The following parishes, schools and organizations in the Diocese of Trenton have announced these upcoming events:
Burlington County
Burlington Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a “Game Show Palooza” May 5 in the council home, 336 E. Broad St., Burlington. Doors open at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $20 for adults. Children are free. Coffee and cake will be served. To purchase tickets in advance or at the door, call 732-832-5798.
Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle, holds Eucharistic Adoration every Wednesday following the 9 a.m. Mass until 4 p.m. in the daily chapel. Benediction is at 4 p.m. Adoration will be extended to 8 p.m. on April 9 for Holy Hour Adoration.
Mary, Mother of the Church Parish Food Pantry, Bordentown, is holding an Easter Ham Drive. Donations may be dropped off during pantry hours Monday-Wednesday-Friday from 2 to 3 p.m.; Tuesday and Thursday from 6 to 7 p.m. and Thursday from 9 to 10 a.m.
Mary, Mother of the Church Parish Bereavement Ministry, Bordentown, will hold a six-week session from April 9 to May 21 in the afternoon from 2 to 3:30 p.m. or in the evening from 6:30 to 8 p.m. The afternoon group will meet in the Resurrection Room on the campus of the Holy Assumption worship site. The evening group will meet in St. Mary School, Bordentown. Dates and topics to be presented are: April 9, “The Search for Acceptance: Beginning the Journey;” April 16, “Bumps Along the Way: The Emotional Journey;” April 23, “Is This The Right Road? Adjusting to the Journey;” April 30, “The Search for Meaning: The Spiritual Journey;” May 7, “The Search for Connectedness: The Continuing Journey;” May 14, “The Search for Reconciliation: Does the Journey End?” On May 21, a luncheon will be held at 2 p.m. To attend any of the six sessions, call 609-298-0261 or bereavement@mmotcp.org.
Our Lady of Good Counsel School, Moorestown, will hold a fashion show May 15 at 5:30 p.m. in The Merion, Cinnaminson. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.olgc.me/fashionshow.
Our Lady Queen of Peace Council, Knights of Columbus, Hainesport, will host its 10th annual golf outing May 2 at the Golden Pheasant Golf Club, Lumberton. Proceeds will benefit the parish’s and council’s charities which include Good Counsel Homes, Options for Her, Send a Hero Home, Mission of Honor and urgent disaster relief efforts. The $150 entry fee includes golf with a cart, lunch, buffet dinner and prizes. Lunch and registration begin at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Click here for registration form and additional information.
Sacred Heart Parish Catholic Daughters collects baby items for First Way of Burlington County. Needed items include diapers, baby clothing, formula, blankets. Maternity clothing is also accepted. Items may be left at the side altar nearest the ramp in Sacred Heart Church.
Sacred Heart Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference Food Pantry, Mount Holly, operates Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon and Monday and Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8 p.m. the conference serves resident of Springfield and Mansfield Townships Mount Holly, Hainesport, Lumberton, Eastampton and Westampton. Persons in need of food or financial aid should call 609-267-9600 and leave name and phone number. Intake is handled via phone only.
Sacred Heart Church, Riverton, will serve as the site of Ensemble Sangiento In Concert May 17 at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7. Tickets are $20 and proceeds benefit the Artists. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets may be purchased at circleoffriendsconcerts.org.
Sacred Heart Parish, Riverton, will host a baby shower celebrating the mothers of Good Counsel Homes May 18. Gifts of bottles, diapers, wipes, clothes of all sizes from 0 to 4T are suggested.
St. Isaac Jogues Parish, Marlton, will hold an American Red Cross Blood Drive May 13 from 2 to 7 p.m. in the parish hall. To schedule an appointment, call 800-733-2767 or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter “St Isaac”.
St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton, will hold its 16th annual Golf Classic May 9 at Indian Spring Country Club, Marlton. Registration begins at 11:30 a.m. with a shotgun start at 1 p.m. Fee is $200 per player and includes lunch, dinner and golf. To attend dinner only is $60. For additional information and sponsorship opportunities call 856-912-6192.
St. Katharine Drexel Parish Food Pantry, Burlington, provides food and personal hygiene products to residents of Burlington City and Burlington Township who meet income specifications and/or receive public assistance, unemployment benefits or disability benefits. In addition, registered parishioners experiencing food shortages are encouraged to contact the pantry for assistance. The pantry is open every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m., except for Thanksgiving week when the pantry is open on Monday. Currently, the pantry is not in need of volunteers but persons wishing to assist when needed, can leave a message by calling 609-386-3650.
St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will hold a “Chip in for Charity” golf tournament to benefit the homeless, less fortunate, women in crisis and children June 16 at Medford Lakes Country Club. Proceeds will benefit Medford’s St. Vincent de Paul conference, Promise of Burlington County and 1st Way of Burlington County. Golf registration is $225 per person or $240 after April 8 and includes golf with cart, lunch, beverages on the course, hors d’oeuvres and dinner. Also included are prizes for top teams, closest to the pin, longest drive, hole-in-one car, putting contest prize and mulligan tickets. For questions about registration, donating merchandise and sponsorship opportunities, email billschmidt902@gmail.com.
St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, Medford, is holding a 16-week series to prepare high school students to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation as well as adults with a deeper understanding or the Catholic faith. Classes are held on Sundays from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. Class dates are Nov. 25, Dec. 15, Jan. 5, 12, 19 and 26, Feb. 2, 16, 23, March 2, 9, 23, 30, April 6, 13, May 4 and 18. Presenters are parish clergy and staff. To attend, email father_dan@smlparish.org or sign up in the parish parking lot entrance.
Mercer County
Hamilton Council, Knights of Columbus, collects clothing throughout the year. Donations may be placed in the two navy bins located on the parish campus. All clothing, shoes, sneakers, textiles, linens, bedding and handbags are accepted. Donations should be in decent, reusable condition and securely bagged. No toys or household items. Donations are given to low-income areas abroad and in the United States. All donations benefit St. Gregory the Great Parish, Academy, Knights of Columbus and local families/programs in need in Mercer County.
Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville, will hold a spring open house May 7 from 5 to 7 p.m.
Princeton Pro-Life Club of Princeton University will host pro-life speaker Stephanie Gray Connors May 1 at 7 p.m. in McCosh 10 on the university campus. An accomplished speaker and author on topics of abortion and assisted suicide, Gray Connors has debated abortion advocates on several national stages, and has given more than 1,000 pro-life presentations worldwide over the past two decades. For more information, visit https://loveunleasheslife.com/about.
St. Ann Parish, Lawrenceville, is holding free “Decorative Craft Classes with Maria” for students in grades three to eight June 24, July 1, 29, Aug. 5 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the art room of the Faith Development Center. Classes are limited to 10 students per class. Registration forms may be found in the parish bulletin on the parish website. For more information, call 609-915-0211 or email MJFerris@gmail.com.
St. Ann School, Lawrenceville, will hold its first annual Golf Tournament June 3 at Mercer Oaks West Course, West Windsor. Registration and breakfast begin at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8. Golf will be followed by lunch and dessert. All proceeds benefit the school PTA and students. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For questions, call 609-287-8345 or email sasptagolf@gmail.com.
St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Hightstown, will hold a study group on Pope Francis’ encyclical “Laudato Si” – “Care For Our Common Home” on the following Tuesdays: April 22, 29, May 20 and 27 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Registration is recommended but walk-ins are welcome. To register, call 609-448-0141, ext. 25.
St. David the King Council, Knights of Columbus, Princeton Junction, will hold a Classic Car Show May 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the campus of St. David the King Parish. Vehicles of all classes will be featured. Trophies, food and music to be included. Registration takes place from 9 to 11 a.m. and fee is $20. For information, call 917-991-3751 or 609-213-5955.
St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction, will host a Mother’s Day Trivia Night May 10 from 5:15 to 8 p.m. Trivia will feature categories such as sports, music movies and pop culture and hosted by a professional trivia group. A buffet dinner and shared desserts will be included. No admission fee. The parish will hold a collection of diapers and baby wipes the weekend of May 10-11. Diapers sizes 4-6 are especially needed. A diaper collection box will be in the gathering space of the church before and after all Masses. Donations will be given to HOmeFront
St. Gregory the Great Academy, Hamilton Square, will hold its first annual SGGA Golf Outing May 13 at Mountain View, Ewing. Registration and breakfast begins at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8. Cost is $200 per golfer. Registration deadline is April 25. For information, call 856-296-1689 or SGGA_Golf@sggacademy.org.
St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, will hold a six-week Bible Study, “Into His Likeness” May 1-June 5. Morning sessions will be held at 9:30 a.m. in the E Center and in the evening at 7 p.m. in the parish center. The study will be a video series led by noted Scripture scholar Dr. Edward Sri. Cost is $20 per person. To register, forms may be found in the parish bulletin or by filling out the form at StGregorytheGreatChurch.org/Likeness. A presentation, “The Road to Canonization” will be presented April 30 at 7 p.m. in Ferrante Hall. Presenter Kyle Thompson, who holds a master of arts in theology and is the parish religious education coordinator, will explore the meaning of sainthood, the canonization process and feature examples of the lives of select saints, illustrating how all are called to holiness.
St. Paul Parish, Princeton, will host Mary Ann Glendon, former U.S. Ambassador to the Holy See, for its St. Paul Presents Speaker Series at 7 p.m. April 29 in the spiritual center under the church at 214 Nassau Street. A Learned Hand Professor of Law, emerita, at Harvard University, Glendon will speak on “The Holy See as a Political Actor.” All are welcome to attend this free presentation. More information on Glendon can be found at https://hls.harvard.edu/faculty/mary-ann-glendon/.
St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish Bereavement Support, Hamilton, meets on the first Tuesday of the month from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Spiritual Center. The meetings provide an environment that allows individuals the freedom to share stories and faith experiences. Support groups provide safety, community, spiritual consolation, understanding and opportunities for growth beyond the pain and sorrow of grief. For more information, call 609-890-1011.
The Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley will a diaper drive May 3-11. Size five and six diapers are needed and may be dropped off at any of the three parishes. For questions, email kmoore@stjamespennington.org.
Monmouth County
Christ the King Parish, Long Branch, will hold a presentation on Blessed Carlo Acutis and the Eucharist May 3 at 1 p.m. in Holy Trinity Church, Long Branch. The gathering will include song and prayer, a PowerPoint on the Eucharistic Miracles; testimony of personal healing; Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.
Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will host a showing of “The Chosen” Season One will take place on four Wednesdays, Feb. 19, March 26, April 16 and May 14 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Two episodes will be shown per month. Prayer and discussions will be included. Fee is $65. Online sessions on “Meeting Christ in Prayer: Experience of the Spiritual Exercises” will be held on the following Monday evenings from 7 to 8:30 p.m.: March 10, 17, 24, 31, April 7, 14, 21 and 28. The program is a shortened version of the Exercises of St. Ignatius of Loyola. Participants will be invited to pray for 30 minutes each day. Fee is $150. A presentation, “Wisdom of St. Hildegarde of Bingen” will take place May 2 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. A short video on the life of St. Hildegard will show her wisdom as a doctor of the Church, an abbess, a visionary, a healer, a writer and composer and artist. Presenters are Jill Snyder and Jeanne Sundberg. Fee is $35 and includes lunch or $30 for online participants. A presentation on Thomas Merton, Delight In The Beauty of Creation, will be held May 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants will reflect on Merton’s nature writings collected in “When the Trees Say Nothing.” Fee for in-person participants is $25 and includes lunch or $20 for online. A personal retreat day will be offered May 7 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The day will include time for silence, personal prayer and optional spiritual direction. Participants should bring a bag lunch. Fee is $10 or $40 with spiritual direction. A five-day Silent Directed Retreat will be offered June 15 starting at 6:30 p.m. to June 20 at 10 a.m. To register, visit FHOP@verizon.net; call 609-877-0509 or visit FHOP.org.
Freehold Birthright, an organization that assists girls, women, families, during their pregnancy and after the baby is born, is in need of prolife volunteers. Training will be provided; volunteers who speak Spanish are encouraged. To volunteer, call 732-462-2888 during office hours Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. or email freehold@birthright.org. The agency is also in need of baby clothes which are gently used, stain free, seasonal appropriate, sizes newborn to 18 months. The agency is located at 41 E. Main St.
Freehold Council, Knights of Columbus, is collecting used and unused eyeglasses for the Lions Club. Eyeglasses may be deposited in the drop-off baskets located at the main entrances of St. Rose of Lima Church and Chapel, Freehold. The council will host a Cinco de Mayo celebration May 2 at 7 p.m. in the council home, 70 E. Main St., Freehold, starting at 6:30 p.m. Fee is $25 per person and includes dinner and music. Reservations are required. Call 908-839-2160.
Holy Cross Academy, Rumson, will hold its third annual golf outing May 19 at Beacon Hill Country Club. For more information, visit hcarumson.org/golf.
Holy Innocents Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Neptune, is in need of non-perishable items, paper products, personal hygiene products, and cleaning supplies. The pantry is open after the 4 p.m. Mass on Saturday and after the 10 a.m. and noon Masses. The conference provides assistance to the needy of the Neptune area with rent, utilities and other basic necessities. Persons in need of assistance can call 732 922-4242, ext. 124.
Jesus the Lord Council, Knights of Columbus, will host a spaghetti dinner May 9 in Our Lady of Fatima cafeteria. Fee is $18 for adults; $14 for seniors and children ages 7-13, and no charge for children under age six. Proceeds will benefit The New Jersey Blind Citizens Association .
Mercy Center, Asbury Park, is in need of donations of canned soup; diapers size 4 and larger; baby wipes; coffee/tea; mayonnaise; mustard; ketchup, and salad dressing. Donations of clothing are no longer being collected.
Mother of Mercy Parish, Asbury Park, will hold a Women’s Gathering May 3 from 10 a.m. to noon in the parish chapel and conference room. The May program is “Hope After The Resurrection: The Story of Mary Magdala, Apostle to the Apostles” and will include time for reflection, prayer and spiritual enrichment. Simple refreshments will be served and a free-will offering will be collected. Reservations are recommended. Text or call 201-259-4294.
Our Lady of Fatima Bereavement Ministry, Keyport, holds bereavement sessions for persons grieving the loss of a loved one on Monday at 7 p.m. in the parish center bereavement room. To attend, contact the office at 732-264-0322.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help-St. Agnes Parish, Atlantic Highlands, will hold a Mother’s Day Tea Party May 3 from 2 to 4 p.m. in St. Agnes Church hall. Tickets are $30 and are available in the parish office. A flower bar, hat contest, tea and sweets will be included. For information, call 732-291-0272.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help-St. Agnes Parish Book Club, Atlantic Highlands, will meet May 7 at 1 p.m. in the pastor’s room in St. Agnes Church Hall, Atlantic Highlands. The group will reflect on Bishop Robert Barron’s “Seeds of the Word: Finding God in the Culture.” For information, call 732-291-8804.
Red Bank Council, Knights of Columbus will hold a pasta dinner fundraiser to support Catholic education and honor Mother’s Day May 10 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Columbus Club, 200 Fair Haven Rd., Fair Haven. Tickets are $20 for adults; $10 for children ages 9 and under, and no fee for mothers. Tickets ca be purchased by mailing a check to KOC Council 3187, c/o Jack Hayes, 218 Kemp Ave., Fair Haven, N.J. 07704 or use the QR code in the parish bulletin. For questions on ad journal sponsorships or on the dinner, call 732-320-5192 or 551-206-5706. The council raises money each year for the Father Michael J. McGivney Grant Fund. Each year grans are issued to Holy Cross Parish, Rumson; Nativity Parish, Fair Haven; Red Bank Catholic High School and Trinity High School.
San Alfonso Retreat House, West End, will hold the 14th Annual Retreat of St. Catharines Classics will be held May 6 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the retreat house. Presenter is Redemptorist Father Jim Dowds. Cost is $65 per person and includes breakfast and lunch. Make checks payable to St. Catharine Parish and mail to Tom and Isabella Maguire, 1913 Kwansan Court, Toms River, N.J. 08755. For information, call 732-341-2496.
Selective Seconds, the Furniture Ministry of St. Rose Parish, Belmar, operates Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Proceeds from the sales of the high-quality, new and gently used furniture and home décor benefit the parish St. Vincent de Paul Society which assists people in need. the stores is in need of more volunteers to help with furniture pick-up and deliveries on Mondays from 8 to 11 a.m. Volunteers are also needed to work in the store. For more information, visit www.selectivesecondsfurniture.com.
St. Benedict Food Pantry, Holmdel, is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 to 6 p.m.; Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m., and Saturdays by appointment. is in need of donations of the following items: diapers (all sizes especially 5 and 6), baby food (stages 2/3), baby wipes, children’s cereal and snacks, coffee and tea, juice for adults and children, soup, bar soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes and mouthwash, laundry detergent, dish detergent, paper products – toilet tissue, paper towels.
St. Catharine-St. Margaret Rosary Prayer Group, Spring Lake, prays the Rosary on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. in the chapel of St. Catharine Church. All are welcome to attend. For more information, call 732-449-4424, ext. 208.
St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake, will host an 11-part Bible Study on the Book of James. Sessions will be held April 23 to July 7 in St. Margaret Church from 10 to 11:30 a.m. or online at 7 p.m. The study will feature Scripture scholar Jeff Cavins. Registration fee is $50 per person. Send payment to Kathy Ramus, 1317 Curtis Ave., Point Pleasant, N.J. 08742. Make checks payable to St. Catharine Spirituality. For questions, call 914-393-2299.
St. Denis Bereavement Support Group, Manasquan, meets on Thursdays. Morning sessions are from 10 to 11 a.m. in the parish office conference room. For questions or to attend, call 732-223-0287 or email eileenziesmer@gmail.com.
St. Denis Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference Food Pantry, Manasquan, is accepting donations of the following items: laundry detergent (50 oz or less), dish detergent, macaroni and cheese, beef stew and small cans of fruit. The pantry is located in Msgr. O’Connor Hall. The pantry operates on Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. Items may also be left in the shopping cart in the gathering space of the church or in the plastic box at the beach chapel. Cash and check donations are welcome and can be left in the envelopes with the donated food. Indicate “Food Pantry” in the memo line of the checks. For questions or special food needs, call 732-223-1383.
St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, will serve as the site of a Mother’s Memorial Mass for mothers and their families who have suffered the loss of a child of any age (before birth, stillbirth, infancy, childhood, adulthood) May 13 at 7 p.m. in St. Denis Church, Manasquan. A gathering with refreshments will follow. The Mass is sponsored by the Elizabeth Ministries of St. Denis Parish and St. Dominic Parish, Brick. For questions, contact thehendricks7@gmail.com.
St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, will mark the feast of St. Anthony of Padua with a festival June 13. The evening will include food, games and camaraderie. For more information, call 732-223-2087.
St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro, prays a Patriotic Rosary every Wednesday evening from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the church hall. Prayers are offered for the Executive (president), Judicial (Supreme Court) and Legislative (Senate and House of Representatives) branches. Prayers are also offered for active U.S. Military as well as veterans and emergency personnel.
St. Gabriel Parish, St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Marlboro, is collecting the following items: laundry detergent, dish detergent, paper towels, toilet paper, toothpaste, canned chicken, spaghetti sauce, canned vegetables, macaroni & cheese (box mixes), mashed potato flakes, peanut butter, rice, grape jelly, spaghetti /pasta, cereals that are kid friendly. Persons who are in need in the Marlboro/Morganville area or are members of the parish, call the conference hotline at 732-946-4487, ext. 240 and leave a message for the intake coordinator. All calls are kept confidential.
St. Joseph Council, Knights of Columbus, Keyport, will hold a Sunday Breakfast May 11 from 8 a.m. to noon. Cost is $12 for adults; $11 for seniors and kids ages 10 and under eat free. proceeds benefit various charities.
St. Joseph Parish, Millstone Township, will celebrate the Stations of the Resurrection May 9 at 7 p.m. The Stations of Light will follow Jesus from the Resurrection to Pentecost.
St. Leo the Great Athletic Association, Lincroft, will hold its annual Golf Outing May 19 at Suneagles Golf Course, Eatontown. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., followed by breakfast from 8 to 9, and tee off at 9. Lunch will follow. Cost is $325 per person and includes greens fees, golf cart, lunch and breakfast. Mail or drop off payment to: St. Leo the Great, ATTN: Anthony Biancaniello, 550 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, N.J. 07738. For questions, call/text 732-921-2175 or 732-233-6321.
St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, will host, “Rhythm Church,” which uses drumming to experience prayer and community. Sessions will be held April 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27 and June 3 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Registration is limited to 10 people. Sign up at https://stleothegreat.com/rhythm-church.
St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, will hold a 12-week support group for separated and divorced persons. The program begins March 6 and runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the parish center meeting room. The program is led by trained and certified facilitators who are divorced and have completed the program. To register, email healingheartsfromdivorce@gmail.com. For more information, on the program, visit https://www.mylifechangecoach.com/divorceministry.
St. Leo the Great Social Concerns Committee, Lincroft, will hold a Mary’s Cradle Collection May 17-18. Items for babies will be collected and donated to Birthright of Red Bank and Madonna House, Neptune. Items needed include diapers sizes newborn to 6, wipes, toiletries, summer wear, summer hats and sandals, crib sheets, layettes and onesies sizes 0 to 4T.
St. Mark Social Concerns Committee, Sea Girt, is collecting travel-size toiletry items (soap, shampoos, toothpaste, toothbrushes, combs, etc.) to be delivered to persons in need in the Asbury Park area. Containers are located at the church entrances. The committee is resuming the Frozen Meals Program to benefit the Center in Asbury Park, a volunteer-based New Jersey not-for-profit organization providing support services for people living with HIV/AIDS and their caregivers since 1992. Prospective donors can pick up food trays and lids found next to the kitchen refrigerator in Father Child’s Hall in the parish basement; fill the trays with generous portions of food; label the tray lids with the contents and date of preparation, and return the meals to the freezer compartment of the refrigerator. The meals will be delivered to The Center by parish volunteers. For questions, call 732-449-5656.
St. Mary Parish Confirmation Prep, Colts Neck, is hosting Blessing Bag Outreach, a spring service project through May 3. The project’s goal is to assist the homeless and educate the public. Each grade is requesting the following donations: men’s socks and travel size lotion (8th grade); travel size deodorant and disposable razors (7th grade); small (8oz) water bottles (6 th grade); travel size shampoo (5th grade); travel size toothpaste (4th grade); toothbrushes (3rd grade); snackbars/breakfast bars (2nd grade); soap/travel size body wash (1st grade). All donations should be dropped off in Madonna Hall. Deadline is May 3 at 8 a.m.
St. Mary Parish, Middletown, will hold a First Friday Healing Mass May 2 at 6:30 p.m.
St. Michael Parish, West End, will hold a five-week Spring Bible Study on the First Book of Samuel on following Thursdays in May: 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 in the lower church. Morning sessions will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and evening sessions will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. To reserve a seat and study guide, call 732-222-3614. Participants should bring a Bible.
St. Michael Parish, West End, will hold “St. Michael’s by the Sea Day” June 25. The day begins with Mass in the church at 8 a.m. and followed by an outdoor snack. Bus will depart for Sandy Hook at 9 a.m. and returns approximately 2 p.m. Cost is $25 and includes lunch. The day is open to school-age children and their family. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.
St. Rose Parish Thomas Merton Discussion Group, Belmar, meets online on the first Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. The group is currently reflecting on The Road to Joy: Letters to New and Old Friends, Volume 2, of Merton’s published correspondence. To join the group email GJRyan@WCCM.org or call 732-681-6238.
St. Rose of Lima School, Freehold, has partnered with New Legacy Books and is accepting donations of used books. Donations may be left in the bin located in the car rider parking lot. The school will receive a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the books.
St. Veronica Parish, Howell, will hold a beefsteak fundraiser May 31 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Tickets are $40 and includes salad, pasta, French fries, beefsteak and dessert. Purchase tickets online at stveronica.com or scan QR code in parish bulletin or visit the parish office.
St. William the Abbot Parish, Howell, accepts donations of used eye glasses to benefit the Joe Mazzarella Eye Glass Donation Program. Donations may be placed in the receptacle located in the parish hall. All eye glasses are donated to the Eyes for Needy Program.
Ocean County
Catholic Women of Zion Chapter 2 will gather May 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in St. Mary of the Pines Church, Manahawkin. With “Finding True Meaning and Purpose in the Many Seasons of Our Lives as Women” as the theme, the day will begin with Mass celebrated by Msgr. Kenard Tuzeneu, pastor of St. Mary Parish. Speaker will be Joanne Leichte, a retired nurse of 44 years who worked in Southern Ocean Medical Center in Outreach, the Office of Patient Experience and Human Experience Educator and Coach for the Hackensack Meridian Health Southern Region. In 1997, she co-founded and serves as president of Interfaith Health and Support services of Southern Ocean County Inc. Admission is $25 and includes boxed lunch. Pay at the door by reservations are necessary and can be made by visiting www.cwoz.org or by calling 732-475-7113 no later than May 13.
Epiphany Parish’s Bereavement Support Group offers peer support for those grieving the death of a loved one. Six sessions are offered during which information is provided and mutual sharing and peer support is presented in a spiritual, caring and confidential setting. For more information, call 732-458-0220.
Epiphany Parish Helping Hands, Brick, operates a food pantry on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon. Donations of the following are needed: meat/chicken/pork/hamburgers, pancake mix and syrup, canned pasta, brown rice, jars of pasta sauce, assorted canned beans, butter, eggs, soup, jelly, coffee, frozen vegetables, fresh fruit and vegetables, snacks, cooking oil, tea, canned tuna.
Epiphany Parish, Brick, holds a Healing Mass from September to May. Prayers and reflection begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by Mass at 7 and then Adoration and prayers of healing. The next Healing Mass will be May 16.
Epiphany Parish’s HOPE Wellness Ministry, Brick, meets every first Wednesday of the month to discuss wellness for maturing adults. The program focuses more than health practices such as diet and exercise; psychological power and spiritual strength to achieve optimal health in body, mind and spirit are included. The next meeting will be May 14 following the 9 a.m. Mass.
Ken’s Kitchen is a free social lunch program sponsored by St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, which welcomes people of all faiths from Barnegat and surrounding communities. Ken’s Kitchen operates each Thursday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the parish center for coffee, followed by informative speakers and entertainment. Soup and lunch will be served from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Meals are available for take-out after 11:30. Free bread and baked goods are distributed as well. Parish nurses are available twice per month for blood pressure screenings. For more information, call 609-618-9381.
Rev. Gebhard Braungart Council, Ladies Auxiliary, will hold an International Cuisine Buffet Dinner May 31 from 6 to 9 p.m. in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish Center, Lavallette. Tickets are $25 per person and includes water, soda, coffee, tea and dessert. To attend, return form found in parish bulletin with payment to Pat Carolan, 113 Kittiwake Ave., Lavallette, N.J. 08735 no later than May 19. Make checks payable to KOC Ladies Auxiliary. For additional information, call/text 908-392-1638.
Simon’s Soup Kitchen will hold its annual spring gala May 17 from 6 to 10 p.m. in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Center, Seaside Heights. Tickets are $45 per person and must be purchased by May 1. Tickets include buffet dinner and dancing. For tickets, call 732-270-5941.
St. Aloysius Parish, Jackson, will hold an Icon Painting Workshop June 9-14. Open to beginners or advanced artists, the workshop will focus on the techniques of writing (painting) icons in a clear and concrete way. During the course, participants will write the icon of the Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus. Registration is required and space is limited. For registration information, email theodoreicons.com/Jackson.
St. Aloysius Parish Christian Book Study, Jackson, meets the first and third Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. in the parish meeting room. The group selects books with the goal to learn more about the Catholic faith, focusing on topics such as the Trinity, the Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus, the history of salvation before and after the Birth of Jesus, the inspired Word of God written in the Bible, the works of Jesus that led to Christianity. The next book of study will be “The Acts of the Apostles.” Based on the Bible, the book tells the story of the Christian community after the Ascension of Jesus. It’s about Peter and Paul leading from Judaism to Christianity through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. For questions, call 862-432-9358.
St. Barnabas Parish Food Pantry, Bayville, is in need of the following donations: jars of pasta sauce, crackers, boxed rice, tea, baked beans, instant potatoes, toilet tissue, toiletries, coffee. Persons in need of food should call 732-269-2208, ext. 107.
St. Francis Food Pantry, Seaside Heights, is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. Donations of food may be left in the bin in the narthex of St. Pio of Pietrelcina Church, Lavallette. Donations may also be picked up by calling 732-606-3656.
St. Francis of Assisi Food Pantry, Long Beach Island, is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. The pantry provides a wide range of food items, personal hygiene products and cleaning supplies. Specialty options such as dairy free, gluten free and vegan products, along with baby formula and diapers are available. Spanish speaking staff are available. Items needed include: canned goods: chicken, tuna, soup, beef stew, chili, SpaghettiOs, pork & beans, black beans, kidney beans, corn & peas. Needed non-perishable items: cereal, oatmeal, pasta & jarred pasta sauce, pancake mix & syrup, snacks & instant mashed potatoes. Needed hygiene products: laundry detergent, bar soap/body wash, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper. Non-perishable food donations for the pantry can be dropped off in the designated bins at the Community Center entrance. Online monetary donations may be made through PayPal: www.stfranciscenterlbi.org/donate. To stay updated on the pantry’s services, text “PANTRY” to 833-511-0760.
St. Francis Community Center, Long Beach Island, will hold a spring vendor market May 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendor registration is open. The market will feature, arts, crafts, décor, jewelry, food and more. Admission is $3. For information, email midbella@stfrancislbi.org. A “Garden Party By The Sea Fashion Show” is scheduled for June 18 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at Bonnet Island Estate. Tickets will be available for purchase at the front desk or online at stfrancisparishlbi.org/fashion-show starting May 1. Tickets are $65.
St. John Parish Bereavement Support Group, Lakehurst, is available for those grieving a recent loss. For registration and details, call 732-657-6613. For information on joining the bereavement team, call 732-657-6613 or 732-657-6347.
St. John Parish COR-Sorority for Women, Lakehurst, meets every Friday from 1 to 2:45 p.m. Topics on faith are presented and snacks are served. A Holy Hour with the Sacrament of Reconciliation begins at 3 p.m.
St. John Parish Adult Choir, Lakehurst, will present, “What Wondrous Hope,” a cantata by Joseph Martin May 4 at 3 p.m. The work blends traditional hymnody with contemporary worship music, telling the story of Christ’s ministry, Passion and Resurrection through the narration by Pamela Stewart. Refreshments will follow in the church hall.
St. John Parish Respect Life Committee, Lakehurst, is hosting a drive to benefit Birthright and Open Door pregnancy centers. Items needed include: powder, lotion, shampoo, baby soap, diaper rash cream, Vaseline, wipes, baby towels, wash cloths and size large diapers. Items may be brought to the carriage container in the church hall.
St. John Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Lakehurst, are collecting the following items during Lent for its food pantry: coffee/tea, Chef Boyardee products, jarred pasta sauce. Food can be drooped in the blue bin in the church hall.
St. Joseph By The Sea Retreat House, South Mantoloking, will hold a weekend retreat May 2 starting at 5 p.m. and ending May 4 at 10:30. Theme is “Restore and Renew.” The program includes daily meditation, walks and fellowship. Mass will be celebrated. Presenter is Avita Kennedy. Cost is $400. A presentation, “Praying With Images of God In Sea, Sky, Earth and Wind,” will be held May 13 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mass and lunch are included. Presenter is Janice Santanello. Cost is $65.
St. Joseph Parish Carpenter Shop, Toms River, is open after all Sunday Masses from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 4:45 to 8 p.m. The shop is closed Mondays and is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Saturday after the Vigil Mass from 4:45 to 6:15 p.m. For information, call 732-349-0018, ext. 2248.
St. Luke Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Toms River, distributes food to those in need Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Food recipients must bring current identification and proof of residence. The food pantry is need of the following items: soups, meal in a can (ravioli, etc.), canned and dry beans, coffee, tea, toilet tissue, laundry detergent, soap and toothpaste. Donations may be placed in the wooden box in the narthex or by the parish office. Persons in need of financial assistance should call 732-244-3916.
St. Mary Academy, Manahawkin, will hold a clothing drive May 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parish center; May 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parish center and from 5 to 7 p.m. in Msgr. Reinbold Hall; May 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the parish center, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Msgr. Reinbold Hall. Tax receipts are available upon request. For questions, call 609-488-5432.
St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, holds Scripture sharing discussions every Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the rectory. Scripture Readings are reviewed for the upcoming Sunday. For more information, call 609-339-8969.
St. Mary Parish Barnegat, will host a seven-week Scripture Study on The Book of Revelation May 1 to June 12. Sessions will be held from 10 a.m. to noon. The study will use videos presented by Scripture scholar Jeff Cavins and participants will explore how the kingdom established by Christ in his Church is intimately connected with the kingdom of heaven, especially through the celebration of Mass. Registration takes place in the parish office in Barnegat. A second seven-week program on The Book of Revelation will take place in the fall. For more information on the program and to order the online book and videos for $6.95 or the workbook for $27.95, call 732-672-4762.
St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, Toms River, will host its 40th anniversary dinner dance Aug. 17 from 2 to 6 p.m. tickets are $30 and include music, dinner, dancing. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning June 7. For information, call 732-914-0300.
St. Monica Parish Social Concerns Ministry, Jackson, provides nonperishable food items to local families in need. The ministry is in need of the following items: assorted canned beans, canned vegetables, tuna, soups, tomato sauce, pasta, boxed potatoes, pancake mix and syrup, cereal, coffee, tea, sugar, flour.
St. Peter Altar-Rosary Society, Point Pleasant Beach, will hold a flea market April 26 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Lower Kolbe Hall. Items may be dropped off April 25 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Electronics, clothing and books are not being collected.
St. Pio of Pietrelcina Holy Name Society, Lavallette, will hold a “Doo Wop Saturday Night” with Jukebox Legends May 3 in the parish hall. Doors open at 6:15 p.m. with the show being held from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are $20 and can be made payable to St. Pio Holy Name Society. For information, call 732-259-3577, 732-995-0044, 908-672-6710 or 347-668-6046.
St. Theresa Parish Food Pantry, Little Egg Harbor, operates Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. For the month of April, donations of Jelly and ravioli are needed as well as Beefaroni, Hamburger Helper-type packaged items; rice side dishes, cake mixes and frosting, small jars of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, peanut butter, pancake syrup and mix, apple juice, pasta and canned soup.
Visitation Parish St. Vincent De Paul Society, Brick, hosts the “Blessings of Love Sandwich Project.” Every Tuesday afternoon at 5:30 p.m. in the parish hall, junior Vincentians and Mini-Vinnies gather with family, friends and neighbors to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the homeless. Persons wishing to donate items can ship to the Society at 730 Lynnwood Ave., Brick, N.J. 08723.
All parishes and schools are welcome to submit their events to Monitor-News@dioceseoftrenton.org.