When the COVID-19 pandemic struck, plunging the world into uncertainty, South Jersey’s faithful looked to their shepherd, Bishop Dennis Sullivan, for guidance. His steady leadership during this crisis, coupled with a deep pastoral concern for his flock, defined his tenure as Bishop of Camden.
In March 2020, Bishop Sullivan made the difficult decision to suspend public Masses and move Catholic schools in the Diocese to virtual learning, aligning with state and federal safety regulations. He acknowledged the weight of these choices, calling them “one of the most painful decisions I’ve ever made.” He emphasized the need to balance public health with spiritual life.
To keep the faithful connected, he led live-streamed Eucharistic celebrations from his residence, setting an example for parishes to follow. His ongoing communications provided clarity amid uncertainty, ensuring that Catholics remained informed about evolving safety guidelines. “We will soldier on for as long as we need to,” he assured.
Bishop Sullivan’s leadership resonated deeply within the Diocese. “He gave us a message of hope – that this, too, would pass,” said Deacon Anthony Cioe of Saints Peter and Paul Parish in Turnersville.
Father Joseph Szolack of Our Lady of Hope Parish in Blackwood reflected on the early days of the pandemic. “Everything was happening so quickly,” he said.
He credited the Bishop’s pastoral instincts – shaped by years of parish ministry in New York –with guiding the Diocese through the crisis. “He knew the impact the pandemic was going to have on parish life. He was concerned about the faithful’s safety and responded with a pastoral heart.”
Live-streamed Masses became a crucial way to maintain faith communities. Drawing inspiration from the prophet Jonah, Bishop Sullivan likened the pandemic’s isolation to being “swallowed in the tombs this virus created,” encouraging Catholics to trust that “with faith in Christ, we will come out alive.”
Recognizing the importance of technology in maintaining spiritual connections, he empowered parishes to embrace digital outreach.
“He led the way in using technology to reach the faithful,” Father Szolack said. “People felt connected.”
Beyond churches, Bishop Sullivan ensured Catholic schools adapted effectively. Alice Malloy, principal of Our Lady of Mount Carmel Regional School in Berlin, credited him with having a “keen interest in the schools” and staying actively involved in pandemic-related decisions.
In September 2020, as churches and schools reopened, Bishop Sullivan encouraged a return to in-person Mass, emphasizing that “there is no real substitute for the communal public worship of the Church.” Citing Cardinal Robert Sarah’s pastoral guidance, he stressed the importance of gathering as a faith community: “We cannot be without the house of the Lord, which is our home.”
Dr. Robert Lockwood, assistant superintendent for South Jersey Catholic Schools, praised the Bishop’s unwavering commitment to students’ well-being. “Bishop Sullivan wanted everyone safe, healthy and learning. He understood the importance of getting students back into the classroom.”
The Diocese’s schools adapted swiftly, implementing safety measures, contact tracing and remote learning options.
“Returning to school was something we knew we needed to do for our students,” said Camden Catholic High School principal Heather Crisci. “With the faculty, families and strong diocesan leadership, we developed a solid plan.”
Bishop Sullivan regularly visited schools, reassuring students and staff. “The fact that Bishop Sullivan was unafraid to visit the schools spoke volumes,” Malloy said. His presence reinforced his commitment to Catholic education, reminding students of the gift of their faith-based schooling.
The Bishop’s leadership extended beyond pandemic response. Under his guidance, schools maintained strong academic programs, integrating virtual options to ensure continuity. The Diocese even saw an increase in enrollment as families sought in-person learning. “We attracted new students because we were open for in-person learning, and most of those students stayed,” Dr. Lockwood said.
At the first Catholic high school graduation after schools reopened, Bishop Sullivan reflected on lessons from the pandemic. “The common good is a necessity for a civilized and enlightened society,” he said, quoting Saint John Paul II’s call for solidarity. “We are in this together.”
His response to the pandemic exemplified his commitment to the Church and her people, ensuring that even in the darkest moments, the light of faith remained strong.
“His words carried us and helped us stay strong,” Deacon Cioe said. “He has been a model of presence.”
Staff writer Peter G. Sánchez and correspondent Michael Bress contributed to this article.
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