Amid the 24/7 reporting on the horrors unfolding in Ukraine, the Catholic Church has its own unique and compelling story to tell. The fervent desire to stand up for the downtrodden has infused the Church, from the Holy Father, across the world and into every faith community.

This month’s IN FOCUS section is dedicated to the call from the Catholic community, including here in the Diocese of Trenton, to pray for and stand with the people of Ukraine in their time of need. This content barely scratches the surface, and we encourage our readers to look for ongoing reporting on our website at TrentonMonitor.com.

With the season of Lent underway, The Monitor Magazine brings you ongoing support and inspiration with a message from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., and special content to make the most of this penitential season.  The Bishop writes: “Sacrifice and penance for their own sakes do not offer much meaning.  Sacrifice and penance for a ‘spiritual purpose’ mean a great deal.  Lent provides that spiritual purpose.” 

We encourage our readers to consider some of the many suggestions that the Bishop and others offer in this issue.

Also, look for this special coverage in your new issue:

• Reports on the diocesan phase of the worldwide Synod currently underway . . . have you participated yet?  We’ll show you how you can still have your voice count.
• Working Through Loss: How parish bereavement ministers help in the grieving process
• Diocesan updates on masks in schools; re-accreditation of Catholic schools; Deacon candidates advance in formation; Retreat for young adults
• Local reporting on Catholic Men for Jesus Christ Conference; Knights aid Kentucky tornado victims; Navy SEAL candidate mourned; Holy relics on display, and new book highlights legacy of Father Brian McCormick and Martin House

The March print edition has been mailed to all PREMIUM SUBSCRIBERS and the digital edition is now posted. Not yet a subscriber? The need to stay informed has never been greater. Sign up by clicking HERE, or writing to [email protected]. Remember that DIGITAL and PREMIUM subscribers have unlimited access to all content at TrentonMonitor.com.

May we all come to better know the peace of Christ this Lent.

Rayanne Bennett, Associate Publisher 
And The Monitor team