Bishop delights three Sparta schools with visits

/

The three schools of the Catholic Academy of Sussex County in Sparta on Jan. 29 welcomed Bishop Kevin J. Sweeney to their respective campuses for Catholic Schools Week, observed in the United States last week. The bishop visited Rev. George A. Brown Memorial School, Pope John XXIII Middle School, and Pope John XXIII Regional High School.

First, Bishop Sweeney celebrated a Mass with Rev. Brown students in Our Lady of the Lake (OLL) Church in Sparta. Concelebrating the Mass with the bishop were Father Michael Parisi, interim Catholic Academy of Sussex County president, vicar general of the Paterson Diocese, and pastor of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Mountain Lakes; Father John Calabro, the high school’s chaplain and teacher; and Father Richard Carton, OLL’s pastor.

“Today, we had the pleasure to celebrate our liturgy with Bishop Kevin Sweeney, the head of our diocese, the Diocese of Paterson. During the homily, Bishop Sweeney encouraged us to think and act upon our vocation to know, to love, and to serve God,” Rev. Brown posted on social media on Jan. 29. “At the end of Mass, we thanked Bishop Sweeney, Father Calabro, Father Richard, and Father Parisi for their guidance and teachings of faith at Rev. Brown. In appreciation, our students sang ‘Lady of Knock’ and gave each of our clergy thank you cards.”

After the Mass, Bishop Sweeney headed to Pope John XXIII Middle School.

“After leading us in prayer, Bishop Sweeney talked with our students and enjoyed a delicious school lunch,” the middle school posted on social media. “During this time, they were able to ask the bishop about his vocation and any other questions they.”

Finally, Bishop Sweeney went to Pope John XXIII Regional High School, which hosted a question-and-answer session with him in the Old Gym.

“During the Q&A, our students were able to ask the Bishop any questions and learn more about his vocation,” the high school posted on social media. “Thank you, Bishop Sweeney, for coming to visit our school during Catholic Schools Week.”

BEACON PHOTOS | JOE GIGLI

Bishop Sweeney celebrates Mass with Rev. Brown students in Our Lady of the Lake Church in Sparta.

Bishop visits Pope John Middle School and High School.

Previous Story

Step away from the everyday — go on a pilgrimage this Jubilee year

Next Story

Academy helps Los Angeles students after wildfires

Latest from News