Bishop Joseph L. Coffey honored at sold-out Catholic Charities of South Jersey dinner

Bishop Joseph L. Coffey, auxiliary bishop for the Archdiocese for the Military Services, USA, received the Saint John Neumann Award during the 22nd annual Catholic Charities of South Jersey dinner on Oct. 22. The event, held at the Resorts Hotel in Atlantic City, brought together 550 attendees to support the organization's programs and recognize service to vulnerable populations.

The dinner also presented Disciples of Mercy awards to several individuals and groups from across the diocese. Recipients included Lorna Davis of Sacred Heart Parish and School in Camden; Rich and Carol Purcell of Christ the King Parish in Haddonfield; Jamie Graiff of Our Lady of the Blessed Sacrament Parish in Newfield; Matthew Simons of Saint Elizabeth Ann Seton Parish in Absecon; and the Saint Damien Parish Nurse/Helping Hands Ministry in Ocean City.

Bishop Joseph A. Williams, executive director Maria Elena Hallion, and vicar general Father Jon Thomas attended the gathering alongside clergy, religious, and parishioners. This year's event placed a special emphasis on the work Catholic Charities performs for veterans and their families.