Here at OLP, we're facing some significant changes within the next year, and we’ve now reached a very important moment in the life of our parish. By now, you’re probably tired of hearing me speak about We Are His Witnesses initiative from the Archdiocese. It began several months ago with the surveys that many of you filled out, and I’m very thankful for your help with that.

In short, this We Are His Witnesses process is the Archdiocese’s response to many changes that are going on in the world and impacting the Church: things like shifting demographics, fewer people attending Mass regularly or even interested in receiving the sacraments, as well as the decline of priests being ordained and able to serve all the parishes, to name only a few factors. To make sure the Church remains strong for many years to come, the Archdiocese is taking a close look at how our parishes will be able to serve our communities. As we spoke, this will consist of the closing and consolidation of many parishes throughout the Archdiocese - which means every parish will be impacted in some way, shape or form.

Right now, one of the possibilities being discussed by the Archdiocese is a potential consolidation between us and The Church of the Little Flower in Berkeley Heights. I want to make sure everyone understands: at this point, this is a strong possibility that the Archdiocese is considering, but no final decisions have been made yet. They are still in the information and feedback stage and wants to hear from each parish as they make their decisions.

Many of you have asked me, what can you do as parishioners? The number one thing you can do right now is to continue to show how alive OLP is, by sharing about our parish and inviting others to participate. Thank you to all of you who attended our parishioner sessions and showed just how much our church means to you. Another way to demonstrate how alive we are as a parish is by engaging with our Facebook and Instagram platforms and sharing your photos and experiences at OLP. Please like, comment and share on your own pages, or send us photos via messages!

Thank you for making OLP the faith-filled parish community that it is. May Our Lady of Peace be with us always. Don't forget to pray!

-Fr. Francisco