The Church in New Jersey

Bishop Michael Saporito of the Archdiocese of Newark provided a review of the We Are His Witnesses pastoral planning process in a recent update. The review tracks the progress of the planning from its beginning through the fall of 2026.

The update outlines the original intentions of the planning process and the initial steps taken by the Archdiocese. Bishop Saporito also addressed the current challenges facing the Church of Newark and explained the reasons for changes made during the planning stages.

The Archdiocese of Newark has released a guide to answer questions about the We Are His Witnesses initiative. Launched by Archbishop Joseph W. Tobin on Pentecost in June 2025, the pastoral program is based on the apostolic exhortation Evangelii Gaudium by Pope Francis.

The initiative seeks to renew parish vitality and missionary discipleship through evangelization and pastoral care. It encourages bishops, priests, deacons, religious, and laypeople to participate in listening and shared action to reimagine parish ministry.

Archdiocese officials stated the program responds to declining Mass attendance, sacramental participation, and parish membership. The initiative also addresses a decreasing number of priests available to serve as pastors despite a growing regional population.

Bishop Saporito of the Archdiocese of Newark has released a reflection and discussion guide to connect the We Are His Witnesses program with the mission of the Church.

The materials link the work of the program to the mandate to introduce people to Christ and build his reign on earth. The reflection uses Scripture, recent papal teachings, and modern stories to encourage people to spread the Gospel.

The Archdiocese provides a video and a downloadable guide to help individuals and groups live as missionary disciples.

The Archdiocese of Newark has posted a job opening for a full-time customer service representative for Catholic Cemeteries. The position involves assisting Catholic families, funeral directors, vendors, and the public with cemetery office needs.

The successful candidate must be willing to work at any of the 11 Catholic cemetery locations across five counties in the northern New Jersey region. Requirements for the role include a college degree or five years of equivalent experience, strong computer skills in Microsoft Word and Excel, and the ability to work in a fast-paced environment.

The Archdiocese offers an annual salary between $37,000 and $41,000. Benefits include medical, prescription, and vision insurance, dental insurance, basic life and accidental death and dismemberment insurance, a pension plan, short-term disability, and a voluntary 403b plan.

St. John Paul II Regional School in Stratford is seeking an immediate substitute teacher for its second grade. The school requires candidates to be practicing Catholics with a degree in elementary education.