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Appeal to launch • New mask policies • Schools earn reaccreditation • Presidents' Day schedule
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February 18, 2022THE 2022 ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL, themed “What does love have to do with it … everything!” will be launched in most parishes of the Diocese Feb. 19-20.
In his video message introducing the Appeal, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., describes the theme as “compelling,” in light of the Gospel and Jesus’ mandate to love one another. Bishop O’Connell observes, “As we look around at today’s many challenges, it is obvious that we need more of God’s love, more than ever, as we ‘journey together.’
“Together we have come through two difficult years of a pandemic. We’ve seen love in action again and again and again during this time. And we – you and I – are still here, worshipping God, serving each other and those in need. That is a powerful testament to your love for God and his people,” the Bishop says, adding his thanks to the faithful “for whatever you can do.”
For more information on ways to give and to watch Bishop O’Connell’s video message, visit the Annual Catholic Appeal webpage HERE.
IN KEEPING WITH AN EXECUTIVE ORDER by New Jersey’s Governor that lifts statewide mask mandates inside schools and childcare facilities, Catholic schools and youth-based parish programs in the Diocese are preparing to follow suit. Information sent this week by the Diocese to all Catholic school administrators and parish religious education and youth ministry programs stated: “As of March 7, 2022, masks on employed adults are optional. This includes teaching staffs, members of administration and non-contract employees. Masks on children are optional as well.” For further details continue reading HERE.
AFTER A MULTI-YEAR PREPARATION EFFORT and an 18-month intensive evaluation process, 31 elementary and secondary Catholic schools in the Diocese of Trenton have been re-accredited through Cognia, an international firm that evaluates and issues findings on all manner of education outlets.
Described as the “gold standard” in the field by Dr. Vincent de Paul Schmidt, superintendent of Catholic schools, the Cognia re-accreditation of all parish and diocesan schools in the four counties of the Diocese is a seal of approval that has far-reaching implications. The confirmation was received by the Diocese Feb. 4.
Bishop O’Connell was interviewed for the evaluation process and contributed to the Diocese’s report on which the accreditation was based. He said of the experience, “Many people contributed to this successful effort. I congratulate and thank them, especially the excellent staff in our Department of Catholic Schools. We know the quality of our Catholic schools in the Diocese. This external recognition is a wonderful confirmation!”
Read more about this important accreditation HERE.
IN OBSERVANCE OF PRESIDENT’S DAY, Feb. 21, Chancery offices will be closed and staff will have the day off. Normal operations will resume at 9 a.m. Feb. 22.
