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Roman Catholic Diocese of Metuchen




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February, 2004
Contact: Deirdre Trabert Malacrea
908-769-5400 x 126
  

     Bishop Bootkoski invites Parishes to join RENEW Process
     Dates Set for Informational Sessions Throughout the Diocese

Metuchen, NJ –Bishop Bootkoski announced that the Diocese of Metuchen will be working with RENEW International to offer its well-known process for parish spiritual renewal. All parishes in the diocese are encouraged to participate and are invited to learn more about this opportunity by attending one of the Orientation/Information sessions being held at various locations in and around Metuchen. Invitations have been sent to all parishes.

Sessions have been scheduled for February 11, February 12 at the St. John Neumann Pastoral Center , Piscataway ; February 19 at St. Joseph 's in Washington ; and February 24 at St. Bernard's in Bridgewater . All sessions will be held from 7:30 p.m. to 9:30 p.m.

Bishop Bootkoski supports strong participation by all members of the diocese, stating, “We are all called to constant conversion and need programs such as RENEW to help us respond to the call of the Lord. I have worked with this program as a pastor, and I am sure that this will be a wonderful experience for all of us.”

RENEW: Spiritual Renewal for the 21 st Century is a highly effective way to bring a refreshed spirituality to the life of the parish. The RENEW process offers something for everyone in the parish; at its heart is a process of Scripture reflection, prayer and empowered action that takes place within small Christian communities. The training and small group materials are available in both English and Spanish. Materials are also available in eight other languages.

Planning has begun in the diocese, with Fr. John Alvarado and Deacon Joel Livingston being named by the bishop as Diocesan Co-Coordinators for RENEW. The process will formally initiate in the parishes in October 2004. “For many parishes, this process will be an excellent follow-up to their positive small group experience with ‘Healing the Body of Christ,'” according to Fr. Alvarado.

Since 1978, the work of RENEW International has touched the lives of over 25 million individuals in thousands of parishes across six continents. RENEW's process brings priests and parishioners together in a community climate that fosters prayer, spiritual renewal and great involvement. The results of RENEW are impressive.

  • An independent study shows that 87% of participants develop a better understanding of the Catholic faith.

  • Ordinary people move into active community service, accomplishing millions of hours of work in their churches and communities.

  • Reconciliation occurs within families and among people of different backgrounds.

  • Tailored programs uplift groups with special needs: youth and college students, the imprisoned, the disabled.

Parishes that wish to contact RENEW International regarding RENEW: Spiritual Renewal for the 21 st Century, may call Greg Kremer at 585-482-2606. Those looking for more information on RENEW International may visit www.renewintl.org.

Please direct media inquiries to Deirdre Trabert Malacrea, at 908-769-5400 x126 or email Deirdre@renewintl.org.

 

# # # The Diocese of Metuchen serves over 500,000 Catholics in Middlesex, Somerset , Hunterdon and Warren counties. The Diocese includes 108 parishes. It serves its faithful through 25 ministries that provide educational, pastoral and charitable outreach.

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