Our Mission Guided by the Gospel and strengthened by the

 The Sacrament of Matrimony
To celebrate the Sacrament of Matrimony, please
contact the Parish Office to make arrangements at least
one year prior to the intended date of the wedding.
Marriage preparation includes attending Pre-Cana and
sessions with the priest or deacon.
Our Mission
Guided by the Gospel and strengthened by the
Eucharist, we the Catholic people of St. Benedict
worship God with joy, excitement and commitment. We
welcome and reach out to each other and those beyond
our community. Challenged by our call to stewardship we
strive to receive God’s gifts gratefully; nurture God’s gifts
responsibly; share God’s gifts generously and return
God’s gifts with increase. Living our faith in Jesus Christ,
we spread the Good News by providing hope, spirituality,
education, hospitality and social justice.
Very Reverend Daniel F. Swift, VF, Pastor
Reverend Daniel E. Kirk, STL, Associate Pastor
Deacon Richard L. Morris, Permanent Deacon
Deacon Raymond R. Pelkowski, Permanent Deacon
Deacon Stephen G. Scott, Permanent Deacon
Parish Office
Office Hours: Monday to Friday
9:00 a.m. – 4:00 p.m.
Voice: 732/264-4712; Facsimile: 732/264-9080
Mrs. Lorrie McGee, Administrative Assistant
email: [email protected]
Mrs. Eileen Cannarozzo, Administrative Assistant
email: [email protected]
Mrs. Margaret Roddy, Administrative Assistant
email: [email protected]
Mr. Bob Cognat, Facilities Manager
Mr. Tony Malone, Business and Finance Manager
Mrs. Jennifer DeBiase, IT & Help Desk Manager
Mrs. Lori Ulrich, Minister of Evangelization and Marketing
Masses
Saturday Vigil: 5:00 p.m.
Sunday: 8:00, 9:30, 11:00 a.m. and 12:30 p.m.
Monday - Saturday: 9:00 a.m.
The Sacrament of Baptism
The Sacrament of Baptism is celebrated on the second
and fourth Sundays of the month at 2:00 p.m. Parents
must attend a Baptismal Preparation Class at any
Catholic Church. Baptismal Preparation Classes are
held at St. Benedict on the first Monday of the month at
7:30 p.m. in the Father Anderson Library. Godparents
must obtain a sponsor eligibility certificate verifying they
are practicing Catholics who have been confirmed. A
date for Baptism will not be confirmed before sponsor
eligibility certificates are received at the Parish Office.
The Sacrament of Reconciliation
First Friday: following the 9:00 a.m. Mass.
Every Saturday: 4:00 – 4:30 p.m. and by appointment.
165 Bethany Road
St. Benedict School
St. Benedict School is staffed by a state certified lay
faculty, and has earned Middle States Accreditation.
They provide Catholic education from kindergarten
through eighth grade, as well as an extended day
program.
Voice: 732/264-5578; Facsimile: 732/264-8679
Ms. Mary Ellen Lilly, Principal
Mrs. Francine DeMuria, Administra ve Assistant
email: [email protected]
Mrs. Monica Hurni, Administra ve Assistant
email: [email protected]
Religious Education
The Religious Education Program provides religious
formation and sacramental preparation for children from
first through eighth grade.
Mrs. Denise Contino, Director of Religious Educa on
email: [email protected]
Mrs. Carol Cesario, Administra ve Assistant
email: [email protected]
Catholic Youth Organizations (CYO)
The Junior CYO is open to all students in Grades 6-8 for
monthly meetings, as well as social and service
activities. The High School CYO is open to all students
in Grades 9-12 for monthly meetings, as well as social
and service activities. Mrs. Lori McCahill, CYO Minister
Voice: 732/264-4712, ext. 27
email: [email protected]
Music Ministry
The Contemporary Choir sings every Sunday at
11:00 a.m. Mass and rehearses on Tuesday at
8:00 p.m. in the Choir Room. The Youth Choir sings at
every Children’s Mass (offered approximately once a
month) at the 9:30 a.m. Mass and rehearses on Friday
at 4:00 p.m. in Church. To audition for the
Contemporary Choir, please contact Tom O’Brien, Choir
Director at 908/601-4366. If you are interested in the
Youth Choir, please contact Ellen Remick, Choir
Director at 732/888-1828.
Ministry to the Sick and Homebound
Please contact the Parish Office to request pastoral
visits to those who are sick either at home, Bayshore
Community Hospital or a local nursing home.
Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion are
available to bring Holy Communion on a regular basis.
St. Vincent dePaul Society
A social ministry SVdP provides spiritual, food
distribution, emergency financial and other services to
those in need. For questions or to volunteer contact
Patti Dickens – [email protected]. For emergency
assistance, please contact 732/264-4712, ext. 33, leave
a message and your call will be returned.
Holmdel, New Jersey 07733
www.stbenedictnj.org
FOURTH SUNDAY OF ADVENT
DECEMBER 21, 2014
Saturday, December 27th
9:00 a.m.
Packie McCabe
req. The McGowan Family
Mary O’Neill req. The Malone Family
Kevin Martin req. The Martin Family
MASS INTENTIONS FOR THE WEEK
Saturday, December 20th
9:00 a.m.
Pro Populo1
Patricia Sweeney
req. Mary Reardon and Family
Maryann Altobelli
req. The Armstrong Family
5:00 p.m.
5:00 p.m.
Sunday, December 28th
8:00 a.m.
Frank Sartiano req. The Sartiano Family
9:30 a.m.
Carlie White req. Family
11:00 a.m.
Charlotte and Daniel Vassallo
req. The Vassallo Family
12:30 p.m.
Salvatore Trentacoste
req. Mr. and Mrs. Scott McBride
Joseph Tropea
req. Dominic and Marie Tropea
Sunday, December 21st
8:00 a.m.
Mary Freeman
req. Jim and Marion Manning
9:30 a.m.
Robert Swift req. Josephine Hoffman
11:00 a.m.
Lee Steiner
req. Glenn and Michele Puzo
12:30 p.m.
Pro Populo
Prayer Intentions
Please pray for the sick, the homebound and those who
have requested us to remember them in prayer,
especially: Bishop O’Connell, Paula Abel, Catherine
Anderson, Dino Angelli, Jennifer Aquiline, Margaret
Arbuthnot, Carol Armanno, Diana Armenakis, Carol
Atzingen, Doris Bachlet, Karl and Carla Baer, Bob Bark,
Maureen Barry, Gloria Bebel, Syndi Bedle, Elizabeth
Begin, Maureen Bender, Jackie Berrios, Kristen Billyer,
Gary Bogdansky, John Bolendz, Dean Boturla, Arrol
Borden, Father John Boyle, Elaine Bowen, Baby Niamh,
Dennis Michael Brady, Jeanmarie Brady, Joyce and Ray
Bradley, Ben Bravo, Fran Bucco, Helen Buczynski,
Courtney Bulinsky, Edward Butler, Karen Burke, James
Burke, Sheila Buxton, Emily Calabro, Henry Caldaro,
Mary Caliendo, Helene Callari, Sal Campanella, Alice
Carroll, Adrienne Carroll, Carol Caruso, Aurora
Castorina, Christine Cannavale, Fabian Ceballos,
Lauren Cerra, Rose Chiaia, Cindy Chiarello, Vic
Cipriaso, Joanne Clark, Steven Clarke, Catherine
Connolly, Peggy Conover, Rosemary Conover, Thomas
Conover, Lexis Contini, Christopher Coon, Karen Costa,
Tina Costa, Roberta Cranmer, Will Cronrath, Lori Cuffari,
Roesalia D’Angelo, Elizabeth Daley, Frank Dalton,
Francine Danish, Jean Davidson, Mary Desmond,
Margaret DeBevoise, Judy DeFeo, Celeste DeLeonibus,
The DeSeta Family, Thomas DiCarlo, Pat Diemer,
Natalie DiGennaro, Charlie Donaldson, Irene KolazDougherty, Robert Downey, Robbie Drescher, Cliff
Drysielski, Linda Drysielski, Gloria Eebel, Jake Eggie,
Caroline English, Katherine Engelhardt, Lucas Ertle,
Joanne Ericson, Mary Fallon, Caitlin Faria, Michelle
Farrell, Jean Fatigante, Sophia Fecher, Michael Fecile,
Sharon Ferriole, Mary Finnigan, JoAnn Filippo, Kathleen
Fitzpatrick, Cindy Flanngan, Lucy Flannery, Thomas
Fox, Mary Alice French, Ron Galassa, Charlene
Gallagher, Josie Gallo, Robert Gandy, Dolores Geise,
Joan Gern, James Gibson, Pat Gilbert, James Gilligan,
Jane Gleason, Maureen Glende, MaryAnn Goetz, Robert
Greco, Carmine Grecco, Joseph Grena, J. Griffiths, Ltc.
Charles Grinnel, Diane Gruber, Linda Guerra, Richard
Scott Gunther, James Hall, Alice Halloran,
Monday, December 22nd
9:00 a.m.
Margeurite Healey
req. Richard and Caroline Healey
Jim and Catherine Manning
req. Jim and Marion Manning
Mary O’Neill req. The Schafer Family
Tuesday, December 23rd
9:00 a.m.
Thomas J. Falco, Sr.2
req. June C. Falco and Family
Mary O’Neill req. Mike and Carol Byrne
Sante Giulietti
req. John and Denise Contino
Wednesday, December 24th
4:00 p.m.
Christmas Intentions
6:00 p.m.
Christmas Intentions
8:00 p.m.
Christmas Intentions
Thursday, December 25th
12:00 a.m.
Christmas Intentions
8:30 a.m.
Christmas Intentions
10:00 a.m.
Christmas Intentions
11:30 a.m.
Christmas Intentions
Friday, December 26th
9:00 a.m.
Al Suarez
req. Suarez and Velasco Family
Christine Maneri req. Patricia Ambrosio
Mary O’Neill req. The McNally Family
1
2
Leeann DeLuise
req. The DeLuise Family
For the People of St. Benedict
6th Anniversary of Death
2
Parish Meetings
Prayer Intentions continued
Regina Holland, Joe Handley, Anna Hoover, Leo
Howrigan, Joseph Hunter, Leonard Hutchins, Andrew
Hurni, Timothy Hussey, Cole Illions, Chris Illingworth, Gail
Imbro, Constance Yahara-Joans, Olivia Jones, Lisa
Johnson, Kim Jones, Linda Kaminsky, Francesca
Karpicki, Donna Kendall, Stanley Kendall, Mary Kenny,
Georgianne Kerr, Renee Kojola, Joseph Kondek, Kevin
Kret, Evelyn Krzyston, John Ksenicz, Sheryl Ksenicz, Joan
Labruno, Jeanne Labriola, Helen Lacosta, Rose Landi,
Elizabeth Lamura, Jennifer Larkin, Lana Larkin, Larry
Laws, Edward Leahy, Annie Leonard, Edward Linsky, Fay
Lods, Victoria Lombarde, Pasqualino Lombardi, Rita
Lomicky, Mildred Lomicky, David Long, Alex Long, Sue
Lewan, Frank Loperena, Jennifer Louvavo, Joseph
Lucciola, Eileen Lynch, Lou Magrino, Betty Maniscalco,
Catherine Mannino, Anna Mantani, Anthony Marcelo,
Diane Mariani, Kenneth Martin, Valerie Sullivan Mathews,
Madeline Masi, Mauriello Family, Jim Mayer, Mathew
McBride, Seana McCallam, Bill McCarthy, Christine
McCollum, Eleanor McCoy, Lois McDowell, Eileen
McGlynn, Brian McGuire, Sarah McHugh, Kathleen
McKeever, Ann McMenamin, Bill Merritt, Raymond
Michaud, Geraldine Mickley, Kathleen Milner, Brenda
Mittenhuber, Frances Montagno-Adario, Keith Mohsinger,
Nicole Montagna, Margaret Moreno, Father Morty, William
Mueller, Sr., Dara Mullen, Kristin Murray, Carole Murphy,
Eamon Nally, Christina Nanfeldt, Dolores Nanfeldt, Marie
Nanfeldt, Steve Napolitano, Marcy Nicholson, Joy Nocek,
Helen Nowak, Richard Oehling, Helen O’Connor, Thomas
O’Hara, Ray Orpen, Frances Page, Regina Paglia, Angelo
Paino Jr., Joy Palumbo, Jeanette Paone, Annmarie
Pandolfino, Ernest Parod, Loucille Peterson, Walter Pilate,
Sophie Piller, Frank Pino, Mary Plaza, Genevieve
Polkosky, Tommy Pompei, Nicole Potochar, Bill and Alicia
Powell, Eddie Power, Anna Power, Paula Pradhan,
Barbara Priggre, Helen Radziewicz, Christian Rastelli,
Edward Rath, Gregory Recco, Robert Reddington,
Kenneth Reilly, Dolores Restivo, Domenica Reyes, Brian
Rhatigan, Jane Rice, Delma Richardi, Vicky Rosa,
Catherine Ross, Dolores Ruddy, Mimi Salek, Evan and
Eric Sanborn, Jeanne Haralla-Scafiddi, Delfin SanJose,
Lisa Schillizzi, Muriel Shea, Kathleen Shea, John Sheehy,
Maureen Shepherd, Russell Shewchuk, David Silver,
Gloria Sinacore, Cole Siegel, Robyn Simon, Steven
Sirotic, Zachary Slane, Anna Slobodzian, Colleen
Smialowitz, Joseph Smialowitz, Angelo Soldi, Joseph
Sosidka, Carol Soviero, Lewis and Cynthia Spieler, David
Storicks, Ann Spade, Mike Sullivan, Colleen Sullivan,
Albert Sutter, Toni Marie Thaket, Carol Tafero, Raymond
Thomas, Theresa Thorstensen, Margaret Thynne, James
Tierney, Sabas Tordesillas, Daniela Toscano, Joyce
Trasky, Dominic Tropea, Ronnie Tretola, Christopher
Trubac, Fran VamVakas, Vita Varia, Gianluca Vasta, Chris
Varriano, Ernest Veca, Hipolita Velazquez, Vittoria
Ventura, Kristin Caparro-Vicari, Marie Walker, James
Walsh, Jack Walsh, Brian Walsh, Morgan West, Samantha
Whelan, Eleanor Wild, Claudia Williams, Kenneth
Williams, Harry White, Andy Wojciechowski, Craig Wright,
Debbie Yanchuk.
Baptism Preparation Class
The next Baptism Preparation class will be held on
Monday, January 5th at 7:30 p.m. in the Church.
Parish Council
The next meeting of the Parish Council will be held on
Tuesday, January 6th at 7:00 p.m. in the St. Benedict
room of the Father Anderson Library.
Advancement and Alumni Affairs
There will be no meeting of the Advancement and
Alumni Affairs Committee in December. The next
meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 20th at 7:00
p.m. in the St. Benedict room of the Father Anderson
Library.
School Board Meeting
There will be no School Board meeting in December.
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 20th
at 8:00 p.m. in the St. Benedict room of the Father
Anderson Library.
Finance Council
There will be no Finance Council meeting in December.
The next meeting will be held on Tuesday, January 27th
at 7:30 p.m. in the St. Benedict room of the Father
Anderson Library.
Anointing of the Sick
If for any reason you would like to receive the Anointing
of the Sick, please see either Father Dan or Father Kirk
before or after Mass.
Blessing Your Marriage
If you have been married civilly or in another religious
tradition and would like to have your marriage blessed
by the Catholic Church, please contact Father Dan or
Father Kirk by calling the Parish Office.
First Friday Confession
Confession will be available on First Fridays
immediately following the Mass.
First Friday Holy Hour
There will be Adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament
on Friday, January 2nd from 7:00 p.m. – 8:00 p.m.
Adoration will conclude with Benediction.
Holiday Parish Office Closing
The Parish Office will be closed from Wednesday,
December 24th until Friday, December 26th in
observance of Christmas. The office will reopen
Monday, December 29th
3
Sunday Stewardship Sermon
Fourth Sunday of Advent
In today’s Gospel reading we hear proclaimed the story of
the Annunciation, when the angel of the Lord announced to
Mary that she would give birth to Christ through the
intercession of the Holy Spirit. Mary allowed God’s
messenger to speak to her. She was attentive, not afraid
to enter into a dialogue, then unconditionally obedient.
Mary’s acceptance of this mystery is a stewardship model
for us. Good stewards remain open to the incursions of
divine life into the normal course of their daily lives. How
open are we to promptings of the Holy Spirit in our lives?
What might we do this last week of Advent to be more
attentive to the Lord?
Parish Registration – All Are Welcome!
“God is rich in mercy, because of His boundless love for
us. ” Ephesians 2:4 tells us God’s love knows no
boundaries and neither does St. Benedict. New
parishioners, regardless of where they live, are always
welcome and are encouraged to register at St. Benedict.
Registration forms are available in the Gathering Space,
the Parish Office and on our website at stbenedictnj.org.
Shut-Ins Anyone?
Inevitably there are parishioners in every parish who
cannot come to Mass because of ill health or lack of
transportation. If you know of someone like this, please
contact the Parish Office so the parishioner will have the
opportunity to pray with an extraordinary minister of the
Eucharist and receive Holy Communion regularly, and on
occasion, be visited by one of the priests.
The Nativity of the Lord (Christmas Day)
In today’s Christmas Mass at dawn we hear from the
Gospel reading that God has entered quietly into the world.
Not into the great city of Jerusalem, but into a small village
about five miles south. Not into a noble family, but to an
outcast couple keeping the newborn in a manger. Not
announced by royal edicts, but to common shepherds, the
first human heralds of Christ’s birth. As Christian stewards
we simply allow Christ to live in us no matter what our
circumstances happen to be. We allow Christ to share his
love with us and reflect that love out to others. We now are
the heralds of Christ’s Incarnation. What an unimaginable
gift from a generous Lord. Good stewards rejoice in this
gift and give glory to God.
Prayer Shawl Ministry
The Prayer Shawl Ministry meets on alternate Tuesday
mornings to knit or crochet shawls for those who are ill or
have lost a loved one. If you would like a shawl for
someone or would like to join us on Tuesdays, please call
Caroline Cattani at 732/566-2085 or Ann Piro
at 732/264-8287.
Alcoholics Anonymous Meeting
There are three Alcoholics Anonymous meetings held at
St. Benedict each week. Meetings are Monday at
8:00 p.m., Tuesday at 6:30 p.m. and Friday at 5:45 p.m.
Alcoholics Anonymous meetings will take place in the
Monte Cassino room of the Father Anderson Library.
Merciful Savior Prayer Group
The St. Benedict Merciful Savior Group will meet every
Monday, except when a holiday falls on a Monday, at
7:30 p.m. in the Chapel. For further information, please
call Sal and Janice Alagona at 732/ 264-5744 or
Geri Ventura at 732/566-6642.
Adoption Connections
Adoption Connections is a support group for all members
of the adoption triad (birth parents, adoptive parents,
adoptees) including pre-adoptive parents who are
exploring the different pathways to adoption. Attendees
can learn more about the adoption process, international
vs. domestic and closed vs. open and semi-open options.
We also explore issues related to raising children such as
answering adoption related questions in an age
appropriate way. The group facilitators are adoptive
parents and St. Benedict parishioners. The group meets
on the 2nd Friday evening of each month at 7:30 p.m. in
the Monte Cassino room of the Father Anderson Library.
For more information contact Tricia and Dan Zichello at
917/601-8866 or [email protected]. Please Note:
The Adoption Support Group will not meet in
December. Merry Christmas.
Prayer Intention Group
The Prayer Intention Group meets on the second
Wednesday of each month after the 9:00 a.m. Mass in the
Chapel to pray for one another’s special intentions.
Disease of Celiac Sprue
Those who have been diagnosed with Celiac Sprue have
the opportunity to receive a low gluten host at Holy
Communion. Please see one of the priests prior to Mass to
identify yourself and so directions can be given for you to
receive the Blessed Sacrament.
Appreciating Our Military
If anyone knows a member of the Military
who has recently returned from their tour
of duty and will be attending Mass here,
please see Father Dan or Father Kirk
before the Mass so he/she can be thanked
and recognized for their service to our
country from the altar.
Offertory Collection
Due to the Christmas Holiday, this bulletin was
transmitted on Friday, December 12th. The details of last
Sunday’s collection and the Christmas collection will be
published in a future bulletin.
4
CHRISTMAS MASS SCHEDULE
Pray for Vocations
Christmas Eve: Wednesday, December 24th
4:00 p.m. Children’s Mass in Church featuring
Gospel Re-enactment and the Children’s Choir
6:00 and 8:00 p.m. Mass in Church
Midnight Mass in Church featuring
Altar Server Procession and
the Contemporary Choir with Brass Accompaniment
St. Benedict parishioners are praying for vocations.
Families have agreed to take an icon of St. Benedict and
prayer cards home with them after Sunday Mass. The
family will pray together for vocations every day for a week.
The icon should be returned to the sacristy every Sunday
so it can be taken by the next family. Please sign the roster
in the Gathering Space to Pray for Vocations.
Christmas Day: Thursday, December 25th
8:30, 10:00 and 11:30 a.m. in Church
Confessions
Confessions will be heard in the St. Benedict Chapel on
Tuesday, December 23rd at 7:30 p.m.
This week (December 21st-December 26th)
The Mariano Family
The Chivi Family
The Lombarde Family
The Brescia Family
Rehearsal for Children’s Christmas Eve Mass
The 4:00 p.m. Mass on Christmas Eve will be a
Children’s Mass. Rehearsal for this Mass will be on
Tuesday, December 23rd from 4:30 – 5:30 p.m. in
Church.
Next Week (December 28th-January 2nd)
The Mariano Family
The Chivi Family
The Brescia Family
The Lombarde Family
Altar Server Rehearsal for Midnight Mass on
Christmas Eve
There will be a rehearsal for all the altar servers of the
parish on Tuesday, December 23rd from 6:30-7:00 p.m. in
Church. This rehearsal will be for the Midnight Mass on
Christmas Eve.
“Vocations are born in prayer and from prayer; and only
through prayer can they persevere and bear fruit.”
Pope Francis
Youth Choir Alumni Mass
All graduates of the St. Benedict Youth Choir are invited
to join us for an Alumni Mass on Christmas Eve! We
welcome back our awesome singers from the past few
years as we celebrate the Savior's birth! Please come to
the choir room at 3:15 p.m. on Christmas Eve if you are
able to join the choir for the 4:00 p.m. Mass.
Legion of Mary
~To Jesus through Mary~
St. Benedict's Legion of Mary, entitled, “Our Lady of Victory
Praesidium,” is accepting new members. The purpose of
the Legion is to perform spiritual works of mercy. If
interested, please contact Cathy Ahearn at 732/530-1087.
Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament
Coming Soon
When he began his pastoral ministry, Pope John Paul II
cried out to the whole world, “Do not be afraid! Open,
indeed, open wide the doors to Christ! He was pleading
with us. Once you open the doors of your heart, of your
life, Christ will speak to the “real” you. His words will bring
life to your life. Why put off the healing of your heart! Make
Christ an important part of your life.
5
Decorating the Church for Christmas
Anyone, children and adults alike, interested in helping
Father Dan decorate the Church for Christmas is asked
to meet in Church on Wednesday, December 24th
(Christmas Eve) at 9:30 a.m.
Family Christmas Tree Ornaments
The Christmas tree in the Gathering Space will be
decorated with Christmas ornaments that were donated
by parishioner families. If you are new to St. Benedict and
would like a family ornament added to this year's
Christmas tree, please put an ornament in the box in the
Gathering Space.
Prayer for Religious Liberty
R E L IG IO U S
E D U C A T IO N
O God our Creator,
from your provident hand we have received
our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness.
You have called us as your people and given us
the right and the duty to worship you, the only true God,
and your Son, Jesus Christ.
Christmas Break
Religious Education classes are not scheduled for
December 24th and 31st Classes will resume on
Wednesday, January 7th. We would like to wish all families
a Merry Christmas and Happy New Year.
Through the power and working of your Holy Spirit,
you call us to live out our faith in the midst of the world,
bringing the light and the saving truth of the Gospel
to every corner of society.
First Reconciliation
Religious Education students will receive First
Reconciliation on Tuesday, January 13, 2015 at 7:00 p.m.
in the Church. St. Benedict School students will receive
First Reconciliation on Tuesday, January 20, 2015 at
7:00 p.m. in the Church. All children are asked to arrive at
6:45 p.m. and report directly to the Church.
We ask you to bless us
in our vigilance for the gift of religious liberty.
Give us the strength of mind and heart
to readily defend our freedoms when they are threatened;
give us courage in making our voices heard
on behalf of the rights of your Church
and the freedom of conscience of all people of faith.
C A T H O L IC Y O U T H
O R G A N IZ A T IO N
Grant, we pray, O heavenly Father,
a clear and united voice to all your sons and daughters
gathered in your Church
in this decisive hour in the history of our nation,
So that, with every trial withstood
and every danger overcome—
for the sake of our children, our grandchildren,
and all who come after us—
this great land will always be “one nation, under God,
indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.”
We ask this through Christ our Lord.
The Junior and High School CYO would like wish every
member of the Parish a very Blessed and Joyous
Christmas season.
Is God Calling You?
Christmas Open House
Once again our Vocational discernment group will meet on
the last Sunday of December. The format of this gathering
will be a visit to the Diocesan House of Discernment where
you will have the opportunity to meet and chat with some
of the priests and some of our seminarians of the Diocese
of Trenton.
Amen
If you are a faithful, single, Roman Catholic man, between
the ages of 18 and 40, and are asking yourself whether
God is calling you to be a priest, you are cordially invited to
attend this month’s Open House Discernment meeting on
December 28th from 3:00 to 6:00 p.m. at The Church of the
Sacred Heart Rectory, 343 S. Broad Street, Trenton. Join
Very Rev. Dennis Apoldite and some of the men of the
House of Discernment, as they share their experiences of
the priesthood. Please register with the Vocation Office at
vocations@dioceseoftrenton or by calling 609/406-7449.
6
Respect Life News
Washington, DC, December 8, 2014 (LifeNews.com) by Jennifer Christie
Last January, I was traveling on business, staying in a little
hotel in a college town. I like to think I'm usually more
aware of my surroundings, but it was so snowy and windy
that I wouldn't have heard his footsteps even if he had he
been stomping. It happened so fast. I got the door open,
turned around to close it, and he was there – a huge
man. My first instinct wasn't fear, just confusion. In an
instant, he punched me in the face. I don't remember being
dragged from the room, but I was found in the stairwell. I
don't know why — maybe I was trying to go for help. The
rape kit came back negative for HIV, gonorrhea, chlamydia,
syphilis, herpes, and dozens of other things I'd never heard
of. God is gracious. The following month, I was scheduled
to work on a cruise ship. Struck with dysentery on day two
and not getting better with antibiotics, I was taken to what
passes for a hospital when we docked in Cartagena,
Colombia. Concerned about intestinal obstruction, I was
given an ultrasound. And we saw the pea — my
son. Happy Valentine’s Day. Back on the ship, I told the
doctors an abbreviated version of my story, which resulted
in me being quarantined. Suicide watch? In danger of a
psychotic break that will have me running naked across the
shuffleboard courts? Who knows. What I know is that I
spent the next week listening to a team of very well
meaning doctors and nurses console me with how “easy” it
would be to “take care of it” — to kill the child. To start
over. Easy??? There were a lot of things discussed over
scratchy, tearful transatlantic phone calls home that week,
but the possibility of “taking care of it” never came off my
lips. Or my husband’s. When I told him I was pregnant,
he said with his voice calm and steady, “Okay. Okay . . . all
right . . . this is all right.” I asked him, “What do you MEAN
this is all right?” “I mean we can do this. We'll get through
this. It'll be okay. And, . . . I love babies. We're going to
have another baby. Sweetheart, this is a gift. This is
something wonderful from something terrible. We can DO
this.” And I began to feel the stirrings of joy for the new life
in my womb, blossoming under my heart. That new love
that would grow so fierce it overwhelmed any trepidation or
angst. And my husband was right. We could do it. On my
last morning aboard the ship, I said to this caring team, “If
you ever think about this again, if you ever wonder what
happened to me — I had a beautiful baby in October
2014.” Their reaction . . . , the looks on their faces . . . ,
the doctor who had pushed abortion more vehemently than
the others — she had tears in her eyes. For the first time, I
thought of how God can use this, this nightmare I'd
endured. Use me. I live in North Carolina. My OB who
delivered my last two children was running in the
Republican primary for U.S. Senate. He talks to people all
the time who challenge him with the “What about in cases
of rape?” question. What about them? My son will have a
voice. Until he can use it, it’s my responsibility — my
privilege — to speak for him. That’s my story. During my
pregnancy, I was in and out of the hospital for a couple of
months – more in than out. I had preeclampsia, high blood
pressure and uncontrolled seizures.
7
It was terrifying at 26 weeks when they admitted me
saying they might have to deliver that night — terrifying
because I desperately wanted my son to live! We got
past that fear. I had strict bed rest, but was home. Every
week we made it further was awesome, knowing how
glad I'd be once he got here safely in my
arms. Emotionally, I was doing very well. We were
working with a really godly team of doctors. It’s just a
matter of trusting utterly. This wasn't new. I'd felt
completely out of control since the assault in January —
not that “control” is ever anything but an illusion, but, you
know. 8-1/2 months ago the world upended and hadn't
righted since — until my son was born. Our little boy may
have been conceived in violence, but he is a gift from
God — a delicious gift that filled the hole in our family that
we never realized was there. He made us complete. I'm
so thankful to have been connected to other mothers who
became pregnant by rape as well. We are survivors. Not
victims. My son has healed me. The pressure to abort
from the medical community was extremely eye opening
to me. So many times I was told how “simple” it would be
and how quickly I could just “get on with my life” once it
was over. It was heartbreaking to have to repeatedly
hear it. Even some friends thought keeping the baby was
a mistake — that I wouldn't be able to handle things
emotionally. Every time we, as rape survivor mothers,
share our stories, we are strengthened as we strengthen
others. . . . And who knows what lives might be spared?
LifeNews Note: Jennifer Christie is a wife and mother of
5, and a blogger for www.savethe1.com
Healing the Wounds of Abortion
Rachel’s Vineyard Post-abortive Retreat
The psychological and spiritual wounds of abortion can
be sharp, deep and crippling. You may feel a deep
numbness and may not be able to name the pain or
recognize any of the symptoms. It can also have a
devastating impact on the father or grandparents of the
aborted child and friend/s of the mother.
You do not have to continue to hide in shame and fear.
Rachel’s Vineyard’s Retreat is a chance to focus on this
painful time in your life through a supportive nonjudgmental process, in an atmosphere of confidentiality,
understanding, and compassion. It is designed to
help both women and men experience the mercy and
compassion of God. If you have suffered through an
abortion and have isolated yourself from healing and
forgiveness, you might consider attending one our retreat
weekends. Upcoming retreat dates are February 27thMarch 1st and June 12th –June 14th. For more
information, contact:
Judy Warenkiewicz
at 732/536-6871.
All inquiries are strictly confidential.
Reigning Mercy
Have you suffered an abortion? Experience God’s love
and mercy and begin the journey of healing. Please call
the Sisters of Life 888/575-0075.
Knights of
Columbus
K of C Meeting
The next Knights of Columbus business meeting will be held
on Thursday, January 8th at 8:00 p.m. in the Father Anderson
Library. The meeting will be preceded by the praying of the
Rosary at Bayshore Healthcare Center. Please meet in the
Bayshore Healthcare Center lobby at 7:00 p.m.
Items Collected by the K of C
The K of C collects unwanted glasses, watches, hearing
aids, and jewelry for Eyes for the Needy and canceled
stamps for Hospitalized Veterans. Please place these items
in the proper basket in the church storage closet by the
candles in the rear of the church. Please do not combine
eyeglasses and stamps as different members are
responsible for these projects. Please do not deposit
religious cards you receive from organizations that offer
Masses for loved ones for a donation. THEY WILL BE
DISCARDED.
Phone Cards For Our Troops
The Council is accepting donations in order to purchase
phone cards for our troops serving overseas. Please contact
Jim Manning at 732/739-9712 if you would like to make a
donation.
The Knights Want YOU
The K of C has become the world's foremost Catholic
fraternal benefit society. The Order has helped families
obtain economic security and stability through its life
insurance, annuity and long-term care programs, and
has contributed time and energy worldwide to service in
communities. Locally, the Knights include men from
St. Benedict Parish who have given their time to support
many charitable fund raising efforts for over 20 years.
Please visit us at www.facebook.com/kofcholmdel for
information on our charitable works and how you can
become a member.
Birthright Supplies
Birthright provides free and confidential support to
women who are distressed by an unplanned pregnancy.
Birthright provides emotional support, free pregnancy
testing, maternity and baby clothes. It also provides
information and referrals to help their clients meet legal,
medical, financial and housing needs. There is a
continuous need for newborn and size 4 diapers.
Seasonal maternity clothes would also be appreciated.
St. Catharine’s Employment Resource Committee
St. Catharine’s Church, 108 Middletown Road, Holmdel
offers an employment resource workshop at 7:00 p.m.
on the second and fourth Monday of each month in
Room 1. Guidance is offered for resume writing,
networking and employment skills. Spiritual support is
also provided.
Breakfast Buffet Every Month
Thank you, St Benedict Parishioners, for supporting our
Pancake Breakfasts. The proceeds from EVERY K of C
breakfast buffet support those in need, including Birthright,
the Developmentally Disadvantaged, Manna House, Boy
Scout Eagle Projects at St Benedict, our annual Basketball
Free-Throw and Youth Soccer Challenges and other Church
and community programs. Thank you to IHOP in Keyport for
donating the pancake batter for our monthly breakfasts. We
are pleased to continue the monthly Breakfast buffets on the
3rd Sunday of every month, year round. Prices are $6.00 per
adult, $5.00 per child or $18.00 per family.
Contact:
Angelo DeRosa— [email protected],
Vin Pizzolo—[email protected].
Under GOD “T” Shirts for Sale
To those of you who purchased our Under God T-shirts
“Thank you very much for supporting us in this effort”.
Because of the pending lawsuit against the Matawan/
Aberdeen Regional HS to remove the words “UNDER GOD”
from the Pledge of Allegiance, St. Benedict K of C Council
#11349 will be taking T-shirts orders at a low cost of $12.00
each. We will also continue to sell the T-shirts at our
monthly Breakfast Buffet and on certain Saturdays/Sundays
before and after Mass. If interested, please call Jack Lietz
732/583-4602.
Assisted Transportation is provided to seniors who
are not able to schedule with SCAT, shut-ins who are
not able to get out or seniors who have just returned
from a hospital stay. Transportation is provided to the
pharmacy, to pick up prescriptions, to a doctor’s
appointment, to the Food Pantry for low-income seniors,
the grocery store and the bank. Contact Lorrie McGee at
732/264-4712 ext. 37.
Knights of Columbus Community Service
If you are a parishioner or know of any parishioners in our
parish who need help with home maintenance tasks please
contact Guido Scirvanich at 732/483-4127.
8
60 PLUS CORNER
Help for People with Medicare (SHIP) is a State
Health Insurance Program that provides FREE,
objective, confidential help to Medicare beneficiaries
who have problems or questions with Medicare,
Medigap, Medicare Advantage Plans, Part D and LongTerm Care. Please call the Parish Office for more
information.
The Food Bank will provide a case manager for
St. Benedict to assist anyone who is eligible or might be
eligible for SNAP - Senior Nutrition Assistance Program.
Please call the Food Pantry 732/264-4712 ext. 34
between the hours of 10:00 a.m. - 12:00 p.m. to make
an appointment.
SVDP Thank you
The St. Vincent dePaul Board would like to take this
opportunity to thank all those who gave so willingly of their
time, talent and treasure this year. It is because of this
continued generosity and support that the SVDP is able to
fulfill its mission and continue its work. The efforts of all
are very much appreciated.
SOCIETY OF
ST. VINCENT DE PAUL
Imagine how Mary felt at the birth of Jesus: excited, awed,
frightened. Deep faith was her light in the darkness, for
We would like to take this opportunity to wish everyone a
Jesus was born during the night of the year when darkness
happy and blessed Christmas and a bright and
is the longest. In faith is found the real, lasting, and deep
prosperous New Year.
joy of Christmas.
Virtual Thrift Shop
St. Benedict Virtual Thrift Shop is a service for those
wishing to donate clean, working household goods.
Clothing may be donated via the clothing bin located
behind the food pantry. We connect donors with
individuals in need of goods. Donors and recipients should
call 732/264-4712 ext.13 and leave a message. When
leaving your message please speak slowly and clearly.
Volunteers update our list weekly and will call if there is a
match. A tax letter receipt for accepted donations will be
provided. Due to space restrictions and limited volunteer
help we are unable to pick up, deliver or warehouse any
donations at this time. Please do not drop off any items at
the pantry without prior approval.
Food Pantry Hours
The Food Pantry is closed on Mondays and Saturdays.
The Food Pantry will be open Tuesday through Friday from
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. and Tuesday evenings from
5:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.
SCRIP Cards
The St. Vincent DePaul Society is providing food gift cards
to area supermarkets for many of our pantry visitors. The
holidays are fast approaching and a food card would add
in providing a holiday meal to the less fortunate.
Parishioners are asked to use Scrip envelopes in the back
of Church and make a donation. Scrip envelopes can be
placed in the collection basket or at the Parish Office.
Have You Been Impacted by Hurricane Sandy?
We may be able to help! The Diocese of Trenton in
conjunction with the Society of St. Vincent de Paul and
several other Catholic agencies are prepared to assist
you. Hurricane survivors are asked to call the
St. Vincent de Paul helpline in their area for an
appointment. You can find the helpline in your area by
sending an email to [email protected] or by
going to www.dioceseoftrenton.org and clicking on
“Diocesan Hurricane Sandy Long Term Recovery Plan.”
You can also call 609/267-3053, ext. 487. This will allow
for sufficient time with each survivor.
Volunteer Drivers / Loaders
Volunteer help is needed: to assist in picking up food at
ALDI'S, Hazlet and loading it onto church van; to drive
church van to the Food Bank (Neptune) to pick up food; to
help unload food as it comes to Food Pantry. This is
mainly done on Monday mornings. Please call Jack Lietz
at 732/583-4602.
St. Vincent de Paul Food Pantry-Bag Ministry
For your convenience, bags are left at all the Church doors
on the 1st Sunday of each month. We welcome any
donations for our pantry. Please consider supporting this
ministry by providing a few of the items listed.
Items Needed:
Diapers—all sizes
Baby Food—stages 2/3
Coffee
Juice (all kinds)
Toilet Tissue
Dish Detergent
Used Cars Needed for Transportation
Love In the Name of Christ (INC) since 1995 has been
giving out cars to verified needy people in Monmouth
County that desperately need transportation. There is no
other program that we offer that changes lives as quickly
as providing a car for transportation. The donor gets the
full fair market value of the car as a tax deduction. If you
would like to make a difference for one of “our neighbor’s
in need” please call 732/542-7012 ext. 206.
Baby Wipes
Kid’s Cereal
Tea
Soup (variety)
Toothpaste and Brushes
Laundry Detergent
Please return your donation in the bags provided. If you
would like more information about the Bag Ministry or the
works of St. Vincent de Paul, please contact our President,
Patti Dickens at [email protected].
Donate Your Used Furniture
Donate your good used furniture to “Furnished With Love”
a ministry of Love INC. Free pickup and tax receipt is
issued. Call 732/222-1923 to schedule pickup at our
“Furnished With Love Store.” Or come shop in our store
located at 583 Broadway, Long Branch. The quality of
our merchandise is excellent and at great prices and we
also carry NEW mattresses. With a purchase you will
know that the money helps others with rent assistance
and other areas of need in Monmouth County.
www.loveincnj.org
9
Christmas Poinsettias
St. Benedict Parish gratefully acknowledges the gifts that
accompanied the following prayer intentions for the
beautiful Christmas Poinsettias. These following intentions
will be remembered at all Masses throughout the
Christmas Season.
In Memory of:
 Julius Caprio req. Marie Caprio
 Cynthia Racioppi req. Marie Caprio
 Jerry O’Leary req. Chris and Carol Baker
 Charles Baker req. Chris and Carol Baker
 Kathleen O’Leary req. Chris and Carol Baker
 Charles Benjamin req. Chris and Carol Baker
 Anna and John Ricci req. Frances Fox and Family
 Charles and Audrey Ewald req. Susan Skidmore
 James M. Feuker req. Mildred Feuker
 Deacon Michael McCabe req. The McCabe Family
 Patricia Ann McCabe req. The McCabe Family
 David and Olga Mathews
req. Joseph and Joyce Muller
 Joseph and Elizabeth Muller
req. Joseph and Joyce Muller
 John and Sally Higgins req. The DeBeVoise Family
 Wilbur DeBeVoise req. The DeBeVoise Family
 Carolyn Harkins req. The DeBeVoise Family
 John Hroncich req. The Reilly Family
 Michael Denboske req. The Reilly Family
 Michael DiMauro req. Joanne Bunzel
 Edythe DiMauro req. Joanne Bunzel
 Louis DiMauro req. Joanne Bunzel
 Mr. and Mrs. S. DiMaggio
req. Mr. and Mrs. D. Ciavarro
 Mr. and Mrs. D. Ciavarro req. Mr and Mrs. D. Ciavarro
 Elma and Patrick Higgins req. James and Lucy Higgins
 Nancy and Frank Spinelli req. James and Lucy Higgins
 Ray Thomson req. Bobbie Thomson
 Raymond and Frances Pignato
req. Marguerite Pignato
 Joseph and Eleanor DiFalco req. Margeurite Pignato
 Joseph DellaBella req. Margeurite Pignato
 Carmela Marzigliano req. The Wintjen Family
 Janice Vitale req. The Wintjen Family
 Richard Pannell req. Lillian Pannell
 Eda Gilligan req. Jean and Bill Fiorelli
 Nancy Walsh req. Jean and Bill Fiorelli
 Fr. William Anderson req. Jean and Bill Fiorelli
 Matthew Marabito req. Maria Marabito and Family
 Joseph A. Pomara Sr req. Josephine Pomara
 Capt. Michael McGreevy USMC
req. The McGreevy Family
 McGreevy Family req. McGreevy Family
 Cully Family req. McGreevy Family
 Josephine Demma
req. Maureen Tornabene and Family
 James D. Lynch req. Family
 Maryann Cannarozzo req. Family
10

















































Albert Douglass req. The Heite Family
Fr. Vincent Douglass CSSR req. The Heite Family
Anna Abbate req. The Heite Family
Antonio and Concetta Crudele req. The Heite Family
Philip and Josephine Romano req. The Heite Family
Anna and Daniel Murphy req. Patricia Liptzin
Boe Family req. Mary Boe
McPartland Family req. Mary Boe
McCaughey Family req. Mary Boe
Clifford Family req. Mary Boe
Tegins Family req. Mary Boe
Trepain Family req. Mary Boe
Terry and Mollie Allocco req. Maria Allocco
Sergio, Susanna, Vincent and Charlie Valente
req. James and Rose Allocco
Eda M. Gilligan req. John Gilligan
James Gilligan req. John Gilligan
Mary Gilligan req. John Gilligan
Grace Pangia req. John Gilligan
Albert Pangia req. John Gilligan
Charles J. Carroll req. Carroll Family
Alfio and Therese Fioranelli req. Susan Benson
Doris and Elizabeth Oblazney req. Chester Oblazney
Marjorie and Bill Johnston
req. Tom and Sue Chodakiewicz
Frank and Catherine Townsend
req. Tom and Sue Chodakiewicz
Jack and Vera Fromm
req. Tom and Sue Chodakiewicz
Andy and Helen Dalton req. Betty Dalton
Buddy and Fran Lauriat req. Betty Dalton
Ray and Loretta Delavan req. Betty Dalton
Ralph and Eleanor Delavan req. Betty Dalton
Bury and Viscide Family req. Joan and Michael Bury
Anthony Palumbo req. Joseph and Chris Flynn
Arlene E. Kondek req. The Kondek Family
Christine Cavalli req. Her Loving Family
Ignacy Sosnowski req. Viola and Margaret Peter
Mary Sosnowski req. Viola and Margaret Peter
Andrew Peter req. Viola and Margaret Peter
Alice Kearney req. Albertson Family
Dorothy Kearney req. Albertson Family
Francis Swiney req. Albertson Family
Margie and Joe Clark req. Children
John and Darlene Shea req. The Family
Patrick Coyle req. Mom, Dad and Elizabeth
Richard Driscoll req. Robin A. Serpico and Family
Michael Driscoll req. Robin A. Serpico and Family
Charles and Edith Driscoll
req. Robin A. Serpico and Family
Pat Serpico req. Robin A. Serpico and Family
Ben and Lucy Pomara
req. Mr. and Mrs. Eduardo Jackson
Rachel Jackson req. Mr. and Mrs. Eduardo Jackson
Anthony J. and Dorothy Latacz
req. T. Frank and Suzanne Dalton




Christmas Poinsettias continued
 Thomas F. and Gertrude Dalton
req. T. Frank and Suzanne Dalton
 Schafer and Schaetzle Family req. Schaefer Family
 Pat and Dorothy Carrano
req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family
 Anthony and MaryAnn Coniglario
req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family
 Genito Family
req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family
 The Healey Family
req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family
 The Podgorski Family
req. Mr. and Mrs. Richard Healey and Family
 Carol Wegrzynowicz and Joshua Mooney
req. Tom Mooney
 Joe and Jean Wegrzynowicz req. Tom Mooney
 John and Mary Mooney req. Tom Mooney
 Charles and Miriam Mooney req. Tom Mooney
 Robert McMenamin req. Ann McMenamin
 Elizabeth and August Wollenhaupt
req. Dennis and Marie Costa
 Vincenzenia and Anthony Costa
req. Dennis and Marie Costa
 Robert Buta req. Dennis and Marie Costa
 Robert Matkowski req. Dennis and Marie Costa
 Nancy and Louis DeMattia
req. Dennis and Marie Costa
 Nicolo Cirnigliaro req. The Vasta Family
 Robert LaSala req. The Vasta Family
 Allen G Miller req. Mary Lou Miller
 Conway and Ventura Families
req. Tom and Geri Ventura
 Fricano Family req. Michael and Christine Mullaney
 Mullaney Family req. Michael and Christine Mullaney
 Conway Family req. Michael and Christine Mullaney
 Calibert Family req. Michael and Christine Mullaney
 Shaun Walsh req. Betty Walsh
 Audrey Nardone req. The Martini Family
 John Martini req. The Martini Family
 John Aldermeshian req. Marie Aldermeshian
 Anisse Yehya req. Marie Aldermeshian
 Aloysius Beatty req. Beatty/Knauffman Families
 Modesta Beatty req. Beatty/Knauffman Families
 George Beatty req. Beatty/Knauffman Families
 Charles Brierley req. Diane, Kristen and Jennifer
 Vera and Joseph Falvo req. Ron and Judy Cleary
 Norine and Charles Cleary req. Ron and Judy Cleary
 Patrick Hogan req. Family
 James Cena req. William and Tina Costa
 Our parents and grandparents req. The King Family
 The Wisnewski and Clarke Families
req. The Wisnewskis
 Deceased members of the Pucciariello Family
req. loving Niece Jo Nobile
 Alphonse and Concetta Nobile
req. Loving daughter Jo Nobile










































11
Anna and Ralph Anzano req. Walling/Fecher Family
Mary and Joseph Yelpo req. Walling/Fecher Family
Tenah and Ralph Anzano req. Walling/Fecher Family
Kathy and Raymond Deveney
req. Walling/Fecher Family
Constance and Ray Deveney
req. Walling/Fecher Family
Vernon, Irene and Kenneth Walling
req. Walling/Fecher Family
Helen and Bill Fecher req. Walling/Fecher Family
Steve Fecher req. Walling/Fecher Family
Gino and Elvira Coletta
req. Umberto and Susan Coletta
Joseph and Maria Gambone
req. Umberto and Susan Coletta
John and Anna Kolp req. Umberto and Susan Coletta
Amaddio and Caroline Lucchesi
req. Umberto and Susan Coletta
Henry and Elizabeth Pelletier
req. Umberto and Susan Coletta
Geraldine Kozak req. John Kozak
John Redling req. Heidi and Steve O’Rourke
John and Bea O’Rourke
req. Heidi and Steve O’Rourke
Beatrice Cawley req. Heidi and Steve O’Rourke
Calvin Simmons req. Mr. and Mrs. R. Principe Sr.
John Principe req. Mr. and Mrs. R Principe Sr.
William Hunter Shea req. Mr. and Mrs. R. Principe Sr.
Nicholas Coniglio req. Libby Coniglio
George Kielce req. Bernice Kielce
Mary Jane Miller req. Elaine and Harold Dale
Mary Skorka req. The Karpie and Doxbeck Families
The Falco Family
req. The Karpie and Doxbeck Families
Martin and Flanigan Families
req. Betty and Gene Martin
Kozicki Family req. Mr. and Mrs. David J. Smith
Smith Family req. Mr. and Mrs. David J. Smith
Barbara and Anthony Ritti
req. Anne T. Malcolm and Sons
John J. and Anne E. Murphy req. Margaret Trudeau
Mary Catherine Murphy Boffa req. Margaret Trudeau
Anne Keith req. The Malloy Family
Valerie Alexa Castillo req. Michaud Family
Denis Daly req. Joan Donaldson
Denise Collopy req. Joan Donaldson
Madeline Carey req. Charles Donaldson
Joseph Sinacore req. The Talamo Family
Michele Talamo req. The Talamo Family
Joseph Reardon req. Mary Reardon and Family
Ann and Mike Cwik req. Monforte Family
John Pavonne Sr. req. The Pavonne Family
Carmela Benigno req. The Pavonne Family
Mary Benigno req. The The Pavonne Family
Rose Pluchino req. The Pavonne Family
Michael Pluchino req. The Pavonne Family
Eufemius Pluchino req. The Pavonne family
Christmas Poinsettias continued
 David Moyer req. Angie, Michael and Lisa Moyer
 Charles Benjamin req. Una Benjamin
 John and Jessica Gillen req. Jerry Gillen
 Robert Roddy req. The Roddy and Donchik Families
 Kevin Herron req. The Roddy Family
 Maureen and Packie McCabe req. The Roddy Family
Prayer Intentions
 For families who have lost family members
req. Maria Marabito and Family
 Thanksgiving for answered prayers
req. Lydia and John Javora
 Good health for Alice Carroll
req. MaryAnn and Bill Hopler
 Spiritual and emotional growth req. Mary Lou Miller
 God Bless America req. The Martini Family
 Peaceful Soul req. Diane, Kristen and Jennifer
 Costa and Cena Families req. William and Tina Costa
Worldwide Marriage Encounter
For a truly meaningful Christmas present, one that lasts
long after the cedorations have been put away, have been
put away, why not give your spouse the gift of a Marriage
Encounter Weekend?
A Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend gives you the
time and tools to revitalize romance, deepen communication, and nourish the spirituality in your marriage.
The next Worldwide Marriage Encounter Weekend will be
held January 16-18. Early registration is advisable as
space is limited. Please call 732/904-9636 for information
and registration.
Christmas Trees vs. Holiday Trees
Father Dan is pleased to announce that St. Benedict is
one of the first parishes in the Diocese of Trenton to once
again surpass its Annual Catholic Appeal goal of $90,000
by pledging to date $138,863. Since the goal has been
surpassed, fifty percent of all gifts received going forward
will be returned to St. Benedict in a parish rebate. Finally, 141 families have made a first time gift of at least
$25. Our goal for “first time” families to make a pledge has
been reached and St. Benedict will receive an additional
$6,750 in the parish rebate. Pledge forms are available at
the doors of the church or you may make your gift on line
at dioceseoftrenton.org/catholicappeal. Thank you again
for your support and generosity!
Annual Catholic Appeal in Action
Mount Carmel Guild
Mount Carmel Guild has been helping Mercer County
community members in their times of need since 1920
regardless of race or religion. Our services are offered
free to those who need them.
Home Health Nursing
The Guild’s Home Health Nursing provides in-home nursing services to seniors whose Medicare insurance has
been exhausted and have no alternative means of
care. Our nursing care allows patients to stay in the comfort of their own homes, in familiar surroundings. Services
can include: pre-filling insulin syringes for the sight impaired, pre-pouring medications weekly, monitoring vital
signs, blood sugars and cardiopulmonary status, administering injections, and assisting with pacemakers. Patient
referrals are always welcome.
Emergency Assistance Program
Each day, our staff members assess the needs of Mercer
County families and distribute bags of groceries based on
nutritional requirements. We assist approximately 700
heads of households each month. Our Comprehensive
Nutritional Care program provides high-protein food packages, vitamin supplements and nutritional counseling to
those who are HIV+. We also provide help for emergency
prescriptions.
Your gift gives them a place to turn to in their need.
12
13
14
15
16
17
18
19
20
21