By David Karas | Correspondent

Families seeking to experience the power of faith, and the tools the family has to tackle the challenges of today’s world, are invited to participate in the Family Mission in the Year of Mercy, hosted by St. Joseph Parish, Toms River, at 685 Hooper Avenue.

The mission will include separate programs in English and Spanish held from June 12 to 19.

Mission programming in English:

Tuesday, June 14 – 7-8 p.m. – “Holy Hour for Families” – a bilingual program; children are invited, and light refreshments will be served at 8 p.m.

Thursday, June 16 – 7-9 p.m. – “The Experiences and Challenges of Family” – speaker will be Mary Neary, director of parish ministries and family faith matters, retreat leader and faith formation at Sacred Heart Parish, Riverton

Saturday, June 18 – 5 p.m. – “Love in Marriage” and “Looking to Jesus: The Vocation of the Family” – 5 p.m. Mass will be followed by presentation and social gathering, with speaker Msgr. Rich LaVerghetta, pastor of St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton

Mission programming in Spanish:

Sunday, June 12 – 6:30 p.m. – Mass

Monday, June 13 – 7-9 p.m. – “Reality and Challenges of the Family”

Tuesday, June 14 – 7-8 p.m. – “Holy Hour for Families” – a bilingual program; children are invited, and light refreshments will be served at 8 p.m.

Wednesday, June 15 – 7-9 p.m. – “Called to Live Your Vocation with Jesus in Your Sights”

Saturday, June 18 – 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. – “Strengthening Your Children’s Education and Love in Marriage” – Family retreat in Donovan Catholic High School; children’s workshops ages 5-11 and 12-17; Donation of $8 per person, and $5 for kids ages 5-1
Sunday, June 19 – 6:30 p.m. – Mass

Spanish mission programming will also feature Bishop Emeritus Roberto Lopez Londono of the Diocese of Jerico, Colombia, as well as Father Carlos Andres Vasquez of the Diocese of Armenia, Colombia. Those interested in attending the retreat can sign up after Mass or by calling 732-349-0018 ext. 2213.