Catholic Good News Ministries Interview with John McGuire

On this episode of Footsteps to Heaven Terry Modica talks with John McGuire Director of Life Long Faith Formation at Immaculate Heart of Mary Parish in Scotch Plains, NJ. They discuss what it means to be a smuggler of the Good News and ways to engage young men in parish life.

This video is produced by Good News Ministries, the Catholic center for daily growth in Christ. Good News Ministries is dedicated to helping you know the victorious love of Jesus Christ, the personal, doting love of God the Father, and the empowering love of the Holy Spirit.

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WE ARE HIS WITNESSES

A Letter from Cardinal Tobin

Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ,

The peace of Christ our Redeemer be with you. I write to you today as a witness to your deep faith, your love for the Church, and the vibrant diversity that makes our Archdiocese a sign of hope.

Yet, the realities we face as a Catholic Church in the Archdiocese of Newark are both urgent and undeniable: parish membership, Mass attendance, and sacramental participation have declined. The number of priests to serve as pastors is decreasing. And still, the population of our region continues to grow, offering new and fertile ground for evangelization. I believe the Holy Spirit is inviting us to something new.

Today, I am announcing an archdiocesan initiative called We Are His Witnesses. This is not simply another program. It is a journey of renewal—one that asks each of us to discern, with courage, humility and faith where God is leading us. Together, we will reflect on three essential questions:

1. Where are we now?

2. Where is God calling us?

3. How will we get there together?

This effort will focus on how we evangelize, care for one another in our parishes, and ensure our parishes are strong and sustainable for the future. This process calls for an honest evaluation of current practices and structures. Some ministries will be renewed; some parish alignments may change. Over time, mergers or closures will be necessary. These conversations and decisions will not always be easy, but as members of one body—the Church – we will support one another throughout this journey.

To guide this effort, I have asked Bishop Michael Saporito and an Archdiocesan Planning Commission to collaborate with pastors and parish leaders across our four counties. But the success of this initiative depends on each one of us. I want to hear from you.

We have already begun by listening through a survey called the Disciples Maker Index — and we will continue listening in the months ahead. I invite you to be part of this journey. Learn more at WeAreHisWitnesses.org, where you’ll find a brief video message from me and updates on our progress.

My friends, we are not alone. We are His witnesses—called to proclaim the joy of the Gospel in a world that needs it more than ever. I ask you to join me in this sacred work. Let us walk forward in faith, guided by the Spirit, and united in hope.

May God bless you and your loved ones. Sincerely yours in Christ the Redeemer,

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.

Archbishop of Newark

Deacon Colm's First Mass & Reception 2025

Highlights from Deacon Colm's 1st Mass and After-Party at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church. Years of hard work has led to this moment. Congratulations Deacon Colm! We look forward to seeing you at the pulpit for many years to come. And a BIG THANKS to Geraldine for the photography and tasty treats at the reception!

Senior Afternoon Tea Party 2025

Thank you so much for all your help with the afternoon tea event, it went off perfectly!

Our guests had the best time, they really enjoyed the food and were happy to take a considerable amount home. The music though, really made this event super special. It was lovely to see everyone up dancing and having a great time. Our volunteers are truly amazing, they worked incredibly hard to help us pull this off, Regina, Katie, Michelle, Brenda, Margaret and Regina. A big thank you to Diane and Mary Frances for all their help and support. Special thanks to John and Kathy Adisano for the great music and all the extra little touches that made this event so wonderful.

Sincerely,

Geraldine and Jean

Here is a lovely letter written by some of our guests…

“Hello,
On behalf of the Fanwood Seniors Club members who attended the May 17th Afternoon Tea Party, thank you for your invitation and your hospitality at this event. Our members look forward to this tea party each year, and the refreshments and entertainment on Saturday did not disappoint - they were delightful and made for a lovely afternoon for all those in attendance. Thank you again for all that you do for seniors and others in the community, and best wishes for your future endeavors.

Kind regards,
Ethel Paoletti, Secretary
Fanwood Senior Citizens Club

Fanwood Community Foundation Visits the IHM Food Pantry

Thank you to Fanwood Community Foundation for stopping by the Food Pantry this week!!! They assembled the team to help distribute food and dropped off a HUGE donation. Look at the size of that check! It's bigger than MaryKate! The Food Pantry will be closed Wednesday 12/25 and Wednesday 1/1 for the Holidays. But we will be open every Wednesday from 10AM-11:30AM. And every 2nd Sunday of the month. Next Sunday Food Pantry is 1/12. Merry Christmas from The IHM Food Pantry and Fanwood Community Foundation.

Kathleen Basi & Katie Wills LIVE In-Concert

Katie Wills and Kathleen Basi in Concert – A Celebration of Original Music and Cherished Favorites Scotch Plains, NJ – Join us for a delightful concert featuring acclaimed composers Katie Wills and Kathleen Basi on Sunday, November 10th, at 2:30 PM at Immaculate Heart of Mary Church in Scotch Plains, NJ. Katie Wills, published with Oregon Catholic Press (OCP), and Kathleen Basi, whose works are published with OCP, GIA, and Simply Liturgical, will share their inspiring original compositions alongside some beloved favorites. This concert promises to be a beautiful afternoon of music that uplifts the spirit and fosters community.

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