In Local News as of Dec. 7, 2024

December 7, 2024 at 1:09 p.m.

The following parishes, schools and organizations in the Diocese of Trenton have announced these upcoming events:

Burlington County

Blessed Kateri Tekakwitha Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a Breakfast with Santa Dec. 14 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. in St. Isaac Jogues Parish Hall, Marlton. Ticket sales at the door are $12 for adults; $6 for children, and $30 for a family of four. For information, contact [email protected].

Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle, will hold a Eucharistic Adoration Holy Hour Dec. 11 from 7 to 8 p.m. The parish will hold a Drive-through Living Nativity Dec. 13 from 6 to 9 p.m. Live actors and animals in scenes from the Christmas story will be featured. No admission to attend.

Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle, will hold a Food and Wine Fest Luau Jan. 25 from 7 to 10 p.m. Tickets are available for purchase on Dec. 7. Cost is $55 if purchased between Dec. 7-15 or $60 after Dec. 15.

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.

Jesus Bread of Life Cemetery and Mausoleum, Mount Laurel, will hold an Advent Celebration and Christmas Tree Blessing Dec. 9 at 6 p.m. A Christmas recital will follow. Families with loved ones buried or entombed, may pick up a picture frame and include a  photo of their loved one to be hung on the Christmas Tree. For those not able to attend, photos may be sent to Jesus Bread of Life Cemetery and Mausoleum at 3055 Fostertown Rd., Mount Laurel, N.J. 08054.

Mary, Mother of the Church Parish Music Ministry, Bordentown, will hold a Christmas Carol Service Dec. 15 at 6 p.m. in St. Mary Church, Bordentown. The service will feature traditional and contemporary Christmas music and select readings. Light refreshments will follow. A freewill offering will be collected to benefit the parish’s St. Vincent de Paul conference and food pantry.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Maple Shade, will host a “Comfort & Joy” Advent concert with Sarah Hart and Steve Angrisano Dec. 18 at 6:30 p.m. in the church. A social with hot chocolate and cookies will follow in Nolan Hall. For information, call 856-667-8850 or visit olphparish.com.

Resurrection Parish, Delran, will host a “Find Peace in Advent” retreat Dec,. 9 at 8 p.m. in St. Casimir Church, Riverside, and Dec. 10 at 7 p.m. in Holy Name Church, Delran. Presenter is Catholic speaker, author and radio host Gary Zimak. The retreat is based on Zimak’s book “Find Peace in Advent! 4 Weeks to Worrying Less at Christmas.” There is no fee to attend but a free-will offering will be collected.

St. Isaac Jogues Parish Music Ministry, Marlton, will present a Christmas concert Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. in the church. The event is free and open to the public.

St. Isaac Jogues Parish, Marlton, is holding Advent Adoration Nights Dec. 10 at 17 at 7 p.m. The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available Dec. 10. For more information, contact [email protected].

St. Isaac Jogues Parish, Marlton, is holding a Christmas Giving Event through Dec. 17. A Jesse Tree will be in the gathering space of the church and decorated with tags marked for stores where gift cards can be purchased. The gift cards can then be placed in an envelope marked SVDP Christmas Giving; dropped in the collection basket at Mass or bring to the parish office Monday-Friday from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

St. Kateri Tekakwitha Council, Knights of Columbus, Marlton, will hold a Breakfast With Santa Dec. 14 from 8:30 to 11:30 a.m. in St. Isaac Jogues Parish Hall, Marlton. Advanced ticket sales are available after all Masses at $10 for adults; $5 at the door and $25 for a family of four. Tickets at the door are $12 for adults; $6 for children, and $30 for a family of four. For information, email [email protected].

St. Mary of the Lakes Ministry of Consolation, Medford, will hold bereavement support meetings on Tuesdays from Nov. 5 to Dec. 17 at 10 a.m. in the conference room (parish office.) Open for those who have experienced a loss, the group covers a broad range of grief concerns focusing on the journey from grief to healing. All meetings are confidential. For more information, call 609-654-8208, ext. 110.

St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, Medford, is holding an Advent Parish Mission Dec. 10 in the church. Music begins at 6:45 p.m.  with the mission starting at 7. Dan Palmieri of JMJ Missions will present “Mary: God’s Secret Weapon.” The Sacrament of Reconciliation will be available.

St. Mary of the Lakes Parish, Medford, is holding a 16-week series to prepare high school students to receive the Sacrament of Confirmation as well as adults with a deeper understanding or the Catholic faith. Classes are held on Sundays from 6:30 to 7:45 p.m. Class dates are Nov. 25, Dec. 15, Jan. 5, 12, 19 and 26, Feb. 2, 16, 23, March 2, 9, 23, 30, April 6, 13, May 4 and 18. Presenters are parish clergy and staff. To attend, email [email protected] or sign up in the parish parking lot entrance.

Tabernacle Council, Knights of Columbus, is hosting a Christmas tree fundraiser. Orders for Christmas trees are being accepted. Families can purchase a cut Christmas tree in memory of or in honor of a family member or loved one to be lit on the parish grounds. Trees are $125.

Mercer County

Ewing Council, Knights of Columbus, will sell “Keep Christ in Christmas” car magnets and Christmas cards at all Masses. Cost is $5 per magnet and $10 per box of cards. Proceeds will benefit the council’s various charities.

Hamilton Council, Knights of Columbus, is accepting donations of clothing. Donations may be placed in the two bins on the campus of St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square.

Incarnation-St. James Parish, Ewing, will host a Breakfast with Santa Dec. 15 from 8:30 to 11 a.m. in the auditorium of Incarnation Church. Breakfast will be available from 9 to 10:30 and Santa will visit from 9:15 to 10:15. Crafts, food and music will be featured. Tickets are $5 for adults and children under age 10 will be admitted free. Order tickets in advance by calling 609-882-9560 or scan the QR code found in the parish bulletin.

Incarnation-St. James Religious Education Program, Ewing, will hold a sock drive from Dec. 1-31 to benefit the Salvation Army. Donations may be placed in the boxes found at the front entrance of both worship sites. Donations may also be purchased through the Amazon Wish list using the QR code in the parish bulletin.

Lawrence Council, Knights of Columbus, is participating in the “Toys for Tots” U.S. Marine Corps Program. Working in collaboration with Captain Paul’s Firehouse Dogs, the council is collecting new and unwrapped toys for the U.S. Marine Corps in which toys will be distributed to children in need. Toys will be collected through Dec. 13. Donations may be placed in the boxes in St. Ann Church; Captain Paul’s Firehouse Dogs, 2230 Princeton Pike, Lawrenceville or Candelas Brothers Pizza and Italian Cuisine, 160 Lawrenceville-Pennington Rd. for information, email [email protected]. The council is also participating in the “Send Heroes Home for the Holidays.” Monetary donations are being collected to  help send active duty military personnel home for the holidays. To make a donation, send check made payable to “Lawrence Council #7000” SHH and mail to KofC Lawrence Council #7000 SHH, P.O. Box 6425, Lawrenceville, N.J. 08648.

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, West Trenton, will host a “Community Sing of Handel’s Messiah” Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. in the church. A $10 freewill offering will be accepted at the door. Music scores will be available. Light refreshments will follow in the parish hall.

Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, Hamilton, will hold an “Adopt a Child/Family” in which gifts will be collected for children and families in need. Sign up online at www.ols-sa.org/adopt or fill out the form found in the parish bulleting and return in the collection basket at Mass or drop off at the parish office. The information, including the name, age, size and gift wish of each child will be emailed or mailed. Gifts will be collected at Our Lady of Sorrows School cafeteria Dec. 8 from noon to 2 p.m. Gift cards are also accepted. For information, call 609-220-8181 or email [email protected].

S. Ann Parish Youth Choir, Lawrenceville, will present a Christmas Concert Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. in the church. The concert is free and open to the public.

St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction, will host a Christmas Giving Tree. Gift tags can be selected after Masses the weekend of Dec. 7-8. Gifts should be returned to the parish by 1 p.m. Dec. 15. The parish will hold a Christmas Carol Festival Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. in the church. Refreshments will follow.

St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton, will host a 24-week Bible study on Matthew’s Gospel. The study will begin Sept. 25 and will be held for 24 Wednesdays from 7 to 8:15 p.m. in the All Purpose Room. Fee is $35 and registration is required. During the study, participants will explore how Jesus is challenging and empowering his people to new levels of holiness. To register, call the Faith Formation Office at 609-585-0542.

St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish Bereavement Support, Hamilton, meets on the first Tuesday of the month from 7:30 to 9 p.m. in the Spiritual Center. The meetings provide an environment that allows individuals the freedom to share stories and faith experiences. Support groups provide safety, community, spiritual consolation, understanding and opportunities for growth beyond the pain and sorrow of grief. For more information, call 609-890-1011.

The Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley will hold a Christmas celebration Dec. 14 in St.  James Church. Children from the parish will present “A Christmas Story” at 4:45 p.m. with Mass following at 5. After Mass, there will be a tree-lighting and refreshments at the rectory.

Monmouth County

Christian Brothers Academy, Lincroft, will present “An Irish Christmas at Kylemore” featuring Dr. Mark Doerries Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Quinn Library. Dr. Doerries will present the musical, artistic and cultural traditions of an Irish Christmas at Kylemore Abbey. The lecture celebrates the choral music of the Advent and Christmas seasons and how music is an integral part of the life of Kylemore Abbey. Dr. Doerries serves on the faculty of the University of Notre Dame where he heads the graduate choral conduction studio, is associate professor of the Practice in Conducting, and is artistic director of the Notre Dame Children’s Choir. He has recorded five billboard chart-topping albums and has commissioned and premiered more than 30 works by various composers. He is the co-recipient of a $1.6 million Lilly Endowment Grant for sacred music and a $600,000 Presidential Circle Award that supports multiple music programs at Notre Dame.  

Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will host a Centering Prayer Weekend Retreat will take place Dec. 13 starting at 6:45 p.m. and ending Dec. 15 at 1 p.m. The retreat will provide time, space and discipline for prayer periods that are held alone and in common. Fee is $200 with a $100 non-refundable deposit. Commuters are welcome and all meals are included. A retreat, “Be Born in Me, Make My Heart Your Bethlehem,” will be held Dec. 16 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fee is $25 for in-person participants and includes lunch or $20 for online. Jill Snyder is the presenter. A silent directed retreat weekend will be held Jan. 10 starting at 6:45 p.m. and ending Jan. 12 at 1 p.m. Daily Mass, spiritual direction and optional Centering Prayer periods are included. Fee is $200 with a $100 non-refundable deposit at time of registration. An End of the Year Retreat will be held Dec. 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 2 p.m. The day will focus on goals, hopes and desires for 2025. Participants should bring a lunch and a free-will offering will be collected. Sister Marcy is the presenter. A seven-day Silent Directed Retreat will be held Jan. 19-26. Arrival time on Jan. 19 is 6:45 p.m. and departure is at 10 a.m. Jan. 26. Daily Mass, spiritual direction and optional Centering Prayer periods are included. Fee is $700 with a $100 non-refundable deposit with registration. To register, visit [email protected]; call 609-877-0509 or visit FHOP.org.

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, is collecting used and unused eyeglasses for the Lions Club. Eyeglasses may be deposited in the drop-off baskets located at the main entrances of St. Rose of Lima Church and Chapel, Freehold.

Holy Family Parish, Hazlet, will offer “Five First Saturday in Reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary Oct. 5, Nov. 2, Dec. 7, Jan. 4 and Feb. 2. All are invited to join in making this devotion to the Blessed Mother by partaking in making the five first Saturdays in reparation to the Immaculate Heart of Mary. Participants will have the opportunity to make a good Confession, attend 8 a.m. Mass, receive Holy Communion and pray five decades of the Holy Rosary. For questions, call 908-461-5980. 

Holy Innocents Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Neptune, is in need of non-perishable items, paper products, personal hygiene products, and cleaning supplies. The pantry is open after the 4 p.m. Mass on Saturday and after the 10 a.m. and noon Masses. The conference provides assistance to the needy of the Neptune area with rent, utilities and other basic necessities. Persons in need of assistance can call 732 922-4242, ext. 124.

Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune, will hold a 10-week Scripture Study, “What We Believe – The Beauty of the Catholic Faith,” Dec. 4, 18, Jan. 8, 15, 22, 29, Feb. 5, 12, 19, 26 and March 5. Cost is $29.95 for workbook, book and “What We Believe” chart. Register by sending a registration form (available here) along with payment to the parish rectory or during the registration weekend Nov. 23-24. Make checks payable to Holy Innocents Church and send to 3455 West Bangs Ave., Neptune, N.J. 07755. To request financial assistance or for questions, email [email protected].

Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune, will celebrate a Traditional Latin Mass Dec. 15 at 3 p.m. in the church. For questions, contact Father Todd Carter, pastor, at [email protected].

Mary, Queen of the Knights Council, Knights of Columbus, will celebrate the Vigil of Our Lady of Guadalupe Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. in Holy Innocents Church, Neptune. The evening will include a talk about the story and history of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Josue Arriola, director for Evangelization and Family Life, will be the presenter. Light refreshments will be served. For more information, visit knights816.org.

Mercy Center, Asbury Park, is in need of the following items: diapers sizes three and higher; baby wipes; coffee/tea; mayonnaise, mustard, ketchup; deodorant; toothpaste and toothbrushes; soap. Containers are located at the entrances to St. Mark Church, Sea Girt.

Nativity Parish Basic Needs Committee, Fair Haven, seeks support for its holiday food collection. Online donations may be made at https://forms.parishgiving.org/form-5676448. The form asks for donors to choose the number of families they wish to sponsor/co-sponsor for Thanksgiving or Christmas. Forms may also be found in the parish bulletin. Once completed send to the Church of the Nativity: Attn: Basic-Needs Holiday Food Collection, 180 Ridge Rd., Fair Haven, N.J. 07704. Donations of turkeys and hams are also accepted. Donations should be placed in the parish hall freezer or refrigerator.

Nativity Parish Basic Needs Committee, Fair Haven, is holding a food collection through Dec. 15. Non-perishable food items that are needed  include rice, pasta, pasta sauce, peanut butter, jelly, soup, boxed potatoes and stuffing, canned fruits and vegetables, boxed cereal, cake mixes and icing, canned meats. Donations may be placed in the bins located at the entrances to the church. Online donations may be made at nativitychurchnj.org under the food collection tabs. Donations of turkeys  and hams may also be donated. Place in parish hall freezer or refrigerator.

Our Lady of Hope Parish, West Long Branch, will host a five-part adult faith enrichment program -- Bishop Robert Barron’s “Eucharistic Sacred Meal, Sacrifice and Real Presence.” Sessions will be held Nov. 7, 14, 21, Dec. 5 and 12 in the parish office meeting room of St. Jerome Church, West Long Branch. The weekly sessions will focus on material covered by Bishop Baron in his book, “This Is My Body: A Call to Eucharistic Revival” in addition to his featured DVD presentation. The sessions will include time for prayer, discussion and fellowship. Registration fee is $5. The parish has copies of the required resources for the first 20 registrants; late registrants can purchase a copy through Amazon. To register, text 908-309-0030 or email [email protected].

Our Lady of Perpetual Help-St. Agnes Parish, Atlantic Highlands, will hold a Christmas Festival Dec. 14 from 3 to 8 p.m. in the Charles J. Hess Parish Center, Atlantic Highlands.

Prince of Peace Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a Christmas Tree Program in St. Thomas More Church, Manalapan. Fee to dedicate a tree in memory of a loved one or to wish others a Merry Christmas is $175 per tree. Proceeds will benefit the parish and The Make a Wish Foundation. Applications are available in the parish bulletin. Payments by cash, check or Venmo are accepted. Make checks payable to Knights of Columbus #5903. For more information, call 646-499-1449.

San Alfonso Retreat House, West End, will hold an Advent Evening of Taize Prayer Dec. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m.. Light refreshments will be served and a freewill offering will be taken. to register, call 732-222-2731, ext. 140 or sanalfonsoretreats.org. Register by Dec. 10.

Sisters of St. Joseph Center for Spirituality, Ocean Grove, will hold an Advent Silent Directed Prayer Weekend Dec. 13-15. Fee is $270. To register, email Sister Joannie Cassidy at [email protected]. The retreat center is located at 21 Main Ave., Ocean Grove.

St. Agnes St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Atlantic Highlands, is collecting gift cards for families in need to purchase clothes, toys and food from local and online stores – Kohl’s, Dollar Tree, Foodtown, Shop Rite. Gift cards can be placed in the container near the Giving Tree in the back of the church or dropped off at the parish office. Gift cards will not be accepted after Dec. 8.

The Choir of the Red Bank Oratory along with the Orchestra of St. Cecilia, Red Bank, and the Diocesan Festival Choir will present Part 1 of George Frideric Handel’s Messiah Dec. 8 at 3:30 p.m. in St. Aloysius Church, Jackson. Tickets are $20 for adults; $15 for seniors and students; children under 8 are free. Tickets may be purchased at the door or in advance  at https://dioceseoftrenton.org/diocesan-festival-choir.

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. Clement Parish, Matawan, will l host a visit from Santa Dec. 15 from 10:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. in the school building.

St. Denis Bereavement Support Group, Manasquan, meets on Thursdays. Morning sessions are from 10 to 11 a.m. in the parish office conference room. For questions or to attend, call 732-223-0287 or email [email protected].

St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, will hold its first annual Christmas Carol Sing-Along Dec. 15 at 3:30 p.m. in the church. Music will be provided by the parish musicians, cantors and members of the parish choir.

St. Denis Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference Food Pantry, Manasquan, is accepting donations of the following items: toilet tissue, detergent, crackers, cookies, cereal, juice, small boxes of sugar, tea and ketchup. The pantry is located in Msgr. O’Connor Hall. The pantry operates on Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. Cash and check donations are welcome and can be left in the envelopes with the donated food. Indicate “Food Pantry” in the memo line of the checks. For questions or special food needs, call 732-223-1383.

St. Gabriel Parish, St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Marlboro, is collecting the following items: laundry detergent, dish detergent, paper towels, toilet paper, toothpaste, canned chicken, spaghetti sauce, canned vegetables, macaroni & cheese (box mixes), mashed potato flakes, peanut butter, rice, grape jelly, spaghetti /pasta, cereals that are kid friendly. Persons who are in need in the Marlboro/Morganville area or are members of the parish, call the conference hotline at 732-946-4487, ext. 240 and leave a message for the intake coordinator. All calls are kept confidential.

St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro, will host a Christmas concert, “Let There Be Peace on Earth” Dec. 14 at 7 p.m. Featured artists include Candace Lynn Matthews, soprano; David Smolokoff, tenor; Anthime Miller, cello, with Andrew DePrisco at the organ, and Joe Moffit, pianist. The children’s choir from the parish will also perform. Seating with prepaid tickets only. Tickets are $35 and available at the parish office. Tickets will not be available online or by mail. Proceeds will benefit the parish center’s newly renovated gymnasium floor.

St. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown, will mark the Advent season with a Traditional Latin Mass -- Rorate Caeli Mass -- in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary Dec. 14 at 6 a.m. in the church. Father Michael Wallack, pastor, will be celebrant.  The votive Mass is to reflect on the coming of Christ at Christmas.

St. Joseph Parish, Millstone Township, will show the film “Joyeux Noel” (“Merry Christmas”). Part 1 will be shown Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 6 at 10 a.m. Part 2 will be shown Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. and Dec. 13 at 10 a.m. The film is a fictionalized account of a true life story. The film is rated PG-13 for scenes of war, violence and brief adult themes. To sign-up, email [email protected] on the parish website at https://www.stjosephmillstone.org/adult-program or on the sheet located in the back of the church.

St. Joseph Parish, Millstone Township, will host a “Service of Compline-Night Prayer” Dec. 19 at 7 p.m. in the church. Compline is an ancient office with which monastic communities end t heir day of prayer. Compline is a service of quietness and reflection.

St. Leo the Great Adult and Children’s Choir, Lincroft, will present an Advent/Christmas concert, “Joy to the World” Dec. 15 at 4 p.m. in the church. To sign up, visit www.stleothegreat.com/christmas-concert.

St. Leo the Great Parish Separated and Divorced Ministry, Lincroft, is hosting a “Surviving the Holidays” seminar Dec. 11 from 7 to 8:30 p.m.  for those who are separated and divorced. For more information, email [email protected].

St. Leo the Great Social Concerns Ministry, Lincroft, will hold its Advent Giving Tree beginning Nov. 23. The tree will be in the church foyer where “Angel Tags” for $25 gift cards from various stores will be placed on the tree. The donated gift cards will be distributed to Mother of Mercy Parish, Asbury Park, the VNA, Emmanuel Cancer and the Community Outreach Group in Middletown. Gift tags can be taken from the tree or an online donation may be made for the gift card purchases at https://www.stleothegreat.com/advent-giving. 

St. Mark’s Spanish Ministry, Sea Girt, will host a “Grand Celebration in honor of Our Lady of Guadalupe” Dec. 11. The event will start at 6 p.m. and include recitation of the Rosary and “Little Angels” Dance; Mariachis at 8 p.m.; refreshments at 9 p.m., followed by the Flor de Pina Guadalupada Dance and “Aztec Dance,” and Our Lady of Guadalupe play. Mass will be celebrated in Spanish at 11 p.m. At midnight there will be a Serenades to Our Lady of Guadalupe. For details, call 732-449-6364, ext. 104 or 105.

St. Mary Parish, Colts Neck, will hold its 17th annual Memory Tree tradition. For a $10 donation, people commemorate a deceased or living loved one. The lights will shine all during the Christmas season, until the Feast of the Epiphany. On Dec. 14, there will be a  lighting ceremony after the 4 p.m. Mass. Everyone is invited to attend. A Memory Book, with all the honorees, will be displayed in the gathering space (narthex). There are "Memory Cards" available in the parish office. The deadline is Dec. 2. For more information, call the office at 732-780-2666 or visit https://bit.ly/2kllkmC

St. Michael Parish, West End, will hold a Day of Prayer Dec. 10 from 9 am. to 3 p.m. Presenter is Sister of St. Joseph Gerrie Muller, who serves on the staff of San Alfonso Retreat House, West End. Fee is $45-$55. To register, call 732-222-2731, ext. 140 or sanalfonsoretreats.org. The parish will hold an Advent talk, “The Certitude of Hope in Christ” Dec. 11 at 7 p.m. in the Upper Church. Presenter will be Redemptorist Father Anthony Michalik who is stationed in San Alfonso Retreat House, Long Branch. There is no admission fee and light refreshments will be served in the lower church following the talk.

St. Michael Parish, West End, will host a Christmas concert with Father Alphonse Stephenson and the Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea Dec. 22 at 1:30 p.m. in the upper church. Tickets go on sale in mid-October and may be purchased online at stmichaelnj.com. In mid-November, the tickets may be purchased in-person in the church vestibule after some of the weekend Masses. Tickets may be paid for with cash or check. The pricing levels are $55, $50, $45 and $40.  Tickets will not be available for purchase in the parish business office or by phone. Visit stmichaelnj.com for more information.

St. Rose of Lima Parish St. Vincent de Paul Society, Freehold, is holding the annual Angel Giving Tree to assist in brightening the Christmas season for persons in need. Tags with suggested gift items are on the trees found at the main entrances of the church and chapel. Once gifts are purchased, they should be wrapped with the tag attached and returned to the parish by Dec. 15. For more information, call 732-303-1793 or 732-462-0859, ext. 0

St. Rose Parish, Belmar, is holding a Giving Tree in which parishioners can purchase Christmas gifts for families in need. Gift tags are available and gifts must be returned to the church Dec. 14-15. Gifts should be placed in unsealed decorative bags or unwrapped boxes and attach the tags securely. Gift cards may be placed in the collection basket during Mass. Gift cards should be placed in sealed envelope marked for “The Giving Tree.” For more information, call 732-795-0816.The parish will hold a Children’s Christmas Pageant Dec. 15 at 1:30 p.m. and Dec. 16 at 5 p.m. Live animals will be included. Participants are invited to bring the image of the Infant Jesus from their Nativity Creche to be blessed after either pageant.

St. Rose Parish Monday Evening Scripture Class will offer “Ephesians: Discover Your Inheritance” starting Nov. 18. Classes meet weekly on Monday evenings from 6:45 to 8:45 p.m. in the parish center, Pasko Room. The sessions will explore the themes that are still relevant in today’s Christian culture and society – the nature of marriage, the purpose and role of the Church, the preeminence of grace in God’s plan and the reality of spiritual welfare. For more information, call 732-280-5658 or email [email protected].

St. Rose Parish Thomas Merton Discussion Group, Belmar, meets online on the first Tuesday of each month from 7 to 8 p.m. The group is currently reflecting on The Road to Joy: Letters to New and Old Friends, Volume 2, of Merton’s published correspondence. To join the group email [email protected] or call 732-681-6238.

St. Thomas More Parish, Manalapan, will hold a Festival of Lessons and Carols Dec. 8 at 3 p.m. The parish adult choir, handbell choir and Christmas youth choir will lead participants through Scripture readings and music. The service will be followed by a tree-lighting ceremony and a light reception in Petri Hall. Performers include, Colton Martin, organist; Patricia Kinnucane, flute, and Anna Gugliotta, conductor.

St. Veronica Food Pantry, Howell, needs the following items: mayonnaise, coffee, tea, Spam, juice, pasta, rice, jelly, canned fruit, pasta sauce, soap, macaroni and cheese, canned chicken, peanut butter, shelf-stable milk, cereal and oatmeal, paper towels, toilet tissue, laundry detergent, dish detergent, snacks and drinks. Pantry hours are Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon. For more information on food availability and pick up, email [email protected].

St. William the Abbot Parish, Howell, will hold “Christmas Around the World” Dec. 14. The event will highlight Christmas traditions and will feature decorated booths representing different countries where attendees can experience unique crafts, foods and learn about traditions from around the globe.

St. William the Abbot Parish, Howell, accepts donations of used eye glasses to benefit the Joe Mazzarella Eye Glass Donation Program. Donations may be placed in the receptacle located in the parish hall. All eye glasses are donated to the Eyes for Needy Program.

Trenton Diocesan Federation and the Father McGivney Council, Knights of Columbus are participating in the “Send a Hero Home for the Holidays.” Contributions are being collected to transport an enlisted member of the Army, Navy, Marines, Air Force and Coast Guard Home. Make checks payable to KOC Council 6392 and mail to P.O. Box 322, Lincroft, N.J. 07738.

Ocean County

Assumption Council, Knights of Columbus, New Egypt, will hold a blood drive Dec. 11 from 2 to 7 p.m. in the Brad Zipp Parish Hall of Assumption Chapel, 76 Evergreen Rd. To schedule an appointment, call 609-618-4313 or 800-RED-CROSS. To schedule online visit redcrossblood.org and enter New in the subject line.

Epiphany Parish, Brick, will hold an Advent Retreat, “God Is With Us – ‘Emmanuel” Dec. 14 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Registration deadline is Dec. 9. A light breakfast will be provided. For information, call 732-458-0220.

Ken’s Kitchen is a free social lunch program sponsored by St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, which welcomes people of all faiths from Barnegat and surrounding communities. Ken’s Kitchen operates each Thursday from 9 to 11:30 a.m. in the parish center for coffee, followed by informative speakers and entertainment. Soup and lunch will be served from 10:30-11:30 a.m. Meals are available for take-out after 11:30. Free bread and baked goods are distributed as well. Parish nurses are available twice per month for blood pressure screenings. For more information, call 609-618-9381.

St. Barnabas Parish Food Pantry, Bayville, is in need of the following donations: crackers, cereal, instant potatoes, baked beans, pasta sauce, tea, coffee, juice, toilet tissue. Persons in need of food should call 732-269-2208, ext. 107.

St. Dominic Parish, Brick, will hold a Winter Festival Dec. 13 at 5:30 p.m. on the grounds between the church and rectory. The schedule includes a Living Nativity presented by the religious education students and carols sung by the parish choirs at 6; a visit from Santa at 6:45; “Build a Smores Station” at 7, and a gingerbread house contest from 8 to 8:30. Rain date is Dec. 20. The parish will hold a New Year’s Eve Dinner and Dance party from 7:30 p.m. to 3 a.m. in the parish center. Fee is $120 per adult and $45 per person  under 21 years old. Music, dancing, hors d’ourves, five course dinner buffet, Viennese table with homemade pastries and desserts. Cash bar is available. Tickets are available at the rectory office or call Father Marian Kokorzycki at 732-737-1205.

St. Francis of Assisi Food Pantry, Long Beach Island, is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. The pantry provides a wide range of food items, personal hygiene products and cleaning supplies. Specialty options such as dairy free, gluten free and vegan products, along with baby formula and diapers are available. Spanish speaking staff are available. To stay updated on the pantry’s services, text “PANTRY” to 833-511-0760.

St. Francis Community Center, Long Beach Island, will hold a Christmas concert featuring Dakota & Lee will be held Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. Music from the tenor/soprano duo will perform sacred and classical Christmas music. Seating is first-come, first served. Tickets  are $35 for general admission and are available in the Community Center or at https://shorturl.at/NQpBp. The community center will hold a “Holly Jolly Workshop” Dec. 17 from 3 to 5 p.m. Participants will have an opportunity to create their own floral arrangement or order a bouquet to pick-up. Donations for the food bank will be accepted. Fee is $45 per person and space is limited.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Long Beach Island, offers a Fellowship Bible Study every Thursday at 9:30 a.m. in the Sr. Kate Room of the church. The next meeting is Dec. 19 from 9:30-10:30 a.m. For information, call 609-713-2622.

St. John Parish, Food Pantry, Lakehurst, needs the following items: sugar-free jams, jellies, pancake syrup as well as regular canned fruit, canned coffee, tea bags, pasta sauce, pasta, hearty canned soups, canned white tuna and chicken, cereal, oatmeal. Food can be dropped in the blue bin in the church hall anytime the church is open. Foods that are frozen or need refrigeration should not be placed in the bin; perishables may be brought to the pantry Monday mornings from 9 to 11 a.m.

St. John Parish Respect Life Committee, Lakehurst, is hosting 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 an evening retreat, “Quiet by the Fireside,” will be held Dec. 12 from 5 to 8 p.m. The evening will provide an opportunity to contemplate Jesus, the Incarnate Word, through reflection in a quiet and prayerful environment. A Christmas sing-a-long and refreshments will follow. A free will donation will be accepted. To register, call 732-892-8494.

St. Joseph Parish, Toms River, is holding Giving Trees to help brighten the holidays for less fortunate. The trees will be in the church’s gathering space and adorned with gift tags indicating needed gifts. All gifts must be returned to the church unwrapped no later than Dec. 15. Attach the tag to the gift. The parish will hold its annual Christmas concert Dec. 14 at 7 p.m.

St. Luke Parish, Toms River, will host Advent Lessons & Carols Dec. 11 from 5 to 6 p.m. The parish will hold a Christmas Family Movie Night “The Star” Dec. 13 from 6 to 8 p.m. Snacks will be provided.

St. Luke Parish St. Vincent dePaul Conference, Toms River, has a food pantry that distributes food to those in need Monday and Friday from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Those in need of food should bring current identification and proof of residence. Persons wishing to donate food for the food pantry may place items in the wooden box in the church narthex. Needed food donations include coffee, tea, canned fruit, laundry detergent, toothpaste, paper towels and toilet tissue.

St. Mary Academy, Manahawkin, will hold its Annual Ugly Sweater Run Dec. 14 There is a 9 a.m. one-mile fun run for children and a 5K for kids and adults. Participants are asked to wear their ugliest sweater. To register, visit https:www.raceforum.com/UGLY.

St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, will hold its annual Christmas Choir Concert Dec. 15 from 5 to 7 p.m. in St. Mary of the Pines Church, Manahawkin. Other highlights will include live Nativity animals, a children’s pageant, singing and the lighting of the bell tower. The parish, along with the Knights of Columbus, will host “Christmas In A Box” meals-to-go program for all who are in need of a Christmas dinner. This will take place Dec. 23f from 11 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the parish center. To register, call 732-779-4064.

St. Mary Women’s Ministry, Barnegat, will hold an Advent Day of Prayer Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. in the parish center. Guest speakers will be two sisters from the Franciscan Sisters of the Renewal. Donation is $25 and includes a hot lunch. Coffee, tea and water will be provided. Make checks payable to St. Mary’s and mail to Peggy Kinahan, 33 Fifth St., Barnegat, N.J. 08005.

St. Maximilian Kolbe Altar-Rosary Society, Toms River, will hold a Christmas Giving Tree in which new, unwrapped and not bagged gifts will be collected for Ocean’s Harbor House Transitional Living Program for vulnerable youths. Tags will be on the tree starting Nov. 23. Gifts may be placed in the cart near the tree; gift cards can be placed in the secured box. Gifts will not be accepted after Dec. 15.

St. Peter Parish, Point Pleasant Beach, will host a Christmas concert featuring Father Alphonse Stephenson and The Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea Dec. 13 at 7 p.m. in the church. Doors open at 6 p.m. Tickets are $50 per person and are available in the parish office. There is no reserved seating. For information, call 732-892-0049.

St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, is holding its annual Christmas Giving Tree Campaign. Donations of gifts will be given to Madonna House, Neptune, which serves women and their children by providing clothing, toys, formula, diapers and life necessities to needy families. Donations will also be given to The Downey Side Adoption Agency which focuses on adoptions for a distinct age group of children 2-17, who are physically and emotionally challenged. The tree will be at the main entrance of the church with tags designated for either girls or boys and their age. Gifts may be brought to the parish office Monday through Thursday from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. Gift cards and checks are also welcome. Make checks payable to Madonna House and mail them to the parish office. Do not wrap gifts. Last day for providing gifts is Dec. 8. For questions, call 732-793-7291 or email [email protected].

St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will hold a 24-part Bible study on Matthew’s Gospel. Afternoon sessions beginning Sept. 22 and will be held from 3 to 5 p.m. Morning sessions will begin Sept. 25 and will be held from 9:15 to 11:15 a.m. Fee is $25 and includes workbook and online access. Make checks payable to Sacred Heart Church. For more information, call 732-903-7551 or email [email protected].

St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will celebrate the Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe Dec. 12 with a Mass and healing prayers at noon in the church. Father Kevin Ashe will be celebrant. Prayer teams and music from the N.J. Campus Encounter School of Ministry graduates and students will participate. For more information, contact [email protected].

St. Pio of Pietrelcina Holy Name Society, Lavallette, will hold a Breakfast with Santa Dec. 15 from 9 a.m. to noon in the church hall. Activities and photos with Santa will be available. Fee is $15 for adualts; $10 for children five and older; children under 4 will be admitted free. Proceeds will benefit Downeyside Adoption. Advanced tickets may be purchased at Downeyside.org. foro more informaoitn, email [email protected] or call 732-359-8434. The parish will hold a New Year’s Eve Gala Dec. 31 from 9 p.m. to 12:30 a.m. in the parish hall. Doors open at 8 p.m. Fee is $25 per person and includes dessert, coffee, soda, water, party favors. Music and dancing will be available. Make checks payable to St. Pio Holy Name Society. For information, call 908-672-6710; 732-995-0044 or 732-259-3577.

St. Pius X Parish, Forked River, will hold a Blue Christmas Breakfast Dec. 15 following the 10 a.m. Mass in the parish hall. The breakfast will be served by Cub Scout Pack 156. Tickets are $10; children under age 10 eat free. Tickets are required and may be purchased in the religious education office.

St. Teresa of Calcutta Altar-Rosary and St. Francis Society, Bradley Beach, is sponsoring a Christmas Giving Trees to assist persons in need. Ornaments are available at both worship sites. Participants are asked to leave the gift at the entrance of the church where they obtained the ornament. In Ascension Church, unwrapped toy items will be given to local children attending area schools, In St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, wrapped clothing or gift items will be given to nursing home residents. All donations must be received by Dec. 16.

St. Theresa Food Pantry, Little Egg Harbor, is open Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. Needed items for October include: Spaghettios and Beefaroni; Hamburger Helper-type packaged products, rice; side dishes; cake mix and frosting; children’s cereal; small jars of mayonnaise; ketchup; mustard; peanut butter; pancake syrup; pancake mix; apple juice; toilet tissue; pasta and canned soup. For questions, call 609-296-1345.

St. Theresa Parish, Little Egg Harbor, is sponsoring its annual Christmas Sharing Program that provides toys for needy children ages one to 13 in the community. The parish collaborates with area churches. Gift tags with the age and gender of the child will be placed in baskets at the doors of the church beginning the weekend of Nov. 23-24. Toys or gift cards may be purchased and then return to St. Theresa’s the weekend of Dec. 14-15. Toys must be brand new and unwrapped. Monetary donations are also accepted to purchase coats, shoes, clothes. The parish will hold a Christmas Cookie Walk Dec. 21 and 22 to benefit the parish youth ministry. Donations of Christmas cookies are needed for the bake sale to be held Dec. 21-22 after all Masses. To donate, complete form found in the parish bulletin or by visiting  www.sttheresa450.org/cookie-walk. Donations should be placed in an air-tight bag or container and brought to the parish office on Dec. 19 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. or Dec. 20 from 8:30 a.m. to 4 p.m. Be sure to label container so that it can be returned to the owner.

St. Theresa Parish, Little Egg Harbor, has added a second day and time for praying the Rosary of the Seven Sorrows and Divine Mercy Chaplet. In addition to Tuesdays, the prayers will be held on Fridays at 3 p.m.

Visitation Parish Music Ministry, Brick, will hold a Children’s Christmas Pageant Dec. 15 at 2 p.m. in the church. For more information, call 732-477-7059, ext. 219.

All parishes and schools are welcome to submit their events to
[email protected].