The Saint Peter’s University community was proud to welcome Joseph William Cardinal Tobin, C.Ss.R., the Sixth Archbishop of Newark, to St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church to preside over the Jersey City North Deanery Mass. Cardinal Tobin was joined at the altar by 14 priests from various Jersey City parishes where hundreds of worshipers from Deanery 10 and other Jersey City parishes were excited to be part of the English/Spanish Mass and hear Cardinal Tobin speak.
His sermon focused on the idea that people have an incorrect perception of Jesus, the same way it is possible to get the wrong idea about our peers.
“We judge others based on outward appearance, but do we really know them?” Cardinal Tobin asked.
He advised that people should keep the face of Jesus in mind so they can recognize Him. Cardinal Tobin suggested that knowing ourselves is an important step in the process of getting to know others and that Jesus has a grasp on people who believe when they trust in Him.
Rev. Rocco Danzi S.J., vice president for mission & ministry at Saint Peter’s University, reflected on the Mass, “The Deanery Mass with Cardinal Tobin was truly inspirational. Despite the rains that night, the Church felt so warm and welcoming thanks to the Cardinal’s manner, message and inclusive style. He celebrated the Mass in English and Spanish and touched all with a sense of care and love. In the spirit of Pope Francis, Cardinal Joseph Tobin is a shepherd who desires to be with the people.”
Jason Downer, S.J., special assistant to the vice president in the Office of Mission and Ministry, shared Fr. Rocco’s sentiments, “On a cold and rainy night in Jersey it was moving to see over 500 people come to St. Aedan’s: The Saint Peter’s University Church to hear from and be with Cardinal Tobin. It was clear that he is first and foremost a pastor and I think that will be great for the people of the Archdiocese.”
Cardinal Tobin’s visit was impactful in the community and proved that he is a people-person, and ready to make changes that will affect local parishes.
