New Jersey Catholic Conference

06/02/2026

The staff at NJCC wishes a Happy Ordination Anniversary to Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R.

Happy Ordination Anniversary to Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., who was ordained to the priesthood on this day in 1978.

We thank God for Cardinal Tobin's 48 years of priestly ministry. From Detroit to Chicago, Rome to Indianapolis and now Newark, we are blessed by his leadership in our local diocese and the global Church.

Ad multos annos!

06/01/2026

Tomorrow is Primary Election Day.

It is our opportunity to choose who will run in the
November general election. All Catholics are
encouraged to engage in the public policy debate and
have their voices heard.

To find your local polling location visit
https://www.voter.svrs.nj.gov/polling-place-search

04/14/2026

Top photo caption: Pope Leo XIV, the former Cardinal Robert F. Prevost, waves to the crowds in St. Peter’s Square at the Vatican after his election as pope May 8, 2025. The new pope was born in Chicago. CNS photo/Vatican Media A message from Bishop David M. O’Connell, C.M. In recent days, many o...

04/13/2026

Statement from Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., Archbishop of Newark.

01/30/2026

In this episode of 5 Minutes With a Bishop, Most Rev. David M. O’Connell, C.M., Bishop of Trenton, shares a brief reflection on the saints, service, vocation...

01/19/2026

Cardinals urge a moral U.S. foreign policy grounded in human dignity, peace, and Pope Leo XIV’s guidance for global leadership.

01/19/2026

INTENTION
May every father of a preborn child lovingly support the mother of his child in welcoming new life.

PRAYERS
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

REFLECTION
Fatherhood has its origins in God, who chose to reveal Himself to us as Our Father, sending his only Son for the sake of our salvation. Fathers therefore have a special role “in revealing and in reliving on earth the very fatherhood of God” (Familiaris consortio 25). Fathers are called to exhibit “generous responsibility for the life conceived under the heart of the mother” (FC 25). They are uniquely entrusted with the protection and defense of both mother and child and, in this way, in safeguarding the sanctity of human life.

As evidenced in our world today, the role of the father “is of unique and irreplaceable importance” (FC 25). Often women choose abortion because they do not have the support of the child’s father, or—even worse—the father of the child pressures her to make the decision to abort. At the same time, it is important to acknowledge with compassion that men can also be overwhelmed by an unexpected pregnancy and that society increasingly tells them that they should have no say in their children’s lives. In the face of these false messages, we pray that fathers of preborn children will find courage in the example of Saint Joseph—who embraced the role of father amid difficult circumstances—and offer loving, life-affirming support to the mothers of their children.

ACTS OF REPARATION
(Choose one.)

Give up sleeping on your pillow—or even your bed—tonight. Offer this small sacrifice for the intention that fathers of preborn children will courageously answer their call to support both mother and child.

Pray a decade of the Rosary for all fathers of preborn children, that through her intercession, Our Lady may inspire in them the virtues of Saint Joseph.

Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.

ONE STEP FURTHER
Research continues to show that one of the top reasons a woman chooses abortion is due to a lack of financial resources. Read "Poverty and Abortion: A Vicious Cycle," which explores the connections between abortion and poverty, and how the absence of fathers contributes to this ongoing cycle.

01/18/2026

INTENTION
May every pregnant mother receive compassionate care and support as she nurtures the life in her womb.

PRAYERS
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

REFLECTION
When the angel Gabriel appeared to Mary, she opened her heart to receive his message that she would conceive the Son of God in her womb. As a young bride who had not yet lived with her husband, Mary knew that her pregnancy presented many challenges. Despite this knowledge, she faithfully responded, “Behold, I am the handmaid of the Lord. May it be done to me according to your word” (Luke 1:38).

Like the Blessed Mother, women who unexpectedly become pregnant often face significant challenges. They, too, are called to place their trust in God and faithfully respond to His gift of new life. And we are called to walk with them in their time of need. As Jesus taught us, when we love and serve others, we are loving and serving Him.

May all expectant mothers be encouraged by Mary’s example and receive support and grace in lovingly welcoming their children into the world.

ACTS OF REPARATION
(Choose one.)

Pray for pregnant and parenting moms in need in your local community, and ask the Lord how you can help them by using your unique gifts. (You can sign up for monthly stories of how Catholics across the country are Walking with Moms in Need at walkingwithmoms.com/subscribe.)

Pray the Angelus today. You might also consider saying it every day for the next week—on awakening, at noon, or at 6 p.m. (or all three times).

Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today's intention.

ONE STEP FURTHER
When a woman is facing an unexpected pregnancy, the reaction of the first person she tells tends to set the tone for her decision-making. Pregnancy can be difficult and frightening, but no matter the circumstances, it’s important for an expectant mother to feel supported and loved. Read "10 Ways to Support Her When She’s Unexpectedly Expecting" at https://www.respectlife.org/support-her, for simple tips on how to provide loving, life-affirming support for a friend who is unexpectedly pregnant. Your support may be the only support she receives.

01/17/2026

If you or someone you know is suffering from participation in abortion, confidential, compassionate help is available. Visit hopeafterabortion.org.

INTENTION
May each person suffering from participation in abortion find forgiveness, hope, and healing in Christ.

PRAYERS
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

REFLECTION
Countless children’s lives have been ended by abortion, and countless parents and family members suffer guilt, grief, and regret—often in silence. Yet God’s greatest desire is to forgive. No matter how far we have each strayed from His side, He says to us, “Don’t be afraid. Draw close to my heart.” Be assured that it is never too late to seek God's forgiveness in the Sacrament of Reconciliation.

Consider the parable of the Prodigal Son. After repenting of sinning against his father, he returns from far away to seek forgiveness and work as a servant. But his father sees him approaching, runs to warmly embrace him, and hosts a banquet to celebrate his return. So, too, does God welcome all His children who come to Him in the Sacrament of Reconciliation with contrite hearts, no matter how serious the sin. Let us turn confidently to Our Lord, Who is love and mercy.

ACTS OF REPARATION
(Choose one.)

Abstain from meat today.

Pray the Chaplet of Divine Mercy for today's intention.

Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.

ONE STEP FURTHER
If a friend confided in you that she had an abortion, would you be able to listen and respond in a way that brings her closer to forgiveness and healing? Learn how in "How to Talk to a Friend Who’s Had an Abortion." https://bit.ly/3YDw1Sr

01/16/2026

INTENTION
May the tragic practice of abortion end.

PRAYERS
Our Father, 3 Hail Marys, Glory Be

REFLECTION
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At every stage and in every circumstance, we are held in existence by God’s love. The presence of an illness, disability, or other challenging situation never diminishes the value of a human life. God does not call us to perfection of appearance or abilities, but to perfection in love. Christ invites us to embrace our own lives and the lives of others as true gifts.

Abortion tragically rejects the truth that every life is a good and perfect gift, deserving protection. This violent practice ends the life of a human being at its very beginning and horribly wounds all those involved. But Christ came that we “might have life and have it more abundantly” (John 10:10), taking on human flesh for the sake of our redemption. May our culture experience the power of God’s transforming love, that all eyes may be opened to the incredible beauty of every human life.

(Choose one.)
ACTS OF REPARATION
Take a break from television and movies today. Consider spending some of that time praying with today’s reflection.

Pray the short prayer “Every Life is Worth Living,” reflecting on the gift of human life.

Heavenly Father, thank you for the precious gift of life. Help us to cherish and protect this gift, even in the midst of fear, pain, and suffering. Give us love for all people, especially the most vulnerable, and help us bear witness to the truth that every life is worth living.

Grant us the humility to accept help when we are in need, and teach us to be merciful to all. Through our words and actions, may others encounter the outstretched hands of Your mercy. We ask this through Christ, our Lord.

Amen.

Offer some other sacrifice, prayer, or act of penance that you feel called to do for today’s intention.

ONE STEP FURTHER
​Abortion is frequently a topic in the news, political debates, and everyday conversations with family or friends. Because abortion can be a controversial and emotional issue in any arena, many of us may feel intimidated when the topic arises, not knowing what to say. "Another Look at Abortion" provides a basic overview and summarizes key points. This article will help you be better prepared to witness to the sanctity of human life.