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Pastor installed at N.J.’s oldest parish in West Milford #Catholic –

St. Joseph Parish in West Milford, New Jersey’s oldest Catholic faith community, marked three major milestones during a Mass with Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney on Nov. 16: the parish’s 260th birthday, the 120th anniversary of its current church, and the installation of its new pastor, Father Jakub Grzybowski.

The rural 300-family Passaic County parish lives that long legacy of faith through liturgical, spiritual, and religious-formation activities, social justice outreaches, and improvement and historical preservation projects. St. Joseph’s is also the oldest Catholic parish in the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey.

St. Joseph Church was filled as Bishop Sweeney served as the principal celebrant and homilist at the Mass. Many priests concelebrated, including Father Grzybowski and Father Zig Peplowski, pastor of St. Cecilia Parish in Rockaway, N.J., and a former pastor of the parish. A diverse congregation of current and former members of St. Joseph’s attended the liturgy.

Bishop Sweeney also installed Grzybowski as pastor during the Mass. The priest was named the parish’s administrator in 2019 and its pastor on March 19 this year.

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“Becoming pastor of St. Joseph’s fills my heart with profound gratitude and humility,” the Polish-born Father Grzybowski said. “What stands out about this parish is its beauty and its quiet, prayerful atmosphere. I love this church, its history, and the way it holds the memories of so many generations. Although it has suffered fires and undergone significant changes during various periods of reformation, the people today are working with tremendous dedication to restore the original character of the oldest church in New Jersey. Their love for this place is visible everywhere, and it inspires me daily.”

St. Joseph’s has embarked on projects to honor its history, such as reinstalling rediscovered altar rails from the earliest days of the current church, which opened in 1905, and installing new side altars to replace those removed years ago, as well as a new ambo. The parish also renovated its pastoral center.

The parish lives out its faith through Masses, Friday Eucharistic adoration, various religious devotions, Bible study, Generations of Faith religious formation, a food pantry, and Disciples of Christ, an evangelization and service group.

In 1765, German immigrants founded the Catholic settlement that became St. Joseph’s upon their arrival in the U.S. In time, Jesuit Father Ferdinand Farmer, also born in Germany, began riding horseback from his parish, St. Joseph in Philadelphia, Penn., to West Milford. In between his twice-yearly visits, these pioneers gathered in their homes to pray. Father Farmer stopped visiting in 1786, and no Masses were celebrated in the area for 25 years. Yet, the faithful continued to pray and catechize.

In 1829, the first church, dedicated to St. Luke, was built. Back in 1880, the renamed St. Joseph was considered a mission church, part of St. Anthony Parish in Butler, N.J., and was administered by Franciscan friars. They would include Father Mychal Judge, St. Joseph’s pastor from 1979 to 1985, and chaplain of the New York City Fire Department, who died in the terrorist attacks at the World Trade Center on Sept. 11, 2001.

In 1887, a larger church was built, but it was burnt to the ground in 1904. The current church opened in 1905. In 1956, the Sisters of Charity arrived to administer the parish school, which opened that year. The Franciscans returned the parish to the Paterson Diocese’s administration in 2003. The school closed in 2006.

“To now be installed as pastor in this Jubilee year celebrating 260 years of the parish and 120 years since the church’s rebuilding is meaningful,” Father Grzybowski said. “It feels like stepping into a living story of faith, resilience, and God’s ongoing presence.”

– St. Joseph Parish in West Milford, New Jersey’s oldest Catholic faith community, marked three major milestones during a Mass with Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney on Nov. 16: the parish’s 260th birthday, the 120th anniversary of its current church, and the installation of its new pastor, Father Jakub Grzybowski. The rural 300-family Passaic County parish lives that long legacy of faith through liturgical, spiritual, and religious-formation activities, social justice outreaches, and improvement and historical preservation projects. St. Joseph’s is also the oldest Catholic parish in the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey. St. Joseph Church was filled as Bishop Sweeney served as

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Paterson parishes offer busy confirmation students convenient Zoom classes #Catholic –

Most students in virtual confirmation classes for two Paterson, N.J., parishes this past summer were able to join from the comfort of their homes, with little or no distractions. But some took part wherever and however they could — from young mothers caring for their children to late-night workers closing their office doors to concentrate.

Raysa Gonzales of Our Lady of Pompei (OLP) Parish in Paterson often joined the first-time confirmation classes of OLP and St. Gerard Majella Parish, also in Paterson, from her office. Over the summer, she was one of 28 adults who took advantage of the convenience of attending 8 to 10 90-minute English-language classes on Tuesday evenings via Zoom.

Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney confirmed these Catholics during a Mass at St. Gerard’s on Oct. 12, the feast of St. Carlo Acutis, the first millennial saint, canonized by Pope Leo XVI in Rome on Sept. 7. Students attended eight classes for confirmation prep and twice more for first Holy Communion prep, followed by an in-person retreat.

“I was happy that we [students] could see and interact with each other and express our thoughts — like being in a classroom,” said Gonzales. A Paterson resident who returned to attending Mass, she works full time, started her own business, and is a parent to Elijah, 8, and an OLP lector. “Going to church makes me feel peaceful. I want to teach Elijah the faith. I have more knowledge but have more to learn.”

The classes consisted of 18- to 40-year-olds who wanted to complete their sacraments to get married, become godparents, or enter full communion with the Church. Participants hailed from as far away as New York State and Princeton, N.J., through word of mouth. Jan Figenshu, who volunteers at her parish, St. Gerard’s, coordinated the course.

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“There is a need for this type of formation. The Zoom classes make sense for people with family commitments, those who work late, or those who don’t have time for a long commute. It was beautiful to see their dedication,” Figenshu said. “Some brought their friends and family to the classes. One person found the program by asking Chat GPT ‘Where can I prepare for confirmation?’”

Each class consisted of an opening prayer, a time when students described a “holy moment” of God’s grace they experienced that week, a lesson on the week’s topic, small-group discussions, a review of the Sunday readings, and a closing prayer.

“I promote the joy of being Catholic and in a faith community. I also encourage the students to go to church without nagging them. Some have gotten more involved in their faith,” Figenshu said.

The course ended with a retreat at St. Gerard’s, which concluded with the Sacrament of Penance presided over by Msgr. George Hundt, pastor of both Paterson parishes, and Father Manuel Cuellar, parochial vicar. Many participants got to know each other. The process has led Msgr. Hundt to help some couples convalidate their civil marriages in the eyes of the Church.

Figenshu started a Zoom confirmation course when Msgr. Hundt previously was pastor of St. Vincent Martyr Parish in Madison, N.J.

Stacey Strover, who was confirmed in the Easter Vigil earlier this year, helped lead small-group discussions on Zoom.

“Getting students involved on Zoom was challenging. We asked open-ended, interactive questions to encourage participation. Sometimes, they would come up with their own questions,” Strover said.

 

– Most students in virtual confirmation classes for two Paterson, N.J., parishes this past summer were able to join from the comfort of their homes, with little or no distractions. But some took part wherever and however they could — from young mothers caring for their children to late-night workers closing their office doors to concentrate. Raysa Gonzales of Our Lady of Pompei (OLP) Parish in Paterson often joined the first-time confirmation classes of OLP and St. Gerard Majella Parish, also in Paterson, from her office. Over the summer, she was one of 28 adults who took advantage of the convenience

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Beyond The Beacon Episode 101: The future is now – Inspiring interviews from our diocesan youth conference #Catholic –

Just back from the fall meeting of the United States’ bishops, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney shares his perspective on participating in the issuance of a rare “special message” regarding the bishops’ concern for the evolving situation affecting immigrants in the United States.

For the second half of the episode, we go remote to the 2025 Diocese of Paterson Youth Conference, “Anchored in Hope,” where Bishop Sweeney interviewed participants. 

Hosted by Bishop Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish of the Diocese of Paterson.

Guests:

• Jessica Martinez – Christ is Alive Youth Ministry, Our Lady of Fatima & St Nicholas in Passaic, N.J.
• Juan-Pablo Martinez – Christ is Alive Youth Ministry, Our Lady of Fatima & St Nicholas in Passaic, N.J.
• Janely Jose – Youth Minister at Our Lady of Fatima & St Nicholas in Passaic, N.J.
• Meryl Payyappilly – St. Jude Parish in Budd Lake, N.J.
• Etelka Moliner – St. Jude Parish in Budd Lake, N.J.
• Mary Hill – Youth Minister at St. Jude Parish in Budd Lake, N.J.

Listen to the episode here, or on any major podcast platform, or watch it on Bishop Sweeney’s YouTube channel.

– Just back from the fall meeting of the United States’ bishops, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney shares his perspective on participating in the issuance of a rare “special message” regarding the bishops’ concern for the evolving situation affecting immigrants in the United States. For the second half of the episode, we go remote to the 2025 Diocese of Paterson Youth Conference, “Anchored in Hope,” where Bishop Sweeney interviewed participants.  Hosted by Bishop Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish of the Diocese of Paterson. Guests: Jessica Martinez – Christ is Alive Youth Ministry, Our Lady of Fatima & St Nicholas in Passaic,

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NJ’s longest-running group home opens doors at new location #Catholic –

Christmas came early at Murray House in Clifton, N.J.

“Welcome home!” Joanna Miller, executive director of the Department for Persons with Disabilities (DPD) of Catholic Charities of the Paterson Diocese in N.J., and her staff exclaimed as they greeted clients of Murray House, a group home for men and women with intellectual and developmental disabilities.

Murray House staff and clients joined diocesan and community leaders, family members, and volunteers for the blessing and ribbon-cutting celebration of the group home’s new location on Nov. 14. DPD is part of Catholic Charities.

Opened in 1971, Murray House was the first group home for men and women with intellectual and developmental disabilities in the Garden State. The home is named in honor of Jimmie Murray, who had a developmental disability and died in 1969. DPD aims to make the move to the new location by Christmas.

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Residents were excited to tour the home and see their bedrooms freshly painted in the colors they selected. Laura Beahm said her sister, a resident of Murray House for 14 years, is looking forward to moving in.

“My sister called me every day about it. The house is beautiful. I love the garden, the ramp. It makes you feel so safe,” Beahm said.

Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney led the blessing and prayer.

“We thank God for the gift of life and the gift of family. And the family needs a home. And we’re so grateful to all those who have made this moment possible. We pray that every family would know peace and happiness in a safe home,” Bishop Sweeney said.

During the ribbon-cutting, Miller presented a plaque to the Murray family for its dedication, in partnership with DPD, for more than 50 years in making the home “a beacon of compassion and dignity.”

Jimmie’s brothers, Dennis Murray, vice president of the board of Catholic Charities, and Patrick Murray, officer in charge of the Paterson Police Department, and other family members, celebrated the milestone with residents and the community. The late Father Jack Wehrlen, founder of DPD, and the Murray family opened the first Murray House in 1971.

Bishop Sweeney thanked community and government leaders for their support, including U.S. Rep. Nellie Pou and State Sen. Kristin Corrado, both of whom attended the event.

“This is a sign of hope in this Jubilee Year of Hope for the Church. Look what we can do when we work together as neighbors and as a community,” Bishop Sweeney said.

The lawmakers applauded the Murray family and the DPD staff for their commitment to helping the residents flourish and grow. They wished the residents much happiness in their home.

“All of you will become one family. That is what we all want,” Pou said.

Corrado noted that there was a time when homes like Murray House were not available for “our most special and wonderful residents with intellectual and developmental disabilities.” It takes a village, said Corrado, adding, “Every person in this room is part of that village.”

Scott Milliken, CEO of Catholic Charities, said it has been their dream to relocate Murray House so that the residents can age in place.

“It’s a testament to our belief that every person deserves to age with dignity, independence, safety, and comfort. This fully accessible ranch-style home in Clifton will ensure they can continue to thrive safely in the place they love. Murray House has set the standard for compassionate, person-centered care for over five decades. This relocation honors that legacy while securing their future,” Milliken said. “This is your home, and you can stay here for a very long time. Enjoy it, live well, and prosper.”

Celebrating its 60th anniversary, DPD operates 10 group homes and one supervised apartment program, with a new group home scheduled to open in Morris County in 2026, to help individuals live with dignity and respect. DPD has been accredited by the Council on Accreditation since 1986 and is the only provider in the intellectual and developmental disabilities field in New Jersey to hold this accreditation.

Miller also said it was essential to the Catholic Charities staff to keep Murray House in Clifton because the residents have been part of the community’s fabric, and their day and support programs are nearby.

“They’re engaged in many activities. They worship there. They shop there. They take part in recreational activities and all the different activities that make Clifton a great place for them,” Miller said.

– Christmas came early at Murray House in Clifton, N.J. “Welcome home!” Joanna Miller, executive director of the Department for Persons with Disabilities (DPD) of Catholic Charities of the Paterson Diocese in N.J., and her staff exclaimed as they greeted clients of Murray House, a group home for men and women with intellectual and developmental disabilities. Murray House staff and clients joined diocesan and community leaders, family members, and volunteers for the blessing and ribbon-cutting celebration of the group home’s new location on Nov. 14. DPD is part of Catholic Charities. Opened in 1971, Murray House was the first group home

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U.S. bishops issue a ‘Special Message’ on immigration from assembly in Baltimore #Catholic –

BALTIMORE – As the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for its Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore, the bishops issued a “Special Message” addressing their concern for the evolving situation impacting immigrants in the United States. It marked the first time in 12 years the USCCB invoked this particularly urgent way of speaking as a body of bishops. The last one issued in 2013 was in response to the federal government’s contraceptive mandate.

Under the regulations pertaining to statements and publications of the Conference, a “Special Message” may only be issued at plenary assemblies, and they are statements which the president of the Conference, the Administrative Committee, or the general membership considers to be appropriate in view of the circumstances at the time. To show the consensus of the body, a “Special Message” must receive the support of two-thirds of the Conference members present and voting at the plenary in order to pass. In a vote of 216 in favor, five  against, and three abstentions, the bishops overwhelmingly approved the “Special Message,” with sustained applause of the body following the vote.

The full text of the bishops’ Special Pastoral Message follows:

As pastors, we, the bishops of the United States, are bound to our people by ties of communion and compassion in Our Lord Jesus Christ. We are disturbed when we see among our people a climate of fear and anxiety around questions of profiling and immigration enforcement. We are saddened by the state of contemporary debate and the vilification of immigrants. We are concerned about the conditions in detention centers and the lack of access to pastoral care. We lament that some immigrants in the United States have arbitrarily lost their legal status. We are troubled by threats against the sanctity of houses of worship and the special nature of hospitals and schools. We are grieved when we meet parents who fear being detained when taking their children to school, and when we try to console family members who have already been separated from their loved ones.

Despite obstacles and prejudices, generations of immigrants have made enormous contributions to the well-being of our nation. We, as Catholic bishops, love our country and pray for its peace and prosperity. For this very reason, we feel compelled now in this environment to raise our voices in defense of God-given human dignity.

Catholic teaching exhorts nations to recognize the fundamental dignity of all persons, including immigrants. We bishops advocate for a meaningful reform of our nation’s immigration laws and procedures. Human dignity and national security are not in conflict. Both are possible if people of goodwill work together.

We recognize that nations have a responsibility to regulate their borders and establish a just and orderly immigration system for the sake of the common good. Without such processes, immigrants face the risk of trafficking and other forms of exploitation. Safe and legal pathways serve as an antidote to such risks.

The Church’s teaching rests on the foundational concern for the human person, as created in the image and likeness of God (Genesis 1:27). As pastors, we look to Sacred Scripture and the example of the Lord Himself, where we find the wisdom of God’s compassion. The priority of the Lord, as the Prophets remind us, is for those who are most vulnerable: the widow, the orphan, the poor, and the stranger (Zechariah 7:10). In the Lord Jesus, we see the One who became poor for our sake (2 Corinthians 8:9), we see the Good Samaritan who lifts us from the dust (Luke 10:30–37), and we see the One who is found in the least of these (Matthew 25). The Church’s concern for neighbor and our concern here for immigrants is a response to the Lord’s command to love as He has loved us (John 13:34).

To our immigrant brothers and sisters, we stand with you in your suffering, since when one member suffers, all suffer (cf. 1 Corinthians 12:26). You are not alone!

We note with gratitude that so many of our clergy, consecrated religious, and lay faithful already accompany and assist immigrants in meeting their basic human needs. We urge all people of goodwill to continue and expand such efforts.

We oppose the indiscriminate mass deportation of people. We pray for an end to dehumanizing rhetoric and violence, whether directed at immigrants or at law enforcement. We pray that the Lord may guide the leaders of our nation, and we are grateful for past and present opportunities to dialogue with public and elected officials. In this dialogue, we will continue to advocate for meaningful immigration reform.

As disciples of the Lord, we remain men and women of hope,
and hope does not disappoint! (cf. Romans 5:5)

May the mantle of Our Lady of Guadalupe enfold us all in her maternal and loving care and draw us ever closer to the heart of Christ.

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– BALTIMORE – As the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) gathered for its Fall Plenary Assembly in Baltimore, the bishops issued a “Special Message” addressing their concern for the evolving situation impacting immigrants in the United States. It marked the first time in 12 years the USCCB invoked this particularly urgent way of speaking as a body of bishops. The last one issued in 2013 was in response to the federal government’s contraceptive mandate. Under the regulations pertaining to statements and publications of the Conference, a “Special Message” may only be issued at plenary assemblies, and they are statements

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Watch: Remarks by Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney on the Feast of Mother Cabrini and in solidarity with immigrants #Catholic –

Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney shares brief remarks on St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, patron saint of immigrants, to mark her feast day on Nov. 13, and expresses his support for immigrants during the ongoing challenges they face in the United States.

To read more, see Bishop Sweeney’s recent column. 

Also, U.S. bishops issue a ‘Special Message’ on immigration from assembly in Baltimore

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– Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney shares brief remarks on St. Frances Xavier Cabrini, patron saint of immigrants, to mark her feast day on Nov. 13, and expresses his support for immigrants during the ongoing challenges they face in the United States. To read more, see Bishop Sweeney’s recent column.  Also, U.S. bishops issue a ‘Special Message’ on immigration from assembly in Baltimore Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter.  

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Former Florham Park priest’s encouragement leads to Divine Word vocation #Catholic –

From a grandmother’s lips to God’s ears! Early on, Paulina Macarthy had a hunch about her grandson, Ryan Agbim. When he was 3 years old, she declared, “Ryan is going to be a priest one day.”

Perhaps it was God who first whispered into Macarthy’s ears. Agbim, now 30, formerly of Holy Family Parish in Florham Park, N.J., has since heard — and answered — the Lord’s call. He is preparing to be ordained a priest of the Society of the Divine Word in Chicago, Ill., on May 23, 2026. The seeds of that vocation were first sown in the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey.

Agbim and six other Divine Word Missionaries took their final step toward the priesthood on Oct. 12, when they were ordained to the temporary diaconate at Our Lady of Africa Parish in Chicago. He is now serving at the Shrine of Our Lady of Pompeii in that city as a deacon. Agbim expects to complete his priestly studies at Catholic Theological Union in Chicago before his ordination.

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“When I finish assisting or preaching at Mass as a deacon, I’m happy and smiling. It leaves me saying, ‘I could do this forever — but as a priest,” said Agbim, who admitted he is still getting used to being called “Deacon Ryan.”

From 2003 to 2014, Agbim and his family — his mother, Barbara, from England, and his father, Mathias, from Nigeria, both deceased, and his sister, Jessica — attended weekly Mass at Holy Family.

But it wasn’t until college that Agbim first heard God’s call through the questions of others, like “Have you thought of being a priest?” One of them was Bishop Emeritus Arthur J. Serratelli during a pastoral visit to Holy Family.

Initially, Agbim discerned a life with a wife and children. He earned a bachelor’s degree in public health from Rutgers University in New Brunswick, N.J., in 2018. But at the end of his sophomore year, he had a life-changing conversation with Father Fred Walters, then Holy Family’s pastor, now retired.

“Father Fred said, ‘As a priest, you could be a spiritual father for your spiritual children — to so many people,’” Agbim said. “That moved me from wanting to be a biological father to being a priest.”

Agbim’s exploration of vocations led him to the Society of the Divine Word. He was impressed by the community’s “missionary spirit.” Divine Word Missionaries work globally in 79 countries to spread the Gospel through service and action.

In 2019, Agbim quit his job as a pharmacy technician to enter Divine Word’s novitiate in Epworth, Iowa. He made his first vows in 2020 and his perpetual vows in 2025. He later moved to Hyde Park, Chicago, for theology studies.

Agbim’s many apostolic experiences have included hospital chaplaincy, migrant ministry, social justice, and prison ministry. He spent two years in Italy, first learning the language and culture in Padua. Then, he served a parish in Trent, focusing on pilgrimages, youth ministry, religious education, and a clothing and food drive.

“The parish welcomed this 6-foot black American and built a relationship with me like Jesus talks about. I cried the day I left,” Agbim said.

Agbim’s first assignment as a priest will be with the Chicago Province, which spans from Nebraska to Massachusetts and from Canada to the Caribbean. Divine Word priests and Father Walters inspire him. “Father Fred was always joyful, smiling, and at peace. I want that for my priesthood,” Agbim said.

Concerning his future vocation, Agbim said, “I feel gratitude, mixed with some fear. But I leave certain decisions in God’s hands. He knows better than I do.”

 

– From a grandmother’s lips to God’s ears! Early on, Paulina Macarthy had a hunch about her grandson, Ryan Agbim. When he was 3 years old, she declared, “Ryan is going to be a priest one day.” Perhaps it was God who first whispered into Macarthy’s ears. Agbim, now 30, formerly of Holy Family Parish in Florham Park, N.J., has since heard — and answered — the Lord’s call. He is preparing to be ordained a priest of the Society of the Divine Word in Chicago, Ill., on May 23, 2026. The seeds of that vocation were first sown in the

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In Madison, hearts break for late Jets great, Delbarton coach #Catholic –

Nick Mangold loved being in the thick of the action. There he was having fun presiding over the spring fundraiser for St. Vincent Martyr School in Madison, N.J., while wearing a tuxedo T-shirt under a jacket and a backwards cap.

“Nick made sure everybody had a good time and was patient as people came up and wanted to take pictures with him,” Msgr. George Hundt, former pastor of St. Vincent’s Parish, said Mangold, who was a retired center for the Jets — and a local celebrity.

On Nov. 4, family, friends, and members of the Jets and Delbarton School in Morristown, N.J., gathered for a Mass of Christian Burial in St. Vincent’s Church to honor the faith, kindness, generosity, and work ethic of Nicholas Allan Mangold, who unexpectedly died on Oct. 25. He died of complications from liver disease. He was 41.

Still in shock, mourners attending the liturgy remembered Mangold as a larger-than-life figure — a big man with a big heart — who loved above all his faith, family, and football — in that order. Since retiring from the NFL in 2018, he poured his passion into his family: his wife, Jennifer, and their four children. He was an active parent at St. Vincent’s School and a volunteer at St. Vincent’s Parish and in Madison, where he lived. Mangold had been the offensive line coach for Delbarton’s varsity football since last year.

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“Nick understood that the blessings he was given weren’t meant to serve himself [but] to share with his family, friends, and every community,” Msgr. Hundt, now pastor of St. Gerard Majella and Our Lady of Pompei parishes, both in Paterson, said in remarks at the end of the Mass. “That’s why we can be assured today that as Nick steps into heaven, he’s hearing those words we all want to hear one day: ‘Well done, good and faithful servant. Come into the place that I have prepared for you.’”

Msgr. Hundt joined Father Owen Moran, current pastor of St. Vincent’s; Benedictine Father Michael Tidd, headmaster of Delbarton; and Father Jose Zuniga, St. Vincent’s parochial vicar, in celebrating the funeral Mass. Father Moran delivered the homily. Members of the Jets and Delbarton communities participated in the liturgy. Also that morning, the rest of the Delbarton community remembered Mangold at its annual Mass with Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney.

Demonstrating leadership and grit, Mangold had 11 well-respected seasons with the Jets, earning seven Pro Bowl selections and a spot in the Jets’ Ring of Honor. The Ohio native is now a candidate for the Pro Football Hall of Fame’s Class of 2026. Earlier, Mangold helped the Ohio State Buckeyes clinch a National Championship in 2002.

Far from the NFL, Mangold and his wife were raising their four children — Matthew, Eloise, Thomas, and Charlotte — in the Catholic faith and making memories with them. They attended weekly Mass. The children attended Catholic school. Mangold coached some of their sports and cheered them from the sidelines. They also took trips around the world, including to Disney.

Mangold also supported causes such as the Madison PBA and the Special Olympics.

“Forty-one is too young [to die], but when we present our lives to God, at the end of our lives, however old we will be, it’s not a matter of how old we are. What did we do? What difference did we make? How did we love? How did we forgive, if necessary? How did we bring others to God? How did we reflect God’s love by our lives? Nick ticked all those boxes — and more,” Father Moran said. “Today, Nick invites all of us to live our faith well. He put God first, used his gifts, and enjoyed the ride.”

St. Vincent’s School honored Mangold on social media. The community recited the Luminous Mysteries of the rosary in tribute.

“We asked that the same light of Christ that shone during these mysteries also surround Nick and his family. Nick will never be forgotten. His kindness, generosity, and light will remain in our hearts always,” St. Vincent’s posted on social media.

The standing-room-only attendance at Mangold’s funeral “reflected how many people Nick touched,” said Alan Faneca, a retired NFL guard who played with Mangold on the Jets from 2008-09. He delivered a reflection at the end of Mass.

“It’s the way Nick made people feel. You felt seen, cared for, and valued because of his genuine heart. He’d make your day better with a joke or smile,” Faneca said.

Delbarton varsity football honored Mangold on Nov. 1 during its first game since his death. On their helmets, players wore #74, his Jets number, and passed out hats with #74 and green ribbons. Mangold made his mark by bringing his extensive NFL experience and mentorship skills to the high school level.

Head Coach Brian Bowers told NJ.com about the difficulty of keeping the players focused in the wake of Mangold’s death.

“Our kids have done a great job really supporting one another. It’s difficult for teenagers to go through any loss, let alone the loss of someone they love so much like Coach Mangold,” Bowers said.

When he came to Delbarton, Mangold was humble despite his NFL successes. He was “like a sponge,” soaking up knowledge and wanting to learn more about high school coaching. His son, Matthew, plays freshman football, said Tony Negrin, Delbarton’s athletic director.

“Nick was professional but also passionate and competitive,” Negrin said. “He was the first in to work and the last to leave. He was larger than life, but the players treated him like any other coach. Nick wanted to be part of the community.”

– Nick Mangold loved being in the thick of the action. There he was having fun presiding over the spring fundraiser for St. Vincent Martyr School in Madison, N.J., while wearing a tuxedo T-shirt under a jacket and a backwards cap. “Nick made sure everybody had a good time and was patient as people came up and wanted to take pictures with him,” Msgr. George Hundt, former pastor of St. Vincent’s Parish, said Mangold, who was a retired center for the Jets — and a local celebrity. On Nov. 4, family, friends, and members of the Jets and Delbarton School in

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Watch: Meet Father Joseph DeMarzo, one of the Paterson Diocese’s newest priests #Catholic –

Father Joseph DeMarzo, parochial vicar of St. Andrew the Apostle Church in Clifton, discusses his vocation and ministry as a newly ordained priest.

As we mark National Vocation Awareness Week, we pray for all our priests and for all the men and women discerning vocations. Earlier this week, we also featured Father Brendon Harfmann, parochial vicar of St. Anthony of Padua Church in Hawthorne. Learn more about priesthood vocations to the Paterson Diocese at www.patersonvocations.org.

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– Father Joseph DeMarzo, parochial vicar of St. Andrew the Apostle Church in Clifton, discusses his vocation and ministry as a newly ordained priest. As we mark National Vocation Awareness Week, we pray for all our priests and for all the men and women discerning vocations. Earlier this week, we also featured Father Brendon Harfmann, parochial vicar of St. Anthony of Padua Church in Hawthorne. Learn more about priesthood vocations to the Paterson Diocese at www.patersonvocations.org. Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter.

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It’s official! New pastor installed at Chatham parish #Catholic –

St. Patrick Parish in Chatham, N.J., gathered with great joy on Nov. 1 as Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney installed Father Peter Steven Glabik as the faith community’s new pastor. The bishop appointed Father Glabik as pastor, effective Sept. 1.

Father Glabik previously was pastor of St. Clare Parish in Clifton, N.J. He is currently the vice chair of the Presbyteral Council and vice chair of the College of Consultors for the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey.

Bishop Sweeney celebrated the Mass, which was concelebrated by several priests, including Father Robert Mitchell, a retired diocesan priest, former pastor of St. Patrick’s, and current temporary administrator of St. Rose of Lima Parish in East Hanover, N.J.

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On Oct. 31, 2007, Bishop Emeritus Arthur J. Serratelli ordained Father Glabik to the diocesan priesthood. Born on Feb. 27, 1976, in Brooklyn, N.Y., Father Glabik first studied with the Vincentians, Congregation of the Mission, from 1998 to 2003, and professed first vows, but then discovered his call to the diocesan priesthood.

Father Glabik earned a bachelor’s degree in religion at Niagara University, Niagara Falls, N.Y., and a master’s degree in theology at the Seminary of the Immaculate Conception, Huntington, N.Y. He completed priestly studies at Immaculate Conception Seminary, South Orange, N.Y.

As a priest of the diocese, Father Glabik served his first assignment as a part-time parochial vicar of St. Cecilia Parish and Sacred Heart parishes, both in Rockaway, N.J., while also serving as part-time campus minister at Morris Catholic High School in Denville, N.J. In 2009, he became a full-time parochial vicar of St. Cecilia’s and Sacred Heart.

The following year, Father Glabik was named the temporary priest-secretary to Bishop Serratelli and the diocesan vice chancellor and master of ceremonies. He began pursuing postgraduate studies at the former Ss. Cyril & Methodius Seminary in Orchard Lake, Mich., in 2011.

In 2012, Father Glabik was appointed administrator of St. Catherine of Bologna Parish in Ringwood, N.J., and later that year became pastor. He was named pastor of St. Clare’s in 2015.

In the diocese, Father Glabik also served as dean of northern Passaic, vocations director for recruitment, a member of the Clergy Personnel Board, and Clifton dean.

On social media, St. Patrick School posted, “May God bless Father Peter as he guides our parish and school with wisdom and grace.”

– St. Patrick Parish in Chatham, N.J., gathered with great joy on Nov. 1 as Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney installed Father Peter Steven Glabik as the faith community’s new pastor. The bishop appointed Father Glabik as pastor, effective Sept. 1. Father Glabik previously was pastor of St. Clare Parish in Clifton, N.J. He is currently the vice chair of the Presbyteral Council and vice chair of the College of Consultors for the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey. Bishop Sweeney celebrated the Mass, which was concelebrated by several priests, including Father Robert Mitchell, a retired diocesan priest, former pastor of St. Patrick’s,

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Beyond The Beacon Episode 100: Living out your Catholic faith – Perspectives from 3 dedicated Knights #Catholic –

Join us for an inspired conversation as we delve into the heart of the Knights of Columbus, the world’s largest Catholic fraternal organization, through the lens of three dedicated Knights.

They share their perspectives and experiences of actively living out their Catholic faith through service, fraternity, and charity.

Hosted by Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish of the Diocese of Paterson.

Guests:

• Jim Sweeney, State Deputy of the New Jersey State Council Knights of Columbus, and a member of and past Grand Knight of the Father Joseph A. Cassidy Council 6100 in Budd Lake, N.J.
• Hector Jimenez, the New Jersey State Council Knights of Columbus Ethnic & Cultural Development chairman. He is also a District Deputy for the New Jersey State Council Knights of Columbus, where he is responsible for four councils in the Paterson, N.J. area. He is a member and past Grand Knight of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist Council 17254 in Paterson.
• Justin Carrasco, Field Agent for the Knights of Columbus Insurance Agency in the Paterson area, and a member of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist Council 17254.

Listen to the episode here, or on any major podcast platform, or watch it on Bishop Sweeney’s YouTube channel.

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– Join us for an inspired conversation as we delve into the heart of the Knights of Columbus, the world’s largest Catholic fraternal organization, through the lens of three dedicated Knights. They share their perspectives and experiences of actively living out their Catholic faith through service, fraternity, and charity. Hosted by Bishop Kevin Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish of the Diocese of Paterson. Guests: Jim Sweeney, State Deputy of the New Jersey State Council Knights of Columbus, and a member of and past Grand Knight of the Father Joseph A. Cassidy Council 6100 in Budd Lake, N.J. Hector Jimenez, the

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Brooklyn Franciscan brother traces his vocation to Paterson Diocese #Catholic –

For almost 20 years, Brother Gregory Cellini has shared God’s love and inspired others to live fearlessly in that love as a part of the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, N.Y., across the Hudson River from the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey.

Yet, the seeds of Brother Cellini ‘s vocation were planted in his youth in the Paterson Diocese at his home parish of St. Paul in Clifton, N.J., and with encouragement from several local priests. He attended weekly Mass at St. Paul’s with his late parents, Lucia and Ceasar, and siblings Robert, Celeste, Stephen, and Virginia. Brother Cellini, now 66, was also an altar server.

“I felt stirrings of the priesthood in high school,” said Brother Cellini. He was also influenced by the Sisters of Charity of St. Elizabeth, who taught at the former St. Paul School in Clifton, where he graduated in 1973, and the Dominican Sisters of Caldwell, who taught at Paul VI High School, also in Clifton, where he graduated in 1977. “All the sisters had love and compassion, fidelity to Christ, and joy,” he said.

Today, Brother Cellini is director of the Office of Mission, Ministry, and Interfaith Dialogue at St. Francis College. He also created and hosts Thank God For Monday, a weekly workplace talk show heard on Saturday at 8:30 a.m. (EST) on WSOU 89.5 FM, the radio station of Seton Hall University in South Orange, N.J., or at www.wsou.net. He also authored a book, “Transform Yourself —Transform the World: A Franciscan View of Career.”

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For the past two years, Brother Cellini has led Franciscan Month in October — a growing movement to invite Franciscan college students and communities to live out Franciscan spirituality. A recent Vatican News Agency story featured the initiative, which went nationwide this year and ends on Oct. 30. Franciscan Month encourages people to embrace the message of St. Francis of Assisi, the community’s founder, emphasizing peace, humility, and care for creation.

“The world is broken in many ways, and it’s the Franciscan way that can help transform it,” Brother Cellini told the Vatican News Agency. “We want people of all ages to be inspired to live a Franciscan way, not just in October, but every day of the year.”

As a youth in the Paterson Diocese, Brother Cellini was also influenced by the late Bishop Frank J. Rodimer, pastor of St. Paul’s before becoming the sixth Bishop of Paterson, and Father Richard Rento, then from St. Brendan Parish, also in Clifton. He said the priests “were committed to Christ and serving those who were poor.”

Upon graduating from Paul VI, Brother Cellini began working full-time for Hoffman-La Roche pharmaceutical company in Nutley, N.J. He earned degrees from Rutgers Graduate School of Management in New Jersey and Seton Hall University’s Stillman School of Business. Brother Cellini spent 29 years in the pharmaceutical industry before being “downsized” in 2006.

His conversion moment, however, arrived before that on May 25, 2005. Brother Cellini, an acolyte, prostrated himself in front of the tabernacle during Mass, looked at it, and said, “God, I’ve screwed this up enough. You take it over,” he said.

Before being laid off, Brother Cellini took career coaching sessions. His coach, a former Franciscan sister, said a career assessment he completed revealed his strengths lie in a religious vocation. She assigned him to visit two religious congregations. The third — the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn —seemed like a great fit.

“I loved the Franciscans’ simplicity, humility, and fraternity,” said Brother Cellini, who joined the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn in 2006.

Brother Cellini earned an advanced certificate in Franciscan Studies from St. Bonaventure University in St. Bonaventure, N.Y. Throughout his discernment, he received encouragement from Paterson priests, Father Nicholas Bozza and Msgr. Raymond Kupke, and Msgr. Paul Bochicchio, of the Newark Archdiocese in New Jersey. Brother Cellini professed his final vows in 2012 at Our Lady of Angels Church in Brooklyn.

Local Franciscan Month activities have included animal blessings. In contrast, national events this year have included daily simultaneous Eucharistic adoration uniting members of the Association of Franciscan Colleges and Universities. Also in 2025, Franciscan Media created FranciscanMonth.org, offering resources for living the Franciscan way.

Brother Cellini told BeaconNJ.org, “I’m where God wants me to be,” at St. Francis College.

“I take an interest in our college students, giving them a little perspective that could help them. I want them to see the good in themselves so they can share that good with others,” Brother Cellini said.

Click here to read the Vatican News Agency story on Franciscan Month.

 

– For almost 20 years, Brother Gregory Cellini has shared God’s love and inspired others to live fearlessly in that love as a part of the Franciscan Brothers of Brooklyn, N.Y., across the Hudson River from the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey. Yet, the seeds of Brother Cellini ‘s vocation were planted in his youth in the Paterson Diocese at his home parish of St. Paul in Clifton, N.J., and with encouragement from several local priests. He attended weekly Mass at St. Paul’s with his late parents, Lucia and Ceasar, and siblings Robert, Celeste, Stephen, and Virginia. Brother Cellini, now 66,

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Filipino priest joyfully installed as pastor of Parsippany parish #Catholic –

St. Ann Parish in Parsippany, N.J., delighted in the installation of its new pastor, Father Nico Quintos, by Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney during a Mass the bishop celebrated in the church on Oct. 25.

In May, Bishop Sweeney named Father Quintos pastor of St. Ann’s, effective July 1, while continuing as an auditor and advocate of the Marriage Tribunal of the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey and as minister to the retired senior priests. The new pastor previously served as parochial vicar of St. Philip the Apostle Parish in Clifton, N.J. Bishop Sweeney ordained him to the diocesan priesthood on Aug. 1, 2020.

Bishop Sweeney celebrated the Oct. 25 installation Mass, which was concelebrated by many fellow priests and was assisted by deacons.

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Born in Malolos City in the Province of Bulacan, Philippines, Father Quintos earned a bachelor’s degree in philosophy and communications from St. Paul Seminary in Cavite, the Philippines, in 2013 and a master’s degree in divinity and a master’s degree in moral theology from Mount St. Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, Md., in 2020.

Father Quintos is pursuing a master’s degree in professional counseling at Seton Hall University in South Orange, N.J.

“He is an engaging speaker who considers the Christian life an adventure of the most exhilarating kind and a pilgrimage that moves onward and upward. His preaching invites us on a renewed journey toward God and encourages us to deepen our relationship with Jesus,” St. Ann’s bulletin stated about Father Quintos.

– St. Ann Parish in Parsippany, N.J., delighted in the installation of its new pastor, Father Nico Quintos, by Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney during a Mass the bishop celebrated in the church on Oct. 25. In May, Bishop Sweeney named Father Quintos pastor of St. Ann’s, effective July 1, while continuing as an auditor and advocate of the Marriage Tribunal of the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey and as minister to the retired senior priests. The new pastor previously served as parochial vicar of St. Philip the Apostle Parish in Clifton, N.J. Bishop Sweeney ordained him to the diocesan priesthood on

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Young adults urged to trust God at Jubilee event in Clifton #Catholic –

People have many worries in these uncertain times — from far-reaching concerns such as increasingly polarized politics and war to personal issues such as family troubles. Sometimes, these worries lead Daisy Reyes, 27, of Holy Trinity Parish in Passaic, N.J., to ask, “Where is God in our lives?”

Reyes received God’s reassurance through the words of two clergy who spoke at the Jubilee of Young Adults of the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey at St. Andrew the Apostle Church in Clifton on the afternoon of Oct. 26. There, Father Starli Castaños, parochial vicar of the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J. urged the more than 140 participants from at least 10 young adult parish groups around the diocese to trust God. Later, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney urged the young adults to “open their hearts wide” to the Lord during a Mass he celebrated.

“Their messages showed me that God is saying to us, ‘Here I am in your lives.’ Father Starli and Bishop Sweeney challenged us to surrender to God and pray more,” said Reyes, a preschool teacher. She said the Jubilee event was a “wonderful way to connect as a young-adult community and with the bishop, our leader, who is guiding us to God.”

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Young adults from the diocese and beyond, including a few from New York, attended the Jubilee celebration. Attending were individual young adults, diocesan officials, consecrated religious, and priests who concelebrated the Mass with Bishop Sweeney. The young adult event was the final diocesan observance of the Universal Church’s Jubilee of Hope 2025, preceding the closing Mass on Dec. 28 at 3 p.m. at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson.

In his bilingual talk before the Mass, Father Castaños noted that young people worry about all types of life decisions, including about college and career.

“Also, we are all broken vessels in need of healing. Trust and surrender to the Lord in tough times. He will build you up,” Father Castaños said. He reminded participants that God will answer in his time and according to his will — not theirs. “We need to trust him so we can go out and become pilgrims of hope.”

In his homily at the bilingual Mass, Bishop Sweeney encouraged young adults to believe and trust that a life of faith as a committed disciple is an exciting “adventure,” a word first used by St. Pope John Paul II, who said, “Life with Christ is an adventure.”

Jessica Alvarez, of the young adult ministry, EPIC, at St. Anthony of Padua Parish in Passaic, N.J., and a team planned and organized the celebration. Father Jeider Barraza, pastor of St. Andrew’s, hosted the event after a last-minute venue change. Salesian Sister Theresa Lee, diocesan chancellor and delegate for religious, and Brian Honsberger, a former staff member at St. Paul’s Center for Evangelization Inside the Walls in Madison, N.J., have been organizing all of the diocesan Jubilee events.

Along with Father Charles Lana, diocesan vocations director, each young adult group on the planning team staffed an exhibitor’s table where all attending could learn more about Corazon Puro, Young Catholic Professionals (YCP-NJ), St. Paul’s, and EPIC.

In his homily, Bishop Sweeney made another reference to a life of faith as an “adventure,” this time from Pope Leo XIV’s homily at the Jubilee of Young Adults in Rome on Aug. 3.

“It is truly beautiful, especially at a young age, to open wide your hearts, to allow him [God] to enter, and to set out on this adventure with him towards eternity,” the pontiff said, according to Bishop Sweeney.

– People have many worries in these uncertain times — from far-reaching concerns such as increasingly polarized politics and war to personal issues such as family troubles. Sometimes, these worries lead Daisy Reyes, 27, of Holy Trinity Parish in Passaic, N.J., to ask, “Where is God in our lives?” Reyes received God’s reassurance through the words of two clergy who spoke at the Jubilee of Young Adults of the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey at St. Andrew the Apostle Church in Clifton on the afternoon of Oct. 26. There, Father Starli Castaños, parochial vicar of the Cathedral of St. John the

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Surrounded by nature, retired priests live active retirements in Chester #Catholic –

Usually, Father Dennis Crowley, 77, spends his day as he pleases — by himself in quiet prayer and meditation. But occasionally, this retired priest of the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey appreciates some company — from animals as well as humans.

Sometimes, Father Crowley takes breaks from prayer, watching a variety of creatures, including deer, birds, and squirrels, outside the window of his condominium at Nazareth Village, the diocesan priests’ retirement residence in Chester, N.J. He also enjoys fellowship with his nine fellow resident priests, who gather for a home-cooked meal at noon each day, and listening to their spiritual insights, largely about saints.

“I love to see the animals out here in Chester — in the woods. It’s quiet and peaceful. It’s also wonderful to have interaction with a community of other retired priests,” said Father Crowley, who moved to Nazareth Village a year and a half ago. “I love it here. My condo has a beautiful layout. The rent is reasonable, because the diocese subsidizes it.”

These ten diocesan priests who have spent a lifetime serving others live at Nazareth Village thanks to the generosity of the faithful through the Diocesan Ministries Appeal (DMA). The appeal also helps fund Catholic Charities, seminarian education, priests’ healthcare needs, including retired priests, and inner-city Catholic elementary education.

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“To my knowledge, having a place like Nazareth, where retired priests can live independently, that isn’t a church rectory or a convent, if they need it, isn’t common in other dioceses. We are proud of that at Nazareth,” said Father Brian P. Quinn, director of Nazareth Village and pastor of St. Matthew the Apostle Parish in Randolph, N.J.

Each priest-resident at Nazareth has a sitting room, bedroom, bathroom, and kitchenette. In addition, common rooms include a recreation room, library, refectory, TV room, parlors, laundry, physical therapy room, and exercise room. The staff provides the noon meal, laundry service, and housekeeping. The priests are charged a portion of their monthly pension as rent. Nazareth Village is under the direction of the diocesan Office of Clergy Personnel.

Father Crowley appreciates the spiritual heart of Nazareth: the Our Lady, Mother of Priests Chapel, which allows resident priests to celebrate Mass there. Nazareth’s location also makes it easy for priests to reach any part of the diocese where they may still serve in retirement. However, Father Crowley usually doesn’t travel outside the facility, because of his physical limitations.

In 2016, Father Crowley retired from active ministry. Incardinated into the diocese in the early 1990s, he previously was a Benedictine monk in Latrobe, Penn. Before coming to Nazareth, he lived in an apartment in Morristown.

Father Crowley said he prays for the entire diocese, including in gratitude to the DMA donors.

“We priests have lovingly and willingly given ourselves for the faithful of the diocese. Now we need them. Because of their generosity to the DMA, we can live with dignity in a safe, comfortable place. I thank the people of the diocese,” Father Crowley said.

The Diocesan Ministries Appeal supports Nazareth Village, the diocesan priests’ retirement residence in Chester, N.J. Please consider participating in the DMA. To donate or pledge online, scan the QR code or visit dopappeal.org. For more information, call 973-777-8818, ext. 215.

 

– Usually, Father Dennis Crowley, 77, spends his day as he pleases — by himself in quiet prayer and meditation. But occasionally, this retired priest of the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey appreciates some company — from animals as well as humans. Sometimes, Father Crowley takes breaks from prayer, watching a variety of creatures, including deer, birds, and squirrels, outside the window of his condominium at Nazareth Village, the diocesan priests’ retirement residence in Chester, N.J. He also enjoys fellowship with his nine fellow resident priests, who gather for a home-cooked meal at noon each day, and listening to their spiritual

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Hispanic ministry directors conference hears from Paterson officials #Catholic –

Two Spanish-speaking officials from the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey spoke at this year’s annual conference of the National Catholic Association of Diocesan Directors of Hispanic Ministry (NCADDHM), held in Newark, N.J., from Oct. 21 to 24. The theme was “Walking with Joy. Anchored in Hope,” inspired by the Universal Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope 2025.

Maria Moncaleano, director of Hispanic Ministry in Paterson, gave a speech welcoming the participants on Tuesday, Oct. 21. She is NCADDHM’s vice president, chairperson of the conference planning committee, and is a representative of Episcopal Region 3 of New Jersey and Pennsylvania.

Freddy Garcia, Paterson Diocesan associate coordinator of evangelization and a campus minister, spoke about “Communion, Participation, and Mission: The Path of the Young Adult” on the conference’s third day, Oct. 23.

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“I shared my personal story about how I embraced a life of faith in my young adulthood and grew committed to the mission of the Church,” Garcia told BeaconNJ.org after the conference. “The goal in the end was to offer insights on how to achieve objectives from the National Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry, specifically regarding young adults, Hispanic and Latino.”

Of the conference’s 265 participants, 14 were bishops and 30 were priests, along with religious, and young adults, including several faithful from the Paterson Diocese. Episcopal Region delegates came from the Newark Archdiocese, Paterson Diocese, Metuchen Diocese, and Trenton Diocese in New Jersey and the Allentown Diocese and Harrisburg Diocese in Pennsylvania.

Dr. Gerardo Salazar, NCADDHM’s COR manager, called this year’s event “the best attended conference in the last 33 years.”

One attendee from Paterson, Father Cesar Jaramillo, pastor of Holy Spirit Parish in Pequannock, N.J., posted about the national gathering on social media, “Feeling inspired and encouraged by such a cloud of wonderful witnesses and amazing presenters at this year’s conference.”

NCADDHM’s purpose is to create a collaborative ministry. The association engages in reflection and planning of Hispanic ministry. It provides continuing formation for diocesan directors serving in the United States.

[See image gallery at beaconnj.org] – Two Spanish-speaking officials from the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey spoke at this year’s annual conference of the National Catholic Association of Diocesan Directors of Hispanic Ministry (NCADDHM), held in Newark, N.J., from Oct. 21 to 24. The theme was “Walking with Joy. Anchored in Hope,” inspired by the Universal Church’s Jubilee Year of Hope 2025. Maria Moncaleano, director of Hispanic Ministry in Paterson, gave a speech welcoming the participants on Tuesday, Oct. 21. She is NCADDHM’s vice president, chairperson of the conference planning committee, and is a representative of Episcopal Region 3 of New Jersey and Pennsylvania. Freddy Garcia,

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Watch: New Diocesan Ministries Appeal Video  #Catholic –

So many good works of charity by the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey are taking place every day in God’s name all over the three counties it covers: Passaic, Morris, and Sussex.

A new video promoting the 2025 Diocesan Ministries Appeal (DMA) asks diocesan faithful to contribute by highlighting the many programs and ministries that serve the Church of Paterson’s diverse population. Guided by this year’s theme, “Three Counties — One Family of Faith,” the DMA supports Catholic Charities, which cares for people in need; retired priests; seminarian education; and urban Catholic education.

In words, images, and video clips, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney narrates a guided virtual tour of some of the diocese’s charitable works in each county. They include Catholic Charities programs such as the Partnership for Social Services in Sussex, the Fix It Program in Morris, and the Father English Food Pantry in Passaic, set to reopen soon after extensive renovations.

In the video, Bishop Sweeney says, “In my five years as bishop, I’ve been privileged to see the life-saving work that takes place every day, supported by the Diocesan Ministries Appeal.”

“Your gift to the Diocesan Ministries Appeal will help make dozens of unique and important programs and ministries available in our three counties. I ask for your generous support. Thank you for helping me make the Diocese of Paterson a shining example of God’s love and compassion. Simply put, I cannot do it without you,” Bishop Sweeney says in the video.

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– So many good works of charity by the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey are taking place every day in God’s name all over the three counties it covers: Passaic, Morris, and Sussex. A new video promoting the 2025 Diocesan Ministries Appeal (DMA) asks diocesan faithful to contribute by highlighting the many programs and ministries that serve the Church of Paterson’s diverse population. Guided by this year’s theme, “Three Counties — One Family of Faith,” the DMA supports Catholic Charities, which cares for people in need; retired priests; seminarian education; and urban Catholic education. In words, images, and video clips, Bishop

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Before Nov. 4 election, N.J. bishops call voting a spiritual responsibility #Catholic –

Ahead of the upcoming election, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney of the Paterson Diocese has joined his fellow Catholic bishops of New Jersey in releasing a new collaborative video about the Church’s teaching on “Faithful Citizenship.” The bishops emphasize that voting is not just a civic duty but a spiritual responsibility for Catholics in the three-and-a-half-minute video.

The bishops’ message states, “God calls each of us as Catholics to further the work of his kingdom. One important way we can promote good values in our communities and in our nation is by participating in the political process. If you do not bring God’s voice into the voting booth and the decisions shaping our country, who will?”

In the video, each bishop voiced a different part of the message while all endorsing it. In addition to Bishop Sweeney, the participating bishops are Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., archbishop of the Newark Archdiocese, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., of the Trenton Diocese, Coadjutor Archbishop James F. Checchio, of the New Orleans Archdiocese and the administrator of the Metuchen Diocese, and Bishop Joseph A. Williams of the Camden Diocese.

This video is the second Faithful Citizenship video project sponsored by the New Jersey Catholic Conference.

 

James King, executive director, explained the project’s ongoing purpose: “With the Nov. 4 election fast approaching — and with New Jersey voters preparing to cast ballots that will elect a new governor, members of the General Assembly as well as several local municipal and school board elections — the bishops used this moment to remind Catholics of their obligation to participate in the democratic process.”

“Additionally, the bishops remind the faithful that it is not the Church’s place to tell them how to vote,” King said. “Each of us has the right — and the responsibility — to follow our conscience, shaped by Scripture and the Church’s wisdom.”

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King said the message is not only about voting and preparing to vote, but a call to action for all Catholics to help bring civility back to our political process.

“Unfortunately, today, we see how political division has affected our society. Catholics are not immune to the effects of political division; too many of us allow our politics to shape our faith when our faith should shape our politics. We must remember that Christ calls us to be peacemakers.”

The bishops offer two key resources at https://njcatholic.org to help Catholics prepare to vote and bring civility back to political discourse. They are:

• Civilize It: A call to bring civility, compassion, and clarity to public discourse, following the example of the Good Samaritan.
• Faithful Citizenship: A practical guide offering “dos and don’ts” during election season, including how to register, where to vote, and how to evaluate candidates and issues through a moral lens.

The video closes with a simple but powerful call to action: “Your voice matters in New Jersey. Let us vote for what is good, what is true, and what builds a better future — for you, your family, and our neighbors. May God bless you.”

The video is available in English and with Spanish captioning. It has been distributed to the diocesan media outlets in New Jersey. Watch the full video here. To access voter resources, visit https://njcatholic.org.

 

– Ahead of the upcoming election, Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney of the Paterson Diocese has joined his fellow Catholic bishops of New Jersey in releasing a new collaborative video about the Church’s teaching on “Faithful Citizenship.” The bishops emphasize that voting is not just a civic duty but a spiritual responsibility for Catholics in the three-and-a-half-minute video. The bishops’ message states, “God calls each of us as Catholics to further the work of his kingdom. One important way we can promote good values in our communities and in our nation is by participating in the political process. If you do not

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Morristown convocation helps chart future of diocesan Hispanic ministry #Catholic –

About 150 pastors and pastoral leaders serving Hispanic Catholics in the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey gathered on Oct. 18 for diocesan Hispanic Ministry Convocation at St. Mary’s Abbey on the Delbarton School’s campus in Morristown, N.J. They united to help chart the future of Hispanic ministry in the diocese.

Hosffman Ospino, professor of Hispanic ministry and religious education and chair of the Department of Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry at the Clough School of Theology and Ministry at Boston College, led the synodal gathering. He has served as a consultant to help develop a process leading to a Pastoral Plan for Hispanic Ministry in the Paterson Diocese, working alongside Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, diocesan officials, and an advisory team.

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Presided by Bishop Sweeney, the convocation brought together representatives from parishes, diocesan offices, Catholic schools, apostolic movements, and other ministerial entities serving Hispanic Catholics. The goal of the gathering was to confirm the scope of the diocese’s ministry priorities for Hispanics identified to date and generate energy, commitment, and investment for the next three to five years. Nearly half of Catholics in the diocese self-identify as Hispanic.

The process of developing those priorities was built on the insights learned through the Fifth National Encuentro of Hispanic/Latino Ministry (2018), also known as V Encuentro, and the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ 2023 National Pastoral Plan for Hispanic/Latino Ministry. This process resulted in a practical and engaging pastoral plan that is attentive to the most pressing needs associated with the pastoral accompaniment of Hispanic Catholics. The pastoral plan was developed through various levels of consultation and analysis — a synodal process.

At 12:30 p.m. on Oct. 18, participants in the Hispanic Ministry Convocation joined those in the diocese for the Jubilee of Catechists, held on the same day at Delbarton, for a shared Mass in the church.

– About 150 pastors and pastoral leaders serving Hispanic Catholics in the Paterson Diocese in New Jersey gathered on Oct. 18 for diocesan Hispanic Ministry Convocation at St. Mary’s Abbey on the Delbarton School’s campus in Morristown, N.J. They united to help chart the future of Hispanic ministry in the diocese. Hosffman Ospino, professor of Hispanic ministry and religious education and chair of the Department of Religious Education and Pastoral Ministry at the Clough School of Theology and Ministry at Boston College, led the synodal gathering. He has served as a consultant to help develop a process leading to a Pastoral

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Beyond The Beacon Episode 99: How your gift powers hope across the three counties of the diocese #Catholic –

How can a food pantry in one of the most impoverished cities in New Jersey feed 22,000 people each month? What does it take to empower the staff and volunteers of a drug and alcohol treatment center that helps hundreds of people in recovery every day? These questions and more are at the center of the latest episode of Beyond The Beacon.

Tim Potter and Scott Milliken are the guests on this episode, which explores how the annual Diocesan Ministries Appeal is having a significant impact on many lives across the three counties of the Diocese of Paterson. 

Potter is chief development officer for the Diocese of Paterson, and Milliken is chief executive officer of Catholic Charities of the Diocese of Paterson. They join co-hosts Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish.

The annual Diocesan Ministries Appeal funds seminary education, priest retirement and health care needs, Catholic Urban Education, and Catholic Charities. Learn more by listening or watching!

Listen to the episode here, or on any major podcast platform, or watch it on Bishop Sweeney’s YouTube channel.

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– How can a food pantry in one of the most impoverished cities in New Jersey feed 22,000 people each month? What does it take to empower the staff and volunteers of a drug and alcohol treatment center that helps hundreds of people in recovery every day? These questions and more are at the center of the latest episode of Beyond The Beacon. Tim Potter and Scott Milliken are the guests on this episode, which explores how the annual Diocesan Ministries Appeal is having a significant impact on many lives across the three counties of the Diocese of Paterson.  Potter is

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Faithful honored for distinguished service with Vivere Christus Award #Catholic –

The Paterson Diocese in New Jersey recognized 64 individuals, couples, and families in appreciation for their outstanding service to the Church and the world with the Vivere Christus Award. Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney thanked the recipients for their “generosity of time, talent, and treasure” as he presided at the awards ceremony in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J., on Oct. 19.

Families, friends, fellow parishioners, priests, and religious filled St. John’s to watch the honorees receive this special award — a brass medal, three inches in diameter. The medal is embossed with the Latin inscription “Vivere Christus Est,” meaning “To live is Christ.” Recipients were nominated by their parishes.

“Today, we celebrate missionaries and mission with the Universal Church,” Bishop Sweeney said in his homily. He made a pastoral connection between the local Vivere Christus ceremony and a Mass the diocese held that day for World Mission Sunday. He told the award recipients, “The harvest is rich and the laborers are few. We’re so grateful for the generosity of time, talent, and treasure of so many throughout our diocese.”

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During the ceremony, Bishop Sweeney blessed the awards. Salesian Sister Theresa Lee, diocesan chancellor and delegate to religious, assisted the bishop with distributing the awards, while Miriam Perez called the names of each recipient and their nominating parish to come forward to receive their medals. The Diocesan Office of Worship coordinated the event.

After the ceremony, award recipients enjoyed an opportunity to take a photo with Bishop Sweeney and a reception.

Bishop Emeritus Arthur J. Serratelli created the award in 2009.

Many parishes announced their Vivere Christus recipients in their bulletins, praising them for their dedication to their faith communities and the Church. Our Lady of Mount Carmel (OLMC) Parish in the Swartwood neighborhood of Stillwater Township, called its recipient, Tom Rivara, “one of our most reliable ushers at the 7:30 a.m. Mass, a role he fulfills faithfully each week.”

“He’s also become something of a parish handyman, generously offering his time and skills to assist with maintenance and repairs around our buildings and grounds,” according to OLMC’s bulletin. “Tom’s dedication is quiet but constant. He’s always ready to lend a hand wherever needed. We are deeply grateful to Tom and to his family for their active presence and for the many ways they share their time and talents to serve our community.”

– The Paterson Diocese in New Jersey recognized 64 individuals, couples, and families in appreciation for their outstanding service to the Church and the world with the Vivere Christus Award. Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney thanked the recipients for their “generosity of time, talent, and treasure” as he presided at the awards ceremony in the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J., on Oct. 19. Families, friends, fellow parishioners, priests, and religious filled St. John’s to watch the honorees receive this special award — a brass medal, three inches in diameter. The medal is embossed with the Latin inscription “Vivere

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Totowa Mass honors missionaries helping world’s poor #Catholic –

The Paterson Diocese in New Jersey celebrated a Jubilee of Missionaries on Oct. 19 at St. James of the Marches Parish in Totowa, N.J., as part of the diocese’s annual World Mission Sunday Mass. He led the diocese in thanking and praying for missionaries, priests, laity, and consecrated persons for spreading the Gospel around the world, including to the most vulnerable and impoverished.

Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney was the main celebrant and homilist of the Mass. Concelebrating the liturgy were many priests, including Father Marc Mancini, pastor of St. James and a diocesan judicial vicar, as well as missionary priests who have served God’s people in countries around the world. Religious sisters from the diocese also attended.

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Mila Burdeos, diocesan mission director, coordinates the local World Mission Sunday Mass. The diocese, through the Mission Office, organizes activities to encourage and inspire the faithful to offer prayer and financial sacrifices to support the Church’s ongoing missionary works. A reception in the parish hall followed the Mass.

The Jubilee of Missionaries was among the many events the diocese has been hosting for the Universal Church’s Jubilee of Hope 2025.

World Mission Sunday was initiated in 1822 by Blessed Pauline Jaricot, who founded the Society for the Propagation of the Faith 200 years ago. This organization serves as a network of prayer and coordinates the collection of pennies for missionaries. Her work led to World Mission Sunday, which helps the Pope support missionary activity. This universal fund provided help to the new and growing churches in the United States.

– The Paterson Diocese in New Jersey celebrated a Jubilee of Missionaries on Oct. 19 at St. James of the Marches Parish in Totowa, N.J., as part of the diocese’s annual World Mission Sunday Mass. He led the diocese in thanking and praying for missionaries, priests, laity, and consecrated persons for spreading the Gospel around the world, including to the most vulnerable and impoverished. Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney was the main celebrant and homilist of the Mass. Concelebrating the liturgy were many priests, including Father Marc Mancini, pastor of St. James and a diocesan judicial vicar, as well as missionary priests

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Bishop Sweeney appointment of deans: Oct. 2025 #Catholic –

Bishop Sweeney has appointed the following priests to serve at dean upon the expiration of the previous dean’s term, due to reelection to a second term, or due to a vacancy because of a transfer of a pastor outside of the deanery. All of the appointments were effective by Oct. 1, 2025.

Clifton:

Father Jeider Barraza

Passaic:

Father Rolands Uribe

North Passaic:

Father Greg Golba

Eastern Morris:

Father Vidal Gonzales

Northeast Morris:

Father Darwin Lastra

Western Morris:

Father Sean McDonnell

Sussex (West & East):

Father A. Richard Carton

– Bishop Sweeney has appointed the following priests to serve at dean upon the expiration of the previous dean’s term, due to reelection to a second term, or due to a vacancy because of a transfer of a pastor outside of the deanery. All of the appointments were effective by Oct. 1, 2025. Clifton: Father Jeider Barraza Passaic: Father Rolands Uribe North Passaic: Father Greg Golba Eastern Morris: Father Vidal Gonzales Northeast Morris: Father Darwin Lastra Western Morris: Father Sean McDonnell Sussex (West & East): Father A. Richard Carton

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Assumption Knights honor charitable service that uplifts poor people #Catholic –

The Knights of Columbus Council 359 of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Morristown, N.J., on Oct. 11 held their 11th Annual Mass and Dinner of Appreciation to recognize two community leaders.

The knights honored Dave Scott, also known as G. David Scott, executive director of the Market Street Mission in Morristown from 1989 to 2024. Mission has provided meals, shelter, and hope to thousands who are homeless, hungry, and struggling with addiction through the power of Christ and the support of the community. Under his leadership, the staff grew from a few members to nearly 80.

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That night, the knights also recognized Mike Bannon, a past grand knight, a significant contributor to the council, and a recognized leader in the community. He was recently named grand marshal of the 2026 Morris County St. Patrick’s Day Parade. Bannon is a member and former president of the Friendly Sons of St. Patrick of Morris County and the Irish-American Association of Northwest Jersey. Retired, he is also an ardent volunteer, involved with DAWN Center for Independent Living and ARC Morris.

Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney celebrated a Mass in Assumption Church. Concelebrating were Msgr. John E. Hart, the pastor of the parish, and Father Krzysztof Tyszko, parochial vicar of Assumption. Joining them were Father Thomas Fallone, pastor of St. Thomas More Parish in the Convent Station neighborhood of Morris Township, N.J., and Father Daniel Chajkowski, a chaplain at Morristown Medical Center in Morristown who lives at St Thomas. Assumption and St. Thomas support Knights of Columbus Council 359.

After the Mass, a Dinner of Appreciation was held at Spring Brook Country Club, also in Morristown. The event raised funds for the more than 35 charities the knights support.

“The evening was a tremendous success. The event honored Dave Scott, Mike Bannon, and the outstanding charitable service of the Assumption knights to people who are poor and needy,” Msgr. Hart said.

– The Knights of Columbus Council 359 of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Parish in Morristown, N.J., on Oct. 11 held their 11th Annual Mass and Dinner of Appreciation to recognize two community leaders. The knights honored Dave Scott, also known as G. David Scott, executive director of the Market Street Mission in Morristown from 1989 to 2024. Mission has provided meals, shelter, and hope to thousands who are homeless, hungry, and struggling with addiction through the power of Christ and the support of the community. Under his leadership, the staff grew from a few members to nearly 80. Click

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Paterson delegate to lead women’s religious order in U.S. #Catholic –

Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney visited the Daughters of Charity of the Most Precious Blood of Paterson, N.J., to install Sister Regi Varghese as the delegate leading the congregation in the United States during a Mass he celebrated on Oct. 13. She will serve a three-year term as delegate.

In Paterson, 10 members of the Daughters of Charity of the Most Precious Blood sponsor and operate St. Joseph’s Rest Home, a nonprofit, State-Licensed residential facility for senior women, and St. Michael’s Junior Day Nursery for children aged 3 to 5 years old.

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Bishop Sweeney was the main celebrant and homilist of the Mass. The concelebrants were Father Charles Waller, a retired diocesan priest and chaplain to the sisters; Msgr. George Hundt, pastor of St. Gerard Majella and Our Lady of Pompei parishes, both in Paterson; Father Marc Mancini, pastor of St. James of the Marches Parish in Totowa, N.J.; Father Manuel Alejandro Cuellar, parochial vicar of St. Gerard Majella and Our Lady of Pompei; and Father Erasmus Okere, parochial vicar of Blessed Sacrament/St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Newark, N.J. These priests were joined by Father Simmy Thomas, the parish vicar of St. George Syro-Malabar Catholic Church, also in Paterson.

The Daughters of Charity of the Most Precious Blood have 17 members in the United States, including locations in New York and Connecticut. Thomas Marie Fusco established the congregation in 1873 in Pagani, Italy. The sisters’ apostolate encompasses the care of orphans, vulnerable children, the sick, and the elderly, as well as the education of the youth.

– Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney visited the Daughters of Charity of the Most Precious Blood of Paterson, N.J., to install Sister Regi Varghese as the delegate leading the congregation in the United States during a Mass he celebrated on Oct. 13. She will serve a three-year term as delegate. In Paterson, 10 members of the Daughters of Charity of the Most Precious Blood sponsor and operate St. Joseph’s Rest Home, a nonprofit, State-Licensed residential facility for senior women, and St. Michael’s Junior Day Nursery for children aged 3 to 5 years old. Click here to subscribe to our weekly newsletter. Bishop

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Beyond The Beacon Episode 98: Youth ministry’s impact – How it forms a strong Catholic faith #Catholic –

Is youth ministry just pizza and retreats? Think again. We dive deep into the vital role Catholic youth ministry plays in forming lifelong faith. Featuring insightful interviews with seasoned youth ministers, we explore the powerful impact of youth ministry—not just on attendance, but on how it actively develops and strengthens a strong, authentic Catholic identity in young people. Hear some strategies for connecting with teens and navigating modern challenges. If you want to know what works in building the Church’s future, this episode is a must-listen.

Joining Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for this episode is:

• John Cammarata. Director of Youth Ministry for the Diocese of Paterson;  and Director of Religious Education/Youth Ministry at St. Peter the Apostle Church in Parsippany, N.J.
• Alyssa Carolan. Director of Faith Formation & Youth Ministry at St. John Vianney Parish in the Stockholm neighborhood of Hardyston, N.J., and St. Thomas the Apostle in the Oak Ridge neighborhood of Jefferson, N.J.
• Yadira Sifonte. Youth Minister at The Catholic Community of St. Brendan & St. George, in Clifton, N.J.
• Justin Carrasco. Director of Young Prophets at the Cathedral of St. John the Baptist in Paterson, N.J.

Listen to the episode here, or on any major podcast platform, or watch it on Bishop Sweeney’s YouTube channel.

– Is youth ministry just pizza and retreats? Think again. We dive deep into the vital role Catholic youth ministry plays in forming lifelong faith. Featuring insightful interviews with seasoned youth ministers, we explore the powerful impact of youth ministry—not just on attendance, but on how it actively develops and strengthens a strong, authentic Catholic identity in young people. Hear some strategies for connecting with teens and navigating modern challenges. If you want to know what works in building the Church’s future, this episode is a must-listen. Joining Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney and Communications Director Jai Agnish for this episode is:

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More than 1,000 find hope during Passaic rosary procession #Catholic –

As a statue of the Blessed Mother passed through the city streets of Passaic, N.J., for five miles, Catholics found a moment of hope. On Oct. 10, more than 1,000 people from all eight Catholic churches in the city participated in a rosary procession. This annual tradition takes place in the Passaic during October, the Month of the Holy Rosary. This year’s procession marked the first time Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney joined the walk at Bishop Paterson.

The procession began at St. Anthony of Padua Church. It ended at the Diocesan Shrine of St. John Paul II/Holy Rosary Church with stops at five other Catholic churches in the city. They were Holy Trinity, St. Joseph, St. Mary of the Assumption, Our Lady of Fatima/St. Nicholas and St. Stephen.

All four mysteries of the rosary — Joyful, Glorious, Sorrowful, and Luminous — were recited with prayers in English, Spanish, Polish, and Hungarian, reflecting the diversity of the city, which is historically known as a first dwelling place for immigrants coming to the United States.

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People of all ages walked— from mothers holding their infants to older individuals walking with canes.

Hundreds participated in the procession throughout the city for almost three hours. Many stood on the sidewalk and from their homes, looking out their windows and from their front steps to see the procession.

On a mountain of white flowers, a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe stood on the bed of a pickup truck. Each parish also carried statues of the Blessed Mother along with banners with the name of the parish.

– As a statue of the Blessed Mother passed through the city streets of Passaic, N.J., for five miles, Catholics found a moment of hope. On Oct. 10, more than 1,000 people from all eight Catholic churches in the city participated in a rosary procession. This annual tradition takes place in the Passaic during October, the Month of the Holy Rosary. This year’s procession marked the first time Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney joined the walk at Bishop Paterson. The procession began at St. Anthony of Padua Church. It ended at the Diocesan Shrine of St. John Paul II/Holy Rosary Church with

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