Parishes in the Diocese of Metuchen are working to ensure people in their local communities have a joyous Christmas.
Evidence of their efforts can be seen in churches, parish gathering areas and offices, and Catholic school cafeterias and gymnasiums, where packages and canned goods lie in wait until they can be sorted and distributed, often close to home to those in need, according to a statement prepared by the Diocese of Metuchen.
For months leading up to Christmas, staff and volunteers begin planning the parish-based Advent and Christmas giving programs.
Susan Erickson, vice president of the ministry of the Society of St. Vincent de Paul associated with St. Ambrose Parish in Old Bridge, said the ministry begins planning for their Christmas giving program in November.
“At Thanksgiving, when we distribute turkeys and trimmings to over 40 clients, we ask each family to complete a survey for us — a Christmas survey,” Erickson said. “We ask about their circumstance and their specific needs. … After that determination, we get to work.”
Such giving programs, which assist all people in need, regardless of race, religion or ethnicity, exist in every parish around the four-county diocese, comprised of Middlesex, Somerset, Hunterdon and Warren, according to the statement.
The Rosary Altar Society of Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary in Hackettstown sponsored a “baby shower” this month to collect baby items that benefit the Life Choices Resource Center in Metuchen, an organization which serves mothers and families who are faced with difficult or unplanned pregnancies.
“Everyone benefits from the parish community’s generosity, including the giver,” said Arlene Pidgeon, parish secretary for Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary. “Our church community is a very generous one — they want to give and look forward to the chance to do that, especially at this time of year.”
