April 24, 2025

Having journeyed together through Lent, Catholics of the Diocese prayed, worshipped and reflected during the Triduum and joyfully celebrated Easter with Jubilee hope. Read Bishop James F. Checchio’s Easter message and see Chrism Mass, Holy Week and Easter coverage at pgs.2-3, 22-23. —John Batkowski photo

Dear friends of the Diocese of Metuchen,

Easter 2025

“With such great joy does Christ fill our hearts this day by His Resurrection, not alone because He gives us the gladness of this day, but because He has also given us salvation through His Passion, immortality through His Death, healing of our wounds, and resurrection from our fall!” - St. Proclus of Constantinople

In this graced-filled Holy Year of Jubilee, especially as we share the date of our Easter joy with our Orthodox brothers and sisters, I wish you and your loved ones the peace of Christ. As you attend Mass and gather with loved ones for an Easter feast, let us all cry out in our hearts, “Alleluia! Christ is risen! He is risen indeed!”

Let us, like the devoted women who found the tomb empty, tell everyone the angels’ message that Jesus has been raised. With our Lenten sacrifices completed, we now step out of our spiritual tombs and look forward with joy and optimism to a whole Easter Season to live as “Pilgrims of Hope” as Pope Francis has called us to be this Holy Year.

I give thanks to God for you and your kind support in so many ways. I promise you a place in my prayers at Mass on Easter Sunday. Please remember me in your prayers as well.

Blessed Holy Week and Happy Easter! With renewed best wishes, I remain Yours in Christ,

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

Vatican announces canonization of Blessed Acutis is postponed

By Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – With the death of Pope Francis, the canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis, which was scheduled for April 27, has been postponed. Following the death of the Supreme Pontiff Francis, notice is hereby given that the Eucharistic celebration and the rite of the canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis, scheduled for April 27, 2025, second Sunday of Easter or Divine Mercy Sunday, on the occasion of the Jubilee of Adolescents, is suspended,” the Vatican press office announced April 21. The Mass for the Jubilee of Adolescents, however, would still be held, Matteo Bruni, head of the press office told reporters, clarifying that what had been canceled was a Mass for a canonization. The Holy Year and its associated events and Masses would continue, he added. The Jubilee of Adolescents was scheduled for April 25-27 in Rome. Pope Francis had approved the decree for the canonization of Blessed Acutis May 23, 2024, and announced the date for his canonization end of November. He will be the first millennial to become a saint.

The Resurrection is depicted in this 19th-century mosaic by artist Bernard Bonnefon. Easter, the chief feast in the liturgical calendars of all Christian churches, commemorates Jesus Christ’s resurrection from the dead. Easter is celebrated April 20 this year. —OSV News artwork/Bridgeman Images

Statement of Most Rev. James F. Checchio, JCD, MBA, Bishop of Metuchen, on the passing of Pope Francis:

With heavy hearts the Diocese of Metuchen mourns the passing of His Holiness, Pope Francis. From the moment of his election as Supreme Pontiff when he took the name Francis, our Holy Father has emphasized the mercy of God, embracing in his Petrine ministry the poor, the migrant, the marginalized and all those broken by this world’s problems and concerns. We entrust his noble soul to the hands of our Blessed Mother to accompany him to our Father’s house. In this Jubilee year in which Pope Francis called us to be Pilgrims of Hope, he has now made the ultimate pilgrimage to the embrace of our loving God.

Yours in Christ,

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

Chrism Mass reaffirms God ‘sees the good in us’

By Christina Leslie Contributing Editor

“Jesus saw the good in his apostles, not what was missing,” Bishop James F. Checchio reminded the congregation seated before him in the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi for the April 15 Diocese of Metuchen Chrism Mass. “The same is true for us: God sees the good in us… He sees a reflection of himself in us and loves us. What a blessing.”

Hundreds of faithful were in attendance to witness the Mass where clergy renew their priestly promises and sacramental oils are blessed and distributed. Laity, religious, deacons, seminarians and parish representatives served as joyful witnesses to the annual faith-filled liturgy. Bishop Checchio served as principal celebrant and homilist, with priests of the Diocese concelebrating.

In his homily, Bishop Checchio recalled his nearly 20 years of study and service in Rome, including as a seminarian, student priest and work with men in formation for the priesthood. One of the art history professors, the Bishop recounted, usually ended his tours of the Vatican museums and cathedrals with a visit to the Belvedere Torso by Apollonus of Athens, an ancient Greek sculpture consisting solely of a marble torso.

“The students would develop a keen eye for art,” Bishop Checchio said, “but would only describe the missing parts of

the statue. The professor would interrupt them, saying, ‘What IS there is the most important thing.’”

He reminded his listeners that the Holy Father had asked for the Church to observe a Jubilee of Hope, saying, “This is our task: to see one another as God’s beloved sons and daughters, to see the good and not what is missing.”

The Bishop concluded, “The Eucharist is the most important thing in our lives to help us to love. As we renew our priestly promises, ask for him to let us always see what God sees in us, not what is missing… I am grateful to be on this pilgrimage of hope.”

Addressing the scores of priests –some new to the fold, others more seasoned – all vested in white, Bishop Checchio invited them to stand and reaffirm the vows they first uttered at their ordination. Asking them if they were “resolved to be more united with the Lord Jesus and closely conformed to him… to be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God… to discharge faithfully the sacred office of teaching… moved only by zeal for souls,” the priests replied as one, “I am.”

Then addressing the congregation, Bishop Checchio asked they “pray for your priests that the Lord may pour out his gifts abundantly upon them and keep them faithful as ministers of Christ, the High Priest, so that they may lead you to him, the source of salvation. Pray also for me,” he continued, “that I may be faithful to the apostolic office

entrusted to me in my lowliness.”

“Christ, hear us, Christ, graciously hear us,” the faithful responded.

Traditionally scheduled at the start of Holy Week, the annual Chrism Mass is the occasion when three vessels of oils are blessed and consecrated: the Oil of the Sick, to be used during the Sacrament of the Anointing of the Sick; the Oil of Catechumens, used to baptize new Catholics, and the oil with which the addition of fragrance becomes Sacred Chrism. That Chrism will be used to anoint the heads of the newly baptized

and confirmed, the hands of a priest at his ordination, and the altar and walls of new churches. The large vessels of oils and Chrism blessed at the Cathedral are divided into smaller jars and distributed to all the parishes of the Diocese.

—Hal Brown photos

For more Chrism Mass photos see page 37.

Choices Matter

conference discusses mental health issues

By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor

“Thank you for your commitment to our faith, to our Church and especially the Eucharist,” said Bishop James F. Checchio to the congregation seated within the chapel of the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Piscataway, March 29. “Thanks for your dedication. Let us keep ourselves focused on Jesus, keep us close to his own Sacred Heart.”

The important role of the Catholic Church in offering faith-filled treatment of mental illness was the theme of the annual day-long 2025 Choices Matter - A Critical Life Issues Conference, the 24th such event sponsored by the diocesan Office of Human Life and Dignity. The program of diverse speakers, prayer, book signings, fellowship, pro-life and mental health exhibits, along with the opportunities of Eucharistic Adoration and Confessions, began with Mass celebrated by the Bishop.

A quartet of speakers educated, energized and inspired the attendees in their keynote presentations.

GOD’S GREATEST CREATIONS

In her autobiographical presentation entitled “The Light in Our Darkness,” speaker Lisa Kratz Thomas maintained that the war against Satan is real and insidious.

“We have an enemy who wants nothing more than to kill us,” she told the audience. “He comes to steal, to devour and to destroy; he manipulates our choices and decisions through circumstances, feelings and situations. We are not fighting flesh and blood.”

Thomas described her youth and young adulthood as a self-destructive mix of suicidal tendencies, alcoholism, drug abuse, homelessness, incarceration and prostitution; “I thought God was for holy people, and I didn’t realize I was one of God’s greatest creations,” she admitted.

Her involvement in a 12-step recovery program led her back to God’s

loving protection, Thomas said. “I recommitted my life to Christ and started turning this around. I asked for surrender and forgiveness.” A political advocate helped her secure an appointment to a Senate Sub-Committee that studied prisoner reentry in Virginia, and Thomas has worked with the Virginia Department of Corrections presenting her self-created reentry seminar to multiple facilities.

The married mother of two, author of three books and former radio talk show host reminded the audience to realize their own worth. “Every person in here has a pulpit. Some decisions we make carry a great weight,” Thomas said. “We are supposed to be fountains that living water can flow through. It’s our job to show Jesus with skin on.”

She concluded, “Despite all my flaws, God has blessed me with fulfillment, purpose and joy. God’s love is unwavering. He cleans us up and uses us in mighty, mighty ways. There is always time for God to change our lives.”

Scores of life-loving faithful flocked to the 29th annual Critical Life Issues Conference March 29 in Piscataway. (Top) Attendees of all ages visited informative displays from area agencies, including an opportunity (middle) to meet author and speaker Lisa Kratz Thomas. Bottom left, Bishop James F. Checchio greets the diocese’s second Spanish-speaking diaconate formation class and their wives, now in their second of five years of study. Formation Director Deacon Edgar Chaves stands fourth from left, and Director of the Diaconate Deacon Stephen Kern is far right. —Hal Brown photos

IT'S ALL IN YOUR HEAD

Erin McCole Cupp, a wife, mother, Lay Dominican and certified trauma recovery coach, asserts mental health is THE pro-life issue, for the unique composition and operation of the human brain helps us build the culture of life.

Through her work with Amabilis Coaching and Consulting, Cupp is herself on a 30-year journey of recovery from mother/daughter sexual abuse, compulsive overeating, binge eating and developmental and betrayal trauma. She coaches, writes and speaks about mental health, family trauma and addiction recovery from a Catholic perspective.

“How we make choices impacts every issue when it comes to advocating for the dignity of human life,” said Cupp. “It may destroy our confidence and the ability to get through discomfort. There are isolated characteristics that destroy our confidence: pride, perfectionism, self-reliance and fear all come from the disruption of the healthy maturation process of the human brain.”

Cupp described the functions of each part of the human brain and told the group, “Without a healthy, mature brain you cannot make healthy choices. Humans were designed to go through stages and encounter developmental tasks as we age.

“Genesis tells us that we are a social species, and it is not good for us to be without each other,” she declared. “If we cannot trust the people around us to image God for us, most of the time we are not secure enough to progress to other stages.

“We were made for paradise… and we live here,” Cupp said wryly. “We can only show God’s love when we act as God would. Humans can’t learn while they are in a threat response. We can only reach people when we are experienced as safe; when we talk about the science, we show our [pro-choice] opponents that we have a lot in common.”

Bishop James F. Checchio celebrates the conference’s opening Mass. He is joined at the altar by Deacon Stephen F. Kern, director, Office of the Diaconate, left, and Deacon Jan Magcawas.

Leave it to a former Las Vegas entertainer to lead an audience from joy to sorrow in just a few minutes.

Keaton Douglas began her presentation, “The Road to Hope: Responding to the Crisis of Addiction,” by inviting the audience to join her with a heartfelt rendition of “Amazing Grace,” then shared facts and figures on the heartache of mental illness which affects this country today.

Douglas studied for her master’s degree in theology at the Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology, Seton Hall. She began a retreat for women in recovery at the Shrine of St. Joseph in Stirling, and recalled, “I received compassion and love from them. What we have in common as wounded children of God: I saw Christ in them.”

What does the Church know about addiction and recovery, she wondered. “The answer is in a number: 205,000; 95,000 was the number of deaths from alcohol abuse in 2023, the remaining 110,000 were deaths from overdose that year,” she cited. “That’s 2-1/2 times the people that can fit into MetLife Stadium. And on a daily basis, this country loses 301 to overdoses.”

Douglas continued, “That 205,000 is an important number for politicians, for clinicians, for statisticians; for people of faith, it is not enough. We must see past the number to look at the unique human dignity of each of those persons, to recognize the struggle of each, recognize our own brokenness in them, to provide hope, healing and spiritual consolation to the families of those lost and to the families of those still suffering.”

To those that question the Church’s role in this crisis, she maintained, the negative emotions require a spiritual remedy, and all addictions require spiritual healing. Scripture and the commandments to love our God and love each other demand it. They are the very Cross itself, Douglas added.

In response, Douglas created the iTHIRST Initiative, a comprehensive program which focuses on spirituality in the prevention, treatment, and aftercare of those suffering from substance use disorders and their families. The iTHIRST Spiritual Companionship Training instructs lay leaders and clergy on the spiritual dimension of addiction and recovery, certified through Seton Hall University.

“If you call it a moral failing, if you call it a spiritual disease, if you call it a bad choice… Has anyone here ever made a bad choice?” Douglas asked the audience. “I think the most important thing as Catholics is to see the pain at the root of this choice. How can I offer you love, how can I offer you His mercy, how can I help you in His name?

“An empowered Church must have boots on the ground,” she concluded. “It must be able to say, ‘Come home. You are welcome here.’”

Erin McCole Cupp

Presenter Keaton Douglas shares a laugh with Bishop Checchio and an audience member, while (bottom) Deacon Edward Shoener, who ministers in St. Peter’s Cathedral in the Diocese of Scranton, speaks about suicide prevention ministry and his late daughter Katie. —Hal Brown photos

YEARS

Life Choices Resource Center, Metuchen, has reason to celebrate!

• Walking with moms in need

• Praying for all life, from conception to natural death

• Saving the lives of God’s precious, unborn babies

• Providing cribs, strollers, car seats, clothing, diapers, and formula to those in need

• Assisting clients in finding affordable housing, medical insurance, financial aid, and food pantries

• Educating women about the risks of abortion

• Encouraging adoption as a choice

• Lactation advice

• Post abortion support

AMAZING!!! God has blessed us abundantly and provided us with incredible volunteers who are so faithful, dedicated and loving. We are a family at Life Choices and our clients feel the love and support we give them, unconditionally.

On Sunday, Feb. 23, Life Choices celebrated all these accomplishments and more with 350 guests at the Pines Manor, Edison. Father Sean Winters opened the evening with a prayer and a special intention for the health of Pope Francis. During the evening, faithful servants, Michael and Bernadette Gilligan and Deacon Bob and Elaine Yunker were honored for their loyalty, commitment and dedication to the ministry of Life. Clients from Life Choices offered their testimonies about their struggles and challenges and how Life Choices is there for them 24/7! The Student Ambassadors presented a Life affirming program. Father Roy Quesea and Father Kevin Kelly donated their talents of original artwork of the Holy Family and the Madonna with Child as part of the traditional ‘tricky tray’ which offered guests a chance to win over 30 prizes in addition to the 50/50. Everyone came together for the common cause of Saving Babies, Walking with Moms in Need and spending an enjoyable evening with friends and family.

Come to Life Choices, Metuchen!

Contributed by Elaine Yunker, director of outreach and consultant for

and 1st row bottom: Sue Williamson, advisor, with Student Ambassadors: Noah, Gabby, Rowena, Ed, Lorena.  Standing are: Lorraine Taurone, advisor, with Student Ambassadors: Elan, Mariele, Celine, Erica, Charlotte. —Courtesy photos

Pictured from top to bottom photos, at the annual Life Choices Charity Banquet, “Miracles on Main,” are special guest Bill Spadea; Deacon Bob and Elaine Yunker; Michael and Bernadette Gilligan; Linda Lombardi, consultant, with her clients,

By Susan Odenthal, Correspondent

It’s tough to be a teen, speaker Braden Johnson told the roughly 75 middle schoolers and high schoolers gathered on April 5 for Diocesan Youth Day. Lots of heads nodded in agreement, some visibly pleased that their personal journeys had been affirmed out loud.

The tweens and teens had settled into the theater at Immaculata High School, host for the day, after a raucous set of ice breaker games led by BOLD youth ministers from the tri-parish youth ministry of Blessed Sacrament, St. Bernard of Clairvaux and Immaculate Conception parishes.

Johnson, a 25-year old speaker from Kansas who has addressed many similar groups throughout the country, related to the attendees in terms they understood. “We spend a lot of time and energy to get more ‘likes’,” he said, referring to the hours spent creating social media personas. “Why do we want more likes? What is it we really want?”

He told the story of a back-up quarterback at a California high school who kept grinding it out, becoming the backup quarterback on his college team and ultimately the 199th overall draft pick in the 2000 NFL draft – Tom Brady. Interviewed on “60 Minutes,” Brady would later question why with three Super Bowl rings he continued to yearn for something more, Johnson said.

“Maybe it’s not about us trying to prove ourselves,” Johnson told the teens after recounting stories of his own disappointments. “Maybe it’s about us bringing everything to Jesus. That’s where we can find amazing fulfillment and peace.”

Jay Donofrio, diocesan youth minister and organizer of this year’s youth day, closed that session with his own advice to the group. “If this resonated with you, it’s probably because we can relate it to our own struggles,” he said. “We still go to bed with a million thoughts, and we can’t go to sleep. Put it in Jesus Christ.” Throughout the day, the attendees were reminded of the words of St. Augustine, who in his Confessions, said: “You have made us for yourself, O Lord, and our hearts are restless until they rest in You.”

When the group then broke for lunch, the teens acknowledged what they had taken away from the talk. Lexi, a freshman basketball player at Immaculata, said she felt that lack of fulfillment often. “When I have a great game, it’s the highest of highs, but it lasts two days and then you forget it,” she said, continuing, “but when I have my worst game, the pain in my chest lasts for a month and it destroys my confidence.”

At a neighboring table, Pawel, Ephraem and Ruben agreed they were moved by Johnson’s comments. “It’s hard to explain,” Pawel said. “It moved me. We do a lot of stuff that we think will make us happy but it doesn’t lead to fulfillment.”

If the speaker, the games, the opportunity for the Sacrament of Reconciliation, Adoration and Mass offered by Fathers Jay Alquiros and Tim Eck had an impact, it was just what Donofrio, new to

encourages restless hearts to rest in God Diocesan Youth Day

the youth and youth ministers.

Pictured in middle photo, youth ministers Sarah Hollcraft (pictured center) and Erik Schenck were running a “hot potato” game with the youth to encourage talking and connection.

Pictured in bottom photo, Bishop Checchio joins, from left, Father Jay Alquiros, director of Catholic Identity at Immaculata High School; Jay Donofrio, director, Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry; Father Timonthy Eck, director, Office of Divine Worship, and Jason Cordova, administrative assistant, Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry.

—Hal Brown photos

planned the day were “hoping God pours his graces on every heart, and awakens the heart of everyone present,” he said. That hope was echoed by parish youth ministry leaders who had accompanied their groups to the event. Deacon Jose Diaz of Our Lady of Fatima Parish in Perth Amboy, who runs the youth ministry there with his wife, Alitza, welcome up to 40 teens every week to their group meetings. At the diocesan day, Deacon Diaz said, “We are

hoping their hearts are set on fire, that they

As the day drew to a close, Bishop James F. Checchio stopped by. He got a positive response to his question, “Did you have a good experience?” But he got an even stronger response when he asked, “Did you meet Christ?” He noted that Pope Francis had declared this year as a Jubilee of Hope. “Pope Francis thinks we need more hope in our world –do you think he’s right?” he asked. The answer was an enthusiastic “YES!”

When I meet people throughout our Diocese who read my columns, they often ask if I would write on such and such a topic. One common request is to expound on a theme I had previously written about on forgiveness and the Lord’s Prayer.

Consider the number of times you have you prayed the words of the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” Do you really expect God to forgive you in the identical way that you forgive others? Is that sufficient? Is the forgiveness you offer others something less than what you expect from God or is it as perfect as what you expect from God? Is there something less than perfect about your forgiveness toward others? If so, you are not ready to receive God’s “perfect” forgiveness.

It should certainly be our hope that our forgiveness toward others be perfect. Hopefully, it is identical to the forgiveness offered to us by God. Hopefully, we can pray the words and mean them: “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.” However, it is likely the case that our forgiveness is not so perfect.

The main points I wish to share pertaining to the petition of the Lord’s Prayer: “Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us,” are from the Catechism (CCC 2840). It states that the gift of God’s “outpouring of mercy cannot penetrate our hearts as long as we have not forgiven those who have trespassed against us.”

able” to forgive or refuse to forgive. Per haps you are among them. Some people are “unable” to forgive or refuse to forgive for all the wrong reasons. Some cannot reconcile the deep hurt or betrayal they’ve experienced. Others assume that forgiveness (as in “forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us”) implies that we must resume former friendships that went sour or otherwise spend time with the one who “trespassed against us.” None of this is asked of us in the Lord’s Prayer. In fact, we don’t even

have “to like” the person we are called to forgive, certainly not their negative or sinful behavior. In any case, we are not called to like such people, but to love them – to love the person, not their sin or behavior or disposition or immoral deeds; to love the human being made in the image and likeness of God.

The Catechism advises: “We cannot love the God we cannot see if we do not love the brother or sister we do see.” Additionally, “in refusing to forgive our brothers and sisters, our hearts are closed and their hardness makes them impervious to the Father's merciful love; but in confessing our sins, our hearts are opened to His grace.”

As a priest, I have always found it astonishing that so many people who daily invoke this phrase from the Lord’s Prayer continue to struggle with forgiving others. The condition placed in this prayer by Our Lord, Jesus, is that our trespasses are forgiven by our Heavenly Father ONLY IF we

“Forgive us our trespasses as we forgive those who trespass against us.”

forgive those who “trespass against us.”

In other words, God’s forgiveness is conditional! It is predicated on whether we are willing to forgive other human beings who have wronged us!

Paramount in forgiveness is our openness to God’s grace. Left to ourselves, we can do little or nothing. When we place ourselves into God’s hands, all things are possible. Recall the words from Saint Matthew’s Gospel: “Jesus looked at them and said, ‘For human beings this is impossible, but for God all things are possible’” (Matthew 19:26). All is possible when we remain in God’s grace.

What are the ordinary ways to receive God’s abundant grace? Most especially in the sacraments. We receive the forgiveness of our sins first and foremost through the Sacrament of Baptism. When we avail ourselves of God’s grace in the Sacrament of Penance or Holy Confession, we renew our baptismal promises and are positioned back on the path that leads to God. Each time we are properly disposed (not in mortal sin) to receive Our Lord Jesus in the Eucharist (Holy Communion), we are nourished and strengthened by God’s grace to forgive as God forgives and to love as He loves.

Throughout the New Testament, we see Jesus doing what a teacher does – repeating His teaching! He tells us in the Gospels: “A new Commandment I give to you, that you love one another; even as I have loved you, that you also love one another” (John 13:34); and “Be perfect, as your heavenly Father is perfect” (Matthew 5:48); and “Be merciful, even as your Father is merciful” (Luke 6:36).

All of this points to Jesus’ teaching on forgiveness. The Catechism calls it “the love that loves to the end” (CCC 2843). Everything happens in the heart. We are to love from the depths of our hearts. The Catechism then explains: “It is not in our power not to feel or to forget an offense; but the heart that offers itself to the Holy Spirit turns injury into compassion and purifies the memory in transforming the hurt into intercession” (CCC 2843). This also extends (especially in our prayers) “to the forgiveness of enemies” (CCC 2844). The Catechism further explains: “There is no limit or measure to this essentially divine forgiveness” (CCC 2845). In fact, the Catechism continues, “The communion of the Holy Trinity is the source and criterion of truth [and forgiveness] in every relationship. It is lived out in prayer, above all in the Eucharist” (CCC 2845).

The next time someone hurts you or commits an offense against you, dig deep and find a way to forgive their offense, especially before you raise your mind and heart in praying the Lord’s Prayer!

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

—Jon Tyson photo/Unsplash

—CNS photo/Justin McLellan

Prayer for the Canonization of Blessed Carlo Acutis

Oh God, Our Father, thank you for giving us Carlo, a life example for the young and a message of love for everyone. You made him become enamoured with Your Son Jesus, making of the Eucharist his “Highway to Heaven.” You gave him Mary, as a most loving Mother, and, with the Rosary, you made him a poet of her tenderness. Receive his prayer for us. Above all, gaze upon the poor, whom he loved and helped. Grant for me too, by his intercession, the grace that I need ... And make our joy fulfilled, placing Carlo among the Saints of your Church, so that his smile may shine again for us in the glory of your name.

Amen

Pater, Ave, Gloria

(“Our Father”, “Hail Mary”, “Glory be to God”)

The tomb of Blessed Carlo Acutis is seen in the Church of St. Mary Major in Assisi, Italy, April 1, 2025. Blessed Carlo’s April 27 canonization has been postponed due to Pope Francis’ death.

Families in Africa Celebrate the Gift of Clean Water — But More Help Is Needed

Catholics in the U.S. are changing the world — and the many families being helped by them are celebrating that blessing.

“We were on the ground thanking God when we heard that we would be receiving a freshwater well,” said Agnes, a struggling mother living in an impoverished community in Malawi’s Diocese of Karonga. “We couldn’t believe it was coming during our lifetime. What a blessing!”

Regina from Kenya agreed, saying, “This water has transformed the community. All of us. It has empowered us. We can have veggies and a garden to support ourselves, thanks to this new well.”

Veronica from Zambia expressed her joy in prayer.

“God Almighty Father, we thank you for the donors who have made it possible to have clean water,” she said. “We also want to ask that you bless them with more days so that they continue helping people like us. We ask the Holy Spirit to be with them always and bless them abundantly.”

Michele Sagarino, president of Cross Catholic Outreach, said these expressions of relief, happiness and gratitude testify to the incredible work Catholic missions are accomplishing overseas — thanks to the support they receive from American Catholics.

“At Cross Catholic Outreach, we do everything we can to involve parishioners in the exciting work our Church is accomplishing across five continents. Wherever people are hurting, the Church is there,” Sagarino said. “Catholic ministries are doing amazing things all over the world. More people need to know about those outreaches and how they are transforming lives and communities. Once they understand the

importance of the Church’s international ministries, they’re excited to get involved. American Catholics are compassionate and generous people. They’re eager to help. They just want to know that their contributions will have a specific and significant impact when they give.”

One of the current projects American Catholics have been asked to support will address water scarcity in several African nations.

“You’ve heard how important access to safe water has been to Agnes, Regina and Veronica. They benefited from our earlier water projects,” Sagarino said. “Our focus now is on providing those same blessings to other communities that are still in need, including remote areas in Ghana, Ethiopia, Kenya, Malawi and Zambia.”

As with virtually all of Cross Catholic Outreach’s efforts, the water projects it will be undertaking in Africa will be implemented by its network of in-country partners — a group of bishops, priests, religious sisters and Catholic lay leaders already in place and working among the poor.

“These dedicated Catholic leaders have always had a deep desire to serve the families in their dioceses, but they’ve lacked the funding to achieve their goals,” Sagarino said. “But when U.S. Catholics unite, we can provide them with the

grants and resources they need. In this case, that will involve funding the drilling of wells to supply safe, clean water in areas where families have had to rely on streams, ponds or other contaminated sources to quench their thirst.”

This tainted water often makes people sick and can create even greater medical issues for the elderly, children and pregnant moms. In communities where Cross Catholic Outreach has had professional wells installed, these problems are solved. The impact this has on health is obvious, but providing clean water also has other benefits, according to Sagarino. Because these wells reduce illnesses, children attend school more consistently and their focus on classwork

How To Help

improves. Men and women who once lost productive hours to waterborne diseases can reclaim that time for work, attending Mass and taking part in other important spiritual or family activities.

“For all of these reasons and more, I encourage U.S. Catholics to become involved in our current relief work in Africa,” Sagarino said. “There’s so much we can do as a Church if we work together. Supplying safe water is a critical first step in transforming lives and communities. Once clean water flows, we can do even more to bless these precious families. People often say they want their lives to make a difference. They want to change the world. This is their opportunity to do exactly that.”

To fund Cross Catholic Outreach’s effort to help the poor worldwide, use the postage-paid brochure inserted in this newspaper or mail your gift to Cross Catholic Outreach, Dept. AC05071, PO Box 97168, Washington, DC 20090-7168. The brochure also includes instructions on becoming a Mission Partner and making a regular monthly donation to this cause.

If you identify an aid project, 100% of the donation will be restricted to use for that specific project. However, if more is raised for the project than is needed, funds will be redirected to other urgent needs in the ministry.

Veronica (shown at left) is one of the many women who have seen their family’s health improve because of the new water systems Cross Catholic Outreach has installed in rural communities. The simple truth is this: Safe water saves lives.

Professional

development day allows educators to share best practices,

experiences

elementary schools, Immaculata High School and St. Thomas Aquinas High School came together at seven locations on March 28 to share best practices and experiences during a diocesan profes sional development day.

Featuring content developed by teachers and administrators for teachers and administrators, the day’s program of fered formal workshops and presentations as well as opportunities for networking and idea-sharing among colleagues.

Teachers were grouped at sites by grade level and, in some cases, subject matter. Laura Condo, kindergarten teacher at St. Ann Classical Academy in Raritan who attended the professional develop ment day at St. Helena School in Edison, noted a workshop entitled “Best Practices in Pre-K and K” presented by Tara Per doni from Saint Bartholomew School. Condo said, “As an experienced teacher, I found this workshop particularly bene ficial. It provided me with new behavioral strategies and practical tips for improving classroom management. Sharing experiences and learning from one another was both enlightening and inspiring.”

Superintendent of Schools Dr. Joseph Diskin explained that the day was centered around a belief that some of the most impactful learning happens when educators share their knowledge and experience with one another. “This peer-led model not only highlights the talent and expertise within our diocesan community but also fosters a spirit of collaboration and professional growth,” Diskin said. Grouping teachers by grade level or subject matter allowed for focused time to exchange ideas, discuss challenges and develop new strategies together, he continued.

Elementary school workshops and presentations spanned a wide range of topics, from handwriting and literacy skills, to reaching struggling readers, STEM activities and “keeping a prayer in your pocket.”

Jaclyn Kaminski, a third grade teacher at Immaculate Conception School in Somerville, saw that benefit. “I appreciat-

1, Diocesan administrators, join teachers and school administrators for the diocesan Professional Day held in St. Augustine of Canterbury School, Kendall Park, one of seven professional day locations. —Mark Lee photo 2, Kate Severson, left, and Carolyn Pepperman from Immaculate Conception School, Annandale, give a presentation in Immaculate Conception School, Annandale. —Ed Koskey photo 3, Mike Kowalczyk of St. Thomas Aquinas High School offered his peers a primer on project-based learning as a student-centered instructional approach. —Valentina Agostino, IHS student photo 4, Teachers from St. Thomas Aquinas and Immaculata High Schools learn from their peers at the IHS location. —Valentina Agostino, IHS student photo 5, Teachers join in for a discussion group in Immaculate Conception School, Annandale. —Ed Koskey photo

ed the practical tips and strategies shared for improving classroom behavior and maintaining a positive learning environment,” she said. “The session on discipline

management offered new approaches to handling challenging situations while fostering a more proactive and supportive classroom atmosphere.” Beyond sharing

Mass at Church of the Immaculate Conception in Somerville before heading up the street to Immaculata High School. Before Mass, Mark Fiore, associate principal at St. Thomas Aquinas High School in Edison, called the day “long overdue,” and looked forward to “sharing the great work both high schools do.”

In his homily, Monsignor Joseph Celano, pastor and director of schools, reflected on the Gospel of St. Matthew, noting that Jesus’ response to a question from a scribe deeply schooled in his faith about the greatest commandment – to love God with all one’s heart, soul and mind, and to love one’s neighbor as oneself –demonstrated that “sometimes we just need to hear what we already know.” He continued, “Love of God and neighbor is borne out of an encounter with the Living God who loves us. We love because we have first been loved.” Our schools are institutions rooted in God’s love – “schools of discipleship where hearts are touched and lives are changed through encounters with Jesus Christ,” he said.

Kristin Boczany, vice principal for academic affairs at Immaculata and organizer of the high school sessions, thanked those who “answered the call to be presenters.” She noted that while all were accustomed to presenting material in front of groups of students, “in front of your peers, it’s something entirely different.”

High school content covered topics like “Gamifying Your Class,” “Illuminating Faith,” “Understanding Hatred through the Atrocities of the Holocaust,” and “The Power of Rubrics,” among many others. In the description of a session on technology and social media, attendees were invited to come prepared with stories and tech tools that both work or haven’t worked, to share, and to laugh.

There was a lot of that throughout the day and throughout the schools, suggesting that Superintendent Diskin’s goal for the day, “for teachers to leave the day energized, supported and equipped with practical tools and insights they can apply in their classrooms,” had been achieved.

The Lord always goes in search of the lost, Pope says

By Cindy Wooden, Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Even when a person seems totally lost and unable to find a way back to God, the Lord is already looking for him or her, said the text for Pope Francis' weekly general audience.

"Let us nurture our desire to see Jesus, and above all let us allow ourselves to be found by the mercy of God, who always comes in search of us, in whatever situation we may be lost," said the text

prepared for April 2.

While Pope Francis was not holding audiences since he was still recovering from double pneumonia and multiple infections, the Vatican has been publishing the texts prepared for his general audiences each Wednesday.

During the Holy Year 2025, the Pope's audiences have focused on "Jesus Christ our hope." The text for April 2 was the third in a series looking at Gospel stories of Jesus' encounter with different

people and how meeting him changed their lives.

After looking at Nicodemus and then the Samaritan woman at the well, the early April text focused on the story of Zacchaeus from Luke 19:1-10.

Pope Francis, who often talks about how God is waiting for people to turn back to him, wrote that the Zacchaeus story "has a special place in my spiritual journey."

Zacchaeus was the chief tax collector and so probably reviled by his neigh-

Peace and care for creation are linked, dicastery says

By Carol Glatz, Catholic News Service

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – "Seeds of Peace and Hope" is the theme for the World Day of Prayer for Creation, which will be celebrated Sept. 1.

The Dicastery for Promoting Integral Human Development announced the theme chosen by Pope Francis April 7. The metaphor of the seed, it added, "indicates the need for long-term commitment."

The day and its related Season of Creation for 2025 will be taking place during the Holy Year and the 10th anniversary of the Pope's encyclical, "Laudato Si', on Care for Our Common Home."

A papal message for the day of prayer usually is released in May or June.

The World Day of Prayer for Creation marks the start of the ecumenical Season of Creation, which concludes Oct. 4, the feast day of St. Francis of Assisi, patron saint of ecology.

The theme of the season for 2025, the

dicastery said, is "Peace with creation," based on verses from the Book of Isaiah's description of "The Kingdom of Justice" (32:14-18), which speaks of the peace and prosperity that comes under just rulers.

"Peace and care for creation share a close link," the dicastery said. And "there is also a strong connection between war and degradation of our planet, which is seen in the waste of resources through destruction and armaments."

The dicastery invited Christians to pray for the right conditions to be created for peace, that is, "a lasting, shared peace that gives rise to hope."

bors. The Gospel also says Zacchaeus was wealthy, "suggesting that he has grown rich on the backs of others, abusing his position," the Pope's text said.

Zacchaeus hears that Jesus is coming to Jericho, and he wants to see him, but he is too short to see over the crowd.

Something similar can happen to everyone, the Pope said. "It is our reality: we have limitations that we have to deal with."

To find a way around those limitations, he said, "you need to be courageous and unashamed; you need a little of the simplicity of children and not to worry about your own image. Zacchaeus, like a child, climbs a tree."

He might have thought he could see Jesus without being seen, the Pope said, but the Lord notices him.

Zacchaeus – and the people in the crowd – probably expected Jesus to rebuke him for being a tax collector, but Jesus asks him to climb down and tells him that he wants to go to his house.

The Gospel story shows that "God does not pass by without looking for those who are lost," the Pope said.

And "Luke highlights the joy in Zacchaeus' heart," the text said. "It is the joy of one who feels that he has been seen, acknowledged and above all forgiven."

"Jesus' gaze is not one of reproach, but of mercy," the Pope continued. "It is that mercy we sometimes struggle to accept, especially when God forgives those who, in our opinion, do not deserve it."

After he is forgiven by Jesus, Zacchaeus vows to return four times the amount of money he has extorted from anyone, the Gospel says.

"It is not a price to be paid, because God's forgiveness is free," the Pope said, "but rather the desire to imitate the one by whom he felt loved."

—Illustration by Ardian Prano/Unsplash

The theme for Season of Creation 2025: Peace with Creation

The Biblical text for this year is Isaiah 32:14-18. The prophet Isaiah pictured the desolated Creation without peace because of the lack of justice and the broken relationship between God and humankind. This description of devastated cities and wastelands eloquently stresses the fact that human destructive behaviors have a negative impact on the Earth.

The hope: Creation will find peace when justice is restored.

There is still hope and the expectation for a peaceful Earth.

To hope in a biblical context does not mean to stand still and quiet, but to act, pray, change, and reconcile with Creation and the Creator in unity, metanoia (repentance), and solidarity.

The Symbol for Season of Creation 2025: Garden of Peace

The symbol is characterized by a dove carrying an olive branch bringing life to the Garden of Peace.

In the Biblical story of the flood, the dove plays the role of the blessed messenger: The dove sent out by Noah returns to the ark with a fresh olive branch in its beak, signaling that the flood is receding.

As the flood story begins with a situation where “the earth is filled with violence” (Genesis 6:13), the return of the dove with the olive branch came to be known as a sign of new peace.

This is the logo for the theme of the ecumenical Season of Creation, which begins Sept. 1. —CNS photo/Courtesy of Seasonofcreation.org

Homeschool Ministry church tours shed light on church architecture

By Father Gilbert Starcher Special Contributor

On March 19, The Solemnity of St. Joseph, the Husband of Mary, families of the Diocese’s newly formed Homeschool Ministry gathered in celebration of the patron saint of the Universal Church. The plan for the day included prayers to St. Joseph and a field trip to just four of the churches in our Diocese, to learn something about the special features of church architecture.

Homeschoolers were invited to begin the day with prayers at St. Joseph Church, North Plainfield, and to appreciate the nuances of the Romanesque architecture that founding parishioners chose for their new church in 1910. Later they went to visit St. John the Evangelist Church, Dunellen, for a very different experience of a church built in the style of the Gothic Revival, complete with pointed arches and a rose window.

St. Luke Parish, North Plainfield, provided a sense of modern architectural tastes and the mid-century fascination with what is known as the Prairie School. The field trip concluded with a look at the

style of Georgian Revival, studying the architecture of St. James Church, Basking Ridge. Msgr. Sylvester J. Cronin, pastor, was on hand to welcome the group and give a presentation on both Church art and architecture. Homeschoolers especially enjoyed his engaging explanations and prayers to conclude an action-packed morning.

Looking ahead to future events, Moms of Homeschooling families are invited to a retreat crafted just for them. The retreat will feature a talk by Jenny Bales, veteran Catholic Homeschooling Mom and founder of “Heart of a Mother,” a Catholic homeschool consulting company and will include Mass, breakfast, and time for prayer and fellowship.

It will be held, Saturday, June 14, 9 a.m.-2:30 p.m. in the St. John Neumann Center, 146 Metlars Lane, Piscataway.

The theme for the retreat is “He Restores My Soul / Psalm 23.” For questions and to register contact Jill Kerekes, director, Office of Discipleship Formation for Children at jkerekes@diometuchen.org.

Father Starcher serves as diocesan coordinator for Homeschool Ministry.

At daylong retreat, St. Luke parishioners consider Jubilee theme of hope

By Robert Christie, Correspondent

Following the lead of Pope Francis, who made hope the theme of this Jubilee Year, more than three dozen parishioners of St. Luke Parish, North Plainfield, spent a retreat day centered on the theme, “Hope: Facing the Transitions of Life.”

The parish Spirituality Committee, chaired by Bettina Willis, organized the Feb. 22 retreat, which featured Msgr. John Fell, diocesan episcopal vicar for clergy and consecrated life, as keynote speaker.

Msgr. Fell shared, “We are all flawed sinners but our faith, rising out of the scriptures and the Church’s tradition, brings us hope – not simply in something but in Some One – God revealed in his Divine Son, our Lord Jesus Christ. Hope

is a theological virtue poured into the individual as a divine grace. It is also manifest as a human phenomenon understood as a belief that our future will be better than our present and that we have the possibility of making it so.”

Both parts of this understanding are significant, stressed Msgr. Fell. “If we speak only of the belief that the future will be better, this is simply optimism, a sunny disposition. The driving force behind this optimism must be the personal conviction that the individual has the possibility of effectively bringing about this better future – through faith-inspired action, personal behavior, working toward an imagined better reality, and the like,” he said.

Msgr. Fell outlined steps along this

Parishioners spend time in table discussions, left, on a variety of topics relevant to a keynote presentation by Msgr. John N. Fell, right, diocesan episcopal vicar for clergy and consecrated life, which focused on “Hope: Facing the Transitions of Life.” The retreat was held in St. Luke Parish, North Plainfield, Feb. 22. —Hal Brown photos

path including “prayer, goal setting, engaging in concrete strategies to achieve the goals, and then remaining resilient to living out those strategies. This all becomes doable when the person keeps his or her sight fixed on the Lord Jesus, the Source and Goal of all our hopes, the God who mercifully comes through for humanity time and time again.”

The Monsignor’s keynote was followed by a question-and-answer session touching on a variety of topics, including the four sites to which a Jubilee pilgrimage can be made, with pilgrims receiving a plenary indulgence.

Earlier, Father Mauricio TaberaVasquez, St. Luke pastor, opened the retreat with a blessing and a recitation of the Hail Mary.

Jeff Lawler, a member of the parish’s Gospel Reflections group, provided the historical background to the Jubilee, which has its roots in the Old Testament celebration held every 50 years. In the year 1300, Pope Boniface VIII proclaimed the first ordinary jubilee for the Church and set it for every 100 years. Over time, the interval was shortened to 50 years and then to its current 25.

Addressing the Jubilee theme of “Pilgrims of Hope,” Lawler said, “Hope is trust extended into the future, and it is relational and personal. Hope is a confident expectation that I will attain something difficult that I desire.”

He noted that a tourist dabbles here and there, never deeply immersed, but a pilgrim takes a journey to a sacred destination.

“This is not our home,” he said. “Life is temporary, heaven is eternal. We’re on a pilgrimage to our permanent home, in union with the God who created and loves us. We place our trust in Jesus’ promises and rely upon the Holy Spirit to help us throughout the journey.”

A combined lunch and breakout session had attendees at various tables discuss topics, then report to the full body. All answered the question, “How has hope helped you face a particular transition in your life?” Individual tables then were assigned to discuss: forgiveness; the power of hope; prayer; trust; faith; encouragement, and expectation.

The day concluded with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament and Benediction in the parish church.

nificance of the Paschal Candle in Catholic liturgy, art and tradition to a group of

Catechumens sign Book of Elect

Each spring, The Catholic Spirit publishes the names of the catechumens who, at the conclusion of the Rite of Election, sign the Book of the Elect which is used to record the names of those who desire to enter fully into the life of the Church through the sacraments of Baptism, Confirmation, and the Eucharist at the Easter Vigil.

In addition to the catechumens whose names were published in the March issue, The Catholic Spirit wishes to congratulate the following catechumens (and their sponsors) who were welcomed into the Catholic Church this Easter.

St. John Vianney, Colonia

Mabellyn Navarro

St. Joseph, Carteret

For our complete coverage of this year’s Rite of Election, please see pages 4-5 of St. Magdalen de Pazzi, Flemington Ali Hernandez Martinez

“God’s tenderness leads us to understand that love is the meaning of life...

Organ donation is a testimony of love for our neighbor.”

— Pope Francis

Register to save lives as an organ and tissue donor at NJSN.org.

St. Philip and St. James, Phillipsburg

Goal Met!

The Knights of Columbus Council 6571 and Saint John Vianney Church, Colonia, would like to thank all who donated blood in the Vitalant Bloodmobile March 30. The goal of 25 pints of blood, which saves about 75 lives, was met. Pictured from left are Louis Leiggi, KOC 6571 local blood drive coordinator, Frank DeCiccio and James Carr.

—Courtesy photo

Celebrating Asian Pacific Islander month and the diverse cultures in the Diocese of Metuchen

May 10, 2025, 1 – 4 p.m.

Our Lady of Czestochowa Hall 908 Hamilton Boulevard, South Plainfield, NJ 77080

For more information, contact Sr. Miriam Perez at mperez@diometuchen.org

JUBILEE YEAR • DIOCESE OF METUCHEN

Pilgrims of hope:

The light of Christian hope might illumine every man and woman, as a message of God’s love addressed to all”.

By David Karas, Correspondent

Celebrating 150 years of Catholic education in Phillipsburg

While the institution has gone by different names and even served different grade levels and age groups over the years, Warren County’s only Catholic school has been steadfast in its mission to educate and enrich young people.

And as Saints Philip and James School – as it is now known – marks its 150th anniversary this year, school and parish leaders, students and parents both past and present have cause to celebrate.

“We have been a fixture in our community, and we hope to continue this tradition for many more years to come,” said principal Sara Siano. “We have such a rich history, that I think it is hard to talk about Phillipsburg without mentioning our Catholic School.”

The school traces its origins to the late 1800s, with the school’s first cornerstone laid in 1875. The institution, earlier known as Saint Philip and St. James (SPSJ), would go on to experience changes to meet various enrollment needs in the community throughout its history – including an expansion as Phillipsburg Catholic High School and later All Saints Regional School. In 1999, after the closure of the high school, it was renamed as Saints Philip and James.

“Whether it was SPSJ, PCHS, All Saints, and currently SSPJ, it doesn’t

matter what the name of the school was over these past 150 years, our legacy is a collage of countless memories, achievements, and milestones,” said Margie Markus, who attended the school herself and has seen her children and grandchildren follow in her footsteps. “This intricate mosaic not only reflects the pride of students, faculty, and alumni but also serves as a beacon for future generations.”

Markus, who is also head of the school’s alumni committee, has been working in preparation for this year’s milestone anniversary to collect details about the school’s history, combing through yearbooks and examining historical memorabilia. While a lot has changed in K-12 education in the past century and a half, she noted, the core of the school’s work has remained the same.

“Saints Philip and James School seeks to achieve excellence in education and to instill the morality and spirituality that provide the basis for becoming a responsible citizen and productive member of society,” she said. “That was the belief of those early educators back in 1875 and even though education has come a long way in the past 150 years, these beliefs still hold true today, allowing us to remain steadfast to our strong foundation in the Catholic faith.”

In honor of its 150th anniversary, the school will organize an event for school

families and alumni in May, on the feast of Saints Philip and James, and will be planning a larger event later in the year.

Father John Barbella formerly served as pastor of the school’s parish, and is now pastor of St. John Vianney, Colonia. Reflecting on the strong legacy of the school, he noted the dedication of religious sisters and brothers who taught at the institution over the years – including the Sisters of Charity, the Sisters of Mercy, the Sisters of the Sacred Heart, the Sisters of Jesus Our Hope, and the Brothers of the Sacred Heart.

“Few schools that I know of have ever had such a varied group of religious communities serving over the years – each of which brought their unique charism to it,” he said. “The same is true of the many, many, dedicated lay teachers over the years – who made untold sacrifices to teach in Catholic School –giving a powerful witness to the students. This is some of what makes this school so special.”

He noted that the school is responsible for promoting many vocations to the priesthood and religious life, mentioning in particular the late Msgr. Terrence Lawler, as well as Father Patrick Boyle, who still assists with Masses at the parish.

For Father Barbella, the 150-year anniversary says a lot about the school’s impact.

Archived black and white photos, clockwise: Drawing of the original school 1875; gym class 1967; Father Joseph Kosak who built the new school in 1961; May Crowning 1936; current color photos courtesy of SPSJ School.

—Courtesy photos

“It provided people who wanted to educate their children in an atmosphere permeated with the Catholic Faith an opportunity to do that, and they took advantage of that opportunity,” he said. “No Catholic school survives 150 years unless people are willing to support it for all that time.”

Father Antony Arockiadoss, the current pastor of Saints Philip and James Parish, expressed his gratitude to all the clergy, school leaders, parents, parishioners, volunteers and donors who have helped the school to thrive for so many years.

“This hardworking community built one of the best churches of its time – calling it ‘The Cathedral of the West’ – and pioneered in education that built community and faith. They believed it and continue to spread that message,” he said, “Still (today), our school parents love to send their children here. They love the school, staff, and the prayerful atmosphere we provide.”

By Christina Leslie Contributing Editor

Catholic lawman declares ‘miracles are all around’

Whether confronted by a suspected drug dealer, a suicidal man on a roof, or his own health challenges, South Brunswick Police Deputy Chief James Ryan responded to the crises with faith. He asserted, “Prayers work.

We need

to listen

to God’s word, and we need to have

faith as our bedrock.”

The law enforcement professional and member of the Catholic Charities Solidarity Team enthralled his audience with stories from his more than 30 years of public service during two presentations at St. Cecilia Parish, Monmouth Junction, March 11 and 12. With each story he retold, Ryan shared how his faith served as guide, for, he explained, “Miracles happen every day all around us.”

Ryan is a graduate of the FBI National Academy, the N.J. State Association of Chiefs of Police Command and Leadership; served as departmental public information officer; created the N.J. Cop Shot reward program and is the recipient of the N.J. State PBA Outstanding Officer Award. He earned a bachelor’s degree in political science and government from Kean University and a master’s degree in criminal justice and police science from New Jersey City University, and is an adjunct professor at Middlesex County College. He has been a guest lecturer at Fordham and Seton Hall Law Schools, and at the Rutgers University School of Communication.

Ryan’s faith-based endeavors include serving as trustee for Catholic Charities Diocese of Metuchen Board; a disaster recovery coordinator for the CCDOM Superstorm Sandy response, and as a member of their Solidarity Team. Though faith-filled and trusting in God’s providence, he was initially hesitant to

share examples of the Lord’s loving care.

“God talks to each and every one of us every day, but, like Jonah, I thought, ‘who would listen to me? I’m just Jim from Jersey,” Ryan recalled. “I kept putting it off.” This past November, the married father of four suffered a heart attack while a patient in the ICU of a Philadelphia hospital.

During his recovery, Ryan said, “people were praying for me and those prayers were working.” The power of prayer convinced him to share incidents

South Brunswick Police Deputy Chief James Ryan —Tiffany Workman photo

from his past as examples of God’s love and presence in time of need. “The Lord was repeatedly telling me to tell these stories,” he said. “Our time is limited, is not guaranteed, and I have to move forward. I have to tell these stories.”

An incident from his early years as a police officer saw him encountering a car that had left the road and been mangled in the trees. The driver, a young man named Tom, was trapped in the vehicle when Ryan arrived first on the scene.

“Tom asked me to tell his wife that

Mental health topic of Choices Matter Conference

HOPE IN THE TIME OF SORROW

“If you don’t have mental illness, you know and love someone who does,” stated Deacon Edward Shoener of St. Peter’s Cathedral in the Diocese of Scranton. He should know; in August, 2016, his daughter, Katie, committed suicide. Eager to put to rest the common misconceptions about suicide, including the stance of the Catholic Church, the grieving father penned her obituary which went viral.

Deacon Shoener showed the audience pictures and films of his beloved daughter who had long struggled with bipolar disorder. “We had no experience,

and it took us a long time to understand,” he recalled. “It doesn’t respect class, it doesn’t respect culture or race. It doesn’t mean you are a bad Catholic.”

In response to his grief and the lack of faith-based information, the deacon teamed up with Bishop John Dolan of Phoenix to write two books: “Responding to Suicide: A Pastoral Handbook for Catholic Leaders,” and “When a Loved One Dies by Suicide.” Deacon Shoener is a founding member of the Association of Catholic Mental Health Ministers (catholicmhm.org) and the Catholic Institute of Mental Health Ministry at the University of San Diego. He serves on the Council on Mental Illness of the National Catholic Partnership on Disability and on

he loved her,” Ryan said. “I told him to do that.” The young man made it through surgery and recovered, leaving the hospital 10 days later. Ryan admitted, “In the moment of truth, my faith collapsed, but prayers work.”

God’s lesson to Ryan about the importance of humility manifested itself during a confrontation at a suspected drug house. After a six-week investigation, the house seemingly was empty of illegal activity and, Ryan confessed, “My ego was really big.” But during a follow-up visit, the lawman found out he was wrong.

“I went to the door and there was a guy with the biggest gun I had ever seen who wouldn’t put it down. I thought, ‘God, where are you? How am I here?’” Ryan said. The gunman finally followed the police’s demand to lower his weapon; the police later learned the man was deaf and thought he was defending his neighbor from intruders.

“In that moment, in those times, everything could have been different,” Ryan said. “God was saying, ‘I am here all the time. Keep praying, keep humble.’”

During his time as a crisis negotiator, Ryan was called to the scene of a man in a tree two stories from the ground threatening to jump. A bucket truck arrived at the scene, and Ryan was lifted to speak with the distraught man.

“I said, ‘Holy Spirit, give me the words to say,” Ryan recalled. “I thought of the time when Simon Peter was fishing all night and caught nothing, but Christ said to drop his net somewhere else. I asked the man if he wanted to get in the bucket truck with me and go down to discuss things; he said ‘Okay’ and got in. God has a plan and we have to trust him.”

Ryan concluded with the desire that his audience’s Lenten journey strengthen faith and prayers do work. “Faith is a gift God gave us. This world is crazy, but faith in Jesus has not changed,” he said. “I hope by sharing the miracles I have seen that you see them on a daily basis.”

Continued from page 5

the Board of Pathways to Promise, an interfaith cooperative that facilitates the faith community’s work in reaching out to those with mental illnesses and their families.

“One of the ways I coped with my grief is to read as much as I could about suicide, but there were no authoritative books from the Catholic Church.” he said. “We need to integrate mental health care into the Church, for them to open its doors and say, ‘we get it.’ Some day, when a person has a mental health prob lem, the first thing they need to think of is going to the Church.”

Deacon Shoener continued, “We believe this is a prolife issue, and, all too often, people were not supported.” Advocating parishes create such a ministry for

their members, he said, “We can offer spiritual and social support. It can be a simple ministry and you do not need to turn min-

Diocesan and outside pro-life groups provided information to those attending the conference. —Hal Brown photo

Reproaches summon us to respond to Passion of Christ TIME – AND TIME AGAIN

During the Veneration of the Cross on Good Friday, which follows the Intercessions and Collection, the Choirs traditionally sing the Reproaches. Some parishes, however, have replaced the Reproaches with another hymn because they felt that these were anti-Semitic. Truth be told, the early history of our Church was marked by anti-Semitism because the Christians believed that the Jews were responsible for Jesus’ Passion and Death. It was only during the Second Vatican Council in the 1960’s, that the notion of the Jews’ being “Christ-killers” was rescinded. The Jewish authorities demanded his death, some of the crowd outside the Pretorium demanded his death, the Roman soldiers carried out his Crucifixion. But all of us, humans, are culpable of putting Jesus to death.

Do you think that we have problems in the Church today? Back in the first two centuries, there was tension between the Aramaic speaking Jewish Christians from Judea, the Greek speaking Jewish-Christians from the “diaspora” of Asia Minor (present day Turkey) and the pagan or Gentile converts to Christianity. Thus, we find a Christendom marked by inner-hostility, animus, and bias and yes, even some anti-Semitism.

The Reproaches of the Passion, an ancient hymn of the early Church are a series of lamentations from the Old Testament about the ingratitude of the Jewish people, which leads up to the Passion of the Our Lord. They are twelve accusations which begin with a prophetic expression of grief, each of which is taken from Chapter 6 of the Prophet Micah.

The Church sings these during the Veneration of the Cross on Good Friday. Following the completion of the Passion, the gratitude of the Church turns to the Cross, that revolting instrument of torture which became the noble instrument of our Redemption. The Reproaches represent the striking contrast between the innocence of Our Lord and the ingratitude and guilt of the Jewish people. But we, my friends, are descendants of the Jews. Some might call us “Jews of the New Israel,” inasmuch as we are heirs of the new humanity of the Redeemed.

The Reproaches of the Passion paint our Lord questioning His people, reminding them of the benefits God

gave them, and asking them why they inflicted such anguish on Him. There are twelve Reproaches that are chanted in the same plain-song melody. When we hear the Reproaches, we should not just perceive these as past historical facts from the Old Testament evoked by the liturgy of the Church. Instead, we should apply Jesus’ lamentations to the present and to ourselves. Our piety should imagine Our Lord in each step of His Passion – from the Agony in the Garden, to the Scourging, from the Crowning with Thorns, to Carrying of the Cross, from the Crucifixion to his Death–with genuine remorse and sorrow. We should meditate on these moments as if Jesus were present before each of us, “Jews of the New Israel,” evoking a desire within us to ‘fess up, to own up to our sins, without trying to justify these or blame others for these. We should imagine Jesus asking each one of us those poignant questions which He addressed to the Chosen People.

It is common knowledge that Divine Providence gives special graces for each commemoration of the Church. During Holy Week, there are super-abundant graces that Christ mediates to us through these sacred liturgies, so that we might unite ourselves more intimately to Him. We should open our souls for those graces, in cadence with each vignette of the Passion, in particular, those moments when we can identify with Jesus’ pain personally.

The normal response to these meditations should be remorse for our sins, not a disturbed sorrow which leads to despair, such as that of Judas, but the peaceful repentance that converted Peter, a tranquil yet honest look within which elicits an apology to Jesus for our sins.

Good Friday is the day to reflect on the gifts which we have received, graces won for us at so dear a cost by Jesus, and our past ingratitude in response to these. “If we haven’t done so during Lent, should we not make reparation for the evil we have done today? Should we not shift our lives in another direction in order to unite ourselves personally to our Savior and live out the Way of the Lord Jesus?” Yes! We should ask for this transformation with confidence. Why? Because if a sinner like the good thief who, never expressed remorse until the hour of his death, was heard by Jesus who, in his feelings of forsakenness and physical pain, assured this criminal that he would be with our Lord that day in Paradise, just imagine what the same Jesus, our Glorified Savior, has in store for each of us.

Father Comandini serves as diocesan coordinator of the Office for Ongoing Faith Formation.

This will not be an original reflection. Greater minds than mine have pondered the mystery of time, and whatever conclusions they came to, I doubt if I would even understand them, much less be able to develop them to the enrichment of my readers. I am no philosopher or physicist elucidating the mysteries of our world. I am just an ordinary human being trying to get through the day!

The reason I am writing this now and not at some other time (there we are already! There is “time” and there are “some other times”! I am already out of my depths! Or is that mixing my metaphors?) Anyway, the reason I am writing this now is because time in Lent always seems to move at a different pace from the rest of the year. I would hazard a guess that other Catholics who take Lent seriously have made the same discovery. Lent is six and a half weeks long, and it dra-a-a-gs out interminably!

I noticed this when I was growing up, of course, but I noticed it much more acutely when I entered religious life. Lent in a monastery is serious business! There are quite a lot of practices that mark it off from the rest of the year and that keep reminding you that you are in the desert with Jesus! Maybe some other year I can discuss some of them. But I don’t want to get off my subject, which is time.

Time, during Lent, moves slowly. It seems like Easter will never come! Then, finally, you reach Easter, you celebrate the Resurrection, and you move into Paschaltide, the liturgical time after Lent. Lent lasts six and a half weeks, and Paschaltide lasts seven weeks. Lent drags on, while Paschaltide zips by and before we realize it, we’ve celebrated Pentecost, and we are back in Ordinary Time.

So, time moves differently in Lent

—Nathan-Dumlao

and in Eastertide. How does that happen? I think that the explanation is quite simple: time moves swiftly when you are enjoying yourself! Time drags when you are not, and the more you are uncomfortable, the slower it moves. Think of a dentist’s chair: unless he puts you under completely, you are aware of every tick of every second and of every whirr of the drill! A day at the beach, on the other hand, can pass by in a flash.

For me, this helps me to understand the idea of eternity. One description of eternity is a tall mountain, a mile high and a mile long and broad, made of solid granite. Once every hundred years, a small bird comes and sharpens its beak on the mountain. When the bird has worn down the mountain to nothing, eternity will be ended.

I have heard that description, and it doesn’t impress me. Even worse, it doesn’t make me long for the eternity of heaven. It sounds too much like time in a dentist’s chair.

For me, when I think of eternity, I remember a day when I was nine or ten, and a friend and I spent the day at the fair. This was the Monterey County Fair, which apparently still goes on, and which had everything a county fair should have: rides, food, expositions, craft booths, farm contests, you name it! You could wander the whole day just looking at all that was going on!

And this is what my friend and I did. We wandered, and we watched, and we were there the whole day, and the time passed unnoticed because we were so absorbed in what we were doing. I only remember a couple of images of all that I saw because I was too immersed in what was going on. I was enjoying myself so totally that I wasn’t thinking about me. And that, for me, is what eternity will be like in heaven. Jesus will say, “Enter, good and faithful servant into the joy of your master,” and we will enter into his joy and be engulfed in it.

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

Photo/Unsplash

Parish admins urged to imitate Mary as they serve the Church

By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor

During their anything-but-average days, they serve as counsellors, tour guides, supply officers, coffee makers, troubleshooters, photographers and bulletin preparers. Still others serve as translators, money collectors, laundry workers, dog walkers, chefs and horticulturalists. Their job responsibilities may be unique to their particular parish or school, but may accurately be summarized as “Director of First Impressions.”

The Diocese of Metuchen celebrated the invaluable assistance extended by its parish administrative assistants at a day of reflection, Mass and luncheon held in the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center April 1. The event, sponsored by the Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life, also provided an opportunity for parish administrative assistants to be introduced to diocesan staff, who each introduced themselves and gave a brief explanation of their roles and responsibilities.

In her presentation entitled “The Many Hats of Mary,” workshop leader Mary Morrell shared her own impressions of the dedicated and multi-talented employees she has encountered through the years.

“You are like my secret weapon,” Morrell said. “We couldn’t function without you. You are so essential to our Church in the Diocese of Metuchen … [You] may be in the background, might lose sight of your importance, or underrate you own work, but it cannot be easily duplicated by another.”

Mother Mary is another example of a woman who wore many hats, opined Morrell. “Mary grew in her understanding of her mission as mother of Christ,” she said. “We need to look at how she carried all these hats and not fall to pieces,” stressing Mary’s complete trust in God and belief in the divinity of her son, Jesus. Mary took her own advice, said Morrell, referring to Mary’s instructions to the servants at the Wedding of Cana: ”Do whatever he tells you.”

Morrell, too, has worn a number of

hats throughout her long career of service – creator of a Montessori based pre-K program at St. Cecelia’s School, Iselin; grant-writer; leader of religious education and communications for the dioceses of Metuchen and Trenton as well as RENEW International; hospice volunteer, and syndicated columnist for “Things My Father Taught Me,” which has been running uninterrupted since 1995. Morrell currently serves as president of the Foundation for the Institute of Judeo-Christian Studies at Seton Hall, and is editor-in-chief for “The Catholic Spirit,” the newspaper for the Diocese of Metuchen.

“To accept the things we have to do, we can carry the weight of our hats if we understand our mission,” Morrell continued. “If we turn to Mary, it becomes clear that God not only has a distinctive plan for each of us, but uses our efforts in ways that vastly exceed our own awareness. Through the examples of many men and women, Scripture has taught that each of us has a unique role in building the kingdom of God and our role cannot be carried out by anyone else.”

Morrell said, “Jesus grew the kingdom of God through invitation, and invitation is inherently welcoming. You are in the unique position as the director of first impressions to extend that same invitation to everyone you speak to, everyone who comes to the door, comes to you by emails and phone. Being welcoming is essential to making sure you help the parish grow in its mission.”

As the workshop drew to a close, Bishop James F. Checchio visited with the parish administrative assistants and expressed his love, prayers and gratitude for the many hats each wore while serving in their offices.

“You are certainly the front lines of the Church, which is the body of Christ,” the Bishop told them. “When people come to the church, you are the first contact for them, and how you treat them is how they see the Church. Mary gives us a good example of how you are supposed to be. Thank you for being the face of the Church.”

Workshop leader Mary Morrell, who serves the Diocese as editor-in-chief of The Catholic Spirit newspaper, shared insights on “The Many Hats of Mary” during a Day of Reflection for parish administrators April 1 at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center. Bishop James F. Checchio shared some laughter and gratitude with the admins, some of whom sported hats which signified their multi-faceted job responsibilities at their parishes. —Hal Brown photos

Educators engage in discussion, learning during Christian Anthropology workshop

Left, Dr. Michel Therrien , president and CEO of Preambula Group, a lay apostolate serving the New Evangelization in the Diocese of Pittsburgh, was one of two presenters for a workshop entitled “Christian Anthropology: Responding to Modern Challenges,” for some 70 educators from across the Diocese. Bottom left, participants review resource material from Sophia Teachers who sponsored the workshop. Bottom right, table discussions were an important part of the workshop. —John Batkowski photos

Special Contributor

More than 70 educators, including PCLs, catechists, teachers and school administrators from Catholic parishes and schools in the Diocese of Metuchen and neighboring dioceses, gathered at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center in Piscataway March 20 for an information-packed workshop sponsored by Sophia Teachers. Entitled “Christian Anthropology: Responding to Modern Challenges,” the workshop focused upon a clear presentation of the Catholic understanding of the human person and then juxtaposed this understanding with what is known in modern vernacular as ‘gender ideology’.

The workshop was conducted in an engaging and enriching manner that is particular to Sophia Teachers. By combining theology and science with catechetical, practical, and spiritual formation, the attendees were given a thorough explanation of Christian Anthropology and transgender ideology from a variety of perspectives. In addition, Sophia Teachers provided hands-on materials and accessibility to on-line resources that educators are immediately able to utilize

Jose Gonzalez, senior director of development for the Sophia Institute for Teachers, began the workshop by discussing the current New Jersey Public Schools Policy regarding gender identity and how this policy stands in direct contrast to the Catholic understanding of the human person made in the image of God. This discussion served as a launching point for a small group exercise that focused on an exploration of the Catholic understanding of the human person through the lens of sacred and religious art. Gonzalez then concluded the exercise with a comparison of the Catholic understanding of the human person, typically referred to as ‘Christian Anthropology,’ with the understanding of the human person from the perspective of gender ideology.

The workshop continued with a presentation by Dr. Michel Therrian, president and CEO of the Preambula Group, a lay apostolate serving the New Evangelization in the Diocese of Pittsburgh. Dr. Therrien explored scientific aspects of what determines whether a person is a male or a female. He also discussed various cultural influences from different times in history, illustrating that styles of

dress, participation in certain activities, and even hairstyles have influenced the perception of what it means to be male and female throughout the years. Dr. Therrian emphasized that these cultural influences do not, however, determine whether a person is a male or a female.

Dr. Therrian’s presentation continued with current statistics regarding gender dysphoria and medical topics associated with the current trend of what is known as ‘gender affirming care’ including: the use of puberty blockers in children, the administration of cross-sex hormones, and various surgeries. In addition, Dr. Therrian presented the results of a longitudinal study published in the February 2025 issue of the Journal of Sexual Medicine regarding the question of whether sex transition surgery helped those with gender dysphoria in terms of anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation. The results indicate that for both men and women, those who had undergone sex transition surgery were at higher risk for anxiety, depression, and suicidal ideation than those that did not undergo sex transition surgery.

As the workshop progressed further, Gonzalez utilized a superhero video and

a video of a pair of ice skaters to prompt small group discussions exploring the ‘super powers’ of men and women and the human body in general. He also provided an overview of the many resources available for educators on the topic of gender ideology available on the Sophia Teachers website. Jose closed with a discussion that emphasized the need for educators to embrace the idea of spiritual accompaniment for those wrestling with gender confusion and to be conscious of not ignoring the needs of the other students in the classroom when trying to care for a student experiencing gender confusion.

The daylong workshop concluded with enthusiastic applause and a myriad of comments of praise and appreciation. Coleen D’Amato, PCL at Immaculate Conception Parish in Annandale remarked, “This was the best workshop I have ever attended. Everyone that works with young people: PCLs, catechists, teachers, youth ministers, parents … everyone should attend this workshop.”

Jill Kerekes serves as director of the Office of Discipleship, which sponsored the workshop. Robert Christie, correspondent, contributed to the article.

Lisa

on behalf

who died at the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Monsignor Joseph

Immaculata High School Jazz Band entertains guests at the school’s Hall of Fame gala.

Correspondent

A firefighter who made the ultimate sacrifice on 9/11, the first female golfer in school history to compete at the Division I level in college, a trailblazer in Type 1 diabetes research, a former major league baseball pitcher, and the entire national championship marching band from 2012 were among those inducted into the ninth Hall of Fame class by Immaculata High School, Somerville, on April 10 at The Palace in Somerset.

In a letter to the inductees, school administrators and the community, Bishop James F. Checchio wrote, “Immaculata High School stands on the pillars of Faith, Scholarship, Service and Friendship and your legacy embodies these virtues in extraordinary ways. Through your achievements, you have not only excelled in your respective fields but have also served as role models for generations of Spartans to come.”

As guests gathered to greet the honorees, the Immaculata Jazz Band entertained during the cocktail hour, and student vocalists opened the evening with a

stirring a cappella Star Spangled Banner.

Linda Piscadlo, an Immaculata alumna and school board member who has chaired the Hall of Fame selection and gala committee for the past eight years, recognized both the honorees, whose “pursuit of greatness in their own ways made them stand out,” and the attendees, whose “support of tonight’s event will help continue the great things that are happening at our school.”

As he offered Grace, Monsignor Joseph Celano, pastor at Church of the Immaculate Conception and director of schools for both Immaculata and Immaculate Conception School, said, “We give you thanks, God, for the many gifts you’ve bestowed upon us beyond measure. We especially thank you for the men and women we honor tonight … May their varied achievements serve to inspire us and our youth to strive for that excellence of character to which you call us.”

This year’s honorees were:

Chike Aguh, class of 2001, whose career in public service has included administration roles at the federal level,

where he helped shape a $2 billion effort to modernize the U.S. unemployment insurance system.

John Collins, class of 1976, inducted in memoriam, who was a New York City firefighter who gave his life trying to save others in the tragic attacks on the World Trade Center in September 2001.

Wayne Hartshorn, class of 1984, a leader on the football field with a “refuse to lose” mentality that carried over to his work as a youth football coach and his company, a pioneer in cutting edge air quality solutions. Hartshorn was so deeply impacted by the Sisters, Servants of the Immaculate Heart of Mary and the charism of the school that he became a convert to Catholicism while at Immaculata.

Dr. Aaron Kowalski, class of 1989, who as CEO of Breakthrough TID, formerly the Juvenile Diabetes Research Foundation, is leading efforts to accelerate research toward a cure.

Mary Kate Williams Lynch, class of 2002, a multi-sport athlete who became the first female member of the Immaculata golf team, and who is today working as the first team manager of the national development program at the

United States Golf Association.

Mark Murphy, class of 1977, inducted in memoriam, whose success on the Immaculata basketball court until an injury cut short his near achievement of 1000 points transitioned to a life defined by perseverance, leadership and faith.

Jason Ryan, class of 1994, an Immaculata baseball standout who led his team to a county title and went on to play in Major League Baseball.

Gordie Sammis, class of 2003, today a respected college football coach at University of Connecticut, who was a dominant force on the field at both Immaculata and University of Virginia.

The 2012 Spartan Marching Band, a group of extraordinary musicians and performers whose undefeated season culminated in a national championship. Principal Ed Webber, in 2012 the school’s director of bands, and Sister Dolores Margaret, IHM, at that time the music director, accepted the award on behalf of the marching band, which was well represented at the program.

Over 200 attendees honored this year’s inductees.

, pictured left to right are inductees Wayne Hartshorn; Sister Dolores Margaret, IHM, on behalf of the 2012 Marching Band; Chike Aguh; Dr. Aaron Kowalski; Mary Kate Williams Lynch; Jason Ryan;

Murphy,

of her deceased husband, Mark Murphy, and Gordie Sammis , left to right: John Collins, honored in memoriam,

G. Celano gives thanks for God’s grace at the Immaculata Hall of Fame gala.

—Bianca Borja photos, Immaculata Class of 2024

The Blessing of Old Age

The Office of Human Life & Dignity held its annual Respect Life Poster Contest for Catholic Schools and Religious Education students, grades 1-8. This year students were asked to reflect on the “The Blessing of Old Age” and to draw a picture of how a grandparent or an older person in your life has impacted your life in a very positive way. There were 144 entries with 16 Catholic Schools and 13 religious education programs participating. The posters were judged by diocesan staff based on creativity, clarity of message and visual appeal.

Once again, the winning posters will be used to make a 2025-2026 calendar. To order a calendar contact Angela at 732-562-1543 or amarshall@diometuchen.org. Cost is $5.

First Grade

First Place: Olivia Atobey Immaculate Conception School, Spotswood

First Grade

Second Place: Sophia Monegro-Tapia St. Francis Cathedral School, Metuchen

Second Grade

First Place: Chloe Bock St. Thomas the Apostle School, Old Bridge

Second Grade

Second Place: Therese Costanzo School of St. Elizabeth, Bernardsville

Third Grade

First Place: Owen Patti Immaculate Conception School, Somerville

Third Grade

Second Place: Kevin Peralta St. Matthias School, Somerset

Fourth Grade

Second Place: Emilia Kaczkowski St. John Vianney Religious Education, Colonia

First

Second

Fifth Grade

First Place: Avery Patterson St. Francis Cathedral School, Metuchen

Seventh Grade

First Place: Alex Sgro St. Bartholomew School, East Brunswick

Fifth Grade

Second Place: Nicole Nowak St. Matthias School, Somerset

Sixth Grade Second Place: Adalie D’Mello St. Helena School, Edison

Sixth Grade

Place: Sophia Kossowicz Holy Savior Academy, South Plainfield

Seventh Grade Second Place: Emma Merendeiro St. Stanislaus Kostka School, Sayreville

Fourth Grade

First Place: Shepherd Jones School of St. Elizabeth, Bernardsville

Eighth Grade

First Place: Anthony LaTorre Our Lady of Lourdes Religious Education, Whitehouse Sta.

Eighth Grade

Second Place Tie: Brighid Horvath Immaculate Conception School, Somerville

Eighth Grade

Place Tie: Charlie Barnstein St. Bartholomew School, East Brunswick

A Time of Journeying Together in Hope

Holy Week, the final week of Lent and the period leading up to Easter, commemorates the last days of Jesus Christ’s life on earth, including his death and Resurrection. It’s a time of solemn reflection, remembrance of his suffering, and anticipation for the joy of his Resurrection.

We enter Holy Week through the gate of Palm Sunday moving toward Easter during a time, says Pope Francis, which serves as an experience of grace and opportunity to open our hearts to others and the Lord.

Pope Francis encourages Catholics to focus on the cross and rediscover the amazement of Christ’s saving Passion. This is a time of journeying together in hope and reflecting on the promises of God.

Holy Week allows Christians to embrace the significance of Jesus’ sacrifice for humanity, his death on the cross, and his victory over death. It’s a time to deepen faith, renew covenants with God, and reaffirm devotion to Jesus Christ.

The faithful in the Diocese of Metuchen, members of 90 different parishes, journeyed through Holy Week with members of their unique parish families and the broader Church that is our shared home.

What follows are small vignettes of Holy Week and Easter with our Bishop James F. Checchio, representing our many and varied moments of worship during this blessed season.

PALM SUNDAY

HOLY THURSDAY

HB HB

Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bernardsville

Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen

Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen

GOOD FRIDAY

HOLY SATURDAY

EASTER VIGIL

Good Shepherd Parish, Hopelawn

—Photos by: John Batkowski (JB), Hal Brown (HB), Marlo Williamson (MW)

Holy Trinity, Helmetta

Our Lady of Lourdes, Milltown

Christ the Redeemer Parish, Manville

Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen

Way of the Cross, St. Joseph Parish, Carteret

At A Glance: The Heart of Our Mission

The Diocese of Metuchen pro claims the Gospel of Jesus Christ, celebrates the sacraments and ex ercises His works of mercy so that all might participate in His salvation and discover the lasting joy of a re lationship with Him.

The Diocese of Metuchen en compasses the New Jersey counties of Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren. Below is a view of our mission in the Diocese of Metuchen in 2024

Catholic Charities:

During fiscal year 2024, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen, performed 129,442 hours of service and 69,331 Days of Care to their clients. They also served 70,216 individuals in various programs. In February of 2023, CCDOM launched the Mental Health Navigator.

The Mental Health Navigator is a free service to assist residents of the Diocese of Metuchen in receiving support and education on how to understand and obtain mental health services and help remove the barriers that often exist when trying to figure out where to start. Current clients of Catholic Charities, prospective clients, parishioners, as well as students who attend schools in our diocese are all encouraged to use the navigator to obtain a better quality of life.

The Catholic Center at Rutgers University:

The Catholic Center is a light on the campus of Rutgers University, reaching students in need with the love of Jesus Christ. In 2024, the staff, student leaders and missionaries reached out to hundreds of students with ‘front porch’ hospitality through welcoming events, on campus tabling and our monthly large group meeting, Knight Fire.

Led by the Brotherhood of Hope and the Sisters of Jesus our Hope, we built relational and transformative environments for the students and invited them to an encounter with the Lord through our fall and spring retreats, daily Mass and weekly Eucharistic adoration, and deeper formation to a life of missionary discipleship through our households and formation community.

The Office for Religious and Consecrated Life’s focus is to assist Bishop James F. Checchio in his evangelization efforts and to give witness to consecrated life as expressed in the vocation of each person as well as in the particular charism of each religious community. In 2024, the office hosted a special Fiat Day for young women in our diocese, many of whom are discerning their religious vocations. Members of consecrated life were also invited, for the first time ever, to take part in a Virtual Encounter for All Members of Consecrated Life in the United States. This extraordinary event encouraged consecrated men and women in each country to mark the 2025 Jubilee Year of Hope in a special way during the World Day of Consecrated Life.

The Office of Communications and Public Relations:

The Office of Communications and Public Relations continues the work begun in 2022-2023 of highlighting the good works of the Diocese through its various print and online platforms. The Catholic Spirit, the official newspaper of the Diocese, continues to thrive, winning several awards at the Catholic Media Conference, including Best Front Page - Diocesan Newspaper. The office has also expanded its online presence, creating and maintaining a number of new social media platforms in an effort to engage new audiences. The office also partnered with the Office of Stewardship and Development to create a series of short videos highlighting the various diocesan offices and how they are meeting the needs of the faithful.

The Office of Discipleship Formation for Children:

The Office of Discipleship Formation for Children has been busy in 2024, launching a diocesan partnership with Franciscan University’s Catechetical Institute, which provides for unlimited use of the Franciscan at Home ministry formation platform for all ministry leaders and teams in the Diocese of Metuchen, including: PCLs, catechists, parents, marriage ministers, OCIA teams, Youth Ministers, Young Adult ministers, Hispanic Ministry leaders, and Catholic school teachers and administrators. There are currently about 360 learners using the platform. The office also developed and began implementation of a diocesan Catechist Certificate program, which includes both in person sessions and workshops on the Franciscan at Home platform.

The Office of Evangelization:

The Office of Evangelization has never been busier. This past May, we welcomed the “Perpetual Pilgrims” of the National Eucharistic Pilgrimage to the Diocese. The office also organized a pilgrimage to Lucas Oil Stadium in Indianapolis for the first National Eucharistic Congress in 83 years, joining 70,000 people from all over the country. Inspired by the third and final year of the National Eucharistic Revival, the Diocese also hosted an Evangelization Workshop this past fall, encouraging each and every parishioner to “Walk With One” during this Year of Mission. Last but not least, the office hosted a series of leadership summits for men, in the hope of establishing ministry to men in each and every parish in the Diocese.

The Office of Family Life Ministry:

The Office of Family Life Ministry continues to minister to families at all ages and stages. In 2024 alone, the office helped over three hundred engaged couples go

DIOCESE OF METUCHEN ANNUAL REPORT

through our “God’s Plan for Joy-Filled Marriage” program. The office also had more couples express interest in learning about Natural Family Planning and connecting with NAPRO providers than ever before. Our Silver and Gold Anniversary Celebration included more than eighty couples, including those celebrating 5-year anniversaries for the first time ever. Our Separated and Divorced Group continues to thrive and our new Life-Giving Wounds support group for adult children of divorce, which began this year, will be offered annually going forward.

The Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry:

Responding to the guidelines and challenges proposed by the USCCB in the National Pastoral Plan for the Hispanic/ Latino Community, the Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry continues to support our community on its journey toward a deeper relationship with Jesus Christ through the Hispanic Bible School, with more than 150 active students. In October 2024, the first Hispanic Bible Study class graduated 39 students. Partnerships with other institutions, such as Oregon Catholic Press and Catholic Relief Services, as well as ongoing assistance from Episcopal Region III and the diocesan Hispanic leadership team, have allowed the office to respond to the ongoing needs of the Hispanic community in our diocese.

The Office of Human Life and Dignity:

The Office of Human Life and Dignity held its 23rd Choices Matter Conference in March, featuring a number of nationally recognized speakers. An inaugural New Jersey Statewide Mass for Life was held in Trenton, the state’s capital, in September 2024 with the Cardinal and the Bishops (or their delegates) from the Province concelebrating. Approximately

1200 people from across the state attended the Mass. The Mass was followed by a Rally and then a March through the streets of Trenton to give a public witness to the sanctity of all human life from conception until natural death. The office also held its second annual Feminine Genius Brunch this past October, celebrating the uniqueness of women.

The Office of Multicultural Ministry:

The Office of Multicultural Ministry continues to support the other diocesan offices, pastors, and parish leaders in ministering to culturally diverse populations throughout the Diocese. In 2024, the office began implementation of the National Black Catholic Pastoral Plan of Action, a five-year plan which was issued following the 2023 National Black Catholic Congress. The office has also partnered with the New Jersey Catholic Conference Task Force in working towards Racial Justice. This past spring the office held a Multicultural Mass and Fair. This year’s theme was “Together as One in the Eucharist.” Eleven different cultures participated in this annual event, which featured a wide array of food, native tongues and colorful costumes.

The Office of OCIA:

This past year witnessed the publication of the new translation of the Order of Christian Initiation of Adults, a process that was first approved in 2021. To aid those involved in OCIA (formerly RCIA), the Diocese hosted a Making Disciples Institute for all OCIA team members at the end of 2023, providing them with a comprehensive overview of the entire catechumenate process. The office continues to partner with the Office of Divine Worship to oversee the Rite of Christian Initiation held each spring at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi. More recently, the Diocese held

a formation event for ministry leaders focusing on why a balance of liturgical, catechetical, and pastoral elements is es sential to effective evangelization.

The Office of Pontifical Mission Societies:

The Office of Pontifical Mission Societies is under the direct canonical jurisdiction of the Pope, who, together with the entire body of Bishops, remind the faithful of their Baptismal call to mission as they gather basic support for more than 1,150 mission dioceses in Asia, Africa, the Pacific Islands and Latin America. In addition to Missionary Cooperation Plan (MCP), which seeks to educate Catholics about current happenings in the mission world today, and the Missionary Childhood Association (MCA), which holds an annual artwork contest each year, the office supports World Mission Sunday, which highlights the outreach of local churches through priests, religious and laity among the poor and marginalized half a world away.

The

Office of Schools

The Office of Schools assists the Bishop in providing opportunities for the people of God to be formed, informed, and transformed into Disciples of Christ through the ministry of Catholic school education. Through academic excellence and a strong commitment to Gospel values, the twenty-six schools in our Diocese, including four high schools, inspire young minds to grow spiritually and intellectually. Our eight National Blue Ribbon Award winning schools, including this year’s awardee, St. James School in Basking Ridge, exemplify this mission, setting a standard of excellence in Catholic education throughout the Diocese. Together, we nurture future leaders who are prepared to serve with wisdom, compassion, and faith.

The Office of Vocations:

The Office of Vocations exists to support and inspire individuals in discovering and embracing their God-given vocation. Thankfully, the office is experiencing a period of remarkable growth, with many new discerners and applicants joining the journey. Five new priests were ordained to the priesthood in 2024, the most since 2002. This positive trend reflects the enthusiastic efforts of the Vocations Ministry Teams, the supportive parish communities, and our dedicated priests. The office continues to provide essential guidance and resources to those exploring their call to serve. With 20 seminarians and many others discerning a vocation to the priesthood or religious life, the state of vocations is thriving and full of promise for the future.

The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry:

The Office of Youth and Young Adult Ministry continues the goal of supporting and initiating youth ministry programs in as many parishes as possible. While holding Diocesan-wide youth events and continuing to encourage collaboration between youth ministers, we are pushing towards the goal of increasing the number of youth present at weekly Mass, as well as an overall increase of faith in Jesus Christ within our young people’s hearts. The office is also focused on re-kindling the liveliness of Young Adult Ministry within the Diocese and of providing a space for young adults to feel connected to other like-minded Catholics, while spreading their love for Christ’s Church. The hope is that the youth and young adults can help synergistically spread their youthful spirits within their Parishes and affect all of those around them.

Healing, Truth and Hope: A Pastoral Response to Past Abuse

Through our procedures, through our outreach, and through our prayers, the Diocese of Metuchen continues to work to prevent abuse and to facilitate healing for survivors of abuse.

The Diocese of Metuchen has:

• 0% of credibly accused priests in public ministry *Any accused priest is subject to an extensive and thorough investigation under the scrutiny of Law Enforcement and the Diocesan Review Board, consisting of a survivor of clergy sexual abuse, a former Attorney General and Supreme Court Justice of NJ, a former County Prosecutor, a Superior Court Judge, medical and psychiatric professionals, educators and other qualified professionals.

• 24/7 availability to report abuse

• 6,841 adults who were background checked and trained to recognize and report signs of suspected abuse *Number reported from July 1, 2023-June 30, 2024 and includes priests, deacons, candidates for ordination, educators, employees and volunteers working or ministering to children and young people.

• 21,848 Children who received age-appropriate training to guard against abuse

*Number reported from July 1, 2023June 30, 2024 and includes Catholic school students and students in parish religious education programs.

• 90 Parish background coordinators to facilitate background checks

• 26 School background coordinators to facilitate background checks

• $3.7 Million paid in settlements since the founding of the diocese in 1981; $1.27 Million of that was paid through the independent victim compensation program

*No gifts to the Bishop’s Annual Appeal, to Catholic Charities, to Catholic Schools, nor monies given for a specific ministry or apostolate are used to fund settlements. The total funds paid reflects all settlements through June 30, 2024.

More information about the measures in place to prevent abuse in the Diocese can be found by visiting: diometuchen. org/healing

How To Report Abuse

If you suspect abuse by a member of clergy, an employee, or a volunteer for the Catholic Church, please:

• Immediately notify local law enforcement

• Notify the New Jersey Division of Child Protection and Permanency by calling 1-877-NJ ABUSE (652-2873) or 1-800-835-5510 (TTY/TDD for the deaf), available 24/7

• Contact the Diocese of Metuchen’s Director of Child and Youth Protection by calling (908) 930-4558 or visit diometuchen.org/healing to file a report.

How To Report Abuse By A Bishop:

In response to Pope Francis’ Motu proprio, Vos estis lux mundi, or “You are the light of the world,” the U.S. Bishops launched the Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting service, which ensures all levels of Church hierarchy are held to the same level of accountability. A similar independent reporting structure had already been established by Bishop James F. Checchio in the Diocese of Metuchen. Complaints of sexual abuse and related misconduct by bishops can be submitted to the independent service by visiting ReportBishopAbuse.org or by calling (800) 276-1562.

This third-party service does not replace existing reporting systems for complaints against Bishops, priests, deacons, religious brothers or sisters, or lay persons working or volunteering for the Church, which were established in 2002 with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People. The reporting of sexual misconduct by anyone in diocesan ministry should continue to be reported in accordance with the Diocese of Metuchen’s child protection policy outlined above.

“The implementation of the Catholic Bishop Abuse Reporting service reaffirms the commitment of Bishop Checchio and his brother bishops to live according to the Gospel and to place themselves under the same high standards applied to their priests, deacons, and lay personnel,” said Anthony P. Kearns, Chancellor for the Diocese of Metuchen. He further said, “This service is another step forward in ensuring accountability is maintained on all levels and is the latest in a long history of actions taken by the Diocese of Metuchen to ensure protection of all of the faithful.”

On hills of Bernardsville, hundreds run, walk in annual Shamrock Shuffle

age from 6 to 96, participated in the School of St. Elizabeth’s 5th Annual Shamrock Shuffle in Bernardsville, March 22.

Field Grand Prix 5K, with nearly 300 runners conquering the 3.1-mile route through the Bernardsville hills.

Two high school juniors – Brody Watt of Bernards High School and Blythe Dudley of Villa Walsh Academy – were named overall winners. Dudley set a new course record. Watt recently won gold in the Boys 800m, 1600m and 3200m at the Garden State High School Indoor Track Invitational.

Department 5K Club in Jockey Hollow National Park. The run club was inspired by the 1980s legendary Mine Mt. Road Department Club that trained on the hills of Bernardsville; it is organized by St. Elizabeth’s cross country coaches and is featured in the new book, “Blood, Sweat & Spikes: Running the Wetmore Way”

Participants were entertained with DJ music from Sandro Nunez, a St. Elizabeth’s dad; bagpipes and drums from

Race Director Hilary Dudley, a School of St. Elizabeth parent, organized and coordinated the events, as she has in past years, ensuring that opportunities toning as a healthy and rewarding activitymunity. Dudley previously ran at Notre Dame University and has an extensive background in running.

The next Shamrock Shuffle is planned

Contributed by Marisa Friedman,

Top left, pictured from left, Father Jay Siceloff, pastor, Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Bernardsville; Julian Bonk, finishing third overall; Brody Watt, finishing first overall, John Richardson, finishing second overall, and Deacon Russell Raffay, principal of the School of Saint Elizabeth, pose for a congratulatory photo.

Entertainment for the Shamrock Shuffle included, top right, bagpipes and drums from The Guard and, bottom left, performances by La Pointe Academy of Irish Dance, enjoyed by, bottom right, a group of young, happy participants.

—Courtesy photos

East Brunswick school earns prestigious community recognition

By David Karas, Correspondent

For the second time in seven years, East Brunswick-based St. Bartholomew School has been named the top private school in Central Jersey.

The honor came as part of the 2024 Central Jersey Community Choice Awards, sponsored by My Central Jersey Gannett Company. Each year, residents vote for the “best of” in a range of categories, and St. Bartholomew landed the “Best Private School” honors – which the school also earned in 2017.

“Being voted Best Private School in Central Jersey is not just a personal achievement for each teacher, staff member, and student, it is also a proud moment for the entire school and parish community,” said principal Theresa Craig. “Knowing that everyone’s hard work and dedication have brought recognition to St. Bartholomew School serves as a reminder that teamwork and perseverance plays a huge role in our success.”

Craig shared that the school celebrated its 60th anniversary last year, as well.

“Every day we strive to live the mission of the school,” she said, “which is to love, educate, and inspire our children to live the teachings of Jesus Christ.”

Father Thomas Walsh has been pastor of St Bartholomew Parish since November 2007, and he recalls the challenges facing the parish school at the time.

“When I arrived here, the school was struggling with the problem of decreasing enrollment and a need to update our facilities,” he said. “Presently, we have over 400 students enrolled for this academic year and our school facilities have been completely updated.”

He noted that the school is closely

Immaculata

connected with its parish, and that faith is at the center of everything they do. Students enjoy morning prayer and Friday school Masses, with each class given the opportunity to help in the preparation of the liturgy. The school has supported a choir, as well.

Father Walsh – who in the 1980s served as director of the religion department at St. John Vianney High School, Holmdel, before becoming a priest – believes strongly in the value of Catholic education, and seeks to support that in

each of the students who attend St. Bartholomew.

“I hope that they will be successful in all their future endeavors, but I want them to be good Catholics and good citizens,” he said. “Our community has endeavored to guide them in the way of the Gospel. We have provided them with a ‘compass’ (of) the teachings of Jesus Christ to guide them throughout the years ahead. This is the true hallmark of a Catholic education.”

—St. Bartholomew School Facebook photos

honored with the 2025 NJ Governor's Award in Arts Education for Vocal Music. This esteemed recognition celebrates her outstanding con-

tributions to the arts and highlights the importance of arts education in New Jersey.

The NJ Governor's Awards in Arts Education honors students who demonstrate exceptional talent, creativity, and commitment to the arts. Polito, a leader in the music program at Immaculata, is president of the Tri-M Music Honor Society, student director and pianist of the Music Ministry, member of the Spartan and Chamber Choirs, cast member in spring musicals, and vocalist for the Jazz Band.

Polito also participated as the top-scoring alto for three years in the Central Jersey Music Educators Association Regions choirs and as a member of the 2023 NJ All-State Mixed Choir. Singing with the 2024 All-State Treble Choir, Susan was recognized as the top-scoring vocalist across all voices. She will participate in the National Association for Music Education 2025 All-Eastern Treble Choir in Hartford, Conn., this April.

In addition to vocal music, Polito is a passionate instrumentalist who plays clarinet in the Immaculata Marching Band

and has performed as the principal harpist of the New Jersey All-State Wind Ensemble and Orchestra. She is a cantor at the Church of St. James in Basking Ridge.

Following graduation from Immaculata, Polito will continue her artistic journey by pursuing a degree in music business at New York University in the fall. She aspires to become a leader in the music industry, helping to make music accessible for all, while continuing to perform as a harpist and vocalist.

Immaculata High School, a coeducational college preparatory high school founded in 1962, is committed to the development of the whole person within the framework of Catholic traditions and values. Guided by the pillars of Faith, Scholarship, Service and Friendship, Immaculata integrates a challenging academic curriculum that promotes spiritual, intellectual, physical, emotional and social growth while fostering moral responsibility to self and others. For more information, visit: immaculatahighschool.org.

Susan Polito of Basking Ridge, a student in the class of 2025 at Immaculata High School, has been

MSMA’s athletic director retires after 40 years of making a difference

By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor

change the course of your life’s direction. Denise Materia, who this spring will retire from a 40-year career as Mount Saint Mary Academy Athletic Director, recalled her first introduction to the Catholic girls’ preparatory school set high on a hill in the Watchung Mountains.

“I have always thought that I was guided to the Mount,” recalled Materia, who had been raised Catholic and attended public schools. “I was coaching for a public school when the bus broke down right in front of the Mount. We got off the bus and I saw the sign ‘Sisters of Mercy Mount Saint Mary Academy.’ It was the first time I realized it was a school even though I had seen it many times before. Three weeks later, I heard from a friend there was an opening for a P.E. teacher, and the rest is history.”

And what a remarkable history it was – the physical education teacher and head coach amassed numerous wins in basketball (11 years, overall record 146 and 78) and softball (23 years, overall record 256 and 170.)

Materia, who earned a bachelor’s degree from Montclair State University and a master’s degree in educational administration from Kean University,

taught Physical Education, Health, and Driver Education, and currently serves as Assistant Directress for Student Life.

Promoted in 1985 to the slot of school athletic director, Materia’s leadership prompted the addition of 16 new programs, five junior varsity teams and two freshman teams as well as establishing the sports of soccer, swimming, spring track, indoor track, volleyball, lacrosse and golf at the Mount.

Materia’s list of accomplishments also includes two NJSIAA finals, four Skyland Conference championships, two county finals, two area coach of the year honors, the 2024 Skyland Conference Service Award, and induction into the 2013 Mount Saint Mary Academy Hall of Honor and the 2016 New Jersey Scholastic Coaches Association (NJSCA) Hall of Fame.

Materia recalled, “The athletic department at the Mount was so small when I arrived. Being an all-girls school, Title IX had not had the impact it had in coed schools. I was blessed by supportive Directresses that allowed me to add sports, programs, facilities: everything to make our athletic department respected.”

Materia readily admitted her Catholic faith and sports career dovetailed

perfectly, stating, “This was a great fit for me. I was able to live my faith. Athletics presents many opportunities to live our values in real time and model them for our students. As the A.D., I tried to surround myself with coaches and staff that would do just that far beyond the X’s and O’s and the win-loss record.”

Mount Saint Mary Academy directress Mercy Sister Lisa Gambacorto offered high praise for Materia’s four decades of service to the Catholic preparatory school. Sister Lisa declared, “Denise has been the guiding light of our athletic department for almost 40 years. Her leadership and dedication, not only to athletics, but all things Mount, has been instrumental in the success of our athletic and activities’ program.

“She has modeled for our students – women’s leadership, sportsmanship, and what it means to play fair – making them better athletes and women. She has been, and continues to create, a positive, can-do attitude, and goes the extra mile … It is very rare in this day and age to have anyone stay at one place and build a legacy, but Denise has done just that.”

Jacqueline Conti Muratore, assistant directress for faculty, curriculum and planning, recalled many memorable experiences with Materia, saying, “I feel like I have been learning from Denise for a very long time! She actually taught me how to drive – she was my Health and

Driver Education teacher when I was a student at the Mount, and I did my six hours of driving practice with her.

“Then, throughout my time as a faculty member, I saw her in action as the AD and was continually impressed by how well she understands the mission of our school and the culture of our community. And now, as a fellow administrator, I can say that she is the absolute best teammate. She is incredibly supportive and always has your back.”

“She makes a difference at the Mount,” continued Sister Lisa, “and will leave a lasting impact on the athletic program and the school. Teacher, coach, mentor, NJ Hall of Fame Coaches’ Honoree, Athletic Director, Sisters of Mercy Associate, Assistant Directress, Disciplinarian, and the person we go to – to ensure that fun never dies at the Mount – a central galvanizing force at the Mount with many talents – never afraid to say ‘Yes!’ We thank you for your incredible contributions to the Mount and for your fidelity and friendship, and we are grateful for all of her work on behalf of Lion Nation.”

The long-time female athletic director sent a message to others contemplating such a career. “There are many amazing women filling this role across the state but still far fewer than men,” Materia said. “I encourage young women to pursue this field as it can be very fulfilling and girls need role models and to hear our voice.”

Materia’s retirement plans include travelling and a move to Florida, but one thing is certain. “I know my heart will always be with the school on the top of the hill.”

It’s thumbs up for Denise Materia and the Mount’s lion mascot. In a letter about the school’s athletic program, Materia writes: “Welcome to Lion Nation! In our athletic program, students have a forum to develop their physical skills and finetune their abilities to be the best that they can be.”  —Courtesy photo

Students at the Mount live Mercy core values during Service Day

Within only three hours on Wednesday morning, the Mount community united to illustrate the importance of the Mercy Core Values - Inspired by Faith and Compelled by Mercy - by reaching out to improve the lives of others in need during Service Day. This annual event featured separate grade levels under the advisement of faculty/staff in different shifts, assisting various organizations on and off campus.

Bishop James F. Checchio joined the Mount community for many of the day’s activities.

Freshmen listened to a speech by

Mansi Shah of Operation Smile before heading off to assemble smile bags for clients served by the organization. Sophomores mobilized their efforts off campus where they offered their assistance at Crossroads School in Westfield, Jardine Academy in Cranford, Inspire Family Life Center in Warren, Moms Helping Moms in Warren, and McAuley Hall Health Care Center on the Mount campus.

Juniors were inspired by a speech from Lucy DelGaudio, a veteran of the U.S. Army. They designed and decorated canvas tote bags – or Stand Down Bags

– to be filled with hygiene products and distributed to veterans. They also made bracelets and cards for the veterans and assembled packages for Operation Shoebox. Seniors packed meals for Rise Against Hunger after hearing a speech from a representative from the Community Food Bank of New Jersey.

At the conclusion of Service Day, students, faculty, and staff gathered in the Chapel of the Immaculate Conception to pray and reflect on the impact that had been made during the morning of outreach and service.

Immaculate Conception School Blue Mass offers role

models for students

By Susan Odenthal, Correspondent

Ceil Cullen, music teacher at Immaculate Conception School in Somerville, began the school’s Blue Mass with her son-in-law Matthew Tarentino in 2015 because she was troubled by the animosity directed at law enforcement at the time, and felt the school children needed positive role models.

Detective Tarentino ended his watch on May 30, 2017, tragically killed in the line of duty, soon after the Mass had been celebrated for the third year. It has become a school institution, and was celebrated this year on March 27 by pastor Monsignor Joseph G. Celano and attended by approximately 70 members of the law enforcement community in Somerset County and the City of Summit Police, where Detective Tarentino served.

Mrs. Cullen acknowledged the diffi-

culty she and her family faced in continuing the effort after Detective Tarentino’s death, but she said she asked herself, “How can I continue to do this … but how can I not continue to do this?”

In his homily, Monsignor Celano spoke of how Jesus overcame the evil that seeks to bring man to ruin. “Where evil seeks to destroy, the work of God restores and renews,” he said. “We gather today to honor you and thank you, men and women of law enforcement who protect and serve. Even as we honor you, we realize that you, more than most, see the worst we are capable of, and you have looked in the face of evil.”

He continued, “Please know you are appreciated by many, including our children who are here today to honor you. Remember the admiration in these young eyes, especially if you ever question the difference you are making in other peo-

Knights of Columbus award State Free Throw trophies

By Christina Leslie, Contributing Editor

Six young sharpshooters from the Diocese of Metuchen – two of them repeat winners – earned accolades, trophies and their places on the list of this year’s 12 winners of the 2025 Knights of Columbus Free Throw Tournament state finals, held April 5 in the Msgr. Dalton gym of Our

Monroe sank an admirable 23 of his 25 attempts at the basket to win the boys’ trophy for his age category. A pair of 10-year-olds from the Metuchen Diocese locked up the boys’ and girls’ trophies respectively; Eddy Wei of Hillsborough tied an opponent with 21 baskets then won in a shootout with five more swishes for a victory. Reagan Donley of Basking Ridge sank 22 of 25 attempts at the basket; Donley is no stranger to pressure on Continued on page 44

Crosby DeCoster of Califon, center, poses with an oversize trophy after his perfect run of 25 out of 25 foul shots at the 2025 Knights of Columbus N.J. State Free Throw tournament April 5 in the gym of Our Lady of Victories Parish, Sayreville. The 14-year-old resident of Califon was among six Metuchen sharpshooters who won accolades in the annual contest.

—James Malinowski photo

ple’s lives. It is not lost on us.”

Students at the school were especially proud of their law enforcement families in attendance. The Macones family – mom Alyssa, and students Josephine, Juliette, Joshua and Jacob, participated in the offertory procession as dad Chad watched from the pews where law enforcement staff had assembled following the procession.

Annie Tarentino-Proctor sang the Psalm, and her brothers, Robbie and Raymond Tarentino-Proctor, offered the Prayer of the Faithful. Ryan Helios, whose parents are both in law enforcement, concluded Mass with a prayer for police officers, asking God to “watch over our dear police officers and protect them with your love. Give them true strength and courage. And one more thing, God, protect their families and friends.”

Dean of Students Vickie Proctor,

widowed when Detective Tarentino died tragically, later married another law enforcement officer in what she describes as “a blessing of God’s abounding grace.” Retired City of Summit Captain Rick Proctor today serves as the director of security for the entirety of Immaculate Conception Parish. Before the final blessing, Mrs. Proctor offered a personal rendition of a beloved contemporary song, which she called “Officers’s Hallelujah.”

Joined by the students on every chorus, she sang in part: “Each day they kiss goodbye the ones they love, and face things we wouldn’t understand…We offer you our love with hearts filled with respect and gratitude. We know some pay the final price … when the badge you wear protects us all and you fearlessly answer the call … we thank you, oh we thank you.”

—Courtesy photos

By David Karas, Correspondent

Each day, the dedicated faculty and staff at St. Thomas the Apostle School, Old Bridge, work to provide their students with solid foundations in academics and faith.

“St. Thomas offers challenging, well-rounded educational experiences with a focus on both intellectual and moral growth,” said principal Annette Pioppo. “We offer smaller class sizes, which allow for more personalized attention, which is beneficial in fostering each student’s academic potential. We encourage a family-oriented atmosphere where students, teachers, and families know each other well, creating a strong sense of belonging.”

Students begin each day with prayer and a reflection on the school’s selected Saint of the Month. Beyond the core academic subjects, the school’s curriculum includes specials like physical education, art, music, Spanish and digital technology. Students also participate in handson science labs and digital technology workshops, allowing them to delve into STEM with activities like coding.

After the school day is over, students can participate in a wide range of extracurricular activities, like choir, an art club, chess club, rosary club, athletics, instruments and band – as well as a spring musical and school newspaper.

Across the board, students receive individualized support, said Pioppo.

“We support the individual strengths and talents of each student,” she said. “Whether academic, athletic, artistic, or social, we ensure that every child has the

St. Thomas the Apostle School provides well-rounded education to students

Saint Thomas the Apostle School educates minds and hearts through the integration of a challenging curriculum and a firm faith in our Lord and our God. We do this for our students by supporting diversified achievements, respectful leadership, and Christian service to God and Community …

"DO IT ALL FOR THE GLORY OF GOD"

– 1 CORINTHIANS 10:31

opportunity to succeed and grow in their unique way.”

As a Catholic institution, faith is also a core component of the student experience.

“As a Catholic school, our faith initiatives permeate every part of the day, beginning with prayer and reflection and ending our day with prayer,” said Pioppo. “Our students actively participate in liturgies, prayer services, and faith-based discussions, fostering a deep sense of purpose in their education. They understand that what they are learning extends beyond academics – it’s about growing in faith, virtue, and character.”

For Suzanne Hoos, St. Thomas the Apostle has been a big part of her life – both during her own time as a student there as a member of the class of 1966, and now as a seventh and eighth grade language arts teacher who has called the school her professional home for 52 years.

“St. Thomas the Apostle is more than just a school–it’s a community built on faith, tradition, and heart,” she said.

“As both a graduate and a teacher who began her career here at just 20, I’ve had the unique privilege of experiencing the school from both sides. There’s a sense of belonging that you feel the moment you walk through the doors. Students are known by name, supported not only academically but spiritually and emotionally as well.”

Hoos emphasized the small class sizes and dynamic approaches to learning as being key components of the school’s success in preparing students for what’s next.

“St. Thomas the Apostle School isn’t just preparing students for the next grade–it’s preparing them for life, and for

the world beyond these walls,” she said. “That’s a gift I’ve experienced personally, and it’s one I’m honored to help pass on to the next generation.”

Fellow teacher Mary Conaghan has taught math at St. Thomas for more than a decade, and has four children who graduated from the school.

“St. Thomas is a Blue Ribbon recipient school, which demonstrates not only its academic rigor, but its well-roundedness in sports, art, drama, journalism, and community service,” she said, adding her appreciation of the education her own children received there. “I strongly feel that St. Thomas the Apostle is a pillar of not only Catholic education, but spirituality for non-Catholics.”

She also noted the engagement of the greater school community, highlighting the recent installation of a new gym floor that was made possible through the support of students, parents, teachers, alumni and parishioners.

When it comes to current students, the family atmosphere at St. Thomas is a big part of what makes them excited to come to school each day.

“The best part about my school is the excellent teachers and my supportive peers,” said eighth grader Christopher Abenante. “Our school is very friendly and the teachers make sure you feel welcomed and safe each and every day.”

Seventh grader Makayla Cabangon shared her appreciation for how much teachers care about their students.

“St. Thomas School is not only a special and safe place for students, but is also a place to grow academically and spiritually,” she said. “The teachers care

for their students and only hope for the best for them, helping make learning fun and interesting.”

Vice principal and third grade teacher Diane Zarate emphasized how hard teachers work to support their students.

“Teachers at St. Thomas the Apostle are dedicated to creating an engaging and nurturing classroom environment,” said Zarate. “They focus on each student's individual needs, encouraging creativity and critical thinking. This makes learning enjoyable and meaningful.”

Katie Lenning is an alumna of St. Thomas, and her three children are now students at the school.

“The leadership and teaching staff go above and beyond to ensure every student receives the best education and school experience,” she said. “St. Thomas the Apostle excels at incorporating academics and religion into (its) daily curriculum.”

She said that the school has exceeded expectations from her perspective as a parent, adding, “I look forward to watching my three children continue to grow and thrive while creating core memories.”

The school’s alumni network is also strong – as evidenced by alumni who teach and send their children there.

“St. Thomas has a long and proud history of academic and religious achievement, providing a sense of tradition and continuity, as well as a strong alumni network,” she said. “Students are part of a larger community that extends well beyond graduation.”

Our Mission Statement

WORLD & NATION

British

woman prosecuted for silently holding a sign by abortion clinic gets a backup from US

State Department

LIVERPOOL, England (OSV News) –

The U.S. State Department has expressed concern over the conviction of Livia Tossici-Bolt, a British woman found guilty for holding a sign outside an abortion clinic in Bournemouth, England. The 64-yearold retired scientist was charged with violating a 492-foot buffer zone, despite her sign reading only "Here to talk, if you want." Tossici-Bolt, a Christian, argued that she was merely offering a consensual conversation, protected under free speech

British pro-life activist Livia Tossici-Bolt, right, charged with alleged breaching of a “buffer zone” outside Bournemouth clinic, is accompanied by Isabel Vaughan-Spruce of March For Life UK, outside Poole Magistrates’ Court in Poole, England, April 4, 2025. OSV News photo/ Isabel Infantes, Reuters

rights. The U.S. called the conviction "disappointing," emphasizing the importance of protecting freedom of expression. Tossici-Bolt faces a fine of almost $26,000 and is considering an appeal. Her case has drawn attention to broader concerns about free speech in the U.K., following a similar incident involving another pro-life activist, Adam Smith-Connor. Both cases have sparked debate on whether the U.K. is restricting basic freedoms, with the U.S. government monitoring the situation closely.

As 'Laudato Si'' turns 10, experts urge greater response to Pope's urgent message on climate

NOTRE DAME, Ind. (OSV News) –Pope Francis' 2015 encyclical "Laudato Si'" warned of a world in crisis due to environmental neglect. Ten years later experts say progress has been made – but not nearly enough. In 2023, the Pope issued "Laudate Deum," stating that climate responses remain inadequate while the planet nears a "breaking point." Catholic leaders and organizations, including the Catholic Climate Covenant and the Laudato Si' Movement, acknowledge growing engagement but stress that political polarization and consumer culture hinder a more robust response. While global climate action has advanced, the U.S. Church's involvement remains inconsistent. Scientists confirm that 2024

Rock formations are seen along Lake Powell in Page, Ariz., Nov. 23, 2024. Pope Francis released his landmark environmental encyclical “Laudato Si’” 10 years ago May 14, 2015. —OSV News photo/Bob Roller

was Earth's hottest year on record, with worsening extreme weather. With the anniversary of "Laudato Si'," Catholics are called to deepen their commitment to caring for our common home. "It's up to humans – and their unique creativity – to come up with solutions," said Sister Damien Marie Savino, a Franciscan Sister of the Eucharist who is dean of science and sustainability at Aquinas College in Grand Rapids, Michigan and a visiting fellow at the University of Notre Dame in Indiana. "We wouldn't have environmental issues if it wasn't for human action. So, we have to recognize that our actions do have a unique effect because of our unique ecological niche."

Bishop Peter Baldacchino of Las Cruces, N.M.; Archbishop Gustavo García-Siller of San Antonio; Bishop Mark J. Seitz of El Paso, Texas; and Archbishop John C. Wester of Santa Fe, N.M., lead a march in El Paso March 24, 2025, against mass deportations by the U.S. government. —OSV News photo/Bob Roller

10

million Christians in US at risk of mass deportation, says Catholic-Evangelical report

WASHINGTON (OSV News) – A joint project between organizations affiliated with different Christian churches found that a significant share of people impacted by the Trump administration's pursuit of what it has called "the largest deportation in U.S. history," are Christian. The report, a joint project of the National Association of Evangelicals, the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops' Migration and Refugee Services, the Center for the Study of Global Christianity at Gordon-Conwell Theological Seminary, and World Relief, found many of those vulnerable to deportation themselves or

those who have a family member vulnerable to deportation are Christians. According to demographic data as of the end of 2024, the report found, more than 10 million Christians living in the U.S. would be vulnerable to deportation under Trump administration policies implemented in 2025. Christians account for approximately 80% of all of those at risk of deportation. The Christians most at risk of deportation are Catholics, 61% of the total. At the same time, about 7 million Christians who are U.S. citizens live in the same household as someone at risk of deportation.

Pope sends papal almoner to deliver ambulances funded by US Catholics

VATICAN CITY (CNS) – Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, prefect of the Dicastery for the Service of Charity, was driving one of four ambulances donated to Ukraine with the help of U.S. Catholics. With Easter approaching, Pope Francis wanted to make a concrete gesture to show his closeness to "tormented Ukraine," the dicastery said in a press release April 7. The Pope wanted to send his papal almoner to Ukraine to deliver four ambulances that are fully equipped with medical instruments needed to save lives, it said. The ambulances, which bear the coat of arms of Vatican City State, "will be destined for war zones." The cardinal was assisted by three other drivers who came from Ukraine, the press release said. It will be the Polish cardinal's 10th mission to the war-torn nation as a special envoy sent by Pope Francis, and he was to remain in Ukraine for a few days "to be with the people so tried by the conflict, to pray with them and to be an expression of the Pope's closeness." The ambulances were purchased with dona-

tions provided by U.S. Catholics through Cross Catholic Outreach, Father Eloy Rojas, a missionary of mercy and hospital chaplain in the Archdiocese of Newark, New Jersey, told Catholic News Service March 28.

Cardinal Konrad Krajewski, the papal almoner, is pictured near a Marian icon during a visit with Ukrainian refugees in Lviv, Ukraine, in this March 10, 2022, file photo. —CNS photo/courtesy Ukrainian Catholic Church

By Jeff Morgan Word on Fire contributor

When Lumen Gentium (11) describes the family as “the domestic church,” it isn’t presenting a choice. The family is a domestic church, whether parents acknowledge it or not. And so they have an obligation to be careful and intentional about what they pass on to their children. Because they’re going to pass on something. And what children seem to be inheriting today is a lot of angst.

A recent Pew Research Center study reports that what parents want above all for their children is financial independence and a satisfying job. Graduating from college came in a distant third, and getting married and having children of their own pulled up the rear for a marginal few. Being moral, finding meaning in life, or practicing a religion did not appear on the list of priorities. With such external and materialistic aspirations for their children, it’s not surprising (though it’s a sad irony) that these same parents reported they are most worried about their children’s mental health. It’s also no wonder, at least according to a 2024 Surgeon General’s report, that parental anxiety is at a breaking point.

To alleviate all this stress, psychologist Darby Saxbe writes that “parents should ignore their children more often.” That makes for a snappy lead, but what Saxbe means is not so much that parents should ignore their children as decenter them. She argues that today’s frantic, child-centered style of helicopter parenting is “based on assumptions about what our children need to thrive that are not supported by evidence from . . most of human history.”

Until the last few decades, parents practiced what Saxbe calls “mindful underparenting,” which allows children to “spend lots of time with their parents” but usually not as the parents’ primary focus. “Sometimes bored, sometimes engaged, these kids spend much of their time observing adults doing adult things.” Saxbe explains that “your average benign-neglect day care is probably closer” to the average historical childhood experience than today’s overstimulated boy or girl at the center of attention. “Benign neglect” doesn’t sound great, but Saxbe argues that mindful underparenting respects a person’s unique developmental capacity to learn through observation how to enter adult life.

Institutions, programs, and activities can genuinely support what parents value but “almost never do they surpass or override” the parents themselves.

In other words, this is very bad news for parents who tell their children, “Do as I say, not as I do.” Children develop as they absorb the practices and beliefs of the people they love and trust the most. This is what Saxbe suggests, and it’s also what Catholic sociologist Christian Smith concluded after years of studying how parents pass on religion to their children.

“The good news,” Smith writes, “is that among all possible influences, parents

Mindful Underparenting

AND THE LOVE OF

children to have an open mind about the Yankees (nor should they). And so long as the child doesn’t grow up to hate baseball, he will almost certainly be a Red Sox fan himself as an adult and then probably pass that love onto his children. (I confess I was five years old when I watched my dad’s agony as Mookie Wilson’s dribble of a hit went through Bill Buckner’s legs at first base, costing the Red Sox game six of the 1986 World Series. I remember how sad I was to see Dad’s pain and how much I wanted the Red Sox to win game seven. I loved my dad and wanted him to be happy. And then eventually I discovered that his love of the Red Sox had become mine).

—Josh Applegate photo/Unsplash

exert far and away the greatest influence on their children’s religious outcomes.”

Smith recognizes that this “good news” might be surprising and a little stressful: “Stated differently, the bad news is that nearly all human responsibility for the religious trajectories of children’s lives falls on their parents’ shoulders.”

I grew up in a Christian home and have always been grateful to my parents for the everyday cadence of faith that characterized my childhood (Mom’s strategy to wake me up for school was often to burst into my room, turn the lights on, and declare, “This is the day that the Lord has made; let us rejoice and be glad in it!”).

But I also naively assumed that just as important as my parents’ faith in my own formation were things like my Christian elementary education, my years of Sunday school attendance, or my involvement with a vibrant youth group. My adolescent and teen years were very pious and very peer-focused, with a healthy dollop of hip, college-aged mentors.

But none of those things, Smith finds, come close to the influence of parents. Institutions, programs, and activities can genuinely support what parents value but “almost never do they surpass

or override” the parents themselves. It turns out that what mattered wasn’t so much that I was doing any of those things as much as that it was my parents who supported and arranged for them.

Smith knows that nothing is guaranteed. Children are the ones who will finally be responsible for their most important life choices. They aren’t Play-Doh. “But setting aside exceptional cases,” he writes, “what is nearly guaranteed is that American parents who are not especially committed, attentive, and intentional in passing on their faith will produce children who are less religious than they are, if they are religious at all.”

So what can parents do if they want to pass on their faith? They can practice a form of religious mindful underparenting. Or, as Smith explains, parents can “be themselves: believe and practice their own religion genuinely and faithfully.” This really is all parents can do, Smith concludes, and much of his advice has to do with how parents can effectively welcome their children into their own practice—how to “tote them along,” in Saxbe’s words.

This is easy to see in trivial things. Rabid Red Sox fans don’t raise their

For more important things like career choices, parents again exert tremendous influence. For a good chunk of my childhood, I wanted to be a lawyer because Dad was a lawyer (and because we watched a lot of Perry Mason). But while Dad was very good at what he did, he went through stretches where it was clear he didn’t love it. So when he would say, “Kids, don’t become a lawyer,” the counsel stuck. Meanwhile, as long as I can remember, Dad loved school. He especially loved colleges and universities and never missed a chance to drive through a nice campus, however out of the way it was on a typical road trip. He relished his own experience at Dartmouth and would often talk about his professors, his senior thesis on F. Scott Fitzgerald, and his frequent shenanigans. While Dad would discourage me from following in his lawyer footsteps, it’s clear to me that his love of higher education had a hand in the career I chose.

St. Augustine cautions us to be careful about the things we love because our love is like a weight. “Wherever I go,” he confesses, “my love is what brings me there” (Confessions, 13.9). Ideologically neutral parenting is a myth because none of us can be neutral about the things that matter most in life. Love is like cholesterol. It’s in us whether we like it or not, and if we don’t pay attention to it, it can lead us in deadly directions.

What Smith’s and Saxbe’s research indicates is that children are drawn into the gravitational force of what their parents love. Children love what their parents love because they love and trust their parents. But this also means that the gravitational force of what their parents love becomes a weight for the children as well. As they enter adulthood, they may find that weight cumbersome and choose to cast it off. But they may find it light, “authentic and life-giving,” as Smith writes, and when that is the case, “they just may be attracted to something similar.”

This article first appeared on Word on Fire’s Evangelization & Culture Online and appears at: https://www. wordonfire.org/articles/mindful-underparenting-and-the-love-of-faith/ Jeff Morgan, a contributor at Word on Fire, is also an associate professor of Theology at Saint Joseph’s College of Maine and writes twice a month on his Substack, “Classics and Crumbs.”

SCRIPTURE SEARCH®

Gospel for April 27, 2025

John 20: 19-31

Following is a word search based on the Gospel reading for Divine Mercy Sunday, Cycle C: Jesus appears to Thomas. The words can be found in all directions in the puzzle.

EVENING FOR FEAR STOOD PEACE SHOWED HIS SIDE SENT ME BREATHED HOLY SPIRIT FORGIVEN RETAIN DIDYMUS TWELVE NAILS FINGER NOT BELIEVE A WEEK MY GOD BLESSED WRITTEN HIS NAME

THE TWIN’S BELIEF

S U M Y D I D A N A N C

T L W K H I S S I D E H

O H I S N A M E E V E O

O P E A C E D S E O I L

D W M M N K S I L Y A I

E R T T W E L V E Y Y L

W I N G L E V E N I N G

O T E B B W N I A T E R

H T S T I A M Y G O D J

S E O D E H T A E R B O

N N T I R I P S Y L O H

F O R F E A R E G N I F © 2025 TRI-C-A Publications; tri-c-a-publications.com

Christ’s Resurrection calls us to share his love and feed his sheep

Third Sunday of Easter (C)

This Sunday’s second reading, taken from the Book of Revelation, presents the great canticle of heavenly praise: “to the One seated on the throne, and to the Lamb, be praise and honor, glory and might, for ever and ever!” (Revelation 5:13). Our Gospel reading this Third Sunday of Easter then emphasizes that the chief way we can offer God such fitting praise is through genuine, heartfelt love. This passage is taken from the Epilogue to St. John’s Gospel; written in a style closely tied to the main body of the text, it is likely an almost immediate supplement presenting an alternate tradition of a post-Resurrection appearance of Jesus set in Galilee rather than Jerusalem.

This Gospel reading is best understood as comprised of three distinct moments – the miraculous catch of fish, the meal on the shore, and the commissioning of Peter. The account of the miraculous catch of fish began on the shore of the Sea of Tiberias after the disciples had gone back to their original positions as fishermen. Peter and the others decided to go fishing one evening; they fished through the night and caught nothing. Just after daybreak, they saw a man walking along the shore. (Notice St. John’s contrast of light and darkness here – at night, in the darkness without Christ, the disciples had no success – only in the light, with Jesus, could they achieve their full potential.)

understand this meal as referring to the Eucharist. Significantly then, Jesus asks the disciples to bring some of the fish they themselves had caught to the meal.

Harkening back to the earlier call of the disciples not be to fishermen but fishers OF MEN, this scene suggests that Jesus was calling upon his disciples to bring the new Christians they had “caught” to share the Eucharist with them – a beautiful commissioning ceremony on the lakeshore. Many scholars have understood the number of fish – 153 – to be a sign of universality (St. Jerome, for example, relied on an ancient Greek zoology text and thought that 153 represented all the possible types of fish in the world) – the disciples were being called upon to bring all people to Christ’s love in the Eucharist.

The third scene of this Gospel began when Jesus turned his attention to Peter. Jesus asked Peter three times, “Simon, son of John, do you love me?” (John 21:15-17). Seated once again around a charcoal fire (just like the night when he denied even knowing Jesus) Peter had to respond three times, “Yes, Lord, you know that I love you” (John 21:15-17) –his triple confession atoning for his triple denial. Each time Peter responded, the Lord gave him a commission, “Feed my sheep.”

Senior Care at Home

They did not recognize that this man was Jesus. He spoke with them and then suggested that they cast their nets one more time. The Gospel recounts that they caught so many fish that they could hardly haul in the nets – just like the wine at Cana and the loaves and fishes, God provides for his people not frugally, but in abundance! The Beloved Disciple then recognized the man, crying out, “It is the Lord!” (John 21:7); because this disciple loved Jesus the most, he was the quickest to recognize him. On hearing it was Jesus, Peter reacted with his usual bravado – he put on his clothes and then jumped out of the boat, racing to shore to greet Jesus once again.

The second scene of this Gospel occurred when the disciples reached the shore. Jesus had already begun a charcoal fire and prepared a breakfast of bread and fish for them. Scripture scholars

The role of shepherding God’s people was assumed by God himself in the Old Testament (see Ezekiel 34), and that role had been taken over by Jesus during the course of his public ministry (see John 10:11); Jesus was now further delegating Peter to share in his role as Chief Shepherd of the People of God, an office requiring Peter to both love Jesus intensely and to show that love by caring intensely for Jesus’ people. Jesus closed this scene with a warning to Peter that the demands of his office would be great, leading eventually even to Peter’s own death on a cross – a triumph of love rendering to God the praise that is his due.

The three scenes of this Gospel text come together then as first, further testimony to the reality of Christ’s Resurrection; second, the commissioning of Jesus’ followers to continually testify to the supreme goodness and eternal significance of this Resurrection; and third, the setting of this commission within the context of the deep and abiding love between God and his people. As we move further into this Easter season, may we more fully realize that the “power and riches, wisdom and strength, honor and glory and blessing” (Revelation 5:12) so due to the eternal Lamb of God is rendered most fittingly in this life by the sharing of this love with the Lord and among his people.

Msgr. John N. Fell serves as Episcopal Vicar for the Vicariate for Clergy.

Cynthia D. Tellman, sister of diocesan Pontifical Missions staff

Cynthia D. Tellman, 69, of Whiting, passed away on March 11 at Community Medical Center, Toms River, from complications of lupus. She was surrounded by her loved ones when she passed.

Cynthia was the sister of diocesan staff members in the Office of Pontifical Missions –Mila Dionisio, assistant director, and Tess Kint, administrative assistant.

Born in Manila, Philippines, Cynthia was the eldest of four daughters of the late Faustino G. and Eugenia C. Dionisio. She immigrated to the United States with her parents and sisters in 1972 at the age of 17, eventually settling in Jersey City. A devoted daughter who epitomized the importance of family, she chose to postpone her nursing studies to enter the workforce to help with the family expenses. In 1976, Cynthia began working at Christ Hospital in Jersey City where she devoted her career to the well-being and care of others.

A beloved mother, she raised her three sons, Jason, Randy and RJ, in Edison and then Metuchen where she resided for many years. In 2009, she married her best friend and the love of her life, Kenneth Tellman. They later retired to Whiting. Together, they enjoyed traveling, vacationing most recently in France, Rome, the Italian countryside and Sweden.

Cynthia loved her family fiercely. She and her three sisters shared an inseparable bond as best friends and confidants. Cynthia was proudest of her sons, and her grandchildren were her pride and joy. Forever the jokester, she was notorious for pranking her sons, nieces and nephews, always making them laugh, usually at times when silence was definitely more appropriate.

Cynthia’s untimely passing will forever leave a void in the hearts of her family and all who knew her. She is survived by her husband, Kenneth of Whiting; her sons and daughters-in-law, Jason and Cheyenne Mojica of New Providence; Randolph and Cielo Mojica of Metuchen, and Raymond and Cheslene of Chula Vista, Calif.; her cherished grandchildren, Charles, Chloe, Ryan, Zoe, Liam, Owen, Russell and Kelsey; her devoted sisters Tess Kint and her husband, Edward, of Lopatcong; Clair Bautista and her husband, Rameses, of Myrtle Beach, S.C., and Mila “Miles” Dionisio, also of Lopatcong; her godchildren, Roderick, Frederick, Christian, Catherine and Jordan, as well as many nieces and nephews.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated March 14 in the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen.

To place your ad in the directory please call Mary at 732-529-7934

Patricia Queen, sister of diocesan assistant director of human resources

Patricia A. Queen, nee Nestor, age 68, of Fair Lawn, passed on April 13 quietly and peacefully with her loving husband, Jim, by her side. Patricia was the daughter of Art and Ann Nestor and grew up in Fair Lawn along with her six brothers and sisters: Richard, Michael, Mary, Robert, Kathleen and John. She is survived by them all except Mary who died March 17 in Florida.

Her sister Kathleen serves as diocesan assistant director, Office of Human Resources. Patricia attended St. Anne’s Parochial School and Paramus Catholic High School. Her noteworthy contributions to the cheerleading squad ultimately led to her induction in the Paramus Catholic Athletic Hall of Fame. She also developed a love of art during this time which became an integral part of her entire life regardless of occupation.

She graduated from Mercy Hurst College in Pennsylvania with a degree in Interior Design and earned her master’s in art therapy from the College of New Rochelle in the mid 80’s. By the early 90’s, her career shifted to both Art Therapy and Fitness.

She began working at Hackensack Medical in the children’s cancer ward and Hospice to help those kids express their feelings through art. She also continued her own artwork and many of her pieces found their way into galleries around the northeast. Additionally, she developed an extensive clientele for her personal training business. Eventually she moved to western Massachusetts where she walked into the Fire Place store and met Jim, the “Stove Guy” who, three years later, became her husband, and she became stepmother to Katie, John, Tiffany and Daniel.

In the early 2000’s, they forged a life in rural Worthington, Mass., and enjoyed doing everything outdoors. A few years after the passing of Patricia’s father, she and Jim settled back in the family home in Fair Lawn where Patricia eventually became the primary caregiver for her mother. She devoted herself to making sure Ann had everything she needed and wanted which enabled Ann to stay in her home the rest of her life.

Unfortunately, in the year 2000 (the summer of COVID), a spot was detected in one of her lungs. Surgery took place and scans were clear for two years. But the cancer ultimately returned and sadly prevailed.

Patricia deeply cherished family times together. Likewise, those who knew her will cherish their many moments with her, forever.

High School students lend a helping hand in Phillipsburg

By Tiffany Workman Special Contributor

On South Main St. in Phillipsburg, the Catholic Charities-run food pantry and thrift store are in the business of feeding the hungry and clothing those in need. The people who staff the operations, a mix of employees and volunteers, said that while their work is personally fulfilling, it also fulfills some of the corporal works of mercy.

Open five days a week, Monday through Friday, the thrift store and food pantry work hand in hand to assist individuals and families suffering from food insecurity, also outfitting them with essentials like bedding, weather-appropriate clothing and job interview attire.

Recently, the thrift store and food pantry had some special volunteers drop by from Immaculata High School, Somerville, to assist in carrying out these works of mercy.

“Catholic Charities was blessed to welcome eight students from Immaculata High School at the Social Service Center,” said Sister Michaelita Popovice, program director for Warren Basic Material Needs.

“I was impressed by their desire to help in

Every year Immaculata High School has a student retreat day for ninth-11th grades. While freshmen and sophomores were on Immaculata campus doing a day of spiritual development, juniors were at one of 19 different sites doing some kind of service work. They were able to choose preferences based on location and type of work. Two of the student groups chose the Catholic Charities Food Pantry and Thrift Store. Those students were Lorenzo Armao, Tyler Braun, Francis Campomanes, Darian Cirinelli, Tyler Kasper, Vito Marcogliese, James Roccanova, and Frederick Saraceno-Mitchell. They were accompanied by staff members James Dimino and Rich Grieshaber.

“I volunteered at the thrift store, although I didn’t directly work with any customers. They were very thankful for our help,” says Frederick.

Tasks that Immaculata students undertook within the Catholic Charities Thrift shop included sorting donations, general cleaning: washing windows, dusting, vacuuming as well as observing customers and their most-sought-after items during these challenging economic times. In the food pantry under the same roof, the students filled grocery carts full of non-perishable food items for the families who showed for their monthly appointments – despite a cold March morning with a biting wind and sleet which marked their morning three-hour shift.

“One of the families that came into the social service center were currently homeless,” Immaculata staff member Rich Grieshaber said. “It’s important for students to take what they’re learning in the theology classroom as juniors and both apply that and witness that during this mandatory

Top left, students from Immaculata High School meet with Sister Michaelita Popovice, program director for the Phillipsburg Social Service Center. Top right and bottom photos, students from Immaculata High School organize items in the food pantry and deliver items to a client’s car. —Immaculata High School photos

class day in the field of reality.”

If you are in need of assistance and can benefit from the help of the food pantry and thrift store – services offered through the Warren Basic Material Needs Program – please call the staff at 908859-5447. If you would like to make a donation, please visit 383 South Main St., Phillipsburg, where donations of usable and functional articles are graciously accepted during regular store hours. Clothing should be tear, rip and stain free. Small appliances must be in complete working condition with no needed repairs.

There are many ways to volunteer with Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen. We urge those who are inter-

ested to please visit https://ccdom.org/ volunteer for those opportunities. To volunteer specifically at the Phillipsburg thrift store and food pantry in Phillipsburg. Contact Maria Hunter at 732-387-1315 or mhunter@ccdom.org to learn more about how you can contribute. For more information about Catholic Charities Diocese of Metuchen, please visit ccdom.org. LIKE & Follow us on Facebook, Instagram, and X @ccdom1 to stay updated on upcoming events and ways we help clients get the services and assistance they need.

Workman is the Communications Specialist in the Office of Communications and Public Relations

May the road to Easter lead us to our authentic Christian life

When President Jimmy Carter died, the world lost a great man of faith. In some way, it seemed that as long as he was here with us, engaging in his selfless work for others, there was hope – for the world and for us. For me, his passing prompted a need to learn more than I knew about President Carter, so I shelved the book I had been reading and turned to writings about our former president.

I discovered that President Carter had a favorite modern author – Philip Yancey, and his favorite book of Yancey’s was “The Jesus I Never Knew.” He shared, “More than any religious book that I know, this presents Jesus Christ in vivid and practical terms as personifying the finest human traits of peace, justice, humility, benevolence, forgiveness and compassionate love. At the same time, his divinity is never forgotten.”

I smiled as I reflected on this, having read, enjoyed and been encouraged by this very same book myself. Of course, I was also happy to know I shared something meaningful with a man I greatly admired.

The jacket of Yancey’s book promised to uncover “a Jesus who is brilliant, creative, challenging, fearless, compassionate, unpredictable and ultimately satisfying …,” which it did. The one characteristic that wasn’t mentioned on the list is the one that makes all the others possible – authentic.

Jesus was authentic – he was accepting of himself and others, he embraced his brokenness, prayed through his fear and was devoted to the will of his Father, staying on his life’s course even though

he knew it meant both rejection by those he loved and a painful death. Jesus understood the value of being true to himself and he hoped for that trait in others.

It was the authenticity and honesty of Nathanael that Jesus affirmed in saying, “Here is a true child of Israel. There is no duplicity in him” – in spite of Nathanael’s insult of Jesus: “What good can come out of Nazareth?”

But Jesus saw into Nathanael’s heart, as he sees into ours, and what he saw was not a man who smiled and bowed or offered his hand in friendship only to sling insults and barbs when Jesus turned his back, but, rather, a man who lived with integrity and honesty, who had “no guile in him.”

Nathanael was like the blessed servant of whom St. Francis of Assisi spoke: “Blessed is the servant who loves his brother as much when he is sick and useless as when he is well and can be of service to him. And blessed is he who loves his brother as well when he is afar off as when he is by his side, and who would say nothing behind his back he might not, in love, say before his face.”

Personally, I often wonder what God sees when he looks into my heart, because another painful truth is that the easiest person to fool about our lapses in honesty and integrity is our self. It might have been that way for Jesus if he hadn’t spent so much time in prayer.

We live in a world where deceit is the norm and honesty is rare. We are encouraged to be and to do whatever it takes to be successful, to be noticed, to be admired, to be loved, when, in truth, we should strive only to be and do whatever it takes to live the Gospel.

Because this is not a simple task, Lent has served as a time of honing and discovering, through prayer, fasting and times of solitude, so we can be better assured that our authentic self is prepared to embrace our Risen Lord at Easter.

“We must all be on our guard against pride and empty boasting and beware of worldly or natural wisdom. A worldly spirit loves to talk a lot but do nothing, striving for the exterior signs of holiness that people can see, with no desire for true piety and interior holiness of spirit.”

— Pisit Heng photo/Unsplash

~ St. Francis of Assisi

The beauty of the Chrism Mass

Continued from page 3 —Hal Brown photos

By Jeannette Martino Land Special Contributor

Whether we’re clergy or laity, married or single, male or female, young or old, working or retired, healthy or sick, wealthy or poor … God calls us all to be faithful in our particular state in life.

Among other characteristics, one who is faithful is found to be dependable, conscientious, committed to others, doesn’t give up in times of difficulty and hardship, fulfills duties and keeps promises, and remains true to him/herself and to God.

St. Joseph is a model of faithfulness par excellence.

In Pope Leo XIII’s 1889 Encyclical, Quanquam Pluries, which designated March 19 as the Feast of Saint Joseph, the Holy Father wrote: “Scripture says little about Joseph, other than that he was ‘just,’ that is, a person who was virtuous in every way (kept the Law).

His importance is recognized by the stupendous trust given to him as Guardian of the Christ Child and Spouse of the Mother of God. He was not a man of words but of deeds.” In the Bible, Joseph is portrayed as a man of silence, a man of a profound interior life, a humble Jew who was faithful to his God and to his family.

In times of difficulty, Joseph turned to God in holy silence and prayer and waited for an answer. Joseph accepted, with unwavering trust and quiet obedience, whatever God asked of him. Although he didn’t understand what the outcome might be, like Mary, he responded positively to the directives given in dreams by angels sent to guide him.

Joseph was recognized as both the spiritual and legal head of his household. Because of his complete fidelity to his vo-

cation as spouse of Mary and foster father of Jesus, Joseph stands out as a model for husbands and fathers. He fed, protected, and sheltered his family, and with fatherly care, taught Jesus the skills of his trade. Recognizing Joseph’s role as foster father of Jesus, Pope Francis added five words to be inserted after the Eucharistic Prayer – “with blessed Joseph, her spouse,” to reflect the Church’s growing interest in “fatherly care.”

At his inaugural Mass, Pope Francis said, “St. Joseph appears as a strong and courageous man, a working man, yet in his heart we see great tenderness, which is not the virtue of the weak, but rather a sign of strength of spirit and a capacity for concern, for compassion, for genuine openness to others, for love."

Now, more than ever, as Pope Leo XIII concluded in his encyclical, “What the world needs is faithful and devoted men like St. Joseph; men who stick to their job, fulfill their duty and measure up to their responsibility.” Obviously, this applies to women and children as well, for faithful people reflect God’s faithfulness.

Find us faithful, Lord!

Jeanette Martino Land has been a freelance Christian writer since 1990 and has been published by numerous publications, including Ligouri Publications.

St. Joseph is depicted in a stained-glass window in the motherhouse of the Sisters of St. Joseph of Brentwood, N.Y., on March 19, 2025, the feast of St. Joseph. International congregations of the Sisters of St. Joseph are celebrating the 375th anniversary of their founding in Le Puy, France. The jubilee year began on Oct. 15, 2024, Founders' Day, and concludes Oct. 15, 2025. —OSV News photo/ Gregory A. Shemitz

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LOYOLA JESUIT CENTER

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

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VILLA

established as Certified Autism Center

The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital has been recognized as a Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) by The International Board of Credentialing and Continuing Education Standards (IBCCES). This designation is awarded to organizations whose staff have undergone autism-specific training to equip them with the supportive skills and resources to provide the best experience possible to every child that visits the hospital.

Through this inclusive training for the entire pediatric staff, The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital aims to create a more positive and therapeutic experience for all patients with autism and sensory disorders, making its pediatric healthcare services more accessible and less intimidating for children with autism.

The training focuses on understanding the unique communication styles, sensory sensitivities, and behavioral cues that autistic children may exhibit. By learning how to recognize and respond to these specific needs, the staff can tailor their approach to reduce potential sources of stress for the child. This may involve using clear, direct communication, providing visual supports, offering

sensory accommodations, and employing calming techniques when necessary.

Some of the techniques incorporated into the hospital’s approach include providing patients with sensory items such as fidget toys for self-regulation, sunglasses for light sensitivities, and sound-cancelling headphones to minimize the impact of auditory stimuli. The hospital will soon offer communication boards and a mobile sensory station that will provide light and touch items.

“Achieving the status of a Certified Autism Center™ reflects Saint Peter’s commitment to providing high quality, inclusive care to every pediatric patient. We strive to meet the unique needs of children with autism and their families by fostering an environment where they feel supported and understood, particularly in potentially more challenging and stressful situations such as when seeking emergency medical care,” said Leslie D. Hirsch, FACHE, president and CEO, Saint Peter’s Healthcare System, parent company of The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital.

In addition to supporting the child, the training also emphasizes the importance of understanding the parent’s perspective. Parents of children with autism often ex-

Clinical staff at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital are trained to interact with pediatric patients with autism so they have a better experience. Picture from left to right are: Jacqueline Maloney, nurse manager, Pediatric Department, PICU, and Pediatric Emergency Room; Nikki Schellinck, child life therapist, Child Life Department, and lIris Kwak, music therapist, Child Life Department, all at The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital. —Courtesy photo

perience heightened anxiety during medical visits, especially when they feel their child’s needs may not be fully understood or met. By ensuring that clinical staff are compassionate and well-versed in the best practices for working with children with autism, the hospital creates an environment where both the child and parent feel heard, respected, and supported.

Ethel Cole from North Brunswick is the mother of a 15-year-old son, Joel, who was diagnosed with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) after he turned 3. Joel has visited The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s for various therapies over the years. Since the diagnosis, Cole has worked tirelessly to navigate the challenges of finding healthcare providers who understand the unique needs of children with autism.

“My son is now a vivacious teenager with an awesome personality,” said Cole. “Every child deserves an environment where they feel safe and understood. Knowing that Saint Peter’s staff is trained to understand and support children like my son means the world to me. It alleviates so much of the anxiety we both face during hospital visits.”

As the parent of a child with ASD, Cole is thrilled to see that the hospital has

earned accreditation as a Certified Autism Center™, ensuring that the pediatric staff are trained to interact with children like Joel.

“Any parent knows that hospital visits can be stressful and scary. It’s especially daunting when your child has autism and you’re unsure if they’ll be cared for in a way that makes them feel heard,” said Cole.

“As healthcare providers, we understand how important it is for parents to feel confident that their children will be cared for in the best possible way,” said Pam Harmon, director, Women and Children’s Division, The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital. “With this certification, we demonstrate that our pediatric healthcare providers have the specialized training and tools to assist children with autism and other sensory issues with compassion and expertise.”

“This certification highlights the dedication of The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital to provide exceptional care to every child, especially autistic and sensory-sensitive patients,” said Myron Pincomb, IBCCES board chairman. “IBCCES is proud to designate the children’s hospital as a Certified Autism Center™ and recognize their ongoing efforts to create inclusive and accessible care.”

Since 2001, IBCCES has been the leader in autism, neurodiversity, and cognitive training and certification for healthcare, education, and corporate professionals around the globe. IBCCES created programs specifically for hospitals, emergency rooms, and other medical professionals to better support this growing but underserved part of the community. IBCCES is the only credentialing board offering these types of programs, which include training from subject matter experts and autistic self-advocates, as well as long-term support, continuous learning, and more.

IBCCES also created CertifiedAutismCenter.com, a free online resource for parents that lists certified locations and professionals. Each organization listed on the site has met Certified Autism Center™ (CAC) requirements.

To learn more about The Children’s Hospital at Saint Peter’s University Hospital, please visit saintpetershcs.com/ spchildrenshospital.

Mount Saint Mary mock trial team reaches regional finals in historic season

By Greg Johnson, Correspondent

Whether a student is an aspiring attorney or simply looking for an engaging extracurricular activity, many life skills can come from mock trial.

Enhance your public speaking. Think on your feet. Devise cogent arguments. These are just a few of the exercises that prepare students for challenges that arise in the working world. Few mastered them better this past winter than Mount Saint Mary Academy’s mock trial team, which advanced to the regional finals as one of the last six teams standing in New Jersey.

“It teaches you how to be confident in what you say, how to choose your words with care,” the Mount’s mock trial advisor Danielle Lovallo said. “The confidence that I’ve seen these kids grow into over the years is a lot. I was very privileged to have most of these girls from this year’s team as sophomores, and they stuck with it. Just seeing them go from being terrified sitting in the witness stand and big eyes, to completely turning the tables on the cross-examining attorney is just immensely rewarding.”

There were 25 Legal Lions this season: four attorneys, six witnesses and 15 understudies/jurors. A single competition runs for about two hours or less, where one school has two attorneys and three witnesses for either plaintiff/prosecution or defense.

There are subtle differences with the rules of mock trial, but it simulates real court cases where attorneys ask questions and respond to objections, while witnesses issue statements on direct examination. Jurors render a verdict, but it doesn’t influence the competition because naturally they can’t be unbiased voters.

“Every year we’ve had a lot of people join, but this year, all the witnesses and attorneys were people that were sort of mock trial veterans and had done it for at least a year,” said senior Mary Catherine King, who played an attorney role.

“We were all really experienced. But then also a lot of us were seniors, and since we all had that in common and we were all friends, it definitely made everything seem more cohesive and sort of conversational between the witnesses and attorneys. I think that definitely helped us.”

The state’s 216 high school teams all argue the same case topic, which alternates each year between criminal and civil. This season was a civil case involving the death of a champion show dog who received a flea treatment, and the plaintiff was suing for financial damages based on what the dog would have allegedly earned.

Mount Saint Mary’s began working on the case in October and won competitions against four schools to seize the Somerset County championship in

house. Then the New Jersey Law Center hosted regionals, where the Mount defeated Westfield and Hunterdon Central but did not advance past the finals.

Still, this year marked the Legal Lions’ second county title in three years and only the second time in school history that the team made the regional finals.

“Mock trial is kind of like gymnastics where each judge holds up a different score and has their own perceptions. There are two judges who score each trial,” Lovallo said. “It’s all subjective, so that’s why one of the things we try to stress with the girls is that you have to try to do everything as best you can, because you can’t let yourself get complacent … you have to look out for what the judges are responding to. You really have to be firing on all cylinders.”

Sometimes the difference between winning and losing is your closing argument, which King certainly delivered in the first round of regionals with what Lovallo described as “the performance of her mock trial career.”

“Closing is always my favorite part because I just get to stand up for eight minutes and no one can interrupt me, versus questions, they can object to me,” King said. “I just remember hearing the other side say one thing, and I was like, ‘I know I can use that and tear it to shreds in my closing.’ It’s just the best feeling saying that, and then hearing and feeling everyone else’s reactions when I said it.”

King was a witness when she started in mock trial as a freshman and competitions were held over Zoom. She became an attorney in her sophomore year when in-person mock trial resumed. She felt more in control in that role and gained confidence in the courtroom.

the Mount’s first competition of the season as the plaintiff against the defense of Gill St. Bernard’s.

“It’s helped me with a lot of life skills,” said King, whose goal is to eventually attend law school. “The most obvious one is public speaking, but also thinking on my feet, and even writing, I feel like I’ve gotten so much better because I can just form an argument.”

King learned to play both sides of this year’s case when one of Mount Saint Mary’s defense attorneys got sick, and she stepped up in that role during the regional semifinals.

The speaking roles of attorney and witness are best for students who can offer a higher time commitment. Being passionate about acting or debating can also help the team score well.

“I think that something that’s always been a strength of our team, which I think goes to our coaches mostly, is how formal and polished we are when talking to the judges,” King said. “I think that definitely gains us a lot of points that other teams might not think is that important.”

Lovallo has been at the helm of the team for six seasons, while Elizabeth A. Weiler, Esq., has been the attorney coach for 17 years to offer valuable opinions on the case and courtroom rules.

“We do a number of scrimmages throughout the season to really refine our case, test what we’ve got against other schools and see if our case is really as strong as we think,” Lovallo said. “You don’t know who’s going to object to what, or what their reasoning is going to be. You try to prepare for every objection you could get. But sometimes it just kind of comes at you from left field, and you have to just adapt.”

Pictured left to right, Mary Catherine King, Jessica Curran, Grace Puglisi, Sophia Varas, Shelby Carmant, Isabella Law, Nahi Hunter, Olivia Altobelli, Zoe Hunter, Alexandra Ayad, Abigail Thein, Emily Miller, Victoria Virga and Gabriella Volpicelli represent Mount Saint Mary’s mock trial team at the New Jersey Law Center in New Brunswick. —Danielle Lovallo photo

St. Joe’s wrestling produces two medal winners at state championships for first time

offense into his own offense, which makes it difficult to score points on him.

Whitford won his fifth-place match in the state championships on a 4-1 decision.

“Tyler is going to wear you down,” Carbone said. “If you saw Tyler’s face at the end of Atlantic City, he had cuts all over his face. He had a bruise underneath his eye, the back of his neck had claw marks from people hand fighting with him, because he embraces that. He loves the physicality.”

Schwarz, on the other hand, took a more significant jump in weight classes over the last two years from 126 to 157, partly because he grew exponentially taller by the end of his freshman year.

But Schwarz is a different type of wrestler than Whitford, using flashy creativity to create offense as he sees it.

“Morgan’s technique is very good,” Carbone said. “He’s constantly moving, constantly using misdirection, and his leverage points are always very, very good.”

Wrestlers come to St. Joe’s with their own styles that they have developed over time. The coaches evaluate the areas where they are strong and where they need work in order to evolve.

Whitford and Schwarz both struggled on bottom as freshmen, so Carbone’s staff addressed that in the offseason to help them ascend toward their potential.

“We do like to have a system, but some guys are going to pick up different parts of the system than others,” Carbone said. “Morgan likes a lot of what we do with our setups and attacks to the legs, where Tyler is going to like a lot more of what we do out of front head-

By Greg Johnson, Correspondent

Mike Carbone thinks back to when he spearheaded the resurrection of the Saint Joseph High School wrestling program seven years ago. While interviewing to become the head coach, he had one non-negotiable request: The Falcons needed to have their own room to train in.

Sustained success at a school that didn’t have a wrestling team in 26 years would require resources and commitment. And when success eventually came, he wanted his wrestlers to have a home where they could look up and see their names etched on banners forever.

That process reached a historic moment on March 8 at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City when St. Joe’s juniors Tyler Whitford and Morgan Schwarz took fifth and sixth place in their respective weight classes, giving the school two medal winners at the state championships for the first time in history.

“Getting Tyler and Morgan on the podium at the same time was a really big accomplishment for us,” Carbone said.

In the early days of wrestling at St. Joe’s, the only Falcon to medal was Craig Belunes with a third-place finish in 1977. Under Carbone’s leadership, Nico Calello took third in 2021 and then Gio Alejandro was a runner-up in 2023.

To now have multiple wrestlers reaching an elite status speaks to not

only their hard work, but the program’s growth where more and more kids want to train at a top high school facility under Carbone and his well-respected staff.

“Our room is definitely one of the top rooms in the state, just how it looks and the size of it,” Carbone said. “St. Joe’s really did a good job with their architectural planning of that room and how they made it kind of its own separate entity. It came out really, really nice.”

Carbone’s assistants are Joe Liquori, who worked with him for six years at Woodbridge High, and former Woodbridge wrestlers Allan Jordan and Bryan McLaughlin, who both wrestled in college, as well as other volunteers with wrestling experience.

“The kids like it because they’re close to their age,” Carbone said. “They can get close to them and they feel good about rolling around with these types of guys because they trust them. They’ve seen recent success at the D1, D2 and D3 (college) levels.”

Building trust is crucial to get kids to wrestle as hard as they can for you, Carbone notes, and that’s exactly what Whitford and Schwarz did on their unique journeys to Atlantic City.

Whitford moved up one weight class from 157 pounds as a sophomore to 165 this season. He is known as a blue-collar fighter who really uses his hands to play great defense by turning his opponent’s

locks. And both those things fit into the system. It’s just what guy is gonna excel in one spot versus another. So they both are great wrestlers, and they’re doing great things.”

As for the entire program, Carbone says he attracts talented wrestlers through word of mouth – not his own recruiting, which would be too time-consuming –because kids are hearing positive feedback on what is transpiring at the school.

St. Joe’s has won its division five years in a row, the Greater Middlesex County Tournament three years in a row, and its district tournament four years in a row.

Perhaps the best is yet to come, especially with a new weight room at the school coming soon. Carbone led the charge for that by discussing ways to fundraise it, but they are still waiting on permits from Metuchen.

“That is going to be a very nice facility once we get everything moving here.” Carbone said. “A weight room is great for all athletes, not just some. So I definitely think that that’s a spot where we’re gonna be solid. I think it’s gonna bring so much to the school, value-wise.”

At left, St. Joe’s junior Morgan Schwarz, top, grapples with Piscataway junior Sean Love in their fifth-place match of the 157-pound weight class on March 8 at the state championships in Atlantic City.

Below, St. Joe’s junior Tyler Whitford, top, reacts after defeating St. John Vianney senior Cole Stangle in their fifth-place match of the 165-pound weight class on March 8 at the state championships in Atlantic City.

—Courtesy photos

Sanyah Queen caps off phenomenal wrestling at St. Thomas Aquinas with state championship

By Greg Johnson

wrestling career, Sanyah Queen felt no pressure. It was all about having fun, having faith, and most of all, having be lief in herself.

for the last four years with a 104-13 re cord, yet up until March 8, a state cham pionship eluded her. She felt as though in the rare instances where she lost, too much doubt crept inside her head.

nior had a chance to seize the biggest prize at Boardwalk Hall in Atlantic City, Queen harnessed all her lessons through adversity and rolled to a 12-6 victory in the 138-pound title bout.

my last three years compared to this year was my mentality,” Queen said. “I’ve always prayed to the Lord that I do win, but if I don’t believe in myself, and if I don’t believe in the prayers that I pray, there’s no point in doing it. So one of the main things that I did was believe in my self, and then believe in what my coaches are telling me.”

Conference Tournament champion and a three-time regional champion, Queen had always come tantalizingly close to standing atop the podium at the state championships. She took fifth place at 126 pounds as a freshman, second place at 145 pounds as a sophomore, and fourth place at 145 pounds last year.

In securing a dominant decision over Newton’s Eva Berry, Queen simply planned to be the best version of herself. With everything on the line, she wanted to be the aggressor in going for takedowns and not fixating on defending them.

She prefers not to watch film of her opponent. She focuses on her own abilities because she likes to be an unpredictable wrestler, and competing in so many high school matches and national events has made her versatile on the mat.

“My game plan for any match that I go into, I don’t necessarily look at them and then expect something, because I feel like at any given moment, if someone wants to switch up their style, they could,” Queen said. “Especially for coaches, (if they) tell them what I’m going to do, they can switch up and do something different. So adjusting midmatch, being able to adapt to a different wrestler, I think that definitely helped me in my last match.”

Queen, an Elizabeth native, grew

up idolizing her brother, Jasiah, who is two years older and recently competed at the NCAA Championships for Drexel University.

Queen remembers asking her father around the age of eight if she could wrestle, but he prohibited her from competing against boys as the sport didn’t exist for girls at the time. She tried out gymnastics for a year, then did cheerleading for a few years and even soccer for a year.

When she enrolled at Elizabeth High, she competed in both wrestling and volleyball but ultimately chose strictly wrestling after a volleyball injury required surgery on her knee. Seeking a bigger challenge on the mat entering her sophomore year, she transferred to St. Thomas Aquinas to develop under coaches Landon Kearns and Gabriel Roman.

Wrestling has always come naturally to Queen, but as someone who never wrestled until a tournament two months before high school, she knew she had

techniques to learn.

“I wasn’t really a shooter, so I had to learn how to take shots correctly and finish my shots and not just hold on to a leg,” Queen said. “I definitely think that I did have to put in some work, but the basic things, like snapping down or sprawling, I kind of got right off the bat, because I was watching it, so I knew the concept of what I had to do. It was just doing it that really I needed to work on.”

Queen became so dedicated to wrestling that this past year that she has woken up 4 a.m. to practice with her dad at their wrestling room at home. Nutritionally, she monitors her calories to maintain the correct weight and stays hydrated to give herself plenty of energy.

Queen says Roman is like a “second father” with his support at her matches even though he no longer coaches for St. Thomas Aquinas. She also accredits one of the school’s current coaches, Bob Murphy, for teaching her how to

aggressively circle in and shoot out her opponents.

Her hard work culminated this winter with a nearly perfect 32-2 record on the mat. She became only the second wrestler in St. Thomas Aquinas history – boys or girls – to win a state championship after Apryl Coffman did it in 2023.

After an unforgettable journey with the Trojans, Queen is set to wrestle for Western New England University next year.

“Wrestling for STA was really a great experience for me,” Queen said. “I was able to grow my connection with God. I pray every day now, I read the Bible every day now. I think that’s brought me a long way. I believe in my prayers now and believe in what I was sent here to do, so I think my connection with God and wrestling definitely helped me grow and helped me become the wrestler that I am today. I think making the move to STA was one of the best decisions that I could have ever done, especially for my career.”

St. Thomas Aquinas senior Sanyah Queen, top, grapples with Newton junior Eva Berry in their championship match of the 138-pound weight class on March 8 at the state championships in Atlantic City. —Mark Zimmaro photo

Crossword Puzzle

“Take and ___; this is my body.” (Mt 26:26)

A Doctor of the

Lamb’s penname

Letters some people sport on jewelry

Listen to

with Timothy, he was a disciple of

nest

50 Type of dress 51 “…___ to anger, abounding in mercy.” (Ps 103:8)

52 60s record player 53 In the thick of it 54 Litigious type 55 Pilate ordered this above the cross (abbr.)

57 13th letter of the Hebrew alphabet

58 Lennon’s Yoko

Answers can be found on page 47

AThe answer to this question would depend on exactly what you mean by “a difficult relationship” or even the term “the Church.” But the short answer is that yes, there have been many canonized saints who were treated very badly by Church leaders of their day, through no fault of their own.

To give just a few examples: St. Joan of Arc was condemned as a heretic in a clearly biased and politically motivated ecclesiastical trial and was subsequently burned at the stake; St. John of the Cross was imprisoned and regularly beaten by the members of his own religious community due to his work for the reform of the Carmelite Order; St. Mary MacKillop of Australia was unjustly excommunicated in retaliation for her reporting child abuse; and St. Padre Pio was for a time forbidden from exercising public priestly ministry due to concerns about his extraordinary mystical gifts, notably his stigmata (i.e., his bearing of the five wounds of Christ on his own body).

And to put things into perspective, we only know about these and other saints’ stories of “friendly fire” persecution because they have been formally canonized. It’s likely that there are other holy but less famous Catholics throughout history –who would be “saints” in the strict technical sense of any person who is actually in heaven – who endured similar sufferings.

This can be one of the most difficult scenarios for a faithful Catholic to wrap their mind around. Unlike other organizations, the Church as a visible institution was founded by Jesus himself and exists to continue his saving mission in the world until the end of time. We believe that the Church is holy. Naturally, the darker

chapters in the lives of these saints can prompt the question of how the Church could apparently hurt her own members.

This is where it becomes important to make some distinctions. “The Church” as the people of God and the spotless bride of Christ does not hurt people. Rather, sinful human beings within the Church do. While this can still be a difficult truth, in some ways it should not be surprising. After all, during his Passion and death Jesus himself was denied and abandoned by his own apostles, who would go on to become the Church’s very first bishops.

Of course, this in no way excuses bad behavior on the part of bishops, religious superiors or anyone else who represents the Church in the course of their ministry. We should keep in mind that the canonized

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.

St. Joan of Arc is depicted in a stainedglass window at Immaculate Conception Church in Westhampton Beach, N.Y. —OSV News photo/Gregory A. Shemitz

saints who were persecuted by the Church did not become saints because they were naïve to this reality of fallen human nature or because they cheerfully kept up a “party line” they knew to be false.

Instead, these men and women were saints because of their clarity of spiritual insight, which allowed them to know and love the Church for what it truly is, and because of their courageous fidelity and patience under trials from those in the Church who ought to have behaved in a way befitting their vocation but failed to do so.

Pope Benedict XVI discussed this dynamic in his General Audience of Jan. 26, 2011, wherein he reflects on the life and witness of St. Joan of Arc: “In Jesus Joan contemplated the whole reality of the Church, the ‘Church triumphant’ of Heaven, as well as the ‘Church militant’ on earth. According to her words, ‘About Jesus Christ and the Church, I simply know they’re just one thing,’ this affirmation, cited in the Catechism of the Catholic Church (n. 795), has a truly heroic character in the context of [her] Trial of Condemnation, before her judges, men of the Church who were persecuting and condemning her. In the Love of Jesus Joan found the strength to love the Church to the very end, even at the moment she was sentenced.”

Diocesan Youth garner Free Throw trophies

Continued from page 30

the court: she had won the nine-year-old girls’ title last year.

Cristian Ferrer of Milltown was successful in 23 of his 25 attempts to win the 11-year-old boys’ trophy; he had topped all opponents two years ago to win the nine-year-old boys’ trophy with a perfect 25 out of 25 attempts. Rounding out the victorious Metuchen Diocese sports dynasty were two boys’ runs: 12-year-old Lucas Monzon of Flemington with 19 out of 25 and 14-year-old Crosby DeCoster of Califon with sheer perfection: 25 attempts, 25 swishes.

Beginning this winter, scores of young competitors ages nine to 14 had competed at numerous contests hosted by their local Knights of Columbus councils where each made 25 attempts to sink

a basketball from the foul line. The field of successful hoopsters was winnowed further during the diocesan-level finals in March, as one boy and one girl from each age group were chosen to represent the Diocese of Metuchen and compete against four others in their age/gender category, one from each of New Jersey’s five Catholic (arch)dioceses.

Now in its 53rd year, the Knights’ Free Throw Tournament is one of their most successful international youth activities. The Catholic fraternal organization’s website explained, “Councils sponsor the tournament to provide an athletic outlet and encourage the values of sportsmanship and healthy competition.”

To see photos of all the winners, check out the Catholic Spirit NJ Facebook page.

Book of the Month

Young people, tech lovers connect with soon-to-be-St. Carlo Acutis

By Zoey Maraist, OSV News

The newly canonized Carlo Acutis has become one of the most well-known figures of holiness in modern times. Since his death in 2006 at the age of 15, people across the world have been captivated by Carlo’s life and personality and sought his intercession. His youthful zeal and devotion to the Eucharist are well documented, and many people in his life attest to his personal holiness and fearlessness in talking about his faith and love for Jesus.

For the first time, Carlo’s simple and insightful words have been collected into one book. Carlo’s Simple Wisdom demonstrates that it is possible even today to live in harmony with the will of God. Carlo’s life was a race, fast and brief. He has reached the goal he longed for, and he wants nothing more for us than to join him in heaven. Carlo said, “Everyone is born as an original, but many people end up dying as photocopies.” Unique, unrepeatable, and loved in a singular way by God, each of us is one of a kind. We risk becoming photocopies when we depart from the path Jesus has laid out for us. The truth that Carlo recalled, “God is always with us,” is of utmost importance. We must become “intimate friends of Christ.” Carlo has given us many words of hope to hold onto as we aspire to pursue holiness as he did.

TOLEDO, Ohio (OSV News) – Inside a century-old church in Toledo, Ohio, is a decidedly newer statue of a soonto-be-saint. The image of Blessed Carlo Acutis depicts the Italian teenager with his laptop, his rosary, a camera, a soccer ball and his pet dog. Blessed Carlo was a computer programer and Eucharist devotee who died of cancer in 2006 at age 15. Young people are especially drawn to Blessed Carlo, who will be canonized April 27. Cristian Parga said he and his classmates were researching confirmation saints last year when Blessed Carlo caught his eye. “I think just his kindness – seeing how young he was and so devot-

ed to God and helping others – made me kind of want to do the same,” said Parga, now a freshman at St. Francis de Sales School in Toledo. “That really made me want to make something with my class so everybody else could learn about him.”

Miguel Garcia, 27, a Milwaukee-based missionary for Iskali, a ministry geared toward young Latinos, first learned about Blessed Carlo when he saw a picture of him dressed in a Spider-Man costume. “I always felt like I never connected with a saint,” he said. “When I heard about Blessed Carlo, it was like I had a friend in heaven, like somebody was representing me.”

Zoey Maraist writes for OSV News from Virginia.

A boy kneels in prayer before an image of Blessed Carlo Acutis during Eucharistic adoration April 7, 2022, at St. Rita of Cascia Church in the South Bronx, N.Y. In the Diocese of Madison, Wis., a virtual Catholic high school named for the teen, Blessed Carlo Acutis Academy, begins its second year of online learning Aug. 21, 2023.

—CNS photo/Gregory A. Shemitz

By John Mulderig, OSV News

The Chosen: Last Supper - Part 1

NEW YORK (OSV News) – Beginning with its 2017 pilot episode and a first full season that kicked off in 2019, showrunner Dallas Jenkins’ Gospel-based TV series “The Chosen” has gained a wide following. Viewers, moreover, have proved willing to devote their money as well as their attention to the successfully crowdfunded production.

Newcomers to the saga who are introduced to it by way of “The Chosen: Last Supper - Part 1” (Fathom), the theatrical release of the first two episodes of the program’s fifth season, will easily recognize its appeal. They may be left a little at sea, however, by the fact no effort is made on their behalf to identify clearly all the characters in the large cast.

Still, anyone familiar with Scripture will be able to follow the basic plot. This is a recounting of the early events of Holy Week, beginning with the triumphal entry of Jesus (Jonathan Roumie) into Jerusalem and concluding with his cleansing of the Temple.

The first of these developments leaves both the Roman governor, Pontius Pilate (Andrew James Allen), and the Jewish leaders largely subservient to him, headed by Caiaphas the high priest (Richard Fancy), uncertain how to react to Jesus’ growing popularity. As for the apostles, they’re confused by their master’s warnings of sorrow to come.

Jenkins and his collaborators continue to provide believable human interaction in the subplots with

which they flesh out the biblical account. A particularly moving scene finds Jesus, out for a walk on his own, drawn into the joyous wedding feast of two strangers, where he downplays the acclaim of the guests once he’s recognized but warmly blesses the bride and groom.

In keeping with the standard set by the show as a whole, this portion of it represents unusually sophisticated religious entertainment. Yet some mature moments put this big-screen compilation out of bounds for kids.

In fact, some vague discussion of the supposedly excessive requirements of Jewish ritual purity could be regarded as undermining, perhaps inadvertently, the appropriate demands of Christian morality. Although other conclusions can be drawn from the exchange, along with harsh images of the future destruction of the Holy City, it’s not appropriate for impressionable moviegoers.

For grown-ups and older teens, by contrast, this journey through the prelude to the Passion constitutes thoughtful and impressive Lenten fare. While watching it is no penance, it can be considered not only an enjoyable but a spiritually enriching way to prepare for Easter.

The film contains brief stylized but grim violence as well as sexual references and humor. The OSV News classification is A-II – adults and adolescents. Not rated by the Motion Picture Association.

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

‘The Resurrection of the Christ’ to begin filming The Last Supper

By Kurt Jensen, OSV News

(OSV News) – Despite the considerable amount of controversy that surrounded it, including allegations of anti-Semitism, Mel Gibson’s 2004 biblical drama “The Passion of the Christ” was sufficiently popular that it took in more than $612 million at the box office. In fact, it remained the highest grossing R-rated film domestically for over 20 years.

More than two decades later, a sequel, “The Resurrection of the Christ,” is slated to start filming in August at Rome’s Cinecitta Studios. The film’s release is expected in 2026.

Catholic actor Jim Caviezel, whose portrayal of Jesus in the first movie made him not only a star but something of an enduring cultural icon, will reprise the role of the Savior. In a January interview with podcaster Joe Rogan, Gibson said he would rely on digital technology for the “de-aging” of Cavaziel, who will turn 57 in late September.

Maia Morgenstern is expected to re turn as the Virgin Mary. And Francesco De Vito will once again be seen as St. Peter.

Details of the script, on which Gibson has collaborated with his brother, Donal, and screenwriter Randall Wallace, who penned Gibson’s 1995 hit “Braveheart,” have not been disclosed. But Gibson told Rogan that the follow-up would have a much broader historical sweep than the original, from “the fall of the angels to the death of the last apostle.”

Such a comprehensive outlook

may help to address one of the primary criticisms to which “The Passion of the Christ” was subjected, namely an excessively narrow focus. The movie dealt almost exclusively with the last 12 hours of Jesus’ earthly life, from the Garden of Gethsemane to his burial.

As a result, noted Gerri Pare and David DiCerto in their joint review for the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ former Office for Film and Broadcasting, “Gibson has, perhaps, muted Christ’s teachings, making it difficult for viewers unfamiliar with the New Testament and the era’s historical milieu to contextualize the circumstances leading up to Jesus’ arrest.”

“And,” they continued, “though, for Christians, the Passion is the central event in the history of salvation, the ‘how’ of Christ’s death is lingered on at the expense of the ‘why?’”

Richard A. Blake, writing in the national Jesuit magazine America, was blunter in his assessment. Instead of “a tragic hero,” with whom he could sympathize, Blake characterized Cavaziel’s Jesus – presumably with reference to the dramatization’s extended and brutally realistic scourging sequence – as “a pathetic punching bag.”

The post-Resurrection accounts included in the New Testament were only hinted at by a memorable shot of the risen Jesus’ riven palm in the earlier chapter. By expanding on that moment, Gibson may help to guide viewers of both films toward a fuller understanding of Christ’s incarnate life, sacrificial death and universally transformative return from the tomb.

Kurt Jensen is a guest reviewer for OSV News.

Jim Caviezel portrays Christ with his cross in a scene from the movie “The Passion of the Christ.” Nearly 20 years after Mel Gibson’s film hit theaters, Mel Gibson’s sequel, titled “The Resurrection of the Christ,” will start shooting in August 2025 at Rome’s Cinecittà Studios, CEO Manuela Cacciamani has announced. —OSV News photo/Philippe Antonello, Icon Productions

By John Mulderig, OSV News

Reverent but sometimes overwrought dramatization of the events leading up to the arrest of Jesus (Jamie Ward), told from the viewpoint of the Apostle Peter (James Oliver Wheatley). Director and co-writer Mauro Borrelli achieves some moments of genuine intensity, mostly when adhering closely to Scripture. But the effort to flesh out the biblical account goes awry, with the script he penned with John Collins failing to provide a coherent characterization for Judas (Robert Knepper) or explain the motive for his betrayal. Some harsh gory violence, a suicide. The OSV News classification is A-II – adults and adolescents. The Motion Picture Association rating is PG-13 – parents strongly cautioned. Some material may be inappropriate for children under 13.

Jamie Ward portrays Christ in a scene from the movie “The Last Supper,” in theaters beginning March 14, 2025. OSV News photo/Pinnacle Peak

Diocesan Events

Asian and Pacific Islander Multicultural Fair, 1 p.m. to 4 p.m., Our Lady of Czestochowa, 908 Hamilton Blvd., South Plainfield. For further information, contact Sister Miriam Perez at mperez@ diometuchen.org.

NJ Catholic Youth Rally 2025 at Six Flags Great Adventure, open to all junior high, high school and young adult ministry, scouting, parish/school athletic programs, and families. Registration for ticket package includes: Admission to Six Flags, opening ceremony and Sunday Liturgy, FREE parking vouchers for your group, Mega-Meal voucher. Total Cost - $70 – For more information or to purchase tickets contact Jay Donofrio at 732-243-4576 or email jdonofrio@ diometuchen.org. Tickets may be picked up at the St. John Neumann Center, Piscataway, after April 20. To register scan the QR code or contact Jay Donofrio for assistance.

DIOCESAN PROGRAMS

Adoration at Pastoral Center – The faithful are invited to Eucharistic Adoration at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center, Monday through Friday, from 9 -11:45 a.m. As Pope St. John Paul II noted. “The Church and the world have a great need of Eucharistic adoration.” Anyone interested in signing up should contact Angela Marshall at amarshall@diometuchen.org.

Perpetual Adoration - Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament The Shrine Chapel of the Blessed Sacrament, in Raritan, is looking for adorers to sit with the Blessed Sacrament Monday through Friday from 10:00 a.m. to 4:00 p.m. Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament is also being offered the first Saturday of each Month (Night Vigil) from 8:00 p.m. to 8:00 a.m. Anyone interested in signing up should visit https://blessedsacramentshrine.com.

AROUND THE DIOCESE

May 3 – Mother’s Day Craft Celebration, 10 a.m. –4 p.m., St. Francis Cathedral, CYO Building, Metuchen. The event will include food trucks, jewelry, candles/ soaps, home décor, pet items, Mother’s Day printed portraits, handcrafted items, gifts and more. Arts and crafts for children will be available all day, admission is free.

May 10 - The Men of St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Three Bridges, are hosting a Men’s Freedom in Christ Conference May 10, from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. This conference is open to all men in the Diocese and will be held at the parish (105 Summer Road). Father Giuseppe Sinischalchi of the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal will be the principal speaker. For questions or more information contact Tom Dwyer at 908-884-9947 or thomasdwyer@sprintmail.com.

May 13 - Healing Mass on Our Lady of Fatima’s feast day at 7 p.m. with Father John Campoli, I.V. Dei at Our Lady of Peace Church, North Brunswick. All are welcome. The Mass is sponsored by the parish Columbiettes. For more information visit https://www. frjohncampoli.com/. The church is located at 1730 US Hwy 130, North Brunswick.

May 17 - Holy Savior Academy Spring Fling, 10 a.m. – 3 p.m. Cars, Cornhole and Community Spirit fundraiser, including Cornhole tournaments, car and bike show, food trucks and vendors, bounce houses, family games and more. Holy Savior Academy, 149 So. Plainfield Ave., So. Plainfield. For information contact Deanna McCriskin, 732-619-7465, or email HSAspringvendorevent@gmail.com for details.

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

PART-TIME DIRECTOR OF RELIGIOUS EDUCATION Monday and Wednesday Evenings approximately 20 hrs week. Salary depending on experience.

PART-TIME CHOIR DIRECTOR/ORGANIST-PIANIST/CANTOR

St. Andrew Church, Avenel, NJ. Call rectory at 732-634-4355 for interview

BUSINESS MANAGER

OUR LADY OF THE MOUNT CHURCH, WARREN, NJ

Category: Accounting/Finance, Terms: Part-Time Employee Experience: 10+ Years, Education: High School, Base Pay: Hourly Send applications or inquiries to: frsean@olmwarren.org

Job Summary: The Business Manager of Our Lady of the Mount Church (OLM) is responsible for a small Catholic parish office and oversees various administrative tasks like budgeting, financial reporting and facility maintenance, as well as managing office resources. The Business Manager coordinates office activities and operations to secure compliance with church regulations and aligns with the church's mission and values.

Responsibilities:

Administrative Management: • Oversee the office staff at Our Lady of the Mount. • Establish work priorities and ensure deadlines are met and procedures are followed. • Oversee and coordinate office administrative procedures and implement new procedures when required. • Oversee purchasing, including office supplies inventory. • Is the administrator for all online activities. • Provide support for ministry programs. • Maintain a safe, secure, and pleasant work environment.

Payroll & Financial Management: • Develop annual budget with accountant and head of Finance Council. • Prepare, submit and post payroll twice per month, including accurate time reporting and benefits contributions/payments. • Oversee the count of weekly collections and make bank deposits on timely basis. • Post collections, other contributions and deposits on a timely basis. • Oversee income and expense tracking. • Prepare and mail checks to suppliers. • Submit monthly diocesan assessment payments on timely basis. • Prepare, with OLM accountant, financial reports for the leadership team.

• Attend quarterly finance council meetings.

Records and Documentation: • Submit monthly income and online contributions to the Finance Council • Submit bank statements and online contributions to OLM accountant monthly • Maintain office files and records, ensuring they are up-todate and properly managed. • Provide second collection contribution amounts for publication in church bulletin

• Update restricted donations files and send acknowledgement letters • Open and sort incoming mail. • Oversee timely recording of sacramental books. • Manage OLM lease contracts. • Prepare contributions statement annually for tax filings.

Requirements and Skills: • Commitment to the church's mission and values. • Prior experience working in a parish office preferred. • Proven experience in office management or a similar administrative position. • Proficiency in QuickBooks and MS Office (Excel, Word, PowerPoint) • Excellent organizational and time management skills. • Ability to multitask and prioritize work. • Attention to detail and problem-solving skills. • Strong written and verbal communication skills.

• Interpersonal skills to interact effectively with parishioners, staff and volunteers.

Education and Other Experience: • High school diploma or equivalent; a degree in Business Administration or a related field is preferred.

• Certification in church office management or administration is a plus. • Relevant job experience.

Salary: Salary commensurate with qualifications and experience

Hours: Monday-Friday, flexible hours, approximately 25 hrs weekly

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