The cover of this year’s LIVES OF FAITH issue depicts Our Lady of the Assumption, patroness of the Diocese of Trenton. She provides an apt example of perfect discipleship to whom all religious and clergy can look for inspiration and intercession.
On behalf of Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and the faithful community of the Diocese of Trenton, The Monitor is pleased to present the annual keepsake edition, LIVES OF FAITH, honoring the clergy and religious marking ministry milestones this year.
In his message for this special tribute, Bishop O’Connell writes under the theme: “Where years become witness.” He commends all those recognized in this issue for their fidelity and perseverance as they continue to minister in a myriad of ways in service to God and his people.
For those priests marking retirement this year, we are deeply grateful for your decades of dedicated service to God and his people. We pray that the Lord who called you to the priesthood more than a generation ago will continue to bless you with good health, peace and joy in this new chapter of life.
For the priests, deacons and religious who are observing significant anniversaries of ordained or consecrated ministry, we hope that the tributes in this special edition demonstrate in some small way how dear you are to the people you serve in our parishes, schools and other ministry centers. You have stood with us in joy and sorrow, through sacramental celebrations and grief, loss and family troubles. Your ministry has been a living testimony to the compassion of Christ and a reminder that we are never alone. You have offered us a bridge – helping countless souls bring their questions, hopes, and wounds to the Lord.
While you rarely seek recognition or praise, this is our chance to bestow it as we offer our most heartfelt prayers that God will continue to keep you well and ministering among us.
Thank you.
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