A Bishop’s View

The 15 years since Father David M. O’Connell, C.M., was ordained a bishop have been some of the most challenging in modern times – an historic, devastating storm; a deadly pandemic; political polarization; violence and dehumanization of innocent human life in the United States and around the globe; declining Mass attendance and a muting of Gospel values in many areas of life.

It has also been a time when the Catholic faithful stepped up in response to those in need; demonstrated a true desire to deepen their spiritual lives and spread the Gospel of Jesus Christ, and supported the work of the Church on behalf of their brothers and sisters.

Through all of the challenges, including several personal health crises, Bishop O’Connell has been a steady and loving presence among his flock, building connection with clergy and laity alike. His emphasis on catechesis and youth ministry; his support of Catholic schools and his unwavering efforts to foster vocations have defined in great part the last 15 years and will likely be the hallmarks of his episcopacy overall.

In his typically generous spirit, he shares with Monitor readers some of his views on serving as the Bishop of Trenton. Our Q and A interview with Bishop O’Connell follows.

Rayanne Bennett

Associate Publisher

General Impressions

How would you describe what you have experienced during your years shepherding the Church of Trenton?

A very loving, generous and caring flock. A wonderful presbyterate. Good staff.

The pervasive goodness I found throughout the Diocese has encouraged my response as Bishop.

Charism to serve others

As a priest of the Congregation founded by St. Vincent de Paul, how would you say that your episcopacy has been influenced by your Vincentian roots?

St. Vincent’s concern and love for the poor has influenced my support for charitable works in the Diocese of Trenton. His concern and love for the clergy has influenced my own dealing with the clergy here in the Diocese.

I chose my episcopal motto

based upon St. Mark, 10:45, the Gospel reading from my ordination as a priest, Ministrare non ministrari, to serve and not to be served.

Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., joins teens from St. Paul Parish, Princeton, during the Diocesan Youth Conference Feb. 1 at Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville. Matt Marzorati photo

Greatest Challenges

What are the major issues that have brought you the most concern and difficulty?

Sexual Abuse Crisis

• Closing of schools – Had to close seven Catholic elementary schools and two Catholic high schools due to financial constraints, declining enrollments and changing demographics
• Keeping young people in the Church – They need to stay close to their faith.
• Empty pews – We have seen significant recovery post-COVID, but bringing more people back to Mass is a continuing concern.
• Occasional uncooperative clergy

Overcoming Polarization

How can the Church help to counter the polarization that has taken hold in our culture and even in our parish communities?

We have to set hearts on Christ and the Gospel. We have to keep praying. And we must not bring politics into the pulpit.

Growing in Faith

What is your best advice for those who want to have a deeper, more vibrant spiritual life?

Our Catholic faith is really about a relationship with the person of Jesus Christ and connecting with him, reaching out to him.

Bishop O’Connell processes into St. Joseph Church, Toms River, to celebrate Mass on Dec. 1, 2024, the First Sunday of Advent. Mike Ehrmann photo
Michael Ehrmann

Health Concerns

You have had a few very serious health crises over the last 15 years. How have you dealt with them and how are you feeling now?

I was diagnosed with diabetes in 2005; became insulin dependent. I developed osteomyelitis (bone infection) and sepsis in 2014 resulting in the amputation of my left leg below the knee. I wear a prosthetic leg. This has had a dramatic effect on my ability to walk normally, requiring assistance walking up and down steps, etc.

I developed gastroparesis, negatively impacting normal stomach functioning

A few years ago I developed a series of blood clots and eventually had a significant heart attack in 2024.

Despite all these health issues, I have maintained a very busy schedule, fulfilling all my responsibilities as Bishop. I am pretty stubborn in the face of obstacles. People are amazed at how well I manage my disabilities.

I am grateful for the help and consideration I receive from so many, especially the priests who have lived with me. I have inherited my mother’s good disposition and sense of humor. I don’t let anything discourage or get me down. My father taught all his children to be generous to others.