and men in consecrated life, people striving to live the type of holiness St. Mother Teresa encouraged.

Religious Sister Filippini Delores Toscano has officially retired and is moving to the Filippino Motherhouse in Morristown. Sister Delores has spent the last 23 years ministering at St. Ann’s Parish in Raritan. She is 98 years young! I believe she has been a Filippini for 84 years. She has an incredible life of service in Catholic schools and parish ministries.

She also often used to send me care packages of soup, food and goodies, especially during COVID when I was not out and visiting parishes as much and had to provide for my own meals. She was a constant source of encouragement to me,

On Sept. 7 we had the perpetual profession to the Sisters of Jesus our Hope of Sister Anna Palka at St. Mary of Mount Virgin Church of the Parish of the Visitation in New Brunswick.. Sister Anna is a recent graduate of Rutgers and was involved with our Catholic Student Center, part of St. Peter’s University and Community Parish.

The Sisters of Jesus our Hope are a diocesan religious community which serves here in our Diocese and has its motherhouse in Milford. It is a blessing to our Diocese to have a group of religious like this for service in our Diocese and who pray for our many needs! There were many young people from Rutgers present as Sister Anna took her final vows and it was another joyous event!

Most recently. we honored all the men and women in consecrated life in our Diocese with a Mass and luncheon at Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Piscataway. The jubilarians renewed their own vows at the Mass. What a joy to see so many of our religious together. When I was praying during Mass, I could not help but thank God for the many, many lives these good servants of our Lord have touched in their ministries thanks to their striving to live holy lives by serving their brothers and sisters.

We are blessed to have 23 communities of religious sisters and brothers present in our Diocese, with 202 sisters living or ministering here and nine religious brothers at Saint Joseph’s High School, Metuchen and at St. Peters University Parish/Catholic Student Center at Rutgers University as well as two consecrated virgins and an anchoress.

Included among the women religious are 11 cloistered sisters at our Carmel in

The Second Vatican Council reminded us in Lumen Gentium, that those in consecrated life “… through the profession of the evangelical counsels, shine for all the people of God the truth, that we have no lasting city, but seek the city that is to come.” Yes, our consecrated brothers and sisters remind us that we are made for more than the things of this world; for eternity.

Their commitment to Christ, is indeed a supernatural sign, a living witness to God’s presence in the world. So many of our people gain strength just by seeing them. Without saying a word their presence gives hope and confidence that there is more to life than meets the eye. Their witness reminds us that what is needed is the eyes of faith to see rightly the things

Our Diocese is so much richer and healthier because of the leaven of their lives, their dedication to the Poor, Chaste and Obedient Christ. I know you all know this, too, as the annual special collection for our retired religious is one of the largest we take up each year! Thank you for your generosity. Please join me in praying for our consecrated brothers and sisters, and for vocations to the consecrated life so that we have their witness and contributions in the future and know that they are praying for you and me too! Know of my love, prayers and gratitude for you, too, and please pray for me. God bless you all.

PUBLISHER Bishop James F. Checchio

ASSOCIATE PUBLISHER Adam J. Carlisle

EDITOR-IN-CHIEF MANAGING EDITOR Mary Morrell Father Glenn J. Comandini, STD 732-529-7985, ext2458 (732) 562-2461

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Felician Sisters Mary Michaelita Wiechetek (left) and Aquinas Szott were among the Diocese’s dedicated religious who joined Bishop James F Checchio at a recent luncheon and Mass in Piscataway. Over the course of their illustrious service, Sister Michaelita served as diocesan Chancellor and Sister Aquinas as Delegate for Religious. Gerald Wutkowski Jr. photo

History of the Sacrament of Reconciliation: Part 2

Private confession in the West became the only form of penance and no one questioned its validity until the time of the Reformation. According to Luther and Calvin, only Baptism and Eucharist were true Sacraments whose roots are in Scripture. Although Luther liked the dynamics of confession, because he felt that it might be good therapy for people to talk over their sins, he did not see this as a sacrament. Calvin did not like the notion of penance at all because it seemed to imply to him that one could attain justification by oneself. He feared that this bordered on semi-Pelagianism. In the face of this crisis, the Council of Trent made it a point to define not only the Canon of Scripture but also the seven Sacraments as instituted by Christ.

It is the Council of Trent, which specifically requires auricular confession of all mortal sins to a priest. Most theo-

logians agree that this was a step taken by the council in order to defend the belief of the Church that Christ gave the “power of the Keys,” i.e., the power to forgive and retain sins, to Peter and his successors. Nevertheless, the “confessional” as we know it did not adorn every corner of the Church until the 17th century. It was St. Charles Borromeo, the Bishop of Milano, who invented the confessional. This “booth” was to serve as the common space in which confessions took place. Prior to this, private confessions may have been in the sacristy, or in a corner of the Church but there was no “room” per se designated specifically for reconciliation.

From the Council of Trent up to the Second Vatican Council, no one, among Catholics, questioned the validity or fruitfulness of Penance. Unfortunately, after Vatican II diligently went back to the practice of the early Church, the Scriptures and the writings of the Fathers, the council fathers revised the Rite of Penance. The problem with this revision is the way the Vatican distributed it among bishops and priests without any explanation. All of a sudden, there was no longer one rite, but three. As in the early Church, penitents could now sit with the priest and talk about their sins, or, in the

style of Charles Borromeo, they could remain behind the screen. As in the early Church, confession could take place in a liturgical context, whence arose the Advent and Lenten Penance Services, or, in the Tridentine tradition, Catholics could show up for Confession on Saturdays. The most popular practice to priests and laity was the third rite, known as “general absolution.” Since the rites were distributed without explanation by bishops or pastors, most priests believed that any rite was allowed and, of course, if you were a priest in the early 1970s, with long lines of penitents, and few priests to help hear confessions, which rite would you administer? Naturally, rite number three was also popular among the laity, especially those who could vividly recall those embarrassing moments when a priest chastised them or brought them to tears. For both the priest and the penitent, the first rite, namely, individual confession and the second rite, a public Scripture service followed by individual confession were cumbersome. May I use an analogy? Why wash the car with the hose and dry it with the towel when there is now the option of the automated car wash, which does everything quickly, efficiently and with little effort on our part?

Celebrating the past – preparing for the future

Next month, on Oct. 14, we will open a Year of Preparation with a special Mass at 10 a.m. in our chapel.

Next year, our Community of the Carmel of Mary Immaculate and St. Mary Magdalen will celebrate the 75th anniversary of our Foundation. On Oct. 14, 1949, six nuns from the Morristown Carmel moved into a large old house in New Brunswick.

Sister Maryám of the Trinity, our oldest sister, is the only remaining nun of the group and her face still lights up when you recall that day. At 94, she is a living symbol of faithfulness and love. Of God’s faithfulness and love and of the fidelity and love of the nuns who gave themselves to him and followed his call to the Trenton Diocese.

One of our Carmelite Friars, on learning of next year’s anniversary, wrote to us, “Congratulations! 75 years of faithfulness to the Order, founded by Saint Elijah, the Prophet, its Rule of St. Albert, the reform of Our Holy Mother St. Teresa and Father St. John of the Cross. May God continue to bless you with vocations and a steadfast continuation of your faithfulness to our way of life!”

Our way of life is little known nowadays. One priest, on hearing about cloistered contemplative nuns, exclaimed, “I thought that went out with Vatican II!” Then there was also the permanent deacon in our parish, who after we had been living one mile from the parish church for 25 years, admitted, “I never knew you existed.”

Contemplative nuns live a quiet life. We don’t shout out our existence from the rooftops, but that doesn’t mean we should be invisible and inaudible.

Like all Catholics, we are called to be witnesses to God’s graces and love. Many people nowadays say that they are “spiritual but not religious.” Spirituality is the basis of our life. We are here to show that a deep spiritual life, a life of union with God, is not only possible but even exhilarating. And we do it in a totally religious setting.

Religion is spirituality shared with your brothers and sisters. Someone can be spiritual all by themselves, but Catholics believe in a God who is communion, a God who is spirit and who shares his spiritual life with us. Because God shares his life with us, we all share the same divine life, and we express that shared life in our actions. Those shared actions of divine life are religion.

We contemplatives are called to be witnesses that spirituality and religion

All too often, the priest who conducted a general confession and absolution service failed to tell the faithful that they should be properly disposed. They failed to inform the penitents should repent of his/her sins and resolve to turn away from the near occasion of sin. More importantly, they failed to spell out how serious sin required auricular confession individually, in the imminent future. In other words, the third rite required, though never explained, that anyone in mortal sin would still have to confess this grave sin, one-on-one with a priest, as soon as possible. In addition, when this rite was included in the compendium of rites, its primary purpose was to offer reconciliation in an emergency setting – for example, the boat is sinking or the plane is going to crash, or too many penitents showed for the Advent/Lenten Penance Service and there were not enough priests to hear their individual confessions. Needless to say, this rite would find more use on sinking boats and crashing planes than in the case of too many penitents and not enough priests – although my friends who are priests in the Northern Plains or in the Southwest often confront such situations. Father Comandini is managing editor of “The Catholic Spirit.”

can be joyfully and powerfully lived even in our present world. We here, at the Flemington Carmel, intend to do everything we can to make our witness to this truth heard and known as we prepare for our 75th Anniversary next year!

When I was a child, I saw the early “Peter Pan” movie, the Mary Martin one, not the Disney cartoon. The part I remember best is when Tinkerbell drank the poison meant for Peter and was slowly dying, her light getting dimmer and dimmer. The only way to save her was for the children watching the movie to proclaim their belief in fairies. “Clap if you believe in fairies!” And children all across the country clapped furiously to help Tinkerbell come back to life.

We contemplatives are far from dying, but we need your help to make our

message heard. Do you believe in the value of a life of prayer? Do you believe in the power of grace hidden in the everyday life of the cloister? Then join us in making our message known! We are planning various events for our Year of Preparation. Help us to make our voices heard! Visit us at our Monastery in Flemington, New Jersey!

Contact us on our website www. flemingtoncarmel.org! Write to us! Support us! Tell your friends about us! Spread the word that prayer to God is powerful! That living in his grace is a glorious challenge!

Clap if you believe in the Carmelites! Sister Gabriela of the Incarnation is a member of the Discalced Carmelites order in Flemington. Learn more at www. flemingtoncarmel.org.

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).

ANNUAL DIOCESAN MASS OPENS ACADEMIC YEAR, HONORS TEACHERS

By Deacon Patrick Cline, Correspondent

Bishop James F. Checchio was the principal celebrant and homilist for the Mass which was celebrated in St. Augustine of Canterbury Church, Kendall Park. Concelebrants included Father Jonathan S.Toborowsky, diocesan vicar general; Father Timothy A. Christy, rector, Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen; Rev. Canon Robert G. Lynam, pastor, St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, and a number of priests from the Diocese.

In his homily, Bishop Checchio recounted the journey of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton to the Catholic Church. As the founder of the first parochial school in the United States, she made a major contribution to Catholic education and, after her canonization as the first nativeborn American saint, she was named the patron saint of Catholic schools.

The Bishop reminded teachers and all those present, that they are “called to represent Jesus the teacher. Together we must show our young people something more than the world has to offer. And that is Jesus Christ. We need to have young people who know, Jesus, who love Jesus, who let Jesus into their lives: our world needs this, our country needs this.”

Bishop Checchio expressed his gratitude to the teachers for what they do for the youth of our Diocese, saying, “Where would we be without you, where would our young people be without you? Your efforts make a difference and we are grateful.”

Sister Barbara O’Kane, vocation director for the Religious Teachers Filippini – an institute of consecrated life devoted to Christian education – said, “This Mass with the Bishop was an inspiration and the start to a wonderful year in Catholic education.”

At the end of the Mass, Father Lyman thanked the Bishop for celebrating the Eucharist and marking the start of the Catholic School year. He also mentioned that the following Tuesday, Aug. 5, would be the 60th Anniversary of the opening of the parish’s school.

Following the Mass, the congregation remained in the Church to hear an address from Father Christy, who also thanked all the teachers for choosing to serve in this vital ministry and stressed that, in being present for the Mass, “we are being invited into greatness. There is no room for mediocrity, only greatness.”

In recognition and appreciation of the dedication and sacrifices of Catholic school educators, the Diocese of Metuchen officially began the new academic year with the celebration of Mass Aug. 31 for those who have made, and continue to make, significant differences in the lives of students and families across the Diocese.

Reverend Canon Robert G. Lynam, pastor, St. Augustine of Canterbury Parish, Kendall Park; Barbara Stevens, diocesan superintendent of schools; Joseph Diskin, associate superintendent of schools, and Filippini Sister Mary Louise Shulas, director of curriculum, were among those present for the Aug. 31 Mass which opened the 2023 school year and honored educators.

A crucifix on the altar serves as a meaningful focus for teachers whose mission is to teach as Jesus did.

us to be the best Catholic schoolteachers we can be.” Father Christy added, “Our parents, our pastors want only what is best for our children.”

At the close of his presentation, Father Christy quoted French novelist Leon Bloy: “The only real sadness, the only real failure, the only great tragedy in life, is not to become a saint. … How much will your students miss out if you don’t become a saint?”

Mass a “perfect way to begin the school year, to be in the presence of Jesus and to be inspired by the support of all the other teachers gathered.”

Isaac Howard and Daniel Spencer, both on the faculty of Immaculata High School, Somerville, believe the environment in a Catholic school has a dimension not found in other schools. Howard, who has taught in public, private and charter schools, believes, “Immaculata focuses

Bishop James F. Checchio, who was principal celebrant for the Aug. 31 Mass, asked educators, “ Where would we be without you? Where would our young people be without you?”

Reverend Canon Father Robert G. Lynam, St. Augustine pastor, and Father Jonathan Toborowsky, diocesan vicar general, were among the concelebrants of the Mass.

Lay and religious Catholic school educators from across the Diocese begin the school year with worship and fellowship in St. Augustine of Canterbury Church.

Teachers, administrators, and staff of Immaculate Conception School, Somerville, gather for a “family” picture following the Mass which recognized and honored Catholic educators.

Gerald Wutkowski Jr. photos

permeates the entire curriculum, not just the religion classes.”

Spencer acknowledged, “Hearing Bishop Checchio stress the value of a Catholic education reinforces what I have found to be true teaching at a Catholic school.”

Following the Mass and presentation, those present were invited to a breakfast reception in the school cafeteria.

Why did Christ institute the Eucharist?

By Father Timothy M. Eck II Special Contributor

“I received from the Lord what I also handed on to you, … For as often as you eat this bread and drink this cup, you proclaim the death of the Lord until he comes” (1 Cor 11:23a, 26).

The Old Testament Passover meal proclaimed the salvation of the Israelite people from slavery in Egypt and made them partakers in the covenant of Sinai. That is through their Passover celebration they entered into the singular historical event of the Passover and so also the covenant’s effects which were given in the Passover. This covenant was then handed on to the succeeding generations through their solemn (that is annual) commemorative celebration of Passover.

Their perpetual handing on of the covenantal meal was inspired by their hope in the fulfillment of that covenant, and the celebration itself served to reinvigorate their hope and fidelity to the covenant and the Lord. This dynamic of a covenant being sealed in a sacrifice and then perpetuated by later rituals is the way in which covenants are propagated in the Old Testament.

We see this in the covenant with Abraham, where God promises him land and descendants. Then this is confirmed with the dramatic scene of the sacrificed animals and floating torch; and finally

perpetuated by the ritual of circumcision.

Christ in the Triduum perfected the Passover covenant and founded a new and definitive covenant with all of humanity. This was sealed with his self-sacrifice on the Cross and ratified in his resurrection. The Spirit as Advocate bears witness to it. Humanity and God are eternally united in Christ’s nuptial covenant with us.

According to the Old Testament logic, this singular historical event must be handed on in a ritual which commemorates the event and enable future generations to become partakers in this covenantal consummation.

In the upper room Christ handed on

this repeatable ritual to the Church so that her members might commemorate and participate in his new and definitive covenant. This is what St. Paul received from the Lord and what he handed onto the community of Corinthians (and the other communities which he founded).

This is what the Apostles and their successors in an unbroken chain of succession for 2000 years have handed on: the way to enter into Christ’s Paschal Mystery, his definitive covenant with creation, wherein Christ as True Man ensures humanity’s perfect fulfillment of the covenant in perfect fidelity and obedience of the Father; and as True God dictates the terms

by which future generations enter into this covenant and sends the Holy Spirit to ensure the Church’s unfailing handing on of the celebration of Christ’s Paschal Mystery.

This commemoration which is handed on is one part the proclamation of the death of the Lord and in another part joyful expectation of his return. The Greek for proclaim is not simply a public statement of fact or a teaching concerning knowledge. Instead, it is the sacred declaration wherein this celebration we solemnly manifest the Lord’s mystery.

Through the power of the Holy Spirit, Christ’s new covenant is rendered present to us, is proclaimed to us, and we are made partakers in the eternal Trinitarian communion of persons. At St. Paul’s advice we proclaim this saving mystery daily, to perpetually hand-on and manifest Christ’s salvation and elevation to all. This will continue until the Lord returns, until the consummation of all creation.

Every Sunday, every time that we go to Mass, this is what the priest hands on to you. It is what he has received. He gives to you the Body and Blood of Our Lord. He gives to you the seal and means of entrance into Christ’s eternal covenant. He gives to you the promise and means of eternal life, eternal communion with the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit.

Father Timothy M. Eck II serves as diocesan director, Office of Divine Worship. His column is the fourth in a monthly series that focuses on increasing devotion to the Eucharist during the Year of Parish Revival.

Eucharistic Adoration: Doing is good; being is even better

By Sister Alicia Torres, OSV News

I am not totally sure how my parents felt when I told them I’d signed up for the 3 AM hour of prayer on Good Friday when I was 16 years old. Our parish had invited us to “watch an hour” with Jesus, and I certainly didn’t want him to be alone for one minute. There was only one small detail I’d neglected to consider: I didn’t have a driver’s license yet!

But I remember my father quietly driving me to church that dark New England night without any sense of tension, and to this day I have no idea what he was thinking as he watched from the back pew as I silently knelt before the altar of repose.

Admittedly, I was a rather pious child, and an equally zealous teen: anything I could do to be a better Catholic,

I wanted to do. If that meant kneeling before the Eucharist in the wee hours of the morning during the Easter Triduum, well, I was game.

Little did I realize, though, that as I kept Jesus company on that deep, dark night, he was not only planting the seeds of my vocation, but helping me discover a great secret: that while what I did for him was good, who I am in him was even better – a truth he longed to share with me.

Years later, I was in the midst of a crisis. As a young Franciscan sister, I had sustained a serious head injury, the trauma of which so affected me that I could do nothing. I lay in bed all day, and my only recourse was our daily Mass and holy hour, for which I somehow mustered the strength to be present. I went from running marathons, unloading 40 lb. boxes of chicken at our food pantry and writing research papers for my graduate degree to doing literally nothing.

I was very sick, and it was very hard. But in that God-permitted time of suffering, pain and isolation there was finally the space for Jesus to allow those seeds

planted so long ago to begin to bear fruit. Slowly, in prayer before the Eucharist and in the solitude of my room, I realized that I was never alone – not because our faithful German shepherd, Liberty, kept constant watch over me but because all around me and within me was the secret, silent, hidden presence of God.

So many years before, I had had a desire to watch one hour with him; now I began to understand that all my life, Jesus had been delighting in watching every moment of every hour with me.

Praise God, I recovered from my head injury, finished grad school, professed final vows in 2015 and continue to live and serve among the very poor on Chicago’s West side with my Franciscan community. I even ran another marathon in 2018 to help raise funds for our apostolate.

I have never lost the profound sense of gift that came of recognizing that Jesus is ever present to me. This confidence is renewed every day at every Mass, where Jesus’ passion, death, resurrection and ascension is represented for you and for me: this is his daily giving of himself,

completely. This gift of presence is also deepened during every moment of every holy hour I have the privilege to attend.

Because I have grown to see Jesus present in the Eucharist, I am more able to see him in my brothers and sisters – especially those most broken and lost ones. Jesus is ever present to me, and I long to be present to him. I am sure I would be lost without him, and yet with him, not only am I found, but I am truly home, and on my way home. I can’t even imagine what it will be like to enter the Kingdom one day, and realize what it means to watch, to be present, to be united with Jesus not just for an hour, a day or a lifetime but for all of Eternity.

Sister Alicia Torres is a National Eucharistic Revival executive team member and managing editor for the Heart of the Revival newsletter. She is a member of the Franciscans of the Eucharist of Chicago, and serves at the Mission of Our Lady of the Angels on Chicago’s West Side. She is a guest columnist for the Catholic News Service column “In Light of Faith.” —CNS photo/courtesy Loyola University Chicago

A priest prepares to distribute Communion at Pope Francis’ Mass for the feast of Sts. Peter and Paul in St. Peter’s Basilica at the Vatican June 29, 2023. —CNS photo/Lola Gomez

Knights resolve to support the National Eucharistic Revival

In his address to the 139th Supreme Convention, Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly called on all brother Knights to be Knights of the Eucharist and committed the Order to fully supporting the National Eucharistic Revival. In response:

Knights of Columbus are called to be Knights of the Eucharist

By Peter Jesserer Smith, OSV News

• The Supreme Council has developed resources to support this initiative, and the evangelization of all communities, including The Eucharist: Source of Our Healing and Hope, an inspirational and catechetical video about the gift of Christ’s Real Presence; videos explaining the significance of various portions of the Holy Mass; and resources demonstrating how to properly organize eucharistic processions which have been central to the revival; and

• As the revival enters its parish year, councils throughout the United States have stepped up to support the

ORLANDO, Fla. (OSV

News)

– With more than two million members, the Knights of Columbus are more intentionally becoming a spiritual vanguard of the Catholic Church, deepening their faith in Jesus Christ and evangelizing through charity.

In an interview with OSV News, held Aug. 2 at the Knights’ Supreme Convention in Orlando, Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly discussed how he sees discipleship of Christ at the heart of the Knights’ faith, charity and identity – and the personal difference he believes Knights can make on the Church and society.

“As Knights, our charity is grounded in our faith. It’s grounded in the vision of Blessed Michael McGivney to serve the widow and the orphan and those who are vulnerable,” he said. “So that relationship with Jesus Christ is the thing that will change everything.”

Kelly said he saw a great opportunity for the Knights to engage the “tens of thousands” of parishes they are involved in and deepen the faith formation of men which in turn motivates their charity that evangelizes and personally makes a difference in people’s lives.

Top: Supreme Knight Patrick E. Kelly calls the opening business session of the Knights of Columbus 141st Supreme Convention to order in Orlando, Fla., Aug. 1, 2023. —OSV News photo/Tamino Petelinšek, Knights of Columbus

Bottom: Nationally and around the world, Knights of Columbus play a role in strengthening Eucharistic faith in their parishes: regularly participating in Mass, organizing Holy Hours, leading Eucharistic Processions, and adding reverence to special liturgies as part of Fourth Degree honor guards. Knights, pictured at left, lead the procession for the June 24 Ordination of Father Jose Manuel Lim in St. Francis of Assisi Cathedral, Metuchen. —Mike Ehrmann photo

efforts of their pastors to host Eucharistic Adoration, Eucharistic processions, and other catechetical and liturgical events focused on increased reverence for the real presence of Christ in the Eucharist; and

• Next year, four national Eucharistic Processions will be undertaken to lead the faithful to Indianapolis from the four corners of the United States, with the Seton Path from the Eastern part of the country beginning at the tomb of their holy Founder at St. Mary’s Church in the new Blessed Michael McGivney Parish.

“I think men need to know that they have this God-given vocation and that being a Catholic man requires a lot,” Kelly said. “But if we live that vocation, it’d be tremendously fulfilling – to live for others.”

Kelly recalled, “On the day I was installed, I spoke of our calling to be Knights of the Eucharist … The more we devote ourselves to the Eucharist, the more we will understand what it means to be a Knight — to live a life of service and sacrifice for others and to live a life of true unity, centered on the ‘source and summit’ of the Christian life.”

Reflecting on the power of the Eucharist, Kelly said, “I think that turning toward the Eucharist helps us get in touch with who we are, and we understand better that we have the heart of a father. That God the Father gives us his Son, and it is through our relationship with him, through living in union with Jesus, that we develop this Eucharistic heart, a heart of the Father – that to me kind of ties it all together: what we’re called to do with our individual families, what we’re called to do as husbands and as fathers to our children.”

The Knights of Columbus has a long history of promoting Eucharistic Devotion, beginning in 1910 when two thousand Canadian Knights attended the first International Eucharist Congress. Later International Eucharistic Congresses, which included large delegations from the K of C, were held in Chicago in 1926, Philadelphia in 1976, Guadalajara, Mexico in 2004 and Cebu City, Philippines in 2016.

In the United States, the K of C organized back-to-back Eucharistic Congresses in 2002 and 2003 in Washington, D.C., followed by a third congress in Chicago during the Year of the Eucharist in 2005. These events drew thousands of Knights and their families together for a wide array of events centered on the Blessed Sacrament.

Story compiled from sources by Peter Jesserer Smith, national news and features editor for OSV News.

• The Knights of Columbus are fully committed to the National Eucharistic Revival in the United States and will support programs sponsored by our parishes and dioceses, especially Eucharistic Processions in the communities we serve so as to provide a special witness to the power of Christ’s Real Presence and the hope that it will inspire a new fervor in all of God’s people and an atmosphere of charity and peace in communities throughout the world.

Excerpted from the Knights of Columbus Resolution in Support of the National Eucharistic Revival.

‘Pride in Our Priests’ event unites clergy, Knights of Columbus

By Christina Leslie Contributing Editor

“We are always here to help and serve you,” said Knights of Columbus

N.J. State Deputy Raymond Sands to more than 300 clergy and Knights in the Imperia banquet hall, Somerset, Sept. 7 for the Knights’ annual “Pride in Our Priests” dinner. Sponsored by the Knights’ Metuchen Diocese Chapter, the gala event was an opportunity for both groups to break bread and reflect upon the integral roles they fulfill in the four counties of the Diocese.

During the cocktail hour, Knights expressed their admiration for their parish priests who had devoted their lives to strengthen the faith and good works throughout the Diocese of Metuchen’s four counties.

Two Knights from St. Mary-Stony Hill Council 14675 in Watchung – Resty Rivera and Richard Wellbrock – agreed that clergy were integral in the life of the parish.

“The priests are the head [of the parish]. They live for the faith and guide us,” said Rivera, while Wellbrock added, “The world needs people who are called to live to a higher call.”

“Priests do so much for us,” asserted Jared Rindos, a new member of the St. Elizabeth Council 2392 which serves St. James Parish, Basking Ridge. “We should honor them as they honor us.”

Dinner chairman Daniel Murphy, a

Murphy said. “This is the least we can do. It helps them reconnect with one another as well.”

During the dinner, Edward M. Schilke, president of the Knights’ Metuchen Diocese Chapter, shared the details of how its more than 60 member councils had contributed to the Church and community over the past year. Schilke, who serves as Grand Knight of St. Catherine of Siena Council 15217, Pittstown, enu-

the Knights’ ASAP (Aid and Support Af ter Pregnancy) program.

The Metuchen Chapter also presented Bishop Checchio with a check with proceeds from the Knights’ Intellectual Disabilities Drive. He addressed the fraternal organization, saying, “Thank you for all you do for our priests and for life… it is such an uphill battle defending life. You are on the front lines, and we need your support.”

N.J. State Deputy Raymond Sands expressed his gratitude towards the clergy feted at the dinner, saying, “Thank you for being our leaders, our mentors, our spiritual guides, our passionate advocates and our friends. You give us the means to receive our Lord’s grace through the expression of the most perfect sacrifice of the Eucharist. Thank you for your ministry.”

Women religious celebrated during jubilarian Mass, reception

By Deacon Patrick Cline

“This is what the Church needs so desperately now … your intercession, your consecration,” said Bishop James F Checchio to 23 religious sisters celebrating significant anniversaries this year.

Bishop Checchio served as principal celebrant and homilist for a Sept. 9 Mass honoring and recognizing the gifts of these women, who, together have provided some 1,500 years of ministerial service to the Church.

The Mass, celebrated in Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Piscataway, was an opportunity to thank them for all they have contributed on both a local and worldwide level.

Father Jonathan Toborowsky, vicar general; Father Arlindo Paul Da Silva, pastor of Our Lady of Fatima, and Father Robert V Meyers and Father Robert Pinnisi, parish parochial vicars, served as concelebrants.

In his homily, Bishop Checchio shared that two of his aunts were religious sisters and religious were often present around his home growing up. He said their influence, “certainly helped shape me into the man that I am, the priest that I am, the Bishop that I am.” He told the sisters gathered, “Our Dio-

cese is certainly blessed by you and what you do and what you are, so I thank you.”

Bishop Checchio continued, “So many of our people gain strength just by seeing you. Without saying a word your presence gives hope and confidence that there is more to life than meets the eye. Your witness reminds us that what is needed is the eyes of faith to see rightly the things of this world, and put them in proper perspective.”

The Bishop acknowledged that religious consecrated women have heard the call, “to serve the least of our brothers and sisters as Jesus commands us in the Gospel today. It is your intimacy with the Lord that everyone is hungering for. … I am also grateful, above all, that you are deep women of prayer.”

While assuring the sisters of his prayers for them, Bishop Checchio asked, “for your continued prayers for the Dio cese of Metuchen and for me, also.”

At the conclusion of the Mass Sister Anna Nguyen, the Delegate for Religious in the Diocese, thanked Bishop Checchio, “on behalf of all consecrated persons present as well as those not able to be with us, especially our Jubilarians of 2023.”

Sister Nguyen also acknowledged and expressed her gratitude for the assistance of the Diocesan staff and to all who had

contributed and participated in the day.

During the reception which followed, Fathers Toborowsky and Da Silva, both celebrating their 25th ordination anniversary, were recognized for their service. Father Toborowsky said he was overwhelmed by the sisters’ cumulative. years of service, adding, “I hope you will be able to celebrate Father Da Silva’s and my 50th Jubilee anniversary with us.”

Father Da Silva agreed, saying, “I am inspired by you and your many years of service to the Church.”

Brother Gary Humes, a Sacred Heart Brother who teaches theology at St. Joseph High School, Metuchen, attended the Jubilee celebration along with Brother Daniel St. Jacques, also from St.

Joseph. Brother Humes celebrated his 25th anniversary as a consecrated religious in 2022. He said, “We attended the Jubilee event, to show our support and appreciation to these Sister Jubilarians and all consecrated religious women for all that they do for our Church.”

For an expanded story, visit Catholicspirit.com.

On the Memorial of Saint Peter Claver, Bishop Checchio joined the Office for Religious and Consecrated Life and the Religious Jubilarians of the Diocese of Metuchen to celebrate Mass and honor the sisters’ commitment and love for Jesus Christ and the Church.

— Gerald Wutkowski Jr.

photo

Religious makes perpetual vows in joy-filled ceremony

By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor

Echoing the words of the prophet Samuel when he discerned the call of Christ, a jubilant young woman stood before a church of believers and uttered eight life-changing words.

“Lord, you have called me. Here I am,” said Sister of Jesus Our Hope Anna Palka, speaking her Perpetual Vows Sept. 7 before friends, family and fellow religious in St. Mary of Mount Virgin Church, New Brunswick. Bishop James F. Checchio served as principal celebrant of the Mass and rite which would define the young woman’s path of faith, service to the Church and community.

An acolyte swinging a censer with tendrils of incense curling upwards led the procession into the nearly-100-year-

old church. Dozens of fellow clergy eager to celebrate her God-centered decision preceded the Bishop’s entrance, including Father Jonathan Toborowsky, vicar general and moderator of the Curia, and Father Michael Fragoso, pastor of Parish of the Visitation, New Brunswick, of which St. Mary is a worship site.

“I read somewhere that hope is not conviction that something will turn out well, but rather, it is the certainty something makes sense regardless how it turns out,” the Bishop said. Noting that the future religious sister made The Catholic Center at Rutgers University her spiritual home while an undergraduate, he continued, “You responded to God’s invitation. Despite attending a campus with about 60,000 people, you were able to find a quiet space. God will never forget you or

leave you alone. You are called to make Christ present in our world.”

Bishop Checchio questioned Sister Anna, who asserted she was ready to assume the vows of poverty, chastity and obedience. “I ask for perseverance in following Christ my bridegroom in this religious community all the days of my life,” she said, the congregation erupting in applause. The Bishop prayed, “May almighty God grant you his grace to fulfill what you have resolved.”

The shepherd continued his queries whether the religious sister would “strive steadfastly to perfection,” and “spend your whole life in generous service to God’s people.” Each time, she answered in a clear, confident voice, “I am.” Vowing chastity, poverty and obedience for the rest of her life, Sister Anna was given

By Cori Urban, Contributing Editor

The new director of the Office of Discipleship Formation for Children takes to heart Jesus’ words to His disciples: “Truly, I say to you, unless you turn and become like children, you will never enter the kingdom of Heaven (Matthew 18:3).”

“Children have a natural capacity for wonder and are open to communion with Jesus if they are raised in an environment that fosters this communion,” Jill Ker ekes says. “Fostering this openness to communion helps the child grow in holi ness as he ages and gives him strength for when he starts to encounter the spiritual challenges that are common to teens as they grow and develop. A child that is open to communion with Jesus also can serve as an evangelizer in a family.”

Kerekes, a parishioner of St. Magdalen de Pazzi in Flemington, assumed her new role for the Diocese of Metuchen on Aug. 14. She replaced Carol Mascola who has retired.

The job entails supporting the pastors, parish catechetical leaders and parish catechists in their parish catechetical

programs.

Kerekes sees parents as the primary educators of their children. “Catechetical programs, Catholic schools and the community of believers assist parents in this formation, but parents are by far the most important educators,” she says. “Parents actually make a commitment to bring up their children in the faith when the

children are baptized, and this commitment needs to be taken seriously. Parents teach their children what it means to be a disciple of Jesus by their actions, words and openness to communion with Jesus. Children observing their parents living out their faith authentically is actually the primary predictor for the children continuing to practice their faith as adults.”

According to Kerekes, the breakdown of the family is the primary challenge children face in the modern world. “Even if a child is from an intact nuclear family, it is common for there to be disorder in the extended family and in the wider social circle.”

In addition, many children “seem to be cut off from the natural world,” preferring screens over fresh air and sunshine, texting friends instead of talking to them, she continues. “They crave truth, beauty and goodness but are directed toward many things that provide the opposite. Both children and adults seem to have lost the sense of what it means to be a human being, made in God’s image.”

She plans to focus on fostering parish religious education programs as centers of

Sister of Jesus

Our Hope Anna Palka is given a simple gold band by Bishop James F. Checchio during her Perpetual Vows Sept. 7 in St. Mary of Mount Virgin Church, New Brunswick, symbolizing that Jesus is her Bridegroom.

Sister Anna warmly embraces Sister Christine Quense as she formally joins the order. —Jeffrey Bruno photos

a simple gold ring to be worn to signify Christ is her Bridegroom.

Fellow Sister of Jesus

Our Hope Christine Quense expressed joy at the addition of the young religious, calling her “made for our community.” She continued, “Sister Anna has served joyfully in bringing our charism of hope in Christ to so many young people at the RU Catholic Center as well as to numerous adults and children she has met. In a very real sense, the Church stamps its seal on the action that the Holy Spirit has already been doing in Sister Anna’s heart for several years.

“We are so proud of Sister Anna, and we are so very grateful for her daring to say ‘yes’ to Jesus at a time in history when this is less popular and more misunderstood than ever,” Sister Christine said.

New director of formation for children brings ‘practical experience’

conversion and formation. The overarching premise for events and formation opportunities from the Office of Discipleship Formation for Children will be that catechesis is meant to be evangelizing.

Kerekes was born and raised in Maine; she is a proud Acadian who earned a bachelor’s degree in chemical engineering from the University of Rochester, a master’s in pastoral theology from the Augustine Institute in Denver and a master’s in catechesis and evangelization from Franciscan University.

A wife and mother of four children, she has worked as a theology teacher at Immaculata High School, Somerville, St. Joseph High School, Metuchen, and associate director for parish and school catechesis in the Diocese of Trenton.

“I bring a lot of practical experience to this position and have a real-world understanding of many of the difficulties associated with evangelizing and catechizing children and adults,” she says. “I feel like it is a privilege to serve the good people of the Diocese of Metuchen and hope that I can be used in this role as an instrument to lead people to Jesus.”

‘Eucharistic Revival, I’d like you to meet Season of Creation’

By Msgr. Joseph J. Kerrigan Special Contributor

The “Season of Creation” – a special annual five-week span first established by Orthodox Christians in 1989 and subsequently joined by millions of mainline Christians, including Catholics – has its roots in a growing awareness of our need to be better stewards of the environment and to halt further harm.

However, apart from being one Christian response – among many – to the immediate climate crisis enveloping the planet, the “Season of Creation” is an inspired and well-timed commemoration on its own merits.

Especially for us in the northeastern United States, when school still moreor-less begins in early September – yet years after we adults may have left our last classrooms – we somehow maintain an inner “back-to-school” feeling during this time of year. Running from Sept. 1 to Oct. 4, the “Season of Creation” coincides nicely with this impulse. And what better way to go “back-to-school” than to return to the fundamental lessons that Mother Earth always teaches.

While the Lenten season is the time to set aright our relationships with God and neighbor – ideally through the active practicing of ancient Christian disciplines of prayer, fasting and almsgiving – the Season of Creation may be envisioned more as a time of contemplative receptivity and reawakening to nature.

Rather than asking, as we do in Lent, “What can I give up? “What can I do?”, we would do well during the Season of Creation to simply let nature wash over us anew, in all its diversity and rhythms, so as to absorb the great text God has written for us in the aspects of creation.

Actions that we may take during the

Season of Creation, even those that wade into complicated waters – legislative advocacy or changes in our family lifestyle – are most fruitful when they derive from this renewed first-hand contemplative intimacy with creation. So, too, our prayer during this time may be best expressed simply as prayerful presence in harmony with the ongoing prayer of nature.

The prayer of nature, you say? Nature prays? Our Scriptures, liturgy and theology would all seem to say so, yes.

Perhaps the best-known biblical example of nature praising God is Psalm 148, verse three of which sings, “Praise him, sun and moon, praise him, shining stars.”

The renowned Irish theologian Rev. Msgr. Dermot Lane recently wrote “Nature Praising God” in which he states, “It is helpful to see nature as a book to be read, a text to be interpreted, a voice to be heard … as a book and a voice, nature is capable of giving praise to the Creator.”

Our most prominent liturgical form of prayer is of course that of the Eucharist. Here, too, we find nature praising God. From Eucharistic Prayer III, these wellknown words: “You are indeed holy, O Lord, and all you have created rightly gives you praise, for through your Son our Lord Jesus Christ, by the power and working of the Holy Spirit, you give life to all things and make them holy.”

Eucharistic Prayer IV ends with this all-inclusive image: “Grant, O merciful Father, that we may enter into a heavenly inheritance with the Blessed Virgin Mary, Mother of God, blessed Joseph her spouse, and with your Apostles and Saints in your kingdom. There, with the whole of creation, freed from the corruption of sin and death, may we glorify you through Christ our Lord.”

We are currently in the midst of the National Eucharistic Revival in the United

States, an effort to foster devotion, renewal and commitment to the Eucharist. Could this revival be boosted by the overlapping energy of Season of Creation?

There’s no reason it can’t. The Eucharist is most popularly celebrated on Sunday, the Lord’s Day, also known as the “First Day of the New Creation.” We worship God using the things of this world – water, bread, grapes, oil and more. We literally raise up creation during the Mass. Noted liturgy professor Rev. Msgr. Kevin Irwin, in his new book “Ecology, Liturgy and the Sacraments” writes, “The very doing of liturgy engages us in the rhythm of the cosmos through sight, sound, smell, taste and touch.”

Counterintuitive as it may first seem, reviving our Eucharistic practice

through a greater appreciation of nature offers exciting possibilities for the Lord’s Day. A Sunday dawn stroll in the woods can be seen as preparation for the Eucharist; a greater attention to the words and uses of creation in the Mass may foster a greater overall engagement in the liturgy, as well as a sense of continuity with encounters in creation that continue after we “go in peace, glorifying the Lord by our lives.”

As St. Pope John II once said, “Even when the Eucharist is celebrated on the humble altar of a country church, the Eucharist is always celebrated on the altar of the world.”

Msgr. Joseph J. Kerrigan is pastor of St. Joseph Catholic Community, Bound Brook.

Above: The church of Saint-Michel of Chamonix-Mont-Blanc is a Catholic church nestled in the French Alps and surrounded by the beauty of God’s Creation.

—Tom Podmore photo/unsplash

Left: During the Easter season the altar in St. Joseph Parish, Bound Brook, is adorned with the beauty of the Lord’s creation. —Courtesy photo

Founders of interfaith women’s movement earn Pacem in Terris award

sharing the important events in each of their lives – weddings, births, illness, deaths, all of which are marked with rituals.

University Hospital, New Brunswick. Olitzky, who is Jewish, is a sought-after presenter, former marketing executive, and founding executive director of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom. Her husband is Rabbi Emeritus Kerry Olitzky.

By being present during these important religious celebrations of others of different faiths, said Aftab, “women are learning more about their own religion and learning more about themselves.” But crossing that threshold is a big step for many, she acknowledged.

Since 1964, the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award, created by the Davenport, Iowa, Interracial Council, has been presented to persons of outstanding achievement in peace and justice, not only in their own country but in the world. Former recipients have included Dorothy Day, President John F. Kennedy, Martin Luther King Jr.; Dorothy Day; St. Teresa of Kolkata; Archbishop Desmond Tutu, and the Dalai Lama.

This year, the 2023 award was presented to Atiya Aftab and Sheryl Olitzky, co-founders of the Sisterhood of Salaam Shalom, a movement established to build relationships between Muslim and Jewish women. What began as a small group

across the U.S., Canada and England, and includes 10 youth chapters.

The award was presented to Aftab and Olitzky by Archbishop-elect Thomas Zinkula Sept. 13 at St. Ambrose University’s Rogalski Center, Davenport.

Reading from the award, Bishop Zinkula said, “It is obvious from your words and deeds that you are women deeply rooted in the spirit of peace. You both truly embody the words of Pope John XXIII as ‘a spark of light, a center of love, a vivifying leaven’ to your sisters and brothers around the world.”

Aftab, who is Muslim, is a practicing attorney, educator and activist. She is the wife of Dr. Amar Bukhari, Chair of the Ethics Committee in St. Peter’s

In her acceptance remarks, Olitzky explained the dynamic of inter-personal contact being “among the most effective way to overcome prejudice among groups that are different,” pointing out that “for you to hear about Muslim and Jewish women in the Sisterhood and our work to make this a better world, there is potential for you, the listener, to also be changed.”

In an interview with the Catholic Spirit, Aftab spoke about the power of gathering together. “It builds a level of trust, creates a sense of peace … we are seeing things from a different experience and creating brave spaces, where we agree to disagree or change our opinions,” she said.

In the process of “getting to know someone, you see their humanity, as wife, mother, child, child of God,” she stressed. While the women talk about things like what happened during the week, the kids, or politics, the things they have in common, “the spice of it is learning how we are different.”

This knowledge often comes from

In her comments following the presentation of the award, Aftab reflected, “Whether our sisters have traveled with us, participated in our programs or conferences or are members of chapters, the narratives, the conversations and the learning are life-changing – they make us see each other as humans and not just labels. We know the Sisterhood has changed lives. And we know that our common teaching from the Old Testament and the Quran is true – to save one life is to save the world.

“But what does that mean? That means that our job, our responsibility, is to take a step; take one step at a time, one good deed at a time and it makes a world of change. We do our part and God takes care of the rest. The result is not in our hands but the journey toward peace, justice and change is in our hands. Dream, but make a plan, and take a step and do not be overwhelmed with the depth of the challenge.”

The award honors St. Pope John XXIII and commemorates his 1963 encyclical letter, Pacem in Terris (Peace on Earth), which called on all people to secure peace among all nations. The Quad City Pacem in Terris Coalition has presented the award since 1978.

Pope hails beatified Polish family as “a ray of light in the darkness”

By Paulina Guzik, OSV News

MARKOWA, Poland (OSV News) -- In one of the most significant moments in Polish post-war history, the Ulma family was beatified in Markowa Sept. 10. “I think it will only get me at night, when I come back home, because now I still can’t believe it,” Jerzy Ulma, nephew of Blessed Józef Ulma told OSV News.

His uncle, Józef, along with wife Wiktoria and seven children: Stanislawa, Barbara, Wladyslaw, Franciszek, Antoni, Maria and a child without a name born during the martyrdom of their mother were declared blessed by papal envoy Cardinal Marcello Semeraro in Markowa, where the Ulma family lived and died March 24, 1944.

They were killed by German occupants of Poland for giving shelter to eight Jews in their house. “It would be a mistake if the day of the Ulma beatification would be used only to remember the terror and atrocities committed by the perpetrators,” Cardinal Semeraro said in a homily. “We would like this day to be a day of joy,” he said.

In 1942, Wiktoria and Józef accepted a Jewish family into their home. “Today,

along with the new blessed, we would like to remember their names,” Cardinal Semeraro said. “They were: Saul Goldman with sons Baruch, Mechel, Joachim, Moses as well as Golda Grünfeld and Lea Didner with little daughter Reshla,” he listed. “The gesture of Józef and Wiktoria was a sign of obedience to God’s commandment,” the cardinal said. “It was a ‘yes’ to God’s will,” he said, emphasizing that a man “despised, rejected and mortally wounded” was welcomed to their home.

During the Angelus prayer Sept. 10, Pope Francis praised the new Blesseds, saying, “They opposed the hatred and violence that characterized that time with evangelical love … May this Polish family, which represents a ray of light in the darkness of the Second World War, be for all of us a model to imitate in the zeal for goodness and service to those in need.”

Rabbi of Poland Michael Schudrich participated in the outdoor Mass, celebrated at the football stadium in Markowa.

He said the Ulmas are “mentors.”

“We ask ourselves, what does God want from us? How do we know what we should do?” he said in an interview with Vatican News. “Of course, we have many

Thousands attend the Sept. 10, 2023, beatification Mass of the Ulma family. During his Angelus prayer that same day, Pope Francis said of the family, “They opposed the hatred and violence that characterized that time with evangelical love.”

—OSV News photo/Patryk Ogorzalek/Agencja Wyborcza.pl via Reuter

verses in the Bible that are clear. But it’s very helpful to see someone who lives the way God wants us to live,” he said.

Paulina Guzik is international editor for OSV News. Follow her on X (formerly known as Twitter) @Guzik_Paulina.

Archbishop-elect Thomas Zinkula, Bishop of the Diocese of Davenport, Iowa, presents the Pacem in Terris Peace and Freedom Award to Sheryl Olitzky, left, and Atiya Aftab, right, at St. Ambrose University, Davenport, Sept. 13.

Photo by Anne Marie Amacher/ The Catholic Messenger

Jesus’ ‘priestly prayer’ sums up creation, salvation

Article 178 - Catechism of the Catholic Church Series

Paragraphs 2746-2758

What people often miss when reading or reflecting on the Priestly Prayer of Christ in Saint John’s Gospel (17:1-26) is the fact that it contains, unlike the Lord’s Prayer, Jesus’ longest recorded prayer. Highlighted by scholars as one of the most profound theological and spiritual documents in the entire New Testament, Jesus prays this prayer after He finishes His final instructions to the disciples and before He is betrayed, arrested, and crucified.

Jesus prays:

1. “Father, the hour has come. Give glory to your Son, so that your Son may glorify you, 2. just as you gave him authority over all people, so that he may give eternal life to all you gave him. 3. Now this is eternal life, that they should know you, the only true God, and the one whom you sent, Jesus Christ. 4. I glorified you on earth by accomplishing the work that you gave me to do. 5. Now glorify me, Father, with you, with the glory that I had with you before the world began.

6. “I revealed your name to those whom

you gave me out of the world. They belonged to you, and you gave them to me, and they have kept your word. 7. Now they know that everything you gave me is from you, 8. because the words you gave to me I have given to them, and they accepted them and truly understood that I came from you, and they have believed that you sent me. 9. I pray for them. I do not pray for the world but for the ones you have given me, because they are yours, 10. and everything of mine is yours and everything of yours is mine, and I have been glorified in them. 11. And now I will no longer be in the world, but they are in the world, while I am coming to you. Holy Father, keep them in your name that you have given me, so that they may be one just as we are. 12. When I was with them I protected them in your name that you gave me, and I guarded them, and none of them was lost except the son of destruction, in order that the scripture might be fulfilled.13. But, now I am coming to you. I speak this in the world so that they may share my joy completely. 14. I gave them your word, and the world hated them, because they do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. 15. I do not ask that you take them out of the world but that you keep them from the evil one. 16. They do not belong to the world any more than I belong to the world. 17. Consecrate them in the truth. Your word is truth. 18. As you sent me into the world, so I sent them into the world. 19. And I consecrate myself for them, so that they also may be consecrated in truth. 20. I pray not only for

them, but also for those who will believe in me through their word, 21. so that they may all be one, as you, Father, are in me and I in you, that they also may be in us, that the world may believe that you sent me. 22. And I have given them the glory you gave me, so that they may be one, as we are one, 23. I in them and you in me, that they may be brought to perfection as one, that the world may know that you sent me, and that you loved them even as you loved me. 24. Father, they are your gift to me. I wish that where I am they also may be with me, that they may see my glory that you gave me, because you loved me before the foundation of the world. 25. Righteous Father, the world also does not know you, but I know you, and they know that you sent me. 26. I made known to them your name and I will make it known, that the love with which you loved me may be in them and I in them.”

Perhaps this lengthy “Priestly Prayer of Jesus” should be referred to as “The Lord’s Priestly Prayer,” while the “Lord’s Prayer” should be referred to as “Christ’s Prayer to the Father” or “The Our Father.”

The Catechism speaks of this “Priestly Prayer of Jesus” as “the longest transmitted by the Gospel embracing the whole economy of creation and salvation, as well as his death and Resurrection” (CCC 2746). In this prayer, we discern that “Jesus fulfilled the work of the Father completely; his prayer, like his sacrifice, extends until the end of time.

The prayer of this hour fills the end-times and carries them toward their consummation” (CCC 2749). We see here that “everything is recapitulated in Christ: God and the world; the Word and the flesh; eternal life and time; the love that hands itself over and the sin that betrays it; the disciples present and those who will believe in him by their word; humiliation and glory. It is the prayer of unity” (CCC 2748). As the traditional hymn for Trinity Sunday puts it: “Undivided unity, Holy God, mighty God, God immortal, be adored!”

The Catechism continues: “The Son, who made himself Servant, is Lord, the Pantocrator. Our high priest who prays for us is also the one who prays in us and the God who hears our prayer” (CCC 2749). What is the Pantocrator? Pantocrator means ruler of the universe – Priestly King of the universe!

Hence, Christ’s “priestly prayer fulfills, from within, the great petitions of the Lord’s Prayer: concern for the Father’s name; passionate zeal for his kingdom (glory); the accomplishment of the will of the Father, of his plan of salvation; and deliverance from evil” (CCC 2750).

In short, Jesus’ lengthy “Priestly Prayer” “sums up the whole … of creation and salvation. It fulfills the great petitions of the Our Father” (CCC 2758).

Father Hillier is director, diocesan Office of Pontifical Mission Societies, the Office for Persons with Disabilities and Censor Luborum.

Diocese invites ‘Feminine Geniuses’ to brunch, workshop

of their witness.”

On Saturday, Oct. 14, the Diocese of Metuchen will host a “Feminine Genius Brunch” from 9:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway. The event, which is open to women of all ages, is modeled after events recently hosted by the Archdiocese of New York and the Sisters of Life in various parts of New York. The morning includes prayer, fellowship, good food, music and guest speakers.

Pope St. John Paul II first coined the phrase “feminine genius” in his 1995 “Letter to Women,” which was written as a prelude to the United Nations World Conference on Women held in Beijing, a time when abortion was being considered as a universal human right. In the letter, he emphasized the important role women play in society and the Church and highlighted the distinct attributes of women, namely – receptivity, sensitivity, generosity, and maternity – all of which make up the feminine genius.

Receptivity – a woman is uniquely designed to make space within herself for another.

Sensitivity – a woman’s gift to see with her heart, to perceive.

Generosity – a woman’s gift to selflessly pour the light of Christ into another.

Maternity – a woman’s gift to nurture mind, body and soul within herself.

In his 2018 apostolic exhortation, Gaudete et exsultate (Rejoice and be glad), Pope Francis affirms the writings of Pope St. John Paul II on the feminine genius. “I would stress too that the ‘genius of woman’ is seen in feminine styles of holiness, which are an essential means of reflecting God’s holiness in this world.” Pope Francis highlights the many women saints who the Holy Spirit has raised up as well as “all those unknown or forgotten women who, each in her own way, sustained and transformed families and communities by the power

The feminine genius is a God-given capacity that needs to be recognized and cultivated. At a time when gender confusion is exploding all around us, the Feminine Genius Brunch is an opportunity for women to gather and reflect on the wonderful beauty and strength there is in being unapologetically feminine. Contrary to what our culture tells us, our dignity as women is not defined by our external qualities or physical appearance; it is defined by our unique and diverse talents and gifts breathed into us by God at conception as a GPS to our true feminine vocation.

To help us explore the attributes of the feminine genius, the brunch will feature two guest speakers. Shannon Whitmore is the author of the recently published book, “See Yourself as God Does: Understanding Holy Body Image.” In a world where the media, influencers and celebrities set beauty standards, many women struggle with poor body image, which too often leads to eating disorders, cosmetic surgeries and quick fixes to achieve the ideal. Using Sacred Scripture, Shannon will help us to discover that every woman, regardless of her physical

appearance, is a masterpiece of God.

Our second speaker, Lillian Fallon, is an author of the upcoming book, “Theology of Style.” Her mission is to help women realize their identity as individuals made in the Image of God through personal style. Through the lens of Pope John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body,” she will help to unpack the connection between the physical and interior of the human person and body/soul unity.

It is our hope that the talks and experience of this brunch will help us to grow in holiness by revealing the amazing gifts we have as women and by opening the hearts of all who attend to the Holy Spirit who longs to spark these gifts to life! The cost is $20 per person. You may register at: https://diometuchen.org/ events/feminine-genius-brunch.

Ruggiero is Secretary, diocesan Secretariat for Family & Pastoral Life.

“…woman has a genius all her own, which is vitally essential to both society and the Church” (Pope John Paul II- Angelus; July 23, 1995)

God-centered diocesan marriage prep spurs virtual couples’ program

By Anna M. Githens, Correspondent

A state-of-the-art marriage prep program with God as its center is engag ing couples in the Diocese of Metuchen. “God’s Plan for a Joy-Filled Marriage,” based upon Pope St. John Paul II’s “Theology of the Body,” aims to provide couples a more complete understanding of God’s plan for marriage and the gift of human sexuality.

“God’s Plan” is an informational webinar that, according to its website, “provides a full catechesis of the Church’s teaching, in an uplifting manner that resonates within the human heart.” Be gun virtually during the pandemic, it has continued in the same format to enable access to a wide range of speakers and put participants more at ease when asking hard questions. Couples are still required to complete an in-person Pre-Cana type marriage preparation at the parish level.

Cristina D’Averso-Collins, diocesan director of the Office of Family Life, said that there is an understanding that every one comes from a wide range of back grounds and each person is in a different place in his or her faith journey. The program, which utilizes some material from the “God’s Plan for Love” book by Ascension Press, she explained, starts off with questions and discussions about the existence of God and his desire to have a personal relationship with us because everything hinges upon those questions.

“The goal is to get everyone thinking and reflecting seriously on what they are really doing in receiving the Sacrament of Marriage and how this differs

ing couples will hear from a doctor, a nurse, a Catholic therapist, a fertility care educator and speakers from the Long Island Gianna Center. Various topics are covered, ranging from Natural Family Planning to Fertility Awareness along with communication through the lens of Theology of the Body, “in a way that is appealing and medically-sound,” stated D’Averso-Collins.

The couples also watch two videos on the Formed.org website from the

Kristie and Jeff Kuczynski and their young daughter are members of Sacred Heart Parish, South Amboy. The participants in God’s Plan for a Joyful Marriage, described it as “a fun and unique experience, connecting to our faith with other young, engaged couples like ourselves, and we felt eager to continue similar conversations.”

Courtesy photo

Beloved series. Following the videos, they are asked to assess where they are in terms of making Christ the center of their lives and where they believe there is

One couple who completed the program, Kristie and Jeff Kuczynski, Sacred Heart Parish, South Amboy, offered very positive feedback, including a suggestion that led to a new program.

“I think what was truly unique about the ‘God’s Plan for Marriage’ session was the human element of it,” Kristie shared. “When it comes to the chaos and tedious efforts of planning a wedding, it’s easy to forget the greater purpose of being married in the Catholic Church. We were reminded through this course that Marriage is a Sacrament, and [it] further instilled our desire to commit ourselves in this holy way, with hopes of growing closer in faith

Life Choices offers fellowship group for mothers

By EmmaLee Italia, Contributing Editor

Providing a welcoming atmosphere for mothers to gather in prayer and fellowship, Life Choices Resource Center, Metuchen, recently welcomed six moms and their children to the new “Upper Room” for their Mom’s Group.

A new program for the Center, the Mom’s Group is an opportunity for both new and experienced mothers to share information, ideas, thoughts and concerns in a family-like setting. The meetings are planned to take place monthly in the Upper Room – a new location “designed to bring peace and comfort to all who gather here. It is a multi-purpose room set aside for quiet space, reflection and unity,” said Center director of outreach Elaine Yunker.

The evening began with a prayer and light supper, and included presentations on breastfeeding, parenting tools and safety tips. Moms were given personal gift bags including safety items and poison control information. One mom shared, “It was wonderful and very intimate. My son is going to meet everyone

that helped save his mommy. He and I will always be a part of Life Choices.”

The program, Yunker said, had begun with two sessions prior to the pandemic, and resumed this summer with meetings in July and August, including sharing, fellowship and light refreshments.

“The October group will be designed for our Spanish speaking clients,” Yunker explained. “Our plan is to hold these gatherings once a month and to offer some for our dads as well.

Topics for discussion will include safety, poison control, breastfeeding, labor and delivery, and welcome time for open conversation and dialogue.

“We hope our clients will connect with each other and establish friendships,” she continued. “We want them to know that we are always here for them, long after their babies are born. We will be adding the Mom’s Group and Upper Room information to our website shortly.”

Yunker noted that those in need who are interested in becoming a client can contact the Center.

“Also, if there is someone who

together as a married couple.”

“The methods of Natural Family Planning were useful in starting our own family with our now seven-month-old daughter, and it was interesting to learn how the method is not only supported by the Church, but also backed by science,” Kristie said.

Another key feature of the program, the website states, is that it is “designed to facilitate self-awareness and insight, and to help couples develop important relational skills.” Through their witness the Kuczynskis testify to this teaching.

“Additionally, we enjoyed the guest speaker, a psychologist, who discussed matters like how to manage stress in marriage, and communication skills that we will continue to use in our lives,” Kristie said.

D’Averso-Collins recalled, “After our God’s Plan session, Kristie asked if there were more opportunities to learn about the faith,” noting it was during COVID and the question became a suggestion.

“We would form a virtual group for couples,” she said. “We started off going through a book with Scripture passages for couples and have done various series. We studied JPII’s ‘Love and Responsibility’ and, most recently, discussed ‘The Chosen’ TV series, episode by episode as a group. This past summer, we prayed a Rosary for couples and families. While we wait for the next season of ‘The Chosen,’ we are doing Lectio Divina for couples starting on Sept. 18, and meeting every other Monday at 7 p.m.”

Couples interested in joining the group may contact Cristina D’AversoCollins at cdaverso@diometuchen.org.

would like to offer their service as a speaker for one of our groups, that too would be most welcome,” she added.”

Due to limited space, the group gatherings are open to clients of record –mothers and fathers. To attend a meeting or for information on becoming a client, call 732-516-0911.

Mothers and their children take advantage of the Mom’s Group in Life Choices Resource Center. Pictured in blue sweater is Elaine Yunker, Director of Outreach. Courtesy photo

Church urged to address suicide risk with education, resources

By Kimberley Heatherington OSV News

(OSV News) – Suicide, it is sometimes said, is a permanent solution to a temporary problem. But for at least 49,449 Americans during 2022, feelings of distress were so acute they took their own lives.

As CNN recently reported with the release of provisional data from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, “the suicide rate spiked in 2021, reversing two years of decline. And with the continued increase in 2022, rates surpassed the previous record from 2018.”

According to the CDC, suicide rates rose 37% between 2000-2018 and decreased 5% between 2018-2020. However, rates nearly returned to their peak in 2021.

“There is no suicide epidemic, as that term is used within epidemiology,” explained David Jobes, a psychology professor at The Catholic University of America in Washington, and director of its Suicide Prevention Lab. “Cause for concern? To be sure!”

A story more frequently overlooked, Jobes thinks, is the high number of those who contemplate suicide. The Substance Abuse and Mental Health Services Ad ministration (SAMHSA) reported that 2021 survey data indicates for every in dividual suicide death, about 265 people seriously considered suicide in the previ ous 12 months.

“If we were better at identifying people with serious ideation and treating them upstream,” said Jobes, “we’d have fewer of them going on to attempt and die by suicide.”

Suicide risk factors cited by the CDC include “racism and discrimination in our society, economic hardship, pov erty, limited affordable housing, lack of educational opportunities, and barriers to physical and mental health care access.”

Other factors, the CDC adds, are “relationship problems or feeling a lack of connectedness to others, easy access to lethal means among people at risk, experiences of violence such as child abuse and neglect, adverse childhood experiences, bullying, and serious health conditions.”

Deacon Ed Shoener, president of the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers, said he wasn’t surprised by the latest CDC figures.

“There’s a misperception out there that people have a rational choice – like Hamlet, ‘To be, or not to be,’” said Deacon Shoener. “Shakespeare used suicide as a plot twist quite often – suggesting that it’s some sort of rational thing. There’s nothing rational about suicide.”

Public attention, emphasized Deacon Shoener, is critical.

“We haven’t placed enough resources into understanding the psychology of suicide – and the mental health issues

that go along with it – to be able to get these rates back down,” he said.

“No one wants to die by suicide. I’ve talked to a number of people that have survived the attempt, and they all say –once they’re mentally and psychologically stable – ‘Thank God I didn’t die; I didn’t want to do this,’” Deacon Shoener recalled. “But somehow, their brain gets them to the point where they think it’s the best thing to do – in fact, they think it’s the only thing to do.”

For Deacon Shoener, the pain is personal. In 2016, he lost his own daughter, Katie, to suicide. “This life is not for me,” she wrote in a final note, before turning a gun on herself.

His loss launched Deacon Shoener on a ministry of mental health accompaniment – and his cumulative experience equipped him to suggest ways the Catholic Church can do the same.

the sting of stigma.

“The Church can guide people and reassure them it is a gift from God to go get mental healthcare. You’re not a bad Catholic if you go see a therapist or a counselor, or take psychiatric drugs,” Deacon Shoener stressed. “That’s a gift from God, too.”

Like Deacon Shoener, Marian Father Chris Alar, a provincial superior of the Marian Fathers of the Immaculate Conception, has known the shock of a loved one suddenly taking their life.

“Using a small handgun that was kept in the house for protection, my grandmother shot herself in the bathroom and lay in a pool of blood for what authorities estimated to have been about two hours,” Father Alar wrote in the book he co-wrote with fellow Marian Father Jason Lewis, “After Suicide: There’s Hope for Them and You” (Marian Press).

lives. By ways known to him alone, God can provide the opportunity for salutary repentance.”

He also agrees with Deacon Shoener that more needs to be done.

“The Church is finally learning mental health is a major influence on our spiritual life,” Father Alar observed. “We need to talk to our pastors … We need our people to go to their bishops and dioceses, and request support services for the grieving and for mental health,” said Father Alar. “This is something people need to ask their bishops for.”

Sister Kathryn J. Hermes – a Pauline nun and author of “Surviving Depression: A Catholic Approach” (Pauline Books & Media) – suggests that an immersive homiletic practicum for seminarians could help them realize the impact of their words upon those struggling with mental illness.

“You give a homily,” she imagined, “and in your assembly is someone who’s suicidal; someone who’s manic depressive; someone who’s been abused – a variety of individuals who represent the people you will have in your parish one day. And after you give your homily, you sit down and hear from each one of those people what they heard,” said Sister Hermes. “How do you hold together the truth, and the pastoral reality?”

The goal, said Sister Hermes, isn’t for everyone to become a therapist, but to realize the impact language and actions can have for those struggling with mental health issues.

“Does the parish even see them?” Sister Hermes asked. “People are putting on their Sunday clothes and going to Mass, and they’ve got it together for the time they’re in public – but has anyone touched the depth of the pain? They don’t even realize how much this is needed.”

Deacon Shoener and Phoenix Bishop John P. Dolan are co-editors of “When a Loved One Dies by Suicide” and its complementary film series, “Responding to Suicide: A Pastoral Handbook for Catholic Leaders” (Ave Maria Press).

“The Church’s role in mental health, mental illness and even suicidality, is to reassure people Christ is with them in the midst of their struggles,” Deacon Shoener said. “Just like when someone’s living with cancer, or multiple sclerosis, we can’t make these physical illnesses go away. But what we can do is reassure people Christ is with them; that he understands their suffering.”

And the Church can help dissolve

“The main reason Father Jason Lewis and I wrote the book was to educate and provide a pastoral aid for people who were despairing of their lost loved ones because they had always learned if you take your own life, you are automatically damned to hell,” Father Alar shared. “That is not Church teaching – surprising to some – because the only way we lose our soul is to die in an unrepentant state of mortal sin.”

The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “We are stewards, not owners, of the life God has entrusted to us. It is not ours to dispose of. … We should not despair of the eternal salvation of persons who have taken their own

September is National Suicide Prevention Awareness Month. If you or someone you know is in crisis, call or text the 988 Suicide & Crisis Lifeline at 988 (para ayuda en español, llame al 988). The Lifeline provides 24-hour, confidential support to anyone in suicidal crisis or emotional distress.

Kimberley Heatherington writes for OSV News from Virginia.

A suicide prevention sign is pictured on a protective fence on the walkway of the George Washington Bridge between in New York City Jan. 12, 2022. The U.S. is not facing a “suicide epidemic,” as some might term it, but a recent spike in the suicide rate after a decrease for a number of years is alarming and “cause for concern,” say experts. OSV News photo/Mike Segar, Reuters

Catholic Charities providing disaster relief after Maui wildfires

Catholic Charities Hawai‘i, Diocese of Honolulu, has appealed for donations to assist with the extensive needs of thousands of victims of the recent wildfires on Maui that destroyed the town of Lahaina. As of Sept. 8, the death toll remains at 115, with 66 missing, down from as many as 1,000. A link to Catholic Charities Hawai‘i Maui Relief is here: https://www.catholiccharitieshawaii.org/maui-relief/

In addition, Catholic Charities USA is also providing lifesaving resources and relief on the ground. Parishes and individuals who wish to contribute to that relief effort may make donations online at https:// www.catholiccharitiesusa.org/ or use the QR code to make a donation. 100 percent of donations will go directly to disaster relief.

Volunteers prepare donations for the victims of the Maui wildfires at Pier 1 in Honolulu Aug. 12, 2023.

The devastating wildfires on Maui have claimed over 100 lives, and burned thousands of homes, businesses and historical sites, leaving locals desperate for basic necessities including food, water and housing. —OSV News photo /Marco Garcia, Reuters

Bishop James F. Checchio invites all to the Diocese of Metuchen’s 21st Annual Blue Mass honoring local, county, state and federal law enforcement officials of all faiths who live and work in the diocese, which includes Middlesex, Hunterdon, Somerset and Warren Counties.

Nayan Kothari, MD, receives Presidential Medal for Excellence in Medical Education

NEW BRUNSWICK, N.J. – August 17, 2023 – Saint Peter’s University Hospital, a member of Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, is pleased to announce that Dr. Nayan K. Kothari, chief academic officer, has received the Presidential Medal for Excellence in Medical Education from The Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh (RCPE). RCPE facilitates the professional development of physicians by establishing independent quality standards for healthcare delivery with its main goal to improve patient care.

The President’s Medal is announced once a year by the college to acknowledge the excellent work one has accomplished within their community. Dr. Kothari is the first person outside of the United Kingdom to receive the President’s Medal.

Dr. Kothari’s commitment to medical education is an integral part of his medical practice. He is the former chairman of the Department of Medicine and

former program director of the Internal Medicine Residency Program at Saint Peter’s University Hospital. He is a member of the board of The Society of Bedside Medicine, a global community of physician educators dedicated to bed side teaching and improving physical examination and diagnostic skills.

The organization aims to foster a culture of bedside medicine and patientcentered care through deliberate practice and teaching by encouraging innovation in education and research regarding the role of the clinical encounter in 21st cen tury medicine. Dr. Kothari is currently Governor of the New Jersey Southern Region of the American College of Phy sicians (ACP), the national organization of internists. ACP is the largest medical specialty organization and the secondlargest physician group in the United States working to support the physicianpatient relationship and the profession of internal medicine.

God bless Sister Dolores!

F. Checchio celebrated a special Mass of Thanksgiving for Filippini Sister Dolores Toscano, in the Church of St. Ann in Raritan. After 23 years of service to the people of God in the Raritan area, Sister Dolores has retired from her role as pastoral associate of St. Ann Parish, Raritan.

ously ministered to the homebound with the gifts of the Eucharist and friendships to those alone and forgotten. Sister Dolores will move to the local Mother House of the Filippini Sisters in Morristown.

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Photo by John Batkowski; brief by Gerald Wutkowski Jr.

Carmelite community’s Blessing of Roses, Year of Preparation

Mass to be livestreamed

a Year of Preparation for the community’s 75th anniversary will be celebrated at 10 a.m. Oct. 14, with Bishop Manuel Cruz of the Archdiocese of Newark as the main celebrant and homilist.

Links for the livestreams will be published on the community’s website: flemingtoncarmel.org/livestreamingevents

The cloistered contemplative nuns – formerly a part of the Diocese of Trenton before the Diocese of Metuchen was formed – still keep the priests of the Diocese of Trenton in their intentions during a Holy Hour for priests. They have begun to livestream some liturgies for friends across the United States, as far as Hawaii.

moved to its first monastery on Leffler Hill in Flemington in 1956, then to its current location in 1972.

The Blessing of Roses, Sister Gabriela explained, honors St. Therese of the Child Jesus, Carmelite nun and Doctor of the Church, also known as “The Little Flower,” whose feast day is Oct. 1.

By EmmaLee Italia

Contributing Editor

Anticipating a milestone anniversary, and in an effort to build interest in vocations, the Discalced Carmelite Sisters

of Flemington will host two livestreamed celebrations this October.

The Blessing of Roses will take place on Oct. 1 at 7:30 p.m., with Bishop James F. Checchio, Bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen, presiding. A Mass to begin

“We want to make our life known because … there is a tremendous hunger in many people of different or of no religion for a spiritual meaning to their life,” said Discalced Carmelite Sister Gabriela of the Incarnation. “We want to show that to devote oneself to God opens oneself to a life of deep meaning and tremendous joy!”

The Year of Preparation Mass will begin the preparation for celebrating the Carmel of Mary Immaculate and St. Mary Magdalen’s founding in New Brunswick in 1949. The community

“Before her death, Therese had promised, ‘My mission – to make God loved – will begin after my death. I will spend my heaven doing good on earth. I will let fall a shower of roses,’” Sister Gabriela said. “In memory of this promise, Carmelite Monasteries around the world honor her with the traditional Blessing of Roses, a liturgy of prayers of thanksgiving to God and Therese, and the distribution of blessed roses or rose petals.”

This popular ceremony, interrupted by the pandemic, is made possible by benefactor Jim Besch, who provides several dozen long-stemmed roses each year.

“People come an hour ahead of time to be sure of a seat, and it is not uncommon for the aisles and corridor to be filled with devotees,” Sister Gabriela said. “Often the sanctuary is filled with priests.”

EmmaLee Italia is a contributing editor for The Monitor, Diocese of Trenton.

Celebrating 75 Years 1948-2023

Praising God for our Past Embracing God in our Present Living God in our Future

80 Main St., Bloomsbury, NJ

Annunciationrcc.org

Please join the 2023 Public Square Rosary Crusade

Our nation is in great need of public prayer, repentance and conversion. We ask God to save America through the Rosary of His Most Holy Mother.

Blessed

Please join us in praying for our nation on Saturday, October 14, 2023, at 12:00 noon. The local Public Square Rosary Rally will take place at Guardian Angels Church, Our Lady of Lourdes grotto, 37 Plainfield Avenue, Edison, NJ 08817.

Please contact Geralyn at 908-420-5457 for more information.

Photo courtesy Carmel of Mary Immaculate and St. Mary Magdalen

A new academic, spiritual journey for young disciples begins!

The beginning of a new school year is filled with anticipation and excitement for students, teachers, administrators and families. We in the Diocese of Metuchen look forward to opening our doors on the first day of school and continuing our ministerial mission for our students.

In our Catholic Schools, this time of year serves as the foundation for the unique opportunity to infuse the academic journey with spiritual growth, fostering a holistic development encompassing both the mind and the soul. This helps reinforce the values of faith, compassion and community.

One of the distinguishing features of our schools is the incorporation of prayer and reflection into daily classroom routines. When we take time to connect with God and contemplate the day ahead, our students and teachers are reminded of the spiritual dimension of their educational pursuits.

At the heart of our schools are the core values rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, and these values are woven into the daily life of our students. Com-

passion, kindness, respect and forgiveness are virtues that can be demonstrated and applied when children collaborate on projects, engage in discussions, support one another, and work together in athletic and extracurricular endeavors.

Our schools emphasize the importance of service to others, thus strengthening the entire school community. Through volunteering, supporting charitable causes, or participating in outreach programs our students learn that their actions can have a positive impact on the world around them.

All of our schools will be participating in the newly created “Saint of the Month” program. This initiative will support our mission of forming disciples of Jesus Christ. Each month of this school year, the life of a saint will be introduced as a positive role model and the virtues that they emulate will be an inspiration to our youth as we continue to form, inform, and transform them to be the saints of today and tomorrow.

The National Eucharistic Revival will continue to be a focus, assisting all

of us in renewing our worship of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. The Eucharist is often referred to as the “source and summit” of the Catholic faith, and by focusing on the Eucharist our school community can find a common ground that unites them despite their diverse backgrounds and experiences. The results will be schools that will have a stronger sense of pride and unity and inspire positive action within the school and community.

Our schools deeply appreciate the support and generosity of our annual “Days of Giving” – an integral part of each school’s fundraising that will support programs and initiatives for our students and teachers. This generosity helps our mission flourish and thrive through more accessible and enriching opportunities for all. More information about the Days of Giving will be forthcoming in October.

We thank and appreciate our families for choosing a Catholic education in the Diocese of Metuchen. We do not take this choice lightly, and all our educators will bring their best each and every day to make this year the absolute best for

each child.

Bishop Checchio stated many years ago that the decision to enroll a child in a Catholic school speaks volumes about the love that parents have for their child. The child will be nurtured in a community of faith that will support the firm foundation that is provided at home. The Bishop’s words ring true now more than ever.

From Phillipsburg to Perth Amboy, Basking Ridge to Old Bridge, and all our schools in between, we are delighted to open the doors of our buildings with pride and joy as we begin the 2023-2024 school year. Schools in the Diocese of Metuchen will continue to shine as beacons of excellence as we enrich the mind, spirit and character of our students.

Barbara Stevens Superintendent of Schools

Joseph Diskin Assistant Superintendent of Schools

Sister Mary Louise Shulas Director of Curriculum and Instruction

Students in St. Francis Cathedral School, Metuchen, are ready for classroom work in three photos above, while students in St. Bartholomew School, East Brunswick, practice teamwork and strengthen their bodies using a colorful parachute . —Photos courtesy of St. Francis Cathedral School and St. Bartholomew School.

For new principal in Holy Savior, prayer anchors school day

Principal Locquiao invites all to partner with God in Catholic education

By Paul J. Peyton Correspondent

Although she said she will miss teaching, Lisa Dell’ Aquila is looking forward to her first principal position at Holy Savior Academy, South Plainfield, a pre-kindergarten to grade 8 school with a student population of 140 and a staff of 15.

Dell’ Aquila comes from St. John the Apostle School, Clark, in the Archdiocese of Newark, where she has been a second- and third-grade teacher since 2016. Prior to that she was an educator for 16 years with the Elizabeth Public Schools. She also taught religious education at both St. John the Apostle School and the since-shuttered St. Agnes School, Clark.

When asked about additions she would like to bring to Holy Savior, Dell’ Aquila said she would like to add a few more clubs to the school’s after-school program. She also plans to take advantage of the school’s underused science lab with hands-on programs.

“I want them (students) in there at least once or twice a week in the labs doing activities, especially with the middle school (grades),” she said. “I also (want to) open it up to the second-, third- and fourth-grade teachers.”

Dell’ Aquila also will be implementing what she called a “Thinking Classroom in Mathamatics,” a curriculum developed by Peter Liljedahl, which, she said, makes math fun for children by getting them to think and do problem solving. She will be working with fourththrough eighth-grade teachers to develop the program.

She said the Holy Savior school day begins with a daily opening prayer in the

auditorium. Prayers are also said throughout the day in the classrooms. The school day ends with a closing prayer by each of the teachers. Holy Savior also has a monthly First Friday Mass as well as prayer services led by a different grade each month and Confessions with priests from Sacred Heart Church, South Plainfield.

Dell’ Aquila said she wants to have the grades 3 through 8 attend Mass at least once a week. She also will be bringing back the Living Rosary in October. Also on the school calendar is a Christmas Pageant in December and the May Crowning.

“Catholic Schools Week is a very big deal (at Holy Savior). I’ve already spoken to the staff (and) told to them to think about some ideas,” she said, noting that any new events would be in addition to the school’s volleyball game and a book fair.

Dell’ Aquila said she is guided by her Catholic faith daily.

“I worship in the Adoration Chapel once a week… I think that prayer is important in your life; [having] Jesus in your life. It centers me, grounds me,” Dell’ Aquila said. “If you don’t have faith I don’t know what you turn to.”

When asked why Catholic education is important to her, she said: “I like the idea that we can share our Catholic identity (and) bring the teachings of Jesus into the classroom …That’s really why I came back to the Catholic school (Saint John the Apostle) … And I think you get a solid education.”

Dell’ Aquila holds a bachelor’s degree in history and a minor in marketing from St. Peter’s University, Jersey City, and a master’s degree in instruction and curriculum from Kean University, Union. She received her teacher certification in elementary education in 1998, a principal certification in 2008, and a school administrator certificate in 2010.

Gerald Wutkowski Jr. photos

By Christina Leslie Contributing Editor

Ask Jay Locquiao, the new principal of St. Francis Cathedral School, why he chose to leave his career in public school teaching to embark on the road to Catholic school leadership, and you’ll hear him give praise to the Almighty.

“I believe it was a calling by God to make the transition,” he said. “I believe the mission of Catholic education is to deliver an academically rigorous instruction and mutually form a relationship with Jesus Christ that transforms their lives.”

Partnering in this mission is the Metuchen elementary school’s extended family of staff, teachers, aides and others, he continued.

“We are committed to the development of our students’ spiritual and intellectual formation. We deliver a unique and profound educational experience that meets the needs of all of our students, and provides a daily encounter with Jesus Christ.” Locquiao said. “We are also equally committed to developing the virtues of respect, justice, and responsibility in our students, as we prepare them to be leaders in our school and community.”

Locquiao is a 2016 graduate of Rutgers University’s School of Arts and Sciences, New Brunswick, where he earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and minored in education. He earned a master’s degree in special and elementary education from Rutgers’ Graduate School of Education, as well as completing Rutgers’ Learning Disability Teaching Consultant Certification Program. Locquiao earned a master’s degree in educational leadership from Montclair State University, Montclair, and is pursuing a doctorate in education from the University of New England, Biddeford, Maine.

Prior to joining the St. Francis Cathedral School staff, Locquiao served in the East Brunswick Public School system as a special education teacher and the Monroe Township Public School system as a learning disability teacher consultant. He served six years in Rochelle Park Township as an emergency medical technician.

Locquiao and his wife, Jennifer, have been married for four years and have a 2-1/2-year-old daughter, Nennolina. Their home parish is St. Ann’s in Raritan.

The Cathedral school, winner of a National Blue Ribbon for Excellence in 2017, currently educates nearly 440 students from PreK3 to eighth grade. Locquiao’s list of goals include “learning the rich traditions and history of the school and working with community in preparation of the school’s 100th anniversary” in 2028.

In his welcome letter to prospective parents, Loc invites all to “Come and see the life- changing experience of a vibrant and rigorous Catholic education, where the hearts and minds of our students are formed to recognize their identity as children of God, Jesus in the Eucharist, and the plan that God has for their lives.”

Support and prayers from families is also crucial; the principal continued, “We believe that your accompaniment as a parent or guardian is imperative to moving forward our mission of providing our students a joyful, transformative, and scholarly Catholic education.”

Finally, Locquiao also invites the young Catholics who wear the school uniforms emblazoned with the St. Francis Cathedral name to do their part. “Your life has a purpose,” he tells his young charges. “Cultivate your heart and mind to fulfill your calling.”

Incoming principal for Phillipsburg school attributes new position to faith in God

Prayer for principals

Loving God,

We come to you in gratitude today

Giving thanks for fellowship and friendship

And the promise of a new school year full of hopes and plans

We welcome our new principals into our family and ask that you bless them and guide them as they begin their journey with us.

By Anthony Salamone Correspondent

Patricia A. Bell, the new principal at Sts. Philip and James School, Phillipsburg, said God wanted the longtime teacher to return to college and study to become a principal.

“I was called to do more as I developed positive relationships with all in my care,” she said.

So, after graduating in 1986 with a bachelor’s degree in education, she returned to the classroom to earn a master’s degree in educational leadership from Centenary College, now University, in Hackettstown – 25 years later.

Talk about perseverance and persistence: Bell possesses those qualities, but she also prides herself on being disciplined, motivated and goal-oriented, while also keeping open the lines of communication.

“If I set a goal, we’re going to do it, and I’m going to rely on my team,” Bell said during an interview in her office Aug. 28, shortly after her first staff meeting.

Bell is understandably enthusiastic while acknowledging she is learning as much as she can about the Warren County school. She replaced Donna Kuscinski, who retired after years as a teacher and later Sts. Philip and James principal.

Though this is her first educational role in the Diocese, Bell, who is a member of St. Joseph Parish, Washington, has built an extensive resume in parochial and public schools in the region.

“I loved teaching, but I wanted to do more,” she said about becoming a principal, her office decorated with religious and family mementos, as well as framed art and other memorabilia from her beloved New York Yankees. “I wanted to help more, and I felt that I had the gifts to do that.”

Bell said being a principal is hard, but she compared it to an adrenaline rush of a track sprinter, a sport in which she competed at Jefferson Township High School in Oak Ridge, Morris County. Growing up the second of four children of Judy and the late Jack Doyle, her par-

ents and others in her family worked as educators, instilling in her the passion to teach, she said.

Like a sprinter who fails to medal, Bell has also known hardship. When her public-school administrative position was eliminated in 2021, Bell was left wondering about her future.

“Difficult was an understatement,” Bell said of the job loss. But she never lost faith that God would help her find something else. She worked in interimand substitute-principal capacities at another public school district before seeing the principal opening for Sts. Philip and James in her church bulletin.

“And I kept seeing it,” she said. “It was kind of like [God] was speaking to me.” She said getting hired to lead the Phillipsburg school was “probably one of the best decisions in my life.”

Sts. Philip and James School sits on more than 20 acres off a busy highway in Phillipsburg, with 130 students in pre-K through eighth grade. Its campus once served as Phillipsburg Catholic and later All Saints Regional High Schools before closing nearly 30 years ago, but the elementary program has continued in the tradition of academic excellence, spiritual growth, Christian service and personal development. The parish has had a school since 1875, not many years after its founding.

Every year, Bell said, she hands out “signature” pens to people with a theme. This year, being in a Roman Catholic setting, Bell’s gift pen includes the green from the school’s dominant color and a quote from the second letter of St. Peter: “Grow in the grace and knowledge of our Lord.”

That’s a goal of Bell’s: Build on the school’s foundation while injecting new ideas in a collaborative leadership style, so that all might grow in grace and knowledge of God, enabling the school to flourish.

Anthony Salamone photo

Bless and guide those of us who join them today as we seek to share our well-worn and well-intentioned paths with them, and as we delight in learning what new things they have to teach us.

Help us to be present and compassionate for those for whom new beginnings bring fear and uncertainty. Lead us in all the work we do so that our students may reap the benefits of our collective wisdom and experience. And let us all marvel in the joy of being and working together for the good of the children entrusted to our care.

Amen

Adapted from Xavier.edu/jesuitresource

For teachers and students

Lord our God, in your wisdom and love you surround us with the mysteries of the universe. In times long past you sent us your prophets to teach your laws and to bear witness to your undying love.

You sent us your Son to teach us by word and example that true wisdom comes from you alone. Send your Spirit upon all students and their teachers and fill them with your wisdom and blessings. Grant that during this academic year they may devote themselves to their studies and share what they have learned from others. Grant this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

the first day was the herald of opportunity and new creations. It is no different in Catholic schools. First days of every new school year bring new classrooms, new teachers, new friends, new challenges and new opportunities for learning and growth. • For students and their families in the 22 Catholic elementary schools and four Catholic high schools in the Diocese, first days are also a reminder that they are children of God who belong to a caring, Catholic community of faith.

St. Ambrose School, Old Bridge

St. Joseph School, Carteret St. Joseph School, Carteret

St. Augustine of Canterbury School, Kendall Park

St. Thomas the Apostle School, Old Bridge

St. Augustine of Canterbury School

Immaculata High School, Somerville

Perth Amboy Catholic School

Perth Amboy Catholic School

St. Matthew the Apostle School, Edison

St. Helena School, Edison

St. Helena School, Edison

St. James School, Basking Ridge

St. James School, Basking Ridge

Catholic schools see strong growth amid a community of care

By Gina Christian, OSV News

(OSV News) – As they open their doors for a new academic year, the nation’s Catholic schools are enjoying overall strong growth, along with a firm commitment to mission, experts told OSV News.

“Our school system has grown two years in a row,” said Lincoln Snyder, president and CEO of the National Catholic Educational Association.

Based in Leesburg, Virginia, the NCEA, an organization which traces its origins to a 1904 conference held in St. Louis, represents close to 140,000 Catholic educators serving 1.6 million students.

Snyder told OSV News that Catholic schools in the U.S. on balance experienced a bump in enrollment amid the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, with a 3.8% growth from 2021-2022 and 0.3% growth during the 2022-2023 year.

In addition, “most retention rates are pretty high,” said Snyder. “Dioceses last year retained 93% to 98% of students who came (during) COVID.”

The Diocese of Arlington, Virginia, for example, has seen a three-year rise in enrollment, with the overall student population – now at 18,400 in 41 diocesan schools – up 10% since the 2020-2021 academic year.

Snyder attributed such sustained growth to factors that transcended the pandemic.

“By all indications, families who came to Catholic schools were very happy with the community and they established relationships” with the schools, he said. “Once people have children in a positive environment, they tend not to change it.”

At the same time, some Catholic schools saw an uptick in numbers due to straightforward demographic shifts, he said. While declines “tended to be in the Northeast and the Midwest ... most of our growth was seen in southeastern Florida, and some in the (U.S.) Southwest,” said Snyder.

“We’ve recovered from the pandemic and then some,” said Jim Rigg, superintendent of Catholic schools and secretary of education for the Archdiocese of Miami. “We have the highest enrollment in eight years, up about 3.6% year over year.”

One formerly closed school – St. Malachy in Tamarac, Florida – has even reopened for the 2023-2024 academic year after a 14-year hiatus, he said.

Rigg cited an influx of new Florida residents as one factor in enrollment surges. According to the U.S. Census Bureau, Florida is the nation’s third most populous state, as well as the fastest-growing one.

“Substantial numbers of people move here from the northern U.S., and we have continuous waves of immigration from Latin America and the Caribbean, the majority of whom identify as Catholic,” he told OSV News.

Schools in the Diocese of Metuchen join their counterparts across the nation in offering an academically rigorous and faith-filled education. At top, second grade students in St. James School, Basking Ridge, are eager to participate in class, while at bottom, St. Bartholomew School, East Brunswick, students are all smiles this year. —Courtesy photos

Christopher Pastura, superintendent of Catholic schools for the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Florida, agreed. He said Florida’s “robust school choice programs” also have worked to fill classrooms.

“Florida has moved to a 100% choice scholarship program, so everybody has access to that regardless of income,” Pastura told OSV News. “It’s helped our lowand middle-income folks be able to afford

have seen strong growth and – in contrast to national trends – little learning loss during the COVID-19 pandemic, as evidenced by standardized testing.

“Ensuring every school can support students with identified special needs is a vital part of our Catholic mission, to serve all who wish to come to our schools,” said Rigg.

Along with expanding access, school administrators with whom OSV News spoke are focused on addressing both mental health and school security concerns.

While their students are not immune from national increases in mental health challenges – a trend highlighted by Surgeon General Vivek Murthy in a 2021 advisory – Catholic schools, equipped with psychological and spiritual resources, can provide a strongly supportive environment for students and families navigating such issues.

“Often we hear families say, ‘Thank God this happened in a Catholic school, because there is a community of care,’” said Rigg. “(The) community will rally around a family in crisis.”

School security also is a priority for Rigg, given the 2018 mass shooting at Marjory Stoneman Douglas High School in Parkland, Florida, which killed 17.

“That weighs heavily on the psyche of everyone in South Florida,” said Rigg, whose safety investments include on-site police officers, cameras and enhanced standards for ensuring campus doors are locked appropriately.

But the biggest draw at many schools is the fundamental nature of Catholic education itself, said experts.

“When you create the type of Catholic culture that people want to be part of, you don’t have to worry about enrollment,” said Kevin Ferdinandt, headmaster of St. Agnes School in St. Paul, Minnesota.

The preK-12 school draws students from dozens of area ZIP codes, drawing from “a really broad area” and functioning “a lot like a regional school,” he told OSV News.

Admitting that St. Agnes had “almost closed in 2007” due to financial struggles, Ferdinandt said the school revisited its roots – and bore fruit as a result.

a Catholic school education.”

Making Catholic education accessible to students with disabilities also is key, said Andrew McLaughlin, secretary for elementary education at the Archdiocese of Philadelphia.

“We are really pushing for full inclusion for children with disabilities, rather than have separate schools for them,” said McLaughlin, whose schools

“We’ve got a very clear mission, and we serve Catholic families that are really serious about engaging their kids in education, and making sure their kids get a chance to learn what we as Catholics really believe,” he said. “If we’re going to call ourselves a Catholic school and not be serious about teaching the faith ... then we’re just private schools with a religion department. We worked hard for a lot of years to establish an extraordinary student and faculty culture (of Catholic education), and with that came the success of our school.”

“Our first role as Catholic schools is forming disciples,” said Snyder. “We are a ministry of the Church, and we want to form children who love Jesus Christ.”

“When you create the type of Catholic culture that people want to be a part of, you don’t have to worry about enrollment.”

PAC students thrive in theater arts, liturgical dance ministry

Under the direction of Michelle Diaz, middle school language arts and Spanish teacher, Perth Amboy Catholic School provides exciting liturgical dance ministry and summer theater arts programs. Inspired by the story of King David, Diaz has always felt called to worship God through dance.

Established in 2021 as extracurricular activities, student enthusiasm and participation has increased to currently forty-five students in liturgical dance and forty in the theater program in grades four to eight.

Both clubs meet weekly throughout the year. Several students participate in both activities. The theater program kicks into high gear during summer camp with a musical adaptation of a Disney production. This year’s production of “The Little Mermaid Jr.” was a tremendous success.

The liturgical dance group has performed for the guests at the school’s

chapel, and Shadow Stations of the Cross at Lent. Many liturgical dance students participated in the Consecration of Mary, held during a special Mass in May. These programs have shown students that there are many ways to pray that bring joy.

An encore performance of the Little

Sept. 22 at 6 p.m. A performance at Our Lady of Fatima is to be rescheduled. Tickets are $10. Call or email to reserve tickets: 732-442-9533 or mdiaz@pa catholicschool.org.

Perth Amboy Catholic students sur round, Edwina Andreyko, a resident of the home in Woodbridge. Pictured from left to right are dancers: Helen Kovaleski, Gabriella Franco, Analise Diaz, Jordan Ramos, and Karianne Munoz.

Immaculate Conception School in Annandale exists as a gift to God’s children, to prepare them to live a life with Jesus the Good Shepherd as their teacher and friend. Inspired by the Holy Spirit, and through the intercession of Mary, the school seeks to foster in each student spiritual growth, academic excellence, and moral integrity

• Recipient of multiple honors “National Blue Ribbon”, Spotlight School – Dioceses of Metuchen, “Hunterdon Happenings Best Schools” across multiple categories and sequential years

• Balance of traditional and digital learning

• Intimate but variable class sizes based on age and curriculum

• Ongoing enrichment initiatives including STEM/Innovation Lab, Eco Schools, pending Green Ribbon Certification

• Catholic-centered with families of all faiths welcomed

Photo courtesy of Perth Amboy Catholic

Mount Saint Mary

Fall Retreats Upcoming programs offered by Mount St. Mary House of Prayer in Watchung

1. Tuesday, Sept. 12, 9:30 a.m.-3 p.m. Sacred Time, Sacred Space

A personal, quiet day to enjoy God’s presence. Day begins with communal prayer. Bring a bag lunch. ($20-$30 as you are able)

2. Wednesday, Sept. 13, 1:30-3 p.m. Drumming Ecstasy Circle

Music is one of the most glorious gifts of God. God uses drumming to enhance his powers to improve our health, lives – the essence of our being. Learn how to connect deeply with God through Rhythm. Second Wed. of each month ($20-$30 as you are able) Presenter: Barbara Woodzell

3. Wednesday, Sept. 20, 7-9 p.m. Hybrid Practicing the Presence of God with Difficult People

Open House

ministry of spiritual direction. We will witness a supervision session and engage about cases we might be bringing. The day is for directors, supervisors and those seeking supervision. Lunch is included. ($50-$60 as you are able) Presenters: Sister Nancy Sheridan, SASV and Father Thomas McMurray, SJ

8. Wednesday, Oct. 11, 1:30-3 p.m. Drumming Ecstasy Circle

Jesus tells us to love our neighbor and even our enemies. While we may not have enemies per se, we definitely all have neighbors who are difficult to love. Discover what makes people difficult and the connection between practicing the presence of God and dealing with difficult people and learn how to live out the Golden Rule. ($20-$30 as you are able)

Presenter: Connie Palmer, LCSW

4. Tuesday, Sept. 26, 7-8:30 p.m. Hybrid Male Spirituality Program - What does it mean to be a good Christian man? What can committed Christian men offer the world? ($20-$30 as you are able)

Presenter: Dr. Steven Serafin

5. Tuesday, Oct. 3, 7-8:30 p.m. Hybrid Monthly Series: Contemplative Nonviolent Prayer & PracticeIntroduction to Contemplation and Contemplative Living

Today the words “Contemplative Living” are popular, but what do these words mean? This monthly series explores in depth ways to nurture our prayer life and how to live the abundant, holistic life that Jesus has promised us. First Tuesday of the month, 7-8:30 pm (Per session – $20-30 as you are able)

Presenter: Rev. Joseph Kerrigan

6. Thursday, Oct. 5, 19, 3-4 p.m. Virtual Tea

Join us on Zoom for an hour of Lectio Divina prayer, conversation and small group sharing. First and third Thursday of each month

7. Tuesday, Oct. 10, 10 am – 3 p.m. Hybrid Annual Professional Day for Spiritual Directors: Supervision - An Embrace of Mystery During this day of reflection and enrichment we will look at the role and importance of supervision within the

Music is one of the most glorious gifts of God. God uses drumming to enhance his powers to improve our health, lives – the essence of our being. Learn how to connect deeply with God through rhythm. Second Wednesday of each month ($20$30 as you are able) Presenter: Barbara Woodzell

9. Friday, Oct. 13, 10-11:30 a.m. Hybrid Spiritual Awakenings Video Club

There are many great spiritual masters of our time. Richard Rohr, OFM, and others have works that have touched millions of God-seekers. Join this monthly video club and share your insights and prayerful responses to the works of Father Rohr and others. Second Friday of each month ($20-$30 as you are able)

10. Friday, Oct. 13-15 Silent Directed Retreat Weekend

11. Wednesday, Oct. 18, 7-8:30 p.m. Hybrid

10th Annual Major Speaker: Sister Helen Prejean

Sister Helen Prejean, world-acclaimed author and speaker, is known around the world for her tireless work against the death penalty. She has been instrumental in sparking national dialogue on capital punishment and in shaping the Catholic Church’s vigorous opposition to all executions. Sister Helen will be on Zoom; limited in person participation is available.

Information and registration for all Mount Saint Mary House of Prayer offerings can be found on www.msmhope.org. Call 908-753-2091 or email at msmhope@ msmhope.org.

Registration for all offerings is required 10 days in advance to avoid the program being cancelled. Register and pay for any program at www.msmhope.org.

Catechetical Sunday Masses to include commissioning of catechists

By EmmaLee Italia Contributing Editor

Those designated by their parish communities to serve as catechists will be commissioned for their ministry Sept. 17, marked worldwide as Catechetical Sunday, when the Catholic Church recognizes the essential role of catechists in passing on the faith and witnessing to the Gospel.

During Masses that weekend, catechists will be called forth and given the opportunity to recommit themselves to their mission, as their congregations pray over them and ask for God to bless their work.

Church has a profound dignity, which is why catechists are formally commissioned by the Church,” the USCCB website states. “It is only fitting that we set aside a day to highlight this ministry and invite the entire church community to think about our responsibility to share our faith with others.”

A Prayer for Catechists

Loving Father, we pray today for our catechists. We thank you for their gift of ministry in your Church. Grant them your wisdom that they may grow in the understanding and teaching of your Word. Grant them also your love that they may be fruitful heralds of your Word and lead others to love you.

We pray this through Christ, our Lord. Amen

Catechesis – “the act of resounding or bringing the Church’s teachings to the world” as described on the website for the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops – receives special distinction in the Church. As the Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “Catechesis is intimately bound up with the whole of the Church’s life . . . her inner growth and correspondence with God’s plan depend essentially on catechesis” (no. 7).

The word “catechesis” has roots in Greek, meaning “to echo, or resound.” It is the act of bringing the Church’s teachings to the world; a catechist is one who teaches in the name of the Church. “This ministry of teaching in the name of the

Parents, too, are included in the Catechetical Sunday celebration as the primary catechists for their children, as they “prepare the soil and plant the first seeds of faith,” the USCCB describes. “On Catechetical Sunday, we not only highlight the work of catechists in parishes and schools, but we also commend parents and guardians and encourage them to take seriously their role of making their Catholic households a place where faith is passed on to the next generation.

This is why the rite of blessing of catechists used on Catechetical Sunday includes an optional blessing of parents and guardians.” Catechetical Sunday traces its roots to 1935, when the Vatican published a document (“On the Better Care and Promotion of Catechetical Education”) urging every country to recognize the importance of passing on the Catholic faith and honor those who teach it. In the early 1970s, the USCCB began publishing materials to aid and encourage parishes to celebrate Catechetical Sunday at the local level.

Obituary Father J. Maciej Melaniuk, retired priest of the Diocese

Bishop James F. Checchio will celebrate a Memorial Mass for the repose of the soul of Father J. Maciej Melaniuk, a retired priest of the Diocese, Sept. 22, at 11 a.m. in Our Lady of Czestochowa Church, South Plainfield. Father Melaniuk died Sept. 9 in Poland. He was 72 years old.

Father Melaniuk, a native of Poland, attended Ss. Cyril and Methodius Seminary, Orchard Lake, Mich., and was ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Metuchen on May 31, 1986. He served at Sacred Heart Parish, South Plainfield; St. Stephen Parish, Perth Amboy; St. Joseph Parish, North Plainfield; Our Lady of Victories Parish, Sayreville; St. Mary of Ostrabrama Parish, South River, and St. Bernard of Clairvaux Parish, Bridgewater. In 1998 he was named pastor of St. Stephen Protomartyr Parish, South River,

Vocations expert sees hope for vocations even amid secularism

HUNTINGTON, N.Y. (OSV News) – A decrease in religious belief remains a “significant challenge” in cultivating religious vocations, said a vocations expert at a recent conference. Diocesan vocations directors continue “to work against a culture of secularism in which the purpose and meaning of one’s life for so many of our young people ... is defined by themselves,” Father Chuck Dornquast, director of vocations for the Diocese of St. Petersburg, Florida, told OSV News.

Father Dornquast shared his thoughts during the Aug. 28-Sept. 1 convention for the National Conference of Diocesan Vocation Directors, or NCDVD, of which the priest is vice president. Founded in 1962, the national conference works closely

DISCIPLES

with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to promote and support vocations to the priesthood.

The convention, now in its 60th year, drew more than 218 priests, some 20 men and women religious, and lay men and women from six countries to the Immaculate Conception Retreat Center in Huntington, NCDVD executive director Rose Sullivan told OSV News. “Prayer, fraternity and conversations about the sacred ministry of vocations” were at the heart of the gathering, said Sullivan.

The solidarity experienced at the convention bolstered participants for the work of inviting young adults to consider vocations that are diametrically at odds with the prevailing culture, said Father Dornquast.

Cum Laude Students

On Sept. 8, Jacqueline Muratore, assistant directress for Faculty, Curriculum, and Planning, and Elizabeth Roper, director of College Counseling, provided the following seniors at Mount St. Mary Academy, Watchung, with their letters of invitation to the Cum Laude Society. Pictured, left to right, are, front, Zoe Schack, Westfield; Lillian DelRossi, Union; Rachel Castela, Lebanon, and, back, Victoria Fekete, Livingston; Nina Heim, Westfield; Caitlyn Falkowski, Scotch Plains, and Zoe Daly, Piscataway.

Photo courtesy Mount St. Mary Academy

Aidan Hauersper, a seminarian of the Archdiocese of Indianapolis, prays Morning Prayer May 4, 2023, in the St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel at St. Meinrad Seminary and School of Theology in St. Meinrad, Ind. —OSV News photo/courtesy St. Meinrad Archabbey

WORLD & NATION

Charity is motivated by love, not designed to win converts, pope says

ULAANBAATAR, Mongolia – Pope Francis ended his four-day visit to Mongolia where Catholic missionaries began – with charity. Blessing the new House of Mercy in Ulaanbaatar Sept. 4, the Pope insisted that while Catholic charitable and social service activities have attracted Mongolians to the church, the service is motivated by love alone. Pope Francis used his speech to the charity workers and volunteers “to reject certain myths,” including one about why Catholics offer education and health care, feed the hungry, shelter

the homeless and care for widows and orphans. A big myth, he said, is that “the Catholic Church, distinguished throughout the world for its great commitment to works of social promotion, does all this to proselytize, as if caring for others were a way of enticing people to ‘join up.’ No! Christians do whatever they can to alleviate the suffering of the needy because in the person of the poor they acknowledge Jesus, the son of God, and, in him, the dignity of each person, called to be a son or daughter of God,” the pope insisted.

Pope Francis greets a child as he arrives at the inauguration of the House of Mercy in Ulaanbaatar, Mongolia, the final event of his four-day trip to Mongolia before returning to Rome Sept. 4, 2023.

CNS photo/Vatican Media

delegation sees hard realities, pastoral needs of farmworkers

Migrant farmworkers share their experiences with the U.S. bishops’ delegation on August 28, 2023, as Father Jesús Mariscal (far right), parochial vicar at St. Paul Cathedral in Yakima, Wash., looks on. OSV News photo/courtesy of Ana Contreras and USCCB

YAKIMA, Wash. – “The church doesn’t have a mission; the mission has a church,” said Bishop Joseph J. Tyson of the Diocese of Yakima, not quite pounding the table. Later, he told the group, “Our migrant ministry is the model for all of our ministries – the parish is bigger than the building.” A group of 24 modern apostles were able to witness a glimpse of this during an Aug. 28-29 pastoral visit organized by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Subcommittee on Pastoral Care of Migrants, Refugees and Travelers. Participants from the USCCB, the Catholic Migrant Farmworker Network and related ministries met in Yakima to witness, support, and learn from the ministry carried out by the diocese. They visited both the work and living sites of some of the Mexican-born agricultural workers who grow and harvest the fruit and vegetables that Washington state ships around the

world. While about 70% of farmworkers are year-round residents of Washington, and make up a substantial percentage of Catholic parishioners in the Yakima Diocese, the rest either follow the harvest, or are here on an H-2A temporary agricultural visa. In either case, they are often separated from the support of their home community for months at a time. “They are homesick, anxious and can’t sleep sometimes,” said Father Jesús Mariscal, parochial vicar at Yakima’s St. Paul Cathedral. “There is a lot of ministry to be done in these little communities. It is only by being there, that you can discover how to help.” In Wenatchee, about two hours drive from Yakima, Sandra Barros of St. Joseph Catholic Church, described their ministry. “We bring food, and diapers for the families, but most of all, we bring the Sacraments,” she said. “They feel we are with them.”

Compiled from Our Sunday Visitor and the Catholic News Service

Jewell Baggett and her husband, Brian Cunningham, pick through the wreckage of the home built by Jewell’s grandfather in Horseshoe Beach, Fla., Aug. 30, 2023. The home was reduced to rubble by Hurricane Idalia, which made landfall in Florida’s Big Bend region early Aug. 30 as a Category 3 hurricane. —OSV News photo/Cheney Orr, Reuters

PERRY, Florida – Catholic aid workers are rolling up their sleeves to help tens of thousands after Tropical Storm Idalia slammed into the nation’s Southeast. “I just feel horrible for residents, that they had to go through this,” Matthew Knee, president and CEO of Catholic Charities of Northwest Florida, told OSV News. Initially a Category 4 hurricane, Idalia made landfall Aug. 30, hitting Florida’s Big Bend area –where the state’s panhandle meets its peninsula – as a Category 3 hurricane, and the largest to touch down in the Big Bend area in more than 125 years. Idalia weakened to a tropical storm Aug. 30 as it tore through the Southeast U.S. before heading into the

Atlantic Aug. 31. Although no fatalities as yet have been reported, Idalia caused flooding, wind damage and record-level storm surges, leaving more than 400,000 customers in Florida, Georgia and South Carolina without power. Knee, who spoke with OSV News by phone as he visited affected communities, said Catholic Charities was working to provide both immediate emergency assistance as well as long-term recovery, as part of “(keeping) people in their homes and in their communities” and “serving the poorest of the poor.” That work is “in our blood; it’s who we are and what we do,” said Knee. “We

Polish family’s beatification highlights debate over Church’s wartime role

WARSAW, Poland – When Józef and Wiktoria Ulma are beatified with their children Sept. 10, eight decades after they were shot by Nazis for sheltering Jews in their farmhouse near the village of Markowa in southeastern Poland, it will be a graphic reminder of the heroism shown by many Catholic Poles during the Holocaust. “Under communism, no public discussion was allowed about what really happened here during World War II – systematic research only started later,” explained Father Piotr Mazurkiewicz, a former secretary-general of COMECE, the Commission of the Bishops’ Conferences of the European Union. “This lack of a Polish voice in post-War debates on the Holocaust generated false views about events in Poland,” the priest said. “In today’s secularized conditions, things are changing – there’s growing interest in why people risked their lives for others, very often in acts of religious witness.” The case of the Ulmas, who were shot and thrown in a ditch with their six small children in March 1944 for hiding local Jews in Markowa, is just one of many brought to light by recent research. Wiktoria was pregnant with the couple’s seventh child, and villagers who buried the bodies report that Wiktoria had begun to give birth during the massacre.

Franciszek, who is sitting on the lap of Edward Ulma, a cousin of the children’s father, Józef Ulma. All seven children of the Ulma family were beatified with their parents Sept. 10, 2023, in Markowa. —OSV News photo/courtesy Institute of National Remembrance

And while some experts have warned against exaggerating the extent of help given to Jews, others have welcomed the opportunity to establish a more accurate record of wartime events.” Alina Petrowa-Wasilewicz, a Catholic journalist and author, told OSV News, “Proper work is now being done, taking Polish perspectives into account and the heavy price paid by many, including hundreds of priests and nuns who risked their lives to rescue persecuted Jews.”

U.S. bishops’

As ‘hands and feet of Christ,’ Catholic Charities helps Floridians ravaged by Idalia

September 6, 2023

One might ask: why did the Pope go so far [Mongolia] to visit a small flock of the faithful? Because it is precisely there, far from the spotlight, that we often find the signs of the presence of God, who does not look at appearances, but at the heart, as we have heard in the passage from the prophet Samuel (cf. 1 Sam 16:7). The Lord does not look for the centre-stage, but the simple heart of those who desire him and love him without ostentation, without wanting to tower above others. And I had the grace of meeting, in Mongolia, a humble Church, and a joyful Church, which is in the heart of God, and I can testify to their joy of finding themselves also at the centre of the Church for a few days.

That community has a touching history. It came about, by the grace of God, from the apostolic zeal … of a few missionaries who, impassioned by the Gospel, went about thirty years ago to that country they did not know. They learned the language and, despite coming from different nations, gave life to a united and truly Catholic community. Indeed, this is the meaning of the word “catholic”, which means “universal”. But it is not a universality that homogenizes, but rather a universality that inculturates, it is a universality that is inculturated. This is catholicity: an embodied universality, “inculturate”, which embraces the good where it is found and serves the people with whom it lives.

Honing our skills as wise elders, spiritual grandparents

As a kid I always associated two things with the first day of school – getting new shoes and having to write about what I did during summer vacation.

My siblings and I never really had exceptional summer adventures but I have fond memories of beach outings, camping trips, museum visits, swimming lessons and hours spent playing with the other kids in the neighborhood.

It’s been many years since I got new school shoes or wrote about my summer vacation but this summer, I did something exceptional. Although I have been a Little Sister for over 35 years, in July, I went away to camp for the very first time!

Along with another member of my community and 15 other women religious, I participated in a discernment camp for high school girls sponsored by the Diocese of Arlington, Virginia.

Our days at camp were filled with sports activities and team challenges, crafts and plenty of Gen Z-centered conversation. We also had daily Mass, Rosary, eucharistic adoration and lively spiritual talks given by the sisters.

Along with college-age volunteers, each pair of women religious was responsible for a dozen or so high school

girls throughout the week.

Our days were jam-packed with activities and the heat was sweltering but I thought I was doing pretty well keeping up with the girls. Then towards the end of the week, one of the young women – a very lively, outgoing teen – called me our team’s grandmother! That was a blow to my ego – “Not an older sister or your mother, but your grandmother?” I asked. “Really?”

“Grandmothers are so kind and supportive,” she replied. “They try to make each person feel special. That’s what you’ve been doing for us.”

This young woman’s insight was a real consolation to me.

Later, during adoration, I reflected on this conversation, a bit ashamed of myself. I realized that the ageism that infects our society has also affected me.

As someone who has devoted my life to advocating for older persons, I should have been honored to be identified as grandmotherly!

I thought about our foundress, Saint Jeanne Jugan, who identified completely with the elderly poor to whom she had offered a home.

I was also reminded of the testimo-

nies of the young Little Sisters who had lived with Jeanne Jugan during the long years at the motherhouse when she was no longer recognized as the foundress.

Her young companions thought she was just another elderly Sister living among them but they loved her dearly because she was so good to them. Many years later they still remembered her kindness, many testifying for her canonization process.

“Ah! If you only knew how good she was! She was so gentle … She spoke firmly when necessary but she thought no more about it afterwards.” …“Her charity touched the hearts of all; we were at ease with her, like a mother in her family, and each one could say to herself: ‘How kind she is; she loved me!’”

As I continued to reflect on the life and example of our foundress, I felt honored to be identified by a young person as “grandmotherly.” Realizing I would never make my mark on either the soccer field or the volleyball court, I really had been trying to take an interest in each young woman and lend each one a listening ear and I was grateful to know they had appreciated my efforts.

This is what young people are really

looking for as they mature into adulthood and seek to discern their vocation in life. We can do them and the Church a great service by honing our skills as wise elders, spiritual grandmothers and grandfathers.

Pope Francis often speaks of just this. Talking to journalists at World Youth Day, he said the main issue related to the young is knowing how to accompany them and that grandparents are better at this than parents.

Speaking directly to young people in Lisbon, he said that grandparents are “rays of light” and “the roots of our joy.”

To be a ray of light or a root of joy –what beautiful ideals for which to strive as we age!

Sister Constance Veit is the communications director for the Little Sisters of the Poor in the United States and an occupational therapist.

Encouraging and exhibiting respect for the Holy Name of Jesus

Philippi that God had bestowed on Jesus “the name that is above every name” and that, at the mention of that name, “every knee should bend, of those on earth and under the earth….”

Wind” was released. “Damn” was allowed because it had been used in the original work – Margaret Mitchell’s novel.

quarters, but they are often ridiculed. So, it would be idle for us to expect more sensitivity from producers or script writers.

A parishioner once asked me why I frequently nod my head during a liturgy. For a second or two, I didn’t know what she meant, but then I realized she was referring to a slight bow any time the name of Jesus was mentioned.

This is a gesture that was engrained in me during religious education in the 1940s and 1950s. It was so engrained, in fact, that I am only sometimes conscious that I am doing it.

Perhaps because it was presented to me in this context, I have always associated that gesture with St. Paul’s admonition to the Christian community in

I was thinking about this recently, prompted by the Diane Keaton movie “Pom” in which, before I fell asleep, I heard – at least twice – characters casually respond to some situation by blurting, “Jesus Christ!”

I’m old enough to remember when that would not occur in a movie or television show; now, it is commonplace and, thanks to cable channels and streaming, that includes television.

I also remember the often-told story in our family that my grandmother went to see “Gone with the Wind” in 1939 and, because she heard the word “damn” twice in that film, never went to a movie again. In fact, there was a kerfuffle in the movie industry over the use of that word. The censors objected to it, but the movie code was amended before “Gone with the

From our point of view in 2023, banning the word “damn” might seem like overkill. In fact, banning words at all – whether in movies, television, or song lyrics – is no longer in vogue.

The name of Jesus and “damn,” however, are in different categories. In a perfect world, movie makers would recognize that the Holy Name is just that, “holy,” to billions of Christians who regard Jesus as divine and their Savior. In a perfect world, something – let’s say charity, respect, cultural civility, good manners – would mitigate against the use of that name, in entertainment media, as a curse.

However, not only do we not live in a perfect world, but we live in a world that in some ways is increasingly vulgar and indifferent to, when not antagonistic toward, religious ideas. Figures such as Jesus are not only disrespected in many

We also live in a world in which the profane use of Jesus’ name in everyday speech has been commonplace for many years, which is why it found its way into movie scripts in the first place. In that environment, our best response is to continue being respectful of the Holy Name ourselves and avoid entertainment properties that routinely profane that name.

With respect to others, if they are close to us and especially if they are young, we can gently call their attention to what might have become a habit rather than deliberate blasphemy. And, being Christians and therefore confident in God’s grace, we can pray for those who abuse the Holy Name and for the day when the world be renewed and, as Paul wrote to the Philippians, “every tongue confess that Jesus Christ is Lord, to the glory of God the Father.”

Pope Francis’s Monthly Prayer Intentions

October

For the Synod We pray for the Church, that she may adopt listening and dialogue as a lifestyle at every level, and allow herself to be guided by the Holy Spirit towards the peripheries of the world.

Pope tells lawyers he’s writing a new document on the environment

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Thanking a group of European lawyers for their attention to environmental protection laws, Pope Francis said he was preparing another document on the subject. “I am writing a second part to Laudato Si’ to update it on current problems,” the Pope told the lawyers Aug. 21 during a meeting in the library of the Apostolic Palace.

He provided no further information.

“Laudato Si’, On Care for Our Common Home” was the title of Pope Francis’ 2015 encyclical letter on the need for an “integral ecology” that respects the dignity and value of the human person, helps the poor and safeguards the planet. The Pope made his remark in the context of thanking the lawyers for their “willingness to work for

the development of a normative framework aimed at protecting the environment.”

He told them, “It must never be forgotten that future generations are entitled to receive from our hands a beautiful and habitable world, and that this entails grave responsibilities toward the natural world that we have received from the benevolent hands of God.”

Love bears all things, endures all things

Although true, that title will evoke feelings of discomfort in perhaps half of those reading this. The discomfort comes from our personal deviation from the truth, or that of a loved one. Nonetheless, the truth still remains, and Jesus said that the truth will set us free.

Studying Theology of the Body over the past several years was, for me, an eye-opening and heart-rending experience. Since I was not so good at marriage, it was hard for me to hear about the sacredness and indissolubility of the marital covenant. Nevertheless, I had reached a time in life when I was ready to hear and live the truth no matter how much it hurt.

I write this not to judge or condemn anyone. Each of us has had his or her personal journey and experiences. I only wish to share a small portion of mine.

When you realize you had a wrong or ignorant view that significantly harmed your life and the lives of others, you become very passionate about speaking out about it, which I believe God is calling me to do.

Pope St. John Paul II spoke often about the pervasive fragmentation that exists within the human person today. As I hear of more and more couples calling it quits, some after decades of marriage, his words point to the broader reality that

divorce is a symptom of a much deeper problem. Divorce seems to evolve from a crisis of faith and identity that is more personal to individuals than to couples, and then remains unresolved through the marriage.

Looking back, I can say that I experienced more than one crisis in my life. In fact, most of my life I did not truly know myself because I did not have a personal relationship with God. I believed in him, I received the Sacraments and went to church, but I did not fully surrender my life to him. The only way that I could have conceived of divorce was because I had lost my sense of self. The woman I was raised to be and the woman I am today would not have chosen divorce.

St. Paul was a guiding light to me after my divorce. He said, “I do not understand my own actions. For I do not do what I want, but I do the very thing I hate” (Romans 7:16). It was helpful to know that even saints experienced identity crises. Yet, they always persisted in fervent prayer and sought to do God’s will. I learned that I could only find myself in God, and that a crisis is always beneficial if it draws me closer to Him.

One day, when I was at my lowest point, I poured out my heart to God and prayed, “Lord, I give you permission to show me my faults and the decisions I

made that did not come from you.” He took me back to our beginning, He reminded me of his sacred covenant and my promise to love my husband in good times and in bad, till death do we part, and all the blessings he bestowed on us: our children, our families, our friends and our homes. His grace enabled me to see as He sees. That is what his grace does for us. He spoke to my heart and said, “Don’t focus on the problems; remember the love.”

You may think that no one understands your difficulties and your pain. And you would be right, no one could completely understand, except for God. He understands our pain more than we do. His perspective is wider, wiser, unobstructed and timeless. His miracles take time – sometimes years – and we have grown accustomed to having immediate results. But, if we end our story before it is finished, we may interrupt his miracle in the works.

“Faced with problems and disappointments many people try to escape from their responsibility: escape in selfishness, escape in sexual pleasure, escape in drugs, escape in violence, escape in indifference and cynical attitudes. But today, I propose to you the option of love, which is the opposite of escape” (John Paul II, Homily on Boston Common,

Above: Pope Francis gives his blessing to a delegation of European lawyers in the library of the Apostolic Palace at the Vatican Aug. 21, 2023. Thanking the lawyers for their advocacy of environmental protection laws, the Pope announced he was writing another document on the environment.

CNS photo/Vatican Media

Oct. 1, 1979).

Our Father and Creator wants to rekindle the love that brought us to our spouses and lives in the depths of our hearts. We often busy ourselves and seek distractions because we do not want to let it in. God wants us to be still so we can hear him speak to us. While it may seem too painful to endure, with his help, we will persevere.

If you are not presently able to give or receive love from your spouse, give your love to God, He will always be there for you. Give him time to do his work in you and in your spouse. If forgiveness is a problem, take it to him. Christ is mercy itself. We need only look at a Crucifix to remember that love bears all things and endures all things. Jesus is the ultimate unifier of persons and his love never ends (1 Cor 13:7,8).

Anna M. Githens is a freelance writer with a career background in finance, teaching and journalism. She holds an Master of Arts in Theology, a Bachelor of Arts in Economics and a certification in Theology of the Body.

We are called to be God’s mercy and compassion to others

25th Sunday in Ordinary Time (A)

By Msgr. John N. Fell

“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” (Isaiah 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.

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 19:16-30). 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 person truly enjoyed the favor of God. 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” (Matthew 20:2), and then sends them to work on his property. He goes out again at noon, 3 pm, and finally at 5 pm, each time hiring additional workers for the day, promising to pay them “what is just” (Matthew 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 pm and gave them a full day’s pay; he similarly gave a full day’s wages to those hired at 3 pm and at noon. When the group hired at dawn came forward, they anticipated being 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 could not 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. The owner responds to their grumbling with the question, “Am I not free to do as I wish with my own money?” and then even highlights their potential hard-heartedness, “Are you envious because I am generous?’ (Matthew 20:15).

Michael, Gabriel and Raphael

September

29

These archangels, messengers sent by God, are the only ones named in the Bible. In the Book of Daniel, Michael is called “the great prince”; in the Letter of Jude, he argues with the devil over Moses’ body; and in the Book of Revelation, he leads the battle against Satan. He is patron of the sick, radiologists and mariners. Gabriel explains Daniel’s visions to him in the Book of Daniel, and in the Gospel of Luke announces to Zechariah and Mary the births of their respective sons. He is the patron of messengers and telecommunications and postal workers. Raphael guides Tobiah in the Book of Tobit; he is patron of the blind, physicians and travelers. The church created their joint feast after the Second Vatican Council.

Saints

SCRIPTURE SEARCH®

Gospel for September 24, 2023

Matthew 20:1-16a

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.

Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for the 25th Sunday in Ordinary Time, Cycle A: The generous landowner. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

HIRE LABORERS AGREEING USUAL DAILY WAGE NINE O’CLOCK IDLE AGAIN NOON FOUND ALL DAY NO ONE THE LAST FIRST RECEIVED EQUAL BURDEN HEAT FRIEND ENVIOUS GENEROUS

THEIR PAY

“This generous, merciful sense of justice is an encouragement and a challenge to Jesus’ followers of every generation.”

Catholic media use is on the upswing

By Greg Erlandson, OSV News

The bad news, of course, is that it isn’t everybody.

Catholic statistics of all sorts have been trending downward for years, highlighting a frustrating decline in sacramental practice and attendance. Only 21 percent of Catholics are attending Mass weekly or more. In fact, 53 percent of self-identified Catholics go to Mass only a few times a year or not at all.

Yet a new survey by the premier Catholic research institution known familiarly as CARA (the Center for Applied Research in the Apostolate) shows that Catholics are accessing Catholic materials at a significantly higher rate than when the survey was last taken in 2011.

Here is some of what the CARA survey is telling us:

• Watching religious or spiritual video content nearly doubled from 24 percent in 2011 to 45 percent in 2023. (Thank you, “Chosen.”)

• Listening to religious or spiritual audio content more than doubled from 13 percent to 29 percent.

(Thank you, Bishop Robert Barron and Father Mike Schmitz.)

• Reading a print or e-version of a religious or spiritual book also jumped, as did the purchasing of these materials. (Thank you, Catholic publishers, for hanging in there!)

When it comes to newspapers, the numbers are also heartening. The reading of print copies of magazines or newspapers has stayed flat at 18 percent, but reading a newspaper or magazine online jumped from 3 percent to 13 percent. A total of 21 percent get information about the Church from print or online newspapers. Only parish bulletins or word of mouth rank higher.

For all the chancery naysayers who repeat the cliché that print is dead and urge the killing of the newspaper or magazine to save money, the survey may be a disappointment. But for Church leaders committed to keeping Catholics both inspired and informed, it is validation that a both/and approach to communications remains the recipe: Print plus online plus social media.

The survey also underscores a fact often missing when talking about the cost of a diocesan publication. The most faith-

ful and dedicated Catholics read and rely on them.

CARA found that 62 percent of weekly Mass attenders believe the print version of their diocesan newspaper or magazine is an essential part of how the diocese communicates. Sixty percent of monthly Mass attenders responded similarly. And “54 percent of weekly attenders agree that they would be upset by any suggestion that their diocese stop producing a print version of its publication. Fifty-three percent of monthly attenders responded as such,” the report said.

Only 55 percent of Catholics regularly contribute to the parish offertory collection. While CARA did not specifically ask this question, my guess is that the largest percentage of those donors would be those weekly attendees and media readers.

The survey recognizes that there are a

wide range of Catholic communication efforts, from websites, social media and blogs, to television, radio, video, print and online. The number of Catholics actively practicing their faith may be in slow decline, but those who are committed are relying now more than ever on Catholic media.

The takeaways are this: Church leaders should want to be in the game, not standing on the sidelines while others control the messaging. And they should also want to be committed to providing resources of high quality because it maintains their connection with their most committed parishioners. This isn’t

their only audience, and newspapers and magazines are not their only tools, but they remain essential in a world where secular mass communications are becoming more sophisticated and, too often, more manipulative.

When weighing the cost of their media efforts, dioceses should make sure the mission value of these investments makes it into their spreadsheets as well.

Greg Erlandson is an award-winning Catholic publisher, editor and journalist whose column appears monthly at OSV News. Follow him on Twitter @ GregErlandson.

The number of Catholics actively practicing their faith may be in slow decline, but those who are committed are relying now more than ever on Catholic media.

The good news today is that Catholics are still reading, listening and watching Catholic materials. The better news is that the numbers who are reading, listening and watching have been going up.

Varied sources of Catholic media are depicted in a collage featuring (clockwise from left) print publications, (Tyler Orsburn, CNS), Sr. Josephine Garrett, (courtesy Sr. Garrett), a scene from “The Chosen” television series (courtesy Vidangel Studios), Bishop Robert Barron (Bob Roller) and Father Mike Schmitz (courtesy Ascension). OSV News photo/Files

Childcare centers are ready to kick off new school year

By Tiffany Workman

The summer has come to an end, which can be a sad time for many, but it’s a happy time for Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, because that means a new school year is about to begin at the childcare centers.

Catholic Charities currently serves approximately 650 school age children across four counties. There are two preschool programs in Middlesex County and enrollment is free for New Brunswick residents.

Kawanna Anderson is the Center Director for YES Early Learning Center in New Brunswick and has been with Catholic Charities for eight years. She emphasizes that “YES ELC is a place of love, laughter and learning filled with caregivers that know that investing in our little ones makes a big difference.” Anderson lives by her favorite quote, “Childhood is not a race to see how quickly a child can read, write and count. Childhood is a small window of time

to learn and develop at the pace which is right for each individual child.” She adds, “As educators and caregivers we must enjoy the process of learning and not focus on individual results.” Anderson says the YES Early Learning Center is looking forward to “a healthy, happy and productive school year.”

Cheryl Curry is the Director of the YES Early Learning Center at St. Ladislaus Preschool and has been with Catholic Charities for five years. Curry takes pride in the warm, secure and nurturing learning environment that St. Ladislaus offers for preschool- age children that live in the city of New Brunswick. “Through make believe and dramatic play our children learn more than just basic academic skills,” Curry says. She adds, “They learn cooperation, selfregulation and working memory skills as well. Not all learning occurs within the classroom; we take trips to the theatre, the museums, the library and lots of other places.” Curry emphasizes that “Our St. Ladislaus preschool is a place where fun

and learning come together.”

The preschool programs are always accepting donations from the public to help enrich the lives of the children who attend. The YES Early Learning center kindly suggests donations of new or gently used clothing and shoes for children and food gift cards, but most importantly they need continued prayers for their students, their families and their staff. The childcare center at St. Ladislaus would appreciate people donating their time in the form of guest readers, especially during Read Across America which is March 2th– 6th, 2024.

The Catholic Charities childcare centers staff and students participate in many different activities and themed days throughout the year, including “Week of the Young Child,” “Read Across America,” “Social Emotional Learning Day” and “Read Aloud Day,” are just a few examples of how the childcare centers enrich student’s lives. They celebrate many holidays, and have many special guests visit including dentists, police officers,

The Cat in the Hat and even Santa Claus. The childcare centers end the year with moving up ceremonies where every class puts on a performance for their families. Catholic Charities provides free preschool for New Brunswick residents and even though the school year has begun, children can still be enrolled. New Brunswick residents interested in preschool for their child should contact the schools directly.

To contact the YES Early Learning Center, 115 Robeson Blvd, New Brunswick, call 732-249-3881. To contact the St. Ladislaus Childcare Center, 197 Somerset St. New Brunswick, call 732214-1475.

For further questions regarding enrollment, reach out to billing staff for a specific county. For Warren and Morris Counties, please call 908-454-2074. For Somerset and Middlesex Counties, please call 732-934-2800.

For more information on child care services offered at Catholic Charities visit http://www.ccdom.org/child-care. Tiffany Workman is Communications Specialist in the Office of Communications and Public Relations.

Top right: The Cat in the Hat stopped by St. Ladislaus Childcare Center, New Brunswick, for Read Across America. Above: Students at St. Ladislaus enjoyed Read Across America with Police Officers from New Brunswick Police Catholic Charities Diocese of Metuchen photos

I.H.S. alum takes school’s influence with him on NFL journey

with the team,” Bower said. “It was something that I never will take for granted.”

Bower, who moved to Texas two years ago to be closer to his father, added that he wants to give back to Immaculata more frequently while stationed in North Jersey again. He has a powerful message to convey to kids who want to be him one

“Just keep working,” Bower said. “I’m definitely not the strongest, fastest or any of that, but there’s opportunities that are always out there and you’ve got to take advantage of every one. No matter how done you get, if a situation seems like it’s not going your way, I promise if you work harder than the next guy, things will come. It’s only proven itself over and over again for not just me, but

A 6-foot-5, 250-pound defensive end, Bower has played in 26 NFL regular-season games with the Vikings, the New England Patriots and the Las Vegas Raiders.

He signed with the Giants right before training camp on July 25 and was grateful for the homecoming. He grew up as a Jacksonville Jaguars fan because his father liked them when they became a franchise in 1995 — the year Bower was born — but reconnecting with family and friends in East Rutherford was special for him.

By Gregory Johnson Correspondent

When Tashawn Bower reflects on what has been a six-year NFL career, the lessons from his days at Immaculata High School are at the forefront of his mind.

Bower was once a top New Jersey recruit who played big-time college football at LSU, but the NFL has tested his perseverance. He signed with the Minnesota Vikings in 2017 as an undrafted free agent and has competed for roster spots in numerous training camps, most recently near his hometown Livingston with the New York Giants.

“First and foremost, I’d say my faith in God, keeping that strong, making sure that whenever things go good, bad, or the other, just having faith and thanking the man above for everything,” were part of the Somerville’s school influence, said Bower, recalling the school’s award winning Coach [Pierce} Frauenheim also stressed that, while pride in your efforts is important, “sometimes you’ve got to put your pride aside for things and kind of take one on the chin. Toughness and dependability on your brothers, those things will always carry you through not only football, but, I think, life.”

A team captain who led Immaculata to its state championship game in 2012, Bower thanks numerous coaches for imparting wisdom during his time with the Spartans.

“I always try and keep in contact with them just because they gave me such a great opportunity and always trusted me

Bower had a strong showing in three preseason games, finishing with seven tackles, one tackle-for-loss, one quarterback hit and one pass defended. But the Giants ended up making him one of their 38 roster cuts before the regular season.

Bower indicated that he wanted to continue playing in the NFL regardless of the Giants’ decision. Two of his cousins played in college at Georgia Southern and Youngstown State, but he is the first in his family to be in the pros.

“I just love football so much and love competing and love showing that no matter what the circumstances have been that I can go out and play,” Bower said.

“Six years, it’s not like the shortest career ever and not the longest either, but it’s a grind and just being able to compete with other guys and just doing something that you love every single day, playing for your last name, playing for your family legacy and all the people who believed in you. It’s much bigger than you. It’s a lot that goes into it.”

Bower wants to one day start his own family. When he eventually retires, he intends to go back to LSU and finish his business degree and possibly go into real estate. But he feels he still has more to give to football.

Bower prides himself on being an excellent run stopper, first and foremost, who also brings pass-rushing skills and is uniquely experienced in the NFL. He has learned to quickly digest various defenses, how to evaluate film and his opponents, and can be a secondary coach on the field for young players as well.

“I’ve had the chance to do it all,

so I’m ready for whatever challenge,” Bower said.

Whatever lies next, his alma mater will continue to be proud.

“Even during his time at Immaculata, Tashawn showed great promise and persistence, both on and off the field,”

Immaculata principal Ed Webber said. “We are proud of Tashawn’s unwavering commitment, passion and dedication. He is a great reminder to us all, but more importantly to our students, that through perseverance and hard work, we can achieve greatness.”

NOVEMBER 4, 2023

You’re Amazing Experience

This Diocese-wide event is an active and dynamic encounter for 7th-12th graders and families to experience a breakthrough that will (re)ignite their relationship with Christ and the Catholic Church

Tashawn Bowers, number 94, stands on the practice field next to linebacker Habakkuk Baldonado in the Quest Diagnostics Training Center, adjacent to MetLife Stadium, East Rutherford. Gregory Johnson photos

Archbishop Pierre celebrates National Boy Scout Jamboree Mass

By Nora Burke Klippstein Special Contributor

What is Mass like with 3000 teenagers? Awesome! What happens when the homily connects with them? Electricity!

On July 23, Archbishop Christophe Pierre, Apostolic Nuncio to the United States served as principal celebrant at the National Boy Scout Jamboree Mass at the Summit Bechtel Reserve in Beckley West Virginia.

Archbishop Pierre, just recently named by Pope Francis to be elevated to cardinal at the September Consistory, charmed the scout audience with reminiscences of his French scouting experiences intertwined in his homily. A French scout for five years before entering seminary, Archbishop Pierre’s primary mes-

sage to the young people was to focus on developing the virtues of kindness and patience.

“As the Pope’s representative to the United States I am happy to express his spiritual closeness to you and his prayers,” said Archbishop Pierre. “Scout ing is an endeavor that always fits well into our life as Christians. To be sure, Christianity is about much more than fol lowing a moral code. And yet, when we truly want to follow Jesus as his disciples that desire leads us to practice a good moral life. Jesus inspires us to grow in the virtues, and living a life of virtue is the heart of scouting.”

Among the 15,000 Jamboree attendees were Diocese of Metuchen scouts and leaders from Monmouth Council, Patriots Path Council and Washington

Eucharist to attendees. “I felt proud that I was able to serve as an usher at Mass and serve my church. It was ‘crazy’ to see how many scouts and scouters were gathered there together to celebrate Mass It was a very cool experience to be able to worship with so many of my fellow Catholic youth and friends of other denominations who attended Mass with me.”

Cardinal Designee Pierre also made lecting patches for achievements which was later echoed by National Chaplain ing remarks. Father Gentleman urged scouts to learn more about the Eucharist thru working on the newly announced nine patch Eucharistic Revival set. This scout religious activity program is open to all scouts and non-scouts, male or female, youth or adult. Further information is available at: https://nccs-bsa.org/ religious-activities/eucharistic-revivalspecial-program/.

Nora Burke Klippstein is a member of Immaculate Conception Parish, Clinton, and serves with the diocesan Catholic Scouting Apostolate.

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LOYOLA JESUIT CENTER

161 James Street • Morristown, NJ 07960 973-539-0740 • Fax: 973-898-9839

www.loyola.org • retreathouse@loyola.org

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

MOUNT ST. MARY HOUSE OF PRAYER

1651 U.S. Highway 22, Watchung, NJ 07069 908-753-2091 • www.msmhope.org

e-mail: msmhope@msmhope.org

Retreats, Spiritual Direction, Programs

SAN ALFONSO RETREAT HOUSE

755 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch NJ 07740 732-222-2731 • info@sanalfonsoretreats.org www.sanalfonsoretreats.org

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

THE SHRINE OF ST. JOSEPH

1050 Long Hill Road, Stirling, NJ 07980 908-647-0208 • www.stshrine.org

Day & Overnight Retreats Gift & Book Shop - open daily

ST. FRANCIS CENTER FOR RENEWAL, INC.

395 Bridle Path Road, Bethlehem PA 18017 610.867.8890 • sfcr-info@stfrancisctr.org • stfrancisctr.org 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.

ST. FRANCIS RETREAT HOUSE

3918 Chipman Road, Easton, PA 18045

Phone: 610-258-3053, ext. 10 • Fax: 610-258-2412

Info@stfrancisretreathouse.org • stfrancisretreathouse.org

Franciscan retreat and confrence center. Retreats for men, women, youth, religious, preached, private, directed

ST. JOSEPH BY THE SEA

400 Route 35 North, S. Mantoloking, NJ 08738 732-892-8494 • sjbsea@comcast.net • sjbsea.org

VILLA PAULINE RETREAT AND SPIRITUAL CENTER

352 Bernardsville Road, Mendham, NJ 07945 973-738-4266 • smpdemek@scceast.org • www.scceast.org

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

This month’s featured retreat house:

San Alfonso

Retreat House

Where God and sea come together ...

email Ads@CatholicSpirit.com

Programs for 2023

Retreats for Women: October 6-8, 13-15, November 10-12

Retreats for Priests and Deacons: October 2-5

Knights of Columbus weekend: October 20-22

Days of Prayer: (9:30am - 3:00pm)

October 16, November 9, December 12

Matt Talbot Retreats for Women: October 27-29

Matt Talbot Retreats for Men: November 3-5

Advent Silent, Directed weekend: December 1-3

For more information and to register: call 732-222-2731, x140 info@sanalfonsoretreats.org www.sanalfonsoretreats.org 755 Ocean Avenue, Long Branch, NJ 07740

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.

Crossword Puzzle

ACROSS

1 Beatific ___

4 Bishops head these

9 Nationality of most popes

11 Brother of Isaac

12 Members of this tribe of Israel carried the Ark.

13 Gift of the Holy Spirit

15 According to I Thessalonians, we will meet the Lord in this (with “the”)

17 Patron saint of Scotland

18 Worms meeting that denounced Luther

21 “…the greatest of these is ___” (I Cor 13:13)

22 Kingdom of David

25 Bk. of the Pentateuch

27 Afterlife experience of purification

28 “Come to me all who labor…

I will give you ___” (Mt 11:28)

31 Pilate’s given name

32 Time for some Easter services

33 The Good ___

34 Catholic female lead of “Everybody Loves Raymond”

DOWN

1 Nun topper

2 “The man and his wife were both naked, yet they felt no ___” (Gen 2:25)

3 Type of sin

5 Patron saint of farmers

6 Catholic author of How the Irish Saved Civilization

7 Clothes of Baby Jesus

8 “___ Regina”

10 “…___ and you clothed me” (Mt 25:36)

14 Woman in the Book of Judges who killed Sisera

16 Gift of the Holy Spirit

19 Exodus meeting place

20 Michelangelo’s “David” is here

23 Person who accompanies another preparing for Confirmation

24 The demons “Legion” begged Jesus not to command them here

26 Unit in one of 4A

27 By the end of the 20th century there had been 265 of these 29 Holy one

30 Possible title for a pastor

Answers can be found on page 43

Jenna Marie Cooper, who holds a licentiate in canon law, is a consecrated virgin and a canonist whose column appears weekly at OSV News. Send your questions to CatholicQA@osv.com.

Questions about a prayer’s validity and whether priests can make mistakes

QWe’ve been wondering about the wording in the prayer used for those who attend Sunday Mass virtually. The phrases: “Come AT LEAST spiritually into my heart” and “I love You AS IF You were already there” don’t reflect good theology. Don’t we believe that the Bible and our faith assure us of God’s constant presence and unconditional Love? Please address this question since it is used by most parishes every weekend. (Location withheld)

AThe prayer you mention sounds like what would be traditionally called an act of “spiritual communion.” That is, it’s a prayer that is meant to be said by those who would like to be receiving Jesus in the Blessed Sacrament, but who are unable to do this for whatever reason. It makes sense that this prayer would be said specifically for the benefit of those who are watching the Mass via livestream, since those who are not present at Mass are obviously not able, in that moment, to receive communion in the same physical way that most of the assembled congregation would be.

A prayer of spiritual communion is not meant as a global theological statement on God’s omnipresence in general. God is indeed present always and everywhere, and he loves us unconditionally no matter where we are. It’s not as though God is somehow absent from us

unless (or until) we say a certain prayer.

Yet at the same time, as Catholics we believe in the doctrine of the “real presence,” meaning that the prayers of consecration at Mass literally turn the offered bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus. Because the bread and wine become Jesus’s body and blood, we believe that during the Eucharist He becomes present to us in a uniquely intense and physical way; and that on an individual level, his presence to us is especially intimate when we per sonally receive him in holy communion.

Acts of spiritual communion are meant as a way for those who cannot receive communion at a particular point to try to “bridge the gap” between their current circumstances and their desire to receive Jesus sacramentally. You could look at a spiritual communion as a way of making ourselves especially open to God’s constant presence.

QCan priests be wrong?

(Madison, WI)

ATaking your question at simple face value, yes, of course priests can be wrong! Priests are mere human beings, not all-knowing demigods or supercomputers running on perfect algorithms. And no priest is going to be an expert in all areas of knowledge. Like the rest of us, priests can and will be wrong about at least some things some of the time.

Priests do receive quite an extensive training in graduate-level theology, so – in general – when a priest explains Church teaching, he is speaking as qualified professionals in his field. Many priests have roles of authority (like, for example, pastor of a parish) which empower them to make practical decisions. So even if we, e.g., believe that our priest is “wrong” in

his prudential decision-making in a given instance, it may nevertheless be a choice the priest is legitimately able to make.

We Catholics also have a concept of “papal infallibility,” which means that the Pope is protected from error in certain very specific circumstances, namely when he “proclaims by a definitive act some doctrine of faith or morals” (See Lumen Gentium, 25). That is, the Holy Father is infallible when he specifically and deliberately raises some aspect of established Catholic teaching on faith or morals to the level of infallibility. But this is a rare occurrence; the last time it happened was in 1950 with the proclamation of the dogma of Mary’s Assumption. There is no belief that the Pope would be infallible in areas unrelated to faith or morals.

remembered, mourned

People gather for the National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children Sept. 12, 2020, at Allouez Catholic Cemetery in Allouez, Wis. During the hourlong outdoor event, participants listened to speakers, recited the Rosary and prayed the Divine Mercy Chaplet.

PHILADELPHIA (OSV News) – A coast-to-coast observance commemorating the souls of children lost to abortion, the National Day of Remembrance for Aborted Children, took place Sept. 9, with services and gatherings at some 225 locations across the country.

About 56 of those locations are gravesites for the remains of aborted children, while the majority are memorials. Now in its 15th year, the event – which is annually held on the second Saturday of September – is jointly sponsored by two Midwestern-based organizations, Citizens for a Pro-life Society in Michigan and the Pro-Life Action League in Illinois.

Tracing its origins to the 1988 burial of some 1,200 aborted babies at Holy Cross Cemetery in Milwaukee, the occasion – which was initiated in 2013 – has become “an important opportunity for

healing from abortion,” Eric Scheidler, executive director of the Pro-Life Action League, told OSV News. Participants have “really appreciated” the chance to “put the focus on the children’s lives and express sorrow at their passing,” he said. For women who have had abortions, the chance to express their “regret and mourning” is cathartic, Scheidler said. He noted the events take place in “locations already set up for difficult emotional experiences: churches and cemeteries,” where “we expect people to shed tears.” “Whether you were pushed into that choice, or you made it yourself, the reality is that abortion is an incredible tragedy,” said Scheidler, noting that a willingness to face such pain offers a chance to “reconcile with our pasts ... and to ask for God’s healing, to come and infuse our memories and experiences, and transform us.”

Across the nation, aborted children

A monstrance is pictured during Eucharistic adoration at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C. The Prayer of Spiritual Communion written by St. Alphonsus Liguori has been superimposed on the photo. OSV News photo/Bob Roller

CNS photo/Sam Lucero, The Compass

Book of the Month

We are all called to reject sin, to grow in virtue, and, above all else, to love God with all that we are. But some souls suffer from anxiety and feelings of guilt because they see sin where there is none and struggle to embrace God’s love and mercy - a psychological and spiritual condition known as scrupulosity.

In Scrupulosity: Heal Your Mind, Unbind Your Soul, and Let God Work, clinical psychologist Dr. Kevin Vost provides a comprehensive overview of the ancient and current psychological and theological understanding of scrupulosity and how those who suffer from it can find peace and healing. He guides the reader through the empowering effects of the sacraments, virtues, gifts of the Holy Spirit, and prayer, as well as scientific insights into the physical and emotional reality of scrupulosity. Along the way, he offers inspiration from the lives of saints.

This book answers many common questions, such as:

• What are the causes of scrupulosity?

• How can I know if I have it?

• How does it manifest in thoughts, emotions, and behaviors?

• Does one outgrow scrupulosity over time?

Christ does not want us to live this life with troubled hearts mired in fear. Ultimately, this book invites both the scrupulous and those who love them to attain greater spiritual and psychological peace.

What is joy? Ask ten different people and you’ll get ten different answers. Yet if you asked:

• a man who grew up fatherless and destitute in the slums of Atlanta

• a young widow who decided to bring a neglected garden back to life in spite of agonizing physical pain and a deeply wounded spirit

• or author Dan Lord himself, ex-frontman for a popular indie rock band each would point to the one source of their joy: Jesus.

They made the choice for joy, against all odds, and so can you, though the obstacles might seem insurmountable. Worry and anxiety, pain and suffering, the daily grind – all these and more can block your path. When faced with such challenges, is it possible to get past the barriers, let go, and experience God’s joy?

When you look around, you might wonder – although joy is a fruit of the Spirit, it doesn’t seem to be hanging visibly from many Christian boughs. Choosing Joy aims to change that – and change your life in the process – as it helps you discover the key to this most attractive but seemingly elusive gift.

Choosing Joy will help you overcome the obstacles and focus your heart, mind and strength on God so that you can receive the happiness and peace that the world cannot give.

FURTHER READING

Anxiety. It’s practically an epidemic. Twenty percent of Americans suffer from anxiety disorders, and millions more wrestle with worry and stress on a daily basis. For us as Christians, all that worry gets mixed up with a lot of guilt. After all, Scripture tells us, “Have no anxiety at all” (Phil 4:6). How can we stop worrying and start living an anxiety-free life? As you’ll learn in Unworried: A Life Without Anxiety, the answer isn’t “just pray more” or “just read more Scripture” or, worst of all, “just stop worrying.” If we learn to respect how God made us, we can build new habits of thinking, communicating, and acting that will help set us free from worry.

Dr. Gregory Popcak integrates insights from our Catholic Faith with cutting-edge psychological research to help the anxious reader form a comprehensive plan for conquering anxiety and living a life of true peace.

The Hill

By John Mulderig OSV News

NEW YORK (OSV News) – Underdog stories have a broad appeal, especially when they occur in real life. So the tale of Texan Rickey Hill’s against-the-odds struggle to become a major league baseball player should, potentially, make for an engaging film. As the drama “The Hill” (Briarcliff) demonstrates, however, theory is one thing, execution another.

Viewers will undoubtedly sympathize with the youthful protagonist of director Jeff Celentano’s earnest profile, played by Jesse Berry as a boy in the 1960s and by Colin Ford as an early70s high schooler. They’ll be rooting for Rickey as he faces down the formidable obstacles he will have to overcome to achieve his dream.

These include both daunting physical disabilities and the determined opposition of his evangelical minister father, James (Dennis Quaid), who wants Rickey to take to the pulpit, not the diamond. For reasons not fully explored, James also seems to regard America’s pastime as some sort of heathenish enterprise, perhaps because it’s sometimes played on Sundays.

Sustained by faith, and by the unwavering support of his childhood sweetheart, Grace (Siena Bjornerud), Rickey battles on toward his goal. As he does so, screenwriters Angelo Pizzo and Scott Marshall Smith keep objectionable elements to a minimum, making Rickey’s biography a suitable offering for teens as well as grown-ups.

Yet, as admirable as the filmmakers’ evident intentions are, their movie makes for an awkward piece of entertainment. There’s a starchy tone to the proceedings that diminishes the emotional impact of Rickey’s travails. And the main charac-

ters’ penchant for sententiously quoting scripture further dilutes the production’s effectiveness.

While aesthetic craft may be lacking in these respects, “The Hill” does, nonetheless, constitute uplifting fare. Naive but generally wholesome, it’s a pleasant diversion with an inspiring – and implicitly pro-life – takeaway.

The film contains a single use of profanity and a couple of instances each of milder swearing and crass language. The OSV News classification is A-II –adults and adolescents. The Motion Pic ture Association rating is PG – parental guidance suggested. Some material may not be suitable for children.

John Mulderig is media reviewer for OSV News. Follow him on Twitter @ JohnMulderig1.

Series launches nationwide to foster love for holy Eucharist

In “Mother Teresa & Me,” a film directed by Kamal Musale, we discover the saint through the eyes of Kavita, a young

English woman who’s been abandoned by her boyfriend after he finds out that she is pregnant. Kavita then journeys to Calcutta to escape her pain and soon discovers that even holy people like Mother Teresa have to face life’s challenges and, in fact, struggle through years of spiritual crisis known as the “dark night of the soul.” Inspired by Mother Teresa’s example of perseverance and compassionate love, Kavita rediscovers hope and purpose. This rare, powerful and inspirational film shows how we can overcome our own troubles by helping lift the burdens of others.

Visit https://www.fathomevents.com/ events/Mother-Teresa-and-Me for participating theaters and ticket information.

WASHINGTON (OSV News) – The National Eucharistic Congress, in partnership with the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops and the Augustine Institute, has released a seven-part video series to help parishes nationwide launch small group communities to grow in faith and love for the holy Eucharist.

The guided series is hosted by Montse Alvarado, president and chief operating officer of EWTN News, and Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens of Crookston, Minnesota, chair of the USCCB’s Committee on Evangelization and Catechesis. The initial small group series released Sept. 14 titled, “Jesus and the Eucharist,” is the first of seven weekly sessions available on the revival’s online “LEARN” platform.

Each session opens with an exhortation from a different bishop; includes teaching from prominent theologians and influential figures in the Church today; and highlights personal testimonies from everyday Catholics who have experienced the transformative power of Eucharistic love in their own lives.

The four pillars that uphold the movement of the National Eucharistic Revival are reinvigorating worship, personal encounter, robust faith formation, and missionary sending. The “Jesus and the Eucharist” series was created as a tangible underpinning to the third pillar of formation.

New lessons are now available for download every Thursday through Oct. 26 on the Eucharistic Revival website, eucharisticcongress.org. Individuals also may access the free online series if unable to participate in a parish program.

The inspirational film “Mother Teresa and me,” is coming to theaters nationwide for one night only Thursday, October 5

Colin Ford stars as Rickey Hill and Dennis Quaid as Pastor James Hill in “The Hill.” —OSV News photo/Briarcliff Entertainment

Auxiliary Bishop Andrew H. Cozzens of St. Paul and Minneapolis carries the Eucharist in a monstrance during a procession June 19, 2021. —OSV News photo/ CNS file, Dave Hrbacek, The Catholic Spirit

DIOCESAN EVENTS

Life Chain. Please consider joining the prayerful, peaceful, public witness for the sanctity of all human life. The Life Chain will be held 2 – 3:30 p.m. rain or shine. For locations contact: amarshall@ diometuchen.org

Feminine Genius Brunch – This morning focuses on the mystery of God and his plan for each person, and includes a presentation and book signing by Shannon Whitmore, author of the new book, “See Yourself as God Does: Understanding Holy Body Image through Catholic Scripture” (Ascension). The morning will include prayer and reflection, brunch and a review of service ideas for women to become more involved in ministry. Women of all ages are invited to the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, 146 Metlars Lane, Piscataway from 9:30 a.m. – 12:30 p.m. For more information and/or to register please visit www.diometuchen.org/familylife or call 732-562-1543.

Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend - A special weekend experience providing the time and tools to revitalize romance, deepen communication, and nourish the spirituality in your marriage. Apply ASAP as space is limited. For more information visit: www.wwme.org For an application call: 1-732-904-9636 (Tom & Ruth DeFalco)

Youth Minister Meet Up & Formation Day, Sponsored by the diocesan Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, this day is intended to train, encourage, connect, and renew participants in their roles in ministry to youth, and will include fellowship, training by vice-president of Ablaze Ministries, Chris Bartlett, as well as the celebration of Mass. Lunch is included. All who minister to youth, have the desire to minister to youth or want to learn more about youth ministry are invited. Cost is $15. The day runs from 9 a.m. - 1:45 p.m. in the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, 146 Metlars Lane, Piscataway. For more information or to register visit diometuchen.org/ymtraining

DIOCESAN PROGRAMS

Eucharistic Adorers Wanted

Now that the pandemic is over, Bishop Checchio would like to offer Eucharistic adoration at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Monday through Friday, from 9:00-11:45 a.m. As St. Pope John Paul II noted. “The Church and the world have a great need of Eucharistic adoration.” Anyone who is interested in signing up should contact Angela Marshall at amarshall@ diometuchen.org

Catechism in a Year for Women This virtual Women’s Group will meet each week on Sundays at 2:30 p.m. on Zoom for discussion of Fr. Mike Schmitz’s “Catechism in a Year” podcast which began on January 8. For details, contact Cristina at cdaverso@diometuchen.org

“The Chosen” Study Series

All young adult engaged and married couples are invited to join in a virtual study series based on the hit series, “The Chosen.” A different episode will be discussed each meeting and virtual watch parties will be planned sporadically. Meetings take place every

other Monday evening at 7 p.m. on Zoom. For details or to join, please contact Cristina D’Averso-Collins at cdaverso@diometuchen.org.

Blue Rosary Guild

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

Abortion Healing for Men This Base camp is an virtual, open-forum, weekly discussion group for men who have been impacted by abortion. It meets Tuesdays at 12 noon EST. The group is led by Greg Mayo, Men’s Abortion Healing Strategist for Support After Abortion. No registration is needed. For more information contact: jruggiero@diometuchen.org or amarshall@diometuchen.org

SELLING YOUR HOME?

Willing to buy your home or townhouse in as-is condition. Quick 30 day cash closing. I’m a Licensed realtor in the State of NJ. Eugene “George” Pantozzi 908-392-2677 (call or text) georgepantozzi@hotmail.com

ADVERTISING SALES REPRESENTATIVE

The Catholic Spirit, the official newspaper of the Diocese of Metuchen, seeks an Advertising Sales Representative to assist with the sale of advertising space. The ideal candidate will be responsible for initiating, developing, and closing sales of print media advertising in The Catholic Spirit by creating and building effective client relationships with area businesses and organizations. Interested candidates should forward their resume to hr@diometuchen.org.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY - GRAPHIC DESIGNER

The Catholic Spirit, the official newspaper of the Diocese of Metuchen, seeks a Graphic Designer to assist with the layout and design of its publication. The ideal candidate will have Adobe InDesign and Photoshop experience in a PC environment, be familiar with all aspects of electronic publishing, be well-organized and reliable, and have a proven track record of meeting deadlines. Interested candidates should forward their resume to hr@diometuchen.org.

EMPLOYMENT OPPORTUNITY - FREELANCE PHOTOGRAPHER

The Diocese of Metuchen is seeking a freelance photographer to cover important events throughout the diocese, including the Bishop’s pastoral visits. The ideal candidate will assist the Office of Communications and Public Relations, as well as The Catholic Spirit, the official newspaper of the diocese, in telling the story of the diocese and its partners. Interested candidates should contact Jerry Wutkowski at communications@diometuchen.org.

AROUND THE DIOCESE

Fatima Candlelight Procession

Our Lady of Fatima Church, located at 501 New Market Road in Piscataway will honor their patroness on Sunday, Oct. 8, rain or shine. The faithful will gather at 7 p.m. at the church. The Procession will begin at 7:30 p.m. The Rosary will be said in the church for those unable to walk the procession route. A program in the church will follow the procession including a homily, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament, Benediction and the traditional Fatima farewell. Reception to follow. This year’s guest presider will be the Most Rev. Gerardo J. Colacicco, New York Auxiliary Bishop, National Eucharistic Revival board member. Contact Roberta Maurer at 732-245-9124 for more information.

Grief Support Group

A grief support group is being offered by Our Lady of Mount Virgin Bereavement Ministry beginning Thursday, Oct. 12, and running for six consecutive Thursdays from 1:30-3 p.m. at Petra House, 610 Harris Avenue, Middlesex. The support group is free and open to all. Registration forms are available online at olmv.net or the parish office, 600 Harris Ave.

Yard Sale

Oct. 14, 8 a.m. - 1 p.m. the Saint Vincent de Paul Society of Corpus Christi Parish will hold a Yard Sale in the lower Church parking lot, 100 James St., South River. Household, Christmas and Halloween decorations and much more will be sold. Proceeds of the sale will help the needy of South River. Private vendors will also participate. For more information contact visit: svdpcorpuschristi38@gmail.com

Please join the Public Square Rosary Crusade to pray for our nation,12 p.m., Saturday, Oct. 14. The local Public Square Rosary Rally will take place at Guardian Angels Church, (Our Lady of Lourdes Grotto/ outside) 37 Plainfield Ave, Edison, NJ 08817. Please contact Geralyn Evanowski at 908-420-5457 for more information.

Classic Rock Show

Oct. 21 - 6 p.m. Our Lady of Lourdes Knights of Columbus, Council 6930, Whitehouse Station, will present: ROCK’N THE FALL Classic Rock from the 60’s to the 90’s, at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall, 390 County Road 523, Whitehouse Station. The show will feature the Original Blend 94 Proof Band. Doors open at 6 p.m., dinner is 6:30 p.m. and show time 7:30 p.m. The event will enable the Knights to support many local organizations like Starfish Food Pantry, Hunterdon ARC, Clinton ARC, and Lyons VA Hospital . Tickets are $50 per person and includes show, dinner, dessert, wine and beer. For tickets email: ollkoc6930@gmail.com

Crossword Puzzle Answers: