In December, over 100 parishioners gathered for our inaugural Plaza Christmas Tree Lighting, a joyful evening of faith, fellowship, and celebration.
2025 has been a year of remarkable growth for Christ the King. We are grateful to have 14 dedicated employees across our pastoral and business teams. Most notably, we welcomed Kate Braunstein as our full-time Coordinator of Evangelization, supporting the growth of our youth and young adult ministries. The youth of our parish continue to inspire hope for the future of the Catholic Church. Forty serve faithfully in liturgical ministries, and forty more participate in music ministry. Teen Mass, held on the third Sunday of each month at 6 PM, regularly draws about 25 teens.
Our robust Religious Education program serves over 600 students. Throughout the year, when extra hands are needed for office mailings, event logistics, or retreat preparations, our young parishioners generously step forward to help carry out our mission.
Building on the momentum of our local mission with the Sisters of Saint Joseph Neighborhood Center (SSJNC), CTK’s leadership has committed to sponsoring the Center for a third year. While details are still being finalized, we are hopeful that this continued partnership will bring new resources, connections, and hope to a community in need. Last week, when Father Jon and Cheryl Judge met with S. Bonnie, SSJ, Director of the SSJNC, to present our 2025 #iGIVECATHOLIC $18,775 donation check, she expressed heartfelt gratitude to our parishioners. A recently secured grant allowed the Center to purchase a van for collecting “Retail Rescue” donations and delivering resources to those in need. S. Bonnie also hopes to secure corporate sponsorships, noting that the Center’s leadership does not yet have strong connections with Camden’s business community.
2025 was also a busy year for our business and facilities offices. We completed the front entrance accessibility project and enhanced campus security. Looking ahead to 2026, we plan to pursue a federal grant to upgrade the church’s generators, improve network capabilities, and explore additional security enhancements.
Our clergy nourish our spiritual lives through active parish and school involvement. Deacon Mike offers a monthly Holy Hour, inviting all to Eucharistic Adoration. Father Carlo engages with the school community and brings joy wherever he goes. Father Jon, balancing parish and diocesan responsibilities, continues to be present sacramentally and pastorally, visiting parishioners, supporting staff, and offering guidance and prayer. Christ the King is not just a place we gather, it is a spiritual home rooted in faith, service, and love. We invite all to join us in the coming year as we grow, serve, and witness Christ together.
The Stewardship Office