Bishop David M. O'Connell, C.M., was released from the Cardiac Care Unit of Santo Spirito Hospital in Rome Jan. 9. He is expected to return to New Jersey later this week as planned with the priests of the Diocese who had been on pilgrimage. He will continue his recovery, along with rehabilitation, at home upon his return.
Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., suffered a heart attack on Thursday Jan. 4, while in Rome just ahead of the start of the priest pilgrimage. just ahead of the start of the priest pilgrimage.
Aimed at fighting poverty both domestically and abroad – including within the four counties of the Diocese – CCHD collection coincides with the Church’s celebration of the seventh annual World Day of the Poor.
“I am humbled by the support of my brother bishops and I hope and pray I can be of service to the Church and its educational mission.” So said Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., upon learning that he was elected chair of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Catholic Education Nov. 14. Catholic bishops from throughout the United States are gathering in Baltimore for their fall plenary assembly from Nov. 13-16 during which they will have time for prayer, Mass and to discuss and vote on a number of issues pertaining to the Church in the United States. A high point of the assembly will be the bishops electing a new secretary and chairmen for six standing committees, of which the Committee on Catholic Education is one.
Spurred by the recent terrorist attack against innocent civilians of Israel and the escalating violence it has unleashed, Pope Francis has issued a call for a day of fasting, penance and prayer for peace in the world on Oct. 27.