By Christina Leslie | Staff Writer

When it comes to the priests of the Diocese of Trenton, members of the Knights of Columbus are clear in their appreciation and respect. And it turns out that the feelings are mutual.

To see photo gallery on this story, click here.

Those were the sentiments effusively expressed at the Knights’ annual Pride in our Priests Dinner, held April 14 in Doolan’s Shore Club, Spring Lake Heights. Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and about 130 of his priests were honored by more than 300 Knights and their guests at the annual event sponsored by the N.J. Knights of Columbus Trenton Federation. It was a rare opportunity for all gathered to relax, socialize and reflect upon the unique spiritual gifts and works of mercy each share with the people of the Diocese of Trenton.

Bishop O’Connell was among the many clergy members who extolled the support of the Knights, not only for hosting the gathering, but for all they do for the Church and in the parishes. Accepting a $10,000 donation to the Holy Innocents Society, proceeds from the Knights’ annual Tootsie Roll Drive for needy children, the Bishop stated, “The Knights… I don’t know what the Catholic Church would do without you. This gift will mean a great deal to the people who take care of these young angels.”

Bishop O’Connell acknowledged the Knights’ support not only for children, but in the lives of future priests, and continued, “We know we can always count on you, especially in our support of our 30 seminarians of the Diocese. Your support means so much to us, to them, and the future of our Diocese.”

Reflecting on the special nature of the gathering, Father John Ruffo, pastor of St. Catharine of Siena Parish, Seaside Park, noted, “We receive a lot of support from the Knights.”

Grand Knight John Coghlan, a parishioner of St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, reflected upon the value of the Knights’ annual tribute, asking rhetorically, “Why shouldn’t we show appreciation and devotion to our priests? We do it because of everything they do for us.”

Marist Father James F. McGoldrick, who is in residence in St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton, saw the evening as enjoyable and valuable to his ministry. “I like to socialize with the other priests and the Knights,” he said. “This is good fellowship, and  I can find out what’s going on in other parishes.”

Grand Knight Joseph Del Guercio, a parishioner in St. William the Abbot Parish, Howell, attended to express his appreciation for the clergy’s selfless dedication to their people, and for “being a part of a wonderful vocation. It’s important to take the opportunity to say thanks for their service to the Church and to God.”

Father John J. Testa, parochial vicar in St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, Toms River, noted, “The Knights of Columbus do so much for the priests, and do so much in the parish.”

Father Fernando Lopez, parochial vicar in St. Aloysius Parish, Jackson, beamed ear to ear as he took in the sight of the Knights and his brother priests at the annual dinner. “When the Knights and the priests work together for the Church,” he said, “it makes a very important connection.”