Back up and running!

09-20-2020From Fr. Antony's DeskFr. John Barbella

It’s good to see that some things are getting back up and running in our parish. I have taught a few classes at school, and it’s really great to see the students, both in class and online. Of course, just like at Church, all kinds of precautions are taken for safety, which is simply what has to be done at this time!

By this point, public school children in our parish should be registered for CCD. As you have read here, we are offering a completely online at home option for CCD this year. The other option is to pick up your child’s CCD books to work on at home. Mrs. Scott, our faithful Director of Religious Education, will be happy to assist you and answer any questions you may have. You can reach her through the Parish Office at 908-454-0112.

Confirmation students (8th grade) can find everything they need on the parish website (spsj.org). Go to the section labeled FORMATION, then go to Confirmation Prep. You can find a letter about Confirmation, watch the Confirmation Meeting, see the class schedule, and learn what to do if you want to attend class remotely.

Confirmation parents or students can call me or our Confirmation Coordinator, Escarlen Duran, at the parish office with any questions they may have. Escarlen is fluent in both Spanish & English, for those who do better in Spanish. She and I will both be happy to help you prepare for Confirmation this year.

Speaking of things getting back up and running, Deacon Rob is going to be starting a Bible Study on the Biblical Roots of the Mass. It will be help in Mercy Hall where it is easy to achieve social distancing, beginning on Thursday, October 8th from 7-8:30pm. More information can be found elsewhere in this bulletin under the heading ‘Feeling Lost at Holy Mass? You can also call Deacon Rob at 908- 319-1917 for more information.

Remember that October 4th is the Feast of St. Francis of Assisi. As usual, we will have a Blessing of Animals in the parking lot next to Mercy Hall at 12:15pm that day. Fr. Patrick Boyle, OFM – our regular weekend assistant-will be the celebrant. He is himself a Franciscan Father and one of the many priestly vocations from our parish.

There will also be a Life Chain on So. Main St. on October 4th. As per usual, people will not actually make a chain but will stand (or sit) at intervals of at least 6 feet along the sidewalk to pray quietly. Watch the bulletin for more information.

As always, I ask you to pray a Hail Mary for me each day. You are in my prayers, especially my Masses and Rosaries every day. Let’s keep praying for the sick, an end to this pandemic, and for peace and healing in our country.

Have a great week!

Fr. John

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