Lenten Retreat for Catholic Schools Held in Perth Amboy
In the spirit of the approaching Easter season, a special Lenten retreat for students of Ukrainian Catholic schools from across the Philadelphia Archeparchy was held at Assumption Catholic School in Perth Amboy, New Jersey. This day of prayer and spiritual renewal brought together students, teachers, principals, and clergy from various corners of the eparchy.
The retreat was led by Fr. Jonathan Kalisch, O.P., Director of Chaplains and Spiritual Development for the Knights of Columbus. Together with the Sisters Servants of the Lord and the Virgin of Matará, Fr. Jonathan guided participants through a series of reflections centered on the theme of hope, which has been proclaimed the focus of this Year of Hope in our Church. In his talks and dialogue with the students, he encouraged them to deepen their relationship with God and to rediscover the source of true hope in Christ, especially during the Lenten season.
Representatives from three Ukrainian Catholic schools took part in the retreat: Rev. Mark Fesniak and Sister Nataliya Stoczanyn from St. Nicholas School in Minersville, PA; Rev. Andriy Dudkevych and principal Kathleen Hutsko from St. Nicholas School in Passaic, NJ; and the host community was represented by Rev. Ivan Turyk and principal Lissette Shumny from Assumption Catholic School in Perth Amboy.
The day was filled with prayer, creative activities, heartfelt discussions, and joyful fellowship. Following the spiritual program, all participants gathered for a shared meal and experienced the warm hospitality of the Perth Amboy parish community. Many guests remarked with appreciation, “This day exceeded all our expectations.”
These Lenten retreated moments became a living testimony to the truth that Easter begins with hope—a hope rooted in faith, community, and prayer.
