In a Sept. 17 email to all pastors of the Diocese, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., advised that any parishes that wished to hold a collection in support of Catholic-based relief efforts for those impacted by Hurricane Florence should send all funds to Catholic Charities, U.S.A. 

Catholic Charities is also accepting donations from individuals through its website.  The agency says 100 percent of donations will be dedicated to the relief effort for Hurricane Florence.

Those wishing to donate can text CCUSADISASTER to 71777, call (800) 919-9338 or visit Catholic Charities USA. The latest information on the situation can be found at CCUSA.faith/disaster.

Catholic Athletes for Christ

Students from around the Diocese participated Sept. 18 in the 2018 Catholic Athletes for Christ Leadership Day at the diocesan Chancery and Notre Dame High School.

Upon their arrival, the students were welcomed by Father Gabriel Zeis, diocesan vicar for Catholic Education, and JoAnn Tier, superintendent of Catholic Schools. The morning session included group discussions led by CAC board members, principals and coaches.

After lunch, the students prayed a decade of the Rosary together and interacted with a panel that addressed questions and comments.

Students in attendance hailed from Red Bank Catholic High School, Red Bank; Notre Dame High School, Lawrenceville; Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft; St. Rose High School, Belmar; St. John Vianney High School, Holmdel; Trenton Catholic Academy, Trenton, and Donovan Catholic High School, Toms River.

For more coverage on the 2018 Catholic Athletes for Christ Leadership Day, check back to www.TrentonMonitor.com.