Nearly eight dozen people aged 80 and older gathered Oct. 5 with their families and friends for the annual VITALity Catholic Healthcare Services Mass for centenarians, nonagenarians and octogenarians. During the Mass celebrated by Bishop Joseph Williams, the faithful – the oldest of which was 104 – were recognized for their wisdom, spirituality, joy and hope.
In his homily, Bishop Williams spoke about the necessity of faith, especially during the trying times, and how that faith guides all through life’s challenges. “The day was a beautiful testament to the power of presence and the need for gatherings such as this to honor those who have laid the faith foundation for the next generations,” said Nicole Keefer, VITALity’s executive director. More than 20 parishes were represented at the celebration and following luncheon at Saint Isidore the Farmer Church, Christ the Good Shepherd Parish, Vineland. Bishop Williams also blessed a box of rosaries made by a 97-year-old woman, who after lamenting that she wasn’t able to give as much time to her parish as she once could, was encouraged to craft rosaries.
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