Four County Catholic December 2019

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

A thrill of

Hope the weary world

Rejoices

In This Issue

Page

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

9 14 30 31

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God’s Christmas Gift to Us

The Beating Heart of One Ministry Sharing the Reason for the Season

Volume 31 • Number 11 • DECEMBER 2019

­ESTABLISHED IN 1989 AND PUBLISHED EACH MONTH EXCEPT JULY. PUBLISHER

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishop of Norwich EDITORIAL OFFICE

25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-4419

Fax 860.859.1253

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Wayne Gignac, 860.886.1281

wgignac@norwichdiocese.net

ADVERTISING SALES/PRODUCTION MANAGER

Meredith Vernott, 860.887.3933 c ommeredith@norwichdiocese.net SENIOR WRITER/SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER

Ryan Blessing, 860.887.3933 rblessing@norwichdiocese.net THEOLOGICAL ADVISOR

Very Reverend Ted F. Tumicki, S.T.L., J.C.L., J.V. 860.887.9294 PRINTING/LAYOUT

Christmas Prayer

The Hartford Courant, 285 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 060115 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING DEADLINES

The deadline for advertising and editorial is the first Monday of the previous month. Articles limited to 500-word max; letters to the editor limited to 200-word max and must include name, address and phone number for verification. Email photos as JPEG attachments and MS Word copy to editorial@norwichdiocese.net. Publication not guaranteed. The Editor reserves the right to reject, omit or edit all editorial and advertising copy. Published opinions and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of this newspaper.

On the Cover

POSTMASTER - SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Four County Catholic, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-4419 Four County Catholic Issue 11 December (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-4419.

Periodicals postage paid in Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional mailing offices.

The birth of Jesus stands as a symbol of hope for all time. The Christmas Crèche that we display in our homes, workplaces, schools and hospitals Is a wonderful sign of this hope.

This Christmas we offer prayers and sing praises to God for all the gifts we have been given but also to act on the teachings of Jesus to bring hope to all.

Discover more at

NorwichDiocese.org © Copyright 2019, Diocese of Norwich. All rights reserved.

No content may be reproduced without expressed consent.

Periodical Postage paid at Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional offices.

Podemos ayudar

We Can Help 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 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

860.887.9294

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

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 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.

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

Christmas Message 2019 "Let us go, then, to Bethlehem to see this thing that has taken place, which the Lord has made known to us."

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, Each year as we commemorate the birth of the Lord Jesus at Christmas, it is important for us to encounter the mystery and importance of the Lord’s Incarnation with renewed wonder, gratitude and love. In calling to mind that first Christmas, so lovingly evoked by the manger scenes set up in our parishes and homes, it can be easy to overlook the presence of the humble shepherds of Bethlehem. It was these shepherds who were the first both to hear and respond to the Good News of the birth of the Savior, proclaimed to them by the Angels in their joyful hymn of praise: "Glory to God in the highest, and on earth peace to those on whom His favor rests." (Luke 2:14) As the angels returned to Heaven and the unadorned reality of that first Christmas began to dawn upon them with the first light of morning, they left their flocks and set out in haste to encounter the infant Lord Jesus in the quiet stillness of the manger.

about the true meaning and powerful reality of Christmas. All too often, despite our best intentions during Advent, we get so caught up in the commercialization of the season that we fail to express our gratitude for the God who, in the humble stillness of that night long ago, emptied himself completely into the world to become Emmanuel, God with us. By His birth, life, death and resurrection, Jesus has won a share in the very life of God for those who believe. This, dear brothers and sisters, is the true and ultimate gift that we receive at Christmas! The only gift the Lord asks in return is that we share God's complete, total, life-giving love with others, especially the poor, the marginalized, the outcast and forgotten.

As we again recall the great mystery of God’s love this Christmas, may we, like the shepherds of old, approach the manger and adore our infant King with hearts full of gratitude. Then, let us allow His transformative love we have encountered to work through us as His disciples to bring hope, peace and joy to our world today.

The scene depicted by St. Luke is a stark one: there with the Blessed Mother and Saint Joseph, we find the Only Begotten Son of the Eternal Father, the Word made flesh, lying in a feeding trough; the King of the Universe, the May you, your families and loved ones have a truly Savior, announced by the angels as both Messiah and Lord, surrounded merry Christmas and a New Year filled with God’s only by humble shepherds and farm animals. The poignant humility of blessings!

Jesus' birth stands in contrast to the transformative power of the Incarnation.

There, in the stable of Bethlehem we encounter a child who would embody the complete, all-encompassing and limitless nature of God's love. In the infant Jesus, God reaches down into the messiness of our human existence, embraces our poverty and shares in our suffering, even to the point of Sincerely yours in Christ, sacrificing his very life on the cross to save us from our sins. It is in this supreme sacrifice, foreshadowed even at His birth, that we find the ultimate expression of God's love for all humanity.

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote D.D. It is important for us also to make this mystical journey to the manger each Bishop of Norwich year, following the example of the shepherds, in order to remind ourselves

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

(Luke 2:15b)

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LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

Mensaje de Navidad 2019

"Vamos a Belén y veamos ese acontecimiento que el Señor nos ha anunciado" DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo,

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(Lucas 2: 15b)

Mientras conmemoramos cada año, en Navidad, el nacimiento del Señor Jesús, es importante que encontremos el misterio y la importancia de la Encarnación del Señor con asombro renovado, gratitud y amor. Al recordar tan amorosamente esa primera Navidad, evocada por las escenas del pesebre establecidas en nuestras parroquias y hogares, puede ser fácil pasar por alto la presencia de los humildes pastores de Belén. Estos pastores fueron los primeros en escuchar y responder a la Buena Nueva del nacimiento del Salvador, proclamada por los ángeles en su alegre himno de alabanza: “Gloria a Dios en el cielo y paz en la tierra a los hombres que él ama” (Lucas 2:14). Cuando los ángeles regresaron al cielo y la realidad sin adornos de esa primera Navidad comenzó a amanecer sobre ellos con la primera luz de la mañana, dejaron sus rebaños y se apresuraron a encontrarse con el niño Jesús en el silencio y quietud del pesebre.

La escena representada por San Lucas es rígida: allí con la Santísima Madre y San José, encontramos al Hijo Unigénito del Padre Eterno, el Verbo hecho carne, acostado en un pesebre; El Rey del Universo, el Salvador, anunciado por los ángeles como Mesías y Señor, rodeado solo de humildes pastores y animales de granja. La conmovedora humildad del nacimiento de Jesús contrasta con el poder transformador de la Encarnación. Allí, en el establo de Belén, nos encontramos con un niño que encarna la naturaleza completa, e ilimitada del amor de Dios. En el niño Jesús, Dios se adentra en el desorden de nuestra existencia humana, abraza nuestra pobreza y comparte nuestro sufrimiento, hasta el punto de sacrificar su vida en la cruz para salvarnos de nuestros pecados. Es en este sacrificio supremo, presagiado incluso desde su nacimiento, que encontramos la máxima expresión del amor de Dios por toda la humanidad.

También es importante para nosotros, cada año, hacer este recorrido místico al pesebre siguiendo el ejemplo de los pastores, para recordarnos el verdadero significado y la poderosa realidad de la Navidad. A pesar

de nuestras mejores intenciones durante el Adviento, con demasiada frecuencia, nos vemos tan atrapados en la comercialización de la temporada que no podemos expresar nuestra gratitud por el Dios que, en la humilde quietud de esa noche hace mucho tiempo, se vació por completo en el mundo. para convertirse en Emanuel, Dios con nosotros. Jesús, JUAN por su nacimiento, vida, muerte y resurrección, ha10:10 ganado para aquellos que creen, una participación en la vida misma de Dios. ¡Esto, queridos hermanos y hermanas, es el verdadero y último regalo que recibimos en Navidad! El único regalo que el Señor pide a cambio es que compartamos con los demás, especialmente con los pobres, los marginados y los olvidados, el amor de Dios completo, total y vivificante.

Mientras recordamos nuevamente en esta Navidad, el gran misterio del amor de Dios que, como los pastores de antaño, nos acerquemos al pesebre y adoremos a nuestro infante Rey con corazones llenos de gratitud. Luego, permitamos que su amor transformador que hemos encontrado trabaje a través de nosotros como sus discípulos para traer esperanza, paz y alegría a nuestro mundo de hoy. ¡Que ustedes, sus familias y seres queridos tengan una Navidad verdaderamente feliz y un Año Nuevo lleno de las bendiciones de Dios!

Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo,

Reverendísimo Michael R. Cote, D.D. Obispo de Norwich

We pray for men to answer the call to be instruments of God’s grace as priests of Jesus Christ.

Mr. Normand Laflamme 3rd Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Mr. Larry Barile 3rd Year Theology Pope St. John XXIII Weston, Massachusetts

Vocations Corner Father Gregory Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations

Happy Advent to all. We are a few weeks away from the Christmas season and time to transition into 2020! It seems like just a few weeks ago our seminarians were all heading back to seminary for their continued formation and academic work. They will shortly be arriving home for the holidays; either down in Colombia or spread across Eastern Connecticut.

Our annual Advent Gift Card drive for seminarians is going on across the diocese. An early thank you to all who have picked up a name of a seminarian from your parish and plan to send in a gift card on their behalf. It really does assist them, and they greatly appreciate your thoughtfulness and kindness.

Recently, both Dharen and Normand received candidacy at Mount St. Mary Seminary. This means that they have publicly acknowledged that they freely have asked and expressed their willingness to go forward to both ordination to diaconate and ultimately

Holy Priesthood. Normand joins now with Larry, who is studying at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary in Weston, Massachusetts, as they both anticipate a letter of call to receive ordination to transitional diaconate.

Usually Bishop Cote will send out his letter of call later in early spring.

If both Normand and Larry receive such a letter, the date chosen for their diaconate ordination is presently scheduled for May 28, 2020. It is an exciting time for them and for Deacon Mike who also awaits a call letter for Priestly Ordination. His date would be June 27, 2020.

At the end of the month I ask for your prayers as I travel once again to the FOCUS National SLS convention.

New Year’s week we will be in Phoenix, Arizona. I am not sure how many UCONN students will be attending, but please pray that our work at UCONN will continue to bring many priestly and religious vocations to the

Mr. Jacob Ramos 2nd YearTheology Mount St. Mary’s, Emmitsburg, MD

MONTHLY

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

Holy Hour Mr. Dharen Brochero 1st Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Church here in Eastern Connecticut and throughout the whole Church.

On December 19th, please join us as we pray for an increase of priestly and consecrated religious vocations at our Monthly Holy Hour with Bishop Cote.

This month it is at Sacred Heart Church in Taftville. If you know someone in your circle who you think would make a great priest for the Church, please pray for them and if given an opportunity, personally encourage them to think and pray about it. The seasons of Advent and Christmas are both wonderful times of grace, when our Lord can place certain things in young people’s hearts and they “hear the call.”

May Christmas be a season of true joy, peace and grace for each of you, your loved ones and for the family of God. May we be blessed this coming new year with many more vocations to the priesthood and consecrated religious life for the Diocese of Norwich.

for Vocations

MR. ALEXANDER PANDOLFE 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Mr. Julian Cuervo 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Mr. Eric Hosmer 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Our Diocese

Deacon Michael Bovino 4th Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Ruben Sanchez 1st Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

DECEMBER 19th Sacred Heart Church, Taftville 6pm

JANUARY 16th 2020 Saint Mary, Jewett City 6pm

www.God-Calls.com

Mark Johnson 1st Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

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Ministries Still Need Help

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

A

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mericans are some of the most generous people in the world, giving much time and money to those organizations that they best identify with and feel are the worthiest of their support.

As the year comes to an end, some of us look back and realize that although we had intended to volunteer our time or make a charitable gift to our favorite organization, the business of daily life prevented us from doing so.

While the Annual Catholic Appeal has not yet reached its goal, and the needs of our community are increasing, now would be a good time for each one of us to consider making a gift before the year ends.

By making a donation to the Annual Catholic Appeal, donors are assured that their dollars will be efficiently and effectively used to assist those in our community. It could be in the form of education and support of our seminarians, spiritual renewal, evangelization of our youth, food at one of our community ministries, behavioral counseling and emergency basic needs at Catholic Charities, to touch on only a few of our many ACA supported ministries.

While you consider where your heart lies and if you are able to make a gift to the ACA, it would be helpful to also contemplate the various gifting methods:  Making charitable distributions

directly to qualified charities such as the ACA from your IRA if you are 70 ½ and older, up to $100,000 per year on a tax-free basis.

Transfers are not taxed and count towards your annual Required Minimum Distribution.  Donating appreciated stock and securities. You will be entitled to a charitable deduction equal to the fair market value of the donated stocks and securities, subject to limitation based upon your adjusted gross income. In addition, you will avoid income tax on the capital gain of those stocks and securities while supporting the mission of your favorite Diocesan organization.  Cashing in expired U.S. savings bonds. Check to see if the series savings bonds you have tucked away have recently reached “final maturity” and no longer pay interest. Contributing the proceeds from these bonds to your favorite Diocesan organization will produce a charitable deduction.  Thinking about being creative with your giving. If you no longer need the proceeds of your life insurance policy because your children are grown, you can change the beneficiary or gift a paid-up policy to your favorite Diocesan organization.  Adding the Diocese as a beneficiary of your retirement plan.

 Amending your will to include

the ACA or your favorite Diocesan organization as a beneficiary. You may want to leave specific assets or a percentage of your estate to your parish, school, or other Diocesan ministry.  Establishing an endowment within the Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Norwich to support your chosen Diocesan entity or contribute to one of the 34 existing endowment funds currently being managed by the Catholic Foundation.

For more information on making a gift to the ACA, Hand in Hand with

All God’s Children, or about any of the other gifting opportunities described above, please feel free to contact me, Mary Ellen Mahoney, Director, Office of Development at memahoney@ norwichdiocese.net, (860) 8861928, ext. 113, or go online at NorwichDioceseDevelopment. org. As always, consult with your tax professional, financial advisor and/or attorney before making any decisions.

TELEVISION MASS

DECEMBER 11

10:00am

Father Brian Maxwell Channel 11, WCCT Channel 20, WTXX Channel 59, WCTX

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

See the latest list of retreats on NorwichDiocese.org

Christmas Mass Times Y

An Invitation to a Truly Sensory Experience Christmas Eve Midnight Mass

By Wayne Gignac

Christmas Eve:

4pm Vigil Mass, Midnight Mass Christmas Music begins at 11:30PM

Christmas Day

7:30am, 9am, 10:30am 5pm

familiar carols approximately 30 minutes prior to the start of Mass.

Should circumstances prevent you from attending this Mass, the Communications Office is once again partnering with radio stations WICH and WCTY to broadcast the Mass in its entirety. It also can be heard anywhere in the world via a livestream provided by WCTY.com.

We are truly blessed for this ongoing gift.

The beauty of the cathedral can be experienced year-round and will remain fully decorated until the Solemnity of the Epiphany January 5, 2020. Masses are daily 7am and noon.

A visit to the Cathedral of Saint Patrick is a perfect addition to your Christmas celebration.

MIDNIGHT MASS

at The Cathedral of St. Patrick Streaming live on WCTY.com Airing on WICH 1310AM and WCTY 97.7FM Tune in early for Christmas Carols

Our Diocese

at the Cathedral of St. Patrick

ou are invited to experience the beauty, the wonder, and the inspiration of Christmas at the Mass at Midnight in the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Norwich. If you’ve never been before, know that all your senses will be engaged.

Upon walking up to the center doors of the cathedral, your eyes will be greeted by two large wreaths.

This visual beauty spills out from the inside, where you will see the beautifully restored cathedral resplendent with the decorations that tell the glory of this day. It is a gift, given to us by the generations of parishioners who have walked through these doors.

Plan on arriving early, as the cathedral choir begins singing

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Bishop Congratulates CCHD Grant Recipients WHY SHOULD YOU CHOOSE A CATHOLIC CEMETERY? The Code of Canon Law of the Catholic Church defines only two places as being sacred: the Church building where Jesus resides in the tabernacle; and the Catholic Cemetery which is an expression of faith and an extension of the parish community. Catholic Cemeteries are both a consolation to the bereaved and an inspiration to the living.

The recipients help provide vital services and initiatives to help lift the lives of low income individuals and families in our communities. The Catholic Campaign for Human Development is the domestic anti-poverty program of the U.S. Catholic Bishops, working to carry out the mission of Jesus Christ, supported generously by parishioners across the Diocese of Norwich.

ST. MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY Community Mausoleum Available 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich • 860-887-1019 SACRED HEART CEMETERY Harland Road, Taftville • 860-887-1019

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

ST. PATRICK CEMETERY Depot Road, Uncasville • 860-887-1019

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ST. MARY CEMETERY Community Mausoleum Available 600 Jefferson Ave, New London • 860-443-3465 RESURRECTION CEMETERY Route 145, Westbrook • 860-443-3465 SACRED HEART CEMETERY Wauregan Road, Wauregan • 860-887-1019 ALL HALLOWS CEMETERY Green Hallow Road, Moosup • 860-887-1019

Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich CT 06360 860-887-1019

Clergy Appointment The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy appointment in the Diocese of Norwich:

Reverend Roy Parayil, MS New to the Diocese, to Parochial Vicar, Saint James Church, Danielson.

Father Peter J. Langevin, Chancellor

Pictured from left to right- Bishop Michael R. Cote, D.D. with this year's Catholic Campaign for Human Development grant recipients. Edward Stolz-Birthright of Greater Norwich, Inc., Ann Perrott-New Life Prison Ministry, Cara-Lynn Turner-Martin House, Inc., Bishop Michael R. Cote, Maryellen Shuckerow-St. Vincent de Paul Place, Middletown, Annette Eldridge- Community of Hope, Inc., Laura and Nathan Michaud-MALTA, INC., Groton.

God’s Christmas Gifts to Us Faith, Hope, Love, and Charity

By Susan Wallace

M

In the upcoming season of faith, hope, love, and charity, please remember your brothers and sisters in Haiti and know that your gifts make a difference in the lives of Haitian children and their families.

More importantly, sharing your gifts will make a difference within you.

There are many worthwhile ministries to help our brothers and sisters here and throughout the world. Your diocesan ministry, Outreach to Haiti, is one of them.

I hope in the coming season when we are reminded of God’s great love for us, we remember our brothers and sisters who need our support and our prayers. God bless you! care and comfort to some of God’s poorest children. In sharing our love and providing charity to our brothers and sisters in Haiti, we too are receiving gifts. As St. Vincent de Paul teaches, “The love of the poor becomes the medicine of the soul.”

As Haiti again faces challenges of governance and a breakdown in civil society, it is important for us to remember we serve God. In serving God, we may not always see the long-range effects of our work, but we see the small ones such as a child smiling because he is feeling better after being cured of his illness. In that moment, we experience God’s gifts of faith, hope, love, and charity.

Having been to Haiti in June and

September, I can promise you our ministry is helping the sick who visit our medical clinic, restoring health to young children and expectant mothers who were severely

“The love of the poor

becomes the medicine of the soul.”

malnourished, giving vaccinations to adults and children to prevent diseases, and educating young people who will become the future leaders of Haiti. Our Haitian staff is working hard to keep the doors open to help all who knock asking for aid.

Our ministry is a physical reminder to our Haitian brothers and sisters of God’s gifts to all of us – faith, hope, love and charity. Why do we do this?

Some say because the need is great. I say it is because God asks us.

Our Diocese

ost of us have been blessed with cherished memories of celebrating Thanksgiving with family, friends and loved ones. While our traditions may vary, sharing love and giving thanks are the foundations which usher in December and the season of gift-giving.

Through the birth of God’s only son, we receive renewed gifts of faith, hope, love, and charity. These virtuous gifts are within each of us and are to be used by us, to help others come to know God’s great love for each of us and to keep us on the road to salvation.

Faith, hope, love, and charity are the gifts we use to face seemingly insurmountable challenges such as helping to feed the hungry, care for the sick and aid the downtrodden throughout the world. More than 38 years ago, Lay Catholics in the Diocese of Norwich along with their shepherd, Bishop Reilly, brought these gifts with them when they visited Haiti, which sits on our country’s doorstep. This visit led to the Diocese of Norwich forming its ministry Outreach to Haiti.

As you may know, Haiti is the poorest and the most densely populated country in the Western Hemisphere. It is a small country that occupies one-third of the Island of Hispaniola, while the Dominican Republic occupies the remaining two-thirds of the island.

Catholicism has been the predominant religion, and most Haitians today are Catholic. Thanks to that first trip in 1981, our Diocese has been walking with our Haitian brothers and sisters, providing

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Hope

Help Us Support Children In Need in Eastern CT.

th th THANK ANNIVERSARY SPONSOR THANKYOU YOUTO TOOUR OUR9595 ANNIVERSARY SPONSOR Stephenand andPatricia Patricia Coan Stephen Coan

Merry Christmas

THANKYOU YOUTO TOOUR OURGALA GALA SPONSORS THANK SPONSORS To purchased aa ticket, ticket, donated donatedor orpurchased purchasedaa Michaeland andAngela Angela Arnold To those that purchased Michael Arnold Catholic Charities is currently collecting new silent auction item, purchased a Flame of Remembrance, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Tessman silent auction item, purchased a Flame of Remembrance, Mr. and Mrs. Edward Tessman simply made made donation CatholicCharities Charities;thank thank Mr.and andMrs. Mrs. Kenneth Capano, and unwrapped toys or Capano, gift cards or simply aa donation Catholic Charities; Mr. Kenneth Sr.Sr. for children Ed or Tessman and the staff at toto Catholic you!

Ms.Jacqueline JacquelineKeller Keller you! agesMs. 1-15 until Dec ember 7th Ms.Christine Christine Jackel Catholic Charities Locations Ms. Jackel 7KH HYHQLQJ VLJQLILHG D ´1HZ %HJLQQLQJµ IRU &DWKROLF Mr.Everest EverestBrustolon Brustolon 7KH HYHQLQJ VLJQLILHG D ´1HZ %HJLQQLQJµ IRU &DWKROLF Mr. All donations can be dropped Charities and could not have been possible without your Chelsea Groton Bankoff at our Norwich Charities and could not have been possible without your Chelsea Groton Bank Willimantic Middletown New London Norwich (Main Office) location, 331 Main support.

Dime BankStreet, Norwich support.

Dime Bank 331 Main Street 88 Jackson Street 151 Broad Street 28 Huntington Street 860-889-8346 ext 266 ´,W was an amazing night and celebration, allowing Catholic Charities to honor those in our community who support our organization through their 860-889-8346 860-423-7065 860-346-0060 860-443-5328 20 ´,W was an amazing night and celebration, allowing Catholic Charities to honor those in our community who support our organization through their 20 hard word and unselfish dedication. We are truly blessed.µ said Edward J. Tessman, Executive Director hard word and unselfish dedication. We are truly blessed.µ said Edward J. Tessman, Executive Director 10 331 Main Street, Norwich, Connecticut 06360 / 860.889.8346 / www.ccfsn.org 331 Main Street, Norwich, Connecticut 06360 / 860.889.8346 / www.ccfsn.org

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

May you have 9 5 the gift of faith, the blessing of hope and the peace of HisCatholic loveCharities at Christmas would Charities would like like to tothank thankeveryone everyonewho who attended 95 Anniversary Gala and supported the our 95 Anniversary Gala and supported the and always. good good work work that thatwe wedo. do.

December 2018

DECEMBER December 2016 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org November 2016

Providing Help, Creating Hope Delivering

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Give a brighter Christmas

...to children in need!

Celebrate the true meaning of Advent and Christmas with your family and loved ones.

We are pleased to offer you items rich in tradition, faith and inspiration.

Now in Stock...Advent wreaths and calendars; nativities including Fontanini; specialty cards for clergy; Willow Tree; ornaments; and other beautiful gifts.

860-537-0079

392 South Main Street, Colchester

CATHOLIC CHARITIES IS CURRENTLY COLLECTING NEW AND UNWRAPPED TOYS OR GIFT CARDS FOR CHILDREN OF ALL AGES. Donations must be dropped off by Thursday, December 12th at our Norwich location, 331 Main Street.

For more information on how YOU can help, please call 860-889-8346 ext. 266 or log onto ccfsn.org

Our Diocese

Mon-Wed 10-5, Thurs & Fri 10-6, Sat 10-3

Sponsored by the Diocese of Norwich

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Ancient Observance of Carmelites ARE YOU BEING CALLED TO A MORE ARE YOU BEING CALLED TO A MORE CONTEMPLATIVE LIFE OF PRAYER?

Sina Bromley, Andrea Strafach and Rose Mary Lancellotti with

TypesStrafach of Healing: Spiritual, Emotional, Sina Bromley, 4Andrea and Rose Mary Lancellotti with Father Francis Amodio Psychological and Physical Father Francis Amodio

By Carla Belanger

Prayer GroupThe Mass and Prayers Lay Carmelites are part of the Thursday, 5, at 6:30pm Community at Mary, Mother of the December Third Order branch of the Carmelite Two members of theinLay Carmelite The Lay Carmelites are part of thepublic Redeemer Church Groton made Order.

They are an international Sacred Heart Church Chapel, Taftville their final profession to the Order association laity of with purpose of Community at Mary, Mother of theof Third Order of branch thethe Carmelite Individual Prayer and Anointing the Ancient Observance of Carmelites working towards Christian perfection.

Redeemer Church in Groton made Order. They are an international public Two members of the Lay Carmelite By Carla Belanger

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

(O. Carm.) on June 16.

It sets out to do this by living the their final profession to the Order of association of laity with the purpose of Gospel in the spirit of the (Ancient) the Ancient Observance of Carmelites working towards Christian perfection.

The ceremony was the culmination Mass of of Healing Hope Order ofand the Brothers of the Blessed six years of prayer, study and reflection (O. Carm.) on June 16.2nd & 4th Mondays ItVirgin sets out to do this by living Mary of Mount Carmel of Month at 2pm theunder for Andrea Strafach of Immaculate the direction theof Order itself.

Gospel in the of spirit the (Ancient) December 9& 23 Conception Parish in Westerly, RI and The ceremony was the culmination of Order of the Brothers of the Blessed Sina Bromley of Sacred Parish Lay Carmelites promise to live the six years of prayer, study Heart and reflection January 13 & 27, 2020 Virgin Mount Carmelspirit under in Groton, CT. Both made their first GospelMary in theofcontemplative of for Andrea Strafach of Immaculate the direction of the Order itself.

Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich professions in 2015.

Carmel including the practice of prayer Conception Parish in Westerly, RI and Prayer in all and its forms, the Divine Office and Individual Anointing The Bromley Mass wasofcelebrated

by Father Sina Sacred Heart Parish Lay Carmelites promise liveother the Lectio Divina, as well astothe Francis Amodio, O. Carm., Provincial elements of the order’s charism— in Groton, CT. Both made their first Gospel in the contemplative spirit of Delegate for the Province of St. Elias fraternal community and service. professions in 2015.

Carmel including practice of prayer Prayer and Discernment BoardtheMeeting in Middletown, NY, concelebrated in all its forms, the Divine Office and

by Father Dariusz Dudzik, Tuesday, pastor of December Throughout world, there are many 10 the at 11am The Mass was celebrated by Father Lectio Divina, asCommunities. well as the other St. Mary, Mother of the Redeemer, Lay Carmelite In the Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich Francis Amodio, O. Carm., Provincial and assisted

by Deacon Michael North Americas, the Lay Carmelites elements of the order’s charism— Castiblanco.

Also in attendance are undercommunity the jurisdiction of two Delegate for the Province of St. Elias fraternal and service.

Rose MaryNY, Lancellotti, TOC, Provinces of the Ancient Observance: inwas Middletown, concelebrated Merry Christmas –Saint Thank Dear Jesus!

Provincial Coordinator of St. Elias Eliasyou and The Most Pure by Father Dariusz Dudzik, pastor of Throughout the world, there areHeart many Province, along with family members of Mary. In addition to Groton, St. Mother of theand Redeemer, Lay In the andMary, friends of Andrea Sina and LayCarmelite CarmeliteCommunities.

Communities within and assisted by Deacon Michael North Americas, the Lay Carmelites Healing Service other members of the St.Healing Theresa Mass and Connecticut are located in Middletown, Castiblanco.

AlsoCommunity. in attendance are under the jurisdiction of two (Lay Carmelite) Mass Wethersfield, Waterbury, Shelton, Sunday, December 29 wasRose followed a pot luck TOC, luncheon Danbury and Hamden. members was MarybyLancellotti, Provinces of the AncientNew Observance: Mass 1 – 2pm.

Continued Healing Service to provided by fellow Lay Carmelites, are always welcome.

For further Provincial Coordinator of St. Elias Saint Elias and The Most Pure4pm.

Heart and the cutting of a cake toSt. mark the information, please contact Suzanne Thomas The Apostle Chapel Province, along with family members ofHenderson, Mary. In addition to Groton, occasion.

Regional Coordinator, at 872 Farmington Ave, West Hartford and friends of Andrea and Sina and Lay Carmelite Communities tocregion2@carmelites.com.within other members ofPrayer the St. Theresa Connecticut areand located in Middletown, Teams, Individual Prayer Anointing (Lay Carmelite) Community.

Mass Prayerful Wethersfield, Waterbury, Happy New Year, 2020! Shelton, was followed by a pot luck luncheon Danbury and Hamden. New members provided by fellow Lay Carmelites, are always welcome. For further Spiritual Renewal Services and the cutting of a cake to mark the information, please contact Suzanne Spiritual Henderson, Renewal Regional CenterCoordinator, at occasion.

11 Bath Street,tocregion2@carmelites.com.

Norwich, CT 06360

12

Phone: 860-887-0702

CONTEMPLATIVE LIFE OF PRAYER?

Consider Consider Becoming Becoming aa Lay Lay Carmelite Carmelite Whoare areLay LayCarmelites?

Carmelites?

Who LayCarmelite Carmelitemust mustbebeaaCatholic Catholic18 18ororolder olderfully fully AALay participating in the sacramental life of the Church. They are participating the sacramental of the Church. called to liveinmore deeply theirlife baptismal promises.They Theare Lay called to livefollows more deeply their ofbaptismal Carmelite the mission Carmel promises.

- which is The also Lay the Carmelite the mission of Carmel - whichworld is alsoaccording the mission offollows the Church to transform the secular to the teachings of Jesus Christ. This accomplished through the mission of the Church to transform theissecular world according Carmelite charism and dedication to prayer, community and the to the teachings of Jesus Christ. This is accomplished through service. Most importantly, being a Lay Carmelite is not just a Carmelite charism and dedication to prayer, community and devotion added to life; it is a way of life—a vocation! service. Most importantly, being a Lay Carmelite is not just a devotion added to life; it is a way of life—a vocation!

Where Can I Find a Lay Carmelite Community Near me?

Mary, the Redeemer, WhereMother Can I ofFind a Lay CarmeliteSt.Community Near me?

Therese, Waterbury Groton Immaculate Conception Basilica, 69 Groton Long Point Road

Mary,Meets: Mother of the Redeemer, 3rd Sat, 10 am-12 pm Groton

West Main St. Meets: Tues.

St. Therese,3rd Waterbury

Holy Face of Jesus, 69 Groton Long Point Road Middletown Meets:St.3rd Sat, 10of am-12 Francis Assisi,pm

Immaculate Conception Basilica, Mystical Rose, Shelton West Main St. St. Lawrence Church Parish Center, Meets: 3rd Tues.

505 Shelton Ave.

10 Elm Street Holy 4th FaceSun., of 1-3:30 Jesus,pm Meets:

Mystical Rose, Shelton

Middletown

Immaculate Heart, St. Francis of Assisi, Wethersfield 10 Elm Street Sacred Heart Church, Meets:564thHartford Sun., 1-3:30 Ave. pm Meets: 4th Wed., 6-9 pm

Immaculate Heart, Wethersfield

Meets: 2nd Thurs., 6:30-9 pm

St. Joseph, St. Lawrence ChurchDanbury Parish Center, 8505 Robinson SheltonAvenue Ave. Meets: 1st Sat., 10:30 am Meets: 2nd Thurs., 6:30-9 pm

St. Joseph, Danbury 8 Robinson Avenue Meets: 1st Sat., 10:30 am

Sacred Heart Church,

For further information, please contact: 56 Hartford Ave. Regional Coordinator | tocregion2@carmelites.com.

Suzanne Henderson,

Meets: 4th Wed., 6-9 pm

For further information, please contact: Suzanne Henderson, Regional Coordinator | tocregion2@carmelites.com.

SEPTEMBER 2018 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org SEPTEMBER 2018 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

“…In the sixth month, the Angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee, called Nazareth, to a Virgin whose name was Mary…Do not be afraid, Mary, for You have found favor with God. You will conceive and bear a son, and You shall name Him Jesus (which means ‘God is with us’), He will be great and will be called ‘Son of the Most High…He will rule over the house of Jacob FOREVER, and of His Kingdom…there will be NO End!” (LUKE 1:26, 30-33)

9

9

New Ultrasound System Dedicated

at the Caring Families Pregnancy Services in Willimantic

T

his past Veteran's Day, Council 14209 of the Knights of Columbus, at the St. Thomas Aquinas Church at the University of Connecticut, purchased a new ultrasound machine to allow clients to view their unborn baby.

Caring Families is a 501 (c) 3 non-profit that provides help and support to women who are dealing with pregnancy- related issues.

They provide pregnancy testing, ultrasounds, parenting education, material support such as diapers and cribs, as well as connecting our clients with local community referrals for needs like healthcare, housing and other relevant social services.

They operate the Women's Center

of Eastern Connecticut, located in Willimantic, and Mobile Care van.

Every woman should feel loved and supported during an unexpected pregnancy and through the work at Women's Center of Eastern Connecticut and Mobile Care, families are loved and are not alone.

All services are free of charge to their clients.

Nurse Sonographer, Lorri Valle, indicated that the new GE Lobgiq V2 Ultrasound System provides a clear picture of the baby and also allows them to project the image from the ultrasound to a screen on the wall so the clients can watch their baby in the mother's womb.

Carl A. Anderson, the Supreme Knight, sent Council 14209 a letter in which he said "Ultrasound technology opens a window into the womb and dramatically shows the humanity of the unborn, even to the doubting eyes of those who may not have previously shared our regard for the sanctity of unborn life.

The Supreme Council is therefore pleased to partner with St. Thomas Aquinas Council 14209 in purchasing this powerful tool which we hope and pray will help save many lives through the good work of Caring Families Pregnancy Services."

The Women's Center is open Tuesdays 10-4pm and Thursdays

10-6pm, and by appointment on Mondays. To learn more visit womenscenterec.com. Our Mobile Care Van travels the state and is in different locations just about every day. To see a schedule and learn more visit gomobilect.com.

Our Diocese

By Anthony Kotula

State Deputy Gary McKeone, who leads the 200 Councils of the Knights of Columbus in our State; Stephen Orrell, Treasurer of Council 14209; Lorri Valle, Nurse and Sonographer; Reverend James Beesley Jr, President of the Board of Caring Families; Jeremy Bradley, Executive Director of Caring Families; Veronica Trudel, Operations Manager; Dave Imhof, District Deputy for six Councils; and Anthony Kotula, Past Grand Knight of Council 14209

13

The Beating Heart of One Ministry

By Andrea D. Hoisl

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

A beating heart is the life maintaining organ and without this organ our bodies would not be able to function or grow. The same can be said for Dina Bienvenu, one of the leading forces behind the One Heart Ministry – a partnership for people with disabilities, their family members and caregivers.

Dina is the women who has hand crafted thousands of pins, keychains, afghans and crafted baby blocks that can be seen throughout the diocese.

These items have been donated as raffle baskets at Church craft fairs, bazaars and fundraisers at numerous parishes and schools.

14

Her tireless work ethic and passion for sharing her gifts and talents with

others have made her the heart and soul of this disability’s ministry and outreach. Although she herself has limitations and obstacles in her life, her exceptional creativity and drive to spread the disability awareness message has enabled the diocese to reach out to parishes and schools with programs, signs and symbols that remind adults and young people that we are all equal in God’s eyes.

One Heart Ministry was established three years ago as an outreach for people whose lives are touched by a disability. But very quickly the group turned into a disability awareness and advocacy group thanks to the continued efforts of Dina and her cousin Randy Bouley, administrative assistant for the Diocesan Office of Safe Environments.

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Creamery Brook is part of the Continuum of Care at

36 Vina Lane, Brooklyn, CT 06234 • 860-779-8700 • www.piercecare.org

Recipients are asked to put the keychain on their backpack or bag to support people with visible and invisible disabilities. Dina hopes the keychain will serve as a conversation piece for both children and adults who see it. The programs are designed to raise awareness so that people will become more comfortable talking about the abilities and disabilities we all have, physically as well as mentally.

Not one to sit still for long, Dina’s latest undertaking is the creation of a keychain designed especially for

veterans, to thank them for their service and dedication. So many of our veterans return with physical and mental disabilities from their years of service to our country. The keychains have a flag on one side and a heart with a cross on the other side. Attached to each keychain is a tag that says, “With respect, honor, and gratitude for all who served.”

Many parishes across the Diocese distributed these on November 9-10 to commemorate Veterans Day. Those of us that work side by side with Dina as part of One Heart Ministry are continuously inspired by her passion and joy for life. Her spirit permeates everything she does and gives everyone around her a sense that they matter. Dina motivates us all to be more and do more than we ever thought possible. She is the big heart behind One Heart Ministry in our diocese.

November 16, 2019 to February 2, 2020

KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS MUSEUM 1 State Street, New Haven, CT 06511 • 203-865-0400 • kofcmuseum.org Open 10-5 daily • Free admission & parking • Gift shop

Our Diocese

What started as a support group has turned into so much more. Over the years the group has given presentations at Diocesan Catholic Schools and parishes giving a voice for people with disabilities. After each Disability Awareness presentation, Dina hands out keychains she has designed and crafted personally, with a heart on one side and a cross on the other. Each keychain includes the tag, “Just like me – we all need a little help sometime.”

Christmas in Europe

15

Many Voices Sing as One

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

in Candlelight Concert and Compline

16

Article and photos by Ryan Blessing

T

he voices of the Norwich Diocesan Choir echoed through the Cathedral of St. Patrick and candlelight washed over the faces of those present during the annual concert and Compline on Sunday, November 17th.

The concert and Compline were organized under the supervision of new music director Michael Lianos, who conducted the choir in the cathedral loft. Michael McCarthy was the organist for the concert.

“Where charity and love are, God is there,” is the translation of the Latin verse, “Ubi Caritas et amor, Deus ibi est,” the first line sung by the choir.

Featured selections included “Lift Up Your Heads, O Ye Gates” by William Matthias, “Lord for Thy Tender Mercies’ Sake” by Richard Farrant and Psalm 150, as well as “Ave Verum” and “Ave Maria.”

The program proceeded with the Compline, then followed by the performance of the rite of Penitential Act, “Kyrie,” a hymn, and the psalmody, a singing of the Psalms.

Attendees held their lit candles and sang in unison.

From the altar the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D, Bishop of Norwich, read the Word of God, Revelation 22:4-5.

Our Diocese

The Psalmody and Gospel Canticle featured antiphons, or short sacred chants, such as “Night holds no terrors for me sleeping under God’s wings.”

17

Kind Hearts Fuel Catholic Foundation Growth

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

would be thrilled to know we were able to create an endowment to help support her beloved St. Patrick’s into the future."

I DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

f the Catholic Foundation had ears, they would be ringing!

More and more often people are discussing the Catholic Foundation as being a good place to donate some of their hard-earned money.

18

During 2019, the Catholic Foundation has added new endowments at a very steady pace.

People realize that by establishing an endowment within the Catholic Foundation, they can ensure that their favorite parish, school or diocesan ministry will receive financial support long after they have moved on to a better life with Jesus. Potential donors also understand that their donation will be overseen by not only the Board of the Foundation but also professionally invested by the Knights of Columbus Assets Advisors in compliance with United States Conference of Catholic Bishops Socially Responsible Investment Guidelines. Donors also enjoy the fact that in naming their endowment, they can remember a loved one in perpetuity.

Whether the entity to be benefited by an endowment is a school, church or soup kitchen, all recipients are extremely thankful for this much needed support. The first new endowment of 2019 was the Sacred Heart Church Education Endowment established to help Sacred Heart School in Groton remain strong into the future.

Earnings from this endowment will help to offset rising tuition costs.

Pastor Darius Dudzik, Principal

Reverend Darius Dudzik and Principal, Dr. Gail Kingston Gail Kingston, and a task force of volunteers led by Bill Michaud, spearheaded the creation of this endowment.

Sharing the importance of this endowment Father Darius said, "Sacred Heart School has been educating and forming students for over 60 years. During its history, thousands of students have gained knowledge and wisdom and encountered the Lord and longed to put Him at the heart of everything they do. We hope that the endowment will help us to continue this valuable ministry to our youth and their families for the next 60 years and beyond and enrich the Church with committed and dedicated members." Dr. Kingston stressed, “The endowment

was created so that any child that wanted a Catholic education would be able to afford it.”

Next, came the creation of the Theresa N. Reardon Endowment by her nephew, Thomas Zotti. Tom knew that Theresa had wanted to establish an endowment to benefit her church, St. Patrick Cathedral in Norwich. Tom felt that an endowment in his aunt’s name to benefit her church was a fitting memorial to her after her death.

He said, "Our Aunt T was a generous and caring soul who always tried to take of those people and things that mattered to her. Our family knew that while she was alive, but after her passing it has become even more evident. She

Later in the year, Susan and John Wronowski of Cross Sound Ferry, New London, decided that they wanted to fund a scholarship in honor of their dear friend, the late Monsignor Robert L. Brown who served the diocese for over 40 years as a parish priest and later as Chancellor, among a multitude of other diocesan and parish duties he performed. Knowing Monsignor Brown’s love of education, they decided that once a year, monies distributed from their endowment would be used for tuition assistance of a St. Bernard student who had a financial need coupled with exceptional moral character and a true desire to make a difference in the lives others just as Monsignor Brown did during his lifetime.

With this intention, Susan and John established The Wronowski Family Scholarship in Honor of Monsignor Robert L. Brown.

Reflecting on Monsignor Brown, John Wronowski said, “Monsignor Brown touched the lives of our family in so many ways over our long and lasting friendship. He always took the time to say hello after mass, drop a note to see how we were doing and never missed the christening of one our new ferries nor the celebration afterwards. We loved how Monsignor Brown was always thrilled to get away for the day on his numerous ferry trips to Long Island, trips he would recount with such fondness. My family and

I strongly feel that this endowment in honor of Monsignor Brown will ensure that his memory and the compassion he bestowed on so many of our lives will continue on.”

Last but certainly not least, Genevieve Rafferty, a former New London resident and teacher was remembered by the creation of an endowment bearing her name by her granddaughter, Seana RaffertyHanson, currently of West Virginia, Attorney Thomas Londregan, New London and Monsignor Randall, currently serving as Primer Consejero for the Papal Nuncio in Mexico City.

The Genevieve Rafferty Endowment will be used to support St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich. Speaking of her grandmother, Seana shared, “My Grandma Genn was a model of giving back to the community ever since I could walk. Whether it was gathering spare change for the church collection plate; books and clothing for children in rural and poor communities; writing

letters to soldiers overseas who couldn’t be home with their families for the holiday season; reading to people in the hospital, and larger philanthropic projects as I got older; she inspired projects that would nourish the mind, body and spirit of other people.”

Monsignor Randall expressing the ability of this endowment to carry on Genevieve’s tradition of helping others said, “Mrs. Rafferty was known in St. Joseph’s parish, New London, for her beautiful smile and concern for social justice. She always wanted to help, but quietly and behind the scenes. She did so concretely with her time, talent and treasure, both in the US and abroad.

Genevieve looked for situations and people who fell through the cracks and loopholes that life often brings. By donating to the Rafferty Endowment Fund, under the auspices of the Catholic Foundation, a person is assured that their money is invested correctly and used for the scope to which they had intended

Monsignor Kevin Randall with Stuart and Seana Hanson. it. The Diocesan Bishop has a team of financial experts who manage the assets of the Foundation so that it can bear fruit to help people who might otherwise be forgotten. In this case, the Rafferty Endowment Fund continues to feed the disadvantaged who gather at the St. Vincent de Paul Place in Norwich. A small donation to this endowment renders Genn’s smile and heart to the people in need.”

Please join us in thanking our current donors to the Catholic Foundation for their generosity.

If you would like to donate to any of the now 36 endowments of the Catholic Foundation or are interested in establishing an endowment yourself, please contact this author, Mary Ellen Mahoney at either (860) 886-1928, ext. 113, or memahoney@norwichdiocese.net.

FUNERAL HOMES

12 Ocean Avenue 12 Ocean Avenue New London, CT New London, CT 443-1871443-1871

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

www.neilanfuneralhome.com FUNERAL HOMES

12 Ocean Avenue New London, CT 443-1871

48 Grand Street Niantic, CT 739-6112

www.neilanfuneralhome.com

Our Diocese

Monsignor Robert L. Brown christening the Susan Anne, flanked by Cross Sound Ferry owners, Susan and John Wronowski, October, 1999

19

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

St. Andrew Parish packs 21,600 meals to send to the Philippines

20

By Carol Pettit

O

n Sunday, November 3rd St. Andrew Parish family worked together to pack 21,600 meals to send to the Philippines. It was a wonderful intergenerational service day with our Pastor Father Marek Masnicki, our Parochial Vicar Father Richard Breton and our Deacon Michael Puscas all working alongside parishioners from small children to virtually every CCD grade to the elderly. We were also joined by Father Brain Maxwell. Under the direction of Harvest Pack, this took only about one hour and a half from the start of packing to the finish. There were parishioners from nearly all ministries and all grades working side by side. The Philippines was chosen because of a program called ‘Transform’ which feeds the people who are in the Transform program while teaching them a skill to later provide for themselves and their families and also introduces them to a relationship with Jesus Christ.

PLEASE HELP THIS HOLIDAY SEASON “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 always needed!

St. Vincent de Paul Middletown

860-344-0097 www.svdmiddletown.org

St.Vincent de Paul Place Norwich 860-889-7374 www.svdpp.org

Dr. Christopher Lipinski was Invested into the Order of Malta

Left left to right: Nancy and Dr. Christopher Lipinski, Sue and Bob Staab (co-chairs of the Eastern Connecticut chapter of the Knights of Malta) and Joe Lacasse.

On November 15, 2019, Dr. Christopher Lipinski was invested into the Order of Malta. Founded in 1099, the Order of Malta is more than 900 years old and runs hospitals, medical centers, nursing homes and hospice care. From its origin and throughout history, it has emphasized care of the sick and poor. The Order, with 13,500 Knights, Dames and auxiliary members, employs about 25,000 doctors, nurses, auxiliaries and paramedics assisted by 80,000 volunteers in more than 120 countries, assisting children, homeless, handicapped, refugeed, elders,

terminally ill and lepers around the world without distinction of ethnicity or religion.

Through its worldwide relief corps, Malteser International, the order aids victims of natural disasters, epidemics and war. In several countries, including France, Germany and Ireland, local associations of the order are important providers of medical emergency services and training.

The investiture took place at St. Patrick’s Cathedral in New York City during the Solemn Mass of Investiture celebrated by Cardinal

Sean O’Malley, Archbishop of Boston. Dr. Lipinski was invested with 70 Knights and Dames into the Sovereign Order of Malta, American Association.

Dr. Lipinski is a resident of Waterford. He is a parishioner of Our Lady of Perpetual Help Catholic Church, Quaker Hill. He is a member of the board of directors of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich, Inc. “It is a tremendous honor and privilege to belong to the Knights of Malta that gives to the sick and poor,” said Dr. Lipinski.

For more information visit orderofmaltaamerican.org/areas/connecticut-eastern/area-home/

Our Diocese

By FCC News Desk

21

Sacred Heart School, Groton

Sacred Heart School, Taftville

50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton, CT 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org/school

Phone: 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org

Gail Kingston, Principal

Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville, CT

St. School,Danielson Stafford Springs St.Edward James School, Mrs. Pelletier, Principal LindaMaryAnne Marie Joyal, Principal 120Church WaterSt, St,Stafford Danielson, CT CT 25 Springs, 860-774-3281 Phone: 860-684-2600 www.stjamesdanielson.org www.stedward-stafford.org

St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale David Sizemore, Principal

26 Main St., N. Grosvenordale, CT Phone: 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.org

Academic Excellence. Character. Self-Confidence.

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

SOCKTOBER Second Graders Send 188 Pairs of Socks to Local Shelters

22

S

econd grade students at The Church of the Holy Family in Hebron ran the church’s annual “Socktober” drive that collected 188 pairs of socks.

Socks were donated to the No-Freeze Shelter and Holy Family Home and Shelter for Battered Women & Children, both in Willimantic.

St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic Ian M. Holland, Principal 35 Valley St, Willimantic, CT Phone: 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org

Pictured top row from left, volunteers Mary Suroviak from Hebron, Jennifer Elomaa from Hebron and Elizabeth Dubreuil from Colchester with second graders.

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich

63 Liberty St, Pawcatuck, CT Phone: 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com

211 Broadway, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-889-4174 www.st-patrickschoolnorwich.org

Mrs. Doris Messina, Principal

Sharon Stewart , Principal

Academy of the Holy Fa

St. John School, Old Saybrook Mother Mary David, SCMC Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic, 42 Maynard Road, Old Saybrook, CTPhone: 860-822-9272 Phone: 860-388-0849 www.ahfbaltic.org www.saintjohnschoolos.org

St. John Paul II School, Middletown Mr. Lawrence Fitzgerald, Principal 87 South Main St, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-347-2978 www.jpii.org

St. Joseph School, Baltic

Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal

10 School Hill Road, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org

St. Joseph School, New London Ms. Marianne Cote, Principal 25 Squire St, New London, CT Phone: 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com

St. Bernard School, Uncasville

Mr. Donald Macrino, Headmaster 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke, Uncasville, CT Phone: 860-848-1271 www.saint-bernard.com

Superintendent's Office My Dear Friends, Advent is upon us. It is a time of great anticipation of the coming of our Savior, Jesus. We hear a lot from the prophet Isaiah in our readings during this season.

Isaiah is the most quoted prophet in the New Testament and his book is second only to Psalms in the number of quotations from scripture in the New Testament. He was troubled by the moral breakdown of his time. His message is as relevant today as it was many centuries ago. He tried to remind the people of the need to keep God’s covenant if Israel was to remain God’s chosen people, but his message fell upon deaf ears.

Our modern day “Isaiahs” are our Bishop, clergy, and religious Brothers and Sisters. We instill in our students the importance of listening very carefully at Mass each and every week. Think about how blessed we are to be able to have our students attend Mass and receive the Eucharist as part of our normal school schedules. The earlier we instill our Christian values in our children, the more chance we have of Isaiah’s message to be met with open ears and open hearts, which will last a lifetime.

Several trips to different destinations: the Holy Land; Italy, France, Portugal & Spain; Poland; Medjugorje, Lourdes & Fatima; Ireland & Scotland; England; Austria, Germany & Switzerland; Greece & Turkey; Budapest; Prague; Our Lady of Guadalupe and Domestic Destinations.

We are blessed to be in the ministry of Catholic education in the Diocese of Norwich. It gives me so much hope to know that I would be able to walk into any of our classrooms and see first-hand that our children “get it” when it comes to the importance of Advent and Christmas. From the youngest three-year-old to the oldest teenager in our schools, one can witness the purity of Jesus’ love firsthand. Not only do our children and teenagers recognize this priority and want to learn more about it, but they also live it each and every day. That, my friends, is worth more than any material gift they could receive for Christmas.

My prayer for you this month is that we all heed Isaiah’s message of how to live, keep Jesus in the center of the Advent and Christmas seasons, and that we all become beacons of His light.

Henry Fiore, Jr. Superintendent of Schools

amily, Baltic

C, Principal CT

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

Mercy High School, Middletown

Sr. Mary McCarthy, RSM, President 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-346-6659

www.mercyhigh.com

Xavier High School, Middletown David C. Eustis, Headmaster Mr. Brendan Donohue, Principal 181 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-346-7735

www.xavierhighschool.org

Diocesan School Office

OUR YOUTH

Take comfort in the fact that our Catholic schools are the counterculture when it comes to what this holy season of Advent is all about. It is NOT about buying presents and rushing around in consumer madness. Every year, there seems to be more and more commercialism and secularization of this Holy Season. Department stores have their Christmas displays of goods before Halloween, and it is rare to find any spiritual value in what is displayed.

25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-887-4086

www.norwichdso.org

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DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

YX

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A Time to Encounter Christ

Father Mark Sauriol, pastor of St. Mary Parish, Pawtucket, RI, speaking with the youth.

By Liza Roach eing open to an encounter with God should be the most important thing in each person’s life was the message nearly 200 youth at this year’s Youth Explosion heard from Cooper Ray, a national speaker and musician.

“God should be with you in all parts of your lives, not just when you go to bed and pray, and not just when you have a crisis or a sudden need,” said Mr. Ray, who dynamically blended music and personal testimony to inspire youth to make God a priority in their lives.

“Cooper encouraged young people to not sit on the sidelines, but truly experience God because there is so much more that God can offer when we go deep,” said Liza Roach, Youth and Young Adult coordinator for the diocese.

B

Following Cooper Ray’s and write a letter to God as part of presentation, Fr. Mark Sauriol, pastor a prayer activity. Other activities of St. Mary Parish, Pawtucket, RI, included playing a game called, celebrated Mass and gave a stirring “Protect your Neighbor,” in which homily reminding participants that youth stood in a circle with a ball, God is present in each one of us. and ‘the neighbor’ could not move “In the moments of our lives where while one guard protected him from we can put aside our the flying ball. selfish needs and be Another activity present for others, that "In the moments of gave youth the is when we become chance to use our lives where we their cell phones the living presence of Christ,” he said. Fr. can put aside our and read QR Sauriol celebrated this selfish needs and be discussion codes year’s Mass as Bishop that allowed them present for others, to see questions Michael Cote was in Rome at the time. that is when we about Cooper presentation As part of the day’s become the living Ray’s and their Catholic events, youth and presence of Christ” faith. adults had the opportunity to receive As part of the the Sacrament of day’s events, Liza Reconciliation, participate in Roach distributed the St. Timothy Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament Award to three Diocesan high school

Darren Abbott, from St. Mary Parish, Clinton, assists Speaker and Musician Cooper Ray during a visual activity at this year’s Youth Explosion at St. Bernard High School in Montville.

From the Saint Bernard Family to Your Family…

Cooper Ray’s music inspired participants at this year’s Youth Explosion to stand up and “Praise the Lord.”

May your Christmas be Blessed and your New Year filled with Peace and Joy.

students. The St. Timothy award is given to high school students who exemplify its threefold purpose – good moral values, Christian service and Catholic leadership. Recipients must be involved in parish, diocesan, school and community youth programs or services during their high school years. This year’s winners are: Ann Lucia Bernadette Geoly, a senior from Ledyard High School and member of Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Gales Ferry; Olivia

Riccio, a junior from Morgan High School, Clinton, and a member of St. Mary Church, Clinton; and Nathalie O’Neill, a senior at Mercy High School, Middletown and a member of St. Pius X Church, Middletown.

Several participants at this year’s Youth Explosion said the day’s events were full of faith and fun and they are eager to return. “Are we coming back next year?” said Luke Nicholas, a middle school student from Sacred Heart Parish, Taftville.

Pope Francis @Pontifex That every country determines to take the necessary measures to make the future of the very young, especially those who suffer, a priority.

OUR YOUTH

Saint Bernard School • Grades 6–12 • 1593 Norwich-NL Tpke • Uncasville, CT 06382

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DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Former Student Honors Sr. Barbara Gould

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By Henry Fiore

Sr. Barbara Gould, R.S.M. gets a big surprise during the annual Teachers' Institute held on November 12 at the Holiday Inn in Norwich. Dr. Patrick Slattery, Executive Director of the Xaverian sponsored schools was the keynote speaker for the Institute.

Sr. Barbara was his elementary school principal of Our Lady of Mercy School in Madison, CT during the in the 1980's.

During Dr. Slattery's presentation, Sr. Barbara was shown a surprise slide of the dedication to her from his class yearbook.

She was also honored with a lovely gift and a cake which fed the 150 elementary/middle school principals and teachers in attendance.

St. Joseph School New London, CT

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

Registration is ongoing, please call for information

St. Joseph School 25 Squire St New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-442-1720

OUR YOUTH

Celebrating 81 Years of Excellence In Catholic Education Grades K-8

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Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Gales Ferry presents:

CATHOLICISM: The Pivotal Players

Bishop Robert Barron’s DVD explores saints, artists, mystics, and scholars who helped shape the life of the Church and the course of western civilization.

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

December 19

St. Benedict, the Monk contributed to saving western Christian culture; while his religious community preserved the best of the old and fostered an authentic Christian way of life.

Register on-line at secretary@ololgf.org or by phone at 860.464.7251 There is no fee for this series.

All presentations are at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Meeting Room 1650 Route12, Gales Ferry (across from CVS)

The Pivotal Players book is available from Word on Fire Ministries but is not obligatory.

TO PLACE AN AD OR STORY IN THE FEBRUARY ISSUE ADVERTISEMENTS AND CONTENT DUE ON MONDAY JANUARY 6, 2020 CONTACT ADVERTISING SALES/PRODUCTION MANAGER MEREDITH VERNOTT, 860.887.3933

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COMMEREDITH@NORWICHDIOCESE.NET

A New Year’s Resolution with a Twist

By Andrea Hoisl

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very year, as we wrap up our Christmas celebrations, our minds shift to thoughts of the New Year. We contemplate making a resolution we may or may not keep.

The thought of a resolution sounds so positive and healthy that we cannot help but get drawn into the idea of changing and obtaining a new outlook on life in the New Year. Resolutions fill us with hope for a better year on numerous levels.

Unfortunately, statistics tell us that most people abandon their resolution within two weeks of making it! Our resolve is weakened by busyness, winter temperatures, laziness or any number of obstacles and/or excuses.

What if we all took a new approach to a New Year’s resolution this year?

What if we all resolve to get to know God better this year through prayer, attending Mass regularly, receiving the Sacrament of Reconciliation to apologize to God for becoming a stranger or starting every meal with grace? If we all do something, anything, that helps “re-acquaint” us with our God who loves us

unconditionally, then perhaps we will find many new and surprising blessings in the New Year.

The beauty of this resolution is it doesn’t matter how much or how little time you spend on it, it will change your life for the better either way! Let’s face it,- in a world of chaos and uncertainty we all long for the hope and peace God gives us freely. Who doesn’t want to wake up feeling joyful and ready for a day full of blessings? Who doesn’t want someone with whom we can share our innermost fears and expectations without worrying about being judged?

Who doesn’t need some inspiration to help us through the “not so great” days? We all want and need that and so much more. Our God is there waiting with all of those gifts for all of us. Unlike other resolutions, this one takes little effort and provides a big payoff!

If we focus our efforts on coming to know God personally, our families would truly be the domestic Church God designed them to be – the

supportive, loving, and faithful foundation from which our children learn and flourish. Too often, our children look to the world for answers, comfort and happiness. If we include God in our families, there is no need for our children to look anywhere else for unconditional love and acceptance.

That is the greatest gift we could ever give them.

As human beings we are imperfect and all of us make mistakes. We hurt one another by our choices, actions and attitudes. That is why role modeling a relationship with God is so important. The relationship we help our children build with God is one that will serve as the foundation on which all other relationships will be built.

What a great way to start the year!

Apps to use in helping to make God a priority in your life: • Scripture Typer: Scripture memorization isn’t just for Sunday school kids. Hiding passages of the Bible in your heart gives you a great well of truth to draw from when you are facing temptation or

Ignite Your Faith.

trial. Daily Bible reading is one way, but a dedicated plan for Scripture memorization is another way to saturate your mind with God’s Word.

It can also provide the fuel for biblical meditation throughout your day.

• Productive-Habit Tracker: Allows you to set up habits and the frequency with which you would like to do them (e.g. daily, weekly, only on Sundays, etc.). It will remind you at certain times to do them and ask you to log whether you have or haven’t performed that habit. It gives you rewards for keeping up a streak and gives you a good historical picture of how well you’ve done.

• Prayer Mate: Allows you to store up all of the things you want to be praying about and have it give you a prayer list each day. This app helps you not to forget so that you continue to pray with perseverance until the Lord answers.

• Dynamic Catholic: Articles about everything from work, marriage, relationships, money, and more!

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks for additional articles and resources

OUR FAITH

Fai th Sparks

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Sharing the Reason for the Season Special Observances of Advent and the Christmas Season

I wish to encourage the beautiful family tradition of preparing the nativity scene in the days before Christmas, but also, the custom of setting it up in the workplace, in schools, hospitals, prisons and town squares.

- Pope Francis Holiday Greetings from the Communications Office,

Sunday December 1

DECEMBER 2019 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Advent Begins

Thursday, December 12

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe A special Eucharistic celebration the Cathedral of Saint Patrick at 7pm.

Tuesday, December 24 Advent Ends Christmas Eve

Wednesday, December 25 Christmas Day

Tuesday, December 31 Feast of the Holy Family

In response, we are a creating a photo gallery of Christmas crèche’s from around the diocese which will be included on the NorwichDiocese.org/Advent webpage of along with other Advent Resources, for all to view.

So far, diocesan ministries, offices, churches and schools have been contributing pictures of the nativity scene on display at their locations.

We are extending this to all readers to participate. Please email a picture of your Christmas crèche to editorial@norwichdiocese.net. It will then be shared with the readers of our weekly newsletter and each other as we prepare for the wonderful season of Christmas.

Please name your photo with your Family name, location and year photo was taken, for example–– JonesFamily _Willimantic_2019 If you need help figuring out how to email a photo visit the NorwichDiocese.org/ Advent webpage for details and to read Pope Francis’s apostolic letter.

Let us share the joy of the season with each other in this special way.

Wednesday, January 1, 2020 Solemnity of Mary, Mother of God and Octave Day of Christmas (Holy Day of Obligation)

Sunday, January 5

Solemnity of the Epiphany of the Lord Christmas season concludes.

Sunday, January 12

Feast of the Baptism of the Lord 30

On the First Sunday of Advent Pope Francis issued an apostolic letter, Admirabile signum, on the meaning and importance of nativity scenes, calling for this “wonderful sign” to be more widely displayed in family homes and public places throughout the world.

- Wayne

Mother Theresa “Jesus is pleased to come to us as the truth to be told and the life to be lived, as the light to be lighted and the love to be loved, as the joy to be given, and the peace to be spread.”

(Verse by Mother Theresa)

May the Spirit of Jesus fill you with joy this Christmas morning.

Christmas Prayer

"For unto us a Child is born.. "

Heavenly Father, we celebrate the birth of your Son, Jesus, remembering the words of the angels on the night of His birth, peace on Earth to all of goodwill. Today, as never before, Almighty God, we pray for your loving peace. May peace be the guiding force in the hearts of our world leaders. May peace reign in every corner of the globe and in the hearts of every man, woman and child upon this birth. This Christmas and always, may we embrace your wonderful gifts with courage and conviction. In doing so, We will also be embracing your greatest gift to us, your Son, the prince of peace!

Amen

Please be sure to notify us of an address change, a name change of a recipient of the Four County Catholic, or a request to discontinue receiving the newspaper. You may notify us via email at subscriptions@norwichdiocese.net or call 860-887-3933. Thank you for helping us maintain accurate mailing information to better serve you.

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