For Jay Donofrio, the new diocesan Director of Youth and Young Adult Ministry, there is a great opportunity to cultivate among youth and young adults a stronger relationship with God, and their faith.
“Throughout the years, I have been observing the need for Jesus in the youth’s lives,” he said. “To have God, the Holy Spirit work through me and bring about any assistance needed in the parishes within the Diocese regarding Youth and Young Adult ministry, is a blessing.”
Before starting in his new role in mid-September, Donofrio worked in the pharmaceutical industry, where he was responsible for managing complex projects and leading a group of project coordinators.
But even though his most recent job was in a secular firm, faith has been at the center of his life.
“My faith has become who I am over the years, and I strive every day to do God’s Holy Will,” he said. “I fall short at times, but I am so grateful for all that he has provided for me. The gratitude I have for what God has done in my life has been an important anchor of my faith.”
Donofrio was born and raised in the Diocese of Metuchen, growing up attending Mass at St. Augustine of Canterbury Church, Kendall Park – where he also attended the parish school through the fifth grade, and where he now serves as a lector. He also attends the Young Adult group at St. Paul Church, Princeton, and attends Mass at Queenship of Mary Parish, Plainsboro.
He shared that he grew up playing sports – baseball and basketball, to be specific – and went on to earn a degree in health studies from Monmouth University, West Long Branch. He also created music from ages 15 to 25 and has published some songs of his own – a part of his background that resonates with youth.
“Music was my passion and a great hobby of mine for a long time,” he said.
As he settles into his new position, Donofrio hopes to accomplish a number of things, including increasing the number of youth and young adults involved in ministry throughout the Diocese. He also hopes to be a resource for youth and young adult ministers by helping them to be as effective as possible.
Donofrio said he also hopes to cultivate a love for the Eucharist, Confession and Eucharistic Adoration among young Catholics, and to keep them engaged after Confirmation.
“Creating a bridge from Confirmation to young adulthood within the youth is crucially important,” he said. “Once the young people get confirmed and receive that Sacrament of Confirmation, the goal is to keep them actively engaged in the faith and continue their journey of falling in Love with Jesus.”
He is also eager to collaborate with pastors, religious, youth and young adult ministers, parish catechetical leaders, and youth and young adults throughout the Diocese of Metuchen.