Weekly Letter from the Pastor

Everything is moving along quickly now as we look forward to the opening of school next week. Plans and contingencies are in place, we are well-staffed, and our enrollment has increased again this year. Mrs. Gallagher, our principal, and her team of Mr. Lamb and Mrs. Mackin have worked hard this summer to ensure that this school year is even better than last. 

Many schools open this week. We pray for the success of our students and their teachers and administrative teams in serving the best for our students.

Speaking of schools, it is becoming increasingly likely that New Jersey will be implementing a version of a school choice policy. The details are not yet ironed out, but this should be up again in this administrative session. Governor Sherrill has not indicated her intention for the bill. However, as both New York and Pennsylvania seem ready to move in this direction, the expectation is that New Jersey will follow along. I will keep you posted here, so that when the time is appropriate, we can petition the legislators and the Governor for an affirmative vote for this bill.

Speaking of all the legislature here, there is much being said about S2260 and Pro-Life Activities in New Jersey. News reporting has exaggerated the extent of this law, yet it remains a serious issue. Bishop O’Connell has written a clarification letter which will appear in next week’s bulletin.

This past week retired Deacon Ray Pelkowski celebrated his 97th birthday! Deacon Ray asked me to send his best wishes to everyone and to thank you for your prayers. Although he does not really go out, he is still doing well. Our prayers are with him.

Through the Faith Formation Office we are expanding the Marriage and Family Ministry. There are several new events planned throughout the year focusing on building family connections. Along with that, beginning in October, Lori McCahill will be leading a newly formatted baptismal preparation program.  Through joint efforts between the school and the parish, we are launching more community building events, which you will be learning about throughout the year. These will provide opportunities for all the members of the St. Benedict parish community to get together and enjoy hospitality and fellowship, while also providing additional resources for the enhancement of our programs and facilities. 

The energy is beginning to build around the opening of school.

I hope everyone has a blessed and safe week ahead. Enjoy the Labor Day festivities next weekend.

Blessings,
Father Garry