A Letter from
Bishop James F. Checchio

April 11, 2020

My Dear Catechumens and Candidates,

Tonight is that blessed and Holy night where our Church proclaims the glorious message of Christ's rising from the dead; the eternal "the daystar rising" who brightens our night!

He is the source of eternal salvation and the new life. He gives that life to all from the sacramental life poured forth from his wounded side and breathed fresh in the power of the Holy Spirit. This too is the night where we would have welcomed you with open arms and great joy into the great communion of His Body the Church. We are saddened that this moment is postponed, but only temporarily. That day will come as soon as relatively possible in our circumstances.  Have no fear. The Christ who has called you to this journey of new life in Him has not abandoned you. No, He is with you, and prompts me to echo His love and concern for you. I take great joy in the new life you bring to our Church. That new life in you will be born from the waters of the font of baptism, the anointing and sealing of the Holy Spirit in the holy oil, and the banquet of His most precious Body and Blood of the altar.  

Know of my special love and prayers for you. Know too of the joy and gladness you bring to the whole Church by your yes to His call to communion with us in faith.

We look forward to the day when we will sacramentally share in the joy of Christ's love made present in His Holy Church.

With renewed best wishes, I remain

Yours in Christ, 


Most Reverend James F. Checchio, JCD, MBA
Bishop of Metuchen