The annual Mass for World Day for Consecrated Life will be held on February 3rd at 4 p.m. at St. Therese of Lisieux Church in Cresskill. Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., will celebrate the Mass, and all are invited to attend. This celebration, instituted by then-Pope John Paul II in 1997, is held every year on the Feast of the Presentation of the Lord, also known as Candlemas Day. It commemorates the coming of Christ, the Light of the World, through the symbolic lighting of candles. The Mass serves as a reminder that consecrated men and women are called to spread the light and love of Jesus Christ through their selfless service.

During the Mass, the Archdiocese of Newark will recognize consecrated religious who are celebrating milestone or "jubilee" anniversaries. This special day, celebrated worldwide on February 2nd, will be observed in parishes across the Archdiocese over the weekend of February 3-4. The purpose of this celebration is to highlight the important work of consecrated men and women in the community.

Cardinal Joseph W. Tobin, C.Ss.R., expressed his gratitude and prayers for those who have made commitments in the consecrated life on their special day. He said, "Let us pray for and thank all those who have made commitments in the consecrated life on their special day. May they continue to draw inspiration from Jesus Christ and generously respond to God’s gift of their vocation."

Sister Patricia Wormann, O.P., Delegate for Religious, also emphasized the significance of World Day for Consecrated Life. She said, "This day is an opportunity for us to come together and celebrate the dedication and selflessness of those who have chosen a life of consecration. It is a chance to recognize their commitment and to pray for them as they continue to serve the Church and the community."

For those interested in learning more about World Day for Consecrated Life, the US Conference of Catholic Bishops website provides additional information. To delve deeper into consecrated life at the Archdiocese of Newark, visit the website rcan.org/vocations-for-religious-life.

The Mass on February 3rd will be a momentous occasion to honor and appreciate the devotion of consecrated men and women. It is an opportunity for the community to come together and express gratitude for their tireless efforts in spreading the light and love of Jesus Christ.