is the very life of a person, and cheerfulness prolongs his days.
(Sirach 30:22)
Story on Page 12
392 South Main St., Colchester
3. FROM THE BISHOP
4. FROM THE EDITOR’S KEYBOARD
5. VOCATIONS CORNER
Priest Jubilareans celebrate Ordination Milestones
6. ANNUAL CATHOLIC APPEAL
Christopher Society thanked for their support
8. PARENTING PURSUITS
Planting seeds of faith in our children
10. MARRIAGE MATTERS
Date nights can strengthen relationships
11. OBITUARIES
Christian & Catholic books, art, greeting cards, jewelry, church supplies, sacramental gifts & more!
T-W 10am-5pm • Th-F 10am-6pm • Sat 10am-3pm
860.537.0079
mercifulsaviourgifts.com • mercifulsaviourgifts@gmail.com
PROMISE to Protect Pledge to HEAL
12. COVER STORY
Clowning for Christ
14. SETON HONOREES
Trio to be honored at 13th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner
16. WALKING WITH FRIENDS
Parishioner creates app to make walking more fun
17. CATHOLIC SCOUTING
Ceremony honors Catholic Scouts
18. SUMMER READING
Andrea & Wayne share their recommendations
20. THE ASSUMPTION
Three realities that change everything
22. DIAKONIA: INSTRUMENT OF GOD’S CHARITY
Preaching the Word of God
23. AROUND THE DIOCESE
Events of interest happening in parishes and ministries
We Can Help
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 @ at 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
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, The Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ, also known as Corpus Christi, is celebrated this year on June 11th.
As you know, the Latin term “Corpus Christi” translates into the English words “Body of Christ.”
Isn’t it interesting that the label ‘Body of Christ’ refers to both the Church and the Eucharist? This is not a mistake, rather it is a beautiful understanding of what unites the people of God to Christ.
Our understanding that the Church is not a building or even a visible organization goes as far back as the writings of Saint Paul. “For just as the body is one and has many members, and all the members of the body, though many, are one body, so it is with Christ. For by one Spirit, we were all baptized into one body . . . and all were made to drink of one Spirit.” (1 Cor 12:13-27)
What unites us and makes us the people of God is the Eucharist, which is Christ Himself. Christ is to the Church what the soul is to the body.
When the priest holds up the consecrated host, he says, “Behold the Lamb of God.” It is something we can see. What we see with our senses alone is only the appearances of bread and wine.
The Eucharist is not a symbol or a ceremonial liturgy. Jesus did not say, “This resembles My Body.” Rather, He said, “This IS My Body.” We believe that because Christ is God, and God always speaks the truth.
The Eucharist is Christ Himself. Jesus said, “Whoever eats My flesh and drinks My blood has eternal life.” (Jn 6:51-59)
This passage not only provides us with the significance of the Eucharist, but it also indicates Jesus’ ability to proclaim the truth even when faced with criticism for His words. Instead of backtracking and saying something akin to, “That is not what I meant.” He instead strengthened His public statement about the Eucharist being His
Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, La Solemnidad del Santísimo Cuerpo y Sangre de Cristo, también conocida como Corpus Christi, este año se celebrará el 11 de junio.
El término latino Corpus Christi, como usted sabe, se traduce a las palabras en español Cuerpo de Cristo.
¿No es interesante que el título “Cuerpo de Cristo” se refiere tanto a la Iglesia como a la Eucaristía? Esto no es un error, sino una hermosa comprensión de lo que une al pueblo de Dios a Cristo.
Body and Blood by declaring, “Amen, amen, I say to you, unless you eat the Flesh of the Son of Man and drink His Blood, you do not have life within you.” (Jn 6:53)
We know that “as a result of this, many of His disciples returned to their former way of life and no longer accompanied Him.” (Jn 6:66)
Jesus reinforced this teaching on Holy Thursday at the Institution of the Eucharist and again at what has been referred to as the “Second Mass” on that first Easter Sunday on the road to Emmaus.
Do not be disheartened if you still struggle with understanding Jesus being really and truly present in the Eucharist. Faith is a gift. And much like the disciples journeying on the road to Emmaus, Jesus’ presence may be hidden from you. Pray to have that faith strengthened.
Sometimes, Jesus conceals His presence among us to challenge us to deepen our faith in Him and in His enduring presence among us in both Word and Sacrament. But dear brothers and sisters, once we do recognize Him and encounter the power of His presence, most of all in the Holy Eucharist, we, like those first disciples, are called to go forth and tell others so that they might believe that Jesus is real; that He is alive; that He is truly risen, and that He continues to make Himself, and the redeeming grace He won for us present in so many ways!
Have a blessed and safe summer. Sincerely Yours in Christ,
Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich
Nuestro entendimiento de que la Iglesia no es un edificio o incluso una organización visible se remonta a los escritos de San Pablo “Hemos sido bautizados en el único Espíritu para que formáramos un solo cuerpo, ya fuéramos judíos o griegos, esclavos o libres. Y todos hemos bebido del único Espíritu…Ustedes son el cuerpo de Cristo y cada uno en su lugar es parte de él. (1 Corintios 12:13-27)
Lo que nos une y nos hace pueblo de Dios es la Eucaristía, que es Cristo mismo. Cristo es a la Iglesia lo que el alma es al cuerpo.
Cuando el sacerdote levanta la hostia consagrada, dice: “He aquí el Cordero de Dios”. Es CONTINÚA EN LA PÁGINA 4 >>>
algo que podemos ver. Lo que vemos con nuestros sentidos es solo la apariencia del pan y el vino.
La Eucaristía no es un símbolo ni una liturgia ceremonial. Jesús no dijo: “Esto se parece a Mi Cuerpo”. Más bien, dijo: “Este es mi cuerpo”. Creemos eso porque Cristo es Dios, y Dios siempre dice la verdad.
La Eucaristía es Cristo mismo. Jesús dijo: “El que come mi carne y bebe mi sangre tiene vida eterna”. (Juan 6:51-59)
Este pasaje no solo nos brinda el significado de la Eucaristía, sino que también indica la capacidad de Jesús para proclamar la verdad incluso cuando enfrenta críticas por sus palabras. En lugar de retroceder y decir algo como: "Eso no es lo que quise decir". En cambio, reforzó su declaración pública acerca de que la Eucaristía es Su Cuerpo y Sangre al declarar: “Amén, amén, en verdad les digo que si no comen la carne del Hijo del hombre y no beben su sangre, no tienen vida en ustedes.” (Juan 6:53)
Sabemos que “A partir de entonces muchos de sus discípulos se volvieron atrás y dejaron de seguirle.”.
(Juan 6:66)
Jesús reforzó esta enseñanza el Jueves Santo en la Institución de la Eucaristía y nuevamente en lo que se ha denominado la “Segunda Misa” en ese primer Domingo de Pascua en el camino a Emaús. No se desanime si todavía le cuesta entender que Jesús está real y verdaderamente presente en la Eucaristía. La fe es un regalo. Y al igual que los discípulos que iban por el camino a Emaús, la presencia de Jesús puede estar oculta para usted. Ore para que esa fe se fortalezca.
A veces Jesús oculta Su presencia para desafiarnos a profundizar nuestra fe en Él y en Su presencia perdurable entre nosotros tanto en la Palabra como en el Sacramento. Por eso, queridos hermanos y hermanas, una vez que lo reconozcamos y encontremos el poder de Su presencia, sobre todo en la Sagrada Eucaristía, nosotros, al igual que aquellos primeros discípulos, estamos llamados a salir y decir a los demás para que crean que Jesús es real; que Él está vivo; que Él verdaderamente resucitó, y que Él continúa en sí mismo y en la gracia redentora que ganó para nosotros ¡haciéndose presente de tantas maneras!.
Que tenga un verano bendecido y seguro, Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo,
I am excited to share with you the latest issue of the Four County Catholic magazine, which highlights ways to grow in faith during the summer months and also features a fascinating cover story by Deacon Ben LoCasto on Clown David, a Ringling Bros. and Barnum & Bailey Clown College graduate. David's story is a unique one. His journey from Judaism to Roman Catholicism is a testament to the power of faith and the unexpected ways in which God can touch our lives. We hope that his story will inspire you and remind you of the many different paths that lead us to Christ.
The second phase of the Eucharistic Revival launches on June 11, the Feast of Corpus Christi. It is a beautiful celebration of the Eucharist and the Real Presence of Christ among us. Bishop Michael R. Cote reflects on this solemnity, while unpacking Catholic teaching on the Real Presence.
Summertime can also be a wonderful opportunity to grow in faith. Inside these pages are articles that feature ideas for activities that can help us deepen our spiritual lives while enjoying the beauty of nature and the joys of summer. From prayer walks to outdoor Masses, to reading spiritual books together, there are many ways to make the most of the season while also growing in faith.
For couples, Mary-Jo McLaughlin explores the importance of spending quality time together and nurturing our relationships in the context of our faith. She offers tips and advice for planning summer dates that can help us grow closer to each other and to God.
For parents, we understand that summertime can be a challenging time to balance work, childcare, and other responsibilities. However, it can also be a wonderful time to create meaningful memories and traditions with our children that can last a lifetime. Our special correspondent, Andrea DePaola, offers ideas for family activities that can help parents make the most of the summer months while also nurturing your child or grandchild’s faith.
As we approach Aug. 15, we reflect on the Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary into heaven. This is an important feast day for Catholics around the world as we celebrate the belief that Mary was taken up into heaven, body and soul, after the end of her earthly life. Morgan Martens offers insights into the significance of this feast day and how it can help us grow in our understanding of the role of Mary in our faith, our daily lives and throughout the Eucharistic Revival.
We hope that this summertime issue of the Four County Catholic will be a source of inspiration and encouragement for all of our readers. May it help you to deepen your faith and your relationship with Christ, as well as encourage you to seek out new ways to grow in your spiritual journey. Please be sure to share this issue with family and friends.
While you are at it, please send feedback to Communications@ NorwichDiocese.net and prayers for our team to God.
Sincerely,
Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich
Priests, deacons and faithful communicants from throughout the diocese gathered for the annual Chrism Mass, which took place at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich.
In addition to blessing the sacred oils, the Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, D.D., led the renewal of priestly promises before the assembled priests and jubilarians. “Our priests are here to renew their priestly promises, and we gather together in spirit with the faithful throughout our diocese to call upon the Savior of the world to renew His presence in our lives, our ministries and our work in building God’s kingdom in this portion of His vineyard,” Bishop Cote remarked.
The priests resolved to renew their promises, to be more united with and more closely conformed to the Lord, to “be faithful stewards of the mysteries of God” in liturgical rites and to “discharge faithfully the office of teaching.”
If you or someone you know is interested in discerning a vocation to the priesthood, please contact vocations@norwichdiocese. net or call 860.887.9294.
St. Maximilian Kolbe (1894-1941) was a Polish Catholic priest and martyr. He founded the Militia Immaculata and promoted devotion to the Virgin Mary. During World War II, he was imprisoned in Auschwitz, where he selflessly volunteered to take the place of a condemned prisoner. His act of sacrificial love touched many.
St. Maximilian Kolbe’s life exemplifies the virtues of love, sacrifice, and forgiveness. His Feast Day is celebrated on August 14th. Canonized by the Catholic Church in 1982, he is revered as a saint and an inspiration to countless people worldwide.
Every spring, Bishop Cote and the ACA hold a dinner to personally thank our Christopher Society donors, those who give $1,000 or more to the Annual Catholic Appeal, for their continued kindness. This year’s dinner was held at the Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station. No matter the difficulties they, their families or the world is facing, these donors continue to give with compassion and grace, and, in doing so, enable our many ministries and programs to be the hands of Christ to so many in need in our communities. This past year, 615 families made the commitment to be Christophers and together they accounted for close to 50 percent of the ACA goal of $2.7 million.
The evening opened with Mrs. Mary Ellen Mahoney, ACA executive director, welcoming Bishop Cote, Monsignor Janik, invited guests and members of the Christopher Society. Mrs. Mahoney provided a brief synopsis of the 2022 ACA in which she shared how well our ACA-supported ministries and programs rose to the challenge, continuing to meet the needs of our friends and neighbors for spiritual, educational and physical sustenance. She noted that close to 8,000 people received help with basic needs, financial assistance, housing support and help with parenting, while more than 1.3 million meals and meal equivalents were distributed, nearly 9,000 students were educated in faith and hundreds were able to attend programs and seminars through our Office of Faith Events and Spiritual Renewal, bringing people closer to Jesus and giving them strength to face life's challenges. She thanked the Christophers and all ACA donors for their great generosity, noting that the ACA exceeded its goal for the second year in a row, which has not happened since 2007.
Before dinner, Bishop Cote greeted the Christophers, thanking them for their “unfailing support of the Annual Catholic Appeal.” Bishop Cote continued, “You truly do live your faith each and every day and because of your sacrifice and generosity, you keep our ministries doing the work of Christ.” Following dinner, Bishop Cote made a presentation to Mr. Ted and Mrs. Ruth Rossi of the Rossi Foundation and attorney Andrew Becker, of the Padre Pio Foundation of America, for providing the ACA’s first-
ever donor matching grant initiative. Bishop Cote said, “The Rossi Foundation and the Padre Pio Foundation of America provided our ACA with a much-needed boost in the last quarter of the year, when they graciously agreed to match 50 cents on the dollar for all new donations that were received between September and December. Based on this initiative, donors came forward with moret than $200,000 in new donations, which the Rossi Foundation and the Padre Pio Foundation of America matched, donating $100,000, and bringing us to our goal.”
The evening concluded on a very happy note when Wayne Gignac, director of the Office of Communications and executive editor of the Four County Catholic magazine, was welcomed to the podium by Mrs. Mahoney, who noted that the Office of Communications is an ACA-supported ministry. She thanked Mr. Gignac for his hard work and his recent launch of the magazine, which has met great success. In the hope of expanding the evangelization component, the Four County Catholic is now sent to all
registered parishioners not just ACA donors. “We are receiving a lot of positive feedback and truly appreciate Wayne for spearheading this initiative,” Mrs. Mahoney said.
Mr. Gignac, who is also a published author, professional speaker and magician, gave an entertaining presentation, regaling the audience with his magic and insights. “Remember, that it was often Jesus’ joy that attracted others to Him,” Wayne told the capacity crowd. “His suffering and death were only the last few days of His life. We need to be transformed into joyous Catholics if we ever hope to attract others to the joy of Christ.”
To view the ACA video or learn more about the 2023 Annual Catholic Appeal and about how you can help support the ministries and programs in the Diocese of Norwich, please visit www.norwichdiocesedevelopment. org and make your pledge, or call the Office of Development at 860.886.1928. For specific questions, Heather Harris, our campaign manager, may be reached at hharris@norwichdiocese.net or 860.886.1928, ext. 111.
WE NEED TO BE TRANSFORMED INTO JOYOUS CATHOLICS IF WE EVER HOPE TO ATTRACT OTHERS TO THE JOY OF CHRIST.”
One of the greatest responsibilities we have as parents is the blessing of instilling faith into our children’s lives. Most are familiar with the age-old proverb: “Train up a child in the way he should go, and when he is old he will not depart from it.” (Prv 22:6) However, as any parent will attest, this is no simple task. Many of us often carry the weight of the world upon our shoulders — we’re stretched-thin, burned out and have mastered the art of multitasking. The days and weeks can feel so very long, I know. Though we may not care to admit it, time is ticking. It’s marching forward, full speed ahead. The fact of the matter is: We only get one shot at this thing called “parenting.” While we’re in the midst of caring for our children’s physical and emotional needs, we must pause and ask ourselves: Are we tending to their spiritual needs, as well?
Parents are very good at managing their children — the busy schedules, the routines, plans for the future. But, are we forming them well? I’ve come to learn that there’s a difference between management and formation — the latter of which involves being fully present and intentional with our children’s hearts and spiritual upbringing. Sunday Mass, religious education, ministries and Catholic schools are all critical in the spiritual upbringing of our children. However, we must not forget the instrumental role of the parents when it comes to teaching about God, the faith and prayer. The Catechism of the Catholic Church states, “The Christian
home is the place where the children receive the first proclamation of the faith. For this reason, the family home is rightly called the domestic church, a community of grace and prayer, a school of human virtues and of Christian charity.” (1666)
What, then, can we do to help our kids find connection and stay rooted with God? How can we teach our kids that He is not only real, but a very personal God, who wants to have a deep connection and relationship with us?
First, we must remember that while our roles and the degree in which we train our children may shift and change over the years, God is our constant. He is ever faithful, giving us His
unconditional and infinite love, so we, in turn, can share that love with our children.
Once the seeds of faith are planted, we must then create an environment that is conducive for our children to cultivate that faith, allowing them to develop their own personal relationship with the Lord.
This can be done by encouraging each child to use their unique gifts or interests to find God. If you have an artist on your hands, help that child seek the Lord through his or her own creations. Perhaps they’ll
connect with Him as they paint a mountain or sketch a flower. Or maybe they can pray as they listen to a beautiful piece of music. If one of your children is a bookworm, encourage him or her to connect with God through Scripture, or through their own writing. Perhaps you have a child with a nurturing, compassionate heart. Teach them the power of love-in-action and encourage them to perform acts of service. Our Lord can certainly be found in the homeless, or the sick, or the elderly.
In Jeremiah 1:5, God says, “Before I formed you in the womb, I knew you; before you were born, I consecrated you; I appointed you a prophet to the nations.” There are many ways for our children to seek and connect with the Lord … likewise, He will speak to each child in His own way, meeting them right where they are.
There’s an old adage: “Faith is caught and not taught.” Well, that’s not entirely accurate. The truth is, you can teach faith and godliness — but it must be lived out and modeled daily to be effective. As parents, our own faith will always prepare and shape the foundation of our children’s faith.
Parenthood is messy and beautiful and — by far — the most difficult and joyful thing we will ever do. May God give us all wisdom and guidance as we strive to instill a faith that is rooted in holiness, truth and a deep, unwavering love for Him.
“You can teach faith and godliness — but it must be lived out and modeled daily to be effective.”
Summer is a beautiful time to step into creation to learn about the Creator! During these summer months, try some of these popular activities — nature walks, beach trips, service projects — to help initiate and develop faith conversations with your children.
Plant seeds of faith — literally! Gardening is a great way to teach about faith, as plants and faith both have seeds that grow. Jesus Himself used seeds and plants as metaphors for faithful Christian living.
Hand out bottled water (or popsicles) to people you see outside. Workers, walkers and people who are homeless would all appreciate a kind gesture of a cool treat.
Our area has many beautiful walking and hiking trails, for all levels! Use a nature walk or a hike as an opportunity to teach your kids about God’s abundant goodness and creation. Notice the warmth of the sun and the sounds of the animals, and thank God for everything. If you have older kids, talk about the particulars of how amazing aspects of God’s creation are as you walk. With younger children, focus on reminding them that God made everything!
Teach your children about charity. Have them set up a lemonade stand in your driveway or neighborhood, and choose a ministry to support. Proceeds will go to the chosen ministry.
Take time to talk about the important people in your children’s lives and be sure to express that gratitude. Consider grandparents, aunts and uncles, cousins, classmates, teachers, friends, mentors, priests and neighbors. Write a thank you note to each person. Kids can choose a Bible verse that expresses thanks or encouragement for each person. This is a great activity for a rainy summer day.
Create a prayer table in your home. Decorate it with your favorite picture/statue of Jesus, Mary or the saints. If you don’t have a cross, you can make a mosaic one with colored tissue paper and glue and beads — or simply use construction paper and color!
Make a family prayer board and write on it all the people and intentions you’re praying for right now.
Several years ago, I heard a wise Catholic priest tell a group of married couples, “Marriage is a Sacrament, parenting is not. Focus on the Sacrament first, and the children and the family will all fall into place.”
That thought has stayed with me. Yes, there are times in the lives of all parents when their children have to be their main focus. But too many couples build their world around the needs of their children at the expense of their relationship. They wake up one day and discover the intimacy they once shared and the long conversations they once had have been
replaced by plans for who is driving which child where, or what to have for dinner.
Making your marriage relationship a priority is not being selfish. It is critical to keeping the family unit together. As the old saying goes, when the marriage falls apart, so does the family.
One way to make your marriage a priority is to incorporate a weekly or biweekly “date night” into your schedule. “Date night” affords a couple quality time alone together without any distractions in order to reconnect and focus on one another. When a couple deviates from their usual routines to do something fun or out of the ordinary together, they make an unspoken statement to the other: “You matter to me.”
In a study by the National Marriage Project at the University of Virginia entitled
The Date Night Opportunity: What Does Couple Time Tell Us About the Potential Value of Date Nights?, the authors concluded, “Couples who devote time specifically to one another at least once a week are markedly more likely to enjoy high-quality relationships and lower divorce rates, compared to couples who do not.”
The study showed “date night” can foster better communication and commitment between couples, rekindle romantic sparks and reduce stress levels.
Summer is the perfect time to incorporate some “date” activities into your couple routine. It’s a more leisurely time of year and the warmer weather is ideal for enjoying many inexpensive outdoor activities. Some suggestions include: a relaxed bike ride, a walk along the beach, a hike in the woods or a wine tasting tour at a local vineyard or craft beer
brewery. Go out for an ice cream or a burger and fries at an outdoor diner. Wake up early to see the sun rise together and then head out for breakfast. Surprise your spouse with a spontaneous picnic dinner at the beach or lake and watch the sunset holding hands. My favorite is a moonlit walk in the woods behind our home or enjoying an adult beverage while stargazing in front of a backyard campfire.
Set up a hammock in your backyard and spend time cuddling together talking about your dreams or hopes for your relationship. Go shopping together at a local farmers’ market, selecting some fresh vegetables and herbs as the centerpiece for a meal you both prepare. Pull out your favorite board games to play while sitting together on your back porch strung with twinkling lights and some soft romantic music in the background. Go for a leisurely drive through the area’s quintessential New England towns and stop to stroll through some of the quaint shops and boutiques. Pack some snacks and enjoy a double feature at a local drive-in theater.
Whether it comes after the sun goes down or in the glow of sunlight, “date night” doesn’t have to be expensive or require that you even go somewhere. What it requires is spending quality time together alone, away from the children, the telephone and technology. Make the time to do something out of the ordinary with your spouse, unwind, talk about something other than work and family and gaze into each other’s eyes. It will be fun, you might find yourself smiling more and, without realizing it, you will be reaping many longterm benefits for your family by strengthening your marriage.
Reverend George Richards Jr
February 16, 1954 ~ May 11, 2023
Reverend George Richards Jr., JCL, of Middletown, Connecticut, passed away at St Joseph’s Living Center in Windham, CT on Thursday, May 11, 2023 at the age of 69.
Born February 16, 1954 at the Naval Hospital in Groton, CT, he was the beloved son of the late Margaret and George Richards, Sr.
Father George is a graduate of St. Michael’s Parochial School, Pawcatuck(1968); Saint Bernard School, Montville(1972); and Saint Anslem’s College in Manchester, NH(1976).
He earned his (JCL) degree in Canon Law from the Catholic University of America, Washington, DC in 2000.
Father George spent a lifetime devoted to his community, faith and church. He was ordained on May 27, 1995 and served as a Judge for the Diocesan Tribunal. He was Pastor of St. Catherine of Siena parish, Preston and Sts. Peter & Paul, parish, Norwich
He is buried in St. Michael Cemetery, Pawcatuck.
November 20, 1932 – May 6, 2023
Sr. Giselle Brouillard, 90, died on May 6, 2023 at St. Joseph Living Center in Windham, CT.
Born in Waterbury on November 20, 1932, to Antonio and Marie Jeanne (Descoteaux) Brouillard, she entered religious life in Putnam in 1949. She professed her religious vows on August 23, 1952 at the Motherhouse in St. Brieuc, France. She was then known as Sr. Jeanne Antoine.
She was a teacher of elementary education from 1953 until 1987. A local teaching assignment was at St. John School, Plainfield.
In 1989 she became a Certified Geriatric Nursing Assistant until her retirement in 2004. She was part of the Provincial House community from 2007 until she joined the community at St. Joseph Living Center in 2016.
She is buried in St. Mary Cemetery, Putnam.
$1,500
Eternal rest grant unto them, O Lord, and let Your perpetual light shine upon them.
“Clowning,” is defined as “to do silly things and to dress in outrageous costumes in order to make people laugh.” But, Clowning for Christ is a ministry and involves sharing God's love more than laughs.
Clown David, also known as David Kohn, is a retired high school teacher and basketball coach and a parishioner of Good Shepherd parish in Columbia. David was not always a clown, nor was he always a Catholic. God led him by a convoluted path, from a Jewish upbringing to a Catholic clown.
David was born into a nonobservant Jewish household in the Bronx, New York. As a child, he attended synagogue services on the high holidays, but neither weekly Sabbath worship nor daily prayers were in David’s childhood experience. He attended Hebrew school in preparation for his bar mitzvah, but states that learning about his faith was “more of a duty than an act of faith.”
In 1976, while pursuing
a political science degree, David spent one year studying in Austria. There, he met Dorli Kisslinger. Dorli was a devout Catholic, and although David knew very little about Catholicism, he sensed a graciousness in her that was obviously derived from her faith. This piqued his interest. However, after his year was completed, he and Dorli parted ways. He returned to the U.S. to earn a master’s degree in education.
During this time, David had performed some clowning as a hobby, In 1981, after auditioning for the Ringling Brothers and Barnum and Bailey Circus, he was selected to attend their prestigious Clown College. Later, he was selected to tour with the circus. This lasted for one year, until a knee injury caused him to leave the show. Still, the embryo of Clown David had been conceived.
David then began a teaching career, and he also reconnected with Dorli. A series of letters and phone calls culminated in her
visiting Connecticut, and landing a teaching position at UConn. This also marked a period of spiritual transformation for David. Dorli’s faith prompted him to begin reading the Bible and, for the first time, the New Testament. Two subsequent events moved him to enter the Church.
He read a book about neardeath experiences, Heading Towards Omega , by UConn professor Kenneth Ring. He explained that this proved to him, “Beyond a doubt that there is a God, there is a heaven and I needed to start doing something about it.” Then he and Dorli attended a weekend retreat where, at Mass, after witnessing the priest consecrate the bread and wine into the Body and Blood of Jesus, he “realized that I too wanted to participate and receive God’s blessings.”
In short order, he and Dorli were married, and David was baptized. They settled in Salzburg, Austria, where they raised three children. There also, David started his Clown Theater.
Over the next 12 years, his clown troupe performed in more than 2,000 schools and his character, “Clown David,'' became known throughout Austria. His troupe also published a book to teach English to Austrian children, My Clown Papi. The book sold more than 20,000 copies and the proceeds were used to fund “Kids For Kids,” which worked to grant the
The book sold over 20,000 copies and the proceeds were used to fund ‘Kids For Kids’, which was a ‘Make A Wish’ type charity created to grant the wishes of young cancer patients.”
wishes of young cancer patients. David fondly remembers how this charity enabled an 18-yearold dying of cancer to realize her dream of visiting Greece. A few months later, her mother wrote to share that her daughter had succumbed to her cancer, but that the trip made her last days special. “I felt very blessed that God put me in that position — to be able to bring joy, not just during our shows,” David said.
In August 2002, David and Dorli returned to Connecticut, where he resumed his teaching career, until June 2018 when he retired. Their two sons live in Austria, and their recently married daughter, Emily, lives nearby in Connecticut.
David enjoys retirement, sculling on Columbia Lake and splitting wood for his numerous Holz Hausen (beehive) firewood stacks. He states that he is most
grateful to God for giving him the grace to grow in his faith journey, and especially for putting Dorli in his life.
Clown David is also in retirement. David Kohn has no regrets and has left behind that chapter in his life. But, there is one thing he clings to: his clown trailer, which he shipped from Austria and now rests in his backyard. “Sometimes, I feel like Clown David was another person, but the trailer and a portrait of me as a clown that hangs in our living room remind me that Clown David was, and I guess still is, me.”
BY GINA FOSTER
• SISTER MARY CABRINI, S.C.M.C.
Sacred Heart School, Taftville
• LTC (RET) LARRY FITZGERALD
Sacred Heart School, Groton/St. John Paul II
Regional School, Middletown
• JAYNE ANNE VITALE
A devoted teacher and a valuable Catholic education can have such a positive impact on a student’s life. I know this firsthand; my Catholic education left an indelible impression on me. I will never forget the importance of loving thy neighbor, while appreciating friendships, diversity and community. The commitment of those involved in our Catholic school education has been known for years. Recognizing the exceptional work of our educators, in 2010, Bishop Cote established the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Award for Contributions to Catholic Education in the Diocese of Norwich. Three individuals who have made significant contributions to Catholic education in the Diocese of Norwich will be honored this year. The award ceremony will take place at the 13th annual Seton Scholarship Dinner. The proceeds from the Seton Scholarship Dinner will provide our diocesan elementary school students with tuition assistance. This year’s honorees are:
Xavier High School, Middletown
SISTER MARY CABRINI ULASKIEWICZ was born in Chelsea, Massachusetts, and earned her bachelor’s degree in upper elementary education and junior high general science at Eastern Connecticut State University. She has been a teacher for more than 42 years in the Diocese of Norwich and has been teaching at Sacred Heart, Taftville since 1985, as well as serving as vice principal since 1995. Sister Mary Cabrini has been a Sister of Charity of Our Lady Mother of the Church for 44 years. When she began teaching, Sister taught all of the subjects in a self-contained classroom. Later, Sister began to concentrate on specific subjects, which were science and health for grades 5-8 and religion for students in grades 6-8. Sister’s greatest joy in addition to teaching and being a religious sister has been the charitable activities she and her eighth graders have been involved with over the past four decades. One of her favorites is the mission jar in her classroom, into which students make donations when they are able, all of which go to assisting a child in Kenya with his education, food and other needs.
MR. LARRY FITZGERALD is a retired lieutenant colonel of the U. S. Army. He has served
11 years as a Catholic school principal in the Diocese of Norwich. Larry served as principal of Sacred Heart School in Groton from July 1, 2011, to June 30, 2017, and as principal of St. John Paul II Regional Catholic School in Middletown, from July 1, 2017, until his retirement in June 2022. During this time, Larry served on many committees under the Diocesan School Office, including the Curriculum Committee, Professional Development Committee and the Report Card Committee. Larry also served as the principal liaison to the Diocesan School Board for one year. Mr. Fitzgerald holds bachelor’s and master’s degrees in physical education and health from Southern Connecticut State University and a sixth-year certificate in educational administration from Sacred Heart University. Larry is also a graduate of the U.S. Army Command and General Staff College at Ft. Leavenworth, Kansas. Larry resides in Prospect with his wife Carey. They have raised three adult children and have two wonderful grandchildren.
MISS JAYNE ANNE VITALE comes from a family of teachers. She has been teaching for 43 years, and at Xavier High School since 1986. Jayne has always loved school and pursued a variety of academic disciplines. Jayne holds a degree in secondary education with certification in Spanish and French, as well as a master’s degree in history and social studies. Jayne continued with more academic pursuits at Wesleyan University, earning a certificate of advanced studies (sixth year) in visual arts and art history. Jayne, a landscape artist and fine arts instructor, continues to teach both visual arts and art history at Xavier High School. After retiring for a period of one year, Jayne returned for a second career at Xavier on a part-time basis. While Jayne has enjoyed teaching a variety of academic subjects, she now focuses her efforts on art education. An avid traveler and foreign language instructor, Jayne still offers educational trips for students whenever possible.
The 13th annual Seton Scholarship Dinner will be held on Sunday, Nov. 5, 2023, at the Riverhouse at 55 Bridge Rd., Haddam, CT 06438. Sponsorship opportunities, program book ads and tickets are available for purchase by contacting Gina Foster, stewardship coordinator, Diocese of Norwich, at gfoster@norwichdiocese.net or by calling the Office of Development at 860.886.1928, ext. 115. Tickets will also be available at www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org on/or around Aug. 22, 2023. Our event sold out last year. I really appreciate your generous support throughout the past 13 years and hope you can join us in celebrating Sister Mary Cabrini, Larry Fitzgerald and Jayne Anne Vitale.
It was at Hammonasset State Park in the middle of the COVID-19 pandemic when I first felt God’s calling placed upon my heart. My daily walks became windows into the lives of other walkers doing their best to navigate the health crisis and aloneness that piggybacked on the pandemic. Having lost my husband to cancer when I was 35, I knew how lonely “aloneness” could be. Now countless people were experiencing the same. I felt compelled to help bring people back together.
As Jesus’s walk to the cross marked both a significant ending and a monumental beginning, I decided to create an app that would do the same for people, by way of ending loneliness and introducing new friends who loved to walk and talk together. The app is called ZNEEX and it launched during Christmas week of 2022. That was not planned. It just simply worked out that way. I considered it a blessing, as well as further confirmation from God that I was supposed to do this.
ZNEEX is designed to make it easy for people to connect with new friends who they could walk with, predominantly locally and outdoors but also virtually and nationally as well. I wanted to remove the barriers personal and societal realities imposed when it came to meeting new
people. There are all kinds of reasons someone might want that connection, including a new move to the area, a sudden life transition or just plain shyness. Certainly, there are many reasons why someone might be alone, but there should
be an easy solution. ZNEEX was created to be that solution.
Beyond introducing new friends to each other to set up walks together, the app introduces users to other users’ favorite walking spots across the nation. It also integrates all of the bells and whistles a walking app needs, then goes beyond this to even match users who prefer to invite their dogs to walk along, too. It counts calories and steps, reminds users to hydrate and prevents users from ever missing a walk.
The app is available in the Google Play Store and was just approved by the App Store, so it should be available for iPhone soon. iPhone users are signing up on the waiting list at the ZNEEX site (zneexfriendship.com) in the interim.
As summer will drive people to spend more time outdoors, helping people find new friends to walk with will make those sunny days seem even brighter. Sometimes, callings reveal themselves in the most unique of ways. I believe God used my hands and heart to fashion this app to help bring His flock back together.
WELLINGTON is a popular blogger, TED speaker, author and awardwinning children’s television creator. She is the mother of five children and a member of St. John Church in Old Saybrook.
I considered it a blessing, as well as further confirmation from God that I was supposed to do this.”
The Most Reverend Bishop Michael Cote honored several boy and girl Scouts throughout the Norwich Diocese for their achievements in completing the requirement for several Catholic Scouting awards. The awards were presented during a Scouting Religious Award and Recognition Ceremony on Sunday, April 23 at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich.
During the Liturgy of the Word segment of the awards ceremony, Bishop Cote referenced the Gospel story of Zacchaeus, a man of small stature who climbed a tree to see Jesus more clearly. Noting that most Scouts had probably climbed trees themselves at some point in their lives just like Zacchaeus, Bishop Cote encouraged them to be like Zacchaeus and always search for Christ in their lives.
Later in the ceremony, Bishop Cote blessed the Scouting medals, emblems, and awards before presenting them to the Scouts.
Scouts throughout the diocese are eligible to earn Catholic Religious Emblem Awards appropriate for their rank or age. In order to earn an emblem award, younger Scouts must complete a workbook with their family, and for older Scouts, with a trained Scout counselor. As this was the first awards ceremony since the beginning of the pandemic, awards were given to Scouts who had both completed requirements this year and in the last three years.
Seven Scouts in 2023 and
six Scouts over the past three years received the Light of Christ Award. This award goes to Tiger Cubs and Wolf Scouts who complete five family-oriented projects that help a Scout develop a personal relationship with Jesus.
Six Scouts in 2023 and nine Scouts over the past three years received the Parvuli Dei award, which translates to “Children of God.” This award helps Scouts in third through fifth grades discover the presence of God in their daily lives and also develop a good and positive self-image through contributions they make to a group or community.
One Scout in 2023 and five Scouts over the past three years received the Ad Altare Dei award, which translates to “To The Altar of God.” This award is for Scouts who have completed 6th Grade and have been active in their troop for over six months. Emphasis is placed on the use of Scripture and the celebration of the sacraments.
Three high school-aged Scouts in 2023 and four Scouts over the past three years received the Pope Pius XII medal. The award calls Scouts to explore how the Lord is calling them to serve the Church and their neighbor as they near adulthood. To receive both this and the Ad Altare Dei awards, a Scout must attend a Diocesan Scout Retreat and pass a Scout Board of Review.
Three Scouts in 2023 and three Scouts in 2021 have earned the Pillars of Faith award. This award gives special recognition to those Scouts who have earned all four of the Catholic Scouting emblems, which demonstrates tremendous commitment to their Catholic faith.
The awards program is under the auspices of the Diocesan Catholic Committee on Scouting headed by its Chairwoman, Pamela Plasse and Scout Chaplain Fr. Martin Noe.
Congratulations to all of our 2023 Catholic Scouting Award recipients!
We were recently discussing some of our favorite books. A number of them are straight up spiritual/religious books, while others weave the Gospel message more covertly, providing
A hope-filled story about a young couple’s lost dream and moving forward with a new dream. This book is a great reminder that if we have faith in God’s providence, all good things will happen on God’s time, not ours.
A modern re-telling of the biblical Book of Tobit. It takes place in the Depression era in North Carolina. This book is a testament to the human spirit and good overcoming evil.
The story is set in South Boston, where a neighborhood priest watches an unlikely friendship develop between a teenager of color and an Italian senior who share an uncommon history. This book highlights God’s intervention at unexpected times and in unexpected ways.
A warmly comforting tale of a grieving mother, a dissatisfied handyman and an abbot, whose lives intersect and are gently changed. A simple story about complicated people whose lives need God for direction and healing.
Classic satire in defense of the Christian faith consisting of a series of letters in which Screwtape, an experienced devil, instructs his young charge, Wormwood, on effective strategies for tempting the human being assigned to him and making sure he continues on a steady path toward damnation.
by Rev. Ronald Rolheiser
If I were to teach a beginners class on spirituality, this would be required reading. Father Rolheiser describes spirituality in terms
And finally, if you are feeling very ambitious and want to plunge into a read that will cause you to reread, question and think, this is the book for you:
This is a spiritual read which highlights the richness of tradition in relation to our Catholic celebration of the Eucharist. It will leave you with a greater understanding of the gift of the Eucharist.
FOOTNOTE: You have to fight the urge to give up on this book after a few chapters. It leaves you feeling woefully inadequate as a believer at times, but as you continue the read, it will become more apparent how this book will change your understanding of the Eucharist forever.
accessible to everyone. He asserts that our desire/ passion is our spirituality and that everyone has one, “whether it is life-giving or destructive.” He explores and compares the passion/fire in Janis Joplin, Princess Diana and Mother Theresa, while helping us tap into our own spirituality, including how we must be the flesh that brings action to our prayers.
And on the heavier side, I would recommend rereading a book that most of us probably were assigned to read as a student:
A young girl’s coming-of-age story woven into a darker drama about the roots and consequences of racism and prejudice, probing how good and evil can coexist within a single community or individual.
The Great Divorce by C.S. Lewis
A Good Man is Hard to Find by Flannery O’Connor
The Story of a Soul by St. Therese of Lisieux
The Seven Storey Mountain by Thomas Merton
The Imitation of Christ by Thomas à Kempis
SAINT MARY’S CHURCH - Baltic, CT 70 West Main Street - Baltic, CT
2023 DATES & TIMES
Early Bird Shopping ($10 Admission)
Thursday, July 20 - 5 PM to 8 PM
Friday, July 21 - 9 AM to 3 PM
Saturday, July 22 - 9 AM to 2 PM
Friday, July 28 - 9 AM to 3 PM
Saturday, July 29 - 9 AM to 2 PM
FREE ADMISSION on all days except Thursday, July 20 July 29
LAST DAY BARGAINS!
The Foundation has supported Catholic Education at Saint John School from Pre-K to Grade 8 since 2014
SCAN the QR code
“The Most Blessed Virgin Mary, when the course of her earthly life was completed, was taken up body and soul into the glory of heaven, where she already shares in the glory of her Son's resurrection, anticipating the resurrection of all members of His Body.” (Catechism of the Catholic Church 974)
The magazine of the Catholic Diocese of Norwich
PUBLISHER
Most Reverend
Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishop of Norwich 860.887.9294
EDITORIAL OFFICE
25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Wayne Gignac 860.886.1281 wgignac@norwichdiocese.net
MARKETING/PRODUCTION MANAGER
Deacon Benedict LoCasto 860.887.3933 deaconlocasto@norwichdiocese.net
MORGAN MARTENS is a lifelong member of the Diocese of Norwich and strives to bring the light of Christ to everyone she encounters.
The feast of the Assumption celebrates the “taking up” of Our Lady into heaven’s light and glory. As the catechism above states, Mary’s immaculately united body and soul were assumed. Mary’s body and soul were deemed worthy of eternity with God. Because she needed no further perfecting (that happens when you’re immaculately conceived), she was taken directly into heaven. The reality that Mary, Queen of the Universe and Queen of Heaven reigns body and soul can change our lives. Our Lady, fully human and fully alive, is awaiting our arrival in heaven. She awaits the arrival of our bodies and souls.
It tends to be easier for us to see how our souls are destined for heaven. The deep, constant restlessness many of us feel shows us that our souls yearn for something more. Death is not the end of our souls. Well, death is not the end of our bodies either. In imitation of Mary, we are destined to live body and soul in heaven. Although we are in need of perfection and integration (of body and soul) before our arrival to heaven, she leads the way and intercedes for us while we’re on the journey. Our bodies are good, too.
Both body and soul are good and worthy of our care, but both are also made to inform each other. Integration is the word that comes to mind. Our bodies inform our souls and our souls inform our bodies. What we do with our bodies impacts our souls and vice versa. You get the picture. This synchronization of our body and soul is the process of integration. We need help along the way though. Real help.
Jesus comes to help us, body and soul, in the Eucharist. He remains with us, as He promised through the resurrection. Jesus waits for us to bring our restless, dis-integrated selves to Him to let Him restore them. As we let Him work on us in the silence of Eucharistic adoration, we become more like Our Lady. Our bodies and souls become more and more ready for heaven; more and more integrated.
Jesus in the Eucharist, perfectly united, perfectly Himself, aches for us to bring our restless souls and bodies to Him. He and Our Lady will show us who we are made to be.
Our Lady, Queen of Heaven and Earth, pray for us.
SENIOR WRITER/SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Ryan Blessing 860.887.3933 rblessing@norwichdiocese.net
WEB SPECIALIST/WRITER
Morgan Martens 860.887.3933 mmartens@norwichdiocese.net
THEOLOGICAL ADVISER
Very Reverend Ted F. Tumicki, S.T.L., J.C.L., J.V. 860.887.9294
MAGAZINE LAYOUT & DESIGN
Over the years sitting in the pews, I have heard some wonderful homilies — and, on occasion, some not so wonderful. Now that I have the honor of preaching as a deacon at Mass, I try my best to break open the Scriptures and let the Holy Spirit guide me in nourishing God’s people.
I am in no way a great homilist, and I have only been preaching for the last five years since my ordination. The homily is ordinarily given by the priest celebrant, but as a deacon I may be given the occasion to preach. On those occasions, I usually start with the same routine of preparation.
DEACON DAN D’AMELIOOn the Monday before I am to preach, I read all the Scriptures for the following Sunday’s Mass. I spend some time meditating on the readings, contemplating them and seeing where the Holy Spirit guides me to a certain phrase or theme. I usually read them again, this time reading the chapters before and after, to get the context of the passages on which I am to preach. Sometimes, I am inspired right away to put pen to paper. Other times, I must do more research. Over the next day or two, I consult books in my library or commentaries that I find online about the readings. By then, I have started
formulating something in my mind and can begin writing.
I’ve been told by parishioners that they appreciate it when I mention my family, or the actions of my sons and grandsons, in my homilies. I guess they can relate to that. I usually try to include a story or two, since that is how Jesus preached, using parables and stories to engage the faithful. As my homiletic teacher often said, “You don’t want people to start tuning out and working on their shopping list.”
She will often make suggestions or ask me to explain something that wasn’t clear. It is great having someone else to consult before finalizing the text.
By Thursday or Friday, I read and reread my words and continue to pray over them before I finally print out my homily. I still print out my homilies and read them from the ambo. I have not become comfortable enough to preach without reading, or to preach while in front of the sanctuary. Maybe someday that will come, but for now I prefer to be at the ambo.
It is an amazing feeling every time I preach. I feel that it is not me that is speaking, but that it is the Holy Spirit speaking through me. I have spoken in public before many times, but it is not the same feeling as I get when preaching the Word of God.
Usually by Wednesday, I have the first draft written. I try to keep my homilies to between seven and 10 minutes, which usually works out to about 1,000 words. Once I have my first draft, I will read it to my wife, who is my best critic and editor.
I hope that this helps you to appreciate all that priests and deacons do to prepare homilies for Mass. I hope and pray that you can find something in each homily that inspires you and brings the reality of God into your life. As Pope Francis stated in Evangelii Gaudium, “The homily can actually be an intense and happy experience of the Spirit, a consoling encounter with God’s word, a constant source of renewal and growth.”
“You don’t want people to start tuning out and working on their shopping list.”
Join us at The Cathedral of St. Patrick for two momentous celebrations of faith and service!
Mark your calendar for the Transitional Diaconate Ordination on Saturday, June 3, 2023, at 10:30 am. Be inspired as three devoted men take a significant step towards their priesthood journey. Their unwavering commitment and spiritual preparation will be on display during this sacred ceremony.
Then, save the date for the Permanent Diaconate Ordination on July 8, 2023, at 10:30 am. Witness the culmination of years of formation and discernment as five dedicated men, balancing families and careers, embrace their vocation to serve the Church in a unique and profound way.
Saturday, June 3, 2023,10:30 am.
The Cathedral of St. Patrick provides a beautiful and reverent setting for these joyous occasions.
Join Bishop Michael R. Cote, along with clergy, family, and friends, as he ordains these extraordinary individuals who will play vital roles in our faith community.
Don't miss this opportunity to be part of something truly extraordinary. Come and support those who have answered God's call to serve as deacons in the Roman Catholic Church.
See you at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich!
Livestream of the ordinations can be viewed at NorwichDiocese.org/Masses
Saturday, July 8, 2023, 10:30 am.
Sunday, July 30
Blessing of the Fleet
St. Mary, Stonington Borough
10:30 AM Mass followed by procession and Blessing
Monday-Friday, August 7-11
Living in God's Kingdom
Summer Vacation Camp
St. Mary, Groton
9:00 AM to 12:00 PM
Contact 860-445-1446 for Registration Form
Thursday, June 22
Holy Hour for Vocations
Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich
6:00 PM
Monday-Friday, July 10-14
The Mass Comes Alive
Summer Vacation Camp
Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry
8:30 AM to 12:00 PM
Contact 860-464-7251 for Registration Form
Thursday, July 20
Holy Hour for Vocations
St. Mark, Westbrook
6:00 PM
St. Mary Church/St. Joseph School, Baltic Annual Rummage Sale
Early Bird Sale - 5:00 PM ~ 8:00 PM
See Ad on pg. 19 for specific Dates and Times
Sunday, August 13
Saint Brendan the Navigator Community Assunta Mass/Feast of the Assumption
St. Mary, Star of the Sea Church, New London
9:30 AM Mass followed by a procession and Blessing of the Sick. Celebration continues with lunch (for purchase)
12:00 PM - 3:00 PM at St. Paul Church, Waterford
Thursday, August 17
Holy Hour for Vocations
St. Joseph, Occum
6:00 PM
"IT'S BACK!" HUGE indoor/outdoor Rummage Sale. Early Bird shopping-7/ 20-$10 admission 5-8. Free admission all other days. Accepting donations through July 15th. Rain or shine!
