The following parishes, schools and organizations in the Diocese of Trenton have announced these upcoming events:
Burlington County
1st Way of Burlington County is in need of volunteers. The agency provides mothers with material needs, pregnancy testing and other services. For more information, call 609-284-7943.
Holy Eucharist Parish Bereavement Support Ministry, Tabernacle, will hold its monthly meeting July 7 at 1:30 p.m. The meeting is open to anyone who has lost a loved one either recently or in past years. Meetings are on the first Monday of the month in the Pope John XXIII Room in the Faith Formation Center. For more information, call 609-268-8383, ext. 100 or 609354-2180.
Holy Eucharist Parish iThirst Addictions Support Ministry, Tabernacle, invites anyone who has family or friends in recovery or active addiction to participate in the ministry. The next meeting is June 12 from 7 to 8 p.m. in Hoffman Hall. The evening will include sharing stories and information.
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.
Mary, Mother of the Church Parish Food Pantry, Bordentown is in need of the following items. In the St. Mary Parish worship site the items are: bar soap, pasta sauce, Ramen beef and chicken soup and baked beans. The pantry is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2 to 8 p.m., Tuesdays from 6 to 7 p.m. and Thursdays from 9 to 10 a.m. and from 6 to 7 p.m. Food donations may be dropped off during pantry hours. In the Holy Assumption, Roebling, worship site, items needed are pasta sauce, pasta, canned potatoes, string beans, corn canned soup, canned fruit, canned chicken breast, boxed milk, cooking oil, mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, cereal, paper towels, toilet tissue, laundry and dish detergent, water and snacks. The pantry is open Tuesdays from 2 to 3 p.m. Food donations may be dropped off on Monday mornings from 10 to 11 a.m.
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 Catholic Daughters, Riverton, is working on collaboration with a student from Holy Cross Preparatory Academy, Delran to collect school supplies and backpacks to benefit Catholic Charities and Operation Backpack. New backpacks and school supplies should be placed in the bin located in the side altar near the ramp of Sacred Heart Church. Items requested include backpacks, binders, lined filler paper, composition books, two pocket folders, #2 pencils, pens, highlighters, glue sticks, crayons, pencil sharpeners, markers (broad tip and point), soft pencil cases, pink bar erasers. Donations will be accepted through Aug. 15. For questions, call 609-330-0231.
Sacred Heart Parish, Riverton, will observe the Feast of the Sacred Heart June 27 with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament from 7 to 8 a.m., at which time Mass will be celebrated. A reception will follow at 8:45 a.m. The feast will also be marked with a Eucharistic Procession with the Blessed Sacrament June 29 following the 11:30 a.m. Mass
St. Charles Borromeo Parish, Cinnaminson, has an Adoration Chapel that is open from 8 a.m. to 10 p.m., Monday-Friday, and 8 a.m. to 4 p.m. on Saturday. To schedule an hour in the chapel, call 856-829-3322, ext. 120.
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, t-shirts, 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 its annual carnival Aug. 18-23. All proceeds will benefit the parish school.
St. John Neumann Mother’s Ministry, Mount Laurel, meets every first and third Thursday of the month at 10 a.m. in Room 2 in the parish hall. The gatherings offer times of reflection, joy and community. The group is open to mothers with children five years of age or younger. For more information, call 856-571-2945 or hadeelaioube@gmail.com or 201-878-7083 or katjennings13@aol.com.
St. John Neumann Parish, Mount Laurel, will observe the Feast of the Sacred Heart June 27, Exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will be held from 3:30 to 6 p.m.; Confessions will be heard from 5:30-6:30 p.m.; Mass, along with devotions, will be celebrated at 7 p.m.
St. John Neumann Parish, Mount Laurel, will hold a Militia of the Immaculata Gathering June 25 at 6:45 p.m. Participants will reflect on St. Maximilian Kolbe’s writings, devotions to and evangelization through the Miraculous Medal and the mission of the MI. The reflections will be drawn from the writings of St. Maximilian: Inspirations for the Month of the Most Sacred Heart and the Immaculate Heart. After the reflections, Mass will be celebrated and Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament will be held.
St. John Neumann Parish’s Mother’s Ministry, Mount Laurel, gathers every first and third Thursday of the month in Room 2 of the parish hall at 10 a.m. Participants share reflection and community. For more information or to join, call 856-571-2945 or hadeelaioub@gmail.com or 201-878-7083 or email katjennings13@aol.com.
St. John Neumann Parish, Mount Laurel, holds Morning Prayer (Lauds) every Monday, Thursday and Friday at 8:15 a.m. Mass will be celebrated at 9. No prior knowledge of the Liturgy of the Hours is necessary. The Liturgy of the Hour is available online by downloading iBreaviary app. The first gathering will be June 27.
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. Paul School, Burlington, will serve as the site of a three-week Coach Jonathan Finkel Basketball Camp for youth ages 9-14. The weeks will be held July 14-17; July 21-24, and July 28-31. Full day runs from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. and cost is 4175. Half day runs from 9 a.m. to noon or from noon to 3 p.m. and costs $125. To register, email: coachjonathanfinkel1@gmail.com. Payment must be made ahead of time in order to participate in the camp. Make checks payable to Coach Jonathan Finkel and mail to St. Paul School, 250 James St., Burlington, NJ 08016.
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.
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. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction, will its “Last Chance Mass” during the summer months. Mass is celebrated on Sunday evenings at 7 p.m.
St. David the King Parish Community Club Ministry, Princeton Junction, will hold Beginner Line Dancing June 28 from 7 to 9 p.m. in the Great Hall. Professional dance teacher Jeremy Duncan will lead the evening. No experience or a partner necessary. For reservations, use the QR code found in the parish bulletin and indicate if bringing a dessert.
St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, will observe the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus with a Holy Hour June 27 at 7 p.m. The Holy Hour will commemorate the 350th anniversary of the last apparition of the Sacred Heart to St. Margaret Mary Alacoque. During the holy hour, an icon depicting an image of the Sacred Heart of Jesus, painted in 1767 by Pompeo Batoni and now venerated in the Church of the Gesù in Rome, will be displayed. The reproduction of the original image bears the blessing of Pope Francis and is one of more than 300 icons traveling across the world as part of the Knights of Columbus Pilgrim Icon Program.
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 Parish Health Ministry, Hamilton, will hold a blood drive July 24 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the gym.
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.
St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish Food Pantry, Hamilton, is in need of the following items: soups, tuna fish, spaghetti sauce, macaroni and cheese, cereal, instant potatoes, peanut butter, jelly and rice. To drop off food or perishable items, call 609-585-7049 to make arrangements. Monetary donations are accepted. The next “Reach Out Saturday” is May 31 from 9 to 11 a.m.
The Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley, will hold its annual “Tri-Parish Cereal & Shelf-Stable Milke Drive” June 21-29. Items will be collected at the three churches – St. James, Pennington; St. Alphonsus, Hopewell, and St. George, Titusville. Donations will benefit Mount Carmel Guild, Trenton. For information, call 908-310-8797 or email skibbees@aol.com.
Monmouth County
Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will host a n In-Person Only Personal Retreat Day will be offered June 30 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The day will offer time for silence, personal prayer and optional spiritual direction. The day begins and ends with brief prayer together. Participants should bring lunch and if using the pool, bring a bathing suit and towel. Fee is $10 or $40 with spiritual direction. An in-person only Young Adult Prayer & Pool Retreat for young adults ages 19-30 will be held June 30 from 7 to 9 p.m. Pool will be open from 6:30 to 7:15 p.m. Snacks will be provided. Donation is $15. 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 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.
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.
Oratory Church of St. Anthony of Padua, Red Bank, and the parish’s Society of St. Cecelia will host a “Liberty Extravaganza” afternoon of patriotic songs June 29 at 3:30 p.m. in the parish center. A freewill offering will be 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.
Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Keyport, will observe the Feast of the Sacred Heart of Jesus with a Mass June 27 at noon in St. Joseph Church. The Mass will be followed by Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, litanies of the Sacred Heart and Benediction.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help-St. Agnes Parish, Atlantic Highlands, invites all knitters and crocheters to volunteer their time to make hats, blankets and scarves for donation. Yarn is supplied. Participants can knit/crochet from home or join the group which meets on Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information, call 732-921-4450.
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. Benedict Council, Knights of Columbus, Holmdel, sponsors an Eyes for the Needy program. Donations of prescription reading and sunglasses are being accepted and will be given to the Red Bank Lions Club for distribution to those in need. Unwanted eyeglasses and jewelry which is sold to raise money to purchase new glasses) can be placed in the basket in the gathering space.
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. Clement Senior Citizens Club, Matawan, meets every Tuesday morning at 10:30 a.m. in the Reception Center. Members do not need to be a parishioner in order to join. For more information, call 732-566-0962.
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: canned soup, beans, tuna, fruit, vegetables, boxed milk, peanut butter, jelly, pasta, pasta sauce and cereal. 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, in collaboration with Holy Trinity Lutheran Church, Manasquan, will host an eight-week session on The Chosen starting June 25 and concluding Aug. 13. Viewings will be held on Wednesdays at 11 a.m. in Holy Trinity Church and 7 p.m. in St. Denis Parish Center. The theme will focus on Palm Sunday through Holy Week.
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 observe the Feast of St. James with a Mass July 25 at 5:30 p.m. A pasta dinner will follow in the BSA. For reservations, call 732-741-0500.
St. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown, will hold a “Parish Game Night and Wings Cook-Off” June 28 from 6:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the church hall. Free admission. Hot dogs and beverages provided and board and card games will be featured. Those participating in the Wings Cook-Off should bring their supply of wings.
St. Joseph Council, Knights of Columbus, Keyport, holds line dancing every Thursday from 7:30 to 10:30 p.m. in the council hall. Cost is $10.
St. Joseph Parish, Adult Faith Enrichment, Millstone Township, will hold a summer series scheduled for June 27, July 11 and Aug. 1 in the parish hall from 10 a.m. to noon. The series will include the showing of documentary films on Leonardo Da Vinci which explores the imagination of the 15th century Italian master, as well as “Inside the Vatican,” that will highlight individuals who provide insight on the history and unique traditions of the Vatican. Registration sheets are available in the back of the church or by emailing vickistjoseph@gmail.com.
St. Joseph Men’s Guild, Millstone Township, will hold a Golf Outing Sept. 11 at the Forsgte Country Club, Monroe. Brochures that include registration and sponsor information are available at the entrance of the church and also online by visiting https://www.stjosephmillstone.org/golf-outing. For more information, email dcerulosr@gmail.com. Proceeds will benefit parish expenses and provide assistance to those in need.
St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, holds Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Monday through Friday in the chapel from 8 to 8:50 a.m. with Mass being celebrated at 9 a.m.
St. Mark Parish, Sea Girt, will hold a Parish Festival July 13 from 1 to 7 p.m. Food, entertainment, games, prizes, music will be featured. Proceeds will support the parish’s outreach ministries. For tickets and more information, call 732-449-6364.
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. Michael Parish, West End, will hold an Independence Day Prayer Service July 4 at 9 a.m. in the courtyard in front of the church. Included will be a reading of the Declaration of Independence by a Revolutionary War reenactor, a prayer for the United States and for the colonists who died during the Revolution, the singing of The National Anthem and God less America. Daily Mass will be celebrated at 8 a.m. Light refreshments will follow the prayer service.
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 Parish, Belmar, will offer an “Intro & Overview of the Bible, For Adults & Teens, Beginners & Refreshers” on the following Tuesdays from 6:30-8:30 p.m.: June 24, July 1, July 8, and July 15 or on the following Wednesday mornings from 9:45-11:45 a.m.: June 25, July 2, July 9 and July 16. The program’s theme “Unlocking The Mystery of the Bible” will be a video series featuring Jeff Cavins and Sarah Christmyer. Cost to participate varies. To purchase study book the cost is $25; participants may also pay $5.95 for online videos and have access to the online version of the study book for one year. There is no cost if participants use their own Bibles and view the videos. Facilitators include: seminarian Bien Quiambao assisted by St. Rose Bible Study facilitators Sister Donna D’Alia, Ginny Blasi, Helenbeth Matyas and others. To register, email srdonna@strosebelmar.com or call 732-681-0512, ext. 419.
St. Rose of Lima Parish, Freehold, will host its Annual Carnival 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, is holding a diaper drive June 28-29. All sizes are needed, but most especially Size 4/6. Donations will benefit the Diaper Bank at Child Care Resources of Monmouth County.
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.
Vincent’s Legacy, the furniture outreach of the St. Vincent de Paul conference works with local St. Vincent de Paul conferences to serve neighbors in need of furniture and household items. Donations of furniture and household items that are in good condition to redistribute are accepted. The outreach offers many opportunities for people to serve, whether it’s with donating furniture, volunteering or offering financial support to help cover warehouse and truck expenses. Visit https://vincentslegacy.wixsite.com/furniture or on Facebook at https://www.facebookcom/FurnitureMinistry.com. For more information, email Furniture@svdptrenton.org or call 609-557-7837. To make a financial contribution, send check payable to Vincent’s Legacy Furniture Outreach Conference, P.O. Box 526, Manasquan, N.J. 08736 or use the DONATE button o the Facebook page.
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, cereal/sweet cereal, canned –pasta, assorted dried beans, canned beans/baked beans, brown rice, jars of pasta sauce, pasta (spaghetti)/whole wheat pasta (spaghetti), coffee, frozen vegetables, fresh fruit and vegetables, snacks.
Epiphany Parish Wellness for Maturing Adults, Brick, meets every first Wednesday of the month. Along with offering information on health practices, the sessions also address psychological power and spiritual strength to achieve optimal health.
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 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.
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Lakewood, will hold its Parish Carnival July 2-5 on the grounds of Holy Family Church. For sponsorship opportunities, call 732-363-0139.
Our Lady of the Pines Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a Holy Hour at 3 p.m. in St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish chapel, Whiting. The Holy Hour will be led by Deacon Bob Scharen and will include a Sacred Heart pilgrim icon. Included will be Scripture readings, Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament, prayers to the Sacred Heart and recitation of the Divine Mercy Chaplet.
Rev. Gebhard Braungart Council, Knights of Columbus and Ladies Auxiliary, are partnering with the NJSSA, NJRPA and Dolfin Swimwear to be an official drop off location for the 2025 Bathing Suit & Goggle Drive. The collection will take place through Aug 1. The council will accept donations at the drop off box at 109 White Ave., Lavallette. For questions, call 410-591-8132.
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. Barnabas Parish, Bayville, holds Lectio Divina every second Sunday of the month. The next gathering will be July 13 from 9:10-9:55 a.m. in the meeting room of the Spiritual Center.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish Bereavement Support Group, Whiting, offers a caring, compassionate, confidential atmosphere for the sharing of experiences in having lost a loved one to death. Meetings are held on the second and fourth Tuesday of the month at 1 p.m. in St. Mark’s Room. Parishioners and non-parishioners are welcome to attend with no registration required.
St. Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish Yarn Wizards, Whiting, gathers each Tuesday from 9 to 11:20 a.m. to knit and crochet items for charity. The group gathers in the St. Mark’s Room. For more information, call 732-350-5001.
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 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. A class on Non-Fiction Writing will be held from July 8 to Aug. 12. Sessions will meet from noon 1 p.m. and will explore various genres and teaches the writing process; brainstorming and choosing a topic; building an argument, researching and polishing a final draft. Fran Pelham is the instructor. A “Funky Flea Market” will be held Aug. 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Prospective vendors can email vendors@stfrancislbi.org.
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, Lakehurst, offers a Sign Language class on Tuesdays from 10:30 a.m. to noon in the parish center. Signers attend the 4 p.m. Mass on Saturdays. For more information, call 732-773-4321.
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. John Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Lakehurst, is accepting donations of the following items: coffee/tea, Chef Boyardee products (SpaghettiOs, raviolis), white tuna or white chicken, jarred pasta sauce. Items can be placed in the blue bin in the church hall. Frozen or refrigerated items may be brought to the pantry on Monday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m.
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. Joseph Parish, Toms River, will hold a five-week Life In The Spirit Seminar on Wednesday evenings in July in the church. Topics will be: “God’s Love,” July 2; “Salvation,” July 9; “New Life & Receiving God’s Gift” July 16; “Baptism in the Holy Spirit,” July 23; “Growth & Transformation,” July 30. Included will be talks, personal testimonies, small group sharing, prayer and fellowship. Signups will be in the narthex the weekend of June 28-29 before and after all Masses. For information, call 732-473-9727.
St. Junipero Serra Parish Altar-Rosary Society, Seaside Park, will host a beefsteak dinner June 28 in Our Lady of Perpetual Hep Parish, Seaside Height, from 6 to 10 p.m. dinner will be served from 6:30-7 p.m. music will be provided by a DJ. Cost is $45 per person and tickets are sold at the entrances of the two churches or by calling 908-616-3213 or 732-429-9972.
St. Justin the Martyr Shawl Ministry, Toms River, seeks new members to assist with knitting or crocheting lap blankets. For more information, call 732-270-9258.
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 hold its annual Art Show & Sale Sept. 27 from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. in the parish center. Artists who wish to participate should call 609-660-8062. Fine art will only be featured. Entrance fee is $25 and a 10% commission will be taken on all sales. Proceeds will benefit Family Promise and the parish’s St. Vincent de Paul conference.
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. 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.
St. Theresa Parish, Little Egg Harbor, prays the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows and Divine Mercy Chaplet on Tuesdays at 3 p.m. in the church and Fridays at 3 p.m. in the Daily Chapel.
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.