Weekly Letter from the Pastor

Dear Fellow Parishioners of St. Benedict:

This weekend we celebrate the Solemnity of the Exaltation of the Holy Cross. This feast, which dates back to the year 336, draws our focus to the power of the Sign of the Cross in our prayer, and as an important symbol in our churches, our homes, and as a part of our regular attire. The cross has become a common symbol now worn merely as jewelry, even by non-believers. We are reminded that the cross is not merely adornment, but a powerful symbol and statement of our faith that the cross of Jesus Christ is the source of our salvation.

We have come through a successful first week of school, and we are all pleased at how well things are going so far. There is always a glitch or two, but for the most part, all is running well.

I am happy to announce that two positions have been filled in the parish, and both by members of the parish, which is good for continuity and staying on message.

First, Gina Ciancio is our new Director of Marketing. With nearly a decade of experience specializing in marketing, communications, digital content, video production, event management, and community relations, Gina brings a wealth of knowledge and creativity to our Church and School. She is the proud parent of two SBS students. We are excited to have her on board and look forward to the contributions she will make to our community.

Also, Timothy Hoye, a member of the Knights of Columbus, the OCIA team, and the St. Vincent de Paul Society, assumes thepart-time role of Coordinator of Youth and Young Adult Ministry with the Faith Formation team. Tim brings 25 years of professional experience from major New York law firms. He has also served as an instructor for the Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults at St. Benedict Church and as a Case Worker with St. Vincent de Paul.

We are happy to have them both on-board and working beginning this Monday.

This week the priests of our diocese meet in convocation, for a few days of recollection, and renewal. Father Kevin O’Neil,C.Ss.R., will be the presenter. As Father Adam and I will be away from Tuesday PM until Thursday PM, we are unable to offer daily Mass here on Wednesday or Thursday morning. Unfortunately there are no priests available to assist. A Communion Service will be offered each day. Intentions previously scheduled for these dates will be rescheduled.

I know that the school year is just beginning, but the Catholic high schools in the area are offering their open houses in the next few weeks and students should be prepared to take the entrance or placement exams for those schools in early November. Please check the websites for St. John Vianney HS, Red Bank Catholic HS, Christian Brothers Academy, Trinity Hall, or St. Thomas Aquinas HS for more details and information. It is never too early, and does indeed become too late for admission there.

Please return raffle tickets as soon as possible. The drawing is on September 28.

I hope everyone has a safe and enjoyable week ahead,

Blessings,
Fr. Garry