SOUTH ORANGE - For Holocaust survivor Luna Kaufman, her life has come full circle as one of only two Jewish children in a Catholic elementary school in her native Poland to recipient of an honorary degree last month from Seton Hall University (SHU).

NEWARK-As the oldest bishop in the United States, Archbishop Emeritus Peter L. Gerety has reached a multitude of ministerial milestones. The latest is the 70th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on June 29, 1939. That will be followed by his 97th birthday July 19. He has served as a bishop for 43 years.
 
Archbishop John J. Myers and the entire Church of Newark will celebrate Archbishop Gerety's long and holy life with a commemorative noon Mass Monday, June 29, at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, 89 Ridge St., followed by a reception at the nearby Rink in Branch Brook Park.

Born in 1912, the oldest of nine boys, Archbishop Gerety credits his parents as among of the major influences on his decision to become a priest. Another source of inspiration was the clergy at his boyhood parish, Saint Joseph, located in his hometown of Shelton, CT.

EAST RUTHERFORD - Seton Hall University, South Orange, awarded diplomas to 1,052 undergraduate students during its 152nd commencement ceremony held May 11 at the Izod Center.

Separate ceremonies were held for SHU's 1,070 graduate students. In all, the university graduated 2,122 undergraduate and graduate students this year.

Pope Benedict XVI holds my admiration in a manner that I could never have imagined a few years ago. He is absolutely brilliant. Yet, if I were asked to describe him in one word, my response might need to be two words-"humble" and "serene."

The pope endures constant attack and harassment, yet he never manifests resentment, nor does he respond with anything but quiet logic and, as it seems, constant attempts to pacify his opponents. Always, he seems to be at apparent peace with himself and, of course, with the Lord.

Just consider a short list of problems he has faced. He was hardly installed as pope when he decided to visit Sapienza University, a Roman school founded by Pope Boniface VIII in the 14th century. He was coming to make a scholarly, thoughtful presentation. The students went berserk. They had decided that they did not want to hear the pope. The intolerant among them staged sit-ins and protests and promised to disrupt any lecture by the pope. He simply withdrew from the planned visit.

NEWARK-As the oldest bishop in the United States, Archbishop Emeritus Peter L. Gerety has reached a multitude of ministerial milestones. The latest is the 70th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood on June 29, 1939. That will be followed by his 97th birthday July 19. He has served as a bishop for 43 years.

Pope Benedict XVI Honors 28 in Archdiocese



His Holiness Pope Benedict XVI has bestowed the honorary title of Reverend Monsignor upon 18 priests of the Archdiocese of Newark, and further elevated two monsignors of the archdiocese. Eight Religious priests, Brothers and Sisters also were honored by the pontiff with the Benemerenti Medal for Religious men and women.

When I began looking over the names and faces of the priests and Religious celebrating significant jubilees this year, I naturally felt both awed and humbled. Awed because of the number of jubilarians this year. Humbled because in these few pages, we come face to face with living examples of Catholics who willingly and faithfully have observed Jesus' exhortation in the Gospel of Matthew to "teach all that I have commanded you" (Mt. 28:20).

Readings: Ex 24:3-8; Ps 116; Heb 9:11-15; Mk 14:12-26.
The celebration of Holy Week involves so many aspects of our faith that we cannot absorb their manifold dimensions. Holy Thursday is not a holy day of obligation, so perhaps some of the faithful do not have the opportunity to express gratitude for Christ's self-giving in the Eucharist. Although every Sunday provides such an occasion, the Church in 1264 instituted a special feast to solemnize our appreciation for Christ's eucharistic gift.

In every age, the Bishops and their associates "should constantly exert themselves to have the faithful know and live the Paschal Mystery more deeply through the Eucharist and thus become a firmly knit body in the solidarity of Christ's love" (Vatican II, Decree on Bishops No. 15).

For centuries theologians and philosophers have discussed and debated the wonderful doctrine of Catholic faith that Christ is truly present under the eucharistic species of bread and wine. These efforts to understand and to answer objections to this teaching are very important. However, only by focusing on the Paschal Mystery of Jesus' death and resurrection can we begin to realize the full implications of the surprising gift that Jesus offered at the Last Supper.

"Praise the Holy Trinity: Shea, O'Brien, Finnerty; Holy God, Mighty God, God Immortal, be adored!"

If you attended Mass on the weekend of June 6 and 7 you very likely would have sung most of the words of the above refrain, minus the proper surnames. On the Solemnity of the Holy Trinity, always the first Sunday after Pentecost, we pay special attention to the "Undivided Unity" of three Divine Persons in one God: The Father, The Son, and The Holy Spirit. This belief is based on revelations from God as recorded in various ways throughout the Bible's Old and New Testaments.

The most-learned saints acknowledged that it is a mystery neither fully understandable nor adequately explainable. Nonetheless, it is the core belief of our faith, which trusts the God, who has revealed His Love to us in so many ways throughout the course of history.

For the third time in recent years, the Archdiocese of Newark is leading the nation with the number of men to be ordained to the priesthood. Archbishop John J. Myers will ordain 13 new priests, including two who call the Church of Newark home, on Saturday, May 23, at 10 a.m. in the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, 89 Ridge St., Newark.

Providing a global backdrop for the ordination of priests in the Archdiocese of Newark, Pope Benedict XVI, in his recent call for a "year of the priest," declared that priestly ordination creates "new men who are bestowed with the gift and office of sanctifying, teaching and governing."

As part of the worldwide celebration, the pope will proclaim Saint John Vianney to be patron saint of all priests (see The Catholic Advocate, April 22). Saint John Vianney currently is considered the patron saint of parish priests. In addition, the pope praised the grand legacy of Pope John Paul II as a spiritual leader who inspired many to pursue vocations to the priesthood and consecrated life.

NEWARK-Most Rev. Edgar M. da Cunha, Auxiliary Bishop of Newark, presented awards to the top four finishers at this year's annual The Catholic Challenge competition, which was held April 4 at the Archdiocesan Center.

Catholic Concerns Focus on Access Rights
Whither Catholic healthcare and the urgent call for universal coverage in the age of soaring federal budget deficits, global economic meltdowns and the desperate medical needs of those who are uninsured?

The Catholic Church has been dedicated to the healing and healthcare ministry since the days of Jesus. In the United States, one out of every six patients is treated in a Catholic facility. Catholic healthcare is based on the principle that every person is created in the image and likeness of God and has an inalienable dignity. Catholic teaching states that life-from conception until natural death-is sacred and should be protected.

MONTCLAIR, MAHWAH-This is a story about a low-tech, longdistance form of communication employed by students on two college campuses in the Archdiocese of Newark that is more powerful and user friendly than any cell phone, Blackberry or Internet site.

The bandwidth is unlimited and eternal. The content is spiritual. The format requires outreach and a heartfelt sharing of values. The system is designed to cultivate faithful friendships, develop soulsearching retreats and facilitate a meaningful exchange of religious dialogue and ideas-concepts and connections designed to last well beyond undergraduate years.

Madigan's Outreach Efforts Touch Students



There have been defining moments on my faith journey that have led me to where I am today and why I have been serving in Catholic Campus Ministry for almost 12 years. In July 2007 I was appointed as the archdiocesan director of Catholic Campus Ministry, which is my current position. In addition, I work as the lay campus minister at Stevens Institute of Technology, Hoboken.

Mary Eased Sorrow, Pain of Benkovic
NUTLEY-"If it wasn't for the intercession of Mary, I wouldn't be here today," Johnnette S. Benkovic, keynote speaker at the annual Women's Day of Reflection, declared.

The April 4 event at Holy Family Parish drew over 800 guests. This year's theme "Mary and the Holy Spirit," holds special significance for Benkovic. After tragically losing her son Simon in a car accident, she lost her husband of 34 years, Anthony, to cancer just a few years later. She credits Our Lady with helping her through her trials.

After years as a non-practicing Catholic who "turned her back on The Way," Benkovic had a profound conversion in 1981 following a charismatic prayer meeting. Since then, she has made it her life's mission to spread the word of God throughout all media.

Conference Hosts 2,500 Fathers, Sons
WEST ORANGE-In numbers that exceeded expectations, fathers, sons, uncles and brothers from throughout the Archdiocese of Newark and beyond joined in spiritual fellowship at the inaugural Catholic Men's Conference.

Some 2,500 participants filled the Essex County Richard J. Codey Arena on Saturday, March 28 for the two-tier English and Spanish eighthour program. Archbishop John J. Myers, a primary proponent of the conference and Men's Commission, described the event as "a gathering of men seeking a deeper relationship with God and stronger participation in parish life." The conference was co-sponsored by the Newark-based Franciscan Friars of the Renewal.

As executive assistant to Archbishop John J. Myers, Roseann Vazquez spends her days bustling, organizing and ensuring that the Church in Newark's leader is prepared for his daily activities. As a busy wife and mother, she views all three responsibilities as one vocation; a way to strengthen her relationship with the Lord while doing His work.

Vazquez has been at the archbishop's side since he arrived in Newark in eight years ago and has been working at the Archdiocesan Center for 34 years. "I handle the archbishop's travel arrangements, calendar and appointments. I coordinate and supervise the archbishop's office staff. Everything that touches the archbishop has to go through my little hands first. It can be a lot of pressure," she explained.

JERSEY CITY-Mary Baier sits at the helm of Our Lady of Czestochowa Elementary School and Little Harbor Academy. The schools are located at the crossroads of the Garden State's second-largest urban center. The education mission involves a creative, interactive approach to developing 21st century curriculum in a faithbased environment, which is populated by students of many nationalities, cultures and religions.
 
Welcome to the kaleidoscopic world of a New Jersey Catholic school principal.
 
Faith plays a central role for Baier's approach to Pre-K and elementary school education. She said it is at the heart of her spiritual grounding and her vision as an educator, as well as in the streetwise attention to detail and negotiation skills that are required of her profession.

The two schools operate under one roof as an outpost in a world of complex, diverse inner-city demographics. The financial crisis that continues to unfold in the power corridors of Wall Street-just across the Hudson River-is a long stone's throw from the school's main entrance at 248 Luis Marin Blvd.

TRENTON-Most Rev. Thomas A. Donato, Auxiliary Bishop of Newark, led a diverse coalition of faith-based leaders who addressed lawmakers at the Statehouse on March 25, urging support for the long-stalled bill designed to aid low-income students in underperforming innercity school districts.

St. Michael Church - Cranford 
Five weekend liturgies, plus Holy Days, Weddings, Funerals and School Liturgies.  Three choirs (Adult, Children, Contemporary), 2-manual Schantz pipe organ.  Salary range $35,000 - 40,000, plus benefits (weddings & funerals additional).

Contact:
Msgr. Louis Fimiani
40 Alden Street - Cranford, 07016
Email:  parishcenter@stmichaelscranford.org

Posted: 6/23/2009

Job Fair Seeks to Ease Employment Angst



CALDWELL-"There are jobs," Cassie Pfister, assistant director of career planning and development of Caldwell College said. "It is important to not be nervous about the lack of opportunity."

For any college senior, worrying about the future and the aftermath of graduation is to be expected. In these trying economic times, however, anxiety over job security and choosing careers is at a fever pitch.

NUTLEY-The annual "Day of Reflection," sponsored and organized by the Women's Commission of the Archdiocese of Newark, will be held Saturday, April 4, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Holy Family Parish, 28 Brookline Ave.

Johnnette S. Benkovic, the founder and president of Living His Life Abundantly International Inc.-a Catholic evangelization apostolate based in Oldsmar, FL, with outreaches in television, radio, print, and Internet/new media-will serve as the keynote speaker for the conference.

"Mary and the Holy Spirit" will be the theme of this year's reflection. Archbishop John J. Myers will celebrate Mass for the gathering at 10 a.m. to open the event.

NEWARK-After moving to the United States from Puerto Rico at age 11, Beatriz Capella leaned on her faith to get her through the difficult cultural transition.

"(My parents) didn't have any family here in America. I didn't speak any English and I was separated from the other kids because I was in ESL (English as a second language) classes. I felt lonely so I turned to God."

Throughout his lecture "The Holocaust by Bullets: A Priest Uncovers the Truth" at Seton Hall University (SHU), South Orange, on March 1, Father Patrick Desbois frequently prefaced his remarks with the phrase "you must understand" as a solemn plea to the audience of over 200. However, the words also revealed a profound sense of grief by Fr. Desbois, as though he himself was trying to comprehend the staggering horror he has uncovered in the remote farm villages of Eastern Europe.

NEWARK-The inaugural Catholic Men's Conference for the Archdiocese of Newark will be held Saturday, March 28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m., featuring a Mass celebrated by Archbishop John J. Myers, along with keynote presentations by NFL legend Danny Abramowicz and Bishop Manuel A. Cruz.

Organized under the auspices of the archdiocesan Men's Commission in cooperation with the Franciscan Friars of the Renewal, the gathering of spiritual fellowship will be held in the Essex County Richard J. Codey Arena (formerly South Mountain Arena) at 560 Northfield Ave., West Orange.

Fate Knocks at Door One Morning in Gettysburg
Born in 1834 in Gettysburg, PA, Mary Virginia (Jennie) Wade was witness to one of the greatest battles of the American Civil War (July 1-3, 1863). During the morning of July 3, Jennie was baking bread to feed hungry soldiers. Tragically, a stray bullet mortally wounded Jennie as she was mixing dough. Earlier that day, unknown to Jennie, her fiancé was wounded. He would die nine days after Jennie was killed. The two are buried together in Gettysburg's Evergreen Cemetery. Jennie is believed to be the only civilian to have been killed in the historic Battle of Gettysburg.

Blair Shares Wisdom on Global Challenges


Global alliances based on shared values are essential to meet the challenges of the 21st century, the most crucial of which is the worldwide economic freefall, former British Prime Minister Tony Blair declared Feb. 3 at Seton Hall University (SHU), South Orange.

AREA-FaithQuest, a four-week Lenten adult faith-formation program hosted by Saint Aloysius Parish, 219 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell, will begin Wednesday, March 11, 7:30 p.m. Registration will be held that evening in the school auditorium, which is located behind the church.

NEWARK-On Ash Wednesday (Feb. 25), as the worldwide Church marks the beginning of Lent, or in the weeks immediately afterward, parishes in the archdiocese will again take a special collection to benefit the Retired Priests' Pension Fund.

Today, some 200 of the more than 700 archdiocesan clergy are retired from active ministry. Although they no longer have regular parish assignments, the vast majority of retired priests continue to minister in some way to the people in the state, and we are all grateful for their contribution to the life of the Church. For example, retired priests celebrate Mass on weekends in parishes, temporarily replace priests who are on vacation or ill and visit the sick in hospitals and nursing homes.

Given the unique status of the Holocaust as an icon of evil in a morally confused world, Holocaustdenial triggers revulsions similar to those triggered by blasphemy in the Middle Ages: the Holocaust-denier must be shunned for everyone else's moral health.

Thus it was completely understandable that, when Pope Benedict XVI lifted the excommunications of four bishops illegally ordained in 1988 by the late French Archbishop Marcel Lefebvre, reporting and commentary focused on the fact that one of the four, Richard Williamson, is a Holocaust-denier and a man given to extolling that hoary anti-Semitic forgery, "The Protocols of the Elders of Zion."
 
Understandable, but something of freakish sideshow, for Williamson is an internationally known crank and no serious person can believe that Benedict XVI's act constituted an endorsement of Williamson's lunatic view of history. As the pope made clear at his Jan. 28 general audience, he has long recognized the Holocaust as a unique icon of wickedness-one that should call all of us "to reflect on the unpredictable power of evil when it conquers the heart of man."

NEWARK-An archdiocesan taskforce has been formed to work in solidarity with the national "Campaign to Reduce Poverty in America," which is being coordinated by Catholic Charities USA. The taskforce will work as a partner with similar organizations in other dioceses in New Jersey and throughout the United States.

Ecumenical Dialogue Strives for Unity

"Pray for those who will believe in me through their word that all may be one as you, Father, are in me and I in you. I pray that... they may be one as we are one... that their unity may be complete"
(John 17:21-23)

The goal of the international ecumenical movement is "visible unity" among all of Christ's disciples; unity in a common understanding of the one apostolic faith, a common sacramental life and a common understanding of ministry, which for Catholics means hierarchical ministry.

NEWARK - The annual "Women's Day of Reflection," an all-day forum sponsored by the Women's Commission of the Archdiocese of Newark, will be held Saturday, April 4, 9:30 a.m. to 4:30 p.m., at Holy Family Parish, 28 Brookline Ave., Nutley.

AAA Assists Most-Vulnerable Neighbors



NEWARK-The 2009 Archbishop's Annual Appeal (AAA) will kick off "pledge week" the weekend of Feb. 7 and 8, as parishes throughout the four counties of the archdiocese gear up for this year's fundraising campaign.

NEWARK-With just over two months left before the first-ever Catholic Men's Conference in the Archdiocese of Newark, those planning to attend are urged to register immediately.

Scheduled for Saturday, March 28, 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. at the Essex County Richard J. Codey Arena (formerly South Mountain Arena), 560 Northfield Ave. in West Orange, the conference is open to males high school age and older (see The Catholic Advocate, Oct. 22, 2008).

Service has always been an essential part of Catholic education. It is so completely intertwined within the mission of the Church that when Catholic school students are asked, "What do you do for service?" they are completely overwhelmed.

NEWARK-Although the April visit of Pope Benedict XVI to New York will forever distinguish 2008 for the faithful in Archdiocese of Newark and the nation, significant local events during the year inevitably left their mark.

The year that just slipped into history was a time when the Church of Newark installed a new auxiliary bishop, Most Rev. Manuel A. Cruz, a native of Cuba. Another auxiliary bishop, Most Rev. David Arias-the first Hispanic auxiliary bishop in New Jersey-joyfully celebrated the 25th anniversary of his episcopal ordination.

AREA - Faithful from the Archdiocese of Newark will be among thousands of people from throughout the country who converge on the nation's capital Thursday, Jan. 22 at the 36th annual March for Life rally to protest the U.S. Supreme Court decision legalizing abortion and remind lawmakers that the pro-life movement is more fervent than ever.

Groups from around the archdiocese plan to make the trek to Washington D.C. and brave the frigid temperatures in support of life. Father Joseph Meagher, director of the archdiocesan Respect Life Office, will depart on a bus the night before to attend a youth rally with those involved with campus ministry organizations.

Fr. Meagher, who has attended the March for Life since the early 1980s, believes the rally energizes and unifies the pro-life movement.

On Dec. 14, 2008, an advertorial-a paid advertisement that expresses an opinion on a current events topic-paid for by the New Jersey Education Association (NJEA) appeared in numerous newspapers in the state. The advertorial presented the group's opinion on the subjects of school choice and educational reform.

The author, NJEA President Joyce Powell, claimed that advocates of reform are trying to both gut the state's public school system and eliminate tenure in favor of "patronage positions to be filled at the whim of administration and politicians." The author used a very broad brush to spread her words around, but she succeeded only in painting herself into a corner.

Like the other Catholic dioceses in New Jersey and a broad coalition of civil rights, faith-based and parent organizations throughout the state, the Archdiocese of Newark is a proponent of school choice. We make no apologies for this stance. None of the Catholic dioceses has taken a position on eliminating tenure.

Homilies Aim to Cultivate Men Considering Call of Priesthood



Director of vocations for the Archdiocese of Newark less than a year, Father John D. Gabriel has already been struck by the "beautiful experience" of how the Lord works in the lives of men contemplating dedicating their lives to the Church.

CALDWELL-Caldwell College will host "Empowering Faith Communities to Include Individuals with Autism and Other Developmental Disabilities," a seminar and workshop on Saturday, Jan. 31, 2009, 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the Academic Building Lecture Hall.

The event, organized by the Caldwell College Department of Theology/Pastoral Ministry, will focus on providing resources and information to help communities of faith welcome individuals with autism. New Jersey, statistically, has the highest rate of autism in the nation, with 1 in 94 people affected.

"Early-bird" registration for the seminar is $25 per person ($35 after Jan. 5, 2009). Checks can be mailed to: Pastoral Ministry Program, Caldwell College, 120 Bloomfield Ave., Caldwell, NJ 07006-attention: Sister Barbara A. Moore, O.P., D. Min. Contact Sr. Barbara via e-mail (SBMoore@caldwell.edu) or call the college at (973) 618-3931 for more information. The snow date for the seminar is Saturday, Feb. 7, 2009.

Joyful Event Lifts Spirits at Homefirst



SCOTCH PLAINS-Confirmation students at Saint Bartholomew Parish hosted a Christmas party Dec. 12 for local homeless families-a joyful celebration that attracted 80 guests and was part of a service project to demonstrate the true meaning of Christmas.

ELIZABETH-It was a celestial, "full-circle" moment for the principal of Blessed Sacrament elementary school and one of her former students, who is now a space traveler.

Students and staff at Blessed Sacrament welcomed NASA astronaut Col. Alvin Drew on Nov. 25. Drew, an Air Force colonel, is based at NASA's Johnson Space Center in Houston. He was a member of the crew for the August 2007 Endeavor Space Shuttle mission that went into orbit and visited the International Space Station to make repairs and replenish supplies.

ROME-Archbishop John J. Myers has been elected president of the Pontifical North American College in Rome, it was announced last week.

He will hold this post for a term of three years as he continues to serve as Archbishop of Newark. Archbishop Myers is an alumnus (class of 1967) of North American College.

NUTLEY-"Procrastination is the real culprit," financial expert Sal Salvo cautioned last month at an archdiocesan-sponsored estateplanning seminar held at Saint Mary's Parish.

Salvo, co-founder of the Institute for Family Wealth Counseling in Parsippany (Web site: www.thefamilywealthinstitute.com), focused on income tax reduction, elimination of estate tax and estate planning from a Catholic perspective during the seminar. His warning on procrastination regarding individual estate planning is all the more urgent these days, given the uncertainty created by the unfolding global financial meltdown.

AREA-The fourth annual archdiocesan "Young Adult Month" celebration, sponsored and organized by the Archdiocesan office of Youth and Young Adult Ministries and Youth Retreat Center, 499 Belgrove Dr., Kearny, will kick off the New Year with a slate of events to be held throughout January 2009.

Various activities planned in Bergen, Hudson, Essex and Union counties, and outside of the archdiocese, such as an assortment of topics in the popular "Theology on Tap" series, will look to socially and spiritually engage young adults-twenty- and thirty-something women and men, married or single. Reflections on the life of Saint Paul, in honor of "The Year of Saint Paul" as declared by Pope Benedict XVI, are a featured theme in several activities.

Special Windows Illuminate Mausoleum



COLONIA - Most Rev. Dominic A. Marconi, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus of Newark, celebrated Mass Nov. 8 to dedicate Saint Gertrude Chapel Mausoleum of the Crucifixion.

In addition to creating a visually stunning sacred space for families to remember their loved ones, the chapel mausoleum now serves as the permanent archive and exhibition site for three vintage stained-glass windows that previously were part of the now-closed Saint Brigid Parish, North Bergen. A fourth window installed at the chapel-the Nativity scene- offers an interesting sidebar of "rediscovered" liturgical art history.

Finding 'Shelter' in a Turbulent Storm, Women Receive Support, Reject Abortion



Embarrassed, alone, confused and afraid. For young women who endure the many trials from an unplanned pregnancy, these emotions can make the decision to have their child extremely difficult. The women, some of whom are only 15 years old, often defy their families and friends by carrying their child to term.

Mother Seton Regional High School, founded in 1963, is committed to the "complete education" of the 425 young women who attend the Middle States Association accredited institution. Affiliated with the Sisters of Charity of Convent Station, the mission of the Catholic girls' high school is to "challenge, empower and inspire" its students and have them excel in "academics, personal growth and service to others" while learning in a diverse environment.

Sister Regina Martin, S.C., is proud of every student and stresses the importance of forming smart, capable young women. "They really are delightful girls," she said. "These young women are the future of the Church and the future of our families."

Started in the fall of 2001 following the 9/11 tragedy, the ministry began as a way to help those who lost their jobs due to the terrorist attacks. Ed McCabe, a career coach/senior counselor/master trainer at Lee-Hecht-Harrison, is one of the ministry's founders. Carol Shea, vice president of information technology recruiting at Berman, Larson, Kane in Paramus, is also a member of the ministry team.

Since I was first called to serve as a bishop more than 20 years ago, I have taught plainly and forcefully on the primacy of protecting the sanctity and the dignity of life at all stages, and on the need to care and nurture pregnant women so they will choose to have their babies.

I have also plainly and forcefully taught that it is the responsibility of all Catholics, whether in public life or not, to form our consciences according to authentic Catholic teaching and tradition, and not societal fashions and fads. Even more so, it is our responsibility to live our teaching and tradition every day, not just on Sundays.

Most recently, I joined with the Administrative Committee of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops to endorse statements by Cardinal Justin Rigali of Philadelphia and Bishop William E. Lori of Bridgeport, CT, that point out that life begins at conception, and that from her very beginning the Church has taught the grave moral evil of abortion.

Mass at CSE to Reflect on Beatification



CONVENT STATION - Most Rev. Arthur J. Serratelli, Bishop of the Paterson Diocese, will be the main celebrant at the 29th annual Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Foundation Memorial Mass Tuesday, Dec. 9, 5 p.m., at Holy Family Chapel on the campus of the College of Saint Elizabeth (CSE).

LINDEN-End-of-life decisions were the focus of two national leaders who spoke Oct. 4 at the annual Life Issues Seminar at Saint John the Apostle Parish.

Group Hopes to Reinvigorate Sons, Fathers



NEWARK-With in excess of 2,500 men from throughout the Archdiocese of Newark expected to attend the first Catholic Men's Conference next March, preparations for the massive undertaking are solidifying.

NEWARK-Archbishop John J. Myers, in a formal ceremony Oct. 17, officially transferred the Catholic mission, ministry and healthcare operations of Saint Michael's Medical Center to Hope Ministries, a religious community within Catholic Health East (CHE).

Through the covenant, Israel was initiated into intimacy with God, which may be described as a filial bond. "I have called my son out of Egypt" (Hos 11:1; see Ex 4:22-23). Brought into God's family, Israelites should recognize the divine presence in their midst. The title "glory" designates the impressive, illuminating presence of God, especially associated with the Temple that demands acknowledgment (which is the act of "giving glory" to God).

Well into their summer assignments at parishes throughout the four counties of the Archdiocese of Newark, a predominate reaction among adjunct clergy from around the world is a deep appreciation of this country's multiculturalism, which they gained during an enriching pastoral experience among a devote and welcoming faithful.

The archdiocese-one of the most culturally and ethnically diverse corners of the United States-is one of the national leaders in utilizing summer adjunct priests. While the visiting priests benefit from their U.S. experiences, faith communities, in turn, learn about the broad spectrum of cultures these priests represent.

Operating under the guidance of Father Stanley Gomes, director of adjunct clergy for the archdiocese, some 60 parishes are participating this year in the program that allows pastors and parochial vicars to take a break from their demanding duties.

NEWARK-Rev. Msgr. John P. Hourihan, pastor emeritus of Saint John Parish who died at the age of 84 on Sept. 10, leaves a legacy of tireless work with the deaf community as well as compassionate outreach to the poor, hungry and homeless.

A Mass of Christian Burial was celebrated on Sept. 15 at, Saint John Parish, the oldest parish in New Jersey.

(Editor's note: the following feature continues The Catholic Advocate's coverage of the "Year of Saint Paul," as proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI. Previous articles on Saint Paul have appeared in the July 16, June 18 and May 7 editions.)

When Saint Paul dictated his letters, could he have imagined that they would be proclaimed throughout the world in a great variety of translations? Could he have dreamed that commentaries on his writings would fill libraries and spark major conflicts over the centuries?

The pilgrimage of the Salesians of Don Bosco Youth Ministry, South Orange, to World Youth Day (WYD), Sydney, Australia, last July was a long journey and spiritual quest that was three years in the making. Sixty-six members of the group worked hard to prepare themselves spiritually for this pilgrimage, taking part in special masses, retreats, increased prayer and meditations. Preparations also included making financial sacrifices to pay for the trip.

Oct. 4 Forum to Gather at Linden Parish



LINDEN-Archdiocesan and national leaders in the pro-life movement will speak at a Life Issues Seminar on Saturday, Oct. 4 at Saint John the Apostle Parish, 1805 Penbrook Terr.

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Archbishop provides background on decision made by Holy See



Every once in a while, especially as we come close to the day of an episcopal ordination, someone asks me about what is involved in selecting an auxiliary bishop. How does the process start? What are the steps that a diocese must follow? Does an auxiliary bishop always come from the diocese where he has served as a priest? Does the pope actually choose an auxiliary?

Bishop-Elect Cruz Shares Wisdom from the Infirmary



During almost three decades of ministry in the archdiocese, Bishopelect Manuel A. Cruz has dedicated his life to enhancing a sense of community through God's love. With his new positions as Regional Episcopal Vicar of Union County and Episcopal Vicar for the Hispanic Apostolate, he will continue to reinforce the spiritual bond between the Church and its people.

A Bishop 'Made' in Union City



Last June, when it was announced that Pope Benedict XVI had appointed Msgr. Manuel J. Cruz as an auxiliary bishop, the blessed news spread quickly throughout the Archdiocese of Newark's Hispanic community. As the first Cubanborn priest in the Archdiocese of Newark, Bishop-elect Cruz has dedicated his ministry to the Hispanic community for more than 28 years.

ASL Mass at Saint John's to Welcome Deaf Catholics



NEWARK-A long history of serving the deaf community throughout the Archdiocese of Newark comes full circle on Sunday, Sept. 7 at Saint John Parish on Mulberry Street with the initiation of a regularly scheduled American Sign Language (ASL) Sunday Mass.

Norwood's Parish Outreach Spans 14 Years



There are any number of ways to describe the glowing friendship between the parishioners of Immaculate Conception Parish, Norwood, and Zion Baptist Church, located in Lottsburg, VA-a once-ayear gathering of kindred spirits; a nine-hour car ride to perform community service projects for those in need; an opportunity to temporarily leave the familiar sights of northern New Jersey and see what summer days are like for those who live along Northumberland Highway in the Old Dominion state.

Archbishop Draws Parallel to Ancient Roman Catacombs



AREA-In its latest effort to provide state-of-the-art facilities and services to the Catholic people of the northern New Jersey, Archbishop John J. Myers and Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark recently broke ground on two new mausoleum projects-in Jersey City and Mahwah-and began an expansion of its cemetery in Mahwah.

NEWARK-It would be profoundly accurate to say Dr. Irma Chavez is fluent in many fields: languages, academics, international relations and a broad spectrum of spiritual outreach encounters.

Working with Plainfield-based RENEW International for the past 25 years in areas such as her native El Salvador, Chavez has been to the poorest communities in Central America, spreading the Gospel. Interaction with dangerous young gang members in rural El Salvador is a far cry from her previous role traveling the globe as a diplomat's wife, college professor and poet.

Born to an Irish-American mother and a Nicaraguan/Spanish father in Cojutepeque, El Salvador, Chavez speaks Spanish, English, Italian, French and German. She was educated in Europe, earned a doctorate in philosophy from the University of Bologna, Italy, and master's degree in theology from Saint John's University, New York.

AREA-If you have the faith, compassion and fortitude to do God's work inside the walls of a prison, then please call this phone number: (973) 618-3302. Deacon Gregory Quinn, director of the archdiocesan Office of Prison Ministry, has issued a call for volunteers to priests, deacons, Religious and lay people. The ministry has members ranging in age from 14 to 85 years and needs to expand its ranks to continue its outreach mission.

In a dozen facilities throughout the four counties that comprise the archdiocese there are 12,000 men and women in the prison population; all 12,000 have unique spiritual needs, according to Deacon Quinn. "(Inmates) have an insatiable appetite for learning our devotions, developing a knowledge of our saints and deriving the source of our strength-the Trinity," he declared.

Former Pastor Recalls his Path to Priesthood



While serving as a pastor during the past nine years, Father John D. Gabriel, saw the parish as a focal point of supporting men who are considering the priesthood. Now, as the new director of vocations for the Archdiocese of Newark, that outlook will carry an even greater emphasis and sense of urgency. A product of Nativity Parish in Midland Park, Fr. Gabriel was ordained in the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark 21 years ago. Looking back fondly on his recent pastorate at Saint Thomas More Parish in Fairfield, he says it was "perfect preparation" for his new responsibilities at the Newark chancery.

NEWARK-The Urban Ministry Task Force-the first in a comprehensive evaluation of spiritual, cultural, economic and community life throughout the four counties of the Archdiocese of Newark-is defining and addressing challenges faced by inner-city parishes.

Reimbursement from State to Drop by $111M


NEWARK-Nine of the remaining 13 Catholic hospitals in New Jersey will operate in a "strained financial situation" for the foreseeable future as they face a major reduction in state funding of Charity Care.

Beloved Late Wife Inspired Journey of Fr. Sammarco


When his wife died of breast cancer on Good Friday a decade ago, Father Bruno S. Sammarco-ordained May 24 at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark by Archbishop John J. Myers-literally and spiritually put his future into God's hands.

Msgr. Cruz Expresses Thanks for His 'Cuban Refugee' Journey



Pope Benedict XVI has named Rev. Msgr. Manuel A. Cruz, 54-a priest who has spent his life in service in both parish and in medical and pastoral care ministry- as a new auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese of Newark. Archbishop John J. Myers made the announcement during a June 9 press conference at the Archdiocesan Center.

NEWARK-The Archdiocese of Newark will inaugurate its observance of the "Year of Saint Paul" with a special noon Mass to be celebrated by Archbishop John J. Myers on Sunday, June 29, at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart.

The worldwide celebration, proclaimed by Pope Benedict XVI last year, will run from June 28 to June 29, 2009. Pope Benedict announced the Church's Pauline year marking the 2,000th anniversary of the saint's birth last June on the eve of the feast of Saint Paul and Saint Peter. The pontiff said the celebration year, to be marked by liturgies and special events in Rome, also should be celebrated in dioceses throughout the world.

North American Church leaders have issued calls for the faithful to study the life and missionary spirit of Saint Paul during the next 12 months (see The Catholic Advocate, May 7). Father C. Anthony Ziccardi, executive director of mission and ministry and a professor at Immaculate Conception Seminary on the South Orange campus of Seton Hall University, said most of the information on...

Reporters Murray, Friedman Plan to 'Blog' All About It



ROSELLE - Among the thousands of young people attending World Youth Day in Sydney, Australia (July 15-20), 11 students from Roselle Catholic High School will be part of a contingent representing the Archdiocese of Newark at the international event.

The group from the Marist Brothers-led Union County high school-15 in total including chaperones-has many activities to look forward to as they head "down under" from July 6-20. Prior to World Youth Day, a Marist International Youth Festival will be held at a Marist high school in Sydney, gathering together over 700 students from the order's schools worldwide.

NEWARK-With rising gang violence plaguing their city, students and administrators of Saint Rose of Lima School are fighting back.

As the first private school in the state to offer the federal Gang Resistance Education and Training (GREAT) program curriculum, the parish school on Orange Street is combating the recruitment of gang members at a younger age.

GREAT is a school-based, law enforcement officer-instructed classroom curriculum. With prevention as its primary objective, the program is intended to resist youth violence and gang membership. Offered to the third, fourth and sixth grade students, it is taught by Officer Raymond Vonderheide, senior parole officer in the street gang unit of the New Jersey State Parole Board.

This is a time for rejoicing. Any of you who has ever attended an ordination at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark knows first-hand the elation, the energy, the celebration that springs forth when the sacrament of Holy Orders is conferred.

'Indifference' Fuels Tension in Middle East



SOUTH ORANGE-The Middle East is the geopolitical challenge of our time that will take generations to solve, declared U.S. Ambassador to the U.N. Dr. Zalmay Khalilzad, speaking at a Whitehead School of Diplomacy and International Relations forum on the campus of Seton Hall University (SHU).

Key Position Eyes Application of Canon Law for the Church



Pope Benedict XVI has named Most Rev. John J. Myers, Archbishop of Newark, as a member of the Pontifical Council for Legislative Texts. The appointment was effective April 1 and is in addition to his continuing role as leader of the Newark Archdiocese. Archbishop Myers has served as a consultor to the council since 1996.

Lesniak Declares Funds for Students Not a 'Voucher'



In an emotionally charged hearing of the State Senate Economic Growth Committee, which pitted a growing statewide coalition of parents and community advocates against New Jersey's public teachers' union and other public school interest groups, the Urban Enterprise Zone Jobs Scholarship Act (S-1607), moved closer to full consideration by the NJ legislature.

Archbishop Myers to Ordain Nonet of Priests on May 24 at Cathedral Basilica Mass



Archbishop John J. Myers will ordain nine men to the priesthood for service to the Church of Newark on Saturday, May 24 at 10 a.m. in the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart. As was the case last year, the Archdiocese of Newark is among the national leaders with the number of men to be ordained. Newark led the nation the last two years with 13 and 17 newly ordained respectively.

Allendale Site Supports Adult Stem-Cell Research



ALLENDALE-The New Jersey Cord Blood Bank (NJCBB), the state's only public cord-blood bank that supports adult stem-cell research, is in danger of closing due to lack of funding.

MORRISTOWN-For the many Catholics living in New Jersey, ethical, morally sound, end-of-life care for loved ones is a difficult issue. Not only do theological principles of innate human dignity arise, but there are practical matters of cost to weigh.

Keynote Speaker Describes her Abortion-Survival Saga



Traveling from all five dioceses throughout the Garden State, 750 high school students attended the fifth annual New Jersey Pro-Life Rally on Friday, April 18 on the South Orange campus of Seton Hall University (SHU).

NEW YORK-When the sun suddenly broke through the clouds last Sunday afternoon, Greg Tobin knew it was going to be an extraordinary day.

YONKERS, NY-"Take Courage! Fix your gaze to our saints," cried Pope Benedict XVI as he addressed the crowd of 22,000 young Catholics and seminarians from across the nation at Saint Joseph Seminary on April 19.

Large, colorful banners of yellow and violet were hung on the stage of the field where thousands gathered, including over 2,000 seminarians, on the field of the 40-acre seminary. The crowd was given flags in the papal colors of white and gold, which were emphatically waved as the Holy Father arrived on stage.

Pope Benedict, during his address, stressed the idea of courage in faith to the young people at the rally. "You are Christ's disciples today," he said. "Shine His light upon this great city and beyond."

For most college students, doing manual labor in rural West Virginia-compared with reclining on a sunny beach in Florida-would not be high on a top-10 list of "favorite things to do" during winter break. However, a dedicated group of Caldwell College students discovered that working at Nazareth Farm in Salem, WV, proved to be an invaluable, spiritual experience-one that turned out to be far more meaningful than beach time.

On Aug. 1, 1849, a hot sun baked the harbor of the city of Gaeta, near Naples in the Kingdom of the Two Sicilies. As noon approached, Pope Pius IX, dressed in white cassock and wide red Roman hat, stepped into an ornate barge and comfortably settled under a large canopy protecting him from the sun.

Twelve sailors rowed the pontiff past Spanish, French, and British warships with their yards manned. As the papal party drew near a majestic frigate, cannons roared a 21-gun salute and the papal flag was hoisted to the top of the mainmast.

Cardinal Joseph Ratzinger, the dean of the College of Cardinals, was elected pope on Tuesday, April 19, 2005 in the shortest conclave in modern history. He succeeded Pope John Paul II who was the second-longest serving pope in recorded history: nearly 27 years. (Blessed Pius IX occupied the Chair of St. Peter for nearly 32 years, from 1846 to 1878.) He was reportedly elected on the fourth ballot with 84 of the 115 votes.

There will be several important moments during Pope Benedict XVI's visit to the United States. No doubt the event that will attract the most media attention from around the world will be Benedict XVI's address to a session of the United Nations' General Assembly. The next-most important news event will occur when Pope Benedict visits with President George W. Bush in the White House.

But, in addition to what will interest news media from around the world, other moments in the pope's visit will hold even greater importance for some of us here in the United States.

Community Service Remains Essential for Bishop Arias



On the eve of the 25th anniversary of his episcopal ordination, Bishop David Arias, O.A.R., is thankful for his many pioneering accomplishments. As the first Hispanic auxiliary bishop in New Jersey, his impact as a pastor, author and teacher in the Archdiocese of Newark is well documented and undeniable.

Beloved Pets Touch Heart of Deacon's Faithful Work



NEWARK-Ever since his childhood, Deacon Joseph A. Dwyer Jr., vice chancellor for administration in the Archdiocese of Newark, has had an abiding compassion and respect for all of God's creatures-deep feelings that have inspired his religious life and spiritual work.

Speakers Share Tales Straight from the Heart



Commemorating the 20th anniversary of Pope John Paul II's apostolic letter Mulieris Dignitatem ("On the Dignity and Vocation of Women"), the annual Women's Day of Reflection-sponsored by the Women's Commission of the Archdiocese of Newark-addressed issues of faith and life facing modern women in society and the Church.

When we look at the whole Easter tridiuum (the three days leading up to Easter) and the event of the Resurrection, what we would see is the greatest motivational story of all time. Beginning from Palm Sunday (the Sunday we celebrate Christ's triumphant entry into Jerusalem), everything looked bleak for Christ, the Son of God.

Guided by Sister Eileen, All Saints to Greet 560 Students in September



BAYONNE-Sister Eileen Jude Wust, S.S.J. will bring 22 years of experience as a principal to the new All Saints Catholic Academy when it opens its doors next September.

Most days, the richly wood-paneled York Room in the historic Birch Mansion of Ramapo College in Mahwah is home to chamber music and jazz performances, lectures by visiting professors and authors, art and seasonal exhibits and other events.

Two Caldwell Students Add their Energy to Movement

CALDWELL-On Jan. 20, two days before thousands gathered at the March for Life in Washington D.C., 800 students from across the country showed their deep commitment to the pro-life movement at the Students for Life of America (SFLA) conference.

There seemingly could be little to draw 56 New Jersey college students to the Lone Star State the day after the New Year began. However, an overwhelming love and appreciation for the Catholic Church along with the distinct presence of the Holy Spirit at the Garden State schools inspired the journey.

Nearly 3,000 students and members of religious orders from across the nation convened in Grapevine, TX, Jan. 2-6, for the 2008 Fellowship of Catholic University Students (FOCUS) national conference. The five-day event was held at the Gaylord Texan Resort and Convention Center.

ELIZABETH-First Friends, a volunteer group based out of St. Mary of the Assumption Parish, puts Catholic compassion and social teaching into action by simply "being there" for international asylum seekers at the Elizabeth Detention Center.

NEWARK-Close to a 1,000 of the faithful from throughout the Archdiocese of Newark filled the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart on Feb. 11 for an evening prayer service, celebrated by Archbishop John J. Myers, and a Plenary Indulgence granted by Pope Benedict XVI, honoring the 150th anniversary of the apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes.

NEWARK-The initial task for Dosso Kassimou as the president of Newark's new African Commission will be to connect the city's growing African community with the established Catholic African-American diaspora.

NEWARK-When the people of the Archdiocese of Newark join with others from around the world on the weekend of Feb. 16 and 17 to celebrate World Marriage Day, they will be doing much more than honoring the lifelong commitment of husband and wife and the openness to life.

They will be taking a stand, along with hundreds of thousands of people of all faiths across the state, to defend the definition of marriage as a union of one man and one woman at a time when the very meaning of marriage itself is being challenged by a society more focused on individual satisfaction than on God's plan for married couples as seen in the Old Testament and the Gospel. They also will continue to recognize that while traditional marriages may not always be perfect, they are by far the best setting for a child to grow and learn while excercising his or her natural right to know, love and be loved by his or her natural parents.

NEWARK-For priests and religious who are recent immigrants from Africa, adapting to the culture and practices of the Catholic Church in America can be a difficult experience. The African Conference of Catholic Clergy and Religious in the United States (ACCCRUS) seeks to help African clergy adjust to their new life in America.

The season of Lent is upon us today. It is a time of conversion and of self-reflection. It is a period of time in which we are called to search within ourselves, to hold up the light of God's truth to those dark places that exist within us, that we might be illuminated by the light of mercy the Lord provides in Himself.

Through this intense time of prayerful introspection, we gain insights-not only about ourselves, but about the Lord who created us, loves us, and, as we remember solemnly each Good Friday, died so we might have eternal life.

Cathedral Basilica to Host Evening Prayer on Feb. 11
Catholics around the world will join together during the month of February to celebrate the 150th anniversary of the apparitions of Our Lady of Lourdes. To honor the Blessed Virgin Mary on the occasion of this sesquicentennial event, Pope Benedict XVI has granted a Plenary Indulgence to those who honor her in a special way.

On this joyful occasion, all of the faithful of the Archdiocese of Newark are invited to participate in a celebration of evening prayer on Monday, Feb. 11, 7:30 p.m., at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, 89 Ridge Street, Newark, where, having fulfilled certain conditions, they will have the opportunity to gain the Plenary Indulgence. Archbishop John J. Myers will preside at the evening prayer.

Saint Michael's Becomes Hub for the City


NEWARK-As part of a comprehensive hospital transition plan designed to preserve a much-needed Catholic healthcare presence in Newark, the boards of Cathedral Healthcare System, Cathedral Health Services, and Columbus Hospital have approved a strategic transaction with Catholic Health East (CHE).

SUMMIT-Sacred Music is a big part of Gregory S. Scime's life and since 2001 he has traveled to the medieval town of Assisi, Italy-the birthplace of St. Francis-with the goal of assuring others of the same spiritually uplifting and satisfying experience.

Riley Inspires Young Adults to Value Life



NORTH ARLINGTON-Thousands of pro-life supporters will travel to Washington D.C. for the 35th annual March for Life on Jan. 22-each with a mission, a journey and a story to tell.

Small Allotment Provided to Archdiocesan Parishes

NEWARK-Pope Benedict's choice to celebrate the Eucharist with the Catholic people of the tri-state area at Yankee Stadium on Sunday, April 20, during the Easter season, makes this first Papal Visit to the United States a special blessing.

Home to Build Trust, Good Will in Newark Area



NEWARK-The real foundation of a new Habitat for Humanity home on South 6th Street just off South Orange Avenue will be the area's diverse faith traditions.

"Based on the analysis of the results of the 2007 Full Audit of the Archdiocese of Newark, you have been found to be in compliance with the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People."

A few simple words, but they speak volumes and speak them loudly.

Council 13678 Sends Joy from Wyckoff Parish


WYCKOFF-The spirit of giving this Christmas season not only abounds in the Archdiocese of Newark, but with the help of the Knights of Columbus Council 13678, it extends to U.S. soldiers thousands of miles away in Iraq and Afghanistan.

AREA-The Archdiocesan Office for Youth and Young Adult Ministry, based at the Archdiocesan Youth Retreat Center, 499 Belgrove Dr., Kearny, is coordinating an assortment of activities to mark the third annual "Young Adult Month" celebration.

Pope Benedict XVI, in his homily on the 2006 Feast of Corpus Christi, declared that the Eucharist "constitutes the treasure of the Church. The Eucharist is the Lord Jesus...in all times and places, He wishes to encounter men and women and bring them the life of God."

Notre Dame Teens Help Build Hope in Mississippi


NORTH CALDWELL-The desperate need of people living along the Gulf Coast, two years after the widespread devastation caused by Hurricane Katrina, made the decision of where the youth group at Notre Dame Parish would go this year an easy one.

to the Bishops, Priests, Deacons, Men, Women Religious and all Lay Faithful "On Christian Hope."

Introduction
1.) SPE SALVI facti sumus-in hope we were saved, says Saint Paul to the Romans, and likewise to us (Rom 8:24). According to the Christian faith, "redemption"-salvation-is not simply a given. Redemption is offered to us in the sense that we have been given hope, trustworthy hope, by virtue of which we can face our present: the present, even if it is arduous, can be lived and accepted if it leads towards a goal, if we can be sure of this goal, and if this goal is great enough to justify the effort of the journey.

Now the question immediately arises: what sort of hope could ever justify the statement that, on the basis of that hope and simply because it exists, we are redeemed? And what sort of certainty is involved here?

BALTIMORE (CNS) - Pope Benedict XVI will visit New York and Washington D.C. April 15-20, 2008. Archbishop Pietro Sambi, apostolic nuncio to the United States, confirmed the dates of the papal trip on Nov. 12 at the beginning of the annual fall meeting of the U.S. bishops.

MONTCLAIR-There is a "real chance" New Jersey could soon legislatively abolish the death penalty, longtime anti-capital punishment advocate Sister Helen Prejean declared Nov. 8 during a presentation at St. Peter Claver Parish.

325 Attendees Gain Insights on Faith, Caring


PARAMUS-The sixth annual Stewardship Day conference, held Nov. 3 at Paramus Catholic High School and sponsored by the archdiocesan Office of Development, celebrated an understanding of stewardship and its importance to the Church.

NEWARK-Recent Rutgers-Newark alumnus Brian Honsberger is accustomed to teamwork. As an All-American volleyball athlete who received a scholarship to attend college, he planned on playing professionally in Europe.

Today, the Buffalo, NY, native has used his affinity for teamwork by starting "Second Mile," a relief ministry in the University Heights neighborhood.

The original name for Immaculate Conception Parish was St. John the Baptist. On June 24, 1921, the feast day of the saint, the first Mass in Norwood was celebrated.
 
The property of the old Borough Club on Summit Street was purchased in 1921 for about $4,000. Catholic families, going door-to-door, collected the money. Sometime between June and December 1921, the parish name was changed to "Immaculate Conception" from St. John the Baptist. The Carmelite Fathers agreed to take over the care of the parish only if it was dedicated to the Blessed Virgin Mary, thus the name change.

Bus caravan Visits Parishes in Orange Area


AREA-Against the inspirational backdrop of a beautiful autumn day, over 100 participants enjoyed the Oct. 20 archdiocesan Heritage Tour, sponsored and organized by the archdiocesan Office of Property Management.

The daylong excursion-three buses led by a special police escort-included stops at four treasured churches located in the towns of East Orange, South Orange, and Orange (see The Catholic Advocate, Oct. 10 and Aug. 8).

LINDEN-It was a powerful confession reflecting the life of a woman who was at the heart of the historic legal decision that ignited the abortion controversy in the United States 34 years ago.

"I am sorry that I listened to the lies. I was part of the court case that brought the holocaust of abortion into this country and for that I deeply apologize."

Earlier this year, at a lecture on prayer-sponsored by Immaculate Conception Seminary (on the campus of Seton Hall University)-a guest remarked almost incredulously to a friend: "I never experienced prayer like that." In just one sentence, she captured the enthusiasm of the crowd attending Father Vincent Fortunato's presentation: "Praying with the Imagination."

Much has been written in the media about the Nov. 6 bond question that would authorize the State of New Jersey to spend $450 million to support stem-cell research (see The Catholic Advocate, Oct. 10 edition). Because there continues to be much confusion over the nature of stem-cell research, the Catholic Bishops of New Jersey, in concert with the Trenton-based New Jersey Catholic Conference, have sought in the time leading up to this election day to clarify for Catholic voters the Church's teaching related to stem-cell research.

Only 'Adult' Research gets Blessing from the Church
The emotional debate concerning embryonic stemcell research and the cloning of human life moves front and center onto the New Jersey political scene when voters go to the polls on Nov. 6.

At stake is a statewide "Stem Cell Research" bond issue question. If approved, the measure would authorize $450 million in taxpayer dollars for state-sponsored stem-cell research programs. It's expected the overwhelming majority of funds in the bond issue would be earmarked for research on embryonic stem cells.

The Catholic Church strongly supports adult stem-cell research, but remains adamantly opposed to embryonic stem-cell research and cloning.

Outreach Work Sparkles under Midnight Sun


SADDLE RIVER-In a far-away land famous for its cold weather, glaciers and "midnight sun," youth group members and their chaperones from St. Gabriel the Archangel Parish received a warm welcome. And then they went to work.

Today many young adults struggle with living the Catholic stewardship way of life. Stewardship consists of giving time, talent and treasure to God as a gift of gratitude for all the blessings we have received from Him. It is intentional, planned and proportionate to our blessings.

Honoring the Blessed Virgin Mary, parishes in the Archdiocese of Newark will organize a one-day pilgrimage on Saturday, Oct, 27, to the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Washington D.C.

NEWARK-The Archdiocese of Newark has awarded its annual stewardship grants to five schools and six parishes-the third consecutive year that funds have been made available for much-needed maintenance and capital improvement projects.

The grants were announced as the archdiocese gears up for its annual Stewardship Day event, which will be held Nov. 3, 8 a.m. to 3 p.m., at Paramus Catholic High School, 425 Paramus Rd.

Sept. 29 Event will Celebrate Catholic Gifts


Newark's Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart will display the sacred statue of Our Lady of America, Sept. 27 to Oct. 1-an exhibition that will serve as the spiritual centerpiece for the archdiocesan Festival of Faith celebration, which will be held Saturday, Sept. 29.

MONTCLAIR-They've traveled a great distance to open doors and touch hearts, one person at a time.

Sister Faustine of Jesus and Sister Jeanne Marie, from the Community of the Apostolic Sisters of St. John, Burgundy, France, recently arrived here to serve as Catholic campus ministers at Montclair State University's (MSU) Newman Center.

Two Women Share Odyssey of Healing


Donna Pfluger-Murray and her associates at Aon Risk Services Inc. were holding an important client meeting on the 105th floor of the South Tower of the World Trade Center on the morning of Sept. 11, 2001. Pfluger- Murray, along with her colleague Jen, had worked late the night before to prepare for the meeting and arrived early that day to finalize details.

Leap of Faith Sparked Shift in her Career


From managing logistic operations for multimillion-dollar accounts to managing over 800 children at a summer catechetical program, Mahwah resident and religious educator Gladys Pozza has found that following her heart, creativity and a lot of organization are key to leading a fulfilling spiritual and professional life.

Archdiocese of Newark Celebrates Annual Mass Honoring Fire Service Personnel

How do we, as Catholics, define social justice in the 21st century?

As we approach Labor Day, we only need to read the signs of the times all around us. The past and the present are a prologue to the future. We all affect history for good or for ill. The spirit of justice and peace must begin in our own hearts before it can penetrate the world.

Catherine Attara-Fink and her eighth-grade son Thomas are a unique tandem. Both are involved in the Archdiocese of Newark's Prison Ministry program.

Parishioners of Notre Dame Parish in North Caldwell, they admitted their calling is not for everyone. But for those who reach out to the incarcerated, they said it is a fulfilling experience. The mother and son deal with people of all faiths who are, in Attara-Fink's words, "hungry for spiritual life."

St. Cecilia Parishioners Worry, Wait

KEARNY-Following a devastating magnitude-8 earthquake that struck near Peru's capital city, Lima, on Aug. 15, members of the large Peruvian community here at St. Cecilia Parish are stunned and concerned as they try to connect with family members in their home country.

NEWARK-Through the work of the Archdiocese of Newark's Catholic Charities' Refugee Resettlement and Human Trafficking programs, a former trafficking victim was reunited with her nine-year-old son on July 26 at Newark Liberty International Airport after more than four years of forced separation.

Inspired by this reunion, officials at Catholic Charities are hoping they will be able to report more happy endings in the near future. The group is involved in seven active cases of trafficking victims waiting to be reunited with their children.

Two years ago Lucy Magambi told her harrowing story to The Catholic Advocate (see the Nov. 23, 2005 edition), speaking under the alias "Mary." She came to America in 2003 from Kenya to work for a family in Bergen County as a housekeeper and nanny. She left her young son Brian behind with the hopes of making a new life for them in the United States.

In the past month, a lot has been written and said about the two most recent announcements from the Vatican: the Holy Father's letter permitting wider use of the Latin Mass, and the document from the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith on the Church.

My office has received letters and phone calls about both items, and I have to say that, as often happens, the secular media has made far too much of the announcements. As a result, they have riled up Catholics and non-Catholics unnecessarily.

In fact, if I were to believe some of the letters and calls I have received, I'd say it might be time for all of us to start preparing for another round of religious warfare among Christians that would make the time of the Reformation look tame. Fortunately, this isn't the case. Let's look at the two announcements and what they really mean.

JERSEY CITY-Archbishop John J. Myers brought something very large into the Grand Banks Café on a Tuesday night in July: a spiritual concept of self discovery that challenges a person to "give themselves away" in order to discover the roadmap for a life journey.

As soon as the publication of the Pope's new book, "Jesus of Nazareth," was announced earlier this year (see The Catholic Advocate, May 23), the immediate reaction of many Catholics was one of eager anticipation.

SECAUCUS-Five thousand Catholics from across North America converged at the Meadowlands Exposition Center June 22-24 for the Conference of Charismatic Renewal, a celebration of the 40th anniversary of the passionate spiritual movement.

A spiritual journey that began two decades ago at Our Lady of Mercy Parish in Park Ridge has led Thomas Garofalo to the Holy Land. Garofalo, who participated in youth activities at his parish, has been a representative for Catholic Relief Services (CRS) in the Holy Land for the past two years.

Mentors Offer Healthcare Career Advice

MONTCLAIR-Fifteen Immaculate Conception High School seniors recently participated in the Senior Hospital and Research Experience (SHARE) program at nearby Mountainside Hospital.

Archbishop Emeritus Peter L. Gerety, who turns 95 next month, believes everything in life, including longevity, is a gift from God. Ordained on June 29, 1939 at Notre Dame Cathedral in Paris, the oldest of nine boys who grew up in Shelton, CT, has been a bishop for 41 years.

Archbishop Gerety recalls fondly that he became a bishop right after the sweeping changes enacted by the Second Vatican Council. It was a time he described as "a new era in the history of the Church" at both the "divine and human" levels.

When considering the breadth, scope and urgent need of international missionary work, the philosophy of thinking globally and acting locally is proven to have profound results.

Just ask a well-traveled missionary or someone who is dedicated to supporting the faith-based cause to provide hope in some of the most desperate corners of the world.

NEWARK-The Archdiocese of Newark will host the "Festival of Faith" on Sept. 29, a celebration of Catholicism that will be held at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, 89 Ridge St.

The festival, which begins at 10 a.m. and ends with a Mass at 6 p.m., will include music and cultural celebrations at Barringer High School as well as events at the Archdiocesan Center. The high school and the center both are located adjacent to the cathedral.

In the first effort of its kind by any faith group in the state, the New Jersey Catholic Conference (NJCC) launched an initiative with the statewide Maternal and Child Consortia to educate clergy, Religious and lay professionals in New Jersey's 684 parishes to recognize the warning signs of Postpartum Depression (PPD).

At the press conference, held in Newark May 25 in the Archdiocesan Center, Archbishop John J. Myers said he was proud to be a part of this new venture, which he hopes will be a model for other religious groups in the state and across the nation.

AREA-The 2007 Archbishop's Annual Appeal (AAA), as it nears the midway point of the campaign, has garnered 2,500 more donors and received $700,000 more in pledges compared with the equivalent period last year.

Last year the AAAcampaign registered a final collection of $10 million with a 1-percent increase in the overall number of donors. Pledge Week, which opened the 2007 AAA program, was launched at archdiocesan parishes on Feb. 3 (see The Catholic Advocate, Jan. 24).

With the ordination of 13 men to the priesthood on May 26 at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart, the Archdiocese of Newark-for the second consecutive year- led the nation with the largest ordination class.

BAYONNE-Being more environmentally responsible is not only a talking point for politicians, it spurs the imagination of youngsters hoping to better their world.

Liam Kiniery, 12, a student at Saint Vincent de Paul School, was the grand-prize winner in "Be an Agent for Change," a national contest sponsored by Time for Kids magazine. The children designed pamphlets on how to save resources and conserve energy.

ELIZABETH-Sister Mariette Therese Bernier, O.S.B., professed her final vows of the Benedictine monastic way of life (stability, obedience and fidelity to the monastic way of life) during a special Mass on April 28 held at Saint Walburga Monastery.

Argentina, Philippines, Poland Serve as Starting Points of Faith Journeys

Reflecting the rich cultural and ethnic diversity of the Archdiocese of Newark, Archbishop John J. Myers will ordain 13 new priests on Saturday, May 26 at 10 a.m. in the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. After leading the nation last year with 17 ordinands (see The Catholic Advocate, May 24, 2006), the Archdiocese of Newark is again among the leaders with this year's class.

"This achievement of the archdiocese is the fruit of much prayer, effort and commitment," Father Brian Plate, the director of vocations for the Archdiocese of Newark, said, citing the Class of 2007. "The perseverance of these men is a tribute to their faith and the formation and faculty of our seminary."

Teens, Young Adults Gather to Share Faith Experiences

KEARNY-Nearly 200 teenagers and young adults from across the Archdiocese of Newark gathered here at the Archdiocesan Youth Retreat Center on April 20-22 to attend Rejoice 2007.

The event was a chance to unplug from the distractions of the outside world and focus on faith. Instead of iPods, cell phones or MySpace, those attending the retreat opted to spend time in the presence of the Eucharist and in the company of other young people. All those who gathered were searching for one thing: a closer relationship with Jesus.

NEWARK-The Cathedral Concert Series and the New York Opera Society will present the first opera ever performed at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart on Thursday, May 24, at 7:30 p.m.

The production will feature Metropolitan Opera mezzo-soprano Barbara Dever along with the Cathedral Choir and Symphony Orchestra, conducted by John J. Miller and under the stage direction of Will Bryan. The performance has been made possible in part by a grant from The Valparaiso Project, an organization that develops resources to help others live their faith with vitality and integrity in changing times.

Every day in this great archdiocese, literally thousands of Catholic men and women work closely with parish pastors through pastoral and financial councils and committees. In today’s world, the operation of a parish is a very complex undertaking.

Pastors are fortunate when they can rely upon the advice and support of experienced laypeople who bring to the service of the Church the skills they use in the world within which Jesus has called us to minister.

CALDWELL-Immaculee Ilibagiza stood before 600 people on the stage of the Caldwell College student center auditorium and discussed how the power of prayer saved her life 13 years ago.

It was, she admitted, a simple message, but one that was born out of living through a complex nightmare of mayhem and death.

SOUTH ORANGE-Over bright lights, pounding guitars and screaming fans, an animated bald man in heavy makeup and black leather sings to an adoring crowd in a music video filmed in the 1980s.

A few years later, the same man sings-this time, with an acoustic guitar in hand, wearing plain jeans and a T-shirt and surrounded by a belting choir.

BALTIMORE (CNS)-Calling teachers "the greatest artists in the world," Pope Benedict XVI's representative to the United States opened the annual National Catholic Educational Association (NCEA) convention in Baltimore on April 10 with praise for the "special qualities of mind and heart" that educators bring to their work.

AREA - Students at three schools in the Archdiocese of Newark are learning valuable lessons on faithfully protecting the Earth and its environment.

Our Lady of the Lake School (OLL) in Verona, Resurrection School in Jersey City and Demarest's Academy of the Holy Angels High School were selected to participate in a yearlong collaborative statewide pilot project designed to encourage environmental leadership.

SOUTH ORANGE-The role of Mary in the modern world and her role in shaping the character of women were the main points discussed at the annual Women's Day of Reflection, which was held March 31 at Seton Hall University.

Originally founded to provide for the spiritual needs of area Polish parishioners, Our Lady of Mount Carmel Parish was established in Nutley on March 4, 1925. Archbishop John J. O'Connor appointed Rev. John Alexius Ivanow as the first pastor.

Celebrating Mass at such a painful time as a funeral can be trying for any priest. However, Father Joseph Ferraro, who administers homilies at Holy Cross Mausoleum, North Arlington, relies on Scripture and his own personal experiences to both enlighten and comfort those who have lost someone.

The death of a loved one, regardless of culture or ethnicity, seems to set in motion a flurry of activity that usually results in what is termed "the gathering of the clan."

ALLENDALE-The first stage of a strategic healthcare initiative to encourage the state's Catholic hospitals to donate umbilical cord and placenta blood to further adult stem-cell research has been accomplished.

AREA-The Archdiocese of Newark will host its semiannual Heritage Tour on Saturday, April 14, an all-day bus excursion that will visit four treasured churches in Hoboken, Jersey City and Bayonne.

YouthFest, which runs from 10 a.m. to 6 p.m., will feature singer/song writer/story teller Steve Angrisano. The theme of the event will be "Go Make a Difference," an affirmation that faith-filled young adults have the capacity to change the world.

The St. Helen Parish community is active, multifaceted, and known for its numerous outreach efforts, its vibrant liturgical celebrations and programs for children and adults.

Parishioners across the Archdiocese of Newark began the charity work of their Lenten season by contributing to a very worthy cause: retired priests.

The most dramatic moment of the journey came when the group visited The Church of the Holy Sepulcher, traditionally identified as the site where Jesus was crucified and where Christianity literally marks its origins.

Along with 22 other seminarians, John Carlos De Sousa visited historical religious sites in Jerusalem. The seminary organizes trips every few years to religiously significant areas. De Sousa attended the last ICS trip to Greece two years go.

JERSEY CITY-The presidents of three Catholic colleges gathered at Saint Peter's College last November to discuss the identity, mission and challenges facing Catholic higher education.

Former Saint Peter's College president James Loughran S.J., who passed away on Dec. 24 (see The Catholic Advocate, Jan. 10), hosted the panel discussion with Charles L. Flynn, Jr., president of the College of Mount Saint Vincent (Riverdale, NY) and Sister Rosemary E. Jeffries, RSM, from Georgian Court University in Lakewood.

Seen in the context of Catholic Schools Week (see the special section in this edition), their observations offered additional perspective on the upper tier of Catholic education and how the work of a college or university is connected with the faith-based mission that is nurtured by elementary and secondary schools.

Resplendent in their robes, the Schola Cantorum from Queen of Peace High School takes time for the camera in front of St. Peter's Basilica.

NORTH ARLINGTON - When it was announced at Pope Benedict XVI's first audience of the new year that the "Schola Cantorum from Queen of Peace High School (QPHS), North Arlington, New Jersey" would perform a hymn for the Holy Father, it was an illuminating moment that senior Maggie Stroedecke knew she would never forget.

Stroedecke and her classmates made what was dubbed a "Heart of Italy" trip Dec. 28 to Jan. 4-a musical tour that included stops in Rome, Vatican City, the Catacombs and Assisi (see The Catholic Advocate, Dec. 6).

In addition to performing at the papal audience, the archdiocesan young people were the principle choir at a Latin Mass at the Altar of the Chair in St. Peter's Basilica on New Year's Day in addition to singing at a Jan. 2 Mass at the Basilica of St. Francis in Assisi.