Welcome to the Church of Saint James - Saint James Church

Parish Office(908) 766-0888Fax: (908) 766-1815THE CHURCH OF SAINT JAMES184 South Finley AvenueBasking Ridge, New Jersey 07920www.saintjamesbr.org • stjamesbr@optonline.netSaint James School200 South Finley Avenue(908) 766-4774School of Religion200 South Finley Avenue(908) 766-1227Rev. Glenn J. Comandini, S.T.D.PastorRev. Msgr. William J. CapikPastor EmeritusRev. Dario EndiapeParochial VicarRev. Brian Clarke, O.S.B.Weekend Visiting PriestDeacon James S. BellPastoral Assistant EmeritusDeacon Luke J. HallyPastoral AssistantJeremiah KennySchool PrincipalPatty Del ReParish Catechetical LeaderKaren SutherlandDirector of MusicJoyce RussellOrganistMary CorbetFatima GoncalvesAdministrative AssistantsCristina ImparatoYouth MinisterRenee PascarellaBusiness AdministratorDebi MurrayDirector of Social ConcernsYouth Center(908) 766-1183marymagpray4me@aol.comMASS SCHEDULESunday: 7:30 a.m., 9:00 a.m.,10:30 a.m. and NoonMonday: 7:00 a.m.Tuesday: 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.Wednesday: 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.Thursday: 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.Friday: 7:00 a.m. and 8:00 a.m.Saturday: 8:00 a.m. and 5:30 p.m.SACRAMENT OF RECONCILIATIONSaturday: 4:00-5:00 p.m. andby appointment.SACRAMENT OF BAPTISMSunday: 1:15 p.m. by appointment onlySACRAMENT OF MARRIAGERegistered parishioners may apply formarriage at the parish office one year inadvance of the desired wedding date.PASTORAL CARE OF THE SICKPlease call the parish office if you wouldlike a priest to visit, or to arrange forCommunion to the sick or homebound.2

A Letter from the PastorDear Parishioners,When I first arrived as Pastor in 2005, I was astounded by the number ofministries and organizations at Saint James Church. As a EucharisticCommunity, we view faith as something that involves the entire person, not justthe soul. Accordingly, in addition to Liturgical Ministries, we have groups that areoriented toward a deepening understanding of the Scriptures. Many of ourparishioners are involved in learning to lead a more fruitful prayer life andexploring Catholic spirituality. And since we engage in all activities not onlywith our souls and our minds, but also with our bodies, there are severalorganizations which are service oriented. In a word, Saint James Church is a bigparish with an even bigger heart.It is obvious to me that the people of this faith community do not limittheir time here to worship alone; rather, there is a concerted effort amongthese incarnate spirits to make known what they believe once they leave thenave of the church. It is my hope, then, that as you peruse the pages of thishandbook, you will feel comfortable enough to call a contact person of a particularministry or organization and, even better, to sit in on meetings of the groupswhich most interest you. The time, talent and treasure that you bring will, nodoubt, make our parish family even better than it already is.If discipleship of the Lord Jesus is to lead us to build the Kingdom of God byword and deed, then, surely, we must all commit ourselves, body, mind andsoul, to begin here, in Bernards Township, where the call to make known theLove of God is just as great as it is in the poorest areas of the world. Let usmake known God’s Love, manifest in the person of Jesus—and let us do itnow!Read this booklet with fervor. Discover a ministry which appeals to youwith zeal. Welcome to the Church of Saint James, where there is somethingfor everyone!Sincerely yours in Christ,Father Glenn3

ContentsMass Schedule ...................................................................................2Parish Staff ........................................................................................2Sacraments.........................................................................................2A Letter from the Pastor...................................................................3History of Saint James Parish...........................................................6Reverend Joseph A.B. Wade...........................................................7Reverend Monsignor William J. Capik...........................................8Assistant Pastors.............................................................................9MEET OUR CLERGYReverend Glenn John Comandini, S.T.D..........................................10Reverend Dario Endiape ...................................................................11Reverend Brian Clarke, O.S.B ...........................................................11Deacon James S. Bell.........................................................................12Deacon Luke J. Hally.........................................................................13CONTACTS AT A GLANCE .............................................................14-17Pastoral Council.................................................................................18Liturgical MinistriesExtraordinary Ministers of the Eucharist........................................18Altar Servers......................................................................................18Lectors................................................................................................18Music Ministry..................................................................................18Ushers.................................................................................................19Children’s Liturgy of the Word.........................................................19Children’s Mass..................................................................................19Special Worship and DevotionsEucharistic Adoration........................................................................21Rosary.................................................................................................21Rosary Altar Society..........................................................................21Divine Office......................................................................................21Miraculous Medal Novena................................................................22Charismatic Prayer Group.................................................................22Prayer Chain.......................................................................................22evangelization and enrichmentEvangelization Council......................................................................22Stewardship Committee....................................................................23Rite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)..................................23Pastoral Council.................................................................................23Bible Study.........................................................................................23Cursillo...............................................................................................24Marriage Encounter...........................................................................24Pre-Cana.............................................................................................244

Faith Sharing for Women .................................................................25Women’s Ministry.............................................................................25Men of Saint James...........................................................................25Social ConcernsOffice of Social Concerns...................................................................25Adopt-a-Parish ..................................................................................26Share Your Bread ...............................................................................26Community Soup Kitchen and Outreach Center.............................27Helping Hands...................................................................................27Friendly Visitors / Shoppers ............................................................27Respect for Life..................................................................................27Transportation Group ......................................................................29Service groupsSaint James Home School Association.............................................29Knights of Columbus, Council #2393...............................................29Men of Charity...................................................................................30Blankets of Blessings ........................................................................30Wellness and CompassionBereavement Support Group............................................................30Parish Nurses ....................................................................................30Youth GroupsSchool of Religious Education/Vacation Bible School........................................................................31Boy Scouts of America,Cub Scout Pack 55 (Patriots’ Path Council)......................................32Girl Scouts USA (Heart of New Jersey Council)...............................32CYM Basketball..................................................................................33Moms and Tots .................................................................................33Little Lights .......................................................................................33Youth Ministry ..................................................................................34High School Sharing ......................................................................34Antioch...........................................................................................34Social GroupsFellowship Coffee Hour.....................................................................34Saints Joachim and Anne Society.....................................................35Top of the Hill Gang ..........................................................................35Annual EventsLenten Soup Supper .........................................................................35Interfaith Hospitality Network.........................................................36Parish Picnic ......................................................................................36Blessing of the Animals.....................................................................36Parish Golf Outing.............................................................................365

History of Saint James ParishSaint James Church may be called the mother of churches in northernSomerset County, since it has spawned churches and missions in Bernardsville,Far Hills, Peapack-Gladstone, Martinsville and Mount Bethel.From Mass in private homes in pre-Revolutionary War times to a strikingcomplex of church, rectory, school and convent; from a few families to morethan 3,400; from 85 seats in the first church to space for 450 people in thesecond church (now chapel) to the new church with seating for 1,000; andfrom occasional weekly Mass to one on Saturday and four on Sunday.As early as 1758, a Jesuit priest traveled on horseback into Basking Ridgeon his way to and from Philadelphia. He would hear confessions, baptize,celebrate Mass, preach a sermon, give Communion, perform marriages, andthen continue on to another town. Baptismal records refer to the area as“Bascon Ridge.”In 1853, Basking Ridge Catholics were placed under care of Saint Vincent’s inMadison. Church property was purchased in 1859 on the lower end of SouthMaple Avenue and Henry Street. It included almost a third of an acre and a125-year old carpenter shop, which was renovated into a church to seat 85people.Saint James was incorporated October 20, 1864 by the Most Reverend JamesRoosevelt Bayley, DD., a second cousin of President Franklin D. Rooseveltand also a cousin of the 20th century saint, Mother Elizabeth Bayley Seton.Incorporation papers read “baskinridge.”Saint James was a mission of the Church of the Assumption in Morristown until1873; it then shared pastors as well as the chalice, buckboard wagon, horse andharness with Saint Joseph’s in Mendham. By 1948, Saint James had become anestablished parish with two missions, at Mount Bethel and Martinsville, nowboth separate parishes. In January 1982, Saint James became part of the newDiocese of Metuchen.Pastors in the 20th century have included the Reverends Joseph A. Ryan1898-1914; William I. McKean, 1914-1948; Edward J. Draus, 1948-1954;Gerald J. Griffin, 1954-1957; and A. B. Wade, 1957-1981. On May 1, 1981,Reverend Monsignor William J. Capik was appointed pastor of Saint Jamesand served for 24 years until his retirement on July 1, 2005. Reverend GlennComandini was officially appointed pastor by Bishop Paul Bootkowski onOctober 16, 2005.6

Reverend Joseph A.B. WadeThe Reverend Joseph A.B. Wade wasborn and raised in the coastal townof New Bedford, MA. Father Wadeearned his BA in Education from ProvidenceCollege in Rhode Island and was prepared tostudy for a Masters degree at Boston Collegewhen he decided to enter the seminary. Heattended the Lady of the Angels seminary atNiagara University in Niagara, New Yorkand was ordained a priest June 3, 1944, atSaint Mary’s Cathedral in Trenton.He served as the assistant pastor in a number of churches in New Jersey,including Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Bernardsville, Our Lady of the Lakein Medford, Saint Joachim in Trenton, Sacred Heart in South Plainfield, andSaint Peter’s in New Brunswick before he was named administrator of theSaint James Church in October 1957.Then 93 years old, the parish had only a converted cobbler’s shop on South MapleAvenue for its church. Seven months later, on May 31, 1958, Saint Jamesembarked on an ambitious building program that saw completion of a 500-seatchurch, a rectory and a 16-classroom school on South Finley Avenue. It was atthat time that Father Wade was made pastor of the parish.When he celebrated his 25 th year in the priesthood in 1969, Father Wade jokedthat there was some criticism when the church was built. “Some called it a cathedraland everyone thought it was foolish to have such a large structure. … Todaywe realize we’ve underbuilt,” he said in a feature story in The Bernardsville News.It was in the same story that he acknowledged that sometimes, a priest’s life is alonely one. “But it is all made worthwhile when you bring someone to the sacramentswho has been away for many years, or when you see the feeling of peacecome over the face of a dying person who has been anointed.”He never lost his love for the sea, visiting the shore whenever time permitted,and in 1981 retired to Point Pleasant where he lived until he fell ill in 1988. Hedied Sunday, November 20, 1988, at the McCarrick Care Center in Somerset atthe age of 74.“The testimony to him is what he left here, the Saint James complex,” said MonsignorCapik. “He left a piece of God here.”7

Reverend MonsignorWilliam J. CapikBorn in Perth Amboy, N.J. MonsignorCapik attended HolyTrinity High School in PerthAmboy. He then went to Saint CharlesSchool Seminary and Saint Mary’s Seminaryin Baltimore where he received a Bachelorof Arts degree. He earned his Baccalaureatein Sacred Theology and Licentiate in SacredTheology from Saint Mary’s, Roland Park-Baltimore. Monsignor Capik also holds aMaster of Science in School Administration from Fordham University.He was involved in Catholic education in the Dioceses of Trenton andMetuchen for more than 15 years as a teacher and as an administrator.Monsignor was ordained June 4, 1955, at Saint Mary’s Cathedral, Trenton.During the summer of 1955, he served at Saint Ann’s in Hampton,and from 1955 to 1957 at Saint Anthony’s in Hightstown. He taught atNotre Dame High School from 1957 to 1967, and then served as principalof Holy Cross High School in Riverside from 1967 to 1972. From 1972 to1974, he served at Saint Michael’s Church in Trenton, and from 1974 to1981 as Pastor of Saint Peter’s Church in New Brunswick. In April, 1979Monsignor was named a Prelate of Honor of His Holiness the Pope.Monsignor served as the first Vicar for Education for the Diocese ofMetuchen from 1981 to 1985, and as Chairman of the Board of Saint Peter’sUniversity Hospital. He also currently serves on the boards of McCarrickCare Center Partners in Care, Family Practice Center, Saint Peter’sFoundation and the New Brunswick Affiliated Hospitals.In May, 1981, Monsignor became Pastor of Saint James Church. During histenure, the parish grew from 800 to 3,400 families. He oversaw the additionof a gymnasium to Saint James School and the construction of a newchurch. He was also instrumental in the establishment of a group home fordevelopmentally disabled adults adjacent to the church property.He retired in 2005 after 24 years of service to Saint James parish.8

Assistant PastorsReverend Father Gregory ToftReverend Father Thomas Moore 1988-1989Reverend Father Robert Meyers 1989-1990Reverend Father Raymond Leonard 1990-1993Reverend Father Timothy Lambert 1993-1995Reverend Father John Primich 1995-1998Reverend Father Jonathan “Jay” Toborowsky 1998-2003Reverend Father Sean Kenney 2003-2005Reverend Father George Farrell 2005-2007Reverend Father Dario Endiape 2007- present9

10Reverend Glenn JohnComandini, S.T.D.Reverend Glenn John Comandini wasborn September 19, 1956, in Plainfield,NJ. His parents, Terry and John Comandini,reside in Charlotte, NC. He has two brothers,Eric of Flemington, and Thomas of OceanTownship. Father Glenn also has four nephewsand a niece. He was raised in Branchburg, graduatedfrom Somerville High School, and earneda Bachelor of Arts degree in Spanish and Frenchsumma cum laude from Montclair State Universityin 1978. That same year, he was the recipient of a Fulbright-Hayes TeachingAssistantship to France where he taught English grammar and AmericanCivilization at the Lycee Joffre in Montpellier.He received a Master of Art degree in French from the University of New Mexico. Itwas during this time in the desert that Father Glenn discerned his vocation to thepriesthood.In 1986, after four years at Mount Saint Mary’s Seminary in Emmitsburg, MD,he earned the Master of Divinity and a Master of Arts degree in Theology, was ordaineda priest, and assigned to advanced studies in Systematic Theology at the PontificalGregorian University in Rome, where he successfully defended his doctoralthesis on May 26, 1990.He was appointed Parochial Vicar of Our Lady of Perpetual Help in Bernardsvilleby then Bishop Hughes. In 1992, he became Pastor of Saint Stephen ProtomartyrChurch in South River, Chaplain for the fire department, and part-time teacher atSeton Hall and the College of Saint Elizabeth. He taught the Spanish tract of the theologycourses required by the diaconate formation of the Diocese of Metuchen.In 1998, then Bishop Breen assigned Father Glenn to be Episcopal Vicar for the Cityof Perth Amboy and Pastor of Our Lady of the Most Holy Rosary in Hopelawn, wherehe served as Chaplain for the Perth Amboy Police Department and introduced a Spanish/Frenchprogram into the curriculum of the Perth Amboy Catholic School. In 2001,he began teaching religious studies at Saint John’s University in New York.Father Glenn has held many positions in the Diocese of Metuchen including Chairmanof the Commission for Ecumenism, Director of the Office for Multicultural Ministries,Bishop’s Delegate on the Ethics Committee of Saint Peter’s University Hospital,Censor Librorum Chair of the Hispanic Commission and Chair of the TheologicalCommission.He succeeded Monsignor Capik as Pastor of Saint James Church in July2005.

Reverend Dario EndiapeReverend Father Dario Endiapecame to Saint James Parish fromthe Philippines in 2007. He wasborn in Quezon Province on December 18,1965, to Dario and Ligaya Endiape. FatherDario has seven siblings.He attended Saint Francis DeSales Seminaryin the Archdiocese of Lipa, and Saint AlphonsusSchool of Theology where he received a Bachelorof Arts degree in Philosophy. In 2009 FatherDario celebrated his 16 th year of ordination.Father Dario is an extern, a Canonical term used to describe a priest who,with the permission of his Ordinary, Bishop Emilio Marquez, is workingoutside of the diocese to which he is incardinated. He is one of eight priestsfrom the Diocese of Lucena who are working in New Jersey, thanks to hisbishop who, blessed with a bumper crop of vocations, is willing to share hisharvest with Sees like our own, which are, presently, suffering from a vocationaldrought.Reverend Brian Clarke, O.S.BFather Brian was born in Newark on June21, 1930, the second of four children ofPatrick and Catherine Clarke. He attendedSaint Peter’s Grammar School, Saint Benedict’sPrep School, and then Saint Vincent College inLatrobe, PA, where he earned a Bachelor of Artsdegree in Philosophy. He studied Theology atSaint Mary’s School of Theology in Morristownwhile teaching at Delbarton School.After ordination to the priesthood in 1958, FatherBrian taught English at Saint Benedict’sPrep School in Newark and assisted on weekendsat Saint Peter’s in Belleville and Saint Michael’s in Cranford. In 1964,Father was assigned to Saint Benedict’s in the Down Neck section of Newark,and then to Sacred Heart in Wilmington, DE, also serving as a hospitalchaplain.He was appointed Novice Master for Saint Mary’s Abbey inMorristown in 1967, while earning a Master of Arts degree in EnglishEducation. He was appointed Prior of Saint Mary’s Abbey in 1972. From11

1967 until 1975, he assisted on weekends at Saint Joseph’s Parish in HighBridge, and helped the pastor with his duties as chaplain at the AnnandaleReformatory.Father Brian was elected Abbot of Saint Mary’s Abbey in 1975, serving as thepresident of Delbarton School. He continued in this role until 1995. He assistedat Our Lady of Mount Carmel in Cedar Knolls before undertaking a year of sabbaticalstudies in Dublin, Ireland and Ein Karim, Israel, returning in 1997. Heassisted at Christ the King in New Vernon on weekends, and resumed teachingat Delbarton. Father Brian joined Saint James in Basking Ridge in 1998 and continuesto offer Mass every weekend.Deacon James S. BellDeacon Jim was ordained on May13, 1978, in the Diocese of Trenton,three years before the establishmentof the Diocese of Metuchen, andwas assigned to his home parish of SaintJames.He retired from ordinary active ministry inFebruary 2005, and remains a deacon, retainingthe faculties, rights and obligationshe received at his ordination.He served in several diocesan assignmentsincluding Associate Director of the Deaconate, Director of Social Action, Vicarfor Charities and Social Ministry and as Chairman of the Board of CatholicCharities. Since the diocese was formed, he has served on a number of commissions,councils and committees. He is a recipient of the Pro Ecclesia EtPontifice Papal Award and the Regina Nostra Diocesan Award. His wife, Kathy,served as Associate Director of the Deaconate/Wives of Deacons and Candidatesfor 17 years.Deacon Jim was born in Jerseyville, IL, and served in the Navy during WorldWar II. He attended Shurtliff College in Alton, IL, and Washington Universityin Saint Louis, MO. He was employed by Illinois Bell Telephone Companyand later transferred to the parent company AT&T in Basking Ridge.He retired as Division Manager-Public Relations to give more time to hisministry.Jim and Kathy have been married for 59 years. They have two children, fivegrandchildren, and two great grandchildren. He enjoys eading, writing, andspending quality time with Kathy.12

Deacon Luke J. HallyDeacon Luke was ordained in theRockville Center Diocese on May31, 1980. He received his theologicaltraining at Immaculate ConceptionSeminary in Huntington, LongIsland. He served at Saint Elizabeth’s inSouth Huntington, from May 1980 to February1983, when he started his ministry atSaint James.In addition to serving at Masses, Deacon Lukegives homilies, administers Baptisms everythird Sunday, runs the RCIA program, serves as Chaplain for the Men of Charity,and has served on the Diocesan Deaconate Advisory Board and on the DeaconatePersonnel Board for 17 years. He was Deaconate Director from 1996 to 2000.He also works with the divorced/separated, witnesses marriages and performsparaliturgical services at the request of the pastor.Deacon Luke and his wife, Maureen, have been married for 47 years and raisedthree daughters (Deirdre, Mary Alice and Tara), all of whom are married. TheHally’s have been blessed with eight grandchildren. Maureen is a registerednurse, and is a certified Healing Touch practitioner, as well as a certified OccupationalHealth nurse.Deacon Luke was born in Manhattan and raised in Queens. He graduatedfrom Augustinian Academy in Staten Island and has a B.A. from VillanovaUniversity/Saint John’s University. He did graduate work at New York University(Accounting) and Stamford University (Engineering). He was a DivisionManager at the New York Telephone Company, Senior Vice President atEdward S. Gordon, and Executive Vice President of CORE Planning at BellCommunications Research. Deacon Luke has been retired since December1992, devoting himself to his ministry on a full-time basis. His hobbies includegolf and reading.13

Contacts at a GlanceLiturgical MinistriesExtraordinary Ministers of the EucharistKathy Bell • (908) 647-2500Altar ServersDonna & Scott Nafie • (908) 766-4124LectorsJack McArtney • (908) 696-1829 • jmca@verizon.netMusic MinistryKaren Sutherland • (908) 766-9680 • jcsuth3@aol.comUshersDonald Lorenz • (908) 647-5025 • pdlorenz@optonline.netChildren’s Liturgy of the WordMichele Fabbio • (908) 630-0963 • michele.fabbio@yahoo.comSpecial Worship and DevotionEucharistic AdorationCecille Zalamea • (908) 350-3550 • cecillez@gmail.comRosary Altar SocietyMary Corbet • (908) 766-0888 • mcorbet@aol.comCharismatic Prayer GroupMary Margaret Yula • (908) 766-4498 • joshua1nine@optonline.netPrayer ChainSherry Bock • (908) 658-9073 •sherryplus@optonline.netEvangelization and Enrichmentevangelization councilMary Duhaime • (908) 766-8950 • maryduhaime@verizon.netRite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)Deacon Luke Hally • (908) 766-0888, X5 • hally1@optonline.netBible Study14

Patricia Lorenz • (908) 647-5025 • pdlorenz@optonline.netCursilloAndrew Chabak • (908) 221-9398 • machab@optonline.netMarriage EncounterJoan Jackson • (908) 580-1878 • joanpjackson@yahoo.comPre-CanaAndrea & Lou Chiafullo • (908) 542-1674 • achiafullo@optonline.netFaith Sharing for womenJoan Rosenburg • (908) 903-0233 • jorose331@aol.comWomen’s MinistryRegina DePrima • (908) 580-9894 • reginadeprima@verizon.netMen of Saint JamesTerry Conley • (973) 464-5536 • terryconley@me.comSocial ConcernsDirector of social concernsDebi Murray • (908) 334-6778 • debra.murray830@yahoo.comAdopt-a-ParishCathy & Harvey Homan • (908) 696-8976 • cathy_homan@yahoo.comShare Your BreadGeorge Jonovich • (908) 647-2784 • jonog@verizon.netCommunity Soup Kitchen and outreach centerPatricia Klarin • (908) 647-0321 • psklarin@yahoo.comHelping HandsRose Salaki • (908) 221-1013 • rose@salaki.comFriendly Visitors / ShoppersSusan Bryant • 908-647-9630 • bryant149@verizon.netrespect for lifeKerri Shannon • (908) 309-7376 • KGSMP@aol.com and15

Tracey Frost • keylady1@verizon.netTransportation GroupFrank Eustace • (908) 542-1192 • fjeustace@optimum.comMen of CharityMark Balzarotti • (908) 340-4117 • mark@jettron.comKnights of Columbus, Council #2393Al LiCata • (908) 766-6163 • ren1co@aol.comService GroupsSaint James Home School AssociationSuzanne Asmar • (908) 334-8581 • sueee35@aol.comStewardship CommitteeEileen and Mike Gavagan • (908) 647-4936 • egavagan@optonline.netBlankets of BlessingsDeb Knapp • (908) 647-0617 • debmy4suns@yahoo.comWellness and CompassionBereavement Support GroupSusan Picarro • (908) 306-1259 • spofpaohnj@aol.comParish NursesSue Abely • (908) 204-9677 • abely@optonline.netYouth GroupsSchool of Religious Education/VacationBible SchoolPatty Del Re • (908) 766-1227 • stjamesccd@yahoo.comBoy Scouts of America, Cub Scout Pack 55(Patriots’ Path Council)George Kohl • (908) 766-0501 • ghkohljr@aol.comGirl Scouts USA (Heart of New Jersey Council)Robin Gehringer • (908) 221-9258 • hughrob@msn.comCYM BasketballGene Moretti • (908) 221-1766 • emoretti@att.com16

Moms and TotsLori Kendis • (908) 766-3591 • sharkmars@aol.comLittle LightsDarlene Dobry • (908) 647-1600 • ddobry@verizon.netYouth Ministry / High School Sharing / AntiochCristina Imparato • (908) 766-1183 • marymagpray4me@aol.comSocial GroupsFeLlowship Coffee HourHelen Johnson • (908) 766-4691 • perryhelenjohnson@verizon.netSaints Joachim and Anne SocietyJanet Paglia • (973) 425-0778Top of the Hill GangJohn Durso • (908) 647-2118Annual EventsLenten Soup SupperSandy & Jim Furst • (908) 221-1144 • jsfurst@aol.comInterfaith Hospitality NetworkJill Potdevin • (908) 626-1699 • jpotdevin@chubb.comParish PicnicMarcy Chabak • (908) 221-9398 • machab@optonline.netParish Golf OutingDeacon Luke Hally • (908) 766-0888 x 5 • hally1@optonline.net17

pastoral councilThe Pastoral Council encompasses the leaders or chairs of all parish ministriesand organizations under the direction of the Pastor. This advisory body servesa twofold purpose: it is a “think tank” for the Pastor and it provides an opportunityfor the lay leaders to network, exchange ideas and update each other inorder to more effectively assess and respond to the needs of the parish family.The Council meets quarterly.Liturgical MinistriesEXTRAORDINARY MINISTERS OF THE EUCHARISTEucharistic Ministers assist with the distribution of Holy Communion at liturgicalservices. They also bring the Eucharist to the sick and homebound within theparish boundaries, as directed by the pastor. This ministry is open to men andwomen who are exemplary Catholics, at least 18 years of age, and who have beenparishioners of Saint James Church for at least one year. Selected and appointedby the pastor, Eucharistic Ministers are mandated by the bishop for a period oftwo years (renewable). Candidates are trained at no cost.Kathy Bell • (908) 647-2500ALTAR SERVERSBoys and girls in grades 6 through 12 have the opportunity to learn more abouttheir faith and to begin to build a foundation for evangelization and stewardshipby serving at Mass and other liturgical functions. New servers are enrolled everyApril. Orientation for new servers and re-registration of trained servers takesplace in May; training sessions are offered in June.Donna and Scott Nafie • (908) 766-4124lectorsLectors proclaim the Word of God at Mass, mediating an encounter with God bymaking the text come alive for the listeners. Lectors read at all Masses on Sundays(and Vigils), Holy Days and weekdays, and are assigned to read regularly ata specific Mass, except Holiday and Holy Day Masses, for which schedules vary.Training is arranged as new lectors join the ministry, and occasional seminars orrefresher instruction opportunities are presented, usually once a year. All confirmedmembers of the parish are welcome to become lectors.Jack McArtney • (908) 696-1829 • jmca@verizon.netMusic MinistryComprised of three choirs and cantors, the Music Ministry leads worship serviceswith music and song at all weekend Masses (except 7:30 a.m.). By providinginspirational music that reinforces the Gospel message, the choirs invite18

more prayerful and active participation in the Liturgy. Praisers is the children’schoir, open to boys and girls in grades 4 through 8, meets on Thursdayevenings from 7:00 p.m. until 8:00 p.m. and sings at Mass once a month. Praiseand Worship has no set rehearsal schedule. This group sings contemporary sacredmusic, accompanied by guitar, tambourine and piano, once a month at Mass andis open to high school students and adults. The Adult Choir’s repertoire includestraditional hymns and liturgical songs, usually with organ or piano accompaniment.This choir meets on Thursday evenings, from 8:00 p.m. to 9:30 p.m. Whilecantors must be able to read music, anyone who can carry a tune and /or playan instrument is welcome to join a choir. The Saint James Music Ministry alsoentertains the community on occasion, presents a music festival in the springand a concert of Christmas music before the Midnight Mass on Christmas Eve.Lift up your voices! Making music is praying twice!Karen Sutherland • (908) 766-9680 • jcsuth3@aol.comUshersHospitality and organizational skills typify the ushers who greet parishionersat Mass, answer questions, assist with seating, arrange for Presentation of theGifts, take up the Offertory collection, distribute the Sunday Bulletin and “directtraffic” during Holy Communion. Ushers are assigned to one Mass each weekendand are encouraged to assist on Holy Days of Obligation and at special liturgicalevents. This ministry is open to all men, women, young adults and couples.Donald Lorenz • (908) 647-5025 • pdlorenz@optonline.netCHILDREN’S LITURGY OF THE WORDDuring the 9:00 a.m. Mass on Sundays during the academic year, children preschoolthrough grade 3 are invited to join adult volunteers to experience theGospel in a child-friendly format and environment. Seeds, for pre-schoolers, establishesa ritual for children, enabling them to develop a warm and loving firstmemory of the exercise of their faith. Good News, for children in Kindergartenthrough grade 3, engages the children in discussion and group activities designedto enhance their understanding of the Gospel message. Training is available foradult volunteers at no cost.Michele Fabbio • (908) 630-0963 • michele.fabbio@yahoo.comCHILDREN’S massThe 9:00 a.m. Mass on the fourth Sunday of each month (October through April)is a special child-centered liturgy at which children in Kindergarten through grade5 come together to worship, sing and pray while learning about the parts of theMass. Volunteers are needed to supervise the children. Parishioners in middle schoolthrough adult are urged to offer their assistance. Please note: the Children’s Massreplaces the Good News program on the fourth Sunday of the month. Seeds is in19

20Photo courtesy Paul Balinski

session as usual.Kathleen Hemmer • (908) 234-2466 • khemmer@optonline.comSpecial Worshipand DevotionsEucharistic AdorationSaint James is blessed with the opportunity to adore the Blessed Sacrament everyThursday in the chapel from 8:30 a.m. until 5:30 p.m. To insure that thereis always someone in the chapel during these hours, parishioners are invited tocommit to 30 minutes or an hour per week to spend in adoration and meditation,keeping peaceful, prayerful watch in the presence of Jesus in the Eucharist.Cecille Zalamea • (908) 350-3550 • cecillez@gmail.comRosaryThe rosary is recited everyday, Monday through Saturday, before the 7:00 a.m.Mass and after the 8:00 a.m. Mass as well as every Monday evening at 7:30 p.m.under the auspices of the Rosary Altar Society. Communal recitations are alsoheld in the chapel on Wednesday afternoons at 2:30 p.m. during the academicyear when school is in session, and in the church on Wednesday evenings at 7:30p.m. All are welcome to join together in prayer.divine office (liturgy of the hours)Liturgy of the Hours of Divine Office is the official set of daily prayers prescribedby the Catholic Church to be recited at the canonical hours by the clergy, religiousorders, and laity. The Liturgy of the Hours consists primarily of psalmssupplemented by hymns and readings. Together with the Mass, it constitutesthe official public prayer life of the Church. The complete Office includes MidnightMatins, Lauds (dawn), Prime (6:00 a.m.), Terce (9:00 a.m.), Sext (Noon),None (3:00 p.m.), Vespers (at twilight), Complin (before retiring). At SaintJames Church, the Lauds are prayed 15 minutes before the 7:00 a.m. and 8:00a.m. Masses, Monday through Saturday, during Advent and Lent.rosary altar societyEstablished in 1948, the Confraternity of the Rosary has as its purpose tohonor the Blessed Virgin Mary, and to secure her patronage through recitationof the rosary for the spiritual benefit of members worldwide. Members cometogether to recite the Rosary for Peace in the chapel every Monday eveningat 7:30 p.m. and enjoy monthly gatherings on the first Monday followingthe first Sunday of each month in the chapel auditorium. The Altar Society iscombined with the Rosary Society. Its mission is the care of the Lord’s sacredaltars. Responsibilities include ordering flowers, care and cleaning of altar linens(The Holy Wash) and vestments, as well as cleaning of the church and the chapelbefore Christmas and Easter. It also hosts Communion breakfasts, card parties21

and the annual Crowning of the Blessed Mother in May. Membership in the RosaryAltar Society is open to all adult women of the parish.Mary Corbet • (908) 766-0888 • mcorbet@aol.comMiraculous Medal NovenaThese novena prayers are recited after the 7:00 a.m. Mass every Monday.Booklets are available to encourage everyone to participate.Charismatic Prayer GroupThe Charismatic Prayer Group meets on the first Thursday of the month from7:30 p.m. until 9:00 p.m. in the Pastoral Center to pray, praise, worship and growthrough the Gifts of the Holy Spirit. All parishioners are invited to join. No specialpreparation is required but attending the Life in the Spirit Seminar will enhanceunderstanding and participation.Mary Margaret Yula • (908) 766-4498 • joshua1nine@optonline.netPrayer ChainThe email prayer chain is a community outreach to promote the power of prayerand create a bond of understanding between people who have suffered similarhardships or losses. All are invited to join the prayer chain and to request prayersfor special intentions.Sherry Bock • (908) 658-9073 • sherryplus@optonline.netEvangelization and Enrichmentevangelization councilThe Evangelization Council endeavors to bring the Gospel to the un-churched,inactive Catholics, and those in the community who would like to get more involvedin parish life but are not sure how to channel their talents and interests.The Council’s mission is to provide the tools and instruction that will enablethese souls to experience spiritual renewal, growth in holiness, identificationof spiritual gifts, and enthusiastic sharing of faith and witness to Christ in thehome, workplace, neighborhood and community. The goal is the empowermentthat results from discernment of individual charisms and recognition of a personalrole in the mission of the Catholic Assembly of Believers, making everyperson feel that his or her presence completes the Body of Christ, the People ofGod, the Church.Mary Duhaime • (908) 766-8950 • maryduhaime@verizon.net22

Stewardship CommitteeThe mission of the Stewardship Committee is to encourage all parishioners toparticipate actively in the life of the church family and to guide parishionerstowards compatible outlets for their God-given time and talent for the benefitof the parish and the surrounding community. The Stewardship Committeepublishes a Parish Handbook, hosts an annual Stewardship Fair, and conducts aWelcome To Saint James effort for new parishioners. All are welcome.Eileen and Mike Gavagan • (908) 647-4936 • egavagan@optonline.netRite of Christian Initiation for Adults (RCIA)RCIA is a nine-month process through which unbaptized or baptized non-Catholic (Protestant) adults are received into the Catholic Church. Candidatesattend the 10:30 a.m. Mass every Sunday and meet immediately after thehomily in the Pastoral Center to share Scripture and catechesis on the tenetsof the Catholic faith. In addition to the candidates, the program also involvescatechists, who serve as instructors, and sponsors, who assist and support thecandidates throughout the process. Training for catechists and sponsors isavailable in the parish and also through the Diocese of Metuchen. Baptism andConfirmation of candidates are administered during the Easter Vigil Liturgy onHoly Saturday.Deacon Luke Hally • (908) 766-0888, x. 5 • hally1@optonline.netBible StudyOpen to all adults who are interested in enriching their spiritual lives by acquiringa deeper understanding of God’s Word and applying it to their personal lives,Bible Study offers weekly sessions that include teaching, group discussion andpreparatory/follow-up assignments. Women’s Bible Study meets on Thursdaymornings from 9:00 a.m. until 11:30 a.m. Co-ed Bible Study meets on TuesdayPhoto courtesy Paul Balinski23

evenings from 7:15 p.m. until 9:15 p.m. Both groups meet in the Pastoral Centerfrom September through April.Patricia Lorenz • (908) 647-5025• pdlorenz@optonline.netCursilloCursillo is a unique ministry of Catholic Evangelization supported by BishopPaul Bootkowski of the Diocese of Metuchen and his office of Evangelization.One of the oldest movements in the Catholic Church, Cursillo seeks to bringCatholic men and women closer to Christ through a weekend Encounter withChrist, and to build Catholic Communities for Our Lord in our parishes, workenvironments and other areas. Cursillo is global in 60 countries, with 276Diocesan groups in the USA and local in all parishes in the Metuchen Diocese.The Cursillo methodology of Piety, Study and Action (Evangelization) hasspawned many other movements including, Marriage Encounter, Emmaus,RENEW, Kiros, and Life in The Spirit since its founding in Spain in 1946.Catholics who want to develop their spirituality are invited to attend anEncounter with Christ weekend at which the Cursillo Methods are taught. Thegoal of the Metuchen Cursillo Movement is to enrich faith in the parish andregionally across the Metuchen Diocese by networking with other Cursillistas inthe 104 participating parishes. The Metuchen Cursillo Movement was started atSaint James by six parishioners in 2005 and is now supported by the bishop asa model for all parishes.Andrew Chabak • (908) 221-9398 • machab@optonline.netMarriage EncounterMarriage Encounter is a weekend for spouses to spend alone together, awayfrom the distractions and tensions of everyday life, to rediscover each otherand to focus on their relationship. The emphasis of Marriage Encounter is oncommunication and is designed to give married couples a time to share theirfeelings, hopes, disappointments, joys, and frustrations...and to do so openlyand honestly, face-to-face, heart-to-heart. Three Catholic couples and a Catholicpriest present the program. Marriage Encounter Weekends are held regularly atlocal motels and retreat houses.Joan Jackson • (908) 580-1878 • joanpjackson@yahoo.comPre-CanaPre-Cana is a series of sessions for engaged couples who wish to be marriedin the Catholic Church. Topics include communication, sexuality and the sacramentof marriage. Team couples meet with the engaged couples four timesin a home setting. This ministry is open to couples who have been married forat least five years and who will attend a training workshop as preparation. Theteam meets annually.24

Andrea and Lou Chiafullo • (908) 542-1674 • achiafullo@optonline.netFaith Sharing for womenWomen of all ages are invited to join a Faith Sharing group to grow in holinessby praying together and encouraging, affirming and helping each other progresson their spiritual journeys. Groups of six to ten women meet for 90 minuteson a biweekly basis in members’ homes or in the Pastoral Center. The varietyof meeting times and days ensures that there is at least one small group whoseschedule can accommodate everyone. A two-hour orientation is available fornew members.Joan Rosenberg • (908) 903-0233 • jorose331@aol.comWomen’s MinistryThe mission of the Women’s Ministry is to reflect on the Catholic Christianwoman’s journey of faith, her relationship with Jesus Christ, her vocation andstate in life, and opportunities to live the Gospel message more effectively. Theprimary goal is to help each woman to find time for prayer and Scripture reading,thereby solidifying her sense of identity within the Catholic Church andclarifying her call to serve. Open to all adult women in the parish, the Women’sMinistry meets on the second Monday of each month to witness the faith; assumethe role of discipleship through leading, teaching and sharing; and to buildcommunity among the members. The Women’s Ministry conducts two annualretreats: the Spring retreat for moms is given by Saint James Mothers; the Autumnretreat, held the weekend before Thanksgiving, is given by a retreat coachor spiritual director from outside the parish and is open to all women.Regina DePrima • (908) 580-9894 • reginadeprima@verizon.netMen of Saint JamesThe Men of Saint James seek to help each other balance busy lives with Godas their center. They seek to become better husbands, fathers, leaders, workersand parishioners through prayer, sharing and support. The Men of Saint Jamesmeets for community prayer every Saturday morning from 7:15 a.m. until 8:00a.m. Mini retreats (three hours) are offered four times a year and feature guestspeakers. There is also an annual overnight retreat. All men of the parish areinvited to join.Terry Conley • (973) 464-5536 • terryconley@me.comSocial Concernsoffice of social concernsThe Office of Social Concerns is newly established at Saint James to provideoutreach, support, guidance and encouragement to families facing difficul-25

Photo courtesy Paul Balinskities meeting the basic needs of family life. Assistance is offered to secure food,shelter, healthcare and employment. Financial aid is also available. All calls arereceived on a private line and complete confidentiality is maintained.Debi Murray • (908) 334-6778 • debra.murray830@yahoo.comAdopt-a-ParishSaint James parishioners are encouraged to offer their support for the variousvolunteer projects undertaken each year to support our adopted sister parish,Sacred Heart Church in New Brunswick. Volunteers are needed to participate inthe monthly collection on the fourth Sunday, the Thanksgiving Food Drive, theChristmas Adopt-a-Family Gift Campaign, Operation Backpack, and the EasterBasket Project.Cathy and Harvey Homan • (908) 696-8976 • cathy_homan@yahoo.comShare Your BreadThe Share Your Bread group promotes awareness of the needs of the lessfortunate in the Diocese of Metuchen by providing a hands-on way to alleviate abasic need: hunger. Members manage a monthly food drive (third Sunday of the26

month) including publicizing the event, collecting the food and delivering it tothe Saint Vincent DePaul Food Pantry in New Brunswick. Deliveries are usuallymade on the Wednesday following the collection. Anyone who has access to a fullsize car, SUV or van, is able to load and unload groceries, and is free to make aweekday trip to New Brunswick once a month is encouraged to join.George Jonovich • (908) 647-2784 • jonog@verizon.netthe community soup Kitchen and outreach centerSeveral organizations at Saint James Church set up, supply food, serve and cleanup for more than 100 people at the Church of Saint Peter in Morristown on thefourth Saturday of each month. Most of the people who benefit are homeless,among the working poor, elderly or disabled. The Soup Kitchen Committee coordinatesthis effort. Members of all ministries and organizations at Saint James areencouraged to participate.Patricia Klarin • (908) 647-0321 • psklarin@yahoo.comHelping HandsFounded in 1971 to help and support parishioners during times of family bereavement,the Helping Hands Committee prepares and serves luncheons afterfunerals and also cooks meals for families dealing with illness. Participation inthis ministry is open to all adults in the parish who can volunteer to preparehomemade salads or desserts, help set up and break down tables, or laundertable linens. There are no regular meetings. This ministry is funded with donationsfrom the Rosary Altar Society.Rose Salaki • (908) 221-1013 • rose@salaki.comFriendly Visitors/ShoppersNo special training is required, just some time and an open heart for homeboundparishioners who need good company and help to restock their pantries andrefrigerators. Anyone with a driver’s license is encouraged to volunteer an houror so on a weekly or semi-weekly basis to perform corporal works of mercy andmake some wonderful new friends in the process.Susan Bryant • (908) 647-9630 • bryant149@verizon.netrespect for lifeThe objective of the Respect for Life Ministry is to foster respect for andprotection of all phases of life from conception to natural death. Members areinvolved in education, awareness campaigns, support of organizations thatreflect their mission, advocating for public policy that supports pro-life valuesand most importantly, through prayer. The group’s ultimate goal is to changehearts, minds and laws so that true respect for life will become a reality. The27

Disability Ministry, whose function is to improve and enrich the lives of thedisabled members of the parish and to raise awareness of their gifts and contributionsto the community, is included under the Respect for Life umbrella. TracyFrost (908-766-7972 or keylady1@verizon.net) is the Diocesan representativefor Saint James parish. The Respect for Life group collects baby supplies for thePregnancy Aid Center of Raritan, which supports pregnant women, babies andyoung children of low-income families.Kerry Shannon • (908) 658-9131 • kgsmp@aol.comTransportation GroupAll parishioners licensed to drive with access to a four-door vehicle arewelcome to join the Transportation Group, whose members provide rides forparishioners to and from doctors, hospitals and other medical facilities. Driversengage in conversation to make the trip a friendly, social experience in a sincere,caring Christian spirit for people who have no alternative means of transportationto necessary appointments.Frank Eustace • (908) 542-1192 • fjeustace@optimum.netService GroupsSaint James Home School AssociationOpen to all parents of children enrolled in Saint James School, the HSA is responsiblefor fundraising and for organizing school and family events. The HSAis dedicated to inspiring a Christ-centered community that instills Gospel valuesnurtured by belief, attitude and behavior and manifested in social concern.There are four meetings for the entire HSA membership, which is governed byan Executive Board of six members.Suzanne Asmar • (908) 334-8581 • sueee35@aol.comKnights of Columbus, Council #2393The Knights of Columbus is the world’s largest Catholic fraternal service organization.Founded in the United States in 1882, it is named in honor ofChristopher Columbus and dedicated to the principles of Charity, Unity, Fraternityand Patriotism. Membership in this international organization is opento all Catholic men age 18 and older. There is a business meeting on the firstTuesday of the month and a social on the third Tuesday of each month. Amongthe activities sponsored by the Knights are teen dances, Meet Santa, Easter EggHunt, a hayride and a Dinner Dance. Members also assist at Bethel Ridge andCharter Day, assemble the Crèche at Christmas and serve as Color Guard.Al LiCata • (908) 766-6163 • ren1co@aol.com29

Men of CharityInspired by Pope Benedict’s encyclical, Deus Caritas Est - God is Love, the SaintJames Men of Charity was formed in 2008. Men of Charity performs acts ofcharity and participates in and leads events that promote the Catholic faith insideand outside the parish community. Special emphasis is placed on support ofRight for Life activities. All adult men are invited to get involved in communityoutreach and parish activities supported by Men of Charity, which meets quarterlywith the full membership and monthly with the Executive Board. Annualdues are $20.Mark Balzarotti • (908) 340-4117 • mark@jettron.comBlankets of BlessingsCalling men, women and children (8 years old +) who love to knit or crochet(or who would like to learn)! Contribute your handwork (afghans, blankets or10" squares that can be crafted into afghans or blankets) for the benefit of thenewly baptized babies at Sacred Heart Church in New Brunswick (Saint James’sister parish), guests of the Interfaith Hospitality Network and residents of theMcCarrick Care Center. The group meets quarterly in the Pastoral Center butattendance is not mandatory. Members may work independently and just dropoff their contributions.Deb Knapp • (908) 647-0617 • debmy4suns@yahoo.comWellness & CompassionBereavement Support GroupThe mission of this group is to assist the bereaved in their journey from griefto hope. Six sessions are offered, once a week, in the fall. Training is availablethrough the diocese at minimal cost.Susan Picarro • (908) 306-1259 • spofpaohnj@aol.comParish NursesAll professional nurses in the parish are invited to use their skills to encouragethe health and wellbeing of the members of Saint James Church. Blood pressureclinics are held every other month. Home visits, glucose and cholesterol screenings,and a health fair are among the events sponsored by the Parish Nurses whomeet twice during the calendar year.Sue Abely • (908) 204-9677 • abely@optonline.net30

Youth Groupsaltar serversSee Liturgical Ministries.Donna and Scott Nafie • (908) 766-4124children’s liturgy of the wordSee Liturgical Ministries.Michele Fabbio • (908) 630-0963 • michele.fabbio@yahoo.comyouth choirSee Music Ministry under Liturgical MinistriesKaren Sutherland • (908) 766-9680 • jcsuth3@aol.comSchool of Religious Education / Vacation Bible schoolThe School of Religious Education offers sacramental preparation and religiousinstruction for the children of Saint James Parish, Kindergarten through eighthgrade, who attend public or nondenominational private school, to assist parentsin the fulfillment of their responsibility for faith formation. Classes meetweekly from September through April on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday atSaint James School. The School of Religious Education also offers Vacation BibleSchool during the summer. Volunteer teachers and aides are always welcomeand needed.Patty Del Re • (908)766-1227 • stjamesccd@yahoo.comCourtesy Frank Pietrucha, Knights of Columbus31

Boy Scouts of America, Cub Scout Pack 55(Patriots’ Path Council)For boys in grades 1-5, Cub Scouting positively influences characterdevelopment and encourages spiritual growth; helps boys develop habits andattitudes of good citizenship; encourages good sportsmanship and pride ingrowing strong in mind and body; improves understanding within the family;strengthens boys’ ability to get along with and respect others; fosters a senseof personal achievement by helping boys develop new interests and skills;shows how to be helpful and do one’s best; provides fun and exciting new thingsto do; prepares boys to become Boy Scouts. In addition to fun and learningactivities, Pack 55 participates in service activities for Saint James Parish andthe surrounding community. The Pack meets monthly. Individual Dens set theirown meeting schedules. Training for adult leaders is available through the Patriots’Path Council. For more information, visit www.pack55.com.George Kohl • (908) 766-0501 • ghkohljr@aol.comGirl Scouts USA (Heart of New Jersey Council)Girl Scouting offers girls (K-12) an opportunity to build courage, confidence andcharacter in a noncompetitive, supportive environment. Girl-driven, the GirlScout movement reflects the needs and interests of participating girls with awide variety of activities, trips and outdoor experiences. Girl Scouting encouragesskill-building and responsibility and promotes the development of strongPhoto courtesy Eileen and Michael Gavagan32

leadership, decision-making ability, and the desire to serve. Accordingly, GirlScouts participate in a variety of service projects throughout our community.Meeting days, times and locations are set by individual troops. Training for adultleaders and volunteers is available through the Heart of New Jersey Council. Formore information, visit www.girlscouts-rh.org.Robin Gehringer • (908) 221-9258 • hughrob@msn.comCatholic Youth Ministry (CYM) basketballThe Saint James Basketball Program is sponsored and regulated by the Dioceseof Metuchen Catholic Youth Ministry Office. Teams travel to other schools andparishes throughout the diocese to play games. The basketball program is opento any interested girl or boy in grades 4-12 who is a member of Saint JamesParish. Fee-based registration takes place near the end of September. Teams areformed and coaches are assigned in early October, before start of practices laterin the month. Practices are scheduled twice a week. The Diocese of MetuchenCYM basketball league games are played on Saturdays beginning on the firstweekend in December through the middle of March. The program is designed todemonstrate Catholic values, teamwork, physical fitness, skill building and goodsportsmanship in a competitive setting.Gene Moretti • (908) 221-1766 • emoretti@att.comMoms and TotsFounded in 1985, Moms and Tots hosts weekly playgroups for mothers andtheir children, newborn through pre-school, to encourage constructive play andsocialization. The group meets on Tuesday, Wednesday and Thursday from 10:00a.m. to 11:30 a.m. in the chapel auditorium. Moms and Tots also promotesservice through projects like the annual toy drive, food drives, ChristmasCaroling for seniors, and visits to the Somerset Hills Adult Day Care Center.Field trips and other off-campus activities include a hayride, a Halloween paradeand party, a trip to the Bernards Township Library, an airport tour, pony ridesand a family picnic.Lori Kendis • (908) 766-3591 • sharkmars@aol.comLittle LightsFounded in 2005 to foster respect, understanding and outreach between thechildren of Saint James Church (ages 7–13) and those of Sacred Heart Church inNew Brunswick, our sister parish, Little Lights offers a series of events designedto celebrate diversity, commonality, love, friendship and compassion. Highlightsinclude the annual Christmas Party at Sacred Heart and a spring event,including crafts and games.Darlene Dobry • (908) 647-1600 • ddobry@verizon.net33

Youth MinistryThe Youth Ministry program offers something for everyone, from intimate BibleStudies to exuberant, exhilarating retreats. There is a special Mass just for teensonce a month featuring contemporary music and youth-oriented homilies. Pizzaand fellowship follow the Mass. The Youth Ministry runs six or seven serviceprojects during the school year and offers a mission trip during the summer.Meeting days/times vary depending on the activity or event. A program for juniorhigh school students is in development.Cristina Imparato • (908) 766-1183 • marymagpray4me@aol.comHigh School SharingBoys and girls of high school age are invited to meet biweekly from Octoberthrough April with a group of their peers in the home of an adult couple thatfacilitates discussion on a variety of topics, including relationships with family,friends, community and the Church, in the context of a faith journey. Activitiesinclude Alpha and Omega Day Masses, pizza socials and a volleyball tournament.Volunteer adult facilitators have access to training resources at no cost.Cristina Imparato • (908) 766-1183 • marymagpray4me@aol.comantiochThe Antioch retreat program is for high school sophomores, juniors and seniorsand is held at Saint James twice a year in the fall and spring. Designed to inspireparticipants to encounter Christ through talks, discussion groups and the Sacramentsof Reconciliation and the Eucharist, Antioch is a community of believersthat supports and loves its members for who and what they are. Adult volunteersare always needed. Virtus training and finger printing are required for thesafety of our teens.Cristina Imparato • (908) 766-1183 • marymagpray4me@aol.comSocial GroupsFellowship Coffee HourA wonderful opportunity for new parishioners to get better acquainted with theSaint James community and for people already established in the parish to renewexisting relationships and to build new ones, a Fellowship Coffee Hour isheld monthly on the third Sunday in the chapel auditorium after the 9:00 a.m.and 10:30 a.m. Masses. Coffee, tea, juice, donuts and bagels are served, and acraft is offered for the children. All are invited to help set up, shop, serve and/or clean up.Helen Johnson • (908) 766-4691 • perryhelenjohnson@verizon.net34

Saints Joachim and Anne SocietyOpen to all adults (age 52+), the Saints Joachim and Anne Society is an activesenior social group that meets in the chapel auditorium at Noon on the firstMonday after the first Sunday of every month except July and August. Themeetings feature guest speakers, demonstrations, activities and refreshments.Luncheons, day trips and an annual multi-day excursion are also planned.Janet Paglia • (973) 425-0778Top of the Hill GangFounded in 2004, the Top of the Hill Gang offers an opportunity for men aged70+ to discuss current issues, explore the challenges of the senior stage of lifeand to enhance spirituality. Guest speakers discuss subjects related to the interestsof the membership. This group actively supports parishioners in themilitary, especially those in harm’s way. Top of the Hill Gang meets on the thirdTuesday of the month in Room 6 of the Pastoral Center.John Durso • (908) 647-2118Annual EventsPhoto courtesy Paul BalinskiLenten Soup SupperRealize the Lenten message! Parishioners share a simple meal of soup and bread,identifying with the less fortunate. Contributions are requested and donated to35

a local soup kitchen. Volunteers are needed to prepare homemade soups, donatebread and serve meals. Parishioners are invited to partake of the meal and makedonations to support the Missionaries of Charity in Newark. Share your bread!Sandy & Jim Furst • (908) 221-1144 • jsfurst@aol.comInterfaith Hospitality NetworkEvery July, Saint James Church hosts homeless families with shelter, mealsand support services. Families are housed in the Pastoral Center and volunteersprovide breakfast and dinner, fellowship and support. The coordinators meetsemi-annually. All parishioners are encouraged to volunteer and help our guestsachieve independence, confidence and peace.Jill Potdevin • (908) 626-1699 • jpotdevin@chubb.comParish PicnicThe perfect group for those who cannot commit to regularly scheduled meetingsand activities! This committee organizes and publicizes the annual Parish Picnicheld every September on the parish grounds to foster fellowship and fun amongparishioners of all ages. Volunteers are needed to help with ticket sales, permits,cooking, serving, activities and games.Mary Chabak • (908) 432-2447 • machab@optonline.netblessing of the animalsBring your pets on leashes or in carriers for a special blessing to celebrate the Feastof Saint Francis. Usually held on the Saturday closest to October 4, more specificdetails are published in the Sunday Bulletin during September. Pax et bonum.Parish Golf OutingThe annual golf outing is a fun, social event for parishioners that also promotesChristian community. Men and women of all ages are welcome. There are prizes,raffles and wonderful silent auction items. Although it is technically not a fundraiser,any profit realized from the golf outing supports the activities of the YouthMinistry.Deacon Luke Hally • (908) 766-0888, x 5 • hally1@optonline.net36

Photo courtesy Paul Balinski

Stewardship PrayerI offer this day to youdear God.Thank you for the blessingsyou have given me,May I use these giftsto build your kingdom.May my actions be areflection of your love.May what I do todaybring others closer to you.May my words be kind and gentleand may they bring joy to others.Today, help me give back a portionof what you have given me.I ask this through Jesus’ name.AmenStewardship CommitteeEileen and Mike GavaganHazel and John AielloMark BalinskiKathy LandadioJack McArtneyJoanne McClainRoseanne and Tim O’RourkeSusan RamazzottoBernadette and Steven Salata38

Photo courtesy Paul BalinskiAll are welcome in this place

Watercolor illustration by Frank Pietrucha, Knights of ColumbusTHE CHURCH OF SAINT JAMES184 South Finley AvenueBasking Ridge, New Jersey 07920(908) 766-0888stjamesbr@optonline.netwww.saintjamesbr.org40