The following parishes, schools and organizations in the Diocese of Trenton have announced these upcoming events:
Burlington County
Holy Eucharist Parish Food Pantry, Tabernacle, operates by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Persons in need of financial assistance or food and live in Chatsworth, Shamong, Southampton, Tabernacle or Vincentown, should call 609-268-0005 and leave their name, number and brief message on the type of assistance needed. All assistance and information provided remains confidential.
Medford Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold an American Red Cross blood drive June 7 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Emmaus Center of St. Mary of the Lakes Parish. To schedule an appointment, call 800-REDCROSS or email redcrossblood.org and use code 6520.
Our Lady of Good Counsel Music Ministry, Moorestown, will hold a spring concert, “Jesus Rocks,” June 8 at 3 p.m. Music from “Godspell” and “Jesus Christ Superstar” will be featured.
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 Parish, Riverton, will host a Comedy Night with Glen Tickle June 7 in the school. Doors open at 5 p.m. with dinner and show starting at 6. Tickets are $60 per person and are available by calling 856-829-0090.
St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton, is holding a Summer Clothing Drive to benefit Catholic Charities and other local organizations. On Saturdays, clothing may be dropped off in the back parking lot from 1 to the start of the 5: 30 p.m. Mass and on Sunday from 7:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. Needed items include gently used summer clothing for all ages. Shorts, shirts, tshirts, athletic shoes, new kids’ bathing suits, jeans, slacks, skirts, dresses, light-jackets, sandals. Please have donated items in bags, boxes or on hangers.
St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton, will hold a Pentecost Retreat June 7 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. With the theme, “Jesus Gives Hope Through His Spirit,” the retreat will begin with 9 a.m. Mass. Reservations are required. For more information, call 856-983-5434. To register, visit https://www.stjoans.org/retreat.
St. John Neumann Council, Knights of Columbus, Mount Laurel, will hold the Nick Zacchel’s Annual Golf Tournament June 20 at the Rancocas Golf Club, Willingboro. Fee is $115 and includes scramble format for golfers with a shotgun start at 8:30 a.m. Registration starts at 7:15 a.m. Lunch, prizes and refreshments on the golf course are included. To make a reservation by June 1, contact rbrown194444@gmail.com, 856-630-1792; 856-313-5804 or 609-230-5287. Checks should be made out to St. John Neumann Council 1436 KofC.
St. Kateri Tekakwitha Council, Knights of Columbus, Marlton, will hold its fourth annual Car Show June 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on the campus of St. Isaac Jogues Parish, Marlton. Food and music will be featured. All car makes and models can participate. Class winners and runners up will be named. Fee is $20 day of show only; admission is free for visitors. Car registration begins at 8:30 and winners announced at 1:30. Proceeds will benefit local charities. Registration forms may be found in the parish bulletin. Make check payable to Knights of Columbus #12229. For questions, call 856-397-8440 or email thefrasos@msn.com.
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.
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.
Lawrence Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a blood drive June 4 from 9 a.m. to 7 p.m. in the parish center.
St. Ann Parish, Lawrenceville, holds a “Food Drive Sunday” every second Sunday of the month. The drive is an effort to increase the nonperishable food items that are donated locally in Trenton to Mount Carmel Guild and Better Community Housing. Most needed items include white and brown rice; coffee, syrup and juices; canned peas and beans; pasta and tomato sauce; oil; cereal, oatmeal and pancake mixes; boxed macaroni and cheese; shelf-able milk; canned tuna, chicken, sardines and yams; dry soup mixes; peanut butter and jelly. Paper towels, soap, toothpaste, deodorant, dish soap, laundry detergent are also needed as well as ready-to-eat items for the homeless – protein/granola bars, trail mix, dried fruits, crackers and cheese/peanut butter packs, small bottled water and juice boxes.
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. 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.
St. Paul Parish, Princeton, holds “Sisters of Strength” Prayer Groups for high school and college-aged students. The gatherings offer young women an opportunity to meet new friends in a spiritual setting. For more information, email lsarubbi@stpaulsofprinceton.org.
St. Paul Parish, Princeton, collects non-perishable food items to benefit those in need. Bins to place items are on the parish campus and items are accepted at all weekend Masses.
St. Paul School, Princeton, partners in an ongoing fundraising program with the Princeton McCaffrey’s store where the retailer donates 1% of purchase to the school. Receipts from purchases at McCaffreys can be placed in an envelope labeled “McCaffrey’s receipts” and may be dropped off at the school office or placed in the basket located in the church vestibule during weekend Masses.
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.
St. Raphael-Holy Angels Jesus Our Good Shepherd Prayer Group, Hamilton, meets every Tuesday at 7 p.m. in the Spiritual Center Living Room. The evening includes worship, reflection, prayers and Scripture.
The Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley will hold a toy drive to benefit the Mercer County Catholic Youth Organization’s Summer Camp May 31-June 8. Items needed include beach toys, face paint, water balloons, hula hoops, jump ropes, dinosaur eggs excavation kits, glow sticks, bubbles, Jenga, Uno Flex and Flip and design pocketbook kits. Items will be collected in the three churches – St. James, Pennington; St. Alphonsus, Hopewell, and St. George, Titusville. For questions, call 908-310-8797 or email skibbees@aol.com. An afternoon of entertainment, “Cabaret” will take place June 1 at 2 p.m. in the gym of St. James Church, Pennington. Songs, refreshments and fellowship will be featured. Admission is free. For information, email hennessypat42@gmail.com.
Monmouth County
Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will host an In-Person Only Retreat Day June 4 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day begins and ends with brief prayer together. Fee is $10 per person or $40 per person with spiritual direction. Participants should bring a bag lunch. A five-day Silent Directed Retreat will be offered June 15 starting at 6:30 p.m. to June 20 at 10 a.m. A Silent Directed Retreat Weekend will be held Aug. 1 starting at 6:30 p.m. and ending Aug. 3 at noon. Mass, spiritual direction and optional contemplative prayer periods are included. Fee is $200 with a $100 non-refundable deposit. Full payment is required two weeks in advance of start date. A retreat, “God’s Call: The Meaning of Life” will be presented June 25 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Fee is $25 per person. An In-Person Only Silent Directed Retreat will be held Aug. 1 starting at 6:30 p.m., and ending Aug. 3 at noon. Liturgy, spiritual direction and optional prayer periods are included. Fee is $200 with a $100 non-refundable deposit. Full payment is required two weeks prior to the start of the retreat. A Seven-Day Centering Prayer Retreat will be held Aug. 3 starting at 6:30 p.m. to Aug. 10 at 10 a.m. Fee is $700 with a $100 non-refundable deposit. Full payment is required three weeks in advance of the start date. 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.
Holy Cross Parish, Rumson, will hold a presentation highlighting the 1700th anniversary of the Nicene Creed May 27 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the St. Joseph’s Room. The presentation will be led by Jim Knight, a parishioner who is studying to become a deacon. To register call 732-842-0348, ext. 208 by May 20.
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.
Mary Queen of the Knights Council, Knights of Columbus, will host a charity golf outing June 12 at Pebble Creek Golf Club, Colts Neck. Registration is $185 per person and includes green fees, golf carts, breakfast, lunch and refreshment cart. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Proceeds will benefit the works of the council. For information, visit knights816.org.
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.
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.
San Alfonso Retreat House, West End, will hold a presentation, “For the Love of God, and Sea … and Broadway” will be held June 30 from 5 to 9 p.m. The event will include dinner followed by a musical performance by Broadway entertainer Jenn Gambatese, who will sing and share stories in the spirit of gratitude for San Alfonso’s community and 100 years of retreat ministry. Gambatese is an actor, singer, teacher and writer who has had major roles in several Broadway shows including originating the role of Miranda Hillard in Mrs. Doubtfire. She made her Broadway debut in Footloose and also performed in School of Rock, Tarzan, Hairspray and All Shook Up. As a singer and concert performer, she has a solo album, Cockeyed Optimist. Fee is $150 per person or $875 for a table of six. Proceeds will benefit the retreat ministry at San Alfonso. To register, visit wwwsanalfonsoretreats.org/retreattobroadway or call 732-222-2731, ext. 140 or email info@sanalfonsoretreats.org.
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. Agnes Thrift Shop, Atlantic Highlands, is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; the second and fourth Saturdays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Donations are also accepted during these hours. For larger donations, call (732) 291–2156.
St. Anselm Parish, Tinton Falls, in collaboration with Waterspirit, will hold a 10th birthday observance of Laudato Si May 31 from 1:45 to 5:30 p.m. The event includes lunch, showing of the movie “The Letter,” an Energy Savings Fair, ass at 4:30 and a garden blessing at 5:30. Deadline for reservations is May 28. To reigster, visit tinyurl.com/MAY-31-LS-BIRTHDAY. For questions, email creationcare@stanselm.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 Grandparents Guild, Manasquan, invites new members to join monthly meetings held on the third Tuesday of the month at 11 a.m. in the parish center. The meetings include discussions on the best practices of grandparenting, sharing thoughts and experiences and praying for grandchildren. For more information, call 732-223-0287.
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 celebrate a Mass for first responders May 27 at 7 p.m. The parish 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. Denis Parish Hall, Manasquan, will host The Women’s Club of Spring Lake who will present Ceili June 7. Dance lessons will go from 4 to 5 p.m. with the Ceili running from 5 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Cost is $20 per person and proceeds will benefit local charities. For reservations, call 201-401-4562.
St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, will hold “Thy Kingdom Come” novena from May 29 to June 8. The days are the traditional novena of prayer that the Lord asked to be prayed from the day he ascended into heaven to the descent of the Holy Spirit on Pentecost. This ecumenical prayer moment invites Christians around the world to pray for more people to come to know Jesus.
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. James Parish, Red Bank, will celebrate a Mass for Memorial Day, May 26 at 10 a.m. in the North Chapel Hill section of Mount Olivet Cemetery in front of the mausoleum. Attendees should bring a lawn chair. In the event of inclement weather, the Mass will be held in St. James Church.
St. Joseph Parish Readers Club, Millstone Township, will meet June 12 at 7:30 p.m. The club is reading the book “The Personal Librarian” by Marie Bennett. The theme for the food will be foods of New York. For more information, email ambiofran@gmail.com.
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 Parish, Lincroft, will hold a carnival June 9-14 each evening from 6 to 10 p.m. Bracelet Nights will be held June 10 12 and14. Pre-sale discounted tickets and bracelets may be purchased online by scanning the QR code found in the parish bulletin or at stleothegreat.com/pre-sale. For more information, visit stleothegreat.com/carnival.
St. Leo the Great Parish Social Concerns Ministry, Lincroft, will hold “Undee Sunday” the weekend of June 7-8. Donations of new socks, underwear and t-shirts will be collected and given to needy members in the community. Adult and children’s sizes are needed. Items may be placed in the bins in the church.
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. 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 High School, Belmar, will hold a Car Wash Fundraiser June 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fee is $10 per person and proceeds will benefit the students who are traveling to Preston, W.V., to help restore homes of persons in need. Funds will be directed toward purchasing supplies. For questions, call 732-681-2858, ext. 721 or email DWallace@SRHSNJ.com.
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 Parish, Freehold, will host “Jaguar Jam” May 31 from 4 to 8 p.m. in the parish field. Food trucks and games including kickball, tug of war, corn hall, will be featured. To sign up, use the QR code in the parish bulletin or visit my.cheddarup.com/c/jaguar-jam. The Annual Carnival will take place June 24-28. Hours are 6 to 10 p.m. Tuesday-Thursday and 6 to 11 p.m. Friday and Saturday. The carnival will feature “Father Jim’s Food Hut,” live entertainment and rides. For more information, email BMedina@stroseoflimachurch.org.
St. Rose of Lima School, Freehold, has partnered with New Legacy Books, and is collecting used books. Donation bin is located in the car rider parking lot and items may be dropped off at any time. 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. Veronica Parish, Howell, will hold a Family Dance Party June 14 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the parish hall. Food, music and refreshments will be featured. Tickets are $10 per person or $25 for a family of three or more. To register, scan the QR code in the parish bulletin or visit https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/c67242d7-e4fe-4810-8839-49e4148a8e93.
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
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.
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.
Maris Stella Retreat House, Harvey Cedars, will offer a Silent Preached Retreat June 15-21. Presenter is Franciscan Sister Anne Amati who will address the topic, “A Journey Through the Gospels: Discovering the Heart of God in the Questions Jesus Asks.” A Preached Retreat will be offered June 22-28. Presenter will be Capuchin Father Jack Rathschmidt who will focus on the topic, “Praying and Living the Holy Year of Hope.” A Silent Directed/Private Retreat will be held July 14-20. Spiritual director is Sister of Charity Ellen Burke. A directed retreat is for those who desire quiet prayer and to meet daily with a spiritual director. A private retreat is for those who wish to pursue their retreat with no formal program. For registration information, visit marisstella.org.
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.
Rev. Gebhard Braungart Council, Ladies Auxiliary, will hold a Summer Movie Night June 11 at 5:30 p.m. in St. Pio of PIetrelcina Parish Hall. “Mamma Mia” will be the featured movie. Cost is $12 per person and includes sandwiches, soda, water, coffee and dessert. To register, call 201-988-5516 no later than June 9.
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: cereal, pancake mix, pancake syrup, coffee, condiments, toilet tissue, toiletries. Persons in need of food should call 732-269-2208, ext. 107.
St. Barnabas Food Pantry, Bayville, will present “Pop The Trunk Drive-Thru Free Food Distribution” every Tuesday from 5 to 7 p.m. starting June 17. Distribution is on a first come, first serve basis.
St. Eizabeth Ann Seton Parish, Whiting, will host “A Night With Elvis” May 31 at 6:30 p.m. in the parish center. Evan Mills will portray Elvis. Doors open at 5:30 p.m. Cost is $20 per person and includes hot dog or hamburger. Additional foods will be available for purchase. No outside food is permitted. Tickets are available at the parish office. For reserved tables of 10, call 732-267-0910.
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. A Festival of the Sea will be held July 1-5 from 6 to 10 p.m. Volunteers are needed. Tickets are on sale for $35 until June 30. For more information, visit stfrancisparishlbi.org/festivalofthesea. A concert featuring Father Alphonse Stephenson and the Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea will be held Aug. 3 at 3 p.m. in St. Francis of Assisi Church.
St. Isidore the Farmer Parish, New Egypt, will hold a golf outing fundraiser June 2 at the Rancocas Golf Club, Willingboro. Registration and breakfast begin at 8 a.m. with a shotgun start at 9:30. Fee is $150 for individual golfers and includes green fee, cart, golf cart, tees, breakfast and lunch. Fee for non-golfer lunch is $40 per person. For questions or information on sponsorship opportunities, call 609-758-2153.
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 Council, Knights of Columbus, Lakehurst, will host a night at the Blue Claws June 20 starting at 6 p.m. Tickets are $40 for adults and $30 for children and includes game and two-hour buffet. For tickets, call 732-657-1110.
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 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. 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. Justin the Martyr Parish, Toms River, will host a Social Sunday after all Masses June 1. Bagels, donuts, coffee and fellowship will be featured.
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 Parish Bagels & Bibles for Men, Barnegat meets on the first Saturday of the month following the 8 a.m. Mass in Monsignor Reinbold Hall. The group provides an opportunity for fellowship with those who wish to grow in their Catholic faith.
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. Mary Parish, Barnegat, holds “Ken’s Kitchen,” which is a free social lunch program that welcomes people of all faiths from the surrounding communities. Lunches are served on Thursdays from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the parish center. Coffee is served, followed by informative speakers and entertainment. Soup and lunch will be served from 10:30 to 11:30. Meals are available for take-out after 11:30 a.m. Free bread and baked goods are distributed as well. Parish nurses are available twice per month for blood pressure screenings and more. Persons in need of a hot meal can call 609-618-9381.
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. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will hold a Healing Mass June 12 at 7 p.m. in the church, 1100 Grand Central Ave., Lavallette. Prayer teams and music from the New Jersey Campus graduates and students of Encounter School of Ministry, will be in attendance. For more information, email dawnrusinko@yahoo.com.
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.