Far from a summer slow down, Catholic life in the parishes of the Diocese remains busy throughout June, July and August. But it is a different kind of busy that finds parish and diocesan leaders, staff, volunteers and the faithful engaged in all sorts of productive activities that the rest of the year does not allow time for.
This issue’s IN FOCUS highlights some of the many aspects of the Summer Experience – beginning with an essay from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., on the need to “Soak up the Son of God.” Also, look for reports on welcoming summer visitors to our shore parishes; taking time apart to be with the Lord; a summer intensive catechetical program and a special collection of summer camp supplies.
Bishop O’Connell takes on two other key topics in his essays this month:
- The people of Texas need our help – Recalling the generosity that was shown by the Church around the U.S. following Superstorm Sandy in 2012 and why we are called to help the many people impacted by flash flooding in central Texas.
- Political action and the Catholic Church – A response to the ruling by the Internal Revenue Service regarding political endorsements and oppositions from the Church
In Seasons and Celebrations we bring you special coverage on the upcoming World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly that emphasizes why our elderly loved ones are so important to the Church and how we can accompany them in this phase of their lives. Look for a piece on how one parish celebrated the 100th birthday of one of their own.
A look back at what has been an extremely busy month includes reports on:
- WORLD & NATION — The bombing of Iran by Israel and the United States and pleas for a ceasefire in Gaza as human conditions deteriorate; passage of the Trump Administration’s mega-bill and how its funding cuts will impact the poor and marginalized, and the tragic flash flooding that claimed the lives of more than 120 Texans with some still missing.
- LOCAL — Completion of the Parish Catechetical Leadership Program; 140th anniversary of St. Anthony of Padua in Hightstown; Dual anniversary for St. Clement Parish, Matawan; Corpus Christi celebrations; Order of Malta’s annual gathering; Sister Marcia Hall, daughter of Diocese, takes reins of Oblate Sisters of Providence, and much more.
Be sure to look for commentary on:
- Vaccine ethics from a deacon-doctor in an interview conducted by OSV-News
- The value of Natural Family Planning from Nick Petrillo, diocesan associate director of Marriage Ministries and NFP
- Helping children cope with loss in our latest installment of Faith at Home
Your latest Monitor issue has lots to take in so be sure you bring it along on your summer outings and vacation. And remember … coming later this month — LIVES OF FAITH — Our annual KEEPSAKE EDITION celebrating the priests, deacons and religious sisters and brothers who are marking a notable anniversary this year.
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Happy summer and God bless!
Rayanne Bennett
Associate Publisher
And The Monitor team