Lord our God, in your wisdom and love you surround us with the mysteries of the universe. Send your Spirit upon these students and fill them with your wisdom and blessings.
Grant that they may devote themselves to their studies and draw ever closer to you, the source of all knowledge.
We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.
FROM THE USCCB
The popular back-to-school television commercial from a few decades ago featured an ecstatic dad sailing through the aisles of a school supply store atop his shopping cart to the tune of “It’s the most wonderful time of year.”
Hyperbole aside, the return to school is usually a much anticipated and welcome experience for families of all faiths, ethnicities and communities across the nation.
But for tens of thousands of Catholic families in the Diocese of Trenton, the return to school is about more than buying school supplies, fulfilling book lists and planning the best outfit for the first day back. Whether our students are going back to Catholic schools or parish religious education classes, they are returning to an experience where Jesus is the foundation, and where they are encouraged to follow him.
This is also a time of awesome responsibility for thousands of educators and catechists whose commitment to inspire Christian discipleship in their students can have a positive impact on many young lives.
And so, as this new school year unfolds, we pray for the students, as well as their teachers and all those who share in this most sacred trust of forming young Catholics in class and beyond.
Freepik images
Investing in the Future
Diocese’s Catholic schools prioritize enhancements for
BY EMMALEE ITALIA Contributing Editor
As school bells rang once again in the halls of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Trenton, signaling the return to learning in community, teachers, students and administrators were greeted with myriad positive changes that will impact the quality of their daily academic experience.
From exterior and interior enhancements to programming upgrades and meaningful celebrations of Catholic and cultural significance, the atmosphere signals to the tens of thousands of students served by the 35 Catholic schools in the Diocese that schools prioritize educating the whole student. At the heart of each parish community is the support
of Catholic school families, which foster the faith lived at home in their “domestic churches,” and bring that faith with them to school.
ACADEMIC ADVANCES
Keeping Catholic schools apace with and even ahead of their competitors has been a constant goal in the Diocese, and this year is no exception.
Much of the program updates have been centered around science, technology, engineering and math – STEM.
St. Gregory the Great School, Hamilton Square, will introduce a new math resource program this school year following one that had been in place for more than 25 years. Meanwhile, St. Joan of Arc School in Marlton will build on its brain-compatible learning applications through STREAM (STEM with
new academic year
Religion and Arts), including monthly school-wide activities on a variety of topics.
Another supplemental program, Freckle by Renaissance, is being implemented at Holy Cross Academy, Rumson. The product aligns closely with Renaissance’s STAR test to help with student achievement.
At the heart of each parish community is the support of Catholic school families ...
St. Rose of Lima will launch a new robotics program this year, “giving our students hands-on opportunities to explore STEM in innovative ways,” said principal Kathy Leonetti.
A student-facing 3D printing curriculum will be introduced in St. Paul School, Princeton, offering “a dynamic opportunity to expand our academic offerings, attract new students and prepare learners for the challenges of tomorrow,” school officials explained. “Science and math teachers will collaborate to print 3D parabolas and more advanced figures generated by graphing calculators, [which] students would learn how to input.”
Our Lady of Good Counsel School, Moorestown, will partner with EmpowerEd – an after-school opportunity for students to receive targeted support with instructional skills and social development.
“EmpowerEd will also support OLGC’s admissions and retention by helping children meet academic expectations while continuing to thrive within their Catholic school community,” school leaders said.
Holy Cross Academy, Rumson, eighth graders pose for their last first day of school photo as a class. Mike Ehrmann photo
A theater program for students in second through fifth grades is also being introduced at OLGC, allowing children to explore more opportunities in the performing arts. Already collaborating with Triple Threat Theater for its upper grade spring play, the school will further utilize their staffing and help to develop this program.
RENOVATIONS AND UPDATES
Summer was anything but downtime, as many schools took the opportunity of empty buildings to refurbish and improve physical aspects of their properties.
Some changes helped to make schools “greener,” such as an energy-efficient boiler system and eco-friendly dishwasher in St. Benedict School, Holmdel, as well as energy-efficient lighting replacement throughout the building of St. Rose of Lima School, Freehold.
Additional improvements in St. Rose included a recess equipment shed installed by parent volunteers, revamped student store and gymnasium, and new mural in progress. St. Benedict installed new sidewalks and drainage systems, as well as updated its gym, playground,
Principal Joanna Barlow addresses faculty and staff of Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly, gathered Aug. 27 in the newly renovated library for a grand reopening, with blessing by Father John P. Czahur, pastor, standing right. The library now serves as a vital center for school classes, PTA and church meetings. Courtesy photo
building façade and gutters, and has initiated a personalized brick campaign in which patrons can honor their family, loved ones or create a memorial with a brick in a sidewalk pathway approaching the school’s entrance.
Other physical upgrades will assist with academics, like the transformation of an underutilized area into a literacy and leadership space in Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Asbury Park.
“This area will support small group
reading sessions for our English Language Learners and Comp Ed students,” school officials reported, “while serving as a site for mentorship and storytelling activities led by Trinity Hall student volunteers. The goal is to foster a love of reading, improve literacy skills and build meaningful relationships.”
Likewise, St. Leo the Great School, Lincroft, has developed a student-facing, multipurpose Media and Learning
Father Michael Lankford, pastor of Holy Cross Parish, Rumson, was on hand to greet students on their first day of school.
Mike Ehrmann photo
New school year
Center for Pre-K through eighth grade that will blend traditional literacy with modern digital learning.
“Our renovated space will offer our students daily access to books and quiet reading zones, alongside hands-on experiences with multimedia tools such as 3D printers, green screens, laptops, and smart boards,” school leadership shared. “The center will be used during the school day for integrated classroom instruction and will also host afterschool and summer enrichment programs focused on STEM, digital media, and academic support to empower students to explore, create, and thrive across academic areas in a technology-rich environment.”
On the horizon for St. Benedict is a new music room, with the project currently awaiting final permit approvals of designs already completed by architects and engineers.
“We are making great progress,” said school officials. “We can’t wait to give our students a space where their musical talents can truly flourish.”
After nearly a year of fundraising and repairs, Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly, celebrated the grand re-opening of its newly renovated library Aug. 27. Upgrades included new paint, carpeting, lighting, ceiling fans and flexible furniture.
Diocesan grants further assisted with roof and sidewalk replacement, as well as the purchase of a video production pod complete with a green screen, iPads, video cameras and an audio mixer. The multimedia station will serve as the home for the school’s Charger Nation TV channel.
“The library now serves as a vital center for everything from student classes and PTA meetings to various church committees,” said principal Joanna Barlow. “We eagerly anticipate welcoming our Sacred Heart family back to this revitalized space, which will be a center for learning, discovery and connection for
ACADEMICS
years to come.”
LIVING FAITH AND CULTURE
Ever an indispensable facet of the Catholic school experience is the exercise of faith and service in the community.
The fall will see St. Ann School students and faculty participating in the Lawrenceville parish’s Multicultural Parish Picnic on Sept. 14, representing the Dominican Republic and Puerto Rico.
“We are incredibly proud of our students and alumni for their dedication to both service and community engagement,” said principal Ameriquin Dalmasy-Laccetti.
The festival will kick off the school’s recognition of Hispanic Heritage month, highlighting the school community’s
diverse backgrounds; events like these “demonstrate the spirit of our school and lay a wonderful foundation for the academic year ahead,” Dalmasy-Laccetti said.
St. Rose of Lima looks forward to offering Hallow, the Catholic prayer and meditation app, to all its families and students, “supporting them in deepening their prayer life both at school and at home,” Leonetti said.
Active participation in parish and community life, she continued, will also be key. “From attending parish Masses and hosting food drives … to preparing for our Catholic Schools Week Mass with Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., our children will live their faith in tangible, joyful ways.”
Catholic schools: How we spent our summer vacation
Summer was spent in both industry and service, as students of Catholic schools tried their hand at new skills in camps, socialized with friends, and lent a helping hand in various ways. The listing that follows is but a sample of the great things schools in the Diocese have been up to.
Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Asbury Park Summer campers took on a variety of activities, including gardening, horseback riding and water slide play. They learned how to care for the school garden by planting seeds, watering and weeding, and created a bouquet of flowers for someone in need of extra prayers, adding their special intentions. “They’re gaining new skills, enjoying the outdoors and working together,” the school posted on Facebook in July. “We love to see the beautiful results of their hard work!” Meanwhile, eighth grade summer campers visited the Sunnyside Equestrian Center for a special horseback riding experience, while also learning how to groom and tack up the horses.
In August, students attended the 2nd Annual U.S. Open Tennis Championships Arthur Ashe Kids’ Day, a celebration honoring tennis legend Arthur Ashe and inspiring the next generation of athletes. “Thanks to our partnership with the Asbury Park Tennis Initiative, our students spent the day learning, exploring and experiencing the excitement of the game of tennis and US Open firsthand,” the school posted.
Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly The 2025 summer program, “SHS Eco-Chargers: The Summer of Sustainability,” was a two-week, immersive
experience designed to cultivate environmental stewardship in students from rising Pre-K to eighth grade.
Running the weeks of July 7 and July 14, Monday through Friday, 9 a.m. to 12 p.m., this program provided students with “engaging, hands-on activities that explore critical environmental and STEM concepts, fostering a deep understanding of sustainability and practical skills for positive change,” the school shared.
St. Ann School, Lawrenceville Students dedicated their time to the community by volunteering for the Loaves and Fishes program of St. Ann Parish at St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton. This initiative provided a meaningful opportunity for students to assist those in need and uphold the school’s commitment to service. The school also celebrated the service of its recent graduates and former students. “Alumni who served as altar servers have been recognized for their dedication as they transition to college and high school,” said principal Ameriquin Laccetti. “Their commitment serves as an inspiration for current and future students.”
A Summer Coding and Robotics
STREAM camp also rounded out St. Ann’s summer activities, offering students the chance to explore programming, engineering and technology. Through interactive projects, students learned fundamentals of coding while building and programming robots, fostering critical thinking, problem-solving, and teamwork skills.
St. Benedict School, Holmdel Melissa Catalano’s Campout Program, this year’s summer camp, was a record-breaking success, with more
A student of Our Lady of Mount Carmel School, Asbury Park, helps with school garden maintenance during a summer camp. Facebook photo
Student volunteers from St. Ann School, Lawrenceville, pause for a photo during their service at Loaves and Fishes in St. Mary of the Assumption Cathedral, Trenton. Courtesy photo
Campers show off their STEM creations in the EcoChargers summer camp run by Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly. Facebook photo
Anticipating Good Things to Come
Across the Diocese of Trenton, Catholic elementary and secondary schools in Mercer, Burlington, Monmouth and Ocean Counties began a new academic year in late August and early September. From cheerful greetings at bus stops to prayers during opening Masses, students, teachers and families embraced the start of another year grounded in hope, faith and learning. Facebook photos
Recess brought smiles for students of St. Raphael School, Hamilton, who paused for a photo Sept. 2.
Ready for a new school year, a St. Joseph School, Toms River, student steps off the bus Sept. 2.
A student in St. Charles Borromeo School, Cinnaminson, smiles on Sept. 2, the first day of school, as principal Tracey Kobrin looks on.
Deacon Richard Hobson and Father Roy Ballacillo join students Aug. 28 before the Opening Mass in Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville.
Hugs from the school mascot help ease first-day jitters Sept. 2 for students of St. Paul School, Burlington.
On Sept. 4, freshmen in St. John Vianney High School, Holmdel, explored their new school with a club fair and scavenger hunt.
St. Rose Grammar School students in Belmar traded boogie boards for schoolbooks Sept. 3, the first day of classes, joined by principal Kevin Donahue.
Kindergarten students and their parents gather Sept. 2 outside St. Peter School, Point Pleasant, for a bittersweet goodbye before heading into the classroom on the first day of school.
Annual Catholic Schools Mass on Oct. 16 to be livestreamed
The tradition of bringing Catholic school students from around the Diocese together for a Mass with their Bishop will once again take place Oct. 16.
More than 500 representatives from 33 schools are scheduled to join Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and many of the Diocese priests, for the annual Catholic Schools Mass at 10:30 a.m. in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold.
Though the Mass is not open to the public, it will be livestreamed on the diocesan YouTube channel, www.youtube. com/trentondiocese.
The Mass will begin with the playing of music by a bell choir at 10 a.m. At 10:15 will be a procession during which
students will carry flags or banners representing their respective schools. Students from St. Catharine School, Spring Lake, under the direction of Natalya Bencivenga, will form the choir and lead the music for the Mass.
Added to the highlights of this year’s Mass will be the presentation of the first Lumen Gentium Award by the Department of Catholic Schools to a deserving school.
The Department reported that the Lumen Gentium Award is a new initiative geared to highlight and promote the “best practices in Catholic education in the Diocese of Trenton.”
Stay connected with The Monitor for live updates from the Mass and full coverage on TrentonMonitor.com.
MOA signing forges continued vision for keeping students safe
The MOA is created to ensure cooperation between law enforcement and Catholic schools countywide with the goal of working together to address problems and emergencies.
In his remarks, Dr. Schmidt reflected on the day’s significance saying that “it is an important moment for our Catholic schools in Monmouth County. This Memorandum of Agreement reflects the strong partnership between school leadership and law enforcement, but on our shared commitment to keeping students and the community safe.”
In Monmouth County, there are five Catholic high schools and 10 grammar schools serving either pre-kindergarten or kindergarten through eighth grade. Each county within the Diocese of Trenton has similar agreements. Staff photo
Monmouth County Prosecutor Raymond S. Santiago Aug. 26 for the signing of a renewed memorandum of agreement between their respective organizations.
Staff from the diocesan Department of Catholic Schools, including Dr. Vincent de Paul Schmidt, superintendent, and Bonnie Milecki, assistant superintendent of development and operations, met with
Catholic Schools Mass 2024. Monitor file photo
Pairs of pastors and school principals offered information on best practices to their counterparts during the retreat. Shown from left are, Maureen Tuohy, principal of Our Lady of Sorrows Parish, Hamilton; Msgr. Thomas N. Gervasio, pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, Hamilton; Mara Tiernan, principal of St. Dominic School, Brick, and Father Brian Woodrow, pastor of St. Dominic Parish. Courtesy photo
Diocese’s principals, teachers are ready for 2025-2026 school year
In gearing up for the new school year, the diocesan Department of Catholic Schools hosted gatherings for parish and school leaders, providing them with information and words of encouragement and support.
On Aug. 13, the Diocesan Chancery served as the site for a School Leadership Retreat for principals and priests during which the department, along with a group of mentor pastor/ principal pairs, spoke on best practices in Catholic school leadership. Among the department presenters were Dr. Vincent de Paul Schmidt, diocesan superintendent of Catholic education,
and Daniel O’Connell, associate superintendent. Pastors and principals present included Msgr. Thomas Gervasio, pastor of Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, Hamilton, and Maureen Tuohy, principal of Our Lady of Sorrows School; and Father Brian Woodrow, pastor of St. Dominic Parish, Brick, and Mara Tiernan, principal of St. Dominic School.
Five days later, dozens of principals returned to the Chancery for a convocation which included Mass celebrated by Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and presentations given by diocesan personnel.
Bishop O’Connell celebrated Mass for Catholic school principals Aug. 18 in the Diocesan Chancery chapel, Lawrenceville. Here the Bishop listens as Kathy Leonetti, principal of St. Rose of Lima School, Freehold, proclaims the Reading. Rose O’Connor photo
Priests and Catholic school principals participate in the retreat offered by the diocesan Department of Catholic Schools. Courtesy photo
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Return of athletics marked by new leadership and high hopes for schools
BY RICH FISHER Contributing Editor
As another school year gets underway, several fall athletic teams are looking for strong seasons, while some newcomers are taking over high-profile programs in Diocese of Trenton schools.
Here’s a look at several noteworthy items for each athletic program.
DONOVAN CATHOLIC, TOMS RIVER
For the first time in seven seasons, the Griffins football team suffered a losing campaign in 2024, going 2-7 after recording a 34-18 mark the previous six years.
But there is reason for renewed optimism this season thanks to several strong returnees, some talented newcomers and a highly touted transfer.
Anchoring the offensive line is fourstar recruit Kai Pritchard, a University of Illinois commit who is the top ranked senior O-lineman in the state this year. Other key returnees are senior Colin Johnson (WR/DB) and juniors Diondre Foendoe (LB/FB), Ethan Nicholas (RB/ LB), Carter Smith (OL/DL) and Nyron Serling (WR/DB).
Seton Hall Prep transfer Kahden Davis, a three-star recruit, provides the Griffins with the state’s top-ranked junior quarterback. Davis threw for 507 yards and three TDs and ran for 98 yards and one TD while sharing time last season.
Other key transfers include junior safety Jael Hester, who recorded 32 tackles at Toms River North last season; 6-2, 250-pound junior offensive lineman Ben Lubin (from Monmouth Regional), and junior Alex Staten, who led Ocean Township with 522 rushing yards and seven TDS.
NOTRE DAME, LAWRENCEVILLE
The Irish girls volleyball team is coming off a NJSIAA South Jersey Non-Public A championship season, and coach Tony Carpenter feels there is enough talent to compete for that title again.
Key returnees are senior setter Mia Ligamarri (115 digs, 266 assists), senior libero Emily Deussing (352 digs, 56 aces, 72 assists) and senior middle blocker Maya Foley (103 kills, 48½ blocks), who helped the program build a winning culture. Carpenter is looking to make sure this year’s newcomers understand what needs to be done as a team and individuals.
“They’re emphasizing the buy-in that was required, the attention to detail, the drive and the dedication that was required for us to make it back to the top of the mountain, and they are holding their teammates accountable,” Carpenter said. “Their talent will be relied on heavily to carry us, especially in the early part of the season until the newer players get acclimated.”
Other veterans are Delaney Meszaros, Sophia Malaty, Makensie Meszaros and Grace Hempsell, while Tatum Justus and Morgana Trombino are key newcomers.
“Last year we had a more experienced team,” Carpenter said. “It’s going to take as a little longer to gel and execute at the level we did last season. We were able to sneak up on some teams but this year teams are going to be gunning for us which means we have to bring our A game every night.”
RED BANK CATHOLIC, RED BANK
The Caseys field hockey team has a new head coach in Belly Reynoso, who takes over for Nikki Cummins (maternity leave).
Reynoso – who coached at Lakewood Middle School last year and has coached various top-level club programs after playing for Lock Haven and Kean Universities – is enthused about her team’s potential.
“My hope for this season is to continue building on the foundation that’s already here – compete hard in every game, develop our younger players, and push for postseason success,” Reynoso said. “With this much experience and depth, I think this team can surprise a lot of people.”
RBC returns 17 players from a team that went 8-10-3 last year, including senior midfielder/defender Marly Manzo, one of four sisters on the Caseys who scored a team-high eight goals with two assists last year; sophomore forward Phoebe Howard (5 goals, 3 assists); junior defender Luna McPolin (2 goals, 3 assists); sophomore midfielder Carina Reginio and sophomore goalie Charlotte Magliaro.
“The biggest strength of this group is their chemistry,” Reynoso said. “With so many returners, they know each other well, and the leadership from the upperclassmen really sets the tone. We’re also very strong defensively and have a solid midfield that can control the pace of the game.”
ST. JOHN VIANNEY, HOLMDEL
The Lancers have two major athletic hires, as Brian Chapman takes over as athletic director for interim AD Russell Gartz, and Greg Penta replaces Bobby Acosta as head football coach.
In 15 seasons as Millburn’s baseball coach, Chapman’s teams won 292 games, two NJSIAA Group IV state titles and six sectional titles.
In a press release from SJV, Gartz said, “Brian is a dedicated educator who is totally committed to his faith, SJV’s
in Diocese
mission, integrity and leadership. We have complete confidence that he will lead our athletic programs to improved success.”
Penta has 15 years of high school football coaching experience, and as the quarterbacks coach at Long Branch he produced five consecutive All-Shore Conference signal callers.
“Greg not only understands the mission and values of this institution, but he is a tremendous example for our student-athletes – as a husband, father, teacher and a man of faith,” SJV president Steven DiMezza said in a press release. “We are confident that under his leadership, our football program will have stability and make our school and community proud.”
ST. ROSE, BELMAR
After Brian Lynch turned St. Rose’s boys basketball team into a state power in his four years, the call to return home was strong as Lynch returned to his alma mater at Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft.
Inheriting a program that went 76-15 with a state title and two trips to the state finals over the past three seasons is Chris Alesi, the former head coach at Manhattanville University in Purchase, N.Y.
Alesi went 80-57 for a .584 winning percentage, the highest of any Manhattanville coach with multiple seasons with the team. The Valiants reached the Skyline Conference Tournament championship game in 2022 and 2023. Alesi was an assistant at Wagner University under Dan Hurley, who went on to win two national titles at the University of Connecticut.
On the high school level, Alesi has served as director of player development and recruiting for the nationally renowned New Jerey Shoreshots AAU program.
Senior Khaden Davis dominates in Donovan Catholic’s first home football game of the season Aug. 31 against Kingsway, Woolwich Township. Facebook photo
After a successful career at Manhattanville College, Chris Alesi takes over a St. Rose basketball program that has won two Shore Conference tournaments and been to the state finals the past two years. Courtesy photo
Maya Foley is back at middle blocker for Notre Dame after recording 103 kills and 48-1/2 blocks last season. Photo courtesy of Notre Dame Communications
From left to right, Bridget Ryan, Lily Dziedzic, Brigid Leary and Marley Manzo hope to lift the promising Red Bank Catholic field hockey team as impressively as they can lift teammate Amanda Foster. Photo courtesy of Red Bank Catholic
Brian Chapman takes over as the new St. John Vianney Athletic Director for the 2025-26 school year. Photo courtesy of St. John Vianney
“Always be ready to give an explanation…for a reason for your hope.” (1 Pet 3:15)
Catechetical Sunday
September 21, 2025
Catechetical Sunday to commission, infuse hope in catechists
BY EMMALEE ITALIA Contributing Editor
Celebrating those who hand on the Catholic faith to the next generation, Catechetical Sunday will be celebrated this year on Sept. 21 with a Jubilee Year theme, “Always be ready to give an explanation…for a reason for your hope” (1 Pet 3:15).
Catechists – including those ministering in parish religious education programs or Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, and teaching religion in Catholic schools – will be recognized and commissioned at Masses throughout the Diocese and the nation that day with special blessings. As primary educators and catechists of their children, parents and guardians are also honored on Catechetical Sunday for their role in imparting the Catholic faith in their families.
FORMING THOSE WHO FORM
Support for catechists in the Diocese has been buoyed by multiple faith formation and collaborative opportunities, including ongoing catechetical training
as well as the Hope in Our Hearts Conference in March.
“This conference has sparked hope in the hearts and minds of catechists across our Diocese,” noted Denise Contino, director of the diocesan Department of Catechesis. “We are experiencing a new desire by catechists to engage in formation to be more equipped to pass on the faith.”
“It is a response to the call of Christ to ‘go and make disciples.’”
Over the past few years, many parish catechists and Catholic school teachers have completed the diocesan Certificate in Catechesis in both English and Spanish, she said.
The Certificate has two components: the Art of Catechesis, which 829 catechists have completed, and more than 100 have completed the theology component to receive full certification since 2021.
“This achievement is no small task,” Contino said, noting both the academic
and spiritual commitments required. “It is a response to the call of Christ to ‘go and make disciples’ (Matthew 28:19), and a testament to each participant’s personal desire to grow in holiness while leading others on that same path.”
The Jubilee Year will continue the Diocese’s efforts to support catechists with multiple CATechist Chats planned – one-hour virtual meetings with practitioners in the field.
“Additionally, we are committed to our Confirmation programs and the formation of adolescent catechists,” Contino added. “We offer a ‘Crash Course in Confirmation – let’s get past graduation.’ This year Colin MacIver will be joining us virtually to unpack strategies for making Catholic social teaching accessible and compelling to youth.”
DAUNTING YET POSSIBLE
Passing on the faith in a culture in which it is often unsupported and frequently questioned is a challenging mission for catechists, she noted.
“The theme of Catechetical Sunday urges catechists to grow in their own
Convocation was time for PCLs to be rejuvenated and updated in their ministry
Parish catechetical leaders join in group discussions.
Father Michael Kennedy, pastor of St. Luke Parish, Toms River, center, celebrates Mass for the parish catechetical leaders. Concelebrating priests are Father Peter James Alindogan, pastor, St. Veronica Parish, Howell, left, and Father Jarlath Quinn, pastor, Our Lady of Perpetual HelpSt. Agnes Parish, Atlantic Highlands, right.
At the podium, keynote speaker Dr. Joseph White speaks on the topic: “Empowered for Mission: The Future of Evangelizing Catechesis in Light of New National Goals.”
Parish catechetical leaders from throughout the Diocese gathered for their annual convocation Sept. 4 in St. Luke Parish, Toms River.
With “Empowered for Mission: The Future for Evangelizing Catechesis in Light of New National Goals” as the theme, the convocation, hosted by the Department of Catechesis, featured keynoter Dr. Joseph White, a child and family psychologist and associate publisher for Catechetical Resources at OSV Publishing. The workshop’s theme was inspired by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Institute on the Catechism.”
During the convocation, Dr. White reflected on the new Handbook on the Catechetical Accompaniment Process, which replaces the former USCCB Conformity Protocol for catechetical texts, outlines goals for religious education programs in Catholic schools and parishes. He shared that the new handbook moves from purely content-oriented objective goals to goals that span three domains: cognitive (concepts to be learned); interior life (attitudes or dispositions to be fostered), and behavioral (action steps to living and sharing the faith at home, school and in the larger community).
LOOKING AHEAD TO CATECHETICAL SUNDAY OBSERVANCES
Persons serving their parish and school communities in catechetical ministry, including religious education, Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, adult faith formation, Scripture studies and other teachers of the Catholic faith, will be recognized on Catechetical Sunday, which this year is Sept. 21. Coverage of celebrations will be posted on TrentonMonitor.com.
Courtesy photos
CATECHETICAL SUNDAY
St. Charles Borromeo School provides a high-quality academic and religious education for boys and girls in grades PreK-3 through 8th grade. Operating within the Diocese of Trenton, St. Charles is centrally located in Cinnaminson, New Jersey and draws students from over 22 area school districts.
faith and understanding to be able to express their reason for hope and pass that on to their learners,” Contino said. “We all have stories of hope in our lives that ultimately lead us to placing our trust in Christ’s promise of eternal life.”
The theme also aligns beautifully with hope during the Jubilee year, Contino observed.
“It serves as a powerful reminder that catechists are not merely transmitters of doctrine, but also witnesses of hope,” she said. “[It] calls catechists to deepen their own relationship with Christ and to reflect on the personal experiences that have shaped their faith,” which she said equips them to share both Church teaching and how it brings them hope.
Authenticity and courage, Contino said, in sharing their own faith stories helps catechists to connect with their learners.
“Everyone has moments of grace, struggle, and renewal that point to the enduring hope we find in Christ. Sharing these stories can open hearts and minds, making their time with learners help grow in their relationship with Christ.”
The connection seems to be working, as over the past two years “the Diocese has seen a significant increase in younger people requesting the Sacraments through the Order of Christian Initiation, which has been very exciting for us as a local Church,” Contino said. “In turn, the entire county has seen the numbers of adults coming into the Church rise dramatically.”
In Sacred Heart Parish, Mount Holly, the “Mini Vinnies” and “Young Vincentians” recently held a blessing bag event to assist people in need. Here, religious education students from third grade through high school help to package bags with their families.
Team members from Visitation Parish, Brick, discuss their project during a gathering of the 11 parishes participating in the NCCL initiative.
Diocese joins national project geared to
BY MARY STADNYK Associate Editor
In the eyes of the Catholic Church, the most effective means for teaching children about the faith is when their families are involved, but it can be challenging as parents, caregivers and even grandparents deal with their daily responsibilities.
As a way to help families include their faith in their daily lives regularly, some Diocesan parishes are participating in a new, five-year national project, “Parents & Families at the Center of Faith Formation.” Developed by the National Community of Catechetical Leaders, the project focuses on strategies to strengthen the transmission of the faith at home during the first two decades of life and create parishes that support the entire family.
The NCCL said factors leading to the project’s development included: increasing diversity in family structures and declining numbers of Catholics participating at Mass; it focuses on the reception of the Sacraments of Initiation; the number of children enrolled in parish religious education programs, and the varying religious experiences of parents.
“This project challenges us to shift our focus from simply providing programs to creating a culture where faith is nurtured first and foremost within the family,” said Denise Contino, director of the diocesan Department of Catechesis. “If we are serious about shaping the next generation of Catholics, then we must intentionally work alongside parents and listen to their needs.”
The project, launched in 2024 and funded by a $1.25 million grant from the Lilly Foundation, is working with 200 Catholic parishes and 30,000 families across the country. Contino said diocesan staff selected parishes based “on their existing engagement with families in some capacity, ensuring them that they were not starting from scratch.” She said that, during the five years, NCCL personnel will facilitate in-person workshops, monthly online consultation, and support meetings and resources.
The 11 Diocesan parishes using the project are Holy Innocents, Neptune; Our Lady of Good Counsel, Moorestown; Sacred Heart, Mount Holly; St. Anselm, Tinton Falls; St. Charles Borromeo, Cinnaminson; St. Denis, Manasquan; St. Joan of Arc, Marlton; St. Luke, Toms River; St. Mary, Colts Neck;
St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold; and Visitation, Brick.
CREATIVE METHODS
Each parish collected information about the needs and faith practices of families through surveys and “parent cafes,” Contino said. Overall, the surveys indicated families most often practice faith through conversations, shared meals and celebrating Church seasons. Parents also expressed interest in topics such as discussing tough issues with their children, improving communication and balancing life commitments. The parent cafes gave parents a chance to share what values they want to instill in their children, how they live their faith daily and how the Church can better support them.
Parish teams are making progress in coming up with creative family initiatives.
Sacred Heart Parish already offered several faith formation opportunities for students in grades one through eight to accommodate their families’ schedules. Parish catechetical leader Barbara Kane said her team aims to expand its reach to include toddlers, high school children and all parents through its EPIC
Courtesy photo
Courtesy photo
strengthen faith formation in families
project – Empowering Parents in Christ – which includes family activities based on children’s various age groups.
For the first year, Kane’s team plans to have families work together through a “Bible 101” family event, a “Meet and Greet” and provide resources that families can use for discussions at home.
“We wanted to participate in the NCCL project because we understand the growing societal stress parents and families are experiencing,” Kane said.
“Gone are the days of family Sunday dinners and Sundays being a day of rest, as families are now traveling to their children’s sporting events or parents are working on the weekend,” Kane acknowledged. “The NCCL project provides an opportunity for parishes to consider new methods of helping families include their faith in their daily lives and find moments to return to more relaxing family time together.”
When the team in St. Charles Borromeo Parish realized that the parish’s current baptismal preparation process was outdated, members directed energy toward faith formation that’s related to sacramental preparation, said Michele Dore, parish catechetical leader.
Along with helping families to “feel
welcome, become more engaged and be more aware of Church teaching,” Dore said the team believes families “will want to foster their relationship with God and be more inclined to attend Mass regularly and practice their faith.”
“When children are school-age and ready to receive Sacraments, we want the Sacraments to be an exciting time for the whole family,” Dore said. “We have a lot of work to do, but are committed to the project and working with NCCL to achieve our goals.”
LITTLE ‘DOMESTIC CHURCHES’
Grace-Filled Parenting is the project for St. Denis Parish, said catechetical leader Eileen Ziesmer. The team seeks to enhance its Baptism program by expanding outreach from the time a child is baptized to the child’s early religious education involvement by developing stronger social media connections.
Ziesmer said the team hopes to try to get parents focused on “living a Catholic identity in the day-to-day activities of their lives.”
“It has to be continuous and, with God’s help, seamless,” Ziesmer said.
St. Joan of Arc Parish currently holds various faith formation options, includ-
ing weekly traditional classes, a summer intensive, catch-up classes for religious ed, a supported home study model for certain grades and a class for children with special needs. But Jessica Donohue, parish catechetical leader, said it was the parish’s recently introduced family option for first graders and their parents that motivated collaboration with the NCCL.
Donohue said she saw “firsthand how the parents enjoy and benefit from experiencing faith formation with their children.”
She said the team plans social media and digital communication tools and platforms to reach families from Baptism on. A series of talks is also being developed for parents, “and we are looking to add to the family retreats that have become popular in the parish.”
“Our Church teaches that families are little ‘domestic churches,’ because it sees the home as the place where the faith is modeled, lived and learned within the family in the realities of everyday life,” Donohue said. “I think that family catechesis is developing a major focus in faith formation for many reasons, and the work of the NCCL seems to be at the forefront of exploring new, creative ways we can accompany our families.”
Representatives from parish teams share highlights of their parish projects during a meeting held in St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, Freehold. At right, Denise Contino, director of the Department of Catechesis, facilitates the discussion. Courtesy photo
Father Daniel Kirk and the team from St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Cinnaminson, engage in conversation about the NCCL project during a recent gathering of parish team members. Courtesy photo
