In Local News as of Aug. 9, 2024
August 9, 2024 at 6:53 a.m.
The following parishes, schools and organizations in the Diocese of Trenton have announced these upcoming events:
Burlington County
Burlington County Chapter of the Knights of Columbus is working with the Vineland Knights of Columbus in hosting a drive to benefit people in Ukraine Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, 1620 Marne Highway, Hainesport. Non-perishable items being collected include noodles, rice, instant soup, instant oatmeal, nuts, cereal and energy bars. Personal items include tissues, bar soap, toothpaste, band-aids, disposable diapers, first-aid kits, pain relief medication, women’s hygiene products, medical tourniquet, underwear, socks and antibacterial wipes. Other needed items include blankets, sleeping bags, bookbags candles, crayons, pencils and coloring books. Items may also be purchased through the Amazon registry at amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/CW5G2OUMC43U. The Vineland Council will ship items to Poland and then to outside of Ukraine.
Court St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Riverton, is collecting baby items for First Way of Burlington County. Needed items include diapers, wipes, baby clothes, formula and toiletries. There is an urgent need for diapers sizes 4, 5 and 6. Items may be dropped off in the basement of Sacred Heart Church, Riverton.
Holy Eucharist St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Tabernacle, has a food pantry that operates by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon. Persons in need of assistance and reside in Chatsworth, Vincentown, Shamong, Tabernacle or Southampton can call the hotline 609-268-0005 and leave a message with name and number and type of assistance needed. A Society member will return the call within 24 hours. All information remains confidential.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Council, Knights of Columbus, Maple Shade, will hold a spaghetti dinner Aug. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. in Nolan Hall. Tickets are $15 per person and may be purchased at the door. Fee for children ages 8 to 12 is $5 and no charge for children ages 7 and under.
Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly, will hold a clothing drive and uniform exchange Aug. 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. and Aug. 18 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pick-up day is Aug. 19. Acceptable items include clothing, shoes (bagged separately), soft household items – towels, bedding, stuffed animals, bikes, scooters and strollers. For information contact [email protected].
Sacred Heart Parish, Riverton, will hold will hold “Discovering Our Dignity,” a Walking With Purpose study of women of the Old and New Testaments, on Thursdays beginning Sept. 12 from 7 to 8:30 120p.m. in the Family Center. Participants will learn about the women and how the power of God worked in their lives. To register or for more information, email [email protected]. Visit Walking With Purpose at walkingwithpurpose.com.
St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton, will hold its annual carnival Aug. 19-24 on the parish grounds, Evans and Willow Bend Roads. Rides, food and games begin at 6 p.m. each evening. Free parking. All-access rides bracelets which can be used any night of the carnival can be purchased in advance for $30 at Shop Rite of Marlton, in the church vestibule after all weekend Masses or at the rectory Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and from 2 to 5 p.m. Cost at the carnival will be $40 per bracelet. All proceeds benefit St. Joan of Arc School. For more information, visit stjoans.org/carnival; email [email protected] or call 856-983-0077.
St. Joseph Council, Knights of Columbus, Riverton, will host its fourth annual Vehicle Show Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. registration starts at 8:30 a.m. and closes at 12:01 p.m. This is a judged show for all vehicles. First and runner-up awards in 12 classes. Registration fee is $20 on day-of-show only Proceeds will benefit 1st Way of Burlington County. Rain date is Sept. 8 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Call 609-634-8750.
St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Burlington, is hosting a back-to-school supply drive for Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton. Donations are being accepted through Aug. 10. Items may be brought to the parish office at 223 E. Union St. call 609-386-0152 or 609-386-0163. The parish food pantry provides food and personal hygiene products for residents of Burlington City and Burlington Township who meet income specifications and/or receive public assistance, unemployment benefits or disability benefits. In addition, registered parishioners experiencing food shortages are encouraged to contact the food pantry for assistance. The pantry is open every Wednesday from 9:30-11 a.m. except for Thanksgiving week when the pantry is open on Monday. Persons who wish to volunteer on an as-needed basis can call 609-386-3650.
St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will gather for recitation of the Rosary Aug. 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the church. A reception will follow at 7 in Emmaus Center.
Mercer County
Lawrence Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a Golf Classic Sept. 18 at Hopewell Golf Club. Registration and hot breakfast will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. with a shotgun start at 11:15. Hotdogs and drinks are available. An awards dinner will follow golf. Donations are $150 per golfer. Mail checks to K of C Council #7000, P.O. Box 6425, Lawrenceville, N.J. 08648. For information, call 609-902-9207 or 609-240-7991.
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, West Trenton, is hosting a Back-to-School drive for children in grades K-12during July and August. Donated items may include backpacks; two-pocket folders, subject and composition notebooks, three-ring binders, looseleaf paper, erasers, pens/pencils, pencil boxes, crayons, markers, glue sticks, rulers, protractors, scissors, sharpeners, calculators, dictionaries or gift certificates. Donations may be left in the parish hall. Items will be given to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton and Mount Carmel Guild at the end of August.
Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton, is hosting “Blessings in a Backpack 2024,” collecting school supplies for children in need. The weekend of Aug. 10-11, school supplies may be placed at the altar rail at all weekend Masses. Items needed include: backpacks, basic calculators, binders, colored pencils, composition books, crayons, glue sticks, highlighters, No. 2 pencils, pencil boxes and pens, rulers, scissors (blunt ended) two-pocket folders, washable markers, wide-rule loose leaf paper.
St. Ann Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Lawrenceville, will collect new undershirts, underpants and socks in the original packing for children ages 5-12. Donations will be accepted at all Masses Aug. 10-11 and given to Home Front of Lawrence. On weekdays before Aug. 10, drop-off boxes will be available at the Faith Development Center entrance and in the church lobby. A drop-off box will also be available in St. Michael Church.
St. Anthony High School’s Class of 1974 will hold a 50th year reunion Oct. 5 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Route 130, Hamilton. Cost is $80 per person and covers a buffet dinner and dancing. Full details may be found at SAHSHamiltonNJ.com to register or call 609-731-1609. Persons needing hotel accommodations should call 609-578-6789 and use code STAH50.
St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, is hosting a “Come on a Journey to Emmaus,” inviting parishioners to walk and discuss the upcoming Sunday Mass Readings. Sessions are held every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. until Aug. 29. To register, visit the parish website or contact adultfaith@stgregorythegreatchurch.
St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton, will hold its next blood drive Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the gymnasium, 3500 South Broad St. Visit RedCrossBlood.org.
St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish Food Pantry, Hamilton, needs donations of soup, pasta, spaghetti sauce, macaroni and cheese, rice, tuna, cereal, peanut butter and jelly. Monetary donations are welcome.
The Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley will host a Women’s Bible Study on the following Sundays from 7 to 9 p.m. in the basement of St. Alphonsus Church, Hopewell: July 14 and 28; Aug. 25; Sept. 8 and 22. The study will focus on the book “Who Does He Say our Are?: Women Transformed by Christ in the Gospels” by Colleen C. Mitchell. Books may be purchased through any major book seller or at shop.franciscanmedia.org.
Monmouth County
Christ the King Holy Name Society, Long Branch, will hold the Dick Gallo Memorial Golf Outing Aug. 26 at Pebble Creek Colf Course, Colts Neck. Sponsorship tee with customized tee sign is $100. Fee includes players green fees, cart, continental breakfast, buffet lunch and prizes. For player committee information, call 732-822-0813. For sponsorship committee information, call 908-489-6130.
Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will hold a retreat, “The Grace of Beauty – Falling In Love With The God of Beauty” Sept. 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants will receive Melannie Svoboda’s book, “The Grace of Beauty.” Sister of St. Joseph Marcy Springer, Francis House director, is the presenter. Fee is $40 and includes lunch and book. Fee for online participants is $25. To register, call 609-877-0509; visit FHOP.org or email [email protected].
Freehold Birthright, an organization that assists girls, women, families, during their pregnancy and after the baby is born, is in need of prolife volunteers. Training will be provided; volunteers who speak Spanish are encouraged. To volunteer, call 732-462-2888 during office hours Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. or email [email protected]. The agency is also in need of baby clothes which are gently used, stain free, seasonal appropriate, sizes newborn to 18 months. The agency is located at 41 E. Main St.
Freehold Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold its fourth annual Blessing of the Autos & Car Show Sept. 28 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, 61 Georiga Rd., Freehold. Trophy classes, food, music, games and activities will be featured throughout the day. Pre-registration fee for show cars is $20 or $25 the day of the show. For more information, call 917-509-7704; email [email protected] or visit RSPepe.Events.
Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune, will hold a Traditional Latin Mass with Gregorian Chant Aug. 18 at 3 p.m. in the church. Father Todd Carter, pastor will be celebrant. For questions, email [email protected].
Mercy Center, Asbury Park, is in need of the following items; diapers sizes 3 and up; baby wipes; coffee/tea; mayonnaise; mustard; ketchup; deodorant; toothpaste; toothbrushes; soap.
Nativity Parish, Fair Haven, is collecting the following items for military troops: any kind of nuts: peanuts, sunflower seeds, etc.; trail mix; beef jerky; powdered drink mix that can be poured into water bottles; protein and granola bars; dried fruit snacks; popcorn (microwavable); gum and hard candy; Rice Krispie treats; feminine hygiene products; laundry soap sheets; tissues in small packs; sunscreen; socks and cooling bandanas. Collection boxes are located at the entrance to the church.
Our Lady of Hope Parish, West Long Branch, gathers for recitation of the Rosary and consecration to the Blessed Mother every Thursday at 1 p.m. in the church hall of St. Mary Church, Deal. The gathering is a continuous cenacle of prayer to pray for priests and the salvation of the world. For information, call 732-531-6197.
St. Agnes Thrift Shop, 46 South Ave., Atlantic Highlands, is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations are accepted during these hours. For larger donations call 732-291-2156 to make arrangements.
St. Ann Parish, Keansburg, will host the relics of St. Padre Pio Sept, 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
St. Benedict Food Pantry, Holmdel, is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 5 to 6 p.m.; Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m., and Saturdays by appointment. is in need of donations of the following items: diapers (all sizes especially 5 and 6), baby food (stages 2/3), baby wipes, children’s cereal and snacks, coffee and tea, juice for adults and children, soup, bar soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes and mouthwash, laundry detergent, dish detergent, paper products – toilet tissue, paper towels.
St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Farmingdale, is hosting a school supply drive for children in grades K-12 until Aug. 15. New items are needed and include: backpacks, marble composition notebooks, lunchboxes, highlighters black and blue pens, #2 pencils, erasers, glue sticks, post-it notes, pencil cases, binders, pocket folders, colored pencils, box of 24 crayons, dry erase markers, school scissors, washable markers, colored pens, index cards, looseleaf paper, tab dividers for binders, gallon-size freeze bags, headphones or earbuds, construction paper and tissues. Items may be dropped off in the bin near in the church narthex Sunday through Thursday during office hours.
St. Denis Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference Food Pantry, Manasquan, is accepting donations of the following items: flour, sugar, crackers, fruit juice, toilet paper, tea, cookies, cooking oil and shaving cream. Cash and check donations are also welcome. Items may be left in the shopping cart in the gathering space of the main church or in the plastic box in the beach chapel. Pantry hours are Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. For questions or special food needs, call 732-223-1383.
St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, is hosting a back-to-school drive through the weekend of Aug. 10-11. Items needed include backpacks, lunchboxes and school supplies for children in Monmouth County who receive assistance through the NJ Division of Child Protection and Permanency.
St. Joseph Parish, Millstone Township, will host an adult faith enrichment series June 21, July 19 and Aug. 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Topic will be “Jesus in Art” from ancient Rome through the 20th century and the life of Dante Aligheri and his masterpiece The Divine Comedy. A sign-up sheet is available at the back of the church or email [email protected]. Participants can attend as many sessions as possible. The parish will hold its 24th annual St. Joseph Men’s Guild Golf Outing Sept. 12 at the Forsgate Country Club, Monroe. Brochures that include registration and sponsor information are available at the entrance of the church or www.stjosephmillstone.org/golf-outing. Proceeds will help with parish expenses as well as assist those in need. For further information, email [email protected].
St. Joseph Parish, Millstone Township, accepts donations of food, paper goods and toiletries. Goods may be placed in the bins inside the church entrance. After the first and third Sundays of the month, the items are given to the Millstone Community Center for distribution.
St. Joseph Parish Adult Faith Enrichment Summer Series, Millstone, will hold its next presentation Aug. 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Participants will explore “Jesus in Art” from ancient Rome through the 20 th century and the life of Dante Aligheri and his masterpiece The Divine Comedy. A sign-up sheet is available in the back of the church or by emailing [email protected].
St. Leo the Great Social Concerns Committee, Lincroft, is hosting a “Mary’s Cradle Collection” of baby items to benefit Birthright in Red Bank and Madonna House, Neptune. Items needed include: diapers (sizes newborn to 6), wipes, toiletries, summer wear, summer hats and sandals, crib sheets, layettes, and onesies (size 0 to 4T).
St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, continues its “Surviving Divorce: Hope and Healing for the Catholic Family” which is offered for separated and divorced Catholics. An information night will be held Aug. 15 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the parish center meeting room, 50 Hurleys Lane. For more information about the program, visit https://www.mylifechangecoach.com/divorceministry or call/text 201-753-8485. To register for the information night, email healingheartsfromdivorce@gmailcom and leave name and contact information. A program facilitator will respond with details and answer questions.
St. Mark Social Concerns Program, Sea Girt, is resuming the Frozen Meals Program to benefit The Center in Asbury Park, a volunteer-based state non-profit organization that provides support services for people with HIV/AIDS and their caregiver. Food trays and lids may be picked up next to the kitchen refrigerator in Father Child Hall in the church basement. Once the trays are filled with food, labels with the contents and date of preparation should be placed on the lids. The trays may be placed in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator. Parish volunteers will deliver the meals to The Center for distribution. For questions, call 732-449-5656. The social concerns committee is also collecting travel-size toiletries including: soap; shampoo; toothpaste; toothbrushes; combs. Items will be delivered by volunteers to those in need in Asbury Park.
St. Mark Parish, Sea Girt, needs volunteers for its English As A Second Language program on Sundays before the Spanish Mass. Experienced tutors will provide guidance. For more information, email [email protected].
St. Mary Parish Martha Mary Guild, Colts Neck, will hold a clothing sale Sept. 5, 6, 7 and 8. The collection of clothing begins Aug. 18. Volunteer are needed to help sort and setup during collection days and as staff during the sale. To volunteer, call 732-946-8631; 732-5311-4756 or 732-933-0720.
St. Michael Parish, West End, will hold its annual Blessing of Cars Aug. 20 following the 4 p.m. Mass and Aug. 21 following the 10 a.m. Mass.
St. Rose Parish’s Weekly Christian Meditation Group Online, Belmar, meets online on Monday evenings from 7 to 7:45 p.m. Participants listen to a New Testament reflection and the daily practice of meditation by Benedictine monks John Main or Laurence Freeman. The meeting ends with shared prayer. To join the group, email [email protected]. For questions, call 732-681-6238.
St. Rose Parish, Belmar, will celebrate the Feast of St. Rose Aug. 23. Mass will be celebrated at 4 p.m. with a picnic following in the parish parking lot at 5 p.m. Tickets are $10 per family.
St. Veronica Parish, Howell, will host the relics of St. Pio of Pietrelcina Aug. 23. Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with veneration of the relics from noon to 6 p.m. A presentation on “Encountering St. Pio” by Julia Calandria will start at 6. For more information, call 732-363-4200 or email [email protected].
Vincent’s Legacy, the furniture outreach of St. Vincent de Paul works with the local St. Vincent de Paul Societies to serve people in need of furniture and household items. Vincent’s Legacy accepts donates that are in good condition to redistribute. The Furniture Outreach Conference offers many opportunities for persons to share their time, talent and/or treasure, whether it’s with donating furniture, volunteering or offering financial support. Visit https://vicentslegacy.wixsite.com/furniture or the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FurnitureMinistry.com. For questions visit the website or email [email protected]. To make a financial contribution, send check made payable to Vincent’s Legacy Furniture Outreach Conference, and mail to P.O. Box 526, Manasquan, N.J. 08736. Call 609-557-7837.
Ocean County
Epiphany Parish, Brick, will hold its annual Italian Feast Aug. 15-18. Volunteers over 18 years old are needed to man the arcade area. Adult and children 12 years of age and older are needed in the parking area, for set up, clean up and breakdown. To volunteer or to see other ways to assist, visit www.signupgenius.com/findasignup or email [email protected].
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Lakewood, will host a Padre Pio Relic Exhibition the weekend of Aug. 10-11 on the campus of Holy Family Church, 1139 E. County Line Rd. On Aug. 10, veneration will be held from 9 a.m. to midnight with Mass being celebrated at 7 p.m. On Aug. 11, veneration will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 732-363-0139, ext. 409 or email [email protected].
St. Barnabas Food Pantry, Bayville, needs donations of crackers, instant potatoes, meal in a can, pancake mix/syrup, dessert, juice, coffee, toiletries, bar soap and toilet tissue Persons in need of food can call 732-269-2208, ext. 107.
St. Barnabas St. Vincent de Paul Society, Bayville, is sponsoring its annual school supplies drive. Items including backpacks, notebooks, ring binders, loose leaf paper, pens/pencils, crayons and marketers can be left in the church vestibules on the weekends. Items will be donated to needy families in the local community. Persons in need of items for their child can call the conference request line at 732-269-2208, ext. 134.
St. Dominic Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Brick, operates a food pantry with hours on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Donations of food are accepted. The conference’s thrift shop hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday are from 9 a.m. to noon. Donations of spring and summer clothing are being collected.
St. Dominic Parish, Brick, has rescheduled its second annual classic, custom and luxury car show to Aug. 17 from 5 to 9 p.m. the event will include food trucks and vendors, live music, blessing of the cars and awards. Pre-registration fee is $10 or $20 the day of the show. Make checks payable to St. Dominic Parish. To register, visit [email protected] or call 732-840-1410, ext. 250.
St. Dominic Parish, Brick, will celebrate the Feast of St. Dominic Aug. 11. The 10:30 a.m. Mass will be followed by a procession with a statue of the parish’s patron saint. A picnic/carnival will then take place. Tickets are $14 for adults and $7 for children ages five-12. No charge for children ages four and under. A special family purchase may be made for families at $50.
St. Francis Counseling Service, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, offers support for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Free and confidential services are available to Ocean County residents with children under age three who have experienced trauma and have postpartum symptoms. The program’s goal is to provide counseling for parents in the perinatal period, addressing new parenthood struggles, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, sudden infant death syndrome and trauma. The service is supported by Ocean County, Behavioral Health Services Grant. For more information, call 609-494-1554.
St. Francis of Assisi Food Pantry, Long Beach Island, is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. There is a need for the following food items children's cereal, chicken and beef broth, instant potatoes, jar pasta sauce, juice, canned chicken, canned fruit, cranberry sauce, canned corn, spinach, beets and yams, pancake mix and syrup, pudding, cookies and snacks, mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup, coffee -- regular and instant.
St. Francis of Assisi’s Human Concerns Committee, Brant Beach, is holding back-to-school collection. Needed donations include backpacks, lunch boxes, pencil boxes, pencils and pens, highlighters, crayons and markers, colored pencils, safety scissors, glue sticks, erasers, rulers, folders, notebooks, binders, dividers, filler paper and index cards. Donations should be brought to St. Francis Community Center, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, by Aug. 16. Call 609-494-8861, ext. 197.
St. John Parish Respect Life Committee, Lakehurst, is collecting a drive to benefit Birthright and Open Door pregnancy centers. Items needed include: powder, lotion, shampoo, baby soap, diaper rash cream, Vaseline, wipes, baby towels, wash cloths and size large diapers. Items may be brought to the carriage container in the church hall.
St. John Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Lakehurst, needs the following items for its food pantry: coffee (canned), tea bags, pasta sauce, boxed pasta (except elbow macaroni and spaghetti), hearty soups, canned white tuna and chicken, cereal for children and oatmeal, canned ravioli. Sugar free items such as jams, jellies, pancake syrup are also needed. food can be drooped in the blue bin in the church hall anytime the church is open. Frozen or refrigerated food should be brought to the pantry on Monday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m.
St. Joseph by the Sea, Mantoloking, will hold a “Friends of Bill W.: An Evening for Women in AA” Sept. 10 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Cost is $20 and includes dinner and speaker. The gatherings will be held monthly. To register, call 848-221-7704.
St. Junipero Serra Parish Adult Faith Formation, Seaside Park, will host “What you need to know about the New Testament’s Book of Revelation and were afraid to ask” on the following Monday evenings Aug. 5, 12, 19 and 26. Sessions will be held at 6:30 p.m. in the hall of St. Catharine of Siena Church, 50 E. St., Seaside Park. Conventual Franciscan Father Michael G. Lorentsen, pastor, will be presenter. To reserve a spot, call the parish office at 732-793-0041.
St. Junipero Serra Parish, Seaside Park, will host first class relics of three 20th century saints – St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, St. Maximilian Kolbe and St. John Paul II. The relics will be displayed in St. Catherine of Siena Church, Seaside Park, the weekend of Aug. 10-11 and in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Seaside Heights, the weekend of Aug. 17-18. Conventual Franciscan Father Jobe Abbass will preach at the Masses in each church on how the saints had a unique entrustment to the Blessed Mother that led to their deepening their relationship with Christ.
St. Luke Parish, Toms River, will hold its 11th annual White Mass for healthcare workers Oct. 20 at 2 p.m. All who work in healthcare of all faith traditions are welcome to attend the Mass in recognition of their contribution to the wellness of others. The Mass is held near the Feast of St. Luke which is Oct. 18.
St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, will hold its annual art show and sale Aug. 24 in the parish center on the campus of St. Mary of the Pines Church, Bishop Lane and McKinley Ave., Manahawkin. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 30 artists are participating and artworks to be featured include oils, watercolors, pastels, acrylics, pencil drawings, photography, painting on silk, quilts and cards. Lunch will be available for purchase. Proceeds will benefit local charities – the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry and Family Promise, which houses the homeless. For information, call 609-660-8062.
St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, holds Scripture sharing sessions every Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the rectory. Participants review the Readings for the upcoming Sunday and explore ways it applies to their lives through open discussion. For information, call 609-339-8969.
St. Mary’s Our Lady Rosary Makers Group, Barnegat, makes Rosaries to be donated to missions around the United States and around the world. All are welcome to join. For information, call 609-597-6211.
St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, Toms River, will host its 39th anniversary dinner dance Aug. 18 from 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $30 and includes music, dancing, dinner by Luigi's Italian Market and more. Tickets are available for purchase. Contact Marian Austin at 732-914-0300.
St. Monica Parish, Jackson, will offer a Bereavement Support Group Fall Session for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one or close friend. This is a Catholic centered Support Group offering participants a caring, compassionate and confidential environment in which to voice their feelings. The program introduction will be Sept. 15 at 12:15 p.m. in the church at 679 W. Veterans Hwy. The first session will begin Sept 22 at 12:15 p.m. For registration and details contact Deacon John L. White 848-992-1652 or [email protected].
St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will celebrate the Feast of the Assumption Aug. 15 with a 5 p.m. Mass in the church. A procession to the beach will follow at 6. A dinner will immediately follow in the parish hall. Parishioners are invited to bring bottles to collect blessed water. To attend the dinner, send name, phone number and payment ($10 per person) to the parish office at 103 Washington Ave., Lavallette, N.J. 08735 no later than Aug. 9. No charge for children under age 12. For more information or to volunteer with the dinner, call 908-902-6868.
St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will hold a festival dinner Sept. 21 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. in the parish center, Route 35N and Washington Ave. Tickets are $40 per person. Call 908-672-6710; 201-334-6686, or 732-995-0044.
St. Pius X Parish, Forked River, will celebrate the Feast of St. Pius X Aug. 18 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Food, soda and water will be available at no charge. Music and children’s activities are included.
St. Pius X Parish, Forked River, will hold an eight-week Journey Through Grief bereavement support group beginning Sept. 4. Sessions will be held for eight consecutive Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the meeting room. There is no fee but the group is limited to persons who have suffered the loss of a loved one prior to June, 2024. Registration forms, brochures and information sheets are available in the church narthex and the parish office. Forms should be mailed to Paula Litte, 24 Cedar St., Barnegat, N.J. 08005 by Aug. 30. A facilitator will respond with further information. The group is led by experienced, certified bereavement facilitators.
Visitation Parish, Brick, will hold a blood drive Aug. 14 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the church, 755 Mantoloking Rd. Appointments are required and may be made at www.redcrossblood.org (sponsor code: Church of the Visitation); call 732-475-0048 or visit visitationRCchurch.org/blood-drive.
All parishes and schools are welcome to submit their events to
[email protected].
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Tuesday, September 10, 2024
E-Editions
Events
The following parishes, schools and organizations in the Diocese of Trenton have announced these upcoming events:
Burlington County
Burlington County Chapter of the Knights of Columbus is working with the Vineland Knights of Columbus in hosting a drive to benefit people in Ukraine Oct. 12 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. in Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, 1620 Marne Highway, Hainesport. Non-perishable items being collected include noodles, rice, instant soup, instant oatmeal, nuts, cereal and energy bars. Personal items include tissues, bar soap, toothpaste, band-aids, disposable diapers, first-aid kits, pain relief medication, women’s hygiene products, medical tourniquet, underwear, socks and antibacterial wipes. Other needed items include blankets, sleeping bags, bookbags candles, crayons, pencils and coloring books. Items may also be purchased through the Amazon registry at amazon.com/registries/gl/guest-view/CW5G2OUMC43U. The Vineland Council will ship items to Poland and then to outside of Ukraine.
Court St. Elizabeth Ann Seton, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, Riverton, is collecting baby items for First Way of Burlington County. Needed items include diapers, wipes, baby clothes, formula and toiletries. There is an urgent need for diapers sizes 4, 5 and 6. Items may be dropped off in the basement of Sacred Heart Church, Riverton.
Holy Eucharist St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Tabernacle, has a food pantry that operates by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to noon. Persons in need of assistance and reside in Chatsworth, Vincentown, Shamong, Tabernacle or Southampton can call the hotline 609-268-0005 and leave a message with name and number and type of assistance needed. A Society member will return the call within 24 hours. All information remains confidential.
Our Lady of Perpetual Help Council, Knights of Columbus, Maple Shade, will hold a spaghetti dinner Aug. 16 from 5 to 7 p.m. in Nolan Hall. Tickets are $15 per person and may be purchased at the door. Fee for children ages 8 to 12 is $5 and no charge for children ages 7 and under.
Sacred Heart School, Mount Holly, will hold a clothing drive and uniform exchange Aug. 17 from 4 to 6 p.m. and Aug. 18 from 8 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. Pick-up day is Aug. 19. Acceptable items include clothing, shoes (bagged separately), soft household items – towels, bedding, stuffed animals, bikes, scooters and strollers. For information contact [email protected].
Sacred Heart Parish, Riverton, will hold will hold “Discovering Our Dignity,” a Walking With Purpose study of women of the Old and New Testaments, on Thursdays beginning Sept. 12 from 7 to 8:30 120p.m. in the Family Center. Participants will learn about the women and how the power of God worked in their lives. To register or for more information, email [email protected]. Visit Walking With Purpose at walkingwithpurpose.com.
St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton, will hold its annual carnival Aug. 19-24 on the parish grounds, Evans and Willow Bend Roads. Rides, food and games begin at 6 p.m. each evening. Free parking. All-access rides bracelets which can be used any night of the carnival can be purchased in advance for $30 at Shop Rite of Marlton, in the church vestibule after all weekend Masses or at the rectory Monday-Thursday, 9:30 a.m.-12:30 p.m. and from 2 to 5 p.m. Cost at the carnival will be $40 per bracelet. All proceeds benefit St. Joan of Arc School. For more information, visit stjoans.org/carnival; email [email protected] or call 856-983-0077.
St. Joseph Council, Knights of Columbus, Riverton, will host its fourth annual Vehicle Show Sept. 7 from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. registration starts at 8:30 a.m. and closes at 12:01 p.m. This is a judged show for all vehicles. First and runner-up awards in 12 classes. Registration fee is $20 on day-of-show only Proceeds will benefit 1st Way of Burlington County. Rain date is Sept. 8 from 12:30 to 4:30 p.m. Call 609-634-8750.
St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Burlington, is hosting a back-to-school supply drive for Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton. Donations are being accepted through Aug. 10. Items may be brought to the parish office at 223 E. Union St. call 609-386-0152 or 609-386-0163. The parish food pantry provides food and personal hygiene products for residents of Burlington City and Burlington Township who meet income specifications and/or receive public assistance, unemployment benefits or disability benefits. In addition, registered parishioners experiencing food shortages are encouraged to contact the food pantry for assistance. The pantry is open every Wednesday from 9:30-11 a.m. except for Thanksgiving week when the pantry is open on Monday. Persons who wish to volunteer on an as-needed basis can call 609-386-3650.
St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will gather for recitation of the Rosary Aug. 29 at 6:30 p.m. in the church. A reception will follow at 7 in Emmaus Center.
Mercer County
Lawrence Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a Golf Classic Sept. 18 at Hopewell Golf Club. Registration and hot breakfast will be held from 9:30 to 11 a.m. with a shotgun start at 11:15. Hotdogs and drinks are available. An awards dinner will follow golf. Donations are $150 per golfer. Mail checks to K of C Council #7000, P.O. Box 6425, Lawrenceville, N.J. 08648. For information, call 609-902-9207 or 609-240-7991.
Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, West Trenton, is hosting a Back-to-School drive for children in grades K-12during July and August. Donated items may include backpacks; two-pocket folders, subject and composition notebooks, three-ring binders, looseleaf paper, erasers, pens/pencils, pencil boxes, crayons, markers, glue sticks, rulers, protractors, scissors, sharpeners, calculators, dictionaries or gift certificates. Donations may be left in the parish hall. Items will be given to Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton and Mount Carmel Guild at the end of August.
Sacred Heart Parish, Trenton, is hosting “Blessings in a Backpack 2024,” collecting school supplies for children in need. The weekend of Aug. 10-11, school supplies may be placed at the altar rail at all weekend Masses. Items needed include: backpacks, basic calculators, binders, colored pencils, composition books, crayons, glue sticks, highlighters, No. 2 pencils, pencil boxes and pens, rulers, scissors (blunt ended) two-pocket folders, washable markers, wide-rule loose leaf paper.
St. Ann Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Lawrenceville, will collect new undershirts, underpants and socks in the original packing for children ages 5-12. Donations will be accepted at all Masses Aug. 10-11 and given to Home Front of Lawrence. On weekdays before Aug. 10, drop-off boxes will be available at the Faith Development Center entrance and in the church lobby. A drop-off box will also be available in St. Michael Church.
St. Anthony High School’s Class of 1974 will hold a 50th year reunion Oct. 5 at the Hilton Garden Inn, Route 130, Hamilton. Cost is $80 per person and covers a buffet dinner and dancing. Full details may be found at SAHSHamiltonNJ.com to register or call 609-731-1609. Persons needing hotel accommodations should call 609-578-6789 and use code STAH50.
St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, is hosting a “Come on a Journey to Emmaus,” inviting parishioners to walk and discuss the upcoming Sunday Mass Readings. Sessions are held every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. until Aug. 29. To register, visit the parish website or contact adultfaith@stgregorythegreatchurch.
St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton, will hold its next blood drive Sept. 13 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the gymnasium, 3500 South Broad St. Visit RedCrossBlood.org.
St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish Food Pantry, Hamilton, needs donations of soup, pasta, spaghetti sauce, macaroni and cheese, rice, tuna, cereal, peanut butter and jelly. Monetary donations are welcome.
The Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley will host a Women’s Bible Study on the following Sundays from 7 to 9 p.m. in the basement of St. Alphonsus Church, Hopewell: July 14 and 28; Aug. 25; Sept. 8 and 22. The study will focus on the book “Who Does He Say our Are?: Women Transformed by Christ in the Gospels” by Colleen C. Mitchell. Books may be purchased through any major book seller or at shop.franciscanmedia.org.
Monmouth County
Christ the King Holy Name Society, Long Branch, will hold the Dick Gallo Memorial Golf Outing Aug. 26 at Pebble Creek Colf Course, Colts Neck. Sponsorship tee with customized tee sign is $100. Fee includes players green fees, cart, continental breakfast, buffet lunch and prizes. For player committee information, call 732-822-0813. For sponsorship committee information, call 908-489-6130.
Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will hold a retreat, “The Grace of Beauty – Falling In Love With The God of Beauty” Sept. 10 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants will receive Melannie Svoboda’s book, “The Grace of Beauty.” Sister of St. Joseph Marcy Springer, Francis House director, is the presenter. Fee is $40 and includes lunch and book. Fee for online participants is $25. To register, call 609-877-0509; visit FHOP.org or email [email protected].
Freehold Birthright, an organization that assists girls, women, families, during their pregnancy and after the baby is born, is in need of prolife volunteers. Training will be provided; volunteers who speak Spanish are encouraged. To volunteer, call 732-462-2888 during office hours Monday-Thursday from 10 a.m.-2 p.m. or email [email protected]. The agency is also in need of baby clothes which are gently used, stain free, seasonal appropriate, sizes newborn to 18 months. The agency is located at 41 E. Main St.
Freehold Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold its fourth annual Blessing of the Autos & Car Show Sept. 28 from 11 a.m. to 4 p.m. at St. Robert Bellarmine Co-Cathedral, 61 Georiga Rd., Freehold. Trophy classes, food, music, games and activities will be featured throughout the day. Pre-registration fee for show cars is $20 or $25 the day of the show. For more information, call 917-509-7704; email [email protected] or visit RSPepe.Events.
Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune, will hold a Traditional Latin Mass with Gregorian Chant Aug. 18 at 3 p.m. in the church. Father Todd Carter, pastor will be celebrant. For questions, email [email protected].
Mercy Center, Asbury Park, is in need of the following items; diapers sizes 3 and up; baby wipes; coffee/tea; mayonnaise; mustard; ketchup; deodorant; toothpaste; toothbrushes; soap.
Nativity Parish, Fair Haven, is collecting the following items for military troops: any kind of nuts: peanuts, sunflower seeds, etc.; trail mix; beef jerky; powdered drink mix that can be poured into water bottles; protein and granola bars; dried fruit snacks; popcorn (microwavable); gum and hard candy; Rice Krispie treats; feminine hygiene products; laundry soap sheets; tissues in small packs; sunscreen; socks and cooling bandanas. Collection boxes are located at the entrance to the church.
Our Lady of Hope Parish, West Long Branch, gathers for recitation of the Rosary and consecration to the Blessed Mother every Thursday at 1 p.m. in the church hall of St. Mary Church, Deal. The gathering is a continuous cenacle of prayer to pray for priests and the salvation of the world. For information, call 732-531-6197.
St. Agnes Thrift Shop, 46 South Ave., Atlantic Highlands, is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. and on the second and fourth Saturdays of the month from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Donations are accepted during these hours. For larger donations call 732-291-2156 to make arrangements.
St. Ann Parish, Keansburg, will host the relics of St. Padre Pio Sept, 7 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m.
St. Benedict Food Pantry, Holmdel, is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 5 to 6 p.m.; Thursdays from 4 to 6 p.m., and Saturdays by appointment. is in need of donations of the following items: diapers (all sizes especially 5 and 6), baby food (stages 2/3), baby wipes, children’s cereal and snacks, coffee and tea, juice for adults and children, soup, bar soap, shampoo and conditioner, toothpaste, toothbrushes and mouthwash, laundry detergent, dish detergent, paper products – toilet tissue, paper towels.
St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Farmingdale, is hosting a school supply drive for children in grades K-12 until Aug. 15. New items are needed and include: backpacks, marble composition notebooks, lunchboxes, highlighters black and blue pens, #2 pencils, erasers, glue sticks, post-it notes, pencil cases, binders, pocket folders, colored pencils, box of 24 crayons, dry erase markers, school scissors, washable markers, colored pens, index cards, looseleaf paper, tab dividers for binders, gallon-size freeze bags, headphones or earbuds, construction paper and tissues. Items may be dropped off in the bin near in the church narthex Sunday through Thursday during office hours.
St. Denis Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference Food Pantry, Manasquan, is accepting donations of the following items: flour, sugar, crackers, fruit juice, toilet paper, tea, cookies, cooking oil and shaving cream. Cash and check donations are also welcome. Items may be left in the shopping cart in the gathering space of the main church or in the plastic box in the beach chapel. Pantry hours are Tuesdays from 1-3 p.m. For questions or special food needs, call 732-223-1383.
St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, is hosting a back-to-school drive through the weekend of Aug. 10-11. Items needed include backpacks, lunchboxes and school supplies for children in Monmouth County who receive assistance through the NJ Division of Child Protection and Permanency.
St. Joseph Parish, Millstone Township, will host an adult faith enrichment series June 21, July 19 and Aug. 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Topic will be “Jesus in Art” from ancient Rome through the 20th century and the life of Dante Aligheri and his masterpiece The Divine Comedy. A sign-up sheet is available at the back of the church or email [email protected]. Participants can attend as many sessions as possible. The parish will hold its 24th annual St. Joseph Men’s Guild Golf Outing Sept. 12 at the Forsgate Country Club, Monroe. Brochures that include registration and sponsor information are available at the entrance of the church or www.stjosephmillstone.org/golf-outing. Proceeds will help with parish expenses as well as assist those in need. For further information, email [email protected].
St. Joseph Parish, Millstone Township, accepts donations of food, paper goods and toiletries. Goods may be placed in the bins inside the church entrance. After the first and third Sundays of the month, the items are given to the Millstone Community Center for distribution.
St. Joseph Parish Adult Faith Enrichment Summer Series, Millstone, will hold its next presentation Aug. 16 from 10 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Participants will explore “Jesus in Art” from ancient Rome through the 20 th century and the life of Dante Aligheri and his masterpiece The Divine Comedy. A sign-up sheet is available in the back of the church or by emailing [email protected].
St. Leo the Great Social Concerns Committee, Lincroft, is hosting a “Mary’s Cradle Collection” of baby items to benefit Birthright in Red Bank and Madonna House, Neptune. Items needed include: diapers (sizes newborn to 6), wipes, toiletries, summer wear, summer hats and sandals, crib sheets, layettes, and onesies (size 0 to 4T).
St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, continues its “Surviving Divorce: Hope and Healing for the Catholic Family” which is offered for separated and divorced Catholics. An information night will be held Aug. 15 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the parish center meeting room, 50 Hurleys Lane. For more information about the program, visit https://www.mylifechangecoach.com/divorceministry or call/text 201-753-8485. To register for the information night, email healingheartsfromdivorce@gmailcom and leave name and contact information. A program facilitator will respond with details and answer questions.
St. Mark Social Concerns Program, Sea Girt, is resuming the Frozen Meals Program to benefit The Center in Asbury Park, a volunteer-based state non-profit organization that provides support services for people with HIV/AIDS and their caregiver. Food trays and lids may be picked up next to the kitchen refrigerator in Father Child Hall in the church basement. Once the trays are filled with food, labels with the contents and date of preparation should be placed on the lids. The trays may be placed in the freezer compartment of the refrigerator. Parish volunteers will deliver the meals to The Center for distribution. For questions, call 732-449-5656. The social concerns committee is also collecting travel-size toiletries including: soap; shampoo; toothpaste; toothbrushes; combs. Items will be delivered by volunteers to those in need in Asbury Park.
St. Mark Parish, Sea Girt, needs volunteers for its English As A Second Language program on Sundays before the Spanish Mass. Experienced tutors will provide guidance. For more information, email [email protected].
St. Mary Parish Martha Mary Guild, Colts Neck, will hold a clothing sale Sept. 5, 6, 7 and 8. The collection of clothing begins Aug. 18. Volunteer are needed to help sort and setup during collection days and as staff during the sale. To volunteer, call 732-946-8631; 732-5311-4756 or 732-933-0720.
St. Michael Parish, West End, will hold its annual Blessing of Cars Aug. 20 following the 4 p.m. Mass and Aug. 21 following the 10 a.m. Mass.
St. Rose Parish’s Weekly Christian Meditation Group Online, Belmar, meets online on Monday evenings from 7 to 7:45 p.m. Participants listen to a New Testament reflection and the daily practice of meditation by Benedictine monks John Main or Laurence Freeman. The meeting ends with shared prayer. To join the group, email [email protected]. For questions, call 732-681-6238.
St. Rose Parish, Belmar, will celebrate the Feast of St. Rose Aug. 23. Mass will be celebrated at 4 p.m. with a picnic following in the parish parking lot at 5 p.m. Tickets are $10 per family.
St. Veronica Parish, Howell, will host the relics of St. Pio of Pietrelcina Aug. 23. Mass will be celebrated at 11 a.m. with veneration of the relics from noon to 6 p.m. A presentation on “Encountering St. Pio” by Julia Calandria will start at 6. For more information, call 732-363-4200 or email [email protected].
Vincent’s Legacy, the furniture outreach of St. Vincent de Paul works with the local St. Vincent de Paul Societies to serve people in need of furniture and household items. Vincent’s Legacy accepts donates that are in good condition to redistribute. The Furniture Outreach Conference offers many opportunities for persons to share their time, talent and/or treasure, whether it’s with donating furniture, volunteering or offering financial support. Visit https://vicentslegacy.wixsite.com/furniture or the Facebook page: https://www.facebook.com/FurnitureMinistry.com. For questions visit the website or email [email protected]. To make a financial contribution, send check made payable to Vincent’s Legacy Furniture Outreach Conference, and mail to P.O. Box 526, Manasquan, N.J. 08736. Call 609-557-7837.
Ocean County
Epiphany Parish, Brick, will hold its annual Italian Feast Aug. 15-18. Volunteers over 18 years old are needed to man the arcade area. Adult and children 12 years of age and older are needed in the parking area, for set up, clean up and breakdown. To volunteer or to see other ways to assist, visit www.signupgenius.com/findasignup or email [email protected].
Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Lakewood, will host a Padre Pio Relic Exhibition the weekend of Aug. 10-11 on the campus of Holy Family Church, 1139 E. County Line Rd. On Aug. 10, veneration will be held from 9 a.m. to midnight with Mass being celebrated at 7 p.m. On Aug. 11, veneration will be held from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. For more information, call 732-363-0139, ext. 409 or email [email protected].
St. Barnabas Food Pantry, Bayville, needs donations of crackers, instant potatoes, meal in a can, pancake mix/syrup, dessert, juice, coffee, toiletries, bar soap and toilet tissue Persons in need of food can call 732-269-2208, ext. 107.
St. Barnabas St. Vincent de Paul Society, Bayville, is sponsoring its annual school supplies drive. Items including backpacks, notebooks, ring binders, loose leaf paper, pens/pencils, crayons and marketers can be left in the church vestibules on the weekends. Items will be donated to needy families in the local community. Persons in need of items for their child can call the conference request line at 732-269-2208, ext. 134.
St. Dominic Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Brick, operates a food pantry with hours on Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 9 a.m. to noon. Donations of food are accepted. The conference’s thrift shop hours are Monday, Wednesday, Thursday and Saturday are from 9 a.m. to noon. Donations of spring and summer clothing are being collected.
St. Dominic Parish, Brick, has rescheduled its second annual classic, custom and luxury car show to Aug. 17 from 5 to 9 p.m. the event will include food trucks and vendors, live music, blessing of the cars and awards. Pre-registration fee is $10 or $20 the day of the show. Make checks payable to St. Dominic Parish. To register, visit [email protected] or call 732-840-1410, ext. 250.
St. Dominic Parish, Brick, will celebrate the Feast of St. Dominic Aug. 11. The 10:30 a.m. Mass will be followed by a procession with a statue of the parish’s patron saint. A picnic/carnival will then take place. Tickets are $14 for adults and $7 for children ages five-12. No charge for children ages four and under. A special family purchase may be made for families at $50.
St. Francis Counseling Service, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, offers support for perinatal mood and anxiety disorders. Free and confidential services are available to Ocean County residents with children under age three who have experienced trauma and have postpartum symptoms. The program’s goal is to provide counseling for parents in the perinatal period, addressing new parenthood struggles, perinatal mood and anxiety disorders, infertility, miscarriage, stillbirth, sudden infant death syndrome and trauma. The service is supported by Ocean County, Behavioral Health Services Grant. For more information, call 609-494-1554.
St. Francis of Assisi Food Pantry, Long Beach Island, is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. There is a need for the following food items children's cereal, chicken and beef broth, instant potatoes, jar pasta sauce, juice, canned chicken, canned fruit, cranberry sauce, canned corn, spinach, beets and yams, pancake mix and syrup, pudding, cookies and snacks, mayonnaise, mustard and ketchup, coffee -- regular and instant.
St. Francis of Assisi’s Human Concerns Committee, Brant Beach, is holding back-to-school collection. Needed donations include backpacks, lunch boxes, pencil boxes, pencils and pens, highlighters, crayons and markers, colored pencils, safety scissors, glue sticks, erasers, rulers, folders, notebooks, binders, dividers, filler paper and index cards. Donations should be brought to St. Francis Community Center, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, by Aug. 16. Call 609-494-8861, ext. 197.
St. John Parish Respect Life Committee, Lakehurst, is collecting a drive to benefit Birthright and Open Door pregnancy centers. Items needed include: powder, lotion, shampoo, baby soap, diaper rash cream, Vaseline, wipes, baby towels, wash cloths and size large diapers. Items may be brought to the carriage container in the church hall.
St. John Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Lakehurst, needs the following items for its food pantry: coffee (canned), tea bags, pasta sauce, boxed pasta (except elbow macaroni and spaghetti), hearty soups, canned white tuna and chicken, cereal for children and oatmeal, canned ravioli. Sugar free items such as jams, jellies, pancake syrup are also needed. food can be drooped in the blue bin in the church hall anytime the church is open. Frozen or refrigerated food should be brought to the pantry on Monday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m.
St. Joseph by the Sea, Mantoloking, will hold a “Friends of Bill W.: An Evening for Women in AA” Sept. 10 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. Cost is $20 and includes dinner and speaker. The gatherings will be held monthly. To register, call 848-221-7704.
St. Junipero Serra Parish Adult Faith Formation, Seaside Park, will host “What you need to know about the New Testament’s Book of Revelation and were afraid to ask” on the following Monday evenings Aug. 5, 12, 19 and 26. Sessions will be held at 6:30 p.m. in the hall of St. Catharine of Siena Church, 50 E. St., Seaside Park. Conventual Franciscan Father Michael G. Lorentsen, pastor, will be presenter. To reserve a spot, call the parish office at 732-793-0041.
St. Junipero Serra Parish, Seaside Park, will host first class relics of three 20th century saints – St. Maria Faustina Kowalska, St. Maximilian Kolbe and St. John Paul II. The relics will be displayed in St. Catherine of Siena Church, Seaside Park, the weekend of Aug. 10-11 and in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Church, Seaside Heights, the weekend of Aug. 17-18. Conventual Franciscan Father Jobe Abbass will preach at the Masses in each church on how the saints had a unique entrustment to the Blessed Mother that led to their deepening their relationship with Christ.
St. Luke Parish, Toms River, will hold its 11th annual White Mass for healthcare workers Oct. 20 at 2 p.m. All who work in healthcare of all faith traditions are welcome to attend the Mass in recognition of their contribution to the wellness of others. The Mass is held near the Feast of St. Luke which is Oct. 18.
St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, will hold its annual art show and sale Aug. 24 in the parish center on the campus of St. Mary of the Pines Church, Bishop Lane and McKinley Ave., Manahawkin. The event will run from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. More than 30 artists are participating and artworks to be featured include oils, watercolors, pastels, acrylics, pencil drawings, photography, painting on silk, quilts and cards. Lunch will be available for purchase. Proceeds will benefit local charities – the St. Vincent de Paul food pantry and Family Promise, which houses the homeless. For information, call 609-660-8062.
St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, holds Scripture sharing sessions every Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the rectory. Participants review the Readings for the upcoming Sunday and explore ways it applies to their lives through open discussion. For information, call 609-339-8969.
St. Mary’s Our Lady Rosary Makers Group, Barnegat, makes Rosaries to be donated to missions around the United States and around the world. All are welcome to join. For information, call 609-597-6211.
St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, Toms River, will host its 39th anniversary dinner dance Aug. 18 from 2 to 6 p.m. Tickets are $30 and includes music, dancing, dinner by Luigi's Italian Market and more. Tickets are available for purchase. Contact Marian Austin at 732-914-0300.
St. Monica Parish, Jackson, will offer a Bereavement Support Group Fall Session for those who are grieving the loss of a loved one or close friend. This is a Catholic centered Support Group offering participants a caring, compassionate and confidential environment in which to voice their feelings. The program introduction will be Sept. 15 at 12:15 p.m. in the church at 679 W. Veterans Hwy. The first session will begin Sept 22 at 12:15 p.m. For registration and details contact Deacon John L. White 848-992-1652 or [email protected].
St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will celebrate the Feast of the Assumption Aug. 15 with a 5 p.m. Mass in the church. A procession to the beach will follow at 6. A dinner will immediately follow in the parish hall. Parishioners are invited to bring bottles to collect blessed water. To attend the dinner, send name, phone number and payment ($10 per person) to the parish office at 103 Washington Ave., Lavallette, N.J. 08735 no later than Aug. 9. No charge for children under age 12. For more information or to volunteer with the dinner, call 908-902-6868.
St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will hold a festival dinner Sept. 21 from 6:30 to 10 p.m. in the parish center, Route 35N and Washington Ave. Tickets are $40 per person. Call 908-672-6710; 201-334-6686, or 732-995-0044.
St. Pius X Parish, Forked River, will celebrate the Feast of St. Pius X Aug. 18 from 1 to 3:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Food, soda and water will be available at no charge. Music and children’s activities are included.
St. Pius X Parish, Forked River, will hold an eight-week Journey Through Grief bereavement support group beginning Sept. 4. Sessions will be held for eight consecutive Wednesdays at 7 p.m. in the meeting room. There is no fee but the group is limited to persons who have suffered the loss of a loved one prior to June, 2024. Registration forms, brochures and information sheets are available in the church narthex and the parish office. Forms should be mailed to Paula Litte, 24 Cedar St., Barnegat, N.J. 08005 by Aug. 30. A facilitator will respond with further information. The group is led by experienced, certified bereavement facilitators.
Visitation Parish, Brick, will hold a blood drive Aug. 14 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the church, 755 Mantoloking Rd. Appointments are required and may be made at www.redcrossblood.org (sponsor code: Church of the Visitation); call 732-475-0048 or visit visitationRCchurch.org/blood-drive.
All parishes and schools are welcome to submit their events to
[email protected].