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on MONDAY, MAY 26, 2025 ARLINGTON, NJ – Catholic Cemeteries of the Archdiocese of Newark invites the public to gather in prayer and gratitude at Memorial Day Masses held across its cemeteries on Monday, May 26, at 11 a.m. These annual outdoor services serve as a solemn and unifying tribute to the men and women who gave their lives in service to the U.S., as well as to all veterans and active-duty military. As part of the national program “Serving God and Country: A Memorial Day Salute to Our Heroes,” developed by the Catholic Cemetery Conference, these Masses honor those who paid the ultimate price for the nation’s freedom while uplifting all who have served — and continue to serve — with courage and faith. “Our Memorial Day Masses remind us of the sacred duty we share in remembering and praying for our veterans,” said Joseph M. Heckel, K.H.S., CCCE,... Read more →

by Staff Reports May 17, 2025 Bishop Joseph A. Williams, Bishop of the Diocese of Camden announces the following priest personnel changes: Effective May 1, 2025 – Rev. Thomas A. Newton, is appointed Director of Clergy Personnel; continues as Pastor, Saint Damien Parish, Ocean City, and Advocate for Priest’s Wellness. Effective June 1, 2025 – Rev. Christopher J. Myers, from Parochial Vicar, The Catholic Community of Christ Our Light, Cherry Hill, to Parochial Vicar, Notre Dame de la Mer, Wildwood, and Director of Catholic Identity, Wildwood Catholic Academy, Wildwood. Effective July 1, 2025 – Rev. Paul Abbruscato, from Parochial Vicar, Holy Child Parish, Runnemede, to Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish Shrine, Lindenwold. Effective July 1, 2025 – Rev. Arockia Britto Arul Ananthu, from Parochial Vicar, Christ the Good Shepherd, Vineland, to Parochial Vicar, Holy Child Parish, Runnemede. Effective July 1, 2025 – Rev. Christopher T. Bakey, from Part-Time... Read more →

Father Mulranen, Father Piro ordained to the priesthood ​Bishop Joseph A. Williams poses with newly ordained Father Timothy Mulranen and Father Thomas Piro, following the Ordination Mass, May 17, Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Mary, Mother of Mercy Parish, Glassboro. (Photos – Joe Warner) ***** GLASSBORO, NJ (May 19, 2025) – The Catholic faithful of South Jersey welcomed two new shepherds this morning, as Rev. Mr. Timothy Stephen Mulranen and Rev. Mr. Thomas Kristopher Piro were ordained to the priesthood for the Diocese of Camden. “This is the day the Lord has made; we rejoice and are glad in it,” Bishop Joseph A. Williams said at the start of the Ordination Mass celebrated at Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Mary, Mother of Mercy Parish. “Undoubtedly, the Mulranen and Piro families feel that joy more deeply than the rest of us,” Bishop Williams said. “Their hearts must be bursting with joy... Read more →

Newark, N.J. –On Sunday, May 18 Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, ordained eight transitional deacons and 19 permanent deacons during a Diaconate Ordination on Sunday, May 18, at 3 p.m. He will then ordain three men to the priesthood during a Presbyteral Ordination on Saturday, May 24, at 10 a.m. Both ordination Masses will take place at the Cathedral Basilica of the Sacred Heart in Newark. All are welcome to attend the ordinations and offer prayers for the newly ordained as they begin their ministry in parishes across Bergen, Essex, Hudson and Union counties. Attendees of the Presbyteral Ordination will also have the opportunity to receive the first blessings from the new priests, who will greet well-wishers after the ceremony. Both ordination Masses will be livestreamed on the Cathedral Basilica’s YouTube page. This year’s presbyteral ordinandi followed diverse paths to the priesthood. Despite their varied backgrounds, they... Read more →

by University of Nebraska-Lincoln Newswise — The election of Cardinal Robert Prevost to the pontificate is notable for the first pope to be a member of the Augustinian friars since 1447. This order, like the Dominicans, Franciscans, and Carmelites, requires vows of poverty, obedience, and chastity, and they are specially dedicated to caring for the poor, to preaching, and to mission work. The last Augustinian friar pope, Eugenius IV, angered political authorities by forbidding the enslavement of the natives of the Canary islands who converted to Christianity. This set the stage for the refusal of later popes to enslave native Americans. Leo XIV's priorities cannot be foreseen with certainty, but the likelihood that he will embody this tradition of pastoral attention to the disadvantaged is considerable. In a period of history in which powerful countries are showing little mercy for migrants, this will almost certainly have an important effect. That... Read more →

Camden diocese gives up court fight in state clergy abuse probe by Dana DiFilippo, New Jersey Monitor May 7, 2025 The Catholic Diocese of Camden has abandoned its attempt to prevent state prosecutors from convening a grand jury to investigate clergy abuse, an unexpected move that comes just a week after the New Jersey Supreme Court heard heated arguments on the matter. Bishop Joseph A. Williams, in a Tuesday letter to parishioners, said he met last Thursday with the diocese’s trustees and other leaders, and they unanimously agreed to end their seven-year battle to prevent the state Office of the Attorney General from presenting the findings of its clergy abuse task force to a grand jury. State attorneys had hoped grand jurors would issue a presentment, in which they’d publicly condemn abusive priests and church leaders who covered up abuse and recommend reforms to prevent such harms from happening again.... Read more →

Photo credit VaticanNews.com By Kelly A. Tussey Cardinal Robert Francis Prevost was born on September 14, 1955 in Chicago, Illinois. He graduated in 1977 from Villanova University in Delaware County, Pennsylvania with a Bachelor of Science Degree in Mathematics. He then studied canon law at the Pontifical Saint Thomas Aquinas University and on June 19, 1982 was ordained as a priest. Pope Francis promoted Prevost to archbishop on January 30, 2023 and he was made a cardinal in January 2024. He has global experience, having spent most of his career as a missionary in South America. At 69 years of age, he is now the 267th Pontiff of the Catholic Church. Making history as the first American born pope he will be known as Pope Leo XIV and will lead the 1.4 billion Catholics worldwide. In his first appearance Pope Leo XIV, message was one of peace. Read more →

WASHINGTON, DC (MAY 5, 2025)(CNBNews)--The Justice Department today announced it has opened a civil rights investigation into the development and passage of Washington State Senate Bill 5375, signed into law on May 2, 2025, by Governor Bob Ferguson, which appears on its face to violate the First Amendment. Washington State’s new law adds “members of the clergy” to a list of other professionals who are required to report information received in a confessional setting relating to child abuse or neglect to law enforcement or other state authorities, with no exception for the absolute seal of confidentiality that applies to Catholic Priests. Furthermore, the State of Washington’s new law singles out “members of the clergy” as the only “supervisors” who may not rely on applicable legal privileges, including religious confessions, as a defense to mandatory reporting. The Civil Rights Division will investigate the apparent conflict between Washington State’s new law with... Read more →

by Dana DiFilippo, New Jersey Monitor April 28, 2025 The New Jersey Supreme Court heard arguments Monday in a long-fought case about whether a state grand jury can call out a private entity like the Catholic Church and recommend reforms for its public harms, like clergy sex abuse — or if such presentments are permissible only when they involve public entities and ongoing harms, as church attorneys contend. The Catholic Diocese of Camden has been battling the state to prevent a presentment since 2019, when former Attorney General Gurbir Grewal vowed to investigate clergy sex abuse. He acted after a Pennsylvania grand jury returned a presentment against hundreds of priests who victimized more than 1,000 children over seven decades Lower-court judges sided with the diocese and sealed the New Jersey case, so while the legal fight has continued for six years in secrecy, abuse victims were left wondering what happened... Read more →

By Dorothy Philbin Exclusive for CNBNews ROME, ITALY (APRIL 23, 2025)(CNBNews)--Pope Francis passed on April 21, 2025, at the age of 88. His cause of death was a stroke that prompted irreversible heart failure, according to a death certificate issued by the Vatican. He was born Jorge Maria Bergoglio on December 17, 1936, in Argentina. He spent his entire life in Argentina until becoming Pope on March 13, 2013, the first Pope from the Southern Hemisphere. He chose the name Francis to honor St. Francis of Assisi for whom he had great respect over the years. #popefrancis #vatican Pope Francis was ordained a Jesuit priest on December 13, 1969. The Jesuits are known for being an austere order of priests, a characteristic that Pope Francis would take all the way to the Vatican. Vatican employees learned about austerity immediately. It was tradition that with the change of Popes, all Vatican... Read more →

(CNBNEWS)(APRIL 21, 2025)--Pope Francis, at the age of 88, passed away in his residence at the Vatican’s Casa Santa Marta today, April 21, 2025, as confirmed by Vatican News. A picture of Pope Francis is displayed at St. Patrick's Cathedral, Monday, April 21, 2025, in New York. — AP #PopeFrancis At 9:45 AM, Cardinal Kevin Farrell, the Camerlengo of the Holy Roman Church, made the solemn announcement from Casa Santa Marta, stating: "Dearest brothers and sisters, with profound sorrow, I announce the death of our Holy Father Francis. At 7:35 this morning, the Bishop of Rome, Francis, returned to the house of the Father. His life was entirely devoted to the service of the Lord and His Church. He exemplified the values of the Gospel with unwavering fidelity, courage, and universal love, especially for the poorest and most marginalized. We express immense gratitude for his leadership as a true disciple... Read more →

by Terrence T. McDonald, New Jersey Monitor February 21, 2025 When the Catholic Church first faced scandals involving priests accused of sexually abusing children, the men who run the church shamefully spent more time protecting priests than the children in their flock. CNBNews graphic files I’m thinking of this today as Seton Hall University faces its own sex abuse scandal, one the university has responded to not by trying to make things right — but by targeting the person it thinks is responsible for shining a light on the problem. Politico New Jersey has done the heavy lifting here, and a lot of what it has reported is not really in dispute because it is backed up in documents. A legal review commissioned by Seton Hall concluded in 2019 that Monsignor Joseph R. Reilly, the rector and dean at the school’s Immaculate Conception Seminary, investigated a student complaint of “in-house”... Read more →

...for priest’s alleged sex abuse in New Jersey by Dana DiFilippo, New Jersey Monitor February 5, 2025 In a blow for clergy sex abuse victims, the New Jersey State Supreme Court has ruled that a Catholic archdiocese’s accountability for an alleged predatory priest does not cross state lines. The decision arose from the case of an Illinois man who accused Michael J. McCarthy, a priest in the Archdiocese of Philadelphia from 1965 until he was defrocked in 2006, of molesting him during an overnight stay in Margate in 1971, when he was 14 and a member of McCarthy’s parish. The man, identified only as D.T. in court paperwork, sued the archdiocese in May 2020 in New Jersey, one year after state legislators here enacted the New Jersey Child Victims Act. That law created a two-year window, from 2019 to 2021, to allow people to revive previously time-barred civil claims arising... Read more →

MLK DAY: Pastoral Organization Hosts Education Stop at Philadelphia Church PHILADELPHIA, PENNSYLVANIA – On Monday, January 20, 2025, at 6:30 PM, a community town hall will be held centered on education policies and their impacts on low-income and other marginalized students. The town hall will be held in at New Covenant Church of Philadelphia at 7500 Germantown Ave., Philadelphia, PA 19119. The event is free and open to the public. It is being organized by Black Pastors United for Education (BPUE), a nonpartisan, educational advocacy group of independent congregations. New Covenant Church of Philadelphia is one of the independent congregations that works in partnership with BPUE. The panelists for the town hall include: Rev. Joshua C. Robertson, Lenny McAllister, Pastor Bob Oliver, and Pastor Jerome Barmore. The town hall discussions are to help community members better understand the political process and education policies. “The church has a spiritual mandate to... Read more →

New directive limits — but doesn’t end — police use of baby blood samples by Nikita Biryukov, New Jersey Monitor June 20, 2024 A new directive Attorney General Matt Platkin issued Thursday will limit — but not end — law enforcement’s ability to obtain blood samples drawn as part of a mandatory state newborn screening program. Platkin’s directive was released alongside a Department of Health rules change limiting how long blood drawn for newborn screenings can be retained by the state. The changes come as New Jersey faces a class-action lawsuit lodged after the Office of the Public Defender alleged New Jersey State Police obtained blood from the screening program without a warrant and used it to tie the child’s father to a 1996 sexual assault. A public records lawsuit filed by the New Jersey Monitor and the Office of the Public Defender later revealed four law enforcement agencies had... Read more →

“The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia calls on Haverford College officials to condemn today’s student-organized campus event entitled “COVID in Times of Genocide: How Israel uses COVID as a Tool for Settler Colonialism in Palestine.” The event’s title dangerously and inaccurately implies that Israel spread coronavirus to advance its global control, repackaging a centuries-old antisemitic trope that Jews take advantage of global crises as a means for their own gain and advancement. In this case, the event’s narrative takes on a new form of the antisemitic blood libel trope, accusing Jews of committing ritual murder and perpetuating the harmful stereotype of Jews as evil and conniving. Higher education institutions have a responsibility to establish college campuses as a space for free speech and critical thinking. However, it must be rooted in academic integrity rather than disinformation. Haverford College and institutions of all sizes have a responsibility first and foremost to... Read more →

The Lawnside Historical Society and Grace Temple Baptist Church present a Gospel Celebration on Sunday, Feb. 25, at 3 p.m. featuring Gospel ensemble Heaven Sent and vocalists Thelma Isaac and Sister Hope Bates. Doors open at 2 p.m. The event at the Wayne Bryant Community Center, 323 E. Charleston Ave., will benefit the Peter Mott House Underground Railroad Museum. Tickets are $20 and can be purchased at the Mott House, or with the QR Code or by calling 856-546-8850. Vendors will be on hand including caterer Sea and Sizzle selling meals. Photo courtesy of Heaven Sent A brief excerpt of the Emmy-Award winning NJPBS documentary, “Treasures of New Jersey: The Peter Mott House,” will be shown. The Lawnside Juneteenth 5K/Walk Run committee will present a donation from their 2023 fundraising event that benefited the House. Read more →

Voters urged to contact state senators over expanded NJ abortion bill GUEST OPINION: In yet another step toward more open access to abortion in New Jersey – including keeping parents in the dark about their minor children seeking an abortion – legislation was scheduled for a Dec. 14 hearing, prompting a plea to ask state senators to oppose the bill. Babies at full term are only aborted in seven states https://www.elifenetwork.com/ With the vote on the bill S2918/A4350 now scheduled for mid-December, the New Jersey Catholic Conference issued an action alert urging voters to reach out to their representatives. The alert may be accessed at https://www.njcatholic.org/faith-in-action. The New Jersey Senate Health, Human Services and Senior Citizens Committee introduced the bill in June 23, 2022 – the day before the Supreme Court’s Roe v. Wade decision was overturned and abortion rights were returned to the state level. The bill allocates a... Read more →

The President & CEO of the Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia, Michael Balaban and the Director of the Jewish Community Relations Council, Jason Holtzman, have issued a statement in response to the Philly Palestine Coalition's Instagram call for a boycott of Israeli and Jewish-owned businesses. "The Jewish Federation of Greater Philadelphia condemns the Philly Palestine Coalition’s antisemitic campaign encouraging the boycott of ‘Zionist’ owned businesses in the Philadelphia area. This tactic does not in any way support Palestinians – it only serves to intimidate, isolate, and scapegoat Israeli and Jewish businesses. Targeting businesses solely because of their Israeli and Jewish ownership is blatant antisemitism and only further contributes to the alarming levels of hate against Jews nationwide. No business should be villainized for rightfully condemning Hamas, a designated terrorist organization, whose purpose is to kill Israelis and Jews with no regard for Palestinian life." Read more →

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (October 13, 2023)(CNBNews)--Gloucester Catholic is pleased to share the announcement of the "We Love GC" Richard and Neen Raspa Scholars Program. If you are considering the startup of a GC Scholars Program to honor your family, contact Pat Murphy, Executive Director of Development, at [email protected]. Richard '79 and Neen '77 Raspa and their entire family are truly grateful to give back to the current generation of Ram students. The Raspa Family and Gloucester Catholic have announced the establishment of the "We Love GC" Richard and Neen Raspa Scholars Program, which will provide a scholarship to a Gloucester Catholic student starting with the 2023-2024 school year and concluding in the 2026-2027 school year.The Raspa Family has spanned three generations at Gloucester Catholic as educators and students. Richard Raspa (Class of '79) and Neen Raspa (Class of '77) are proud graduates while their children Mike (Class of ‘07), Nina... Read more →

Dorothy Philbin | CNBNews Columnist GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ—Even if the only news you receive is via the internet, surely you are familiar with the new (as of Saturday, October 7, 2023) invasion of the Hamas (Muslims) into Israel (primarily Jewish.) This is not just a boundary dispute. Hamas has said they will not stop until there is not a Jew left in the world. They mean it. CNBNews graphic file Hamas is not just after Jews; they are, after all, "infidels." That means you and me, too. They have declared Friday, October 13, "The Day of Jahid" worldwide. They have already started to attack Paris, and every police officer in New York City has been called up - in full uniform. There are no vacations or days off. In Washington, DC, Capitol Police have called up extra officers. Even West Coast cities are on alert. America didn't have a warning... Read more →

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (SEPTEMBER 28, 2023)--Saint Mary Parish in Gloucester City continued its 175th-anniversary celebration on Sept. 17 with a Mass honoring the living and deceased students, alumni, faculty and staff of Gloucester Catholic Junior Senior High School and the former Saint Mary Grammar School. Deacon Joseph Rafferty, an alumnus and former teacher at both schools who is now principal of Saint Rose of Lima School in Haddon Heights, preached the homily and spoke lovingly of the many dedicated and passionate educators who walked the school halls and guided students in the faith. The Mass was attended by current and former students and staff, with Father George Seiter, pastor, and Father Peter Gallagher, the high school’s part-time director of Catholic Identity, concelebrating Mass. The Mass was among the many festivities that have been ongoing this year to recognize the 175th anniversary of Saint Mary Church. source The Catholic Star Herald Read more →

CATHOLIC SOCIAL SERVICES HOSTS DIAPER AND BABY CARE ITEM DRIVE FOR “PHILLY’S BIGGEST BABY SHOWER” PHILADELPHIA PA (JULY 31, 2023)(CNBNEWS)--Catholic Social Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (CSS) is currently collecting diapers and other baby care items to support new and expecting mothers and their families who will attend the CSS and Pro-Life Union of Greater Philadelphia’s co-sponsored “Philly’s Biggest Baby Shower” on Saturday, September 9, 2023. “CSS is committed to offering vital pregnancy and parenting support services throughout the Greater Philadelphia Area,” said Ms. Amy Stoner, director of CSS’ Community-Based and Housing and Homeless Services Divisions. “The donated items will be provided directly to new and expecting mothers providing them with the essentials necessary to care for their families in the best way possible. We are grateful for the ongoing generosity of donors who continue to help us make a difference in our communities.” Those interested in supporting CSS... Read more →

St. Marys Church/CNBNews photo GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (July 31, 2023)--St. Mary's Parish is celebrating its 175th Anniversary this year. The parish will mark the occasion on Sunday, September 17. with a mass and breakfast. Below are the details about that event. Come home to St. Mary Church, Gloucester City, Sunday September 17, and join us in celebrating the 175th Anniversary of the our parish. We will be honoring past and present students, faculty and staff of Gloucester Catholic High School and St. Mary Grammar School. We invite you and your families to join together with our current Gloucester Catholic Community at the 11:30 AM mass. St. Mary Parish is the oldest parish in the Diocese of Camden, and St. Mary Grammar School and Gloucester Catholic are a intrical part of that long and rich tradition. If you were Hawk or a Ram, we invite you to celebrate our parish and... Read more →

Dorothy Philbin |CNBNews Columnist Most students in the 11th or 12th grade have read Orwell's 1984 and Animal Farm or Huxley's Brave New World. These books, more than 50 years old, predicted what the world would look like in the authors' futures and our "now." In 2002 someone wrote to Ann Landers and asked her to explain all the "isms." Here they are: Starting on the left symbols for Socialism, Communism and Fascism Socialism - You have two cows. Give one to your neighbor. Communism - You have two cows. Give both cows to the government, and they may give you some milk. Fascism - You have two cows. You give the milk to the government, and the government sells it. Nazism - You have two cows. The government shoots you and takes the cows. Anarchism - You have two cows. Keep both cows, shoot the government agent and steal... Read more →

On June 25, 2023, Yola Stagliano (née Garufi), formerly of Haddon Heights, NJ, passed away peacefully in her sleep at the age of 97. Born Giuseppina Yola on May 12, 1926, she was born and raised in Philadelphia, PA, the only child of Antonio and Grace (née Sorbello) Garufi. Typical of Italian families, she was named after her father’s mom, but her entire life was referred to as Yola. A few times in her life she traveled back to Italy and Sicily with her parents. Yola was a graduate of Hallahan High School and The University of Pennsylvania. At Penn she met her future husband, Al, always known as ‘Stag.’ Fluent in Italian, she majored in foreign languages and became certified to teach Spanish and French. She was also certified in English. At 21 years old, her first teaching job was in NJ at Woodstown High School. She went from... Read more →

PHILADELPHIA, PA (June 12, 2023) – This July, The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia(CFGP), an independent nonprofit community foundation committed to growing Catholic philanthropy in the Greater Philadelphia area, will celebrate its 10 Year Anniversary. “What started as a dream 10 years ago has turned into a thriving nonprofit foundation that not only helps people all over the greater Philadelphia area but also accomplishes this with the love and intention of the teachings of our Catholic faith,” said Sarah Hanley, Chief Executive Officer for The Catholic Foundation of Greater Philadelphia. “This past year, we have been highlighting the people and organizations who have helped shape CFGP into what it is today. I’m excited to see what our next 10 years will bring.” Founded on the principles of transparency and accountability and built on the teachings of Jesus Christ, CFGP is the leading resource for Catholic and faith-based philanthropy in the... Read more →

NOTIFICATION To United States Congresswoman Nancy Pelosi The Second Vatican Council, decree on the Church in the Modern World, Gaudium et Spes, reiterated the Church's ancient and consistent teaching that "from the first moment of conception life must be guarded with the greatest care while abortion and infanticide are unspeakable crimes" (n. 51). Christians have, indeed, always upheld the dignity of human life ni every stage, especially the most vulnerable, beginning with life in the womb. His Holiness, Pope Francis, in keeping with his predecessors, has likewise been quite clear and emphatic in teaching the dignity of human life in the womb. This fundamental moral truth has consequences for Catholics in how they live their lives, especially those entrusted with promoting and protecting the public good of society. Pope St. John Paul II was also quite consistent in upholding this constant teaching of the Church and frequently reminded us that... Read more →

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (May 24, 2023)(CNBNews)--Gloucester Catholic's Performing Arts program will be transforming the school's cafeteria into a 1920s Cabaret on Friday, June 9th. Performances, thematic snacks, and an entertaining night. Read more →

PHILADELPHIA, PA (CNBNews)----Archbishop Nelson J. Pérez blessed and dedicated the 50-unit facility which will provide affordable housing for independent seniors in Delaware County. It is the sixth such facility opened by Catholic Housing and Community Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia Today at a special ceremony, Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, Archbishop of Philadelphia, blessed and dedicated Saint Joseph Place, a new affordable housing community for independent seniors in Collingdale (Delaware County). Catholic Housing and Community Services of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia (CHCS) along with project development partners, City, Borough, and Government Officials, donors, and community supporters joined the Archbishop to celebrate the opening of the newly renovated building which once housed Saint Joseph Parish School (1916-2010). Saint Joseph Place consists of 50 one-bedroom apartments for income eligible seniors 62 and older. Additional features include a community room, food cupboard, laundry facilities, resident lounges, and on-site social services facilitated by... Read more →

(Trenton, New Jersey)(MAY 19, 2023)(CNBNEWS)- – After 11 years of stewardship for the 1867 Sanctuary in Ewing Township, New Jersey, Preservation New Jersey (“PNJ”) has ended its lease and returned the site back to the Presbytery of the Coastlands. PNJ and the Presbytery entered a lease agreement on May 1, 2012, which granted PNJ full responsibility for the landmark, including the necessary repair, rehabilitation, and reuse of the building. The 1867 Sanctuary, formerly used by the First Presbyterian Church of Ewing congregation, was once slated for demolition. The partnership between both organizations was made to ensure a successful outcome. Through managing restoration, presenting programming and guiding reuse of the site, success was achieved. The 1867 Sanctuary had a history of structural concerns related to its roof trusses and stone walls. After debris from the building fell in 2007, it prompted the township to prohibit use of the building, the congregation... Read more →

Today, Most Reverend Nelson J. Pérez, Archbishop of Philadelphia, is pleased to share that Pope Francis has named Most Reverend Timothy C. Senior, currently an Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia, as the 12th Bishop of the Diocese of Harrisburg. Founded in 1868, the Diocese of Harrisburg is home to over 200,000 Catholics from 15 counties in central Pennsylvania. Biographical Information on Most Reverend Timothy C. Senior, Bishop-designate of Harrisburg Bishop Timothy Senior was ordained an Auxiliary Bishop of Philadelphia in July, 2009. He is currently Regional Bishop of Montgomery County and Philadelphia-South as well as Chancellor of Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary. Prior to assuming these responsibilities, Bishop Senior served as Rector of Saint Charles Borromeo Seminary from 2012 to 2022, after having been the Moderator of the Curia of the Archdiocese of Philadelphia from 2009 to 2012. He served as Vicar for Clergy from 2004 to 2009. From 1992 to 2004,... Read more →

Catholic League president Bill Donohue comments on attempts to bail out George Soros: image below George Soros has been one of the most prominent philanthropists serving the radical left-wing agenda for decades. Everyone knows it, yet there is a coordinated effort of late to bail him out, saying his critics are “anti-Semites,” looking for a “boogeyman.” His allies are particularly miffed about reports that Soros is funding criminal-friendly district attorneys across the nation. Here’s a recent sampling of efforts to brand Soros’ critics as anti-Semitic. In the last 19 days, the following news stories were written with that objective in mind. “Soros…has been a frequent boogeyman for Republicans. In recent years, they have often used the phrase ‘Soros-backed’ to attack Democratic candidates. Some have said this line of attack is an antisemitic dog whistle….” Josh Israel, americanindependent, March 22 “This is how anti-semitism takes root and spreads.” Teacher’s union chief... Read more →

We would like to wish all a Happy, Holy Easter! ~Bill and Connie Cleary/CNBNews image courtesy of ALAMY Cassandra Star Armstrong and her big sister Callahan sing a beautiful and meaningful Easter version of Leonard Cohen’s classic song “Hallelujah”. Leonard Cohen, a Canadian singer, and songwriter, originally wrote “Hallelujah” and many different musicians and bands have since performed their cover version of it. These Easter lyrics were written by Kelley Mooney, the piano track was arranged by Jeff Buckley of Karaoke Studios, and the recording is by Maverick Judson of MJ Interactive. Be sure to watch Children’s Choir Hallelujah to see another beautiful musical performance. Read more →

William E. Cleary Sr. | CNBNews I first met Father Brian when my mother-in-law Blanche Sarlo was sick with cancer. Brian arrived at St. Mary’s parish in 1977, a year before Blanche died. He visited her at home and during the last few weeks of her life at Jefferson Hospital in Philadelphia. The first thing I liked about the man was his warm demeanor. He was charming and affable. He was especially easy to talk to. This particular day as we were driving home after seeing Blanche, I happened to say out of the clear, “Fr. Brian, the good Nuns at St. Marys told me when I was still in grammar school if I received Holy Communion and went to mass on the first Friday of each month for eight straight months I will be guaranteed a happy death? In grammar school, on the First Friday of each month, starting... Read more →

Rev. Brian Edward O'Neill passed peacefully surrounded by loving family on March 31, 2023 at the age of 82. He was born on July 9, 1940 in Philadelphia and prepared for the Priesthood at Resurrection College in Ontario, Canada and Immaculate Conception Seminary School of Theology at Seton Hall University. Fr. O'Neill was ordained for the Diocese of Camden on May 18, 1968, by the Most Rev. George H. Guilfoyle at the Cathedral of the Immaculate Conception. He served as Parochial Vicar for St. Maria Goretti, Runnemede (1968-1971); Sacred Heart, Camden (1971-1976); St Andrew the Apostle, Gibbsboro (1976-1977); St Mary's, Gloucester City (1977-1980). He lived in residence at St. Maurice, Brooklawn (1980-1981); Immaculate Heart of Mary, Woodlyn, (1981-1983); St Cecilia, Pennsauken (1983-1988); St Mary's, Gloucester (1988-1999); St. John Vianney, Deptford (1999-2000); St. Pius X, Cherry Hill (2000-2001). Fr. O'Neill was pastor of St Gregory's, Magnolia (2002-2009) and Senior Priest at... Read more →

The Catholic Star Herald Staff Reports - Msgr. Harry J. Jordan, a retired pastor and dedicated principal in Catholic schools across the Diocese, died on March 25 at age 90. Born Nov. 25, 1932, in Philadelphia, Msgr. Jordan attended Lafayette College in Easton, Pa.; Villanova University, Villanova, Pa.; and Christ the King Seminary, N.Y., before being ordained a priest May 27, 1961, by Bishop Celestine J. Damiano. In addition to his many assignments as parochial vicar throughout the Diocese, he served as administrator of Saint Mary Church in Rosenhayn and pastor of Saint Isidore the Farmer, Vineland, and later of Saint Mary Parish, Gloucester City, where he remained until his retirement in 2003. A fervent supporter of Catholic education, he was acting vice principal and later, principal of Gloucester Catholic High School, Gloucester City, and principal in Saint Joseph High School, Hammonton. He also served on the Camden Catholic High... Read more →

Catholic League president Bill Donohue comments on the Nashville mass shooter: The Nashville mass shooting, which resulted in the killing of three children and three adults, needs to be investigated as a hate crime against Christians. Police Chief John Drake told NBC News that “There’s some belief that there was some resentment for having to go to that school.” The shooter, Audrey Hale, is a female who misidentified herself as a male. Her resentment against The Covenant School, a Christian school, is important given that Christianity teaches we are either male or female. In all likelihood, this is the source of her resentment. After all, she targeted this school—she did not go on a rampage in a local public school. To top things off, her mother works at a local church and frequently posts about religion on social media. There is another reason why Hale’s killing spree must be investigated... Read more →

GLOUCESTER CITY, NJ (March 22, 2023)(CNBNews)--A prayer service for people addicted to drugs and alcohol will be held on Sunday, March 26 at St. Mary's Church, 426 Monmouth Street, from 11:30 AM to 12:30 PM. The organizer of the event, who wishes to remain anonymous, was asked why it was being held. " "Since the beginning of the year it seems we have been losing more people to drugs, alcohol, and mental illnesses than ever before. Many of them I knew. Not just from My Father's House, but, from the entire community in the South Jersey region," she said. "There is strength in numbers. And, I thought if members of all the different faiths could come to pray under one roof maybe GOD would see how sincere we all are. That our pleas come from our hearts. That we are in desperate need of his Blessings. The service is being... Read more →

March 8, 2023 Catholic League president Bill Donohue addresses the priest-penitent privilege under scrutiny in Vermont: The Catholic League is used to doing battle with lawmakers who want to violate the seal of confession. Their intentions vary, but in each case the proximate cause of such legislation is the sexual abuse of minors. CNBNews graphic file In the last few years we succeeded in beating back attempts to vitiate the priest-penitent privilege in Utah and North Dakota. Now Vermont is considering such a law. The sponsor of the Vermont legislation is State Sen. Dick Sears Jr. Unlike many other lawmakers, he comes to this matter with good credentials: he has a record of combating child abuse. Unfortunately, his dedication to this cause has allowed him to think that progress could be made if we lifted the priest-penitent privilege. In a letter I sent today, I commended Sears for his work.... Read more →

Sister Marie Victoria Bartkowski (formerly Sister Mary Florentine), a Felician Sister for 61 years and a former pastoral minister in Glassboro, died Feb. 22 at the Immaculate Conception Convent in Lodi. She was 80. Born in Wilmington, Del., in 1943, she entered the postulancy of the Felician Sisters in Lodi in 1961. She earned a bachelor of arts degree in elementary education from Felician College, Lodi, and a master’s degree in secondary education from Connecticut State University. In her six decades of religious commitment, Sister Marie Victoria served in educational and pastoral ministries throughout the Dioceses of Camden, Metuchen, Wilmington, and Arlington, Va., as well as the Archdiocese of Newark. In the Diocese of Camden, Sister Marie Victoria served as a pastoral minister at Glassboro’s Saint Bridget Parish from 1984 to 1995. Her last assignment, where she served until November, was as pastoral assistant/director of faith formation at Most Sacred... Read more →

And, The Real Reason You Drink 4 Cups of Wine Wine Suggestions for Vegetarian, Vegan & Traditional Seders (Bayonne, NJ, MARCH 6, 2023) – Every spring, Jews around the world celebrate Passover. The highlight of the holiday is the Seder—a festive meal when the story of the Jewish exodus from Egypt is recalled and celebrated across the generations. Wine, considered the drink of royalty, plays a central role in the Seder ritual, as we are commanded to drink four cups throughout the evening. This year Passover is celebrated April 5- 13, 2023. Whether you are having traditional Seder fare, or vegan and vegetarian options, here are the top 15 wines for Passover as recommended by Gabriel Geller, Director of Public Relations and wine expert, Royal Wine Corp, the largest producer, importer and exporter of kosher wines. (“V” denotes pairs well with Vegan/Vegetarian.) Passover Wines Or Haganuz elima no sulfites -... Read more →

Bill Donohue | CNBNews Contributor On Sunday, March 5, Staten Island will hold its traditional St. Patrick’s Day Parade. As always, everyone is welcome to celebrate the contributions of St. Patrick. Those who seek to hijack the parade by drawing attention to their own agenda are not welcome. Larry Cummings is the head of the Richmond County St. Patrick’s Day Parade Committee. He made the right decision not to allow homosexuals to crash the parade. Gays are welcome to march, but, like everyone else, they are expected to blend in and not turn the parade into a celebration of their cause. Perversely, they insist on marching under their own banner. Cummings has wisely rejected their bid. He is on solid legal and moral grounds. In 1995, the U.S. Supreme Court ruled unanimously that the private sponsors of Boston’s St. Patrick’s Day Parade could exclude marchers whose message they reject. This... Read more →

Shamrock Celebration FRIDAY, March 3, 2023 - 6:00 PM, Tickets: $30 MSGR. Edward B Lucitt Parish Hall (Gloucester Catholic Gymnasium) 333 Ridgeway Street Gloucester City...Honoring Monsignor William Hodge **Entertainment Featuring: The Susan and Gerard Band, with Susan Gillespie, the “Sweetheart of Mayo” with a special performance by the Jordan Hunt School of Irish Dance **Ticket price includes a delicious traditional Irish dinner, as well as dessert selection and beer and wine! Spirits are cash bar. **The event will also feature an “Irish Auction” with gift baskets, 50/50, and door prizes. Tickets: Purchase tickets online NOW or in person beginning January 30 at St. Mary’s Rectory, Carr’s Hardware, Sunshine Flowers and Gifts Read more →

On Feb. 25, 2023; Age: 90; Devoted husband for 60 years of Margaret “Peggy” (nee Taylor); cherished father of Merri (Kevin) Griese, PJ McDermott, Vincent (Haidee) McDermott III, Maura McDermott, Marlene McDermott and the late Katey McDermott; adoring grandfather of Meredith (Chris) Lauber, Kevin (Courtney) Griese, Jr., Connor Glennon, Katey Griese, Marina Glennon, Nick Griese, Maggie McDermott, Hunter Vincent McDermott, and Taylor McDermott. Great-grandfather of Max and Teddy Vincent Lauber; dear brother of Mimi Keeley, Morrie Keeler and Kathleen Strott. Uncle Vincent to nieces and nephews too many to count. Dr. McDermott graduated from St. Joseph’s University, continued on to Thomas Jefferson Medical School, and completed his residency at St. Michael’s Hospital in Newark, NJ, where he met Peggy. His medical career spanned five decades at Our Lady of Lourdes Hospital in Camden. He also cared for folks at St. Mary’s Nursing Home in Cherry Hill, NJ, was the official... Read more →

at the 30th Annual Business & Labor Reception Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark, will honor two outstanding leaders at the 30th Annual Business & Labor Recognition Reception at The Grove in Cedar Grove on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Sam Ferraino, Jr., (center) and Joseph S. Colalillo (right) will be honored at the 30th Annual Business & Labor Recognition Reception at The Grove in Cedar Grove on Tuesday, March 7, 2023. Ferraino served on the Woodbury City Council and the Woodbury School Board and is a member of the board of trustees of the United Way of New Jersey, a vice president of the Work Environment Council, and an executive board member of the Industrial Union Council and the Union Organization for Social Service. He resides in Woodbury. Joseph Colalillo has served as chairman of the board of Wakefern Food Corp. since 2005. Wakefern is the largest retailer-owned... Read more →

Black History Month Panel Examines Facets of the African Diaspora February 20, 2023 (LAWNSIDE, N.J.) — Grace Temple Baptist Church will host “Many Ships, Same Boat: An Afro-Diasporic Dialog,” on Saturday, February 25 at 2 p.m. at the church, 15 East Charleston Ave. The program is free and open to the public. Rev. Dr. Charles L. McNeil, senior pastor, will moderate the discussion bridging Africa and the Americas with sixth panelists. They are: Dr. Doreen Loury, retired Pan-African studies professor, Arcadia University The Rev. Timothy Merrill, founder Watu Moja, Camden The Rev. Dr. Ernest Bebang, Cameroonian pastor Prophetess Audrey Maison, Ghanaian missionary and entrepreneur Anna-Kay Thomas, college administrator and second-generation Jamaican American Royston Wright, international aid monitor and evaluator from Sierra Leone The program’s title was inspired by the Rev. Dr. Martin Luther King’s famed quote: “We may have all come on different ships, but we’re in the same boat... Read more →

DirecTV Still Stiffing Newsmax Bill Donohue President Catholic League for Religious and Civil Rights On January 25, the same day that Newsmax announced that it had been unjustly sacked by the AT&T-owned DirecTV, I called on Catholics to rally to its side. Specifically, I asked them to cancel their subscription to DirecTV and acquire a new carrier. DepositPhotos.com Subsequently, I was followed by a host of prominent Americans who registered their criticism of DirecTV, many of whom called for a boycott. Politicians, corporate leaders, TV personalities, sports figures, actors, lawyers, religious leaders—a Who’s Who of American public figures—lambasted DirecTV, calling on them to carry Newsmax again. It’s time to keep the pressure on. If you haven’t already cancelled your DirecTV subscription, please do so now. Not only is Newsmax a Catholic-friendly source, it is the nation’s fourth largest cable television news network. To be singled out for political reasons is... Read more →

New Jersey’s Catholic Bishops gather Bishop Dennis Sullivan, pictured next to Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archdiocese of Newark, left, joined the Catholic bishops and archbishops of New Jersey for the quarterly Board of Bishops meeting on Feb. 7 at the Saint John Neumann Pastoral Center in Piscataway. In addition to Bishop Sullivan and Cardinal Tobin, New Jersey’s bishops are Bishop James F. Checchio, Diocese of Metuchen; Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., Diocese of Trenton; Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney, Diocese of Paterson; and Bishop Kurt Burnette, Eparchy of Passaic. (Photo courtesy of the Diocese of Metuchen) Read more →

Dear Friends in Christ, With a heavy heart, I have seen deep pain and suffering within Saint Hubert’s community over the past few days. I share in your shock and deep disappointment that students from your school would not only engage in racist behavior but also share it broadly on social media. As I’ve said many times, racism is a mortal sin and an attack on the integrity of God’s most precious gift, that of human life. Racism is a vile evil. It has no place in our hearts, our lives, our Church, or our schools. Those responsible will face severe disciplinary consequences. The recent actions of a few have ripped open deep wounds in your school and our community at large. I know in my heart that what recently took place does not represent who you are or what you stand for. All those working at Saint Hubert’s strive... Read more →