In Local News as of May 9, 2025

May 9, 2025 at 10:01 a.m.

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

Burlington County

Holy Eucharist Environmental Ministry, Tabernacle, invites people who care about creation to join the ministry. The next meeting will be held May 13 at 7 p.m. in the St. Francis of Assisi Room in the Faith Formation Center. For more information, email [email protected].

Holy Eucharist Parish, Tabernacle, holds Eucharistic Adoration every Wednesday following the 9 a.m. Mass until Benediction at 4 p.m. in the daily chapel. On May 14, Adoration will be extended until 8 p.m. for the Holy Hour that will be held from 7 to 8 p.m.

Holy Eucharist Parish Food Pantry, Tabernacle, operates by appointment only on Tuesdays and Thursdays from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. Persons in need of financial assistance or food and live in Chatsworth, Shamong, Southampton, Tabernacle or Vincentown, should call 609-268-0005 and leave their name, number and brief message on the type of assistance needed. All assistance and information provided remains confidential.

Moorestown Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold a Holy Hour May 15 at 7 p.m. in Our Lady of Good Counsel Church, Moorestown. Recitation of the Rosary and exposition of the Blessed Sacrament will be included. For questions, email: [email protected].

Our Lady of Good Counsel School, Moorestown, will hold a fashion show May 15 at 5:30 p.m. in The Merion, Cinnaminson. For tickets and more information, visit http://www.olgc.me/fashionshow.

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, Moorestown, will host a “Gathering Sunday” May 18 following the 10 a.m. Mass. For more information, email [email protected].

Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish, Hainesport, will hold a blood drive May 17 from 8 a.m. to 2 p.m. in the parish center. Sign ups will continue through May 10-11. For an appointment, call 201-658-6691 or visit redcrossblood.org and enter 08036.

Sacred Heart Parish Catholic Daughters collects baby items for First Way of Burlington County. Needed items include diapers, baby clothing, formula, blankets. Maternity clothing is also accepted. Items may be left at the side altar nearest the ramp in Sacred Heart Church.

Sacred Heart Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference Food Pantry, Mount Holly, operates Monday and Tuesday from 10 a.m. to noon and Monday and Thursday evenings from 6:30 to 8 p.m. the conference serves resident of Springfield and Mansfield Townships Mount Holly, Hainesport, Lumberton, Eastampton and Westampton. Persons in need of food or financial aid should call 609-267-9600 and leave name and phone number. Intake is handled via phone only.

Sacred Heart Church, Riverton, will serve as the site of Ensemble Sangiento In Concert May 17 at 7:30 p.m. Doors open at 7. Tickets are $20 and proceeds benefit the Artists. Children ages 12 and under are admitted free. Tickets may be purchased at circleoffriendsconcerts.org.

Sacred Heart Parish, Riverton, will host a baby shower celebrating the mothers of Good Counsel Homes May 18. Gifts of bottles, diapers, wipes, clothes of all sizes from 0 to 4T are suggested.

St. Isaac Jogues Parish, Marlton, will hold an American Red Cross Blood Drive May 13 from 2 to 7 p.m. in the parish hall. To schedule an appointment, call 800-733-2767 or visit RedCrossBlood.org and enter “St Isaac”.

St. John Neumann Altar-Rosary Society, Mount Laurel, will hold a “Stock’s Pound Cake Fundraiser” to benefit the parish. Orders from Stock’s Bakery in Philadelphia will be accepted May 10-11, 17-18 and 24-25. No orders will be accepted after May 28. Orders can be picked up June 14-15 in the parish hall. Cake choices include vanilla cake with vanilla icing or marble cake with chocolate icing. Cost is $20 per loaf. Checks should be made payable to St. John Neumann Church with “pound cake” noted in the memo line. Mail orders may be sent to St. John Neumann Church, 560 Walton Ave., Mount Laurel, N.J. 08054. For questions, call 856-236-2676.

St. Katharine Drexel Parish Food Pantry, Burlington, provides food and personal hygiene products to residents of Burlington City and Burlington Township who meet income specifications and/or receive public assistance, unemployment benefits or disability benefits. In addition, registered parishioners experiencing food shortages are encouraged to contact the 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. Currently, the pantry is not in need of volunteers but persons wishing to assist when needed, can leave a message by calling 609-386-3650.

St. Mary of the Lakes Council, Knights of Columbus, Medford, will hold a “Chip in for Charity” golf tournament to benefit the homeless, less fortunate, women in crisis and children June 16 at Medford Lakes Country Club. Proceeds will benefit Medford’s St. Vincent de Paul conference, Promise of Burlington County and 1st Way of Burlington County. Golf registration is $225 per person or $240 after April 8 and includes golf with cart, lunch, beverages on the course, hors d’oeuvres and dinner. Also included are prizes for top teams, closest to the pin, longest drive, hole-in-one car, putting contest prize and mulligan tickets. For questions about registration, donating merchandise and sponsorship opportunities, email [email protected].

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.

Mercer County 

Ewing Council, Knights of Columbus, will hold its annual Roses For Life drive the weekend of May 17-18 in Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, West Trenton. Collection buckets will be placed by the doors and lapel roses will also be available. Proceeds will benefit local organizations who work with pregnant women in difficult situations.

Hamilton Council, Knights of Columbus, collects clothing throughout the year. Donations may be placed in the two navy bins located on the parish campus. All clothing, shoes, sneakers, textiles, linens, bedding and handbags are accepted. Donations should be in decent, reusable condition and securely bagged. No toys or household items. Donations are given to low-income areas abroad and in the United States. All donations benefit St. Gregory the Great Parish, Academy, Knights of Columbus and local families/programs in need in Mercer County.

Incarnation-St. James Rosary Altar Society, Ewing, will host a “Spirituali-TEA” May 17 from 1 to 3 p.m. in the auditorium of Incarnation Church. Trinitarian Father Stanley DeBoe, parish pastor, will be the guest speaker. Participants are asked to bring a small finger food plate to share. For reservations, call 609-883-6481 or 609-883-1865.

Our Lady of Good Counsel Parish, West Trenton, will hold a “Legacy of Life Foundation Baby Bottle Drive” in support of mothers and their babies May 10-11. To donate, visit legacyoflifefoundation.org.

St. Ann Parish, Lawrenceville, holds a “Food Drive Sunday” every second Sunday of the month. The drive is an effort to increase the nonperishable food items that are donated locally in Trenton to Mount Carmel Guild and Better Community Housing. Most needed items include white and brown rice; coffee, syrup and juices; canned peas and beans; pasta and tomato sauce; oil; cereal, oatmeal and pancake mixes; boxed macaroni and cheese; shelf-able milk; canned tuna, chicken, sardines and yams; dry soup mixes; peanut butter and jelly. Paper towels, soap, toothpaste, deodorant, dish soap, laundry detergent are also needed as well as ready-to-eat items for the homeless – protein/granola bars, trail mix, dried fruits, crackers and cheese/peanut butter packs, small bottled water and juice boxes.

St. Ann Parish, Lawrenceville, is holding free “Decorative Craft Classes with Maria” for students in grades three to eight June 24, July 1, 29, Aug. 5 from 10 to 11:30 a.m. in the art room of the Faith Development Center. Classes are limited to 10 students per class. Registration forms may be found in the parish bulletin on the parish website. For more information, call 609-915-0211 or email [email protected].

St. Ann School, Lawrenceville, will hold its first annual Golf Tournament June 3 at Mercer Oaks West Course, West Windsor. Registration and breakfast begin at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8. Golf will be followed by lunch and dessert. All proceeds benefit the school PTA and students. Sponsorship opportunities are available. For questions, call 609-287-8345 or email [email protected].

St. Anthony of Padua Parish, Hightstown, will hold a study group on Pope Francis’ encyclical “Laudato Si” – “Care For Our Common Home” on the following Tuesdays: April 22, 29, May 20 and 27 from 7 to 8:30 p.m. Registration is recommended but walk-ins are welcome. To register, call 609-448-0141, ext. 25.

St. David the King Council, Knights of Columbus, Princeton Junction, will hold a Classic Car Show May 17 from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. on the campus of St. David the King Parish. Vehicles of all classes will be featured. Trophies, food and music to be included. Registration takes place from 9 to 11 a.m. and fee is $20. For information, call 917-991-3751 or 609-213-5955.

St. David the King Parish, Princeton Junction, will host a Mother’s Day Trivia Night May 10 from 5:15 to 8 p.m. Trivia will feature categories such as sports, music movies and pop culture and hosted by a professional trivia group. A buffet dinner and shared desserts will be included. No admission fee. The parish will hold a collection of diapers and baby wipes the weekend of May 10-11. Diapers sizes 4-6 are especially needed. A diaper collection box will be in the gathering space of the church before and after all Masses. Donations will be given to HomeFront

St. Gregory the Great Academy, Hamilton Square, will hold its first annual SGGA Golf Outing May 13 at Mountain View, Ewing. Registration and breakfast begins at 7 a.m. with a shotgun start at 8. Cost is $200 per golfer. Registration deadline is April 25. For information, call 856-296-1689 or [email protected].

St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, will hold a six-week Bible Study, “Into His Likeness” May 1-June 5. Morning sessions will be held at 9:30 a.m. in the E Center and in the evening at 7 p.m. in the parish center. The study will be a video series led by noted Scripture scholar Dr. Edward Sri. Cost is $20 per person. To register, forms may be found in the parish bulletin or by filling out the form at StGregorytheGreatChurch.org/Likeness. 

St. Gregory the Great Parish, Hamilton Square, will host a presentation “Pentecost: The Holy Spirit Through Scripture” May 21 at 7 p.m. Presenter will be Father Christopher Colavito, diocesan director of vocations, who will focus on the Scriptural understanding of the Holy Spirit in the lives of people. For information, call 609-331-3311.

St. Raphael-Holy Angels Food Pantry, Hamilton, is in need of the following donations: soups, macaroni and cheese, peanut butter, tuna fish, cereal, jelly, spaghetti sauce, rice, instant potatoes. To drop off food or perishable items, call 609-585-7049 ot make arrangements. The next “Reach Out” Saturday is May 10 from 9 to 11 a.m. in the parish center.

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 a diaper drive May 3-11. Size five and six diapers are needed and may be dropped off at any of the three parishes. For questions, email [email protected].

The Catholic Community of Hopewell Valley will host a presentation on The Acts of the Apostles on the following Monday evenings, May 5, 12 and 19 at 7 p.m. and on Wednesdays, May 7, 14 and 21 at 10 a.m. Sessions will be held in the Matthew/Mark Room on the campus of St. James Church. The sessions will explore the story of the early Church and invites participants to delve into how the Holy Spirit shaped the mission theology and witness of the first Christians. Deacon Dick Currie will lead the sessions. For questions, email [email protected].

Monmouth County

Francis House of Prayer, 84 Walnford Rd., Allentown, will host a showing of “The Chosen” Season One will take place on four Wednesdays, Feb. 19, March 26, April 16 and May 14 from 1 to 2:30 p.m. Two episodes will be shown per month. Prayer and discussions will be included. Fee is $65. A presentation, “Finding God – And Letting God Find Us in Literature” will be offered May 13 from 9:30 a.m. to 1 p.m. Participants will consider the role of reading and the place of literature in the lives of some of the saints and Pope Francis’ frequent references to literary texts. Time will be allotted for reflection and sharing. Presenter is Sister of St. Joseph Cecelia Cavanaugh. Fee is $35 for in-person participants and includes lunch or $30 for online participants. An in-person only Sunset Retreat, “An Evening of Prayer with Teilhard” will be held May 15 from 6:30 to 8:30 p.m. Dinner will be served at 6:30 followed by outdoor evening prayer. Fee is $25 and includes dinner. An in-person only 7-Day Silent Directed Retreat will be offered May 18 starting at 6:30 p.m. and ending May 25 at 10 a.m. Daily Mass, spiritual direction and optional centering prayer periods are included. Fee is $700 with a $100 non-refundable deposit with registration. A five-day Silent Directed Retreat will be offered June 15 starting at 6:30 p.m. to June 20 at 10 a.m.  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 Cross Academy, Rumson, will hold its third annual golf outing May 19 at Beacon Hill Country Club. For more information, visit hcarumson.org/golf.

Holy Innocents Parish, Neptune, will hold a Traditional Latin Mass with Gregorian Chant May 18 at 3 p.m.

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.

Mary Queen of the Knights Council, Knights of Columbus, will host a charity golf outing June 12 at Pebble Creek Golf Club, Colts Neck. Registration is $185 per person and includes green fees, golf carts, breakfast, lunch and refreshment cart. Sponsorship opportunities are available. Proceeds will benefit the works of the council. For information, visit knights816.org.

Mercy Center, Asbury Park, is in need of donations of canned soup; diapers size 4 and larger; baby wipes; coffee/tea; mayonnaise; mustard; ketchup, and salad dressing. Donations of clothing are no longer being collected.

Our Lady of Fatima Bereavement Ministry, Keyport, holds bereavement sessions for persons grieving the loss of a loved one on Monday at 7 p.m. in the parish center bereavement room. To attend, contact the office at 732-264-0322.

Red Bank Council, Knights of Columbus will hold a pasta dinner fundraiser to support Catholic education and honor Mother’s Day May 10 from 5:30 to 8 p.m. in the Columbus Club, 200 Fair Haven Rd., Fair Haven. Tickets are $20 for adults; $10 for children ages 9 and under, and no fee for mothers. Tickets ca be purchased by mailing a check to KOC Council 3187, c/o Jack Hayes, 218 Kemp Ave., Fair Haven, N.J. 07704 or use the QR code in the parish bulletin. For questions on ad journal sponsorships or on the dinner, call 732-320-5192 or 551-206-5706. The council raises money each year for the Father Michael J. McGivney Grant Fund. Each year grans are issued to Holy Cross Parish, Rumson; Nativity Parish, Fair Haven; Red Bank Catholic  High School and Trinity High School.

San Alfonso Retreat House, West End, will hold a presentation, “Becoming Good Soil: Growing More Deeply in the Spiritual Life” May 19 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Presenter is Father Joseph Tizio. To register online visit www.sanalfonsoretreats.org/2025-events or call 732-222-2731, ext. 139.

Selective Seconds, the Furniture Ministry of St. Rose Parish, Belmar, operates Thursday, Friday and Saturday from 11 a.m. to 5 p.m., and Sunday from noon to 4 p.m. Proceeds from the sales of the high-quality, new and gently used furniture and home décor benefit the parish St. Vincent de Paul Society which assists people in need. the stores is in need of more volunteers to help with furniture pick-up and deliveries on Mondays from 8 to 11 a.m. Volunteers are also needed to work in the store. For more information, visit www.selectivesecondsfurniture.com.

St. Agnes Thrift Shop, Atlantic Highlands, is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m.; the second and fourth Saturdays from 10 a.m.-3 p.m. Donations are also accepted during these hours. For larger donations, call (732) 291–2156

St. Anselm Parish, Wayside, will present “Dancing Through The Decades 70s, 80s, 90s” May 10 from 6:30 to 10:30 p.m. Participants are encouraged to dress the decade. For tickets, scan the QR code found in the parish bulletin.

St. Anselm Parish, Wayside, will host a presentation by the Maplewood Glee Club May 17 at 6 p.m. the club will present the show “With a Little Help from Our Friends” and features songs about friendship and support. Tickets are $40 per person and includes show and dinner. Tickets may be purchased at knights816.org.

St. Benedict Food Pantry, Holmdel, is open Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and from 4 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. Catharine-St. Margaret Rosary Prayer Group, Spring Lake, prays the Rosary on Thursday evenings at 7 p.m. in the chapel of St. Catharine Church. All are welcome to attend. For more information, call 732-449-4424, ext. 208.

St. Catharine-St. Margaret Parish, Spring Lake, will host an 11-part Bible Study on the Book of James. Sessions will be held April 23 to July 7 in St. Margaret Church from 10 to 11:30 a.m. or online at 7 p.m. The study will feature Scripture scholar Jeff Cavins. Registration fee is $50 per person. Send payment to Kathy Ramus, 1317 Curtis Ave., Point Pleasant, N.J. 08742. Make checks payable to St. Catharine Spirituality. For questions, call 914-393-2299.

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 Grandparents Guild, Manasquan, invites new members to join monthly meetings held on the third Tuesday of the month at 11 a.m. in the parish center. The meetings include discussions on the best practices of grandparenting, sharing thoughts and experiences and praying for grandchildren. For more information, call 732-223-0287.

St. Denis Parish’s St. Vincent de Paul Conference Food Pantry, Manasquan, is accepting donations of the following items: laundry detergent (50 oz or less), dish detergent, macaroni and cheese, beef stew and small cans of fruit. The pantry is located in Msgr. O’Connor Hall. The pantry operates on Tuesdays from 1 to 3 p.m. Items may also be left in the shopping cart in the gathering space of the church or in the plastic box at the beach chapel. 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. Denis Parish, Manasquan, will serve as the site of a Mother’s Memorial Mass for mothers and their families who have suffered the loss of a child of any age (before birth, stillbirth, infancy, childhood, adulthood) May 13 at 7 p.m. in St. Denis Church, Manasquan. A gathering with refreshments will follow. The Mass is sponsored by the Elizabeth Ministries of St. Denis Parish and St. Dominic Parish, Brick. For questions, contact [email protected].

St. Denis Parish, Manasquan, will mark the feast of St. Anthony of Padua with a festival June 13. The evening will include food, games and camaraderie. For more information, call 732-223-2087.

St. Denis Parish Hall, Manasquan, will host The Women’s Club of Spring Lake who will present Ceili June 7. Dance lessons will go from 4 to 5 p.m. with the Ceili running from 5 to 8 p.m. Light refreshments will be served. Cost is $20 per person and proceeds will benefit local charities. For reservations, call 201-401-4562.

St. Gabriel Parish, Marlboro, prays a Patriotic Rosary every Wednesday evening from 7:30 to 8:30 p.m. in the church hall. Prayers are offered for the Executive (president), Judicial (Supreme Court) and Legislative (Senate and House of Representatives) branches. Prayers are also offered for active U.S. Military as well as veterans and emergency personnel.

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. Joseph Council, Knights of Columbus, Keyport, will hold a Sunday Breakfast May 11 from 8 a.m. to noon. Cost is $12 for adults; $11 for seniors and kids ages 10 and under eat free. proceeds benefit various charities.

St. Joseph Parish Readers Club, Millstone Township, will meet June 12 at 7:30 p.m. The club is reading the book “The Personal Librarian” by Marie Bennett. The theme for the food will be foods of New York. For more information, email [email protected].

St. Leo the Great Athletic Association, Lincroft, will hold its annual Golf Outing May 19 at Suneagles Golf Course, Eatontown. Registration begins at 7:30 a.m., followed by breakfast from 8 to 9, and tee off at 9. Lunch will follow. Cost is $325 per person and includes greens fees, golf cart, lunch and breakfast. Mail or drop off payment to: St. Leo the Great, ATTN: Anthony Biancaniello, 550 Newman Springs Rd., Lincroft, N.J. 07738. For questions, call/text 732-921-2175 or 732-233-6321.

St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, will host, “Rhythm Church,” which uses drumming to experience prayer and community. Sessions will be held April 29, May 6, 13, 20, 27 and June 3 from 10:30 to 11:30 a.m. Registration is limited to 10 people. Sign up at https://stleothegreat.com/rhythm-church.

St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, will hold a 12-week support group for separated and divorced persons. The program begins March 6 and runs from 7 to 8:30 p.m. in the parish center meeting room. The program is led by trained and certified facilitators who are divorced and have completed the program. To register, email [email protected]. For more information, on the program, visit https://www.mylifechangecoach.com/divorceministry.

St. Leo the Great Parish, Lincroft, will hold a carnival June 9-14 each evening from 6 to 10 p.m. Bracelet Nights will be held June 10 12 and14. Pre-sale discounted tickets and bracelets may be purchased online by scanning the QR code found in the parish bulletin or at stleothegreat.com/pre-sale. For more information, visit stleothegreat.com/carnival.

St. Leo the Great Social Concerns Committee, Lincroft, will hold a Mary’s Cradle Collection May 17-18. Items for babies will be collected and donated to Birthright of 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 sizes 0 to 4T.

St. Mark Social Concerns Committee, Sea Girt, is collecting travel-size toiletry items (soap, shampoos, toothpaste, toothbrushes, combs, etc.) to be delivered to persons in need in the Asbury Park area. Containers are located at the church entrances. The committee is resuming the Frozen Meals Program to benefit the Center in Asbury Park, a volunteer-based New Jersey not-for-profit organization providing support services for people living with HIV/AIDS and their caregivers since 1992. Prospective donors can pick up food trays and lids found next to the kitchen refrigerator in Father Child’s Hall in the parish basement; fill the trays with generous portions of food; label the tray lids with the contents and date of preparation, and return the meals to the freezer compartment of the refrigerator. The meals will be delivered to The Center by parish volunteers. For questions, call 732-449-5656.

St. Michael Parish, West End, will hold a five-week Spring Bible Study on the First Book of Samuel on following Thursdays in May: 1, 8, 15, 22 and 29 in the lower church. Morning sessions will be held from 9 to 10:30 a.m. and evening sessions will be held from 7 to 8:30 p.m. To reserve a seat and study guide, call 732-222-3614. Participants should bring a Bible.

St. Michael Parish, West End, will hold “St. Michael’s by the Sea Day” June 25. The day begins with Mass in the church at 8 a.m. and followed by an outdoor snack. Bus will depart for Sandy Hook at 9 a.m. and returns approximately 2 p.m. Cost is $25 and includes lunch. The day is open to school-age children and their family. Children under 18 must be accompanied by a parent.

St. Rose High School, Belmar, will hold a Car Wash Fundraiser June 7 from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. Fee is $10 per person and proceeds will benefit the students who are traveling to Preston, W.V., to help restore homes of persons in need. Funds will be directed toward purchasing supplies. For questions, call 732-681-2858, ext. 721 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. Rose of Lima School, Freehold, has partnered with New Legacy Books and is accepting donations of used books. Donations may be left in the bin located in the car rider parking lot. The school will receive a portion of the proceeds from the sale of the books.

St. Veronica Parish, Howell, will hold a beefsteak fundraiser May 31 from 5:30 to 9:30 p.m. in the parish hall. Tickets are $40 and includes salad, pasta, French fries, beefsteak and dessert. Purchase tickets online at stveronica.com or scan QR code in parish bulletin or visit the parish office.

St. Veronica Parish, Howell, will hold a Family Dance Party June 14 from 5 to 7 p.m. in the parish hall. Food, music and refreshments will be featured. Tickets are $10 per person or $25 for a family of three or more. To register, scan the QR code in the parish bulletin or visit https://giving.parishsoft.com/App/Form/c67242d7-e4fe-4810-8839-49e4148a8e93.

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.

Ocean County

Catholic Women of Zion Chapter 2 will gather May 17 from 9 a.m. to 2 p.m. in St. Mary of the Pines Church, Manahawkin. With “Finding True Meaning and Purpose in the Many Seasons of Our Lives as Women” as the theme, the day will begin with Mass celebrated by Msgr. Kenard Tuzeneu, pastor of St. Mary Parish. Speaker will be Joanne Leichte, a retired nurse of 44 years who worked in Southern Ocean Medical Center in Outreach, the Office of Patient Experience and Human  Experience Educator and Coach for the Hackensack Meridian Health Southern Region. In 1997, she co-founded and serves as president of Interfaith Health and Support services of Southern Ocean County Inc. Admission is $25 and includes boxed lunch. Pay at the door by reservations are necessary and can be made by visiting www.cwoz.org or by calling 732-475-7113 no later than May 13.

Epiphany Parish’s Bereavement Support Group offers peer support for those grieving the death of a loved one. Six sessions are offered during which information is provided and mutual sharing and peer support is presented in a spiritual, caring and confidential setting. For more information, call 732-458-0220.

Epiphany Parish Helping Hands, Brick, operates a food pantry on Saturdays from 10 a.m. to 1 p.m. and Mondays from 10 a.m. to noon. Donations of the following are needed: meat/chicken/pork/hamburgers, pancake mix and syrup, canned pasta, brown rice, jars of pasta sauce, assorted canned beans, butter, eggs, soup, jelly, coffee, frozen vegetables, fresh fruit and vegetables, snacks, cooking oil, tea, canned tuna.

Epiphany Parish, Brick, holds a Healing Mass from September to May. Prayers and reflection begin at 6:30 p.m. followed by Mass at 7 and then Adoration and prayers of healing. The next Healing Mass will be May 16.

Epiphany Parish’s HOPE Wellness Ministry, Brick, meets every first Wednesday of the month to discuss wellness for maturing adults. The program focuses more than health practices such as diet and exercise; psychological power and spiritual strength to achieve optimal health in body, mind and spirit are included. The next meeting will be May 14 following the 9 a.m. Mass.

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.

Maris Stella Retreat House, Harvey Cedars, will offer a Silent Preached Retreat June 15-21. Presenter is Franciscan Sister Anne Amati who will address the topic, “A Journey Through the Gospels: Discovering the Heart of God in the Questions Jesus Asks.” A Preached Retreat will be offered June 22-28. Presenter will be Capuchin Father Jack Rathschmidt who will focus on the topic, “Praying and Living the Holy Year of Hope.” For registration information, visit marisstella.org.

Rev. Gebhard Braungart Council, Ladies Auxiliary, will hold an International Cuisine Buffet Dinner May 31 from 6 to 9 p.m. in St. Pio of Pietrelcina Parish Center, Lavallette. Tickets are $25 per person and includes water, soda, coffee, tea and dessert. To attend, return form found in parish bulletin with payment to Pat Carolan, 113 Kittiwake Ave., Lavallette, N.J. 08735 no later than May 19. Make checks payable to KOC Ladies Auxiliary. For additional information, call/text 908-392-1638.

Simon’s Soup Kitchen will hold its annual spring gala May 17 from 6 to 10 p.m. in Our Lady of Perpetual Help Parish Center, Seaside Heights. Tickets are $45 per person and must be purchased by May 1. Tickets include buffet dinner and dancing. For tickets, call 732-270-5941.

St. Aloysius Parish, Jackson, will hold an Icon Painting Workshop June 9-14. Open to beginners or advanced artists, the workshop will focus on the techniques of writing (painting) icons in  a clear and concrete way. During the course, participants will write the icon of the Virgin Mary holding the Child Jesus. Registration is required and space is limited. For registration information, email theodoreicons.com/Jackson.

St. Aloysius Parish Christian Book Study, Jackson, meets the first and third Tuesday of the month at 10 a.m. in the parish meeting room. The group selects books with the goal to learn more about the Catholic faith, focusing on topics such as the Trinity, the Life, Death and Resurrection of Jesus, the history of salvation before and after the Birth of Jesus, the inspired Word of God written in the Bible, the works of Jesus that led to Christianity. The next book of study will be “The Acts of the Apostles.” Based on the Bible, the book tells the story of the Christian community after the Ascension of Jesus. It’s about Peter and Paul leading from Judaism to Christianity through the inspiration of the Holy Spirit. For questions, call 862-432-9358.

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

St. Francis Food Pantry, Seaside Heights, is open on Wednesdays from 10 a.m. to noon. Donations of food may be left in the bin in the narthex of St. Pio of Pietrelcina Church, Lavallette. Donations may also be picked up by calling 732-606-3656.

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. Items needed include: canned goods: chicken, tuna, soup, beef stew, chili, SpaghettiOs, pork & beans, black beans, kidney beans, corn & peas. Needed non-perishable items: cereal, oatmeal, pasta & jarred pasta sauce, pancake mix & syrup, snacks & instant mashed potatoes. Needed hygiene products: laundry detergent, bar soap/body wash, shampoo, feminine hygiene products, toilet paper. Non-perishable food donations for the pantry can be dropped off in the designated bins at the Community Center entrance. Online monetary donations may be made through PayPal: www.stfranciscenterlbi.org/donate. To stay updated on the pantry’s services, text “PANTRY” to 833-511-0760.

St. Francis Community Center, Long Beach Island, will hold a spring vendor market May 31 from 9:30 a.m. to 3 p.m. Vendor registration is open. The market will feature, arts, crafts, décor, jewelry, food and more. Admission is $3. For information, email [email protected]. A “Garden Party By The Sea Fashion Show” is scheduled for June 18 from 2 to 4:30 p.m. at Bonnet Island Estate. Tickets will be available for purchase at the front desk or online at stfrancisparishlbi.org/fashion-show starting May 1. Tickets are $65.

St. John Parish Bereavement Support Group, Lakehurst, is available for those grieving a recent loss. For registration and details, call 732-657-6613. For information on joining the bereavement team, call 732-657-6613 or 732-657-6347.

St. John Council, Knights of Columbus, Lakehurst, will host a night at the Blue Claws June 20 starting at 6 p.m. Tickets are $40 for adults and $30 for children and includes game and two-hour buffet. For tickets, call 732-657-1110.

St. John Parish COR-Sorority for Women, Lakehurst, meets every Friday from 1 to 2:45 p.m. Topics on faith are presented and snacks are served. A Holy Hour with the Sacrament of Reconciliation begins at 3 p.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. Joseph By The Sea Retreat House, South Mantoloking, will hold a presentation, “Praying With Images of God In Sea, Sky, Earth and Wind,” will be held May 13 from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. Mass and lunch are included. Presenter is Janice Santanello. Cost is $65.

St. Joseph Parish Carpenter Shop, Toms River, is open after all Sunday Masses from 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and from 4:45 to 8 p.m. The shop is closed Mondays and is open Tuesday, Wednesday and Friday from 9:30 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. and Thursday from 9:30 a.m. to 7 p.m., and on Saturday after the Vigil Mass from 4:45 to 6:15 p.m. For information, call 732-349-0018, ext. 2248.

St. Justin the Martyr Parish, Toms River, will host a Social Sunday after all Masses June 1. Bagels, donuts, coffee and fellowship will be featured.

St. Luke Parish St. Vincent de Paul Conference, Toms River, distributes food to those in need Mondays and Fridays from 9 a.m. to 1 p.m. Food recipients must bring current identification and proof of residence. The food pantry is need of the following items: soups, meal in a can (ravioli, etc.), canned and dry beans, coffee, tea, toilet tissue, laundry detergent, soap and toothpaste. Donations may be placed in the wooden box in the narthex or by the parish office. Persons in need of financial assistance should call 732-244-3916.

St. Mary Academy, Manahawkin, will hold a clothing drive May 16 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parish center; May 17 from 10 a.m. to 5 p.m. in the parish center and from 5 to 7 p.m. in Msgr. Reinbold Hall; May 18 from 8:30 a.m. to 12:30 p.m. in the parish center, and from 8 a.m. to 1 p.m. in Msgr. Reinbold Hall. Tax receipts are available upon request. For questions, call 609-488-5432.

St. Mary Parish, Barnegat, holds Scripture sharing discussions every Tuesday at 10 a.m. in the rectory. Scripture Readings are reviewed for the upcoming Sunday. For more information, call 609-339-8969.

St. Mary Parish Barnegat, will host a seven-week Scripture Study on The Book of Revelation May 1 to June 12. Sessions will be held from 10 a.m. to noon. The study will use videos presented by Scripture scholar Jeff Cavins and participants will explore how the kingdom established by Christ in his Church is intimately connected with the kingdom of heaven, especially through the celebration of Mass. Registration takes place in the parish office in Barnegat. A second seven-week program on The Book of Revelation will take place in the fall. For more information on the program and to order the online book and videos for $6.95 or the workbook for $27.95, call 732-672-4762.

St. Maximilian Kolbe Parish, Toms River, will host its 40th anniversary dinner dance Aug. 17 from 2 to 6 p.m. tickets are $30 and include music, dinner, dancing. Tickets will be available for purchase beginning June 7. For information, call 732-914-0300.

St. Monica Parish Social Concerns Ministry, Jackson, provides nonperishable food items to local families in need. The ministry is in need of the following items: assorted canned beans, canned vegetables, tuna, soups, tomato sauce, pasta, boxed potatoes, pancake mix and syrup, cereal, coffee, tea, sugar, flour.

St. Theresa Parish Food Pantry, Little Egg Harbor, operates Monday, Wednesday and Friday from 2 to 4 p.m. For the month of April, donations of Jelly and ravioli are needed as well as Beefaroni, Hamburger Helper-type packaged items; rice side dishes, cake mixes and frosting, small jars of mayonnaise, ketchup, mustard, peanut butter, pancake syrup and mix, apple juice, pasta and canned soup.

Visitation Parish St. Vincent De Paul Society, Brick, hosts the “Blessings of Love Sandwich Project.” Every Tuesday afternoon at 5:30 p.m. in the parish hall, junior Vincentians and Mini-Vinnies gather with family, friends and neighbors to make peanut butter and jelly sandwiches for the homeless.  Persons wishing to donate items can ship to the Society at 730 Lynnwood Ave., Brick, N.J. 08723.

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