Photo by Alan M. Dumoff
Bishop Joseph A. Galante confirms a student in the religious education program at St. John of God Community Services at Holy Angels Parish, St. Patrick Church, Woodbury, on March 31.
On Thursday, March 31, Bishop Joseph A. Galante confirmed special-needs children taking part in the religious education program at St. John of God Community Services. The ceremony took place at Holy Angels Parish, St. Patrick Church, Woodbury.
St. John of God’s Religious Education Program provides individuals with disabilities the opportunity to achieve their fullest potential and an accepting environment where faith can be grown and shared.
The confirmandi at Holy Angels Worship Center in Woodbury were Connor Bierbach; Matthew Dumser; Krystal Hagerthay; David Harkins Jr.; Barbara Kutz; Kara Monichetti; Armand Palestini IV; Stephanie Rehrig; and Nicholas Van Velson.
Two religious education volunteers were recognized for their years of service to the school: Hank Wozunk (34 years) and Ventress Truax (20 years). Each was presented with a small cross with the Our Father etched on it.
Brother Thomas Osorio, prior for the Hospitaller Order of St. John of God, called the confirmation a blessed time for the confirmandi, their families and the religious education staff.
“When we come together, with all of our different abilities, church becomes very authentic,” he said.
St. John of God Community Services, with locations in Westville Grove and Pittsgrove Township, has been providing special education, vocational and habilitative services to South Jersey residents from birth to adulthood since 1967.