A new academic, spiritual journey for young disciples begins!

The beginning of a new school year is filled with anticipation and excitement for students, teachers, administrators and families. We in the Diocese of Metuchen look forward to opening our doors on the first day of school and continuing our ministerial mission for our students.

In our Catholic Schools, this time of year serves as the foundation for the unique opportunity to infuse the academic journey with spiritual growth, fostering a holistic development encompassing both the mind and the soul. This helps reinforce the values of faith, compassion and community.

One of the distinguishing features of our schools is the incorporation of prayer and reflection into daily classroom routines. When we take time to connect with God and contemplate the day ahead, our students and teachers are reminded of the spiritual dimension of their educational pursuits.

At the heart of our schools are the core values rooted in the teachings of Jesus Christ, and these values are woven into the daily life of our students. Compassion, kindness, respect and forgiveness are virtues that can be demonstrated and applied when children collaborate on projects, engage in discussions, support one another, and work together in athletic and extracurricular endeavors.

Our schools emphasize the importance of service to others, thus strengthening the entire school community. Through volunteering, supporting charitable causes, or participating in outreach programs our students learn that their actions can have a positive impact on the world around them.

All of our schools will be participating in the newly created “Saint of the Month” program. This initiative will support our mission of forming disciples of Jesus Christ. Each month of this school year, the life of a saint will be introduced as a positive role model and the virtues that they emulate will be an inspiration to our youth as we continue to form, inform, and transform them to be the saints of today and tomorrow.

The National Eucharistic Revival will continue to be a focus, assisting all of us in renewing our worship of Jesus Christ in the Eucharist. The Eucharist is often referred to as the “source and summit” of the Catholic faith, and by focusing on the Eucharist our school community can find a common ground that unites them despite their diverse backgrounds and experiences. The results will be schools that will have a stronger sense of pride and unity and inspire positive action within the school and community.

Our schools deeply appreciate the support and generosity of our annual “Days of Giving” – an integral part of each school’s fundraising that will support programs and initiatives for our students and teachers. This generosity helps our mission flourish and thrive through more accessible and enriching opportunities for all. More information about the Days of Giving will be forthcoming in October.

We thank and appreciate our families for choosing a Catholic education in the Diocese of Metuchen. We do not take this choice lightly, and all our educators will bring their best each and every day to make this year the absolute best for each child.

Bishop Checchio stated many years ago that the decision to enroll a child in a Catholic school speaks volumes about the love that parents have for their child. The child will be nurtured in a community of faith that will support the firm foundation that is provided at home. The Bishop’s words ring true now more than ever.

From Phillipsburg to Perth Amboy, Basking Ridge to Old Bridge, and all our schools in between, we are delighted to open the doors of our buildings with pride and joy as we begin the 2023-2024 school year. Schools in the Diocese of Metuchen will continue to shine as beacons of excellence as we enrich the mind, spirit and character of our students.

Barbara Stevens
Superintendent of Schools

Joseph Diskin
Assistant Superintendent of Schools

Sister Mary Louise Shulas
Director of Curriculum and Instruction