Category: Latest News

We are sad to announce the passing of Fr. Henry

Posted on by Nathalie Godet

We are sad to announce the passing of Reverend Henry L. Hemmerling, a retired priest of our diocese. Fr. Henry served our parish as weekend associate for a few years. He died on Sunday, June 23, 2024 at the age of 88. Here’s more information from the Diocese:

“Father Hemmerling spent four years with the Trappists at St. Joseph’s Abbey in Spencer, Massachusetts before discerning diocesan priesthood, and was ordained on May 28, 1966.

He served at St. Francis of Assisi Parish (now Cathedral), Metuchen, St. Barnabas Parish, Bayville, St. Anthony of Padua, Hightstown, and St. Joan of Arc Parish, Marlton.  He served as Pastor at Sacred Heart Parish, South Plainfield, St. Mary Magdalen de Pazzi Parish, Flemington, and Most Holy Redeemer Parish, Old Bridge.  He retired from active ministry in 2001.

Father Hemmerling’s body will be received by Rev. Chester H. Carina on Thursday, June 27, 2024, at 2:00 p.m. at Most Holy Redeemer Parish, 133 Amboy Road, Old Bridge Township.   Public visitation will take place in the church from 2 to 4 p.m., and from 6 to 6:45 p.m. Very Reverend Jonathan S. Toborowsky, VG will preside at the Mass of Commemoration at 7:00 p.m., with Rev. Msgr. Francis J. Duffy of the Diocese of Paterson the homilist.  On Friday, June 28, a viewing will take place from 9:30-10:45 a.m. in the church.  Then, at 11:00 a.m., Most Reverend James F. Checchio will celebrate the Mass of Christian Burial, with Rev. Chester H. Carina the homilist.  Interment will follow at Holy Sepulchre Cemetery in Totowa, NJ.”

We, here at St. Matthias, experienced his pastoral care, sense of humor and storytelling. We are grateful to God for his life and service.

Father Henry, may God our heavenly Father welcome you into His eternal kingdom, good and faithful servant of the Lord.

Rest in peace. AMEN

 

SCAM ALERT

Posted on by Nathalie Godet

 

Like many pastors, I too have heard from our parishioners who received emails or text messages, seemingly from me, asking for donations.  Please exercise the utmost caution when receiving these types of communications. I have not asked nor will I solicit donations. Please be suspicious of any such communication. Please call the parish office directly to verify its legitimacy.  Anyone who feels that they have been the victim of this type of fraud is urged to contact the local police department.

-Fr. Abraham

Part-Time Administrative Assistant Needed

Posted on by Nathalie Godet

St. Matthias Church is looking for a part-time administrative assistant with management experience. Responsibilities will include but not limited to:

  • Assist with the day-to-day operation of the parish.
  • Maintain the parish calendar and schedule events.
  • Serve as the point of contact for funerals and weddings.
  • Proactive management of vendors.
  • Work with maintenance supervisor ordering parts, supplies, and scheduling appointments.
  • Maintain office inventory and complete other general office duties.
  • Must be proficient in MS Office.Excellent office and interpersonal skills.
  • Good communication skills, both in person and on the phone a must.

Please send your resume to: Mary Pat Burke-Grospin, Business Administrator at  mpburke-grospin@stmatthias.net

Trail of Faith

Posted on by Nathalie Godet

The “Trail of Faith” provides a new opportunity to appreciate nature on the grounds of Saint Matthias Parish. The Trail is approximately 1/3 of a mile long. It starts in the back parking lot between the northeast corner of the playground and the dumpster enclosure. It travels through wooded areas and fields behind the parish. The trail was planned and built by Parishioner Dalton Vassanella for his Eagle Scout Project.

Dalton is a member of Scout Troop 154, which is sponsored by St. Matthias Parish. Several Scouts and Adult Leaders from Troop 154 helped him with the construction of the Trail. The inspiration for the trail came to Dalton one Sunday after Mass as he was walking the Parish grounds reflecting on his experiences as a student at St. Matthias School. His goal was to come up with a project that would allow others to enjoy the natural beauty of God’s creations as part of their ongoing spiritual journeys. The Trail is dedicated to the many teachers and staff that have devoted decades of their lives to educating thousands of St. Matthias students.

The trail was built to provide parishioners a place to reflect on their relationship with God, deepen their spirituality, and pray or meditate, all while surrounded by nature. It was also built to be utilized by Saint Matthias School. Teachers can take their students on the trail to learn more about natural sciences and students can see firsthand different types of soil, trees, plants, birds, animals, and other elements of the ecosystem, in this “outdoor classroom”.

Scattered along the trail are a dozen signs. Each sign states one of 12 points that comprise the Scout Law, along with a corresponding Bible quote. When they walk the trail, parishioners, staff, and students are encouraged to ponder the Bible passages, or simply use each sign as a place to stop and reflect upon the beauty of God’s creations.

When walking the trail please stay on the path marked by the green trail markers, at all times. Also, please wear appropriate footwear and be aware of your surroundings. All children should be accompanied by a parent or guardian, when walking on the “Trail of Faith”.

Anyone interested in learning more about Scout Troop 154 please contact: Scoutmaster, Mr. Paul Furnell; (732) 799 9956. info@troop154nj.com