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From the Vatican to the Diocese, new texts bring clarity and connection
Dear Reader,
The smiling faces of Bishop David O’Connell and students from St. Mary Academy, Manahawkin, grace the new cover of The Monitor Magazine, reflecting a joyful moment at this year’s Catholic Schools Mass. MILESTONES IN EDUCATION might best describe the recent developments in Catholic education that we present in the November issue.
If ever there was a time to thoroughly read the full issue of the magazine and keep it on hand for future reference, this is that time.
Following what can only be described as an extraordinary flurry of landmark documents released by the Vatican in the period of only a few weeks, the Church is doing its best to inform the faithful and to help them fully understand the meaning of these new texts.
True to his unwavering commitment to be a teacher to his flock, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., has written a response to each of the new texts, giving us a recap of the most important elements and his analysis of their import.
Education-based content includes:
-Pope Leo’s Apostolic Letter: “Disegnare Nuove Mappe Di Speranza”(“Drawing New Maps of Hope”) – begins on page 10, with Bishop’s commentary on page 7.
-Retrospective from Bishop O’Connell on the 1965 conciliar text: “Gravissimum Educationis”(“Declaration on Christian Education”) – begins on page 13.
-LOCAL EDUCATION STORIES – Diocesan PTA Council’s 100th anniversary; Catholic Athletes for Christ annual meeting; Kindergarten teacher is finalist in statewide award
Coverage of other foundational texts from Rome, along with Bishop’s commentary:
-Pope Leo’s first Apostolic Exhortation: “Dilexi Te”(“I Have Loved You”) – The Church’s call to care for the poor – begins on page 16.
-Doctrinal Note from the Dicastery for the Doctrine of the Faith: “Mater Populi Fidelis”(“Mother of the Faithful People of God”) – begins on page 24.
This November issue also carries our annual tribute to the 200 married couples who participated in this year’s Bishop’s Anniversary Blessing Masses. We hope you will take a few moments to share in their joyful celebration as told in the story and photos we’ve featured, beginning on page 27.
Other items not to miss:
WORLD & NATION NEWS AND INSIGHT – Overview of U.S. Bishops’ meeting; Catholic social services respond to increased need; Hurricane Melissa’s devastating toll in Jamaica and how to help; Catholic Campaign for Human Development collection; A Catholic perspective on learning from history
VOCATIONS AND CLERGY – Father Varga remembered; Deacons’ annual convocation; Father Colavito visits schools during Vocations Awareness Week; Annual collection for Retired Religious
PARISHES & PEOPLE -- Manalapan family meets Pope Leo; Marian servants’ decade of service; Interfaith Caregivers honor parish, diocesan agency; Toms River parish to honor Our Lady of Kibeho; Hamilton mission calls faithful to reflection; Lakewood fire update
SEASONS & CELEBRATIONS – Month of the Rosary prayerful gatherings including regional Altar-Rosary Society Mass; Newly lit torches commence Diocese journey; missionary image of Mary visits parishes; World Mission Sunday observances
We hope that you will spend some time with the dozens of stories we have prepared for you about our parishes, schools and agencies – covering all four counties of the Diocese. They are stories about people of all ages, from all walks of life; engaged in the work of the Church through a wide network of services, ministries and initiatives. They are stories about one family of faith, walking together to serve Christ. And you are invited to link in by learning more and, where possible, supporting these efforts.
Please stay informed with daily updates of Church-based news at TrentonMonitor.com. BE ADVISED that the log-in form is currently disabled. Enjoy full access to all content without logging in during this interim period.
The November print edition has been mailed to all PREMIUM SUBSCRIBERS (includes both the print and digital editions). Not yet getting the print edition? Upgrade now by writing to [email protected].
Your digital edition is available HERE. Don’t hesitate to reach out to the email address above or call (609) 403-7169 if you need any assistance.
We are privileged and honored to walk with you into the sacred season that lies before us. On behalf of the wonderful team here at The Monitor, I wish you and yours a festive and fruitful Thanksgiving and a holy beginning of the Advent season.
Rayanne Bennett
Associate Publisher
And The Monitor team
Friday, December 05, 2025
