The Monitor

Newspaper of the Diocese of Trenton, serving the Catholic community in Burlington, Mercer, Monmouth and Ocean Counties.

“We begin anew at Christmas.” With these words, Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M., issues his annual Christmas message and opens The Monitor’s special Christmas issue.  Bishop O’Connell reflects on his recent pilgrimage to the Basilica of Our Lady of Guadalupe near Mexico City and highlights the unique and essential role of the Blessed Mother in the lives of all who believe in her son.
Beyond the Bishop’s message, the Dec. 13 issue brings pages of Advent and Christmas inspiration … acts of service to those in need; the magic of music and song during these weeks of preparation and celebration; ways that parishes animate the Christmas story involving even the youngest parishioners, and interviews with diocesan priests about the need to cultivate joy as we commemorate Christ’s birth.
The latest issue of The Monitor also brings you a special bi-lingual insert capturing the Diocese’s moving celebration of Our Lady of Guadalupe in advance of her Feast Day Dec. 12.  A collection of beautiful photos and moving stories takes you from the streets of Trenton where more than thousand prayed, danced and sang, to the hills outside Mexico City where some 40 men and women traveled on pilgrimage to honor Our Lady. 
More news not to miss:

• Paterson’s retired Bishop Frank J. Rodimer remembered; Cure D’Ars’ relic can help Church heal; Anti-hunger bills advance; preparing for March for Life.
• The Bishop’s latest Young Saint Series installment highlights St. Jose Sanchez del Rio; Students of Mater Dei Prep have video against hate shown at United Nations.
• In SPORTS, Notre Dame HS coach steps down after 50 years; St. John Vianney HS football star befriends a Korean War veteran.

The Dec. 13 print edition has been mailed to subscribers, and the e-edition is available now at www.TrentonMonitor.com. Not a subscriber? Learn more and subscribe to the print or digital edition of The Monitor, HERE.

• Travelers reflect on moving moments from Mexico pilgrimage with Bishop
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• Bishop O'Connell's Young Saint Series - St. José Sánchez del Río
   
• Notre Dame HS coach stepping down after 50 years
   

• Hope, lying in a manger, is the reason for joy, even during difficult times