More Good News

Father James Sichko works hard to maintain a deep trust in the Lord, which makes him ready to touch anyone he meets with the light and love of Christ in his travels around the world — even a famous actress and singer. A while back, Father Sichko, an internationally known preacher, evangelist and motivational speaker, spent time on a flight to Melbourne, Australia, praying the rosary in his seat. A woman next to him told him that she had cancer and asked him to pray for her. Father Sichko gave her a papal crucifix. That woman in need of prayer was Olivia Newton-John, the priest revealed during “60 Minutes for Jesus,” a three-day retreat he gave at St. Vincent Martyr Parish recently.

Through twinkling lights under the stars, Resurrection Parish in Randolph will host Drive-Thru Advent in Lights on the First Sunday of Advent Nov. 29, from 6:30 to 7:30 p.m. in the parish’s parking lot. This special light show will be held for families to enjoy the start of the Advent season during a time of social distancing during the pandemic. It will feature teen-agers from the parish presenting a life-size Advent calendar, a living Nativity and an Advent wreath. Giveaways will be offered for children who visit.

Bishop Kevin Sweeney made a pastoral visit to Assumption Parish in Morristown Nov. 21 where he celebrated the vigil Mass marking the Solemnity of Our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, also known as the feast of Christ the King. During his visit, he administered the Sacrament of Confirma­tion to young adults at the parish.

St. Cecilia Parish in Rockaway welcomed Bishop Kevin Sweeney who celebrated Mass marking the Feast of Christ the King on Nov. 22 — also known as the feast of the parish’s namesake, St. Cecilia, patron saint of musicians.

As The Beacon kicks off its 37th annual Christmas Sharing Fund, it comes during an unprecedented time in human history. The Beacon is honored once again this Christmas season to assist Catholic Charities to bring needed joy during the Advent and Christmas seasons to the least among us. Catholic Family and Community Services, the Department for Persons with Disabilities and Straight and Narrow have been working harder more than ever to assist so many affected by the pandemic who come to Catholic Charities in their time of need.