In Local News as of June 15, 2024

June 10, 2024 at 8:00 a.m.


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

Burlington County

1st Way Life of Burlington Pregnancy Center, 500 High St., Burlington, needs donations of the following items: Enfamil formula, baby cereal, stage 1 baby food, diapers sizes 5, 6 and 7, size 5t/6t pull-ups, baby towels, burp cloths, receiving blankets, 0-3 month sleepers. Donations can be dropped off during regular business hours Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Wednesday, 4-6 p.m.

Burlington Council, Knights of Columbus, and St. Paul School, Burlington, will host a trip to see the Trenton Thunder vs. West Virginia Black Bears game at the Trenton Thunder Ball Park, 1 Thunder Rd., Trenton, July 6 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. Make checks payable to St. Paul PTA. For information, email [email protected].

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Council, Knights of Columbus, Maple Shade, will hold a spaghetti dinner June 21 form 5 to 7 p.m. in Nolan Hall. Cost is $15 per person; $5 for children ages 8-12, and children seven and under are admitted free. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Kids ages seven and under

St. John Neumann Council, Knights of Columbus, Mount Laurel, will hold its annual golf tournament June 21 at the Rancocas Golf Club, Willingboro. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m. with shotgun start at 8. Golf registration fee is $115 and includes refreshments, greens fees, cart, gifts for participants, lunch, prizes and beverages. Respond by June 14. Contact 856-630-1792 or email [email protected].

St. John Neumann Parish Music Ministry, Mount Laurel, will host a “Broadway Memories” concert June 23 at 3 p.m. in the parish hall, 560 Walton Ave. Light refreshments to follow. A free-will offering will be taken up for Good Counsel Homes, Riverside.

St. Katharine Drexel Food Pantry, Burlington, provides food and hygiene products to Burlington Township and Burlington City residents who meet income specifications and/or receive public assistance, unemployment benefits or disability benefits. In addition registered parishioners experiencing food shortages are encourage to contact the food pantry for assistance. The pantry is open every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. except for Thanksgiving week when the pantry is open on Monday. Persons wishing to help can call 609-386-3650.

St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Burlington, hosts a “Catholic Traditions Q&A” every first Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m., where participants can learn more about the Catholic faith. In-person sessions are held in the rectory, 223 E. Union St. and online which is accessible on the parish Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/stkatsburlington.

St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will host an American Red Cross blood drive June 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  in Emmaus Center, 40 Jackson Rd. Appointments are preferred. Call 800-REDCROSS or visit redcrossblood.org and use code 6520.

St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will hold a Charity Golf Tournament June 24 at the Medford Lakes Country Club. Registration begins at 9:30 to noon with golf starting at noon. Dinner will begin at 5:15 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the St. Vincent de Paul conference in St. Mary of the Lakes Parish; Family Promise of Burlington County and First Way of Burlington County. More information may be found in the parish bulletin by clicking here .

Mercer County

Ancient Order of Hibernians will host the William Hogan Memorial Blood Drive June 18 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the hall located at 2419 Kuser Rd., Hamilton. To schedule an appointment contact email [email protected]/609-915-8996 or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter AOHHamilton.

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. Anthony of Padua Parish, Hightstown, will host the relics of St. Pio of Pietrelcina June 15-16. On June 15, veneration will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with Mass at 4 p.m. The following day, veneration will be from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The visit of the relics is sponsored by the Saint Pio Foundation. For additional information, call 609-448-0141 or email [email protected].

St. James Parish, Pennington, will serve as the site for an All Inclusive Ministry Mass June 22 at 5 p.m. in the church, 115 E. Delaware Ave.

St. Paul Parish, Princeton, will celebrate the 25th anniversary of Padre Pio’s canonization June 27 by welcoming the St. Pio Foundation for a day of veneration of the relics of Padre Pio. At the conclusion of the 8:15 a.m. Mass, the relics will be available in the sanctuary of the church for public veneration. All are invited to attend. An evening Mass will conclude the day.

St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish Altar-Rosary Society, Hamilton, will host a country line dancing event June 29. Tickets are $7 if purchased in advance or $10 at the door. For information, call 609-306-8670.

Monmouth County

Court St. Elizabeth, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, is sponsoring its annual baby shower for local community charities. Donations of the following baby items are needed: diapers, baby wipes, infant clothes, baby shampoo, lotion and bath items. Collection baskets will be available at the entrances of both St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, Avon, and Ascension Church, Bradley Beach.

Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will host a seven-day Silent Centering Prayer Retreat Aug. 4 starting at 7 p.m. and ending Aug. 11 at 10 a.m. The schedule provides many communal Centering Prayer periods which are usually preceded by 20 minutes of Lectio Divina. Fee is $650 with a $100 non-refundable deposit with registration. 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.

Jesus the Lord Council, Knights of Columbus, Keyport, will host a “Welcome to Summer” dance June 15 from 7 to 11 p.m. in the cafeteria of St. Joseph Parish. Admission is $25 for adults; $20 for senior citizens; $20 for children ages 13-17; $75 for a family up to five members. No fee for children ages 12 and under. Food dance, games will be featured.

Madonna House, a service for women and children who live at or below the poverty level in Neptune, is holding a back-to-school collections during the month of July through Aug. 4. Socks and underwear are needed items. Madonna House is located at 1401 Seventh Ave., Neptune City.

Maris Stella Retreat Center, Harvey Cedars, will host a retreat June 16-22. Each day of the retreat, themed, “Images of God in Sea, Sky and Sand” presenter, Sister Ellen Dauwer, will focus on an element of creation: water, wind, sun, clouds, sand, through poetry and photography. For registration information, call 609-494-1182 or [email protected].

Monsignor Thomas U. Reilly Council, Knights of Columbus, will host a free “Coffee and Donuts” event June 23 following the 10:30 a.m. Mass in St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, Avon.

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 Fatima Altar-Rosary Society, Keyport, will hold a clothing drive June 29. Items may be dropped off at the gym entrance from 8 to 10 a.m. at the gym entrance. Donors are asked to use trash-size bags for packing.

San Alfonso Retreat House, West End, will host a young adult retreat, “Hungers of the Heart” July 19-21. Presenter is Cristina D’Averso-Collins. Cost is $300 and scholarships are available. For questions, email [email protected].

Society of St. Cecilia and the Oratory Church of St. Anthony of Padua, Red Bank, will hold an organ recital June 23 at 3:30 p.m. in St. Anthony of Padua Church. The works of Bach, Couperin, Gigout, Mendelssohn, Verne and others will be performed. A freewill offering will be accepted. For more information, call 732-747-0813 or stanthonysofredbank.net.

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. Benedict Food Pantry, Holmdel, 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. Benedict Parish and School, Holmdel, will host a “Dine For A Cause” June 24 at 6 p.m. in Belford Bistro, 870 Main St., Belford. Only 60 tickets will be sold. Tickets are $100 per person for a five-course meal. For reservations, email [email protected].

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. 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.

St. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown, will host a memorial blood drive June 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the church at 1282 Yardville-Allentown Rd. The blood drive will be conducted by the American Red Cross. To schedule, log on to: redcross.org/blood or call 609-902-1972.

St. Leo the Great Bereavement Ministry, Lincroft, will hold a six-week guided grief series for adults suffering the loss of a loved one. Sessions will be held June 5, 12, 19, July 3, 10 at 11 a.m. and repeated at 6 p.m. The morning session on June 10 will be at 1 p.m. The sessions provide a safe space for participants to share their grief experiences with others. Registration is required. To register, visit https://stleothegreat.com/bereavement-support. To speak with a bereavement minister, email [email protected] or call 732-747-5466, Option 2.

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. Mary Parish, Middletown, will sponsor a “Born of the Spirit Weekend Retreat” June 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. and June 15 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The retreat will feature worship, teachings and prayer, creating an atmosphere perfect for the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. For registration information, click here.

St. Mary Parish, Middletown, will host a “Building a Culture of Life in NJ” day June 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in St. Mary, Mother of God Church, 19 Cherry Tree Farm Rd. Topics include: “New Jersey after Roe;” “Graciously Answering Pro-Abortion Rhetoric;” “Post Abortion Healing/Reaching Hispanics;” “Church Activation Projects;” “Attacks on Pregnancy Resource Centers;” “Lawsuits Against the State of NJ over Abortion Bill;” “Legal Status of Joan Bell and Other Pro-Life Heroes.” Confirmed speakers include: Holly Wright, LIFENET trainer; Christine Flaherty, LIFENET director; Teresa Martinez, founder, Rama de Maria; Shawn Hyland, director of Advocacy, NJ Family Policy Center; Barbara and Bill Eames, Working Together for NJ Coalition; Chris Bell, from Good Counsel Homes. Pre-registration is required. Visit lifeneteducation.org/life. For more information, call 973-497-4520 or email [email protected].

St. Michael Parish, West End, will celebrate a Mass for the first responders of the city of Long Branch, including police, fire fighters, first aid, June 23 at 10 a.m.

St. Rose of Lima Parish, Freehold, will host its annual carnival June 25-29. The carnival will run form 6 to 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and from 6 to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Games, rides food, live entertainment and discount ride nights.

St. Rose of Lima School, Freehold, has partnered with New Legacy Books and is collecting used books. Books may be placed in the donation bin in the car rider parking lot (South St.) at any time. The school will receive a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the books. Books that will be accepted must be in good, readable condition that have an ISBN barcode label on the book cover. Books that won’t be accepted are those without the ISBN barcode on the cover, encyclopedias, library references, magazines or water-damaged books. For questions, email [email protected].

St. Veronica Parish, Howell, will host an eight-week Scripture study, “Genesis – Seven Life-Changing Encounter with the God of New Beginnings. Meetings dates will be June 25, July 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug. 6, 13 and 20 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 for the book. To register, email [email protected] or call 732-363-4200, ext. 247. Deadline to register is June 10.

Ocean County

Maris Stella Retreat Center, Harvey Cedars, will host a silent directed/private retreat July 22-28. Presenter Sister of St. Joseph Eileen McGovern will serve as spiritual director. Time for private prayer and Mass will be included. For more information or to register, visit marisstella.org or call 609-494-1182 or [email protected].

Sacred Heart Parish, Bay Head, and St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will host a summer Bible study from June 25-July 30. Sessions will be held on Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. in Sacred Heart Church. Light refreshments will be served. To register, email [email protected].

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. Francis of Assisi Community Center Food Pantry, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, will host a Summer Solstice Craft Show June 15 from 9:30a.m. to 3 p.m.

St. Francis of Assisi Community Center, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, hosts blood pressure screenings on the second Tuesday of each month from 11 to 11:30 a.m. in the senior lounge. The screenings are conducted by the LBI Health Department. Call 609-494-8861, ext. 111.

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 Parish, Brant Beach, will host its “Annual Garden Party By The Sea” fashion show June 19 from 2 to 4:30 p.m.  at the Barret Island Estate. Tickets go on sale at the parish office front desk May 1. Cost is $60.

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 Parish, Toms River, will host the relics of St. Padre Pio June 20. Veneration will be held from noon to 6 p.m. The Conversation, “Encountering Saint Pio” will be presented by Julia Calandra at 6 p.m. Mass will follow. For information, call 732-349-0018, ext. 2223 or email [email protected].

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 host a sub sale after all Masses June 15-16. Pre-orders can be made at the back of the church. Choices are Italian or turkey/Provolone and cost $10 each. A limited number of subs will also be available for sale after Masses. For information, call 732-814-4501.

The Women of St. Monica, Jackson, is hosting a “Salt for Blessing” fundraiser/evangelization opportunity. Salt shakers will be labeled with person’s parish name and attached on every bottle is a scroll that explains the history, Biblical references and uses. For 100 bottles, cost is $5 per bottle; 200 bottles, cost is $4.75 per bottle, and 300 bottles, cost is $459 per bottle. Once bottles are purchased they can be blessed. For more information, call 732-829-5299.

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




Related Stories

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

Burlington County

1st Way Life of Burlington Pregnancy Center, 500 High St., Burlington, needs donations of the following items: Enfamil formula, baby cereal, stage 1 baby food, diapers sizes 5, 6 and 7, size 5t/6t pull-ups, baby towels, burp cloths, receiving blankets, 0-3 month sleepers. Donations can be dropped off during regular business hours Monday-Thursday, 10 a.m.-2 p.m. and Wednesday, 4-6 p.m.

Burlington Council, Knights of Columbus, and St. Paul School, Burlington, will host a trip to see the Trenton Thunder vs. West Virginia Black Bears game at the Trenton Thunder Ball Park, 1 Thunder Rd., Trenton, July 6 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $10. Make checks payable to St. Paul PTA. For information, email [email protected].

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Council, Knights of Columbus, Maple Shade, will hold a spaghetti dinner June 21 form 5 to 7 p.m. in Nolan Hall. Cost is $15 per person; $5 for children ages 8-12, and children seven and under are admitted free. Tickets may be purchased at the door. Kids ages seven and under

St. John Neumann Council, Knights of Columbus, Mount Laurel, will hold its annual golf tournament June 21 at the Rancocas Golf Club, Willingboro. Registration begins at 7:15 a.m. with shotgun start at 8. Golf registration fee is $115 and includes refreshments, greens fees, cart, gifts for participants, lunch, prizes and beverages. Respond by June 14. Contact 856-630-1792 or email [email protected].

St. John Neumann Parish Music Ministry, Mount Laurel, will host a “Broadway Memories” concert June 23 at 3 p.m. in the parish hall, 560 Walton Ave. Light refreshments to follow. A free-will offering will be taken up for Good Counsel Homes, Riverside.

St. Katharine Drexel Food Pantry, Burlington, provides food and hygiene products to Burlington Township and Burlington City residents who meet income specifications and/or receive public assistance, unemployment benefits or disability benefits. In addition registered parishioners experiencing food shortages are encourage to contact the food pantry for assistance. The pantry is open every Wednesday from 9:30 to 11 a.m. except for Thanksgiving week when the pantry is open on Monday. Persons wishing to help can call 609-386-3650.

St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Burlington, hosts a “Catholic Traditions Q&A” every first Wednesday from 7 to 8 p.m., where participants can learn more about the Catholic faith. In-person sessions are held in the rectory, 223 E. Union St. and online which is accessible on the parish Facebook page at https://www.facebook.com/stkatsburlington.

St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will host an American Red Cross blood drive June 15 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m.  in Emmaus Center, 40 Jackson Rd. Appointments are preferred. Call 800-REDCROSS or visit redcrossblood.org and use code 6520.

St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will hold a Charity Golf Tournament June 24 at the Medford Lakes Country Club. Registration begins at 9:30 to noon with golf starting at noon. Dinner will begin at 5:15 p.m. Proceeds will benefit the St. Vincent de Paul conference in St. Mary of the Lakes Parish; Family Promise of Burlington County and First Way of Burlington County. More information may be found in the parish bulletin by clicking here .

Mercer County

Ancient Order of Hibernians will host the William Hogan Memorial Blood Drive June 18 from 2 to 7 p.m. at the hall located at 2419 Kuser Rd., Hamilton. To schedule an appointment contact email [email protected]/609-915-8996 or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter AOHHamilton.

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. Anthony of Padua Parish, Hightstown, will host the relics of St. Pio of Pietrelcina June 15-16. On June 15, veneration will be held from 9 a.m. to 6 p.m. with Mass at 4 p.m. The following day, veneration will be from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The visit of the relics is sponsored by the Saint Pio Foundation. For additional information, call 609-448-0141 or email [email protected].

St. James Parish, Pennington, will serve as the site for an All Inclusive Ministry Mass June 22 at 5 p.m. in the church, 115 E. Delaware Ave.

St. Paul Parish, Princeton, will celebrate the 25th anniversary of Padre Pio’s canonization June 27 by welcoming the St. Pio Foundation for a day of veneration of the relics of Padre Pio. At the conclusion of the 8:15 a.m. Mass, the relics will be available in the sanctuary of the church for public veneration. All are invited to attend. An evening Mass will conclude the day.

St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish Altar-Rosary Society, Hamilton, will host a country line dancing event June 29. Tickets are $7 if purchased in advance or $10 at the door. For information, call 609-306-8670.

Monmouth County

Court St. Elizabeth, Catholic Daughters of the Americas, is sponsoring its annual baby shower for local community charities. Donations of the following baby items are needed: diapers, baby wipes, infant clothes, baby shampoo, lotion and bath items. Collection baskets will be available at the entrances of both St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, Avon, and Ascension Church, Bradley Beach.

Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will host a seven-day Silent Centering Prayer Retreat Aug. 4 starting at 7 p.m. and ending Aug. 11 at 10 a.m. The schedule provides many communal Centering Prayer periods which are usually preceded by 20 minutes of Lectio Divina. Fee is $650 with a $100 non-refundable deposit with registration. 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.

Jesus the Lord Council, Knights of Columbus, Keyport, will host a “Welcome to Summer” dance June 15 from 7 to 11 p.m. in the cafeteria of St. Joseph Parish. Admission is $25 for adults; $20 for senior citizens; $20 for children ages 13-17; $75 for a family up to five members. No fee for children ages 12 and under. Food dance, games will be featured.

Madonna House, a service for women and children who live at or below the poverty level in Neptune, is holding a back-to-school collections during the month of July through Aug. 4. Socks and underwear are needed items. Madonna House is located at 1401 Seventh Ave., Neptune City.

Maris Stella Retreat Center, Harvey Cedars, will host a retreat June 16-22. Each day of the retreat, themed, “Images of God in Sea, Sky and Sand” presenter, Sister Ellen Dauwer, will focus on an element of creation: water, wind, sun, clouds, sand, through poetry and photography. For registration information, call 609-494-1182 or [email protected].

Monsignor Thomas U. Reilly Council, Knights of Columbus, will host a free “Coffee and Donuts” event June 23 following the 10:30 a.m. Mass in St. Elizabeth of Hungary Church, Avon.

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 Fatima Altar-Rosary Society, Keyport, will hold a clothing drive June 29. Items may be dropped off at the gym entrance from 8 to 10 a.m. at the gym entrance. Donors are asked to use trash-size bags for packing.

San Alfonso Retreat House, West End, will host a young adult retreat, “Hungers of the Heart” July 19-21. Presenter is Cristina D’Averso-Collins. Cost is $300 and scholarships are available. For questions, email [email protected].

Society of St. Cecilia and the Oratory Church of St. Anthony of Padua, Red Bank, will hold an organ recital June 23 at 3:30 p.m. in St. Anthony of Padua Church. The works of Bach, Couperin, Gigout, Mendelssohn, Verne and others will be performed. A freewill offering will be accepted. For more information, call 732-747-0813 or stanthonysofredbank.net.

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. Benedict Food Pantry, Holmdel, 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. Benedict Parish and School, Holmdel, will host a “Dine For A Cause” June 24 at 6 p.m. in Belford Bistro, 870 Main St., Belford. Only 60 tickets will be sold. Tickets are $100 per person for a five-course meal. For reservations, email [email protected].

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. 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.

St. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown, will host a memorial blood drive June 22 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the church at 1282 Yardville-Allentown Rd. The blood drive will be conducted by the American Red Cross. To schedule, log on to: redcross.org/blood or call 609-902-1972.

St. Leo the Great Bereavement Ministry, Lincroft, will hold a six-week guided grief series for adults suffering the loss of a loved one. Sessions will be held June 5, 12, 19, July 3, 10 at 11 a.m. and repeated at 6 p.m. The morning session on June 10 will be at 1 p.m. The sessions provide a safe space for participants to share their grief experiences with others. Registration is required. To register, visit https://stleothegreat.com/bereavement-support. To speak with a bereavement minister, email [email protected] or call 732-747-5466, Option 2.

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. Mary Parish, Middletown, will sponsor a “Born of the Spirit Weekend Retreat” June 14 from 7 to 9 p.m. and June 15 from 9 a.m. to 8 p.m. The retreat will feature worship, teachings and prayer, creating an atmosphere perfect for the Baptism of the Holy Spirit. For registration information, click here.

St. Mary Parish, Middletown, will host a “Building a Culture of Life in NJ” day June 15 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. in St. Mary, Mother of God Church, 19 Cherry Tree Farm Rd. Topics include: “New Jersey after Roe;” “Graciously Answering Pro-Abortion Rhetoric;” “Post Abortion Healing/Reaching Hispanics;” “Church Activation Projects;” “Attacks on Pregnancy Resource Centers;” “Lawsuits Against the State of NJ over Abortion Bill;” “Legal Status of Joan Bell and Other Pro-Life Heroes.” Confirmed speakers include: Holly Wright, LIFENET trainer; Christine Flaherty, LIFENET director; Teresa Martinez, founder, Rama de Maria; Shawn Hyland, director of Advocacy, NJ Family Policy Center; Barbara and Bill Eames, Working Together for NJ Coalition; Chris Bell, from Good Counsel Homes. Pre-registration is required. Visit lifeneteducation.org/life. For more information, call 973-497-4520 or email [email protected].

St. Michael Parish, West End, will celebrate a Mass for the first responders of the city of Long Branch, including police, fire fighters, first aid, June 23 at 10 a.m.

St. Rose of Lima Parish, Freehold, will host its annual carnival June 25-29. The carnival will run form 6 to 10 p.m. on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday and from 6 to 11 p.m. on Friday and Saturday. Games, rides food, live entertainment and discount ride nights.

St. Rose of Lima School, Freehold, has partnered with New Legacy Books and is collecting used books. Books may be placed in the donation bin in the car rider parking lot (South St.) at any time. The school will receive a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the books. Books that will be accepted must be in good, readable condition that have an ISBN barcode label on the book cover. Books that won’t be accepted are those without the ISBN barcode on the cover, encyclopedias, library references, magazines or water-damaged books. For questions, email [email protected].

St. Veronica Parish, Howell, will host an eight-week Scripture study, “Genesis – Seven Life-Changing Encounter with the God of New Beginnings. Meetings dates will be June 25, July 9, 16, 23, 30, Aug. 6, 13 and 20 at 6:30 p.m. Cost is $15 for the book. To register, email [email protected] or call 732-363-4200, ext. 247. Deadline to register is June 10.

Ocean County

Maris Stella Retreat Center, Harvey Cedars, will host a silent directed/private retreat July 22-28. Presenter Sister of St. Joseph Eileen McGovern will serve as spiritual director. Time for private prayer and Mass will be included. For more information or to register, visit marisstella.org or call 609-494-1182 or [email protected].

Sacred Heart Parish, Bay Head, and St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish, Lavallette, will host a summer Bible study from June 25-July 30. Sessions will be held on Tuesday evenings at 7 p.m. in Sacred Heart Church. Light refreshments will be served. To register, email [email protected].

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. Francis of Assisi Community Center Food Pantry, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, will host a Summer Solstice Craft Show June 15 from 9:30a.m. to 3 p.m.

St. Francis of Assisi Community Center, 4700 Long Beach Blvd., Long Beach Island, hosts blood pressure screenings on the second Tuesday of each month from 11 to 11:30 a.m. in the senior lounge. The screenings are conducted by the LBI Health Department. Call 609-494-8861, ext. 111.

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 Parish, Brant Beach, will host its “Annual Garden Party By The Sea” fashion show June 19 from 2 to 4:30 p.m.  at the Barret Island Estate. Tickets go on sale at the parish office front desk May 1. Cost is $60.

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 Parish, Toms River, will host the relics of St. Padre Pio June 20. Veneration will be held from noon to 6 p.m. The Conversation, “Encountering Saint Pio” will be presented by Julia Calandra at 6 p.m. Mass will follow. For information, call 732-349-0018, ext. 2223 or email [email protected].

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 host a sub sale after all Masses June 15-16. Pre-orders can be made at the back of the church. Choices are Italian or turkey/Provolone and cost $10 each. A limited number of subs will also be available for sale after Masses. For information, call 732-814-4501.

The Women of St. Monica, Jackson, is hosting a “Salt for Blessing” fundraiser/evangelization opportunity. Salt shakers will be labeled with person’s parish name and attached on every bottle is a scroll that explains the history, Biblical references and uses. For 100 bottles, cost is $5 per bottle; 200 bottles, cost is $4.75 per bottle, and 300 bottles, cost is $459 per bottle. Once bottles are purchased they can be blessed. For more information, call 732-829-5299.

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



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