Four County Catholic January 2022 by Diocese of Norwich

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

Volume 34 • Number 1 • JANUARY 2022 • SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

May the Lord work through you to bring those who walk in darkness out into the bright light and hope of the risen Christ. Bishop Michael R. Cote

In This Issue page

page

“After returning home from my first trip to Haiti

in the early 80s, I knew this little Island and its people were going to be very important in my life.”

Sister Ellen Flynn, RSM, one of five honorees, addressing supporters at the 35th anniversary celebration of Outreach to Haiti, held at Mercy High School in November.

“In choosing the recipient of the award, we look not just for people who have given their time in service to community organizations, but for those who have made it their mission to promote diversity, equity and inclusion.” David W. Glidden, Liberty Bank President and CEO, outlining the criteria that led to Sister Mary Jude Lazarus, SCMC receiving the Willard M. McRae Community Diversity Award.

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JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

“One of the ways Pope Francis has called us to make the Light of Faith present and vital to our lives is through community.” Liza Roach, Youth and Young Adult Minister, sharing one way that we can grow in faith in 2022.

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ON THE COVER

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D, administering the Sacrament of Ordination to Holy Priesthood to Deacon Lawrence J. Barile by the laying on of hands. The ordination took place at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. Story on Page 16. (photo credit Catherine Hoffman)

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To report inappropriate conduct of any kind by a Diocesan Bishop please contact ReportBishopAbuse.org or call 1-800-276-1562 To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance for victims, please call: The Diocesan Reporting Line @ 1-800-624-7407

Para reportar una conducta inapropiada de cualquier tipo por parte de un obispo diocesano, por favor contacte ReportBishopAbuse.org o llame al 1-800-276-1562 Para reportar contacto inapropiado de cualquier tipo por medio de un representante de la Diócesis de Norwich o para asistencia a víctimas, por favor llame a La Línea de Reportaje de la Diócesis de Norwich 1-800-624-7407

If the incident involves a minor (persons under the age of 18), you must also call: State of CT Department of Children and Families Care Line 1-800-842-2288 -OR –State of NY Child Protective Services 1-800-635-1522

Incidents involving abuse of vulnerable adults aged 18-59 should be reported to: Connecticut Department of Developmental Services - AID Division for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 1-844-878-8923

Incidents involving abuse of vulnerable adults aged 60 and over should be reported to: Connecticut Department of Social Services for the Elderly 1-888-385-4225

Si el incidente involucra a un menor (personas menores de 18 años), también debe llamar a Departamento de Niños y Familias de CT 1-800-842-2288 -O-Servicios de Protección de Niños del Estado de NY 1-800-635-1522.

Incidentes relacionados con el abuso de adultos vulnerables de 18-59 años de edad deben ser reportados a Departamento de Servicios al Desarrollo del Estado de Connecticut-División de Ayuda para Personas con Incapacidad Intelectual 1-844-878-8923.

Incidentes relacionados con el abuso de adultos vulnerables de 60 años de edad o más deben ser reportados a Departamento de Servicios Sociales Para Ancianos de Connecticut 1-888-385-4225.

THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

media as well as on radio and television. The countercultural command to “love Those of you who were around in the your neighbor as yourself ” that Christ 1960s may recognize the above as the taught and generation after generation opening line of a popular song and of Christians have put into action, is may easily be able to complete the lyric. beginning to be lost in the dissenting “What the world needs now is love, voices that look to divide us. sweet love. It’s the only thing that there’s We must not lose hope. The healing, just too little of ” uplifting, overarching message of Christ Like today, the 1960s was a turbulent is the ultimate course correction of what time in America’s history. The ‘world ails our nation at this tumultuous time. needs love’ sentiment is not new. It is wise to remember that we are all “If I speak in human and angelic tongues children of the same Father. He calls but do not have love, I am a resounding us to live as brothers and sisters. Our gong or a clashing cymbal.” This familiar personal interaction with others is our sentence begins one of the most popular chance to live out the love that Saint readings proclaimed at weddings. While Paul describes. My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

Pope Saint John Paul II once voiced, “Every vocation to the priestly ministry is an extraordinary gift of God’s love.” We rejoice that the Lord has graced us with this wonderful gift of a new priest who over time has responded to God’s call.

We know that vocations do not fall out of the blue. They arise out of God’s deep and abiding love for each of us, touching the hearts of those whom God has placed in our path. By way of illustration Father Barile shared the following, “through the many good examples of my parents, my siblings and I were taught the important value of helping others in their time of need. These early lessons helped me to it can be very valuable for couples Are our interactions with others Christ- realize that there is greater joy in giving embarking on a lifelong commitment like? Do we take time to hear people out, of oneself.” I pray that Father Larry together this was not the initial intent giving them the benefit of the doubt? continues to find and share this joy. of Saint Paul when he penned his first Do we “pile-on” or do we instead offer As I write this and as you read this, it is letter to the church of Corinth. He forgiveness? still the Christmas season. May you carry was writing to a group of people who, the Christmas spirit into 2022 as a yearmuch like today’s society, were struggling When an old timer was asked if he was long/life-long way of life, because “What with social division – class, gender, race, a Christian he responded, “I don’t know, the world needs now is love, sweet love. you’ll have to ask my neighbor.” How No not just for some, but for everyone.” wealth. might each of us score if our neighbors What Saint Paul wrote is as were to grade us? countercultural now as it was 2000 years ago. As he outlined in 1 Corinthians So much of society today is focused Happy New Year to you and your family. 13:4-6 –– “Love is patient, love is kind”. on instant gratification and selfHe then describes all the things that love centeredness. Living a life of loving selfis not, concluding with “[Love] does not sacrifice for the good of others must be Sincerely yours in Christ, rejoice over wrongdoing, but rejoices acknowledged and celebrated. with the truth.” On December 8th, the Feast of the If news reports and opinion pieces are a Immaculate Conception, I had the correct indicator, it appears that we have pleasure of ordaining Deacon Larry once again lost faith in the goodness of Barile to the order of the priesthood. Most Reverend Michael R. Cote our fellow Americans. The persistent What a blessing to experience once again Bishop of Norwich vitriol of hurtful interchanges can be seen God’s tenderness to the local church of playing out in newspapers and online Norwich.

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

“What the world needs now...”

THE MOST REVEREND

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

“Lo que el Mundo Necesita Ahora…” hirientes en los periódicos y los medios en línea, así como en la radio y la televisión. Aquellos de ustedes que vivieron en la El mandamiento contracultural de “amar a década de 1960 pueden reconocer el título su prójimo como a si mismo” que Cristo anterior como la línea de apertura de una enseñó y que generación tras generación de canción popular y fácilmente pueden cristianos ha puesto en práctica, comienza completar la letra. “Lo que el mundo a perderse en las voces opositoras que necesita ahora es amor, amor bondadoso. buscan dividirnos. Es lo que más escasea. No debemos perder la Esperanza. El La década de 1960 como hoy, fue una mensaje sanador, edificante y general de epoca turbulenta en la historia de Estados Cristo es la corrección final del curso de lo Unidos. El sentimiento de “el mundo que aflije a nuestra nación en este momento necesita amor” no es nuevo. tumultuoso. Es aconsejable recordar que “Si hablo en lenguas humanas y angélicas, todos somos hijos del mismo Padre. Él pero no tengo amor, soy como una campana nos llama a vivir como hermanos. Nuestra que toca o unos platillos que resuenan.” interacción personal con los demás es Esta frase familiar inicia una de las lecturas nuestra oportunidad de vivir el amor que más populares que se proclaman en las describe San Pablo. My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

bodas. Si bien puede ser muy valioso para las parejas que se embarcan juntos en un compromiso de por vida, esta no fue la intención inicial de San Pablo cuando escribió su primera carta a la Iglesia de Corinto. Él estaba escribiendo a un grupo de personas que, al igual que la sociedad actual, estaban luchando con la división social: clase, género, raza, riqueza.

Lo que San Pablo escribió es tan contracultural ahora como lo fue hace 2000 años. Como lo describe en 1 Corintios 13: 4-6- “El amor es paciente, el amor es bondadoso.” Luego describe todas las cosas que el amor no es, concluyendo con” (el amor) no se regocija por malas acciones, sino que se regocija con la verdad.” Si las noticias y los artículos de opinión son un indicador correcto, parece que una vez más hemos perdido la fe en la bondad de nuestros conciudadanos. Se puede ver la hostilidad persistente de los intercambios

¿Nuestras iteracciones con los demás son semejantes a las de Cristo? ¿Tomamos tiempo para escuchar a los demás, dándoles el beneficio de la duda? ¿Acumulamos ofensas o en cambio ofrecemos perdón? Cuando le preguntaron a un anciano si era Cristiano, respondió: “No sé, tendrá que preguntarle a mi vecino.” ¿Que puntaje tendríamos cada uno de nosotros si nuestros vecinos nos calificaran?

Gran parte de la sociedad actual se centra en la gratificación instantánea y el egocentrismo. Debe reconocerse y celebrarse vivir una vida de abnegación por el bien de los demás. El 8 de diciembre, fiesta de la Inmaculada Concepción, tuve el placer de ordenar al Diácono Larry Barile a la orden del sacerdocio. Que bendición experimentar una vez más la ternura de Dios hacia la iglesia local de Norwich.

El Papa San Juan Pablo II dijo una vez: “Toda vocación al ministerio sacerdotal es un don extraordinario del amor de Dios.” Nos regocijamos de que el Señor nos haya agraciado con este maravilloso regalo de un nuevo sacerdote que con el tiempo ha respondido al llamado de Dios. Sabemos que las vocaciones no aparecen de la nada. Surgen del amor profundo y permanente de Dios por cada uno de nosotros, tocando los corazones de aquellos a quienes Dios ha puesto en nuestro camino. A modo de ilustración, Padre Barile compartió lo siguiente: “a través de los muchos buenos ejemplos de mis padres, a mis hermanos y a mi se nos enseñó el importante valor de ayudar a los demás en su momento de necesidad. Estas primeras lecciones me ayudaron a darme cuenta de que hay un mayor gozo en entregarse a uno mismo.” Oro para que Padre Larry continúe encontrando y compartiendo esta alegría. Mientras escribo esto y usted lo lee, aún es temporada navideña. Que usted pueda llevar el espíritu navideño al 2022 como una forma de vida de un año/ toda la vida, porque “lo que el mundo necesita ahora es amor, amor bondadoso. No solo para algunos, sino para todos.”

Feliz año nuevo para usted y su familia, Sincerely yours in Christ,

Vocations Corner 4th Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Check out the video recording of the Ordination Mass on the Diocesan website if you haven’t watched it already. It was beautiful. I was also blessed to concelebrate Father Larry’s first Mass of Thanksgiving at St. Mary’s Church in Coventry the following evening with several priests of our diocese. That was splendid too. Praise God! I couldn’t be happier for Fr. Larry Barile and the people he is now called to serve. Dharen Brochero

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Ruben Garcia Sanchez

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

In other news, our seminarians successfully completed another fall semester of seminary studies. As they gear up to return to the seminary for the start of the spring semester, I would like to highlight one of our seminarians, Mark Johnson, who received admission to Candidacy to Holy Orders with his classmates in November of 2021. In early December of 2020, I asked Mark to reflect on his experience of receiving admission to Candidacy for all of you. Here is what he had to say: On November 19th, I received admission to Candidacy for Holy Orders. The significance of candidacy can be described by this nice image: if priesthood is like marriage to the Church, candidacy is the engagement whereby the candidate formally and publicly expresses to the Church his resolve to finish his formation and become a priest (this is done, interestingly enough, by actually saying “I do” during the ritual). The peak of the ceremony is the words the bishop speaks to the new candidates, saying, “May God who has begun this good work in you bring it to fulfillment.” I would like to meditate on the significance of this phrase. “May God who has begun this good work in you…” The day after I had received candidacy, I was asked to share my vocation story as the beginning of a Confirmation retreat at Blessed Sacrament Parish. This opportunity brought to the forefront God’s actions throughout my life, particularly in drawing me from the world of chemistry to the world of future ministry. As I mentioned to the retreatants, it is

difficult to see God’s hand in the present moment, but looking back allows one to more easily see the gentle nudges of the Holy Spirit. These nudges truly were more like gentle taps than awe-inspiring epiphanies; however, as I mentioned to the retreatants, God uses whatever you are willing to give Him in prayer no matter how small. In my recent work as a sports chaplain for the women’s rugby team at Mount St. Mary’s University, some players asked questions about why I chose to give up a potential career in chemistry for the priesthood. I was not able to explain it in a way that made sense to them. They unknowingly picked up on a very important instinct: without God, a vocation does not make sense. God has to be the one who initiates this journey by the gentle acceptance of His grace. On the part of each person, one has to pray to be open to those divine promptings that draw one towards one’s vocation on earth and sanctity in heaven. “…bring it to fulfillment.” By these words, it is important to understand that this journey towards sanctity is not yet finished. Although I may have taken another step towards the priesthood, I must still recognize that it is one step of many. I have been deemed worthy enough to express my resolve to become a priest, but there is still much that needs to be done before I am ready to accept priestly ministry: years of study, years of prayer, years of growing in virtue, years of ministerial practice, and especially years of patience. However, it is ultimately not my own work or my own resolve that will make my time at the seminary worth it, it is God’s work. Just as the Lord has worked in several ways throughout my life in bringing me to this point, He will continue to work (and He certainly has been working throughout this semester) in His gentle and loving way to bring this journey to completion if He so wills.

Alexander Pandolfe

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Julian Cuervo

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Eric Hosmer

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Please pray for God’s will to be done in the lives of all of our seminarians and all those God is calling to start this journey to priesthood for our diocese.

- Father Jonathan Ficara, Director of Vocations

Mark Johnson

1st Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

MONTHLY

Holy Hour

for Vocations

January 20, 6:00 p.m. – Sacred Heart, Groton Febraury 17, 6:00 p.m. – St. Colman, Middlefield

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour

God-Calls.com

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Deacon Jacob Ramos

How great is it that we have a new priest? Father Larry Barile, ordained to the priesthood by Bishop Cote on December 8 at the Cathedral of St. Patrick on the Solemnity of the Immaculate Conception. It’s wonderful.

ACA Reaches Goal for First Time Since 2007

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

side, taking each step with us. When faced with the many challenges of the past two years, we take comfort in many passages of the Bible. One of my favorites is Proverbs 3:5-6: “Trust in the Lord with all your heart and on your own intelligence do not rely. In all your ways, be mindful of Him, and Of course, the most important and He will make straight your paths.” lasting resolution we can make is to forge a closer relationship with While we do not know what 2022 God, to continue to work toward has in store, we do know that becoming a better person and together, each of us, with the help living the word of Jesus each day. of God, will face the challenges Part of our journey is predicated with a renewed sense of hope on having faith that while we and confidence. We will yet again persevere, God is right by our remind ourselves to “Cast all your JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

We begin 2022 thankful for our many blessings, taking account of all that God has given us. Each new year brings new resolutions and goals. Whether it be improved fitness, reaching out to loved ones, or becoming financially secure, we all have our list.

Norwich Diocesan Cemeteries SAINT MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY 815 Boswell Ave., Norwich - 860-887-1019

The Annual Catholic Appeal, “One Faith, One Family,” gives us an opportunity to do the work of Jesus daily by enabling our diocesan ministries to provide spiritual, physical and educational support to many in our community. Whether it be receiving meals from St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich, and St. Vincent de Paul, Middletown or groceries and diapers from Catholic Charities, with locations throughout the diocese; comfort from our Ministry to the Sick; spiritual support from the outreach programs of our Office of Faith Events or the educational opportunities provided to our seminarians and youth, the reach

SACRED HEART CEMETERY Harland Road, Taftville - 860-887-1019 SAINT PATRICK CEMETERY Depot Road, Uncasville - 860-887-1019

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The Church, through its Funeral Rites:

• Celebrates the life and faith of the deceased • Expresses the Church’s belief in the Communion of Saints • Recognizes the spiritual bond that exists between the living and the dead • Brings hope and consolation to the bereaved • Reminds faithful to turn to God in time of need and crisis • Seeks God’s mercy and love • Nourishes the faith of the bereaved • Acknowledges that the deceased benefit from our prayers

815 Boswell Ave, Norwich, CT 06360 860-887-1019

As always, we end our Annual Catholic Appeal year with great gratitude for our many generous donors. We know many have faced challenges this past year and nevertheless dug deep into their pockets to continue to make their donations to the ACA. We cannot express how much your kindness means to our ministries and the people they serve. We are very happy to report that the 2021 ACA reached its goal for the first time since 2007. This is truly a testament to the many parishioners who have chosen to share some of their hard-earned money to enrich the lives of others. As of Dec. 6, just over $3 million in gifts and pledges have been made to the ACA, with 23 of our parishes at or above goal and 36 at 90% or more of goal. With God’s help we truly came together as “One Faith, One Family.”

SAINT MARY CEMETERY Community Mausoleum Available 600 Jefferson Ave., New London - 860-887-1019

Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation 6

worries upon him because he of our ACA supported ministries cares for you.” 1 Peter 5:7. is great.

“Not all of us can do great things But we can do small things with great love.” MOTHER TERESA

While we look ahead to our 2022 Annual Catholic Appeal, which we will launch in March, we hope you will see fit to renew your generous commitment to the ACA. In the meantime, if you have not completed your pledge payments, you may contact Heather Harris at hharris@norwichdiocese.net or (860) 886-1928 to do so. Thank you and may God continue to keep you safe and bless you in 2022.

Outreach to Haiti Celebrates 35 Years of Walking with Our Haitian Brothers and Sisters By Susan Wallace

any of our friends and supporters helped us honor the work of several of God’s servants in our diocesan ministry. This anniversary milestone was held at Mercy High School in November.

2021 Honorees (left to right) Mr. Daniel E. O’Sullivan, Ms. Julie Fitts Ritter, Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Reverend Gerald S. Kirby, Sister Ellen Flynn, RSM

Under Bishop Cote’s leadership the Diocese of Norwich twins with the Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince. He is a dedicated supporter and advocate of our work, which has allowed us to grow our programs and complete our new building to replace the two that were destroyed in the 2010 earthquake.

ister to the people of Haiti. “After returning home from my first trip to Haiti in the early 80s, I knew this little Island and its people were going to be very important in my life.” When her three years were almost over Sister Ann Weller invited her back to Haiti. She said it was the best decision she ever made. “We started a school program, a small clinic, and programs for women. Twelve years later on sabbatical, I realized Haiti was still calling me; I spent my last years in Fon de Blan [where] we were able to start a much-needed program for those living with HIV. Haiti will always be a part of me.” Sister Ellen continues to serve the people of Haiti as a member of our Board of Directors.

Sister Ellen Flynn followed the inner voice that called her to min-

Reverend Gerald S. Kirby, who spent many years serving in Haiti,

We have been blessed by the wisdom, foresight, and leadership of Bishop Cote who had the vision to merge the two wonderful ministries working in Port-au-Prince into one.

shared the following: “I discovered years ago that Haiti is completely indescribable. No words can capture the depth of its poverty or the wealth of its beauty and richness of the people. Most Haitians lack life’s necessities yet possess eternal values.” Father Kirby spent many years serving in Haiti, where he initiated many programs including our Parish Twinning Program. He is a constant and ardent supporter. Daniel E. O’Sullivan, immediate past Director of Outreach, shared his many gifts and talents to move our ministry forward and upward. He was instrumental in helping to raise funds for our new building, which is now up and operational. He continues to serve on the building committee and is dedicated to seeing Phase II, outfitting the building, completed. He remains

The Padre Pio Foundation of America, under the leadership of Julie Fitts Ritter, is a special friend and supporter. The Foundation continues Saint Padre Pio’s legacy of love and caring for those less fortunate and assists organizations like Outreach to Haiti as they serve the very people Padre Pio loved and cared for so deeply. Julie shared, “What we do is for God’s glory, His Church and in honor of Padre Pio.” We are thankful to Alissa DeJonge, President of Mercy High School, for hosting our event. Many people with varied and different gifts have come together to support our work as evidenced by those who were honored and those who walk with us to serve our brothers and sisters, especially in Haiti. We are inspired by their commitment. We hope you will join us and support our work.

To read more about the event or discover how you can be a part of this ministry, visit OutreachToHaiti.org.

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Special honorees were the Most Reverend Bishop Michael R. Cote, D.D., Sister Ellen Flynn, RSM, Reverend Gerald S. Kirby, Daniel E. O’Sullivan and the Inaugural Works of Mercy Award was presented to the Director of The Padre Pio Foundation of America, Julie Fitts Ritter.

actively involved and with board member Tom Campbell, continues their bicycle “Ride to Rebuild” each fall. Dan related, “Seeing [the Haitian people] carry on in the face of adversity and seeing the strength of their faith is very uplifting. It has permanently affected my outlook on life.”

In Memoriam Forever Grateful for Your Service Reverend Monsignor Michael Thomas Donohue

May 1, 1947 ~ December 12, 2021 On December 12, 2021, Monsignor Donahue was called from us to eternal rest with the Lord. He was ordained June 29, 1975, in Rome by Saint Pope Paul VI. His funeral Mass was celebrated December 17 at Saint Matthias Church in East Lyme.

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Monsignor Donohue was the second of five children born to the late John J. Donohue and Catherine Keegan Donohue. He was raised in Pawcatuck, attended St. Michael School, graduating from Stonington High in 1965.

He began his religious vocation at St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield, CT continued it at Our Lady of the Angels in Albany, NY, and was chosen to complete his studies at the Pontifical North American College in Rome, Italy where he was ordained in 1975 by Pope Paul VI, who, in 2018, was canonized into sainthood by Pope Francis. Following his ordination and returning to the United States, he trained as an officer and a chaplain in the U.S. Navy in Newport, RI and he began his ministry in the Diocese of Norwich. His 45-year career throughout the diocese included Sacred Heart parish (Vernon), St. John (Uncasville), St. Joseph (Willimantic), Sacred Heart (Norwichtown) and in 1993 he became pastor of Saint Matthias Parish in East Lyme, where he oversaw the design and construction of a new church that was first planned in 1988 to accommodate a growing congregation and ensure the continuation of the Catholic community in the Flanders village of East Lyme.

In the spring of 1996, the then Father Donohue initiated a program of stewardship to take the steps necessary to build a new church. His lifelong interest in art and architecture made it possible for him to envision what became an octagonal Romanesque red brick building designed around the stained-glass windows installed in the original church in 1939, blending the legacy of the past with an eye toward the future. Monsignor Donahue’s classmate, the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, celebrated the funeral Mass on Friday, December 17. Archbishop Leonard Blair, also a classmate, concelebrated the Mass. The homilist, Reverend Joseph Bell, of Spokane, Washington shared many stories illustrating the humor and generosity of his close friend, Monsignor Donahue. Bishop Cote read remarks from fellow classmates who could not be in attendance. Cardinal Burke had this to say: “The death of Monsignor Donahue is certainly a great loss for the class of 1975 of the Pontifical North American College . . . I remember how he faithfully organized class reunions and communicated important news about classmates.” Bishop Cote spoke to a fellow classmate from Louisiana, who put it very well saying that Monsignor Donahue “was the glue of our class.” Monsignor Donahue is survived by his brother, Joseph S. Donohue (Debbie Burlingame), of Pawcatuck, and Christopher Donohue, of Westerly. He is also survived by his five nephews, John, Patrick (Erin), Sean (Kelly), Timothy (Colleen), and Benjamin (Lauren), and his three nieces, Tricia Detterman (David), Anne Wang (Roger), and Emily Donohue (Tom Studt).

Sunday, February 6 at 10:30 a.m. Cathedral of Saint Patrick

. Norwich

Sister Mary Jude Lazarus, SCMC Receives Willard M. McRae Community Diversity Award By Liberty Bank

t its Corporate Headquarters, on December 6th, Liberty Bank presented Sister Mary Jude Lazarus of Willimantic with the Bank’s 2021 Willard M. McRae Community Diversity Award.

“In choosing the recipient of the award, we look not just for people who have given their time in service to community organizations, but for those who have made it their mission to promote diversity, equity and inclusion,” said David W. Glidden, President and CEO of Liberty Bank. “Sister Mary Jude has devoted her life to promoting and protecting human rights, seeking social justice and equal opportunities for all.” Introduced in 2001 as the Liberty Bank Community Diversity Award, this award was renamed in 2009 in honor of Willard M. McRae, a past chairman and board member of Liberty Bank. It is designed to recognize an individual who has been a leader in the communities served by Liberty Bank in connecting people who are different—whether those differences are of religion, race, ethnicity, economic status, age, or any other aspect of diversity. As this year’s award recipient, the Liberty Bank team is making a $5,000 charitable donation to a nonprofit organization of her choice. She selected Holy Family Home and Shelter in Willimantic. As another way of giving back and

First Row: Catina Caban Owen, Liberty Bank Foundation; Marie Hakmiller, Holy Family Home & Shelter; Sister Mary Jude Lazarus, Sisters of Charity; Sheila Hauschild, Liberty Bank Willimantic Branch Operations Supervisor; Angela Smart, Liberty Bank Willimantic Branch Manager; Susan Johnson, CT State Representative; David Glidden, Liberty Bank President and CEO. Back Row: Father Larry LaPointe; Mark Gingras, Liberty Bank Board Chairman; and Father. Robert Washabaugh

recognizing Sister Mary Jude, a group of Liberty Bank teammates volunteered at Holy Family Home and Shelter on Friday, December 10 and donated items to the Shelter for its residents. Sister Mary Jude was nominated by Catina Caban Owen, Liberty Bank Foundation director, who said, “She shows up in life every

~ EB ~

single day with the conviction that kindness, mercy and welcoming a stranger is the strength of our nation and our mission as human beings.”

but it gives us the opportunity to publicly recognize someone like her who shares our same values and has done so much in the communities where we operate.”

Glidden reiterated those sentiments in his own remarks, saying, “Honoring Sister Mary Jude today not only puts an exclamation point on all that we’re doing at Liberty

Sister Mary Judeis the twenty-first recipient of Liberty Bank’s Willard M. McRae Community Diversity Award.

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Sister Mary Jude, who is the Director of the Office for Hispanic Ministry for the Diocese of Norwich, received the award at a presentation attended by Liberty Bank teammates, Board members and her friends and family.

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

“Viva la Virgen de Guadalupe”

On Sunday, December 12, 2021, faithful from across our Diocese gathered at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick to celebrate The Annual Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Very Reverend Laurence LaPointe celebrated the Mass. Reverend Luis Henry Agudelo delivered a stirring Homily bookended by the words “Viva la Virgen de Guadalupe!” Upbeat mariachi music and a beautiful rendition of “Ave Maria” were among the many musical highlights. View the video of the celebration at NorwichDiocese.org/Masses.

Experience The Creamery Brook Difference

CLERGY APPOINTMENTS The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy and diocesan appointments in the Diocese of Norwich.

Call 860-779-8700 today for more information or to schedule a personal tour to experience the Creamery Brook Difference for yourself.

Reverend Lawrence J. Barile, newly ordained, to Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament Parish-Rockville and Tolland. Effective: December 17, 2021.

Peace of mind. At Creamery Brook, we know there’s nothing else like it. With over 20 years under our belts, our residents know they can sit back and relax – we’re here for them. From hanging their favorite pictures on the wall to weekly housekeeping, we take care of it all. When they want to socialize, we’ll give them interesting options while keeping them safe. When they sleep at night they can rest easy with 24/7 security. Whether independent or assisted living, we have the knowledgeable staff and record of integrity that puts their minds, and their family’s minds, at ease each and every day.

36 Vina Lane, Brooklyn, CT www.piercecare.org

Reverend George Busto, from Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament Parish- Rockville and Tolland, to Parochial Vicar, Our Lady Queen of Peace Parish-Coventry and Storrs. Effective: January 10, 2022.

Reverend Jeffrey Ellis, from Full-time Studies in Canon Law, to Defender of the Bond for the Diocesan Tribunal and Parochial Vicar, Saint Michael Parish-Pawcatuck, North Stonington, Stonington. Effective: January 10, 2022.

Reverend Peter Langevin, Chancellor

Catholic Charities Achieves Re-accreditation

By Sally Velcofsky

meet best practice standards. Achieving re-accreditation was not easy; it took the agency over a year to complete this challenging process. During that time, COA reviewed all aspects of our agency.

industry standards and best practices; containing costs, and practicing quality performance improvement.

Catholic Charities offers Case Management/Emergency A letter received from Jody Basic Needs to New London, Levinson-Johnson, president So why get reaccredited? Windham, Middlesex, and and CEO of the Council Tolland counties in Connecticut. Accreditation demonstrates on Accreditation stated, Catholic Charities has been “Congratulations! On behalf of Catholic Charities’ commitment providing services to individuals the Council on Accreditation to quality. Accreditation is and families since 1921. (COA), I am delighted to inform regarded as one of the key you that Catholic Charities, benchmarks for measuring Diocese of Norwich, Inc. has been the quality of an organization. reaccredited. Reaccreditation Preparing for re-accreditation is a tremendous achievement allowed Catholic Charities to that demonstrates that your review and identify its strengths organization is recognized as and areas for improvement a provider that continues to across all aspects of our business successfully implement high- and more importantly within performance standards and, as our client-facing program. such, is delivering the highest Accreditation creates distinction quality services to all of its among competition. Catholic stakeholders.” Charities’ re-accreditation will

To find out more about Catholic Charities, visit ccfsn.org.

Catholic Charities, Providing Help & Creating Hope for 100 Years!

The Catholic Charities staff was thanked for their hard work, dedication, and efforts over the last year. This achievement demonstrates the staff ’s commitment to provide the highest quality of care to those we serve.

set the agency apart from other social service providers when competing for grant funding. It demonstrates the agency’s commitment and dedication to improving outcomes and safety for those they serve.

The most important reason COA accreditation means that for Catholic Charities to retain Catholic Charities’ programs, accreditation is that accreditation services, administration, drives continuous improvement. demonstrates and management have been Accreditation rigorously evaluated and the agency’s commitment to remaining compliant with

Visit ccfsn.org to see how you can help a neighbor in need

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

he team at Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich has achieved national accreditation through the New York-based Council on Accreditation (COA).

CATHOLIC CHARITIES CELEBRATES 100 YEARS Providing Help and Creating Hope to Families of All Faiths in Eastern Connecticut

Our History Continues ... By Jacqueline Keller

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

2010

Catholic Charities established a diocesan connection with Catholic Legal Immigration Network, Inc., an entity established by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops. New office space was dedicated June 3 in New London. Bishop Cote blessed the new office. He gave commemorative plaques of appreciation to Mrs. Kay McGuire and volunteers who served the needs of people coming to Catholic Charities in the early years.

2011

The Annual Employees Appreciation Day was held at Immaculata Retreat Center in Willimantic. Bishop Cote celebrated the noon Mass, September 2. The 2011 Catholic Charities Campaign received $144,764 in gifts from 1,849 donors.

2013

James Maffuid, LMFT, was named Executive Director. Catholic Charities website was initiated with Development Coordinator Anna DeBiasi coordinating the site. The first Flames of Charity Gala was held at the Mystic Marriott in Groton to increase funding. It began with a silent auction, followed by dinner. Kevin Hogan, WFSB-TV New London Bureau Chief and parishioner of Christ the King Church, Old Lyme, was master of ceremonies. The first recognitions were awarded for service to Catholic Charities. The event raised $20,000.

2014

Middletown Christmas Open House took place December 3.

2015

The emergency food, clothing, shelter, heat, rent and utility assistance programs served 3,567 adults and children. Case management services provided help to 128 households. Some 935 individuals received 8,100 units of direct service from the Behavioral Health Program and 456 families were assisted with services from the Parenting Education and Pregnancy Services programs. The Adoption Program placed two babies in pre-adoptive homes, completed six adoption searches, serving 127 persons through pre-and post-adoption communication/adoption inquiries. The Immigration Assistance Program provided consultation and legal services for 50 foreign-born immigrants or refugees wishing to become permanent citizens of the U.S. James Maffuid resigned as Executive Director. Raymond P. Lamy served as Interim Executive Director.

2016

Edward J. Tessman, MS, was appointed Second annual Flames of Charity Gala was Executive Director January 16. held at the Mystic Marriott in Groton, with The 95th Annual Gala was held at the Mystic Marek Kukulka resigned as Executive Kevin Hogan again master of ceremonies. Marriott in Groton April 9. The event raised $22,000. Director.

2012

“Flames of Charity Gala” Master of Ceremonies, Kevin Hogan Anna DiBiasi, Development Coordinator and Faith Chatterton, Emergency Basic Needs

James Maffuid, Catholic Charities Executive Director, 2013-2015, and the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, gratefully accept a very generous contribution from the proceeds of the annual layette fundraiser. Anne King, Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women presents the check along with Eva O’Connell, Saint Andrews Guild, Colchester.

Bishop Cote acknowledges Jaquelyn Keller’s establishment of the Margaret L. Keller endowment.

The Margaret L. Keller Catholic Charities Endowment Fund, maintained by the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Norwich, was established to provide financial aid to single mothers to attend educational institutions and gain skills that will ensure their ability to break the cycle of dependence. Mr. Tessman began an extensive financial evaluation of the services offered by Catholic Charities in relationship with social services offered by similar agencies. Since 2007, when the Behavioral Health Program began, other behavioral health programs that focus strictly on mental health, some with hospital affiliations, had come into existence in a highly regulated environment. An intensive annual analysis was prepared for examination by the Board.

2017

A Walmart grant of $40,000 provided for

Ken Capano, Board Member Emeritus

the purchase of a van to collect food and other necessary items for distribution to people in need. Refrigerators and freezers were purchased for each of the four offices.

of voluntary service, be awarded Emeritus status. The 2019 Gala was held at the Mystic Yachting Center April 13.

Catholic Charities sponsored a fundraiser by ticket sales for a baseball game at Norwich’s The Council on Accreditation (COA) Dodd Stadium between the Connecticut announced it had Accredited Catholic Tigers (Detroit Tigers) and the Lowell Charities Diocese of Norwich, Inc., Spinners (Boston Red Sox). after a detailed review and analysis of its The Annual Financial Report was presented organization’s administrative operations at the December Board meeting. The – including financial practices – and its Board decided that Catholic Charities did service delivery practices. not have the financial means to continue the Behavioral Health program and it was decided to close the program over the next months while helping clients to transition to Bishop Cote recommended an Emeritus other behavioral health programs. status for Board Members who had served with distinction and excellence over the years. The Board agreed and recommended that Kenneth Capano, who recently resigned from the Board after several years

2018

2019

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Ed Tessman, Catholic Charities, Executive Director, 2016-2020.

Marriage Enrichment Celebrates the Joy of Love By Mary-Jo McLaughlin

F JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

or Valentine’s Day this year, give your spouse the gift of your time and re-energize your marriage by attending a virtual marriage enrichment entitled The Joy of Love from 10 a.m. to 2 p.m. on Saturday, Feb. 12. This enrichment will coincide with National Marriage Week, celebrated Feb. 7-14, and its theme “Marriage: Called to the

Joy of Love.” Celebrate the joy of your love by focusing on the most important person in your life – your spouse. The enrichment is based on Chapter 4 of Pope Francis’ Amoris Laetitia: The Joy of Love and will feature four talks by four couples about Daily Love, Conjugal Love, Passionate Love and Transformation of Love. It will deepen your faith with

Trust in the mercy of God’s love. If you are carrying the grief and sorrow of past abortions, call Project Rachel a post-abortion healing ministry. All calls are confidential.

860-861-4439

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practical insights from Pope Francis’ wisdom on marriage and family life. This enrichment is for married couples of all ages and years married. It takes place online and requires participants to have an internet connection. There is a $15 fee that covers workbooks for each couple. Registration and payment are due by Feb. 1. To register, send your names,

address, telephone number, e-mail address and check made payable to Annual Catholic Appeal to Mary-Jo McLaughlin, Catholic Family Services, 199 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360, or call her at 860-848-2237, Ext. 312 or email her at mmclaughlin@ norwichdiocese.net.

PLEASE HELP

“We love our neighbor as being made in the image of God and as an object of His love.” - Saint Vincent de Paul

Donations are welcomed and especially needed during the current health crisis. Visit the websites below to see how you can help.

St. Vincent de Paul Middletown 860-344-0097 • svdmiddletown.org St.Vincent de Paul Place Norwich 860-889-7374 • svdpp.org

393 South Main Street, Colchester 860-537-0079

MercifulSaviorGifts.com 392 South Main Street Colchester Caring for the community for nearly 150 years 860-537-0079 MercifulSaviourGifts.com 392 South Main Street Colchester 860-537-0079 112 Lafaytte Street, Norwich, CT 060360 MercifulSaviourGifts.com p: (860) 887-2538 • UtleyandJones@att.net• www.UtleyandJones.com 14

FUNERAL HOMES

12 Ocean Avenue 12 Ocean Avenue New London,CT CT New London, 443-1871 443-1871

48 Grand 48 Grand Street Street Niantic, Niantic, CT CT 739-6112 739-6112

www.neilanfuneralhome.com

FUNERAL HOMES

By Gina Foster

about their personal experiences in Haiti, and Outreach to Haiti’s great progress over the years and all their current good works. The Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti continues the important work of helping Haitians help Haitians in the impoverished A fun family tradition of ours neighborhood of Christ Roi, is to play Santa Claus bingo on Recently, my daughter Lilly and I Port-au-Prince, Haiti. Christmas night with my whole attended the anniversary dinner family. We laugh and enjoy each for our ACA supported ministry This ACA supported ministry others’ company while sipping Outreach to Haiti to help it is working hard to put the coffee and hot cocoa. As the celebrate 35 years of helping finishing touches on its new building, which replaces two holidays come to an end, I reflect Haitians help Haitians. buildings destroyed by the on my friendships old and new, and how appreciative I am to I had the opportunity to briefly 2010 earthquake. This new have such a loving, generous and visit Haiti many years ago, and building will unite services it was so wonderful to hear provided to give Haitians access healthy family. firsthand from the honorees inter is upon us, and we hope you had the opportunity to enjoy special holiday activities, attend Christmas Mass, spend time with friends and family and enjoy Christmas traditions.

Generous can be defined as showing readiness to give more of something, such as money or time, than is strictly necessary or expected. We are so grateful for your generosity this year and your support of the Annual Catholic Appeal.

to a medical clinic, healthcare services, a food and nutritional supplement program, an education sponsorship program, a parish twinning program, and to provide hospitality to visitors. The diocese’s 35-year commitment in Haiti continues to be an inspiration to the people of Haiti and to all of us. As Susan Wallace, the executive director, said, “We are all God’s children throughout the world and God meant for us to help one another. We are thankful to the Diocese of Norwich for its commitment to our brothers and sisters in Haiti.”

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Outreach to Haiti Generously Helps Haitians Help Haitians for 35 Years

Donations of any amount are always gratefully received. May God bless you.

To donate or for more info, visit OutreachtoHaiti.org

Called to say ‘yes’

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Lawrence J. Barile Ordained to Holy Priesthood

Article By Ryan Blessing Photos by Catherine Hoffman

ocations do not fall out of the blue. “They arrive out of God’s grace, which touches hearts and which we experience through those whom God has placed in life’s path,” The Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, D.D. observed in his homily during Deacon Lawrence J. Barile’s ordination to the priesthood on Dec. 8, 2021. Using Barile’s own words, Bishop Cote noted that the deacon’s parents provided an example to Barile and his siblings of the importance of helping others in their time of need. “‘These early lessons helped me to realize that there is greater joy in giving of one’s self,’” Bishop Cote quoted Barile.

Another formative example of God’s grace that moved Barile toward the priesthood was his grandfather, a man who, Barile remembers, would always kiss the crucifix in the hallway of his apartment every time he left home and upon his return. “One can never underestimate the good examples in the early years of our faith,” Bishop Cote remarked. “They stay with us.” The Ritual Mass for the Conferral of Holy Orders took place at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich, with Bishop Cote as the ordaining celebrant. Drawing from the Gospel reading on the Feast of the Immaculate Conception, the

bishop likened Barile’s ordination to how Mary was “enriched by God with gifts” that enabled her to assume “this awesome role.” “Mary’s prompt ‘yes’ to the divine invitation is a model of faith for all believers,” Bishop Cote said. “Mary believed God’s promises, even when they seemed utterly impossible.” Like Mary, Deacon Barile was called to voice his ‘yes,’ and to invite others into trust. To proclaim the good news of salvation, to heal, to forgive sin, to comfort and above all, bring hope. “What a marvelous ministry it is, to follow in the footsteps of Christ,” Bishop Cote said.

“Relying on the help of the Lord God and our Savior Jesus Christ, we choose Lawrence John Barile, our brother, for the Order of the Priesthood,” Bishop Cote said. All present stood and applauded to show their consent. As the litany of supplication was chanted, the elect prostrated himself before the altar as all present, through the intercession of the saints, asked for God’s grace to be upon the new priest. Bishop Cote then laid his hands upon the head of the elect. It was through this laying on of hands that the sacrament of Holy Orders was conferred.

This was followed by the recitation of the prayer of ordination. Father Barile then was vested in the stole and chasuble by the Reverend Raymond D. Introvigne, Director of Spiritual Renewal Services. Father Barile imparted his blessing on Bishop Cote and extended his blessing to members of his family. After the ordination, the new priest gave his blessing to the invited guests, who waited in a line inside the cathedral.

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

A gathering of invited congregants, fellow diocesan priests, and deacons were at the cathedral to witness Barile’s ordination. The Mass also was live-streamed. Among the attendees were members of Barile’s family, including his sister, Sr. Karen Barile, who performed the first reading, and brother Steven and cousin James Barile. The Rite of Ordination began with the Presentation of the Elect by Reverend Jonathan Ficara, the vocations director for the diocese. Father Ficara proclaimed that the elect was found worthy of priesthood.

Annual Tree Festival Includes Two Diocesan Entries By Andrea D. Hoisl

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

t took nearly two years, a pandemic, global vaccinations and follow-up booster shots, but the Festival of Trees 2021 took place at the Wadsworth Athenaeum in Hartford this December. Hallelujah! The Diocese of Norwich, through the auspices of the Office of Faith Events, entered two trees for this year’s festival: The Nativity Tree and the One Heart Ministry Tree. After attending the festival two years ago, I was struck by the absence of any religious trees. I thought entering two religious-themed trees for this year’s festival would be a positive way to infuse spirituality into the secular celebration of Christmas. Originally the trees were slated for last year’s festival that was canceled because of Covid-19 precautions. For those of us that attended this year’s festival, it was well worth the wait. The variety of trees and wreaths included in the festival, all donated this year by schools, agencies, companies and individuals, was a beautiful reminder of the joy of Christmas. The Nativity Tree is a five-foot tree adorned with white lights and more than 100 ornaments made and donated by parishes and individuals from across the Diocese. Each ornament depicted the nativity scene with Jesus, Mary and Joseph in the stable on

Andrea Hoisl, director of the Diocesan Office of Faith Events, far right, stands next to the One-Heart Ministry tree entered in the Festival of Trees 2021 at the Wadsworth Athenaeum in Hartford. Joining her, left to right, are members of the One Heart Ministry group, Randy Bouley and Dina Bienvenu.

Christmas evening. The assortment included painted ornaments by local artists as well as hand-crafted ornaments made by past and present staff members of the Diocesan Bishop Flanagan Ministry Center. Lenox and crystal ornaments as well as various hand-crafted ornaments that were either quilted, cross stitched, knit or hand-sewn also adorned the tree. It was a beautiful witness of faith

TELEVISION MASS

The Nativity Tree stands in the Wadsworth Athenaeum’s Great Hall. It includes over 100 ornaments of the nativity, each donated or hand-crafted by people throughout the diocese.

and was placed in the Athenaeum’s Great Hall, which houses a large collection of the Athenaeum’s most famous religious artwork. The One Heart Ministry Tree was a seven-foot tree donated by Randy and Bruce Bouley, with ornaments made by members of the One Heart Ministry. One Heart Ministry is a diocesan initiative that works as a partnership with people with disabilities and their caregivers. The group’s activities include disability awareness programs and outreach that extends to schools and parishes in the diocese. The tree included more than 300 red heart lights as reminders that love is the key to happiness and success. The ornaments on the tree included words like kindness, love,

acceptance, hope, equality, joy and the tree’s theme, Room for All. The tree was designed by its founding member Dina Bienvenu, who also helped craft many of the tree’s ornaments including a tri-heart tree topper and handknit tree skirt. The tree also had decoupaged recycled wood that included quotes such as, “There is no greater disability in society than the inability to see a person as more,” by Robert M. Hensel, and the anonymous quote, “Labels are for jars not people.” We would like to thank everyone that contributed trees, ornaments, time and talent in helping to make both trees so beautiful. It was difficult donating them to the festival after having them up in our office for nearly two years. Our hope is that those purchasing the trees will enjoy them as much as we did. The Office of Faith Events will participate again next year with an entry of two trees. The theme for the Diocesan tree will be, “Angels Among Us,” which will include different types of angels. The theme for the One Heart Ministry Tree will be, “Reach for the Stars.” It will include different star ornaments made by people with disabilities and their caregivers. If you have a Christmas tree or ornaments you would like to donate for next year’s festival, please contact our office at 860848-2237, ext. 304.

FEBRUARY 2, 2022 Channel 11, WCCT • Channel 20, WTXX • Channel 59, WCTX

Love rejoices in seeing others grow and suffers when others are anguished, lonely, sick, homeless, despised or in need. Love makes the heart leap; it brings us out of ourselves and creates bonds of sharing and communion.

Christmas Stocking Project Benefits Youth in Need By Andrea Hoisl both agencies for distribution the week before Christmas. We were overwhelmed by the outpouring of generosity that was attached to this project. In addition to the stockings, many people donated extra toys and books to supplement or enhance a child’s Christmas. This project was a visual reminder to all of us that there is so much good that exists in our world. We sometimes become overwhelmed with negative news stories and the continuous stream of Covid information. This project served as a reminder that God is working through us and in us to make this world a better place every day. The stocking project was an offshoot of the Easter basket project sponsored by the OFE last Lent and spring. The overwhelming number of

Easter baskets donated for that project was an outward sign of peoples’ desire to do more at this very difficult time. The OFE plans to sponsor that project again and will send out information about it in the coming months. If you would like to receive announcements about OFE programs and projects, please email your address to manicholas@ norwichdiocese.net and we will include you in our office mailing list.

14 Club Road Windham, CT 06280 860.456.1107 www.sjlivingcenter.org

An Education You Can Believe In.

Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community. Embracing Service. Living Faith. Supported financially and spiritually by 10 parishes in the Middletown Deanery. Currently the only regional Pre-K to 8th grade school in the Norwich Diocese.

St. John Paul II Regional Catholic School 87 South Main Street / Middletown, CT 06457 Telephone: 860-347-2978 / www.jpii.org

Dedicating our love, compassion and service to our community.

Specializing in: *Short-term Rehabilitation *Long-term Care *End-of-Life Care *Daily Mass

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

he generosity of others throughout the diocese resulted in more than 250 Christmas stockings filled with candy, toys and various treats for families in need in the Norwich and Middletown areas. It was possible through the first Make a Memory Christmas Stocking Project, sponsored by the Office of Faith Events. Parishes and individuals made and donated the stockings for children 2-18. The stockings were distributed to two agencies located within the diocese serving those in need: St. Vincent DePaul Place in Norwich and Amazing Grace in Middletown. The OFE collected the stockings, labeled them male or female and estimated the age range for the recipient before delivering them to

Sponsoredby bythe the Sponsored Dioces of Norwich Diocese of Norwich

Watch the Knights of Columbus Documentary ‘Saint Joseph: Our Spiritual Father’ FCC News Desk

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

he newest Knights of Columbus documentary film, St. Joseph: Our Spiritual Father, is available at no cost at kofc.org/stjoseph as of December 8, 2021, to coincide with the end of the special Year of St. Joseph. A Providential renewal has come upon the Church with respect to understanding and praying to St. Joseph. To help the faithful in continuing their devotion to St. Joseph, the Knights of Columbus is offering its newest film, St. Joseph: Our Spiritual Father, for all to watch – at no cost. Since its launch, the film has received raving reviews and is rich in inspiring testimonials, including these powerful words from Most Rev. James Wall, Bishop of Gallup, New Mexico, “If you have a devotion to St. Joseph, strengthen that devotion. If you don’t, you should have one,” and these from Supreme Knight Patrick Kelly, “The example of St. Joseph teaches us that we really find ourselves when we live for others.”

Visit kofc.org/stjoseph to watch the film or learn more. Know someone who could benefit from joining the Order? Visit or share kofc.org/joinus for details.

Your son/daughter will succeed. ST. THOMAS MORE SCHOOL • Renowned college preparatory boarding school for young men and women who have not yet realized their potential. • Located in scenic southeastern Connecticut

860.823.3861

stmct.org

136 Sachem Street Norwich CT 06360 860-889-2374 Fax 860-886-2396

20 Mercy_Visit_FourCountyCathAd_Dec21_R1.indd 1

10/7/21 8:58 PM

A Prayer for 2022

Fire, Clea Carp Odo Com

Remember us, O God; from age to age be our comforter. You have given us the wonder of time,

Fir

blessings in days and nights, seasons and years.

Donate your unwanted car, truck, suv, boat or camper today! WE DO ALL THE WORK - fast & free pick up

Bless your children at the turning of the year and fill the months ahead with the bright hope

You receive a tax deduction. You decide where your donation goes.

Support Catholic Charities of Norwich DONATE YOUR CAR TODAY

that is ours in the coming of Christ. You are our God, living and reigning, forever and ever.

866-434-1131

St. Joseph School New London, CT

“A Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love”

A college prep program that opens the doors to opportunities.

A safe environment with strong Christian values.

Safety precautions in place to ensure the health and safety of all students and staff.

Visit the Virtual Admissions Center admissions@ahfbaltic.org | 54 West Main St. Baltic, CT ahfbaltic.org 860-822-6279

St. Joseph School Registration is ongoing 25 Squire Street Please call or visit New London, CT 06320 www.sjsnl.com for information Phone: 860-442-1720

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Amen

donationangel.org/ccfsn www.donationangel.org/ccfsn

Sacred Heart School, Groton Gail Kingston, Principal 50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton 860-445-0611 sacredheartgroton.org/school

Sacred Heart School, Taftville

Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville 860-887-1757 sacredhearttaftville.org

St. James School, Danielson Linda Marie Joyal, Principal 120 Water St, Danielson 860-774-3281 stjamesdanielson.org

St. John School, Old Saybrook

Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal 42 Maynard Road, Old Saybrook 860-388-0849 saintjohnschoolos.org

St. John Paul II School, Middletown Larry Fitzgerald, Principal 87 South Main Street. Middletown 860-347-2978 JPII.org

St. Joseph School, Baltic

Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal 10 School Hill Road, Baltic 860-822-6141 Stjosephschoolbaltic.com

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

St. Joseph School, New London

Marianne Cote, Principle 25 Squire Street, New London 860-442-1720 SJSNL.com

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck Doris Messina, Principal West Broad St., Pawcatuck 860-599-1084 stmichaelschoolct.com

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich Sharon Stewart, Principal 211 Broadway, Norwich 860-889-4174 st-patrickschoolnorwich.org

Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic Mother Mary David, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic 860-822-9272 ahfbaltic.org

Mercy High School, Middletown Alissa DeJonge, President 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown 860-346-6659 mercyhigh.com

St. Bernard School, Uncasville

Donald Macrino, Headmaster 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke, Uncasville 860-848-1271 saint-bernard.com

Xavier High School, Middletown David C. Eustis, Headmaster Brendan Donohue, Principal 181 Randolph Road, Middletown 860-346-7735 xavierhighschool.org

Saint Bernard School Continues Tradition of Excellence My dear friends, This month we focus the spotlight on another one of the outstanding educational institutions in the diocese - Saint Bernard School in Uncasville.

Bernard School and became one of 13 distinguished Xaverian Schools in the nation. As the school grew and changed with the times, the history of academic excellence remained. Saint Bernard School has educated students who became CEOs, doctors, lawyers, military leaders, businesspeople and civic officials. More importantly, they became compassionate individuals who are committed to making the world better.

Under the direction of Bishop Bernard J. Flanagan of the Norwich Diocese and with generous contributions, Saint Bernard High School opened in 1956 in New London as an all-girls school. Father Benedict was the school’s first Saint Bernard emphasizes developing principal and he was supported by a the mind, body and spirit of each student. Learning is constantly assessed number of religious and lay teachers. in order to have the greatest effect Over the years, Saint Bernard High on the lives of students. The middle School became co-educational, moved school program lays an academic and to Uncasville, admitted students in developmental foundation for high grades 6-12, changed its name to Saint

Besides academic opportunities, it offers a wide range of extracurricular avenues for students to explore their passions in the arts, athletics and in student organizations. Faculty provide mentorship and guidance that helps students lead healthy, successful lives. Graduates are accepted and matriculated at some of the most prestigious institutions in the United States such as

Columbia University, Harvard University, Massachusetts Institute of Technology, the University of Chicago, Johns Hopkins University and others.

Saint Bernard School hosts a diverse religious, economic and social student population. The common thread is students choose to come here. Because it is their choice, they are invested. There is a seriousness of purpose that is a common thread with Saint Bernard students. While most students are Catholic, it has students who are Muslim, Jewish, non-CatholicChristian, and students with no formal religion. The foundation of the school, however, is in the teachings of Jesus Christ. Those teachings of goodness,

compassion and humility are community that will last a universal to the world’s major lifetime. religions – values recognized globally as essential to society. Saint Bernard School is for students in grades 6-12.To learn The school makes private more about how your child can education affordable for become a member of the Saint families through its Tailored Bernard community or for a Tuition program. In addition, private tour, visit the website at there are merit and need- www.saintbernardschool.org or based scholarships. Last year, call 860-848-1271. it awarded $1.3 million in assistance. May God bless you and Three promises are made to keep you safe. students:

Dr. Gail Kingston  they will be well prepared Superintendent of Schools for higher education; they will strengthen their moral compass; and, they will belong to a

PLACEMENT TEST

Recognizing students have various academic strengths, skills and abilities our Placement Test allows us to put students in the correct classes to challenge and strengthen them.

SAINT BERNARD SCHOOL

Saturday, January 22, 2022 Saturday, April 30, 2022

Save the Dates! To register for any of the events, call 860-848-1271 or visit SaintBernardSchool.org for a 3-D Tour and to learn more! Saint Bernard School Grades 6–12 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke Uncasville, CT 06382 Ask us about our Tailored Tuition Program to help meet your family’s unique financial situation.

OPEN HOUSE

We invite you to join us at our Virtual Open House where you can learn about our academic programs, athletics, campus life and much more. Thursday, January 13, 2022 Saturday, February 5, 2022 Thursday, February 17, 2022

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

school and beyond. In the high school in addition to core coursework, students choose from several extracurricular courses, Advanced Placement Courses, and dual enrollment at local colleges. These courses give students the tools to be successful in higher education.

Middle School Math Madness at Saint Bernard School By Kimberly S. Hodges

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

ast year was the inaugural year for the Saint Bernard Chapter of Chi Alpha Mu Middle School Honor Society. Chi Alpha Mu stands for Creative Adventures in Mathematics and it promotes enjoyment and understanding of mathematics by middle school students. One of the goals of Chi Alpha Mu is to recognize middle school students at Saint Bernard School who are performing at a high level in mathematics.

at this type of contest. “Even if our students don’t win the tournament, they will be back next year with stronger skills and an awareness of how the competition works,” he said. In the competition, students learn how to work on deeper level math problems that require not only knowledge of formulas, but a higher degree of critical thinking, analysis and an ability to use what he calls their “puzzle brain.”

In December, 14 students in grades 6-8 competed in their

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first national math competition, Math Madness, U.S. They were among the more than 200 teams and 14,525 students competing. The national online team-based math competition is held every fall and spring. Students go headto-head with the other teams in the country in four weekly rounds, followed by a bracket tournament.

“It’s not just knowing math but also how to do something with the knowledge you have and make sense of it,” Donnelly said.

The eighth-grade students participating in the competition are a year or two ahead of their peers in math. Donnelly also said the tournament is one way of encouraging students to continue their passion for math and prepare them for higherlevel math studies offered at Saint Faculty advisor Matt Donnelly Bernard such as the Philosophy of was optimistic for the team this Space and Time, The Philosophy year, and it has performed above of Religion, and Philosophy of his expectations. Saint Bernard’s Math and Astrophysics. top five scoring students rank fifth, with 96.9 percent among Another goal that he has for the highest-scoring teams in the the program “is to encourage national standings. students to consider careers in the STEM fields (science, Donnelly said many of the technology, engineering and competitor schools have been mathematics). All fields of study participating in Math Madness and work require an ability to for years and have experience think critically. ”

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Academy of the Holy Family Celebrates Discover Catholic Schools Week By Sister Kateri

n Nov. 13 the Academy of the Holy Family began Discover Catholic Schools Week in New England with their in-person open house. The Ambassadors did a wonderful job preparing for this event, which included a student panel, a tour of the Academy and dorms and a time for fellowship with one another. Families traveling from Virginia, New Jersey and Massachusetts had the opportunity to speak with faculty members and students. It was a great way to begin the week celebrating Catholic schools.

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Monday: Holy Hour

On Monday, we wrapped up our day by having a Holy Hour in the chapel. The Holy Hour winds us down to spend some time with God in silence and with Praise and Worship music as a group. This was a great way to spend time in prayer and thank God for the first day of Catholic Schools Week. – Anna Plascencia

Tuesday: Teacher Superlatives

On Tuesday during lunch, our school enjoyed watching members of the Student Council give superlatives to our teachers. Some highlights were when our principal, Mr. Fiore, received an award for being most likely to have the biggest smile and our vice principal, Sister Rafael, received an award for being most likely to own Barbie’s boyfriend Ken’s Jeep. Our Morality teacher, Mother Mary Mark, received an award for most likely to do everything with her whole heart. This was a great opportunity for students to hear fun facts about their teachers. – Isabella Wright

(Continued)

(Continued) Academy of the Holy Family Celebrates Discover Catholic Schools Week

Wednesday: Religion Class Skits

On Wednesday, all the religion classes came up with different ways to share their knowledge about Jesus, except for the seniors, who shared a special message for the school. The first religion skit was from the Overview of Catholicism class. They decided to do a skit based on the 14 Stations of the Cross. The second class was Sacred Scripture, and they did charades based on stories from the Old and New Testaments. Last but not least was Mortality class when the seniors talked about gossip. It was a great way to visualize our faith and how we personally portray it through our words and actions. – Ellie Cooper

On Thursday we held our annual Thanksgiving meal. The cafeteria was beautifully decorated with lights and Autumn leaves. We began with a wonderful prayer service written by Mr. Fiore, our principal. Afterwards we ate a delicious meal which consisted of the classics: turkey, stuffing, cranberries, mashed potatoes and pumpkin pie. We hold this event every year to bring the entire community together in gratitude for one another. – Iris Gillette

Friday: Play Our Drama Club put on a hilarious play called, “Much Ado Out West,” based on Shakespeare’s “Much Ado About Nothing.” It was held on Friday and Saturday at Saint Michael’s Center and included lassoing, some cowboy hats and stolen cows. The characters kept us laughing with their wonderful Western accents and sneaky schemes. Much fun was had by all and we thank Sister Rafael, the drama director, and the talented Drama Club for sharing their gifts and talents with us. – Sister Kateri

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Thursday: Thanksgiving Dinner

Free Virtual Women’s Retreat Via Zoom Dr. Mary Manton

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

omen from Our Lady Queen of Peace parish in Coventry and Storrs present a free one-day retreat for women from 9 a.m. to 3:30 p.m. on Saturday, Jan. 29, entitled, “Encountering Jesus in the Eucharist & Everyday Life.” It will be presented virtually on Zoom.

discussions of personal experiences from women of the parish retreat team.

The retreat will feature discussion about encountering the true presence of Jesus in the Eucharist at Mass, Eucharistic adoration, and prayer, as well as in everyday life. Fr. Jonathan Ficara, director of vocations for the diocese, will say an opening prayer and there will be an engaging talk on the Eucharist by Deacon John Hunt from the Archdiocese of Boston. Participants can also join in songs and

The retreat team looks forward to an enjoyable gathering of women to share their faith and stories. For questions and to register, please contact Elizabeth Percy at: tiggpercy@hotmail.com.

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Let us pray for the catechists, summoned to announce the Word of God: may they be its witnesses, For true human fraternity with courage andsuffering creativity We pray for all those from religious discrimination and persecution; and in the power of the may their own rights and dignity be recognized, which originate from being Holy Spirit.

PRAYER INTENTION

brothers and sisters in the human family.

- Pope Francis

Sacraments 101 + A.M.D.G. +

Volume 14: Holy Orders Part I I By Father Michael Bovino

Holy Orders, like the Sacrament of Marriage, comprises more than just the decision of one or two people for the sacrament to take place. Previously, we saw how Jesus raised the natural gift of marriage to the level of a sacrament. This means that marriage as a sacrament is more than just a man and a woman deciding to join their lives together.

We know that Jesus calls both men and women to follow Him and to serve Him. Nonetheless, despite the many women who faithfully followed Him, the Apostles that Jesus called were men. And since our bishops, priests, and deacons today all share in the priesthood that Jesus gave to the Apostles, the Church recognizes that those Jesus calls to receive Holy Orders also must be men (CCC 1577). This leads us into the proper matter and a proper form for Holy Orders. The Church affirms that “a baptized male alone [can] receive sacred ordination validly” (Code of Canon Law, 1024). Thus, the proper “matter” for Holy Orders is a “baptized male.”

As Venerable Fulton Sheen said, “It takes three to get married,” (the man, the woman, and God.) So too, for a man to receive Holy Orders, it involves more than someone waking up one day and deciding, “I want to be a priest!” (Although that is a

On the other hand, the “form” of Holy Orders is two-fold: it “consists in the bishop’s imposition of hands on the head of the ordinand [the man being ordained] and in the bishop’s specific consecratory prayer asking God for the outpouring of the Holy Spirit and His great starting point). Marriage and Holy Orders are both vocations. gifts” (CCC 1573). That is to say, they are callings from God that require the free response Through this two-fold action of the bishop (laying his hands on the and cooperation of those whom He Calls. head of the man being ordained and the proper ordination prayer “No one has a right to receive the sacrament of Holy Orders … he is over him), baptized men receive the Sacrament of Holy Orders to be called to it by God” (CCC 1578). The Letter to the Hebrews affirms servants and shepherds of the baptized. the Divine calling of God’s sacred As God’s Providence would have it, (the Lord’s timing is always ministers when he says that every high priest is taken from among impeccable), our diocese had the blessing of witnessing the ordination men and made their representative before God … no one takes this of Reverend Mr. Lawrence Barile to the Priesthood on December 8, honor upon himself but only when called by God, just as Aaron was 2021. Congratulations Father Barile - by the grace of God, may you be an effective minister at His holy altar and a humble servant to His (Heb 5:1-4). holy people.

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

In this second and final part of our discussion on the Sacrament of Holy Orders, we’ll look at the proper matter and form required for the sacrament. But in order to do that, we have to first recall something important.

Class is in session... 29

Fai t h Sparks

The Light of Faith Can Illuminate Our Way This New Year

By Liza Roach

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

anuary brings hope for the spring because each day gets a little longer. The Catholic Church also celebrates the Feast of the Baptism of Jesus. What do both of these have in common? Light! Pope Francis’ very first encyclical was called Lumen Fidei – The Light of Faith. In the letter, Pope Francis communicates that faith is illuminating. Faith is a light that shines on all aspects of our lives. In the Gospel of John 8:12, John writes, “Jesus spoke to them again, saying, ‘I am the light of the world. Whoever follows me will not walk in darkness but will have the light of life.’” Pope Francis lets us know that Jesus is the light of faith. I remember my brother Robb and I visiting my Uncle Mike

when we were children. It was just before Halloween and Uncle Mike thought it would be great to watch scary movies with a 7- and 8-year-old. Riveted by “Jaws” and “Friday the 13th,” we hid our faces at the yucky parts and jumped out of our seats when bad guys came on screen. After the movie, my uncle did not realize that Robb would become scared of the dark. Robb no longer could rely on darkness to protect him and from that time on he slept with the light on in his room. Why do I mention this? Well, I am sure many of us had a challenging time seeing the “light” in the past year. Pope Francis points to this dynamic in Lumen Fidei. He wrote: “Faith came to be associated with darkness … in the absence of light everything becomes confused; it is impossible to

tell good from evil, or the road to our destination from other roads which take us in endless circles, going nowhere. There is an urgent need, then, to see once again that faith is a light.” It is time for us to come back to renew our love for Jesus and be transformed by His love for us and allow Him to take center stage in our lives. One of the ways Pope Francis has called us to make the Light of Faith present and vital to our lives is through community. We have gotten out of the habit of going to Mass regularly and often our prayer life suffers as a result. It is time to get back to our communities and pray with our parish family. Another way that Pope Francis reminds us to have the Light of Faith in our lives is to remember God, Jesus, and the Holy Spirit

are not just part of the past. The gift of faith is not the end but the beginning of our journey with God. It should grow along the path of life. This, like everything worthwhile in life, takes work. As a child, my brother feared the darkness, so he was drawn to the light. This January, let us look at each day getting longer and smile at the increasing daylight. Let us remember the words spoken at baptism when the priest or deacon lights the baptismal candles and says, “Receive the light of Christ.” Let all of us be optimistic as we begin this New Year because we have the Light of Faith to illuminate our way.

Ignite Your Faith. Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks to read Lumen Fidei and find additional resources to grow in faith in 2022.

Calendar of Events

Official Approved Notice from U.S. Bankruptcy Court for the District of Connecticut

Sexual Abuse and General Claims in The Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich, Connecticut Bankruptcy The Norwich Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation, a/k/a the Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich (“Diocese” or “Debtor”) has filed bankruptcy in order to restructure its nonprofit organization. Please read this notice carefully as it may impact your rights against the Diocese and provides information about the case, In re The Norwich Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation (Bankr. D. Conn.). This notice is a short summary.

Who Should File a Sexual Abuse Claim?

Virtual BINGO

Great prizes and fun for all ages. Cards are $6 each and will be emailed, BINGO is played online. Only 200 cards will be sold. To register go to http://bit.ly/2Laol7Y Questions? Call Marianne at 860-848-2237, ext. 304

Wednesdays, January 26 through March 1, 6:30- 8 PM Norwich Diocesan Book Club

Join the Office of Faith Events in reading and discussing “Tobit’s Dog,” by Michael Nicholas Richard. To register, please contact Marianne at manicholas@norwichdiocese.net or 860848-2237, ext. 304

Sunday, January 30, 7 PM, St. Thomas Aquinas, Storrs Young Adult Mass

St. Thomas Aquinas in Storrs is delighted to host the 4th Annual Diocesan Young Adult Mass & Reception. All Young Adults (ages 18-39, single and married) are invited and encouraged to attend. Please invite friends. Mass with Bishop Cote will begin at 7 PM with a small reception in the Catholic Center to follow the liturgy.

Saturday, March 26, 9 AM - Noon

Save the Date: The 2022 Norwich Diocesan Virtual Women’s Conference

Keynote speaker, author, and certified spiritual director Liz Kelly will present ideas from her book “Love Like a Saint.” We will hear from Bishop Cote, name the 2022 Our Lady Queen of Hope Award recipient and more all from the comfort of your own home. Questions? Please contact the Office of Faith Events at 860-848-2237, or manicholas@norwichdiocese.net

When Should I File a Sexual Abuse Claim?

Regardless of how old you are today or when the sexual abuse occurred, you need to file your claim so that it is received by 5 p.m. (prevailing Eastern Time) on March 15, 2022. If you do not file a timely Sexual Abuse Claim, you may lose rights against the Diocese and against Diocese Related Entities, including any right to compensation. Your information will be kept private. For a list of names of clergy that have been identified in connection with sexual abuse claims, go to https://www.norwichdiocese.org/Find/Accused-Clergy. For more information on the bankruptcy case, go to https://dm.epiq11.com/case/rcdn or call 1-855-654-0902. The Sexual Abuse Bar Date of March 15, 2022 is not subject to further extension, even if there is a change in the applicable statute of limitations. You should consider submitting a proof of claim even if you believe your claim may be subject to an affirmative defense such as a statute of limitations.

When Should I File a General Bar Date Claim? If you have a non-sexual abuse claim, you will need to file so that it is received by 5 p.m. (prevailing Eastern Time) on March 15, 2022. More information is available at https://dm.epiq11.com/case/rcdn.

ACT NOW Before Time Runs Out: You can download and file a claim at the website or call the toll-free number listed below for help on how to file a claim by mail.

File a Proof of Claim.

Have questions? Call or visit the website for more information.

If your claim is approved, you may receive compensation from the bankruptcy.

https://dm.epiq11.com/case/rcdn 1-855-654-0902

JANUARY 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Sunday, January 9, 3:30- 5 PM

Anyone who was sexually abused, on or before July 15, 2021, and believes the Diocese may be responsible for the sexual abuse must file a claim. This includes sexual abuse in connection with any entity or activity associated with the Diocese. Sexual Abuse Claims include but are not limited to: sexual misconduct, touching, inappropriate contact, or sexual comments about a person or other behaviors that led to abuse, and regardless of whether you thought the behavior was sexual abuse or not.

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THANKS TO YOUR GENEROUS SUPPORT, THE FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC CAN SERVE ITS READERS BY SHARING CHRIST’S GOSPEL MESSAGE AND BY CELEBRATING OUR DIOCESAN COMMUNITY, ITS MEMBERS, AND MINISTRIES. IT IS A PRIVILEGE TO CONTINUE TO SHARE THE GOOD NEWS OF THE GOSPEL WITH YOU. HAPPY NEW YEAR!

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