Our beautiful statue of Mary, generously donated by a faithful parishioner, was blessed during the Family Mass in October. Once the custom cabinet is completed, the statue will sit inside the new Rosary Chapel.
In the Catholic tradition, Mary is often venerated as the Advocate who intercedes on our behalf. She anticipates our requests, knows our needs and quickly comes to our aid.* We can turn to her for inspiration and guidance. For women experiencing unplanned pregnancy, having access to compassionate care and a supportive advocate can make the difference in their choosing life.
In mid-October, members of CTK for Life enjoyed A Night of Hope at The Merion in Cinnaminson. Parishioners Jen McHugh-Barker, MD, Marilyn Schiffman, and Julia Schanne attended the fundraising dinner along with Fr. Jon. The funds raised supported Options for Her, which provides no-cost resources, support, and medical services such as pregnancy testing and ultrasound to pregnant women in crisis at offices in Cherry Hill, Trenton, and Ocean City. In his remarks, the board chair said, “We seek not to make abortion illegal, but rather unthinkable.”
The keynote speaker was Dr. William Lile, a native of New Jersey, who is an obstetrician-gynecologist in Pensacola, Florida. Summarizing Dr. Lile’s presentation, Fr. Jon shared, “In a funny and informative presentation, he made the case that the variety of fetal surgeries now possible – that is, surgeries on fetuses in utero – means the unborn children are patients and, therefore, persons with rights under state patient protection laws. I have never heard that argument before.”
The Feast of the Immaculate Conception, which we will celebrate this year on December 9 at 6:30 PM, reminds us that we are called to be stewards of God’s grace. Mary’s examples of discipleship, holiness, and advocacy inspire us to continually strengthen our relationship with Christ and challenge us to say “yes” to God’s plan.
*Catholic Steward.com
Spend time in our Rosary or Adoration Chapels this Advent season to begin your conversation with Mary and deepen your connection to Jesus.
Young at Heart
Photo of Mary Rose Martino and Mary Eileen Perhosky (right) at a recent Young at Heart luncheon.
As a lifelong member of Christ the King, my spiritual growth has benefitted from years of participation in parish life. Although I am now in the autumn of my life, I still desire to learn and grow in my discipleship. The monthly Young at Heart luncheons with enlightening and informative presenters allow me to connect with fellow parishioners and deepen my faith. Listening to Father Jon’s informative presentation in October on the tenets of the Catholic Church reinforced and energized my zeal for my faith. And for me, his effortless speaking style enhanced the meaningful message. Humor plays an important role, whether from the presenter or just among ourselves.
I always look forward to sharing my afternoon with the Young at Heart ministry.
Mary Eileen Kernagis Perhosky
Join us on Thursday, December 12, from 12-2PM as Christ the King School students gleefully sing the sounds of the season.
The Voice of Truth
Parishioners heard a celebratory message from Father Jon and were treated to a gourmet cookie after Mass on the Feast of Christ the King.
“As waves of nationalism and secularism were on the rise across the globe, Pope Pius XI instituted the Solemnity of Christ the King in 1925 as a reminder that Christ reigns above all earthly rulers. While temporal powers will fade away, Christ’s reign and his kingdom remain eternal.”* In 2009, Pope Benedict XVI noted, “It is in the very offering of himself in the sacrifice of expiation that Jesus becomes King of the universe. His sacrifice for all humanity reminds us to follow in his example and offer our hearts and lives in service of our fellow man.”
Last weekend, we celebrated the Feast of Christ the King, a significant day in our liturgical calendar that marks the end of the Church’s year. Father Jon enthusiastically shared with us the many ways our parishioners offer themselves to our King. Notably, the number of youth and young adults participating in service and worship opportunities, as reported in our 2024 fiscal year annual report, increases in Mass attendance, infant baptisms, and offertory donations. Collectively, we are showing up for God. Father Jon reminded us that we worship out of gratitude for what he God has done in us and for us. Further, he implored us to continually seek out Christ’s guidance, listen for his voice, and always amplify Christ’s voice.
*Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception
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