A Message from Fr. AJ 3/7/2026

“Whoever has two tunics should share with the person who has none.” 

Dear friends,

If we take the above words of St. John the Baptist preaching in the desert seriously, we will certainly be challenged! But we are also inspired to go outside of ourselves. When we are tempted to hoard material goods, God invites us to share what we have. When we are tempted to think only of ourselves, God reminds us that we have a responsibility to our neighbor. Sharing clothing not only provides someone with warmth, but also dignity and confidence.

Keeping this in mind, I hope you will participate in this week’s parish-wide service project based on the Corporal Work of Mercy that asks us to “clothe the naked.” After any Mass this weekend, take a purple garbage bag for your household and fill it with clothes you no longer make use of but are still in good condition. Return your offerings to the white donation bins at the back of our parking lot.

All donations made to these bins benefit Catholic Charities of the Archdiocese of Newark. This organization exists to serve the needs of the poor and promote their rights and dignity. Its work is made possible by the support of the parish communities within our Archdiocese, especially through financial contributions made to the Annual Appeal.

As we celebrate the 3rd Sunday of Lent this weekend, I also want to take some time to highlight this year’s Annual Appeal. Each year, St. Peter’s connects to the greater universal Church by participating in the Annual Appeal, which funds the good works of the Archdiocese of Newark. This year, St. Peter’s base goal is $97,025 and stretch goal is $126,132. To make your gift, visit rcan.org/sharing or take an envelope from the Gathering Space. If you’d like, you can restrict your gift to “Caring for the Poor and Vulnerable” to support Catholic Charities and other offices of the Archdiocese that directly work with those in need.

When we reach out to others, our parish community reflects the love of Christ and extends His mercy to the world. Whether you’re sharing clothes, financial contributions, prayers, or a combination of all three, thank you for your generosity, compassion, and faithfulness. May the Lord continue to bless our parish with a grace-filled Lent!

In Christ,

Fr. AJ

Watch the most recent homily clip from Fr. AJ here.

Rev. Andrew J. DeSilva