Summer may be winding down, but there is no shortage of inspiring stories, important news and opportunities to live our Catholic faith in the August issue of The Monitor Magazine.
On our cover, young Catholics from across the Diocese show what it means to be “Mission Driven.” Some 125 teens took time away from their typical summer activities to participate in MISSION: Jersey, serving people in need at sites in Brick, Freehold and Trenton. From tending community gardens and stocking food pantries to preparing lunches and helping create colorful hospital gowns for young patients, these teens put the Gospel into action in meaningful ways.
As the Church celebrates the Solemnity of the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., reflects on what Mary’s Assumption means for the Church and reminds the faithful of the destiny that awaits us in Christ.
Bishop O’Connell also posted a message for this issue, joining the U.S. Bishops in a renewed call to prayer and action to stop the spread of abortion drugs.
Readers will also find two compelling stories about our diocesan priests. Father J.C. Garrett is recovering following his July 22 kidney transplant, made possible through the generosity of a local parishioner who entered a paired kidney exchange program after hearing Father Garrett share his story at Mass. We also introduce readers to Father David Swantek, whose mission to bring Jesus to others has taken him from his parish in Point Pleasant to Alaska — and, through his online Masses, into homes around the world.
Readers can also get to know two members of The Monitor team in new roles: Kasia Anderson, who recently joined the staff as managing editor, and Joanne Krzywulak, who has expanded her responsibilities to include advertising coordinator while continuing her work with subscriptions and circulation.
Looking ahead to September, the issue shares details about two significant diocesan observances. Bishop O’Connell will celebrate the Mass for the Care of Creation Sept. 1 in Manasquan, opening the annual Season of Creation, and on Sept. 11 the Diocese will gather in Middletown for a Mass of Remembrance marking the 25th anniversary of the terrorist attacks of Sept. 11, 2001.
Other articles to check out:
- PARISHES –Diocese’s faithful discover the witness of six Mexican martyrs as their relics travel to eight churches; St. Dominic Parish opens the St. Carlo Care Center to serve neighbors in need; and St. David the King Parish turns family heartbreak into hope with a St. Monica prayer initiative for loved ones who have stepped away from the faith.
- SCHOOLS –Catholic education leaders urge support for the Education Freedom Tax Credit and its potential benefits for New Jersey families
- ISSUES AND ADVOCACY –A Princeton seminar explores AI and evangelization, emphasizing that technology can assist the mission but cannot replace personal Christian witness
- YOUTH – 29 teens receive the Diocese’s 2026 St. Timothy Awards for their service, leadership and witness to the Catholic faith, while Vacation Bible Schools across the Diocese bring faith and summer fun together for children.
The August print edition has been sent to the mailboxes and inboxes of our subscribers. Not yet a subscriber? Sign up today safely and conveniently by clicking HERE or writing to Monitor-Subscriptions@DioceseofTrenton.org. Or call our Business Desk at (609) 403-7169 for assistance.
God bless!
Rayanne Bennett
Associate Publisher
And The Monitor team