Photo caption: A segment from “Universal Call to Holiness” – a stained glass window in St. Ann Church, Lawrenceville – depicts those in ordained and consecrated life, all connected through Christ Jesus and his mission of love and redemption. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., says that it through the “faithful day-to-day service” of the men and women featured this year “that the presence of Christ shines most brightly.” Monitor file photo
By Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M.
As we celebrate the anniversaries of our priests, deacons, and consecrated women and men religious, we give thanks to God for the gift of their faithful witness and generous service. Their lives remind us that every vocation is a response to the Lord’s loving call and an invitation to share his light with the world.
The theme, “Lives of Faith,” reflects the enduring commitment these women and men have made to proclaim the Gospel, serve God’s people, and build up the Church. Through years of prayer, sacrifice, compassion and dedication, they have touched countless lives and strengthened the faith of our diocesan family.
As their Bishop, I have been privileged to witness the remarkable fidelity of so many priests, deacons and religious. I have seen them celebrate the Sacraments with devotion; accompany the sick and suffering with compassion; educate and form young people with patience, and remain close to the poor and those on the margins. Their ministry is often carried out quietly and without recognition, yet it is precisely in that faithful day-to-day service that the presence of Christ shines most brightly.
What stands out most to me, however, is their perseverance. Every vocation faces challenges, disappointments, sacrifices and moments of uncertainty. Yet year after year, these dedicated women and men continue their journey with Christ. They teach us that faith is not simply enthusiasm at the beginning of a calling, but the courage to remain steadfast through the years.
Perseverance is one of the greatest signs of faith because it reflects a deep trust that God is always present and working, even when the path is difficult. Their enduring commitment reminds us of the words of St. Paul: “I have fought the good fight, I have finished the race, I have kept the faith” (2 Tim 4:7).
The saints echo this same message:
St. Teresa of Calcutta reminded us, “God does not require that we be successful, only that we be faithful.”
St Thérèse of Lisieux proclaimed, “My vocation is love.”
St. Vincent de Paul, the founder of my own religious community, urged us, “Let us love God, but let it be with the strength of our arms and the sweat of our brow.”
St. Teresa of Ávila encouraged believers in every age: “Let nothing disturb you, let nothing frighten you; all things are passing away: God never changes.”
And St. Francis de Sales wisely counseled, “Have patience with all things, but chiefly have patience with yourself.”
These words come alive in those we honor today. Through decades of faithful service, they have shown that real holiness is found not only in extraordinary moments, but in the daily decision to follow Christ and serve his people with generous hearts.
On behalf of the Diocese of Trenton, I offer heartfelt gratitude and congratulations to all who are celebrating these significant milestones. May the Lord continue to bless them with joy, renewed zeal and abundant grace. As we honor their Lives of Faith, may their witness inspire all of us to persevere in our own vocations, trusting always in God’s providence and never losing sight of the hope found in Jesus Christ.
In this national anniversary year, may Mary Immaculate, model of faith and patroness of our country, lead our jubilarians and all who celebrate with them, ever closer to the Sacred Heart of her Son.