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Vibrant Parish Life Newsletter

Vibrant Parish Life Newsletter
October 2009

(The Office of Parish Life, Diocese of Trenton, promotes opportunities to form disciples of Jesus Christ and enhance the quality of parish life through evangelization, small faith-sharing groups, parish pastoral councils, and lay ministry. Contact us for fliers and brochures that are available for duplication and registration. Basic information is provided below for parish bulletin and public announcements. Thank you.

Special Announcements

  • Proclaiming Christ 2009 ONLINE National Catholic Evangelization Conference
    • Join ministry leaders from across the country for this exciting online event. Realize the importance of mission-focused parish life. Identify current models for addressing the needs of our culturally diverse communities. Appreciate the evangelizing roles of the participants and the assembly in celebration of the sacraments. Choose from 20 topical workshops and Keynote Presenters:

    • Building Dynamic Communities of Faith - Bishop John M. Smith
    • Reaching Every People and Culture - Mr. Ken Johnson-Mondragón
    • Sacraments: Powerful Signs of God's Love - Dr. Catherine Vincie, RHSM

    Dates: October 19 to 23, 2009. The conference website will be open on October 12, 2009. Discount code for Diocese of Trenton participants only: FC9-$75/person by September 30, 2009. Normal Registration: $150/person, groups of 3 or more, $95/person. Early bird registration: $125 by September 30, 2009. Register at www.proclaimingchrist2009.org. All events remain open 24/7 through November 2. Hosted by the Paulist National Catholic Evangelization Association www.pncea.org.


  • Reaching Out: Intensive Evangelization Training for Parish Staffs and Leaders (Part II)

    • How Can We Bring Young Adults into Active Parish Life? What's Working to Reach Inactive Catholics Today? How Can Each Parish Ministry Become More Evangelizing? Develop practical skills for sharing faith and the message of Jesus in everyday life and parish ministry. Presenter: John J. Boucher, Director, Office of Evangelization & Parish Development, Diocese of Trenton. Date/Time: Wednesdays, 12:30 to 3:30 p.m., at St. Joan of Arc, Marlton.

    • Nov. 4, 2009  Reaching Out to Inactive and Unchurched Catholics
    • Dec. 9, 2009  Creating Evangelizing Parish Ministries and Committees

    Registration Fee due by September 30, 2009: one participant - $50; two or three participants from the same parish - $100; additional participants from same parish - $30 each.  Fee covers books, handouts, and lunch. For registration or for more information, contact: Kathleen Golazeski at 609-406-7400 x5605 or kgolaz@dioceseoftrenton.org.


  • VIBRANT Parish Pastoral Councils

    • Explore four vital principles for more effective Parish Pastoral Councils (PPCs) fulfilling the consultative role envisioned by the church. Through experiences of prayer, learning, reflection, and small group sharing the PPC can begin or "go beyond the beginning" as a vibrant ministry in parish life. Topics included: Called to Be Servant-Leaders, The Mission that Has the PPC, What is Consultation? and Effective PPC Meetings. Speakers: Mrs. Terry A. Ginther, Director, Office of Pastoral Planning and John J. Boucher, Director, Office of Evangelization and Parish Development. Date/Time: Saturday, November 14, 2009, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at Holy Innocents Parish (School Cafeteria), Neptune, NJ. Please bring a lunch. Pre-registration fee is $5.00 per person (includes morning refreshments and noontime beverages). SPACE IS LIMITED. (Parishes with more than 5 persons coming are asked to call for group arrangements.) For more information contact: Office of Pastoral Planning, 609-406-7400 x5613, Fax: 609-406-7407, email: cmacre@dioceseoftrenton.org.

    2009 Christmas Carol Festival

  • What is a Christmas Carol Festival?

    • See: http://www.dottube.org/video/279/Christmas-Carol-Festival or http://www.dioceseoftrenton.org/spiritual/ChristmasCarolFestival.asp. To list your parish or group’s “Christmas Carol Festival” in “Vibrant Parish Life Newsletter” contact John J. Boucher at 609-406-7400 x5590, jbouch@dioceseoftrenton.org.

    Christmas Carol Festival
    Sunday, November 29, 2009, 2:00 p.m.
    Morning Star House of Prayer (Space is limited—contact ahead)
    312 Upper Ferry Road, Trenton, NJ
    Contact: Sr. Josephine Aparo, (609) 882-2766, sisterjo@comcast.net

    Christmas Carol Festival & Tree Lighting
    Early December (Date/Time: TBD)
    St. Therese Parish, Little Egg Harbor
    Contact: Bill Dwyer, 609-296-0610, bilmoe@verizon.net

    Christmas Carol Festival
    Early December (Date/Time: TBD)
    St. Catherine of Siena Parish, Seaside Heights
    Contact: Andrea Vahey, 732-473-0219, vahey@aol.com

    Christmas Carol Festival
    Early December (Date/Time: TBD)
    St. Mary Parish, Bordentown
    Contact: Earl Alger, (609) 298-7071, earlalger@comcast.net

    3rd Annual Christmas Carol Festival
    Thursday, December 3, 2009, 7:30 to 8:30 pm
    St. David the King Parish
    One New Village Rd., Princeton Junction
    Refreshments to follow in the Parish Hall
    Contact: Cindy Sosa, (609) 443-6584, cindyanne24@verizon.net.

    Christmas Carol Festival
    Saturday, December 5, 2009, 7:30 p.m.
    St. Veronica Parish, Howell
    Contact: Larry Pighini, (732) 899-7453, pghlcp@msn.com

    Christmas Carol Festival
    Sunday, December 6, 2009, 2:00 p.m.     (doors open at 1:30 p.m.)
    Parish Center of Divine Mercy Parish
    Cass & Grand Streets, Trenton
    Contact: Joan Buckley, 609-581-9242 or the Religious Education Office: (609) 393-5233 Ext. 101 or
    ReligiousEd@divinemercyoftrenton.org
    For updated information: www.divinemercyoftrenton.org

    Christmas Carol Festival
    Sunday, December 13, 2009, 6:00 to 8:00 p.m.
    St. Rose Parish Center, Belmar
    Contact: Jessica Evans, Youth Minister, (732) 539-3855, jlevans@strosebelmar.org

    Christmas Carol Festival
    Saturday, December 19, 2009, after 5:00 p.m. Mass.
    St. Benedict Catholic Church & School
    165 Bethany Road, Holmdel
    Contact: Catherine Warshaw-Garguilo, 732-264-4712, ext. 39, warshaw@stbenedictnj.org
    Updates at www.stbenedictholmdel.org.

    From the Office of Evangelization and Parish Development

  • Preserving the Fruit of Catholic Evangelization
    Share Your Faith without Losing Your Head! Intensive Training for Parish Evangelization

    • What’s really working in Catholic Evangelization? Look at the critical role of parish ministries and small Christian communities in the most successful parish evangelization efforts. Develop a practical planning process for outreach in your parish. Groundwork will be laid for future ongoing parish training in evangelization.

    Speaker: John J. Boucher, Director, Office of Evangelization & Parish Development, Diocese of Trenton.

    Date/Time: Next session October 17, 2009, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm, St. Raphael Church (Parish Center), Hamilton.

    For registration, costs, and information contact: Kathleen Golazeski at 609-406-7400 x5605 or kgolaz@dioceseoftrenton.org.

     

  • Human Formation Workshops: Develop core relationship skills for effective ministry
    • Wednesday, September 16, 2009 - Boundaries: Safeguarding Life. Boundaries are designed to hold and protect life. Honoring the boundaries of others is a matter of justice. Working with persons whose boundaries have been violated in the past provides a special challenge to the minister.

    • Wednesday, October 21, 2009 - Boundaries: Safeguarding the Life of the Minister and the Ministry.  All ministry positions are positions of power but they are also positions of vulnerability. Balancing both in the manner of Jesus requires self-knowledge and skills.

    • Saturday, November 7, 2009 - Collaboration in Ministry: The Body of Christ at Work. What is collaboration? What is its relationship to cooperation? What are the challenges and opportunities for conversion in choosing collaboration?

    • Wednesday, December 2, 2009 - Power and Powerlessness: Being Rooted in Charity. Knowing when to act, when to wait, when to surrender, when to engage, and when to let go requires a clear understanding of the use of personal power. For the minister called to act in the name of Jesus, that understanding keeps conflict creative, rather than destructive, and allows space for God's activity to flourish.

    Facilitator: Sr. Rita Woehlcke, SSJ. Sr. Rita holds masters degrees in literature and in pastoral counseling and a certificate in spiritual direction from Sacred Heart University. Times: 9:30 am to 2:00 pm at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, Lawrenceville. Cost: $20/session. Please bring a lunch. To register, contact Kathleen Golazeski, 609-406-7400 x5605 or kgolaz@dioceseoftrenton.org at least one week prior to each session.

    Offerings in the Diocese

  • NEW!
    Announcing a new blog on RespectLifeToday!
    • Visit www.respectlifetoday.com and click on the News/Blog tab or go to http://dioceseoftrenton.typepad.com/respectlifetoday and check it out today!

  • Parish Ministry for Maturing Adults: Train the Trainers
    • How can we help maturing adults (age 55-105) to explore aging as a "spiritual adventure" rather than a time of decline and diminishment? The diocesan Ministry for Maturing Adults is looking for people willing to become parish trainers to lead spiritual enrichment programs like "The 12 Keys to Spiritual Vitality;" "Well in Body, Wise in Mind, Whole in Spirit;" and "Redefining Retirement as a Spiritual Journey" as developed by the Johnson Institute, St. Louis, MO. For more information contact: Janis Bell, 609-406-7400 x5594, jbell@dioceseoftrenton.org (www.senioradultministry.com)

  • "40 Days for Life" – September 23 – November 1, 2009
    • This fall, people throughout the country are invited to take part in the "40 Days for Life" effort. We are asking people to commit to prayer and fasting for an end to abortion in America. In addition to 40 days of prayer and fasting, please consider volunteering to pray at one of the following locations:

    • American Women's Services, 651 Route 37 West, Toms River, New Jersey (between Sovereign Bank and PNC Bank). Contact Karyn Fusco at 732-714-7428, email Sandy at JerseyShoreLifeLink@live.com, or visit www.40daysforlife.com and click on Toms River.
    • Abortion facility in West Windsor on Emmons Avenue off Route 1 behind Pep Boys on Wed. and Sat. from 7:30 to 10am. Contact Tom Cahill at 215.595.7414.
    • Cherry Hill Women's Center, 502 Kings Hwy N., Cherry Hill, NJ 08034. Contact Jennifer at 856-829-3009 or Jennifer@abortionclinicvigil.com.
    • Planned Parenthood at Golden Crest Corporate Center, Route 33 & Nottingham Way, Hamilton Square, NJ (across from St. Gregory the Great Church). Contact Doreen at 609.672.3799 or dor1115@optonline.net.
    • Planned Parenthood, 69 E. Newman Springs Road, Shrewsbury, NJ 07702. Contact Mary Ellen at imarye@aol.com

    For more information, you can refer to www.40daysforlife.com.

  • St. Veronica Parish Retreats
    • St. Veronica Parish in Howell, NJ will be hosting a Women's Retreat and a Men's Retreat in October on their campus. Women's retreat: Friday, October 2, 2009, 7:30 pm to Saturday, October 3, 2009, 10:00 pm. Men's retreat: Friday, October 16, 2009, 7:30 pm to Saturday, October 17, 2009, 10:00 pm. The Retreat Leader for both retreats will be Sister Nancy Keller, a dynamic preacher and teacher and long-time leader in the Catholic Charismatic Renewal. All meals will be provided on Saturday. Registration: $25 per person. To register for either retreat please contact Elaine Tirella at jet81272@gmail.com or 609-693-9470.

  • Bereavement Ministry Training
    • The Diocese sponsors two-day workshops for the initial training of bereavement ministers. Rooted in the Order of Christian Funerals, topics covered include understanding the grief process, developing communication skills in dealing with the bereaved, and training in the facilitation of support groups. There is a minimal fee required of participants in the two-day workshop, since the training is primarily funded through the Bishop's Annual Appeal. The next training will be held at the St. Joseph Church, Beverly (Good Shepherd Parish) on October 2 to 3, 2009 8:30 am to 3:30 pm, both days. For additional information, please call 609-406-7400 x5557/5573 or email mschip@dioceseoftrenton.org.

  • Planning the Last Day of This Life...A Gift for Our Families
    • This event will focus on answering the often unasked questions regarding our thoughts and wishes on leaving this earthly life. The participants will address this significant topic in a comfortable and caring way. Presenter: Fr. Sam Sirianni, Director of the Diocese of Trenton Office of Worship and Pastor of St. Robert Bellarmine Parish, Freehold. Also available for questions: John W. Callihan, Elder Care Lawyer and Certified Elder Law Attorney. Dates/Times/Locations: Wednesday, October 7, 2009 from 1:00 to 3:30pm at St. Dominic Parish, 250 Old Squan Rd. Brick, NJ 08724, AND Wednesday, October 14, 2009 from 1:00 to 3:30pm at Our Lady of Sorrows-St. Anthony Parish, 3816 E. State St. Hamilton, NJ 08619. To register, call the Diocese of Trenton Office of Family Life at 609-406-7400 ext 5573 or email mrosid@dioceseoftrenton.org by September 25th. There is no attendance fee; however, free will offerings will be accepted.

  • Becoming a Pray-er: Mastering the Art of Scripture Prayer
    • Discover the tools to use imaginative contemplation in praying the scriptures. Enter the scriptures to grow in and respond to God's Word. (Based on the "Spiritual Exercises" of St. Ignatius of Loyola) Dates/Times: Mondays, October 12, 19 and 26, 2009, 7:30 to 9:30 pm at St. Raphael Church (all purpose room under church), 3500 South Broad Street, Hamilton, NJ. No cost, but registration is required. For more information or to register contact: Deacon Bob Tharp, 609-890-1011, rtharpsr@optimum.net or Judy Pullman at the rectory, 609-585-7049.

  • NEW!
    Loving Life Logo Contest
    • Calling All High School Students – Here's your chance to win an Apple Laptop! Here's the challenge: use your own unique artistic and creative skills to design a pro-life logo for Loving Life 2010. Most importantly, the logo should reflect your understanding of how we show respect for God's gift of life. The finalist logos will be posted on www.respectlifetoday.com, and the contest winner will be chosen by the number of votes received on the website. The winning logo will be displayed on apparel and in Diocesan promotions. The deadline for submissions is Oct. 15, 2009. Please see www.respectllifetoday.com for contest rules and complete details or call Donna Goodwin, Office of Life and Justice, at 609-406-7400 ext. 5592.

  • Caregivers' Day at Malvern Retreat House
    • Date/Time: Thursday, October 22, 2009 from 9 am to 3 pm. Workshops by eldercare attorneys, Alzheimer's organizations, in-home visiting nurses, hospice and other resource organizations. Speaker: Mary Jane Hurley Brant, MS, Certified Group Psychotherapist and Author. Mass will be celebrated by Fr. Gregory J. Hickey, Rector. $35 registration fee (Includes continental breakfast and buffet lunch). Please register in advance by calling: 610-644-0400. Visit us on the web at http://www.malvernretreat.com.

  • Certificate Program in Pastoral Care
    • This program is a complete certificate program (36 hours) to become certified in "equipping God's People for compassionate and competent care of the sick and dying". Twenty-one nursing CEU's provided by VNACJ upon program completion (VNACJ is an approved provider of continuing nursing education by the NJ State Nurses Association). Dates (2 sessions each day): Oct. 24, 2009, Dec. 5, 2009, Jan. 16, 2010, Feb. 27, 2010, Mar. 27, 2010, and Apr. 24, 2010. Classes are 8:30/9:00 am to 3:30 pm each day (boxed lunch & coffee/tea are included). It will be held at the Diocesan Pastoral Center, Route 206 South. Registration Fee (for the complete certificate program - 36 hours): $225 for first person from each parish/institution, $150 for each additional person from same parish/institution. For more information or to register, contact Deanna V. Sass, MA-Director/Office of Pastoral Care at 609-406-7400 x5589 or at dsass@dioceseoftrenton.org. Office of Pastoral Care Website: www.dioceseoftrenton.org/justice/pastoralcare.asp.

  • NEW!
    Annulment Information Evenings
    • For many people, the process of marriage annulment is very mysterious, often accompanied by considerable misinformation. In order to dispel misconceptions, the diocese sponsors Annulment Information Evenings annually in parishes within each county of the diocese. There is no formal registration. The next information evenings will be held on Tuesday, November 3, 2009, 7:00 – 9:00 pm at the Church of the Visitation in Brick, and on Monday, November 9, 2009, 7:00 to 9:00 pm at St. Ann Parish in Lawrenceville. Additional information may be obtained by emailing mschip@dioceseoftrenton.org or calling 609.406.7400 ext.5557.

  • NEW!
    FOCCUS Facilitator Training
    • The Office of Family Life is offering a FOCCUS Facilitator training workshop on Wednesday, November 4, 6:00 to 10:00 pm at St. Ann Parish in Lawrenceville. This training is offered to priests, deacons and pastoral ministers who prepare engaged couples for marriage in their parish. The registration fee is $70 per person and includes all materials. Registration is available online at www.dioceseoftrenton.org/go/foccus or by calling Donna Goodwin at 609-406-7400, x 5592. Space is limited so please register early.

  • "Catherine of Siena: A Woman for our Times"
    • She might not be as famous as her brother, actor/comedian Bill Murray, but it seems that acting has become a "habit" for Adrian Dominican Sister Nancy Murray. Sister Nancy Murray, who has made acting a career and the church her vocation will bring her one woman show "Catherine of Siena: A Woman for our Times" to St. Katharine Drexel Parish, Burlington for one night only, on Saturday, November 7 at 7:00 pm. Sister Nancy's performance at St. Katharine Drexel Parish is open to the public. Tickets to the performance at St. Katharine Drexel Parish are $10 per person or $30 per family. Seating is limited and light refreshments will be served after the performance. For tickets, contact the Parish Business office at 502 High Street, Burlington, NJ 08016. Please call 609-386-0152 or 609-386-0163.

  • A Different Kind of Spirit: Men of God Retreat
    • What are men's needs and how can the Word of God be alive and applicable in men's lives today? Speaker: Tom Edwards, Catholic Evangelist, Renewal Ministries. Dates/Times: Friday, November 13, 2009, 7:30 to 9:00 pm and Saturday, November 14, 2009, 8:00 am (Mass) to 4:00 pm at Sacred Heart Church, Riverton. For more information and to register contact Deacon Ken at 856-829-8942 or Deacon Mike at 856-786-0445.

  • NEW!
    Information Evening for Fertility Planning
    • Learn why couples who use NFP have the lowest divorce rate (less than 5 percent) and the happiest marriages. Come to the next information evening to learn much more. The next information evenings for Fertility Planning will be held Thursday, November 19, 2009, 7:00 to 9:00 pm at St. Mary of the Sakes School, Medford. Visit www.dioceseoftrenton.org/go/NFP or call Peg Hensler, Marriage Ministries and NFP Coordinator, Office of Family Life 609-406-7400 ext. 5556 for more information.

  • National Association of Pastoral Musicians – St. Cecilia Sing Program
    • The National Association of Pastoral Musicians in the Diocese of Trenton will present their St. Cecilia Sing Program, which will be a workshop on funerals and weddings. Date/Time: Friday, November 20, 2009 at 7:00 pm at St. Clare's Church in Florence. For information, please contact Thomas E. Halpin, Director, NPM/Trenton at St. Joseph's Church in Toms River, NJ at 732-349-0018 x2306.

  • NEW!
    Jornadas de Espiritualidad – en Español
    • En nuestro día de retiro aprovecharemos las oportunidades que se nos presentan diariamente para profundizar nuestra relación con Dios. En la vida hay altibajos y en cada uno existe una invitación a acercarse a Dios. ¿Te atreves hacerlo? Lugar: San Antonio de Padua 251 Franklin St., Hightstown, NJ, Noviembre 21, 2009, 2:00- 6:00 pm. Orar con las Experiencias de Nuestra Vida. Presentador: Hermana Peg Conboy, SSJ Costo: $7 por persona, cada día. Debe tener al menos 17 años de edad. Para registrarse puede comunicarse con Sandra: 609-406-7400, x 5653

  • The Liturgy After Vatican II
    • On Tuesday, December 1 and Wednesday, December 2, 2009, the National Association of Pastoral Musicians in the Diocese of Trenton is sponsoring a workshop (co-sponsored with St. Paul's Church, Princeton) entitled, "The Liturgy After Vatican II". The first evening focuses on what changed in the Liturgy with Vatican II and why. The second evening focuses on developing a liturgical spirituality. Presenter: Rita Ferrone, writer and speaker on issues of liturgy, catechesis, and church renewal. For further information about this event, please contact Ernie Adreoli at St. Paul's in Princeton, at 609-524-0507.

    Offerings from Retreat Houses

  • Wisdom Women of the Hebrew Bible and the New Testament
    • This evening invites you to look at named women figures of both the Old and New Testaments whose stories and contributions are often overlooked. Please bring your bibles. Presenter: Sr. Judith Schubert, RSM, Ph.D, a Professor of Theology at Georgian Court University. She is a scripture scholar and well known speaker. Date/Time: Tuesday, October 6, 2009, 7:00 to 9:30 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: $25. Registration required with a $10 deposit by Sept. 29th. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    Opening to the Heart of the World: Toward a Global Spirituality
    • Together, we will explore the critical understandings needed to protect the sacred, universal "web of life," and to promote prophetic witness in our interdependent, world community. In a spirit of cooperative learning, we will engage one another in examining and reflecting upon pressing global issues, in light of our values of faith, justice, peacemaking, and reverence for all of life. Presenter: Sister Mary Kay Flannery, SSJ. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Date/Time: October 3, 2009, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Donation: $40. Please bring a bag lunch. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • Women's Gathering: Opening the Doors of Our Hearts
    • As author Joyce Rupp expresses in her latest book, Opening the Door of Our Heart reveals the vast treasure of who we are and how the sacred is present within us. Join us as we open those doors! Our monthly Saturday morning gatherings for women offer time for reflection, prayer and nourishment of body and spirit. A light brunch is served following the gathering. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Dates/Times: Saturdays, Oct. 3, Nov. 14, Dec. 12, 2009, 10:00 am. Fee: $10. For further information call Cecilia Rahner at 732-223-2880.

  • NEW!
    Personal Retreat Day
    • Take a day away from the busyness of your life to rest a while in the Lord. The day includes silence, personal prayer and optional spiritual direction. We begin and end with a brief prayer together. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Date/Time: October 7 and November 4, 2009, 9:30am to 2:30 pm. Donation: $10 or $40 with Spiritual Direction. Please bring a bag lunch. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • Monthly Spiritual Exercises

    • If you need or desire a retreat but simply cannot get away, please give yourself the gift of this retreat that invites you to pray with Scripture each day using the format of the Spiritual Exercises of St. Ignatius. We will meet monthly for sharing and input on the next month's prayer. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Dates/Time: Nine Wednesdays - Oct 7, Nov 4, Dec. 2, Dec 30, Feb 10, Mar. 10, Apr. 14, May 5, 3:30 to 4:45 pm. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    Lectio Divina Retreat
    • This year we are offering a monthly opportunity for a Lectio Divina Retreat. Lectio Divina is the age-old practice of praying with Scripture that allows the Word of God to take root in your heart and nourish your soul. You truly encounter God's Presence. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Dates/Times: Oct 9, Nov 13, and Dec 4, 2009, 9:30 am to 1:00 pm. Donation: $20. Lunch included. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    Women's Fall Retreat – "Just Faith"
    • Join other women from local parishes for a peaceful retreat at the Loyola Retreat House, in Morristown, New Jersey. The retreat begins on Friday evening, October 9, and ends after lunch on Sunday, October 11. Transportation is available. Please contact Dorothy Soi at (609) 275-3837 (evenings), or email dtkbiblestudies@aol.com if you would like to attend this retreat or require additional information.

  • NEW!
    Directed Retreat Weekend
    • It is essential for our spiritual and physical health to take time to pray. The Weekend Directed Retreat offers you the opportunity to experience the graced rhythm of life in which rest restores your body and God revives your soul. Liturgy, Spiritual Direction and optional Centering Prayer periods are included. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Dates/Times: Friday, October 9, 2009 7:00 pm to Sunday, October 11, 2009 1:00 pm and again on Friday, November 20, 2009 7:00 pm to Sunday, November 22, 2009 1:00 pm. Donation: $125/$40 non-refundable deposit; please register early. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • Discernment Course
    • This is a course in discernment of spirits. St. Ignatius, the master teacher of discernment, offers us tools and methods to help us hear and follow God's voice as God directs us from within. There will be some reading and journaling required between monthly sessions. Tuition: $200. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Dates/Times: Eight Tuesdays - Oct. 13, Nov. 10, Dec. 15, Feb. 16, Mar. 16, Apr. 13, May 11, Jun. 8, 3:30 to 4:45 pm. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    Money and the Treadmill of Life Seminar
    • Are you struggling in the current economic crisis? Come to our seminar and discover how the Catholic Church is guiding each of us to reexamine our finances and prioritize what is important and what is necessary. Let us follow the example of Jesus and His Disciples and gain the peace and contentment we need! Thursday October 15, 2009 from 7:00 to 9:00 pm in Upper Kolbe Hall, St. Peter's Parish in Pt. Pleasant Beach. Refreshments will be provided. For additional information, contact Dawn at 732-995-6892.

  • Retreat Day for the Unemployed
    • We invite those currently unemployed to come for a day to nourish and strengthen your spirit during this stressful time to become optimistic, feel encouraged, and receive guidance. The day will include input, prayer, liturgy and lunch. Presenters: Sisters Maureen Christensen, RSM and Trudy Ahern, SSJ, co-Directors at the Upper Room and educators of spiritual directors. Date/Time: Thursday, October 22, 2009, 9:30 am to 3:30 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: Free. Light lunch included. Registration required by Oct. 15th. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    Benedictine Spirituality
    • Is your life out of balance? Too much to do in 24 hours? St. Benedict of Nursia knew how much one tries to accomplish in a day. He chose as the motto for his monks "Ora et Labora" "Pray and work". This was Benedict's rhythm for life...a means of balancing one's life. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Date/Time: October 16, 2009, 9:30 am to 1:00 pm. Donation: $20. Lunch included. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    "40 Somethings" – Let Your Life Speak
    • God has given you one life to live. What difference are you called to make in the world? What is your "true self" and your personal vocation? Please come. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Date/Time: October 16, 2009, 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Donation: $25. Book included. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • Men's Gathering
    • The Men's Gathering program consists of stand-alone meetings where men will hear – and have a chance to discuss – presentations that focus on the theme: "Making Sense of My Life in Today's World – Where does God Fit"? Presenter: Steve Piron, coordinator of a Men's Spirituality Program at St. Mary's Parish, Colts Neck, NJ. Dates/Times: Mondays - Oct. 19, Nov. 16, Dec. 14, Jan 18, 2009, 7:00 to 8:30pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: $10. For further information contact Steve at 732-845-0221 or sfpiron@msn.com.

  • Knitting and Prayer
    • Learn how to combine your knitting/crocheting skills, prayer and compassion and be rewarded with the satisfaction of creating a prayer shawl. Little or no experience required. Presenter: Lois Dougherty, a spiritual director at the Upper Room and a very experienced knitter. Dates/Times: Wednesdays, Oct. 21, Nov. 18, and Dec. 16, 2009, 1:30 to 3:30 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: $10. Registration required one week in advance. Participants do not need to attend all classes. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • Lamenting Our Losses
    • At this evening of prayer and reflection on grief and loss, we will tap into our faith tradition, scripture and ritual, and explore and experience our generous invitation to lament our losses with a loving God. Presenter: Mary E. Winters, RN, MSN, a Hospice Nurse, Chaplain and Spiritual Director, has worked as a nurse in healthcare for over thirty years. Date/Time: Thursday, October 29, 2009, 7:00 to 9:30 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: $25. Registration required with a $10 deposit by Oct. 22nd. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • Spiritual Reading Group
    • We will focus on the writings of 3 Carmelite Saints: St. Therese of Lisieux, St. Teresa of Avila & St. Edith Stein. Donation: $150. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Dates/Times: Eight Fridays - Oct. 23, Nov. 13, Dec. 4, Dec. 30, Feb. 12, Mar. 12, Apr. 9, May 14, 6:30 to 8:30 pm. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • Beginning Experience Weekend – "A weekend away for a lifetime of change"
    • Beginning Experience is a program designed to help widowed, separated and divorced persons make a new beginning in life. The program is a powerful and positive experience of hope and peace and is open to persons of all faith. The specially trained teams are "wounded healers" who have suffered the loss of a spouse and the end of a marriage. The participants are led through the program which consists of presentations by the team, private personal reflection and dialogue in small groups. The next weekend is October 23 to 25, 2009, at Stella Maris Retreat Center, Elberon. For additional information, call Rich at 609-333-9868, Vivian at 732-441-7070 or Elise at 609-333-9868.

  • Directed Prayer Weekends
    • An opportunity for individuals to spend time with God in an atmosphere of prayerful silence. Each person meets with a spiritual director daily. Two Sessions: October 23 to 25, 2009 and November 20 to 22, 2009. Arrival: Friday, 7:00 pm. Departure: Sunday, 3:00 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: $150 per session. Deposit: $75 (with reservation, non-transferable, non-refundable). Please register one week in advance. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • The Three R's: Rahner, Rolheiser & Rohr
    • We will use these three contemporary spiritual guides to illumine our minds and enliven our spirits throughout the year. Donation: $75. We will read: "God in the World" by Karl Rahner, "Everything Belongs" by Richard Rohr, and "Against an Infinite Horizon" by Ronald Rolheiser. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton, NJ. Dates/ Times: Three Tuesdays - Oct. 27, Nov. 10, Dec. 15, 9:00 to 10:30 am. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • A Discerning Heart: Paying Attention to God
    • Three evenings, presented by each of the Upper Room co-directors, will invite you to learn about and experience the dynamics of discernment. The first evening is "An Introduction to Discernment", presented by Sr. Maureen Conroy, RSM, D.Min. The second evening's topic is "Discernment and Decision-Making", presented by Sr. Maureen Christensen, RSM, and the topic of the third evening is "Discernment in Everyday Life", presented by Sr. Trudy Ahern, SSJ. Dates/Times: Three Wednesdays, Nov. 4, Nov. 11, Nov. 18, from 7:00 to 9:30 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: $25 each evening, $70 for the series. Registration required with a $10 deposit by Oct. 30th. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • Becoming a Compassionate Presence
    • Joyce Rupp will provide theories about compassion from the disciplines of psychology, science, spirituality, theology, and sociology. This workshop includes 2 presentations, processes to explore personal experiences of compassion in the spiritual direction relationship, and evolving ways of furthering a compassionate presence. Presenter: Joyce Rupp, OSM, the author of numerous books and an international speaker. Date/Time: Friday, November 6, 2009, 9:30 am to 4:00 pm.  Place: St. Mary's, Colts Neck. Fee: $75 (bring lunch and beverage). Registration required with a $25 deposit by October 30, 2009. Space is limited so register soon! To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • Fourteenth Annual Spirituality Conference – Open the Door: A Journey to the True Self
    • Treat yourself to a day of prayerful reflection led by the well-known spiritual writer, Joyce Rupp, OSM, a member of the Servants of Mary community, a worldwide-known author, and an international speaker. Using the theme of her latest book, Open the Door, Joyce will invite you to take a journey inward to the deepest, truest part of who you are, and then invite you to bring this giftedness outward to the world. This conference is presented by The Upper Room Spiritual Center in Neptune. Date/Time: Saturday, November 7, 2009, 9:00 am to 4:00 pm. Fee: $65.00 + $5.00 late fee if after October 30, 2009. Place: Georgian Court University, Lakewood, NJ. For more information please contact: 732-922-0550 or office@theupper-room.org. Register through the Upper Room at www.theupper-room.org.

  • NEW!
    The Practice of Letting Go
    • Life provides many opportunities to let go of our attachments to belonging and security, affection and esteem, power and control. Is God calling you to practice letting go? "What God arranges for us to experience at each moment is the best and holiest thing that could happen to us" ~ Jean-Pierre de Caussade. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Date/Time: November 3, 2009, 9:30 am to 1:00 pm. Donation: $20.  Lunch included. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    "50 Somethings" – Making the Transition into Life's Second Half
    • The transition into life's second half is most challenging and happens in God's time. We move from being driven by externals (the people, events and things outside of us) to an interior sense of knowing and loving that is uniquely ours from God. We will focus on the obstacles to making the transitions that prevent us from really enjoying life's second half. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Date/Time: Wednesday, November 11, 2009, 7:00 to 8:30 pm. Donation: $10. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    "60 to 100 Somethings" – The Gift of Years: Growing Older
    • Sister Joan Chittister, OSB, has given us a wonderful treatment of growing older in her book, The Gift of Years. In it she invites us to embrace older age as a natural part of life that is both active and contemplative, productive and reflective, and deeply rewarding. She encourages us to cherish the blessings of aging and to overcome its challenges. She shows us clearly that it is a special period of life, maybe the most special of them all. (Joan Chittister's book will be available if you wish.) Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Date/Time: Monday, November 23, 2009, 9:30 am to 1:00 pm. Donation: $20. Lunch included. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • NEW!
    Blessed are You Who Mourn
    • The upcoming holidays can be a source of sorrow and grief for those who have lost loved ones recently (or not so recently.) Come together with others for a morning of prayer to remember your loved ones and be consoled and strengthened by God and one another. Location: Francis House of Prayer, Westampton. Date/Time: Tuesday, November 24, 2009, 9:30 am to 1:00 pm. Love Offering. Lunch included. To register, call 609-877-0509 or email fhop@verizon.net. If you register by email include your full name and your phone number.

  • About Comings and Goings: Christ's and Ours
    • Jesus said to His Father, "I come to do Your will". Come to a better understanding of Christ and a better understanding of your own calling. Presenter: Rev. Richard Rento, a retired priest of the Paterson Diocese, chaplain at Seabrook Village in Tinton Falls, and regular broadcaster on Station WPAT. Date/Time: Thursday, December 3, 2009, 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: $45 (Light lunch included). Registration required with a $20 deposit by Nov. 27th. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • Advent Taizé Prayer
    • Come for a refreshing evening of communal contemplative prayer using the beautiful chants of the Taize community. This Advent evening of prayer will include psalm singing, Scripture readings, silence, and prayer at the crèche. Presenters: Faithful Love Music Group. Date/Time: Tuesday, December 1, 2009, 7:30 to 8:30 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Free Will Offering. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

  • Advent: Silence and Solitude Day: "Be Still and Know That I am God"
    • You are invited to put aside your busyness and be alone with God for a day. The day will include a gathering and closing prayer, liturgy and a simple meal. Presenter: Sr. Trudy Ahern, SSJ, co-director of the Upper Room Spiritual Center, and educator of spiritual directors. Date/Time: Thursday, December 10, 2009, 9:30 am to 2:30 pm. Location: The Upper Room Spiritual Center, Neptune. Fee: $25 (Light lunch included). Registration required with a $10 deposit by Dec. 3rd. To register, email office@theupper-room.org with your full name and your phone number.

    Offerings Outside the Diocese

  • NEW!
    Parish Training in Lifelong Faith Formation
    • Through training, consulting, coaching, and supportive resources, we can equip your parish staff and volunteer leadership with the knowledge, skills, tools, and program resources for creating lifelong faith formation for the whole parish community. Presenter: Leif Kehrwald. Mark the date, form a team and plan to attend. October 2 and 3, 2009, 9:00 am to 3:30 pm at St. John Neumann Center, 146 Metlars Lane, Piscataway. Cost $75 per person, includes breakfasts, lunches & resources. To register or for more information, contact pmartin@diometuchen.org or 732-562-1990 x 1310.

  • Bible Conference on the Gospel of Matthew: The King and His Kingdom
    • Presenter: Jeff Cavins, renowned Bible teacher. Date: Saturday, October 3, 2009 at Immaculate Conception Church, Somerville, NJ. For more information, contact Patti Jannuzzi at 908-725-1112 x1124 or pjannuzzi@icsomerville.org. For registration form www.diometuchen.org/deptsministries/evangelization/around-the-diocese-beyond/.

  • NEW!
    Evangelizing Digital Natives and Forming Catholics on the Internet ONLINE Paulist National Catholic Evangelization Association
    • The next session in the Catholic Speakers Online series will feature Dr. Tom Curran of MyCatholicFaith.org speaking on Thursday, October 8, 2009, at 3:00 pm EDT. Tom will share principles and practices for effectively utilizing the internet as a means of forming Catholics in the faith and also to reach out to "digital natives" – the younger generation who spend increasing amounts of time getting information and interacting on the internet. The entire event is free, but registration is required. To register, visit http://www.pncea.org/ or call 202-832-5022.

  • NEW!
    Hospitality, More Than a Greeting!
    • Our Sunday Visitor invites you to attend their live web-based training called a "Webinar":

    • Working Through Parish Change: How to Help Parishioners through Transitions – October 22, 2009, Presenter: Lorene Duquin
    • On-the-Job Stewardship: A Short Course for Parish Business Managers – November 18, 2009, Presenter: Sharon Hueckel
    • Why Catholics Don't Go to Mass: December 1, 2009, Presenter: Lorene Duquin

    All sessions are offered at 2:00 pm and 7:00 pm Eastern Time. Cost is $49 per computer connection. To register or for more information, www.osvenvelopes.com

     

  • "I Have Called You by Name" Conference
    • What would you ask for your Church at this point in time? What gift would you like to leave future generations? Explore the full measure of our baptismal call and how it can be "lived out loud" in the life of the parish community with passion and zeal. Friday evening will include an oratorio performance of "Agape" by Marty Haugen and feature Msgr. Ray East. Saturday keynote address is by Rev. Richard Fragomeni. Dates: Friday evening October 23 and Saturday October 24, 2009 at the College of Saint Elizabeth in Morristown, NJ. For more information call Angela Schmidt at 973-290-4302. For brochure visit www.cse.edu/center. (Co-sponsored by the Center for Theological and Spiritual Development and the Institute for Liturgical Formation.)

  • Prepare to Lead: Bible Training Course
    • This course is a 9 month introductory course on the Bible for anyone who is interested in learning the Catholic approach to reading and interpreting the Sacred Scriptures. The course overviews the structure of the Bible, the narrative approach to salvation history, the development of the canon, how to pray the Scriptures, a bit of the geography of the Holy Land and some basic tools for Bible Study. It will be offered this year again in two locations beginning in September. PLEASE NOTE: registration is required and space is limited in some locations. For details concerning dates, times and registration please go to www.diometuchen.org/deptsministries/evangelization/formation-training.

  • Prepárate a Evangelizar : Cursos de Formación en la Fe
    • Spanish courses on the Scriptures and the Life of Christ to assist in the faith formation of evangelizers. Offered in three locations: Perth Amboy, New Brunswick and Bernardsville. The classes run for nine months - September through May. For more information call Josue Arriola at 732-562-1990 x1823 or jarriola@diometuchen.org.

  • Banquet to Benefit Good Counsel Homes – South Jersey
    • Join in a celebration of life with dinner, laughter and dancing, featuring Christian comedian Gordon Douglas Friday-October 23, 2009, 6:00 to 9:00 pm at Lucien's Manor, 81 White Horse Pike (Rte 30), Berlin. Special address by Christopher Bell, co-founder of Good Counsel Homes. Through love, encouragement and specially designed programs, homeless, pregnant moms are given the chance to acquire life long skills enabling them to provide a stable home for themselves and their children. To learn more about this mission, go to www.goodcounselhomes.org. For reservations and information, please contact Marisol Crespo, Phone: 856-332-9164, E-Mail: marimachi78@hotmail.com

  • SAVE THE DATE!
    The Great Saints and Their Families Retreat Series
    • The Catholic Center for Family Spirituality of Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology presents two retreats:

    • St. Monica: A Mother's Tears: Saturday, October 24, 2009, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at Our Lady of Mt. Carmel, Ridgewood, Presenter: Rev. Douglas J. Milewski, S.T.D. RSVP by October 19
    • St. Thérèse of Lisieux and Her Parents and Sisters: A Story of the Martin Family: Saturday, November 14, 2009, 9:00 am to 3:00 pm at Immaculate Conception Seminary, Lewis Hall. Presenter Rev. John F. Russell, O.Carm., S.T.D. RSVP by November 6.
    • St. Joseph and Spiritual Fatherhood Advent Retreat: Saturday, December 12, 2009, at St. Mary's Church, Pompton Lakes – Details coming soon.

    Cost: $20, includes lunch. To register, contact Kristine Hudak at 973-761-9633 or Kristine.hudak@shu.edu.

  • NEW!
    Critical Life Issues Conference Program
    • Topics include: The Global Struggle for a Culture of Life; The Myth of Overpopulation; Toxins, the Environment and the Child in the Womb; and The Seamless Garment Revealed. Saturday, October 24, 2009, 8:00 am to 3:30 pm at the St. John Neumann Conference Center, 146 Metlars Lane, Piscataway. Presented by the Diocese of Metuchen. Presenters: Marie Smith, Steven Mosher, Mark LeChavillier, Ph.D., and Mary-Louis Kurey. Cost: $25, includes handouts, exhibits, and lunch. For more information, call 732-562-1990 ext 1629 or 1543. Go to www.RespectLifeToday.com to download the flyer.

  • NEW!
    Changing the Face of Caregivers - National Caregivers Conference
    • We hope that you will join us on Thursday, October 29, 2009, at the Renaissance Woodbridge Hotel, Iselin, where you will have the opportunity to learn and collaborate with speakers, providers and caregivers from around the country. Keynote speaker: Doug Ulman. Doug is a three-time cancer survivor and national cancer survivorship advocate. For more information, please call the Family Support Center of NJ (732) 528-8080 and a staff member will be ready to assist you.

  • SAVE THE DATE!
    Bible Study Facilitator Training Workshop
    • A training workshop for the Great Adventure Bible Study System will be presented by Ascension Press on Saturday November 7th from 8:00 am to 3:00 pm. It will take place at Immaculate Conception Church, Somerville. Further information will be available shortly from the Diocese of Metuchen.

  • Archdiocese of Philadelphia: CATHOLIC LIFE CONGRESS 2009
    • On Saturday, November 14, 2009, The Archdiocese of Philadelphia will present the Catholic Life Congress 2009, featuring Celebration of the Eucharist by The Most Reverend Robert P. Maginnis, D.D., and a keynote address by Joseph Paprocki, National Consultant for Faith Formation at Loyola Press in Chicago, with 30 years of experience in pastoral ministry in the Archdiocese of Chicago. Registration begins at 8:15am, with a Eucharistic Liturgy at 9:30am, and three sessions of workshops & major presenters from 12pm to 3:30pm. Tickets are required for all sessions; you choose three sessions to attend. For a complete listing of sessions and to register (as a group or individual), visit http://www.archdiocese-phl.org/evangelization/formlaity.clg.htm. For more information, call 215-587-5667. Catechists and Catholic School Teachers: One Archdiocesan credit for Religious Certification will be given for attending the entire day!

  • NEW!
    Finding Grace in Loss and Bereavement – ONLINE Paulist Evangelization Institute
    • Instructor: Geraldine Fialowski, Pastral Counseling Department of Loyola College in Maryland.  Date/Time: November 19, 2009. Registration information will be posted in the near future on www.pncea.org/store

    Offerings from Colleges and Universities

  • La Salle University: Graduate Program in Theology and Ministry Spring 2010 Schedule
    • At the Buck's County campus on alternating Saturdays, "Canon Law for Parish Ministry" (course RLE707). At the Diocesan Pastoral Center in Lawrenceville, NJ on Tuesdays from 6:30 to 9:00 pm, "Church and Ministry" (course RLE507). For more information, to register, or for a complete listing of classes (including classes at the Main Campus), contact Fr. Frank Berna at 215-951-1335 or berna@lasalle.edu.

  • Caldwell College
    Masters and Master Level Certificate Program 2009-2010
    • Caldwell College stands ready and eager to meet the educational needs of those in the Roman Catholic Church and others who desire expertise and credentials in Christian theology and pastoral care. Students come to campus six Saturdays in the Fall semester, two weekends during the January term, and six Saturdays in the Spring semester. Students also earn six credits through guided independent study in two summer sessions, and evening courses are offered on occasion. For more information: www.caldwell.edu/pastoral%5Fministry/courses.aspx or contact sbmoore@caldwell.edu.

  • 2009-2010 Classes at Caldwell College
    • In the winter of 2009-2010, PM 664 "Ministry to the Grieving." In the spring of 2010, PM 630 "Theological Foundations". For more information, visit http://www.caldwell.edu/pastoral%5Fministry/courses.aspx or contact sbmoore@caldwell.edu.

    “The initiative for mission belongs to God.
    The Holy Spirit is the principal agent of mission.
    Individually from our baptism, and as a Diocese,
    we are led by the Holy Spirit and
    sent to continue Christ’s mission in the world.”


    (“Led by the Spirit: A Pastoral Plan for the Diocese of Trenton,” May 31, 2009, p. 7)

    Contact:

    Mr. John Boucher
    Director, Office of Parish Life
    Evangelization Ministry
    Diocese of Trenton
    701 Lawrenceville Road
    Trenton, NJ 08648
    609-406-7400 ext. 5590
    jbouch@dioceseoftrenton.org

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