In Local News as of Nov. 4, 2024

November 4, 2024 at 9:00 a.m.

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

Burlington County

Burlington Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a blood drive Nov. 7 from 2 to 7 p.m. in the council hall, 366 E. Broad St., Burlington. To schedule an appointment, call 800-733-2767 or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter KOC Burlington.

Corpus Christi Parish, Willingboro, will hold a seven-week series on The Joyful Mysteries of the Rosary beginning Nov. 3. Sessions will meet for seven Sundays at 12:30 p.m. in Bogdan Hall. A Thanksgiving Food Drive to benefit Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton’s Emergency Services, will take place Nov. 9-10. Perishable and non-perishable food items will be collected. Most needed items include peanut butter; canned vegetables, meat/fish, fruits soups; pasta, pasta sauce; spices; rice, dried beans; grain products; cereal; biscuit and baking mixes; crackers; tortillas; olive/canola oil; coffee/tea; desserts; powdered milk and snacks for children. Thanksgiving food items can include turkeys, boxed stuffing; cranberry sauce; instant potatoes; gravy (jars or cans); canned yams or sweet potatoes; cream of mushroom soup; krispy friend onions. An Advent Spirituality Day Dec. 7. The day will begin with Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament at 10 a.m. and continue until Benediction at 3:45 p.m. Confessions will be heard at 2 p.m. The regular Saturday Vigil Mass will be celebrated at 4 p.m. For information, call 609-877-5322.

Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle, will hold a Holy Hour with Eucharistic Adoration Nov. 13 from 7 to 8 p.m. The intentions will be in memory of deceased loved ones of parishioners.

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 Fatima Council, Knights of Columbus, Mount Laurel, will hold its next Family Movie Night Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. in St. John Neumann Parish, Hall, Mount Laurel. No admission fee but a free-will offering will be accepted.

Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish, Maple Shade, will hold a Christmas bazaar Nov. 16 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendors, crafts, baked goods, gifts, photos with Santa will be featured. The parish 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.

Sacred Heart Parish, Riverton, will hold a Christmas bazaar Nov. 29 from 4 to 8 p.m. and Nov. 30 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the gym. Crafts, food, jewelry, home décor, pictures with Santa are among the highlights. Free admission. For information, visit shcriverton.org or call 856-829-0090, ext. 118.

St. Charles Borromeo Outreach Ministry, Cinnaminson, will host a dinner and show featuring Abe Speller Jazz Trio Nov 9 from 6 to 9 p.m. in McCusker Hall. Tickets are $50 per person. For information, call 609-576-0518 or email [email protected].

St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will host its annual Tree Lighting Dec. 8 at 5 p.m. following the Christmas concert. The evening will feature live Nativity characters and animals, Christmas carols, craft tables and refreshments. The Knights are currently accepting reservations and donations for the Christmas Dedication Trees. All proceeds benefit the council’s charitable activities and St. Mary of the Lakes School. Donors may honor a loved one by purchasing a tree. The Knights will decorate the trees with lights and a laminated card with the name of the person being honored. To reserve a tree, fill out the form found in the parish bulletin or visit medfordknights.org/xmas-copy. Forms are due Nov. 29. Forms may be brought with payment to the parish office. For questions call 856-912-1301.

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 a community Thanksgiving Dinner on Thanksgiving Day Nov. 28 at 11:30 a.m. in St. Mary of the Lakes School. A traditional Thanksgiving Day dinner and fellowship will be featured. To make a reservation, call 609-678-3196. Reservations will be confirmed by phone.

St. Mary of the Lakes Parish Respect Life Ministry, Medford, will hold a presentation on Pro-Life Awareness and Chastity designed for students in grades 7 through 12 and their parents Nov. 11 and 12 from 7 to 8 p.m. in the church. The first evening will focus on pro-life while the second evening will focus on chastity. For questions, call 609-654-8208 or email [email protected].

St. Mary of the Lakes School, Medford, will hold a Christmas bazaar Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendors wishing to participate must complete and return a vendor application with registration fee by Nov. 15 to the main office. Further information and registration can be found at smlschool.org/Christmas-bazaar-1.

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

Incarnation-St. James Parish, Ewing, will hold a pasta dinner Nov. 9 at 5:30 p.m. in the auditorium on the campus of Incarnation Church, 1545 Pennington Ave., Ewing. Tickets are $15 for adults; $10 for children ages three to 12. Children under age three will be admitted free. Tickets may be purchased by Nov. 1 by using the QR code found in the parish bulletin. For more information, visit [email protected].

Our Lady of Good Counsel Social Services Outreach, West Trenton, is holding a Thanksgiving food drive through Nov 11 to benefit Catholic Charities, Diocese of Trenton and Mount Carmel Guild. In addition to collecting small and medium-sized frozen turkeys, needed items include: canned goods (cranberry sauce, turkey gravy, yams, fruit, vegetables – corn, carrots, green beans, peas; packaged goods (instant mashed potatoes or rice, macaroni and cheese, stuffing, tea, coffee, cocoa, cake mix and icing, non—frozen pie crust and filling, brownie mix. No expired, dented or rusted cans or opened or expired boxes or bags. No glass bottles or cellophane bags. Donations may be left on the tables near the elevator in the church hall. Frozen turkeys should be placed in the designated freezer adjacent to the kitchen area.

Our Lady of Sorrows Altar-Rosary Society, Hamilton, will host a Christmas Wreath Sale. The 12” balsam wreath is decorated with pine cones, red decorative balls and a ribbon. All wreaths are available either with or without a stand. To place an order, complete  form found in the parish bulletin and submit with a check made payable to the Rosary Altar Society and return it in the collection basket or the parish office in an envelope marked: “Christmas Wreath Order” no later than Dec. 2. Wreaths will be available for pickup on Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. at the OLS campus only.   Wreaths cost $24 without a stand and $28 with a stand. Proceeds will benefit the parish school. For questions, call 609-586-6771 or 609-213-6278.

Our Lady of Sorrows School, Hamilton, will hold a Thanksgiving dessert drive fundraiser. The school is partnering with A&M and a variety of cakes, pies, cheesecakes, rolls and donuts will be available for purchase. Purchasers should take a flier with them which may be obtained at the school office.

St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Hightstown, will host “An Introduction to the Gospels – Four Portraits of Jesus.” Sessions will meet on Tuesdays, Nov. 12, 19, 26 and Dec. 3. Moring sessions will meet in the Community Room from 9:45-11:15 a.m. Evening sessions will meet in the school building, Classroom 23 (second floor) on Thursdays, Nov. 14, 21, Dec. 5 and 12 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Presenter is Martin Arsenault. Session one will present a brief overview of the culture and context in which Jesus preached and the Gospels were written. Session one will continue with an introduction to the unique portrait of Jesus  that is presented in Mark’s Gospel. Session two will introduce the themes and characteristics of the Gospel of Matthew. Session three will focus on the unique portrait of Jesus in Luke’s Gospel. Session four will focus on John’s Gospel and the signs Jesus performed.

St. Gregory the Great Academy, Hamilton Square, will hold a fall craft show Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, will offer “The Bible and the Church Fathers,” a 12-session video study series from the St. Paul Center. The series explores the teachings of the early Church Fathers and their relevance to the understanding of Scripture and Tradition. Sessions will begin Sept. 12 and run every Thursday through Dec. 5. Morning sessions will be held at 9:30 a.m. and evening sessions at 7 p.m. No meeting on Thanksgiving Day, Nov. 28. To register, visit the parish website at https://stgregorythegreatchurch.org/

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, Hamilton, will hold a parish singalong with Frank Bresnen Nov. 8 at 7 p.m. in the All-Purpose Room. Future singalong dates are Dec. 7.

St. Raphael-Holy Angels Parish, Hamilton, will host a Holiday Craft and Vendor Fair Nov. 30 from 3 to 7 p.m. and Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parish center, 3500 South Broad St. Admission is free and food and gifts will be featured. The parish will host “A Journey Through Advent” Dec. 5 at 7 p.m. in the parish center. Presenter will be Deacon Gregory Costa. Donations of non-perishable food items will be collected to support the parish food pantry.

Monmouth County

Catholic Women of Zion Chapter 1 will hold a retreat for women Nov. 16 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in St. William the Abbot Church, Howell. The day will begin with Mass celebrated by Father Thomas Maher, pastor, then continue in the parish hall. Speaker will be Sister Patricia Wormann who will present "We are all broken. That's how the light gets in." Admission is $25 and is payable at the door. Boxed lunch is included. Registration is required. Register online at cwoz.org.

Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will host an in-person retreat, “God Bless America: More Things Are Wrought By Prayer” will be held Nov. 5 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. The retreat will focus on praying for the holiness and peace of the nation and all nations. Mass will be celebrated and lunch will be provided. Fee is $25. An in-person retreat day will be held Nov. 6 from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. The day begins and ends with brief prayer together. Fee is $10 or $40 with spiritual direction. Participants should bring their lunch. A presentation on “Elizabeth of the Trinity: A Praise of Glory” will be presented Nov. 12 from 9:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. Participants will explore the spirituality of St. Elizabeth of the Trinity using some of her major spiritual writings. Donation is $35 and includes Mass and lunch. Fee for online participants is $25. A retreat, “Dorothy Day – Big Things Come in Small Packages” will be held Nov. 20 from 9:30 a.m. to noon. Participants will reflect on a sampling of Dorothy Day’s essays. Fee is $20. 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 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, Freehold, is hosting a Christmas Memorial Tree event giving families of St. Rose of Lima Parish, Freehold, the opportunity to honor a family member or loved one. Trees must be pre-ordered by Nov. 20. Trees will be provided with lights but families may decorate with ornaments or tree toppers. Trees are $150 and payment must be made by check. Make checks payable to Columbian Club of Freehold and send to Columbian Club, 70 East Main St., Freehold, N.J. 07728. Note Christmas Memorial Tree on front of envelope. On Dec. 11 at 7 p.m., the Christmas Memorial Trees will be dedicated. For information, call 908-313-1312.

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, Neptune, will hold a Traditional Latin Mass with Gregorian Chant Nov. 17 at 3 p.m. For questions, email [email protected].

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.

Marlboro Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a Veterans Day breakfast Nov. 10 from 9:30 to 11:30 a.m. in St. Gabriel Church, Marlboro. Any branch of the military – Army, Navy, Marines, Coast Guard and Merchant Marines – are invited to attend the free breakfast. Gold Star parents, widows and widowers are also welcome to attend.

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, Fair Haven, will hold a Potluck Friendsgiving Nov. 16 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the parish hall, following the 4 :30 p.m. teen Mass. Visit the parish website to register and indicate contribution. Teens are invited to participate in the Mass and to sit at the Teen Friendsgiving table.

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.

Our Lady of Fatima Parish Keyport, will hold a fall gala Nov. 9 starting at 6 p.m. in Town & Country Inn, Keyport. Tickets are $100 per person and are on sale after all Masses and at the parish office. For more information on the gala or sponsorship opportunities in the gala sponsor book, call 732-977-7392 or 732-979-0091.

Our Lady of Fatima Bereavement Ministry, Keyport, will begin a new session Nov. 18 at 6 p.m. for more information, call 732-977-9392.

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 Book Club, Atlantic Highlands, will gather Nov. 6 at 1 p.m. The club is reading “Forty Dreams of St. John Bosco.” New members are welcome. To purchase online, visit svdpusa.org. enter the church by the side door closest to Center Ave. The parish 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 Columbiettes will hold its second annual Christmas Fair Nov. 17 from 9 a.m. to 4 p.m. in St. Thomas More Petri Hall, 186 Gordons Corner Rd., Manalapan. Vendors are welcome to join at $50 per table to receive a vendor contract, email [email protected] or [email protected].

Society of St. Cecilia at the Oratory Church of St. Anthony of Padua, Red Bank, will present internationally acclaimed classical pianist Vyacheslav Gryaznov Nov. 10 at 3:30 p.m. in the church. Gryaznov will perform Tchaikovsky (selections from Nutcracker Suite ballet) and his own arrangements of Russian and western classical music. A freewill offering will be collected. For information, call 732-747-0813 or stanthonysofredbank.net.

St. Anselm Parish, Tinton Falls, will host a Jazz Night Nov. 9 at 6:30 p.m. Tickets are $25 per person and hors d’oeuvres will be served. For more information, email [email protected]. Tickets are available in the parish office.

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. Denis Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference Food Pantry, Manasquan, is accepting donations of the following items: tissues, toilet tissue, tea bags, small oil (24 fl oz), small cans of fruit, fruit juice and boxes of sugar. Items may be left in the shopping cart in the gathering space in the main church or in the plastic box at the beach chapel. The pantry is located in Msgr. O’Connor Hall. The pantry operates on Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. for questions or special food needs, call 732-223-1383.

St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro, will host a Journey Through Advent Scripture Study on the following Thursday mornings from 10 to 11:30 a.m. or in the evenings from 7 to 8:30 p.m. The dates are: Oct. 10, Oct. 17, Nov. 14 and Nov. 21. Materials will be provided. For questions, email [email protected] or call 732-946-4487, ext. 227. The parish will prepare Thanksgiving dinners for people in need. Options are to donate food items  -- frozen turkeys, hams, stuffing, gravy, canned yams, corn, vegetables, potatoes, fruit, instant potatoes, jars of tomato sauce, pasta, cranberry, juice or juice boxes and non-perishable desserts. Also accepted will be $25 Shop Rite gift cards; checks for any amount to purchase gift cards. Make check payable to St. Gabriel Parish and put Thanksgiving dinners in memo line. Also, make a donation online at https://www.osvhub.com/st-gabriel-s-catholic-church/giving/funds/neighbors-in-need-collection. Gift cards and monetary donations may be placed in the wood boxes in the church. Food and turkeys may be brought to the church hall on Nov. 9, 10, 16, 17, 23 and 24. For information, call 732-946-4487, ext. 223 or 227.

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. John the Baptist Parish, Allentown, will hold the eighth annual Joe-Bob Gruca Memorial Blood Drive Dec. 7 from 10 a.m. to 3 p.m. to schedule an appointment to donate blood visit redcross.org/blood or call 609-902-1972.

The Ladies of St. Joseph Parish, Millstone, will hold a bake sale Nov. 3 after both Masses in the parish hall. For questions, email [email protected]. The Ladies will hold a Wine/Paint Class with artist Allison Mains Nov. 15 from 6:30 to 9 p.m. in the parish hall. Participants will be creating/painting a wooden Nutcracker sign. Instructions will be provided on how to draw and paint the nutcracker. Cost is $45 which includes all art supplies and light refreshments. Contact [email protected] by Nov. 4th.

St. Leo the Great School PTA, Lincroft, will hold a Christmas Bazaar Dec. 7 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m.

St. Leo the Great Social Concerns Ministry, Lincroft, will hold a winter coat drive Nov. 9 from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the AAC. Donations of new or gently used, clean coats, hoodies, gloves and hats will be accepted. Items are needed for all ages and sizes. The ministry will hold a frozen turkey drive on Nov. 24. Donations may be brought to the school/church entrance between 7 a.m.  and 12:30 p.m.

St. Mark Parish, Sea Girt, is holding a coat drive through Nov. 24. Donations of new or gently used clean coats, jackets and winter clothing/accessories for children, teens and young adults may be placed in the church basement area next to the elevator. Smaller sizes (S,M,L) are preferred. For information, call 732-449-6364, ext. 104.

St. Mark Social Concerns Program, Sea Girt, is holding a Thanksgiving Food Drive to benefit The Mercy Center in Asbury Park through Nov. 18. Suggested donations include frozen turkeys and turkey breasts (no more than 15 pounds); frozen pies, butter and refrigerated tube biscuits; instant mashed potatoes; Stovetop stuffing; canned yams, corn, green beans, cranberry sauce, turkey gravy as well as coffee, sugar packets, shelf stable milk and tins of cookies. Non-perishable items may be placed in the bins at the front and side entrances to the church. Frozen items may be placed in the upright freezer in the church basement kitchen.

St. Mary Parish, Middletown, will hold an Outdoor Christmas Market Dec. 1 from 9 a.m. to 4:30 p.m. in the school parking lot. Registration fee is $65 and deadline to register is Nov. 8. For more information, call 732-671-0071, ext. 244.

St. Michael Parish, West End, will offer a Fall Bible Study on Joshua Nov. 7 to Dec. 12. Sessions will meet on Thursdays from 9 to 10:30 a.m. or in the evening from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the lower church. Participants should bring a Bible. To reserve a seat, call 732-222-3164. 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 High School and St. Rose Grammar School, Belmar, will hold a fall clothing drive Nov. 9 from 8 to 10 a.m. Items may be dropped off at the red brick parking lot. Items that will be accepted include clothing, shoes, accessories, soft household goods, small toys, stuffed animals and blankets. Sports equipment, board games, pots and pans, electronics, glass, large toys, VCR tapes and baby equipment will not be accepted. All money raised will benefit both schools. For information, email [email protected].

St. Rose High School PTA, Belmar, will hold an Autumn Social Event Nov. 15 from 6 to 9 p.m. in Beach Haus, Belmar. The event is open to current school parents and alumni.

St. Rose Parish, Belmar, offers free weekly English classes to the community for adults ages 18 and older on Thursday evenings in the parish center from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. All who wish to learn to speak, read or write English are welcome. For more information or to volunteer to tutor, email [email protected].

St. Rose Parish Knit Wits, Belmar, meets on the second Tuesday of the month. The next meeting will be Nov. 12 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the parish center. The group makes baby blankets for the babies being baptized in St. Rose Church; shawls for the nursing homes; hats and scarves for the homeless, as well as hats for cancer patients and blankets for Mary’s Place. The group is open to people who enjoy knitting and crocheting. For more information, call 732-581-5652.

St. Rose Parish Legion of Mary, Belmar, will hold a Movie Night Nov. 8 from 6 to 8:30 p.m. during which The Chosen will be presented. Episodes 3 and 4 will be shown and include discussion, pizza and snacks. For more information, call 908-309-2807 or email Michelle@[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 Christmas Tea Nov. 16 from noon to 4 p.m. in Petri Hall. The event will feature a five-course tea menu for $45. Tickets must be purchased in advance by Nov. 6. Proceeds will benefit the parish’s St. Vincent de Paul conference. For reservation ns, call 732-688-3104.

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. Veronica Parish Social Concerns Committee, Howell, is hosting a Thanksgiving Food Collection through Nov. 24. Groceries most needed are: boxed or canned potatoes, canned yams/sweet potatoes, canned corn/green beans, stuffing/corn bread mix, non-perishable canned ham, gravy, macaroni and cheese, cranberry or applesauce, canned fruit, fried onions, oil, boxed milk, coffee, cookies/juice as well as $25 gift cards for turkeys and non-perishables. Anyone in need of food should contact the parish office at 732-363-4200 or email the pantry at [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 School of Religion, Howell, will host a Veterans Day breakfast Nov. 10 after all Masses

Vincent T. Lombardi Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a parish breakfast Nov. 10 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in St. Mary School cafeteria, Middletown. Admission is free but donations will be collected for disaster relief to assist areas affected by recent Hurricanes Helene and Milton. Donations may be made via Venmo: @KOC6552.

Ocean County

Annunciation Council, Knights of Columbus, Barnegat, will hold a flea market Nov. 9 from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parish center. Vendors and food for purchase will be available. For questions, call 609-913-7022 or 914-830-5955.

Donovan Catholic High School, Toms River, will host a Veterans Day Celebration featuring a concert with the Toms River Municipal Concert Band Nov. 10 from 1:30-3:30 p.m. in the school gymnasium. The event is for family and friends who are current and past military members.

Donovan Catholic High School Performing Arts, Toms River, will  present “The Addams Family” Nov. 21-23 at 7 p.m. and Nov. 24 at 2 p.m. General admission is $17. Tickets can be purchased at donovancatholic.org or at the school during school hours. For questions, call 732-349-8801, ext. 2434 or email [email protected]. All proceeds will benefit the Performing Arts Program.

Epiphany Parish, Brick, will hold a 10-week Evening Bible Study on “Revelation: The Kingdom Yet to Come,” part of the Great Adventure Bible series from Ascension Press. The study consists of written commentary, a workbook, discussion questions and DVD teachings. It will begin Sept. 9 in the All Purpose Room (which is attached to the Church) and then continue for 10 weeks until Jan. 13. The group meets Monday evenings from 7:15 to 9 p.m. Registration forms are available in the parish office or by contacting 732-718- 3630 or [email protected]. There is a $30 fee which covers the cost of the workbook.

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. Entertainment for the Nov. 7 gathering is Grandma’s Cupboard and a representative from Caption Cell, a no-cost phone service. For more information, call 609-618-9381.

Maris Stella Retreat Center, Harvey Cedars, will hold a Pre-Advent Day of Reflection, “Advent – Day by Day” Nov. 23 from 10 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. Presenter is JoLynn Krempecki, Maris Stella volunteer and Seton Associate. A freewill offering will be collected. Coffee will be available but participants should bring a bag lunch. Limited overnight accommodations are available on Nov. 22 and/or Nov. 23 at an additional cost.  Make checks payable to Sisters of Charity. For more information, call 609-494-1182 or email [email protected]. To register visit marisstella.org.

Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish, Lakewood, will hold a Vaccine Clinic Dec. 3 from 5 to 8 p.m. in Holy Family Community Center, 1139 County Line Rd. The parish, working in collaboration with RWJ Barnabas Health, will offer flu and Covid-19 vaccines. No appointment is needed; Spanish speaking personnel will be available. For questions, call 732-363-0139.

Rev. Gebhard Braungart Council, Knights of Columbus and Ladies Auxiliary, Lavallette, is holding a winter coat drive through Nov. 15. Clean winter coats that are in good condition will be accepted. For information, call 973-670-6474 or 732-793-9351.

St. Barnabas Parish, Bayville, is hosting a Thanksgiving Food Drive for people in need. Donations of canned yams, canned green beans, stuffing, turkey gravy, corn bread muffin mix, canned cranberry sauce and brownie mix are being collected through Nov. 17. Donations of frozen turkeys will be taken Nov. 25 from 6 to 9 p.m. and Nov. 26 from 9 a.m. to noon. Families in need of food should call 732-269-2208, ext. 107.

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 Thanksgiving Food Gathering Nov. 2 and 3. Donations may be dropped off at the white van outside of the church before all Masses. Items may also be donated to the food pantry. Needed items include turkey breasts/hams, potatoes/yams, cranberry sauce, stuffing, canned vegetables, jello/pudding, gravy, pancake mix/syrup, cake mix/icing, soup, detergent, soap, paper products.

St. Dominic Parish, Brick, will hold a Winter Festival Dec. 13 at 5:30 p.m. Live entertainment, a living Nativity, a Christmas village of craft vendors will be featured. The parish choirs will sing Christmas carols and there will be a hot chocolate and cider bar.

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 Community Center, Long Beach Island, will hold its annual Beefsteak Dinner Dec. 6 in the gym. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. and dinner will be served at 6:30. Tickets are $50 and are available at the front desk or online at https://shorturl.at/W618D. 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.

St. Francis of Assisi Parish, Long Beach Island, will hold a winter craft fair Nov. 23 and Nov. 24 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. in the community center gym. Admission is $2. The parish’s annual Beefsteak Dinner will be held Dec. 6 in the Community Center gym. Doors open at 4:30 p.m. Food pantry donations can be dropped off at the check-in table. Tickets can be purchased online at stfrancisparishlbi.org or at the front desk.

St. Isidore the Farmer Parish Loaves and Fishes Food Pantry, New Egypt, is holding a Thanksgiving food drive. Needed items include turkeys (whole or breast), instant boxed potatoes, gravy, canned yams, French-style green beans, cream of mushroom soup, olives and pickles. Collection boxes are available at both worship sites as well as the parish office. For information, call 609-361-2086.

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. Joseph Parish, Toms River, is accepting monetary donations for the Annual Thanksgiving Turkey Fund for needy families. Donations may be dropped off at the parish office. Persons wishing to donate a frozen turkey may do so at the food pantry during hours of operation, Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 10 a.m. to 4 p.m. and Tuesday and Thursday from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m.

St. Joseph Parish Nursing Ministry, Toms River, will hold free blood pressure screenings after all weekend Masses Nov. 9-10 in the Prep Room.

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 a silent retreat will be offered Nov. 8-10. The retreat offers time for reflection, Mass and exposition of the Blessed Sacrament. Massage therapy will be available. Arrival time on Friday is between 5-6 p.m. and departure time on Sunday is 1 p.m. Sister Brunilda is the presenter. Cost is $425. An Advent Day of Reflection will take place Dec. 6 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mass and lunch are included. Presenter is Janice Santanello. Cost is $65 per person. 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. 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 Parish, Barnegat, holds support meetings for divorced and separated persons on the second and fourth Wednesdays of the month at 7 p.m. in the rectory office in Barnegat. The meetings are run by facilitators. For more information, call 609-290-4650.

St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, will hold a retreat, “Thirty-Three Days to Morning Glory,” beginning Nov. 9. The 33-day personal retreat will focus on the Consecration of the Blessed Mother. The retreat will conclude with a bilingual Mass for the Feast of Our lady of Guadalupe Dec. 12 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary of the Pines Church, Manahawkin. Books, at $13, are available for purchase in the rectory. A concert featuring the Orchestra of St. Peter by the Sea and Father Alphonse Stephenson will take place Dec. 20 at 7 p.m. in St. Mary of the Pines. Doors open at 6. Tickets are $36 per person. Seats are assigned by row and cannot be changed once assigned. To order tickets send payment to Beth Carroll, 140 Spring Lake Blvd., Waretown, N.J. 08758. Make checks payable to St. Mary Church and include a self-addressed, stamped envelope. For information, call 609-242-0668.

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 Council, Knights of Columbus, Toms River, will host “The Jersey Four” Tribute to Frankie Valli & The Four Seasons Nov. 15 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in St. Maximilian Kolbe parish hall. Doors open at 4:45 p.m. Tickets are $30 and are on sale after all Sunday Masses through Nov. 10. Proceeds will benefit the K of C “Send A Hero Home” program to pay for the travel expenses for junior military members (E3 and under) stationed in New Jersey who could not otherwise afford to visit their families during their holiday leave.

St Monica Parish, Jackson, will host a seminar “Spams, Scams and Fraud: Let’s Not Be A Victim,” Nov. 17 at 1 p.m. in the church. Presenter Laura Reeves, owner of LJR Financial will focus on identifying common scams while safeguarding personal information. Issues to be addressed include: How to detect a scam; Examples of Spam; Safeguarding personal information; ways to avoid being hacked; identity theft response plan.

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, 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 host Season 4 of “The Chosen” Oct. 24, Oct. 31, Nov. 7 and Nov. 14 from 9 to 10:30 a.m. in the church hall, 103 Washington Ave. Light refreshments, group discussions and faith sharing will be included. To register, email [email protected]

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.

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