Diocese Of Metuchen - Podcast Details

Shows

The DROP PodcastAlex Champagne’s Journey from Ridgewood to Metuchen Golf & CCWhat does it take to rise through the ranks in New Jersey golf? This week on The DROP Podcast, we sat down with Alex Champagne, the newly appointed Head Golf Professional at Metuchen Golf & Country Club.Alex reflects on his time learning under Dave Reasoner at Ridgewood CC, the mentorship that shaped him, and the vision he’s bringing to one of Middlesex County’s most beloved courses.Whether you're a Metuchen member, a Ridgewood regular, or simply passionate about the people shaping Garden State golf, this episode offers a ca...2025-04-2447 min

Am I Not HereSharing Our Sacred Story #85Tara and Jerry sit down with Tony Varas, Director of the Worship Office, as they give thanks to God for his ten years of service to the Church of Metuchen. Tony shares with us the impact of liturgical life and the sacred journey he has walked dedicated to the people of God in the Church of Metuchen. 2022-05-1530 min

North Brunswick Raiders Baseball/SoftballNorth Brunswick Baseball vs. Metuchen: Senior NightWe have Senior Night at North Brunswick Community Park, as the Raiders host the Metuchen Bulldogs. North Brunswick(11-7) will look to senior righty Aaron Neder on the mound, while Metuchen(8-8) hands the ball to Francesco Rossiter(NR).2022-05-112h 29

Am I Not HereStations of the Cross with Bishop Checchio #83As the Church enters Holy week we welcome the Most Rev. James F. Checchio, Bishop of Metuchen to lead us in a prayerful journey through the stations of the cross with the parish community of St. Cecelia, Iselin. Music is provided by the Cathedral Vocal Quartet. 2022-04-1131 min

Am I Not HereSongs of Healing and the Journey to Celtic Lent #82 #On March 19, 2020, as the world began to shut down due to the coronavirus pandemic, Tara and Jerry found Nathan Bishop, a violinist, and Bridget Knodel, a classical and folk harpist in the choir loft of Saint Francis of Assisi Cathedral. In the loft, they recorded the newly composed piece ‘Song of Healing’ by Tim Keyes, and the two-year journey together to Celtic Lent began; their concert was initially scheduled just days before the pandemic shutdown. Two years later, they joyfully welcome them both to the podcast to speak on their journey, the healing of music, and how it p...2022-04-0450 min

Am I Not HereOur 40 Act Impact #80Tara and Tiffany sit down with Julio Coto, LCSW, Executive Director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Metuchen to discuss the importance of the works of mercy in our everyday life. In celebration of the 40th Anniversary of the establishment of the Diocese of Metuchen, we invite you to make a commitment – a commitment to doing 40 works of mercy, a commitment to serving one another with the same love and mercy bestowed on us by the Father, and a commitment to the Lord to witness to His great love in the four beautiful counties of the Diocese of Metuchen. Fi...2022-03-1325 min

Am I Not HereTo Be A Listening Church #79As the Diocese of Metuchen prepares to enter into a period of listening sessions for the Synod on Synodality, Jerry invites each of us to reflect on the message from Msgr. John Fell, Director of Priest Personnel and the Director of Vocations on the importance of being a 'Listening Church' Msgr. John Fell's homily was recorded at the Parish of St. Bartholomew in East Brunswick during the diocesan eucharistic forty hours for the Synod on Synodality. 2022-02-1444 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena 2022 - Day 9As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. All the fa...2022-01-2708 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena 2022 - Day 8As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. 2022-01-2606 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena 2022 - Day 7As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. All the fa...2022-01-2507 min

Am I Not HereAnswering the Lord's Call #77This week Tiffany, Tara, and Jerry open up and reflect on Bishop Checchio's newest pastoral letter, 'Answering the Lord's Call through Prayer, Works of Mercy, and Vocations' on the occasion of the 40th Anniversary of the Diocese of Metuchen. You can read Bishop Checchio's Pastoral Letter at www.diometuchen.org/our-bishop 2022-01-2537 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena 2022 - Day 6As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. All the fai...2022-01-2406 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena 2022 - Day 5As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. All the faithful of the...2022-01-2307 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena - Day 4As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. All the fai...2022-01-2208 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena 2022 - Day 3As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. All the faith...2022-01-2106 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena 2022 - Day 2As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. All the faith...2022-01-2007 min

Am I Not Here9 Days for Life Novena 2022 - Day 1As the Church in the United States prepares to commemorate the Day of Prayer for the Legal Protection of Unborn Children, the Diocese of Metuchen invites the faithful to join in a prayerful novena for the protection of all life, from conception to natural death, as part of their local participation in the 9 Days for Life Novena. The 9 Days for Life Novena is prayed annually each January for the protection of human life. Each day’s intention is accompanied by a short reflection and suggested actions to help build a culture of life. All the faith...2022-01-1907 min

Am I Not HereOur Multilingual Mission #69Adhering to the request from Bishop James F. Checchio for prayers for the Synod on Synodality and in honor of World Mission Sunday, Tara and Jerry dedicate their time this week to pray the rosary for the synod, our local church, and for an outpouring of the Holy Spirit on our missionary work. Tara and Jerry are joined by their friends, Sr. Anna Nguyen, SCC, Sr. Dong Hong Marie Zhang, CSSF, Br. Steven Bolton, CO and Luz Escobar of the diocesan Office of Hispanic Evangelization to pray a multilingual rosary in English, Vietnamese, Mandarin Chinese, Latin, and S...2021-10-2430 min

Am I Not HereOur Synodal Journey Begins! #68As the Church throughout the world officially opens the diocesan phase of the 16th Ordinary General Assembly of the Synod of Bishops For a Synodal Church: Communion, Participation, and Mission, Tara and Jerry give an update on what is taking place in the Diocese of Metuchen how we can prepare to respond to the spirit, who is already moving in our local Church. More information is available at www.diometuchen.org/synod2023 2021-10-1730 min

Am I Not HereCrossing the Bridge #67In honor of Hispanic Heritage month, Tara and Jerry welcome Luz Escobar and Allan Caballero of the diocesan Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry to discuss the importance of building a bridge between cultures and crossing the bridge together in faith. Hispanic Heritage Month is celebrated nationally from September 15 - October 15 annually. You can find more information about Hispanic ministry within the Diocese of Metuchen can be found at www.diometuchen.org/hispanicministry 2021-10-1142 min

Am I Not HereThe Blue Mass #66At 10:30 AM on September 29th – the Feast of Ss. Michael, Gabriel, and Raphael, Archangels – Bishop James F. Checchio will celebrate the 19th Annual Blue Mass at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi in Metuchen. Gathered together with local, county, state, and federal law enforcement officials, we will honor and pray for those law enforcement officials of all faiths who live and work in the Diocese of Metuchen. Tara and Jerry sit down with David Irizarry, Chief of Police, Metuchen Borough Police, to discuss this year's mass. 2021-09-2650 min

Am I Not HereSay the Word! #65Say the Word! As we celebrate Catechetical Sunday, Tara and Jerry welcome John Kobiernicki, Parish Catechetical Leader (PCL) at St. Mary's Parish in South Amboy, NJ to discuss the life and journey of the PCL. The ministry of the Word is a fundamental element of evangelization through all its stages because it involves the proclamation of Jesus Christ, the eternal Word of God 2021-09-1943 min

Am I Not HereWind and Rain, Bless the Lord!After historic floods devastated our parish communities over a week ago due to the remanents of Hurricane Ida, Tara and Jerry dedicated their time this week to reflect on the importance of surrender and the call to support our brothers and sisters in the most need right in our backyard. 2021-09-1232 min

Am I Not HereTwenty Years Later #63Before joining the diocese to serve as the diocesan director for the Office of the Diaconate in 2016, Deacon Stephen Kern worked in the World Trade Center as an attorney for the Port Authority of New York and New Jersey. He was on the sixty-second floor of the North Tower of the World Trade Center on September 11, 2001. Twenty years later, Deacon Kern shares with us his story of survival and mission for service since that fateful day. 2021-09-0548 min

Am I Not HereA New Ministry Year #62This week Jerry sits down with Bob Ferretti, Youth Minister at St. Joseph Parish in Millstone, NJ. Their discussion highlights the ongoing fruits of Synod on Young People, the Faith, and Discernment and how to respond to a changing world in youth ministry amidst a pandemic. 2021-08-2930 min

Am I Not HereMary Our Queen #61After what seems to be a challenging week, Tara and Jerry sit down to discuss the patronal feast day of the Diocese of Metuchen, the feast of the Queenship of Mary. Listen as they reflect on the preparation for the fortieth anniversary of the establishment of the Diocese of Metuchen and the mission of the Church in Central New Jersey. BONUS: Jerry and Tara find prophetic words of the founder of the Diocese of Metuchen, St. John Paul II, on the importance of looking to the Blessed Mother for intercession. 2021-08-2226 min

Am I Not HereWell Done Good and Faithful Servant. #60"His master said to him, ‘Well done, my good and faithful servant. Since you were faithful in small matters, I will give you great responsibilities. Come, share your master’s joy." -Matthew 25:23 After 20+ years serving in the Diocese of Metuchen, Tara and Jerry dedicate their week to Thomas DeLessio, Director of Music of the Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi, and Coordinator of Liturgical Music for the Diocese of Metuchen. As Thom marks the end of his journey with us, he reflects on the joys of the journey of a musician with great faith. Come Septe...2021-08-1549 min

Am I Not HereCatholic Life is Public LifeThis week Tara and Jerry welcome their good friend Jennifer Ruggiero back to discuss how developing responses to and understanding our local public policy can be an opportunity to light hearts on fire for evangelization. Jennifer serves as the Secretary of the Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life, Director of the Office of Human Life & Dignity, the Chairperson of the Diocese of Metuchen's Public Policy Committee, and a part of the statewide task force on addiction. 2021-08-0847 min

Am I Not HereOlympic Faith #58What do Grace McCallum, Sydney McLaughlin, and Hidilyn Diaz have in common? Besides being Olympic champions, they show us how sports and the Olympic movement can be an opportunity for evangelization. This week, join Tara and Jerry as they discuss their top five evangelical moments thus far of the #Tokyo2020 Olympic Games. 2021-08-0138 min

Am I Not HereWorld Day for Grandparents and the Elderly #57This week Tara and Jerry sit down with their in-house grandmother, Angela Marshall of St. James, Woodbridge, as the Church marks the first World Day for Grandparents and the Elderly. Angela shares how the little things she does with her grandchildren spark curiosity for the faith and a relationship with Jesus. Feeling called to share in family life and the pro-life movement, Angela also serves as the Program Coordinator for the Office of Human Life and Dignity for the Diocese of Metuchen. 2021-07-2635 min

Am I Not HereWhat is Natural Family Planning? #56This week Jerry sits down with our own diocesan natural family planning instructors, Dan and Megan Carducci, as they share insights and information about the process of Natural Family Planning (NFP). As they give a brief overview of the process and the course, they also dispel many misconceptions associated with NFP and the Church's view. Find out more about Natural Family Planning in the Diocese of Metuchen at diometuchen.org/natural-family-planning 2021-07-1842 min

Am I Not HereBe Living Stones #55"like living stones, let yourselves be built into a spiritual house...” - 1 Peter 2:5 This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Enza Cerami, Founder of Living Stones. The mission of Living Stones is to proclaim the Gospel of Jesus Christ from teens to young adults and inspire them to live out the call of chastity Find out more at: https://www.livingstoneschastity.org/about 2021-07-1143 min

Am I Not HereWhere are you going #54This week, Tara and Jerry open up about the week that was, highlighting the celebration of Ordinations to the Priesthood and Transitional Diaconate, 'Quo Vadis' Days, and what really took place at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop's June General Assembly Meeting. - Link mentioned in this episode: Information about the discussion around the eucharist at the USCCB Meeting can be found at https://www.usccb.org/meaning-eucharist-life-church 2021-06-2731 min

Am I Not HereThis is Family Life #53This week Tara and Jerry join around the table with Allan Caballero and Cristina D'Averso Collins to talk about the Lighting Hearts on Fire Pastoral Movement's 'The Joy of Love and Family' Conference Series. More information about the conference series is available at www.lightingheartsonfire.org/joylovefamily 2021-06-2041 min

Am I Not HereA Joyful Life #52This week Tara and Jerry share the table with our own Seminarian Ronal Vega-Pastrana as he enlightens us once again the life of a seminarian and his hopes as he takes one of the final steps towards the priesthood. Ronal will be ordained By Bishop Checchio to the transitional diaconate on June 19th at the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Asbury, NJ. - Four men are scheduled to be ordained to the priesthood and one to the transitional diaconate – all for the diocese June 19, 11 a.m., at the National Blue Ar...2021-06-1344 min

Am I Not HereJust Say Yes! #51This week Tara and Jerrys sit down with Rev. Timothy Christy, VG the Vicar General and Vicar for Evangelization and Communications for the Diocese of Metuchen. Rev. Timothy Christy shares through his own experience how the spirit continued to move him to say yes to new adventures and work in evangelization. Learn more about the role of the Vicar General at https://diometuchen.org/vicar-general 2021-06-0649 min

KJRN Featured Live Games#2 South Brunswick vs. #3 Metuchen: GMC Softball Tournament SemifinalsOur second GMC Softball Tournament semifinal game features two potent offenses with #2 South Brunswick(15-4) and #3 Metuchen(16-6). It will be a pair of sophomore pitchers in the circle, as Morgan Indyk(4-0) of South Brunswick takes on Abby Kozo(12-6) for Metuchen.2021-06-032h 03

Am I Not HereIt's Time! #50In light of the announcement of the New Jersey Bishops Reinstating the General Obligation to Attend Mass, Tara and Jerry sit down to discuss what this all means, as well as diving into some spiritual encouragement, to get back to mass on Sunday. --- Read the Full Statement from the NJ Catholic Conference at https://njcatholic.org/news/httpnjcatholicorgnews-8 2021-05-3034 min

Am I Not HereCan you Evangelize? #49Do you think you can evangelize? Did you know you do not have to be an expert to evangelize in your own home? This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Allan Wright, Principal of Koinonia Academy in Plainfield, NJ. As a local resident of the diocese, Allan has taught, traveled, and spent much of his life proclaiming the gospel. He joins around the table to share some practical ways that may just light new hearts on fire. 2021-05-2354 min

North Brunswick Raiders Baseball/SoftballNorth Brunswick Baseball @ Metuchen: GMC Tournament First RoundWe are at the 35th annual Greater Middlesex Conference Baseball Tournament, where the #9 North Brunswick Raiders(13-7-1) travel to Metuchen to battle the #8 Metuchen Bulldogs(14-3).A pair of Rutgers commits will be on the mound, as Zach Konstantinovsky(4-0, 2.00) is on the mound for North Brunswick, while senior Matt Rowe(5-0) goes for the Bulldogs of Metuchen.North Brunswick looks for their first trip to the GMCT quarterfinals since 2010.2021-05-223h 10

Am I Not HereYou are a Communicator #48This week, Tara and Jerry discuss the work of evangelization through the life of a communicator as they celebrate the 2021 World Communications Day. - Read the message from Pope Francis for the 2021 World Communications Day at www.diometuchen.org/communications 2021-05-1636 min

Am I Not HereOur Brother #47As we honor the gift of our Religious Brothers within the diocese, Tara and Jerry sit down with Br. Patrick Reilly, BH of the Brotherhood of Hope to discuss the life of a brother and how this particular call supports the mission of building the kingdom right in our own backyard. - The Brotherhood of Hope is a community of Catholic Brothers who live together, pray together and serve together, under the inspiration of our founding charism that Jesus Christ is All-Sufficient. More information on the brotherhood could be found at https://brotherhoodofhope.or...2021-05-0946 min

Am I Not HereReconciled to God #46This week, Tara and Jerry, honor the fifth anniversary of the ordination and installation of the Most Rev. James F. Checchio as the Fifth Bishop of Metuchen. Journey with them as they share their favorite moments and how Bishop Checchio has brought renewal and new life to each of us. - The Most Rev. James F. Checchio was named the Bishop of the Diocese of Metuchen by Pope Francis on March 8, 2016. He was ordained and installed as the Fifth Bishop of Metuchen on May 3, 2016. More information can be found at www.diometuchen.or...2021-05-0258 min

The Freshman Foundation® PodcastThe Freshman Foundation Podcast Episode 10: Jan Cocozziello, Head Basketball Coach, Saint Joseph High School (Metuchen, NJ)Jan Cocozziello is the Head Basketball Coach at Saint Joseph High School in Metuchen, NJ. “Joe’s” is one of the most storied high school programs in New Jersey producing NBA first-round draft picks Andrew Bynum, Jay Williams, Karl Anthony Towns, and Wade Baldwin. Jan was a four-year letter winner at Hartwick College, where he led his team to an Eastern Collegiate Athletic Conference championship as a senior. He is the third all-time leading scorer in school history with 1,868 points. Jan played basketball professionally in China for one season before returning to the United States to serv...2021-04-271h 02

Am I Not HereThe Mom Squad #45This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Lindsay Schlegel, Mother, Author, and fellow Podcast Host to discuss the reality of family life in the Year of the Family. -- Lindsay is the author of Don't Forget to Say Thank You: And Other Parenting Lessons That Brought Me Closer to God and the host of the weekly podcast, Quote Me with Lindsay Schlegel. More information about Lindsay can be found at https://lindsayschlegel.com 2021-04-2538 min

Am I Not HereFeed My Lambs #44In lieu of our weekly conversation, we invite you to reflect on Bishop Checchio's Homily from the Holy Hour for Vocations at St. Peter the Apostle Community and University Parish in New Brunswick, NJ 2021-04-1814 min

Am I Not HereOur Life-Giving Wounds #43This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Dr. Daniel and Bethany Meola, co-founders and co-directors of Life-Giving Wounds Ministry. Their mission is to help young adults and adults with divorced and separated parents give voice to their pain and find deep spiritual healing. They do this by providing unique means for Christ to transform their life-draining wounds into life-giving resources of faith, hope, love, and joy for themselves, their relationships, and the Church. Life-Giving Wounds will be providing a Virtual Retreat in the Diocese of Metuchen over the course of three Saturdays (April 17, April 24, Ma...2021-04-1144 min

Am I Not HerePastor in a Pandemic #42Ever wonder what it is like to be a pastor during Holy Week? How about life as a Pastor in a pandemic? On this Palm Sunday, Tara and Jerry sit down with Fr. Abraham Orapankal, Pastor of St. Matthias Parish, Somerset to discuss the lessons of the year and how implementing communications tools have become the gifts in sharing the Gospel Message.2021-03-2841 min

Am I Not HereCare with Compassion #41This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Sr. Angela Given, a sister of the Little Servant Sisters of the Immaculate Conception who serves at the St. Joseph Senior Home in Woodbridge, NJ. Sr. Angela shares the view from her eyes of what happened during the coronavirus pandemic's height, along with the many miracles that followed. 2021-03-2145 min

Am I Not HereA Story to Tell #40The stories to tell! This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Thomas Smith, Director of the Office of Stewardship and Development, to discuss the year that has become a year of gratitude. -- We invite you to join us on our mission to Light a Fire in the Heart of the Church, a mission that can only be accomplished with your help and your support. Please consider making a donation today to this year’s Bishop’s Annual Appeal to help us continue our mission. To Donate visit: www.diometuchen.org/baa 2021-03-1447 min

Am I Not HereStill with Purpose #39Tara and Jerry sit down with their favorite unofficial co-host Jennifer Ruggiero as they discuss the upcoming celebrations honoring our elderly within our diocese. 2021-03-0729 min

Am I Not HerePrayer and Remembrance #38As the nation marks the milestone of over 500,000 related deaths, Tara and Jerry dedicated their time this week to pray. They offer the rosary for all the faithful departed, for those hurting within our diocesan family, and for healing in our land. Join them for a moment of prayer and reflection. --- How do you pray the rosary? Visit https://www.usccb.org/how-to-pray-the-rosary 2021-02-2824 min

Am I Not HereOur Lenten Challenge #37This week, Tara and Jerry discuss the importance of the Lenten challenge. Are you ready? 2021-02-2133 min

Am I Not HereLasting Love #36This week, Tara and Jerry celebrate World Marriage Day 2021 as they welcome Marty and Dotty Slyman, who are celebrating 62 Years of Wedded Bliss! Dotty and Marty Slyman are parishioners of St. Matthias Parish in Somerset, NJ. They have served as Pre-Cana Leaders for over 15 years, preparing countless couples for the sacrament of matrimony. 2021-02-1440 min

Am I Not HereThe Joy of Consecrated Life #35This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Sr. Anna Nguyen, SCC, Delegate for Religious as she shares the joys of those who share in consecrated life within the Diocese of Metuchen. On the weekend of February 5-6, 2021 the Church celebrates World Day of Prayer for Consecrated Life. 2021-02-0736 min

Am I Not HereOur Purpose Our Schools #34This week Tara and Jerry kick off the celebration of Catholic Schools Week 2021 as they welcome Ellen F. Ayoub, Secretary for Education, and Barbara Stevens, Assistant Superintendent for the Diocese of Metuchen as they discuss our purpose of catholic education within our schools. Find out more at www.diometuchen.org/csw 2021-01-3144 min

Am I Not HereHot Coals and Creative Courage #33This week Tara and Jerry welcome back Megan Vantslot, diocesan director of youth and young adult evangelization as she share with all of us her vision for the young people within the diocese. 2021-01-2437 min

Am I Not HerePro-Vita #32This week Tara sits down welcomes back Jennifer Ruggerio, Director of the Office of Human Life and Dignity and Frances Johnson, one of this year's recipients of the diocesan Pro-Vita awards. This year's Pro-Vita Winners are Frances Johnson and Frank McCann. Frances Johnson is the Director of the Pregnancy Aid and Information Center in Raritan and Frank McCann is the Treasurer of New Jersey Right to Life. Both Frances and Frank are members of St. Matthias Parish in Somerset.2021-01-1700 min

Am I Not HereTwenty Twenty WON #31This week Tara and Jerry welcome in the new year with a review of holy habits to engage a real renewal for our Christian life and make 2021 a real year to be Twenty Twenty WON. Read the full list at: https://www.ncregister.com/features/holy-habits-20-new-year-s-resolutions 2021-01-1038 min

Am I Not HereAm I Talking Catholic? #30In a special crossover podcast, this week Tara and Jerry sit down with their friends Mike Walsh and Mary McCusker of the Diocese of Camden's Podcast 'Talking Catholic' as they dive into the life of a diocesan communicator. Each week the Talking Catholic hosts interview Catholic leaders about what brought them to where they are now and how they are bringing the faith to their communities. Listen to Talking Catholic: https://talking.catholicstarherald.org/2020-12-2755 min

Am I Not HereLight of the World #29This week Tara and Jerry sit down to discuss the Diocese of Metuchen's Christmas Initiative 'Light of the World' Keeping Christmas Alive and how the Year of St. Joseph brings us full circle this holy season. Join us this Christmas at www.lightingheartsonfire.org/lightoftheworld 2020-12-2041 min

Am I Not HereNostra Aetate #28This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Rev. Guy Selvester, diocesan director of the Office of Ecumenical & Interfaith Affairs to shed light on the Second Vatican Council's document 'Nostra Aetate' as the Church marks the 55th Anniversary of its declaration on the relation of the Church to non-christian religions. Rev. Guy Selvester also serves as Pastor at St. Joseph Church in Washington, NJ. 2020-12-1351 min

Am I Not HereLighting Hearts of Renewal #27This week, Tara and Jerry honor the podcast's patroness, Our Lady of Guadalupe, and reflect on how we need renewal during these unique times. The Diocese of Metuchen enters a Season of Renewal celebrating the first anniversary of the diocesan consecration to Jesus through Our Lady of Guadalupe. Find out more at www.lightingheartsonfire.org 2020-12-0626 min

Am I Not HereDear Young People #26This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Megan Vantslot, who was recently appointed the new diocesan director of Youth and Young Adult Evangelization and ministry. Megan Vantlost is a parishioner at Immaculate Conception Parish in Annandale. 2020-11-2244 min

Am I Not HereSinging with Saint Cecilia #25In honor of our pastoral musicians and the upcoming feast of St. Cecilia, Jerry and Tara sit down with Tony Varas, diocesan director of the Office of Worship, and Thom DeLessio the diocesan coordinator for Liturgical Music to discuss the joys and challenges of our pastoral musicians. 2020-11-1440 min

Am I Not HereBeyond the Election #24#AmINotHere This week Tara and Jerry sit down to unpack the events of the recent week and reflect on how as Catholics we are called to live faithful citizenship beyond the election.2020-11-0731 min

Am I Not HereThe Active Life #23This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Sr. Anna Palka, SJH of the Sisters of Jesus Our Hope, and Rev. Mauricio Tabera-Vasquez, the diocesan Vocations Recruiter and Chaplain to the Catholic Center at Rutgers University as they share their journey towards a fruitful vocation as we celebrate this National Vocations Awareness Week. 2020-11-0151 min

Am I Not HereKnowing Jesus #22This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Sara Sharlow of the Office of RCIA to speak about the transformative stories of this year's RCIA candidates and catechumens.2020-10-2442 min

Am I Not HereChurch Everything Month #21This week, Tara and Jerry open up the latest encyclical from Pope Francis "Fratelli Tutti" and how we can use it as the guide to what seems to be a very busy season for all of us!2020-10-1641 min

Am I Not HereWe are Champions #20 #AmINotHere This week Tara and Jerry sit down with Julio Coto of Catholic Charities and Thomas Smith of the Office of Stewardship and Development to share and discuss the miracles taking place over the last six months. In need? Contact Catholic Charities by visiting ccdom.org 2020-10-101h 02

Am I Not HereAre You Pro-Life? #19After a week off, Tara and Jerry sit down again with Jennifer Ruggiero, Director of the Office of Human Life & Dignity to discuss Respect Life Month and the upcoming 2020 Choices Matter Critical Life Issues Conference Series. 2020-10-0351 min

Am I Not HereThe Domestic Church #18This week, Tara and Jerry celebrate Catechetical Sunday as they sit down with Carol Mascola, diocesan director of the Office of Discipleship Formation for Children to discuss how the domestic church takes center stage for our own catechesis 2020-09-2048 min

Am I Not HereHispanic Heritage #17This week, Tara and Jerry sit down with Allan Caballero, diocesan director of the Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry to discuss the gift of the Hispanic Community to our local Church and upcoming celebration of National Hispanic Heritage Month and the Hispanic Heritage Mass at the Cathedral of Saint Francis of Assisi. National Hispanic Heritage Month is a period from 15 September to 15 October in the United States for recognizing the contributions and influence of Hispanic Americans to the history, culture, and achievements of the United States.2020-09-1348 min

Am I Not HereOur Lady's Blue Army #16This week, Tara and Jerry sit down with David & Dorothy Carollo of the World Apostolate of Fatima USA and of the National Blue Army Shrine of Our Lady of Fatima in Washington NJ. The discussion includes reaction to the recent diocesan ordinations celebrated on the shrine grounds, the journey of David and Dorothy from Chicago to the Blue Army, and the reaction to the release of the Fatima Movie. More information can be found at www.bluearmy.com 2020-09-061h 10

Am I Not HereCan You Civilize It? #15This week, Tara and Jerry discuss the United States Conference of Catholic Bishop's "Civilize Campaign" and challenge each of us to take the pledge to civility in our church and in our discussions on faithful citizenship. Civilize It is about making room in your heart for those with whom you disagree. We are called to recognize that each one of us is a beloved child of God and to respond in love to that reality. Civilize It is a non-partisan call to focus on the dignity of all people, even when we disagree, and to put faith in a...2020-08-3044 min

Am I Not HereFamily Time #14This week, Tara and Jerry sit down with Cristina D'Averso-Collins, diocesan director of the Office of Family Life to talk all things family life! 2020-08-231h 01

Am I Not HereThe Best Good for You!This week Tara and Jerry sit down with the Ordinandi as the prepare for their ordination to the priesthood on Saturday, August 22, 2020 at the National Blue Army Shrine in Asbury NJ Guests include: Deacon David Keyes, Deacon Thomas Lanza, , & Deacon Gilbert Starcher and a special surprise from Deacon Gustavo Rodriguez-Perez 2020-08-1654 min

Am I Not HereBack to School #12This week, Tara and Jerry sit down with Ellen Ayoub to discuss the diocesan schools plans of reopening for in person and remote learning for the new academic year during an ever changing period of time. Ellen Ayoub is the secretary for education in the Office of Schools for the Diocese of Metuchen. 2020-08-0953 min

Am I Not HereEqual Sacrifice Not Equal Giving #11This week, Tara and Jerry sit down with Thomas J. Smith, diocesan director of the Office of Stewardship and Development to discuss the spirituality of giving and its mission for the Church during a global pandemic. 2020-08-021h 06

Am I Not HereJesus, I Trust in YOU!This week, Tara and Jerry sit down with the newlyweds Dan and Lizaine Chedid of St. Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish who open about the road to marriage during a global pandemic. It is definitely more than what you think. 2020-07-261h 03

KJRN Featured Live GamesNJ Last Dance Tournament Sweet 16 South Region: St. Joe's Metuchen vs. DeptfordWe are live in Lakewood, New Jersey at FirstEnergy Park for this Round of 32 matchup(Sweet 16 in the South Region) between St. Joe's of Metuchen and Deptford. Donovan Zsak(St. Joe's) and Sean Broadhurst(Deptford) are your starting pitchers.2020-07-222h 03

Am I Not HereDiaconate Ordinandi #9This week, Tara and Jerry sit down with the Diaconate Ordinandi, Timothy Eck and Jay Alquiros as they share their vocational journey and share their hopes for their mission as they prepare for their ordination to the transitional diaconate. Timothy Eck, Jay Alquiros will be ordained to the transitional diaconate along with Greg Zannetti and Ariel Bautista Jr. on July 25, 2020 by Bishop James F. Checchio at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi, Metuchen. 2020-07-1853 min

Am I Not HereConnecting to the Community #8This week, Tara and Jerry upack the importance of language, intention, and connection to a community as keys to the New Evangelization. 2020-07-1253 min

Am I Not HereCOVID Communicators #7This week, Tara and Jerry sit down with Katie Cerni a local parish communicator to discuss the joys, challenges, and renewal that has taken place over the past few months as parish communicators and bulletin editors enter into their new normal of connecting their communities together. Katie Cerni is Bulletin Editor and Webmaster for St. Peter the Apostle University and Community Parish in New Brunswick NJ 2020-07-0554 min

Am I Not HereThe Gospel according to DACAThis week Tara and Jerry sit down with Allan Caballero, diocesan director of the Office of Hispanic Evangelization and Pastoral Ministry and Sr. Graciela Colon, SCC, Immigration Program Supervisor at Catholic Charities to discuss the impacts that the recent DACA decision has on our local communities and how we are challenged to seek the Gospel message in a new way once again. 2020-06-2855 min

Am I Not HereWe are Walking with Jennifer Ruggiero (#5)Walking with Mom's in Need? Or walking with Dads in need? Anyway we are walking. See how communicators open up the USCCB's new initiative "Walking with Moms in Need" and address the work needed at our local level for both mother and father. This week, Tara and Jerry are joined with Jennifer Ruggiero the Secretary of the Secretariat for Family and Pastoral Life and Director of the Office of Human Life & Dignity to help unpack all the good work being done and where we need more action. 2020-06-2155 min

Am I Not HereWelcome Home #4This week, as we celebrate the Solemnity of Corpus Christi, Jerry and Tara break down the policies for the restoration of public masses with a congregation within the Diocese of Metuchen and talk how going back to church is an opportunity to welcome the stranger,2020-06-1430 min

Am I Not HereA Call to Renewal #3Tara and Jerry talk about a true call of Pentecost in our ever changing world. They highlight the USCCB's Pastoral Letter against racism"Open Wide Our Hearts" and challenge all to join in their prayerful campaign"The Call to Enduring Love." Together the Diocese of Metuchen begins to pray to the Most Sacred Heart of Jesus during the month of June for racial harmony and healing of our nation. 2020-06-0728 min

Am I Not HereParking Lot Pews and Break Ministry #2 Jerry and Tara talk about their experiences at a Parking Lot Mass and the Communion "drive-thru" at the Cathedral of St. Francis of Assisi as communities begin to return to worship and distribute the eucharist to the people of God. They also sit down with their friends from Break Ministry who share how the "Walking Pilgrimage" in the Year of Awakening led to a powerful response of their ministry to the people of God during quarantine. 2020-05-3138 min

Am I Not HereAm I Not Here: Br. Ronald Talbot, SC and Sr. Anna Nguyen, SCC #1Am I Not Here? Jerry Wutkowski and Tara Smith (The Communicators) chat about life of the local Catholic Church of Metuchen amid the coronavirus pandemic. They also speak with Br. Ronald Talbot, SC a Brother of the Sacred Heart and Sr. Anna Nguyen, SCC a Sister of Christian Charity and the Delegate for Religious as they share with us the amazing work of their communities and the impact that the coronavirus has had on their charism and mission 2020-05-2346 min

The Sport ProfileEddie Kalegi: Metuchen High School PawdcastHope everyone is well and staying safe during this pandemic! I am super excited to share my full interview with MHS Pawdcast host, Eddie Kalegi. He is a junior at Metuchen High School — my alma mater — and got the opportunity to do play-by-play for the Little League World Series KidCast last August on ESPN2. Click the link to read the story on The Sport Profile. Follow Eddie and the MHS Pawdcast on Twitter! Follow Dylan on Twitter: @Dylan_Manfre11 2020-03-2633 min

Jersey Basketball AssociationSPF-PAL White vs. Metuchen: Boys 5 EastThe third and final game of our tripleheader from Metuchen is SPF-PAL White against Metuchen in the Boys 5 East Division, live from Edgar Middle School in Metuchen, New Jersey on the King James Radio Network.2020-01-191h 18

Jersey Basketball AssociationSPF-PAL White vs. Metuchen: Girls 5 EastTwo teams trying to get closer to the .500 mark square off in Metuchen, New Jersey, as SPF-PAL White(4-6) goes head-to-head with Metuchen(3-4) in the second of a Sunday tripleheader with the JBA on the King James Radio Network at www.jamesisking.com.2020-01-191h 18

Jersey Basketball AssociationHunterdon-HBA vs. Metuchen: Girls 7 WhiteHuunterdon-HBA(8-0) looks to keep their undefeated season going, when they take on Metuchen in the Girls 7 White Division. We are live from Edgar Middle School in Metuchen, New Jersey on the King James Radio Network at www.jamesisking.com.2020-01-191h 00

Jersey Basketball AssociationMontgomery vs. Metuchen: Boys 7 GoldIn the second game of our Friday night doubleheader, it is Montgomery(3-0) and Metuchen(1-2) in an early season Boys 7 Gold contest.2019-12-211h 19

Jersey Basketball AssociationRoselle vs. Metuchen: Boys 5 EastWe bring you to Edgar Middle School in Metuchen, New Jersey with the Jersey Basketball Association on the King James Radio Network. In our first matchup of the evening, it's Roselle(1-0) taking on Metuchen(2-0) in the Boys 5 East Division.2019-12-211h 09

North Brunswick Raiders Baseball/SoftballNorth Brunswick Baseball @ St. Joe's(Metuchen)We are in Metuchen, New Jersey for some Spring Break baseball on the King James Radio Network, as North Brunswick(3-8) meets St. Joe's of Metuchen(7-4).Christian Petrillo(1-2) is pitching for North Brunswick, while Adam Boucher(1-2) takes the mound for St. Joe's.2019-04-232h 18

Jersey Basketball AssociationColonia vs. Metuchen: Girls 5 EastGame #2 of our regular season debut in Metuchen tips off with Colonia(6-4) going against Metuchen(4-6), as we broadcast live from Edgar Middle School on the King James Radio Network at www.jamesisking.com.2019-02-021h 23

Jersey Basketball AssociationClark vs. Metuchen: Girls 6 WhiteFor the first time in the regular season with the JBA, we are in Metuchen, New Jersey at Edgar Middle School for a Friday night doubleheader, as Clark(8-2) faces Metuchen(0-11) in a Girls 6 White contest.2019-02-021h 15

KJRN Featured Live Games2016 GMC Boys Basketball Tournament Semifinals: #1 St. Joe's of Metuchen vs. #5 WoodbridgeSt. Joe's of Metuchen(18-5) is the top seed in this year's Greater Middlesex Conference Tournament. With a win, the Falcons will make their ninth straight trip to the GMC Finals. Woodbridge(19-4) plays the underdog as the #5 seed, and will try to pull the upset of the year in the GMC. We are live from South Brunswick, New Jersey on the King James Radio Network at www.jamesisking.com.2016-02-241h 33