A Letter from Bishop James F. Checchio for World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life 2023

My dear Sisters and Brothers in Consecrated Life, 

Today is a special day to say thank you to God for you and your witness.  We are so blessed here in the Metuchen Diocese by you, your commitment to your vows and your ministry on behalf of the Church.  You give testimony to the world that Christ is enough in life and deserving of our love.  You remind us that while we live in this world, we are journeying toward another and are called to try to make this world a little more like heaven by your acts of charity and mercy.  Your leading others into deeper friendship with Christ has a significant impact on our diocesan family.  Thank you!

We give thanks for who you are but also for what you do.  Your ministry of teaching, especially in our Catholic schools and parishes, in the corporal works of mercy, visiting the sick, the homebound, those in prison brings Christ to those in need of Him.  Your assistance in shepherding our people through assisting with administrative matters, whether in the diocesan center, our parishes, schools, or other institutions is a great assistance too.  Your work with our youth and young adults helps to focus them during a challenging time.  In short, we are so grateful for all that you do in the name of Christ to care for His Body, the Church.

Finally, thank you for your prayers.  While all of you are so good in praying for us, I am particularly grateful for the prayers of our contemplatives, the elderly, those whose health has been compromised and our consecrated virgins. We depend upon them and need them!  Thank you for saying yes to our Lord when He called you to follow Him and serve Him.  We are indeed blessed by your presence, your prayers, and your ministry.

Be assured of my prayers and gratitude, and I know I am joined by so many of our faithful in this too.  God keep and bless you.

With renewed best wishes, I remain

Yours in Christ,

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