Four County Catholic February 2018

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Volume 30 • Number 2 • February 2018 Serving The Counties Of Middlesex, New London, Tolland, Windham, CT & Fishers Island, NY

LOVE SAVES LIVES Father Brian Maxwell and diocesan participants supporting “2018 March for Life” in Washington D.C.

In This Issue On The Cover

Cover photo and story: Father Brian Maxwell and diocesan participants in the 2018 March for Life in Washington, D.C. The emotional theme for this year’s event was “Love Saves Lives.” See page 16 for a first-hand account of the experience of this major prolife pilgrimage as witnessed by the diocesan youth, parents, priests and religious in attendance.

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC norwichdiocese.org

Serving The Counties Of Middlesex • New London • Tolland • Windham, CT & Fishers Island, NY

­Established in 1989 and published each month except July.

Made Possible in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal

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

860.887.9294

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31 Perkins Avenue, Norwich, CT 06360-3613 Fax 860.859.1253 Director of Communications/Executive Editor

Michael Strammiello, 860.887.3933

com@norwichdiocese.net

Theological Advisor

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Thank You Knights of Columbus

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To the Knights of Columbus Councils who so generously gave of their hard-earned fundraising to make the trip to Washington happen, may God abundantly bless the Knights and their families for helping ensure that the diocese was there in Washington. Hopefully, with the continuing support of the Knights of Columbus, we will have the opportunity to have many more young people join in future marches to pray together, stand together and work together for an end to abortion and the unjust taking of human life. Love saves lives.

Very Reverend Ted F. Tumicki, S.T.L., J.C.L., J.V. 860.887.9294 Advertising Sales/Production MANAGER

Meredith Morrison, 860.887.3933 c ommeredith@norwichdiocese.net SENIOR WRITER

Wayne Gignac, 860.886.1281

wgignac@norwichdiocese.net

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Parish Mergers Update

In-person interviews of the four pastors of the newly merged parishes help shine light on the progress and hopes of the joined communities of faith.

Pastors share common challenges and opportunities of pulling together as newly merged parishes. See page 8 for interviews and insights regarding the changes taking place, how to honor the past and embrace the future.

The deadline for advertising and editorial is the second 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 or fax to 860.859.1253. 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. © Copyright 2018, Diocese of Norwich. All rights reserved.

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Four County Catholic, 31 Perkins Ave., Norwich, CT 06360-3613 FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC Issue 2 February (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 31 Perkins Avenue, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

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THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY In my New Year’s column in January, I spoke of how “God specializes in new beginnings.” As we now approach the holy season of Lent, we encounter an extraordinary opportunity to recognize our need to reform and to renew our lives in the light of the Gospel. During Lent, our penitence, discipline and sacrifice prepare us to appreciate anew that in Jesus Christ, God gave us his only begotten Son who laid down His life for us and our salvation. As we prayerfully contemplate this greatest act of love ever known to humanity, Lent offers us a new beginning as the Lord embraces our hearts and we embrace His life.

To share completely in Jesus’ life, we must journey with Him to Jerusalem, to Calvary and to Resurrection. This journey requires reflection upon our own lives and the way in which we are called to serve the Lord and one another. Our Lenten observance makes us more aware of Jesus’ presence in our lives and enables us to grow in faith and in love as we gather the strength to serve others.

We live in a time that calls to us as faithful disciples to respond to the urgent needs of the vulnerable, the overwhelmed, the hungry, the lonely and the immigrants and refugees risking all to find a safe and hopeful life. We are called to love.

Called to charity. Called to service. It is service to those in need that is the path leading us to Christ.

Lent sets us on a spiritual journey of renewal with heightened awareness of the Lord’s unconditional and unyielding love for us. Lent is our fresh start to vigorously live our faith with love and charity to our family members, friends, neighbors -- in short, to everyone.

To fully share in the spiritual reawakening that is the Lenten journey, we must embrace prayer, the reception of the Sacraments - especially the Eucharist and Penance, the reading of Sacred Scripture, the Stations of the Cross, the Rosary, acts of charity and Corporal Works of Mercy, acts of self-denial and outreach to the poor and suffering.

“

Lent sets us on a spiritual journey of renewal with heightened awareness of the Lord’s unconditional and unyielding love for us.

”

Through the Lenten experience, we are certain to more fully realize the abiding presence of God’s love in our life, and our need to share His love with others. It is through this realization that we become more energized to be authentic disciples of Jesus Christ. True to our living discipleship, we find commitment to uphold the sacred dignity of every person, born and unborn, rich and poor, of every race, creed and origin. We are one family in Christ.

These revealing forty days of Lenten observance, ultimately prepare us for the celebration of the

Paschal Mystery, the Lord’s Passion, Death and Resurrection. We embark in a real sense on a spiritual pilgrimage to Easter. We relive the gracefilled occasion of the Last Supper. We experience the agony of Jesus’s crucifixion and death for us on the Cross. We try to comprehend the victory of His Resurrection.

The glory of Easter awaits each of us who make the Lenten journey to the Father by walking the way of His Son, Jesus. Lent is our time to change and become more like Christ by experiencing the unyielding tenacity of His love that endures suffering and torture and His life that is truly lived and given for others. Lent is our new beginning opportunity to lead a fulfilling life by living, loving and serving as Jesus did.

The Cross is our way to holiness, our means of true solidarity with God and one another. The Cross is our only means of achieving the new life promised us through Jesus’ victory over sin and death in His victorious Resurrection.

Through a well-lived Lent, may we come to the glory of Easter and may we discover new life in Christ.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Bishop Michael R. Cote

FEBRUARY 2018

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ,

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Lent: The Season of New Beginnings

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THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

Que La Fé Muestre El Camino Cuaresma: Temporada de nuevos comienzos

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo,

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En enero, en mi columna de Año Nuevo hablé de cómo “Dios se especializa en nuevos comienzos”. A medida que nos acercamos al tiempo sagrado de la Cuaresma, encontramos una extraordinaria oportunidad para reconocer nuestra necesidad de reformar y renovar nuestras vidas a la luz del Evangelio. Durante la Cuaresma, nuestra penitencia, disciplina y sacrificio nos preparan para apreciar nuevamente que en Jesucristo, Dios nos dio a su Hijo unigénito que entregó su vida por nosotros y por nuestra salvación. Mientras contemplamos en oración este gran acto de amor que la humanidad ha conocido y a medida que el Señor llena nuestros corazones y nosotros acogemos su vida, la Cuaresma nos ofrece un nuevo comienzo.

Para compartir completamente en la vida de Jesús, debemos caminar con Él a Jerusalén, al Calvario y a la Resurrección. Este camino requiere reflexión sobre nuestras propias vidas y la forma en que estamos llamados a servir al Señor y a los demás. Nuestra observancia de la Cuaresma nos hace más conscientes de la presencia de Jesús en nuestras vidas y nos permite crecer en la fe y en el amor mientras reunimos la fortaleza para servir a los demás.

Vivimos en un tiempo que nos llama como fieles discípulos a responder a las necesidades urgentes de los vulnerables, los agobiados, los hambrientos, los solitarios, los inmigrantes y refugiados que arriesgan todo para encontrar una vida segura y llena de esperanza. Estamos llamados a amar.

Llamados a la caridad. Llamados al servicio. El servicio de aquellos en necesidad es el camino

que nos lleva a Cristo. La Cuaresma nos pone en un viaje espiritual de renovación con una mayor conciencia del amor incondicional e inflexible del Señor por nosotros. La Cuaresma es nuestro nuevo comienzo para vivir vigorosamente nuestra fe con amor y caridad para miembros de nuestra familia, amigos, vecinos- en resumen, para todos.

Para compartir plenamente el despertar espiritual que es el viaje Cuaresmal, debemos incluir la oración, la recepción de los Sacramentosespecialmente la Eucaristía y la Penitencia, la lectura de las Sagradas Escrituras, el Viacrucis, el Rosario, los actos de caridad y las Obras Corporales de misericordia, los actos de auto negación y alcance a los pobres y al sufrimiento.

A través de la experiencia de Cuaresma, estamos seguros de realizar más plenamente la presencia permanente del amor de Dios en nuestra vida, y nuestra necesidad de compartir Su amor con los demás. Es a través de esta realización que tenemos más energía para ser auténticos discípulos de Jesucristo. Fieles a nuestro discipulado vivo, encontramos el compromiso de mantener la sagrada dignidad de cada persona, nacida y no nacida, rica y pobre, de cada raza, credo y origen.

Somos una familia en Cristo.

En última instancia, estos cuarenta días reveladores de la observancia de la Cuaresma, nos preparan para la celebración del Misterio Pascual, la Pasión del Señor, la Muerte y la Resurrección. Nos embarcamos en un sentido real en una peregrinación espiritual hacia la Pascua. Revivimos la ocasión llena de gracia de la Última Cena. Experimentamos la agonía de la crucifixión y muerte de Jesús por nosotros en la Cruz. Tratamos de comprender la victoria de Su Resurrección.

La gloria de la Pascua nos espera a cada uno de nosotros quienes hacemos el viaje Cuaresmal al Padre caminando el camino de Su Hijo, Jesús. La Cuaresma es nuestro tiempo para cambiar y llegar a ser más como Cristo al experimentar la tenacidad inflexible de su amor que soporta el sufrimiento y la tortura, y su vida que es verdaderamente vivida y dada por los demás. La Cuaresma es nuestra nueva oportunidad de comenzar a llevar una vida plena viviendo, amando y sirviendo como lo hizo Jesús.

La cruz es nuestro camino a la santidad, nuestro medio de verdadera solidaridad con Dios y con los demás. La cruz es nuestro único medio para lograr la nueva vida que nos prometió a través de la victoria de Jesús sobre el pecado y la muerte en su victoriosa resurrección.

Que podamos llegar a la gloria de la Pascua y que descubramos una nueva vida en Cristo, a través de una Cuaresma bien vivida.

Atentamente en Cristo,

Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich

Our DIOCESE Mr. Larry Barile First year Theology, Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, Weston, Massachusetts.

Mr. Michael Castiblanco Third Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Seminary Emmitsburg, Maryland

Deacon Ronald Blank Fourth year -Theology, Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, Weston, Massachusetts.

“A Holy Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 76 Years of Excellence in Catholic Education ~ Grades K-8 ~

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MR. Michael Bovino Second year - Theology, Mount Saint Mary Seminary, Emmitsburg, Maryland.

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

Mr. Dharen Brochero UnderGrad/ Philosophy Major Mount St. Mary’s Seminary Emmitsburg, Maryland

By early February, I do hope to be in the final process of going through applications of three men who have been applying for our diocesan sponsorship to study for the priesthood beginning next fall. Please keep these men in your prayers, and hopefully we will be making an announcement soon to introduce them to the whole diocesan family.

Other intentions I ask you to keep in your daily prayers are our transitional deacons, Ron Blank and Frank Gilbert as they are both in their Deacon Frank Gilbert Fourth year - Theology, Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary, Weston, Massachusetts.

T UNCEM

Holy Hour for Vocations

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

February 15 March 15 St. John Our Lady of Perpetual Help Montville Quaker Hill Father Robert Buongirno Father Robert Buongirno 6-7pm 6-7pm

www.God-Calls.com

final semester of major seminary studies and hope to be called to priestly ordination this coming June.

Please keep seminarian Michael Castiblanco in your prayers as he desires and awaits to be called to ordination as a transitional deacon this spring. Finally, please keep Ruben Sanchez in your prayers as he will begin the process of finalizing his complete application for sponsorship by the diocese and is hoping to be Mr. Normand Laflamme First year - Theology, Mount Saint Mary Seminary, Emmitsburg, Maryland

able to apply to seminary for this coming fall.

As always, and on behalf of Bishop Cote, our seminarians and myself, thank you all for your continued prayers for our seminarians, priests and religious here in the diocese.

We always need your prayers! Lent begins soon. February 14th is Ash Wednesday!

Mr. Jacob Ramos Second year - Philosophy, Mount Saint Mary Seminary, Emmitsburg, Maryland.

Ruben Sanchez UCAELI Program UCONN/Storrs

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

The distinguished speakers included: Sister Bethany Madonna from the Sisters of Life, Dr. Edward Sri, a professor of theology at the Augustine Institute in Denver,

As we now move forward in 2018, please continue to keep all of our seminarians in your prayers.

During the weekend of January 6&7, five of them returned to Mount St. Mary to begin their semester with a silent retreat. The three studying in Massachusetts at Pope St. John XXIII returned a little later in January, and Ruben Sanchez returned from visiting his family in Colombia.

NO

C ES A N

FEBRUARY 2018

This past January, I had the opportunity to again attend a student leadership summit with the Fellowship of Catholic University Students, FOCUS, in Chicago from January 2 - 6. There was a group again attending from UCONN in Storrs, and for our first time as a diocese we had two of our seminarians in attendance, Normand LaFlamme and Michael Bovino. I also sponsored a young man, Ted Kuderko, a high school junior from St. Bridget of Kildare Parish in Moodus where I am pastor.

In total, there were approximately 9,000 people in attendance including the many religious orders and Catholic Ministry groups from across the country. All of the students, campus ministry personnel and many parish laypeople had the opportunity to attend and share in different tracks of New Evangelization training, as well as listening to national speakers on the subject.

Colorado and national speaker and writer of several best selling books, Curtis Martin, the founder of Focus, Bishop Robert Barron an auxiliary Bishop of Los Angeles California and founder of Word On Fire, Father Sean Kilcawley, a nationally well know speaker on the Theology of the Body, Dr. Mary Healy, a professor at Sacred Heart Major Seminary in Detroit and many, many others.

AN

HAPPY NEW YEAR!! I hope that by the time you are reading this we have come back to more normal earthlike temperatures instead of being stuck in weather even colder than Mars!

DIO

EN

Father Gregory Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations

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ellor

Our DIOCESE

In Memorium

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Reverend Anthony P. Gruber

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West Hartford - Reverend Anthony P. Gruber, 81, passed away peacefully at St. Mary Home in West Hartford on Saturday, January 13, 2018. Born in the Mayfair section of Philadelphia, Father Tony was the beloved son of Anthony and Emma Gruber. He received his Bachelor and Master degrees in Sacred Theology from The Catholic University of America and was ordained on June 6, 1970 at St. Patrick Cathedral in Norwich by The Most Reverend Vincent J. Hines, Bishop of Norwich. Father Tony served the spiritual needs of the Norwich Diocese for 47 years. He served in several parishes throughout the Diocese as well as in the Diocesan Finance Office, and on various boards and committees. Father Tony was very instrumental in developing what is now The Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti, and greatly enjoyed the people of Haiti, travelling there annually for many years. He also enjoyed crossword puzzles, gatherings with family and friends, and summer trips to Ocean City, NJ. During his retirement in Niantic, he was an active member of St. Agnes parish and ministered at the local prison. He is survived by his sister Antoinette Wynn, 14 nephews and nieces. He is pre-deceased by his parents and dear sisters Mary Snyder and Loretta Plummer.

In lieu of flowers, donations may be made in his memory to The Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti Education Fund or Paula Thybulle’s Home for Girls.

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

CLERGY APPOINTMENT

Reverend Jozef Olczak, OSPPE, new to the Diocese, as Parochial Vicar, Saint Joseph Parish, Rockville.

Effective: December 19, 2017.

Sister Elissa Rinere, C.P., J.C.D., Chancellor

Independently Owned and Operated Since 1881

Steve Bennardo

Owner/Funeral Director 433 Main Street, Danielson, CT

25 Main Street, Central Village, CT

860-774-3284

860-564-2147

Members of Saint Theresa Guild Celebrating the 80th Anniversary of the Founding by Reverend John Kane in 1937

S

aint Theresa Guild has been continuously active since 1937. In the early years, members made Baptismal robes, vestments, and altar clothes. One of the earliest donations was a stained glass window in 1939 for the new church which had its first Mass in 1931. A statue of Saint Theresa, which stands next to the rectory, was donated in 1957.

The Guild also donated items for the kitchen: a dishwasher, dishes, silverware, and table and chairs for the hall Recently they donated the polished brass cover for the Book of The Gospels in 2009 and a moveable Baptismal Font in 2012. A censer for incense has recently been ordered.

Every year the members fill themed baskets for a raffle at the Feast in May. New items of clothing are

Saint Theresa Guild – Saint Sebastian Church, Middletown, 80th Anniversary provided for Veterans at Christmas; Baby items for the NDCCW Layette Program and children’s books for NCCW Children’s Literacy project. A

regular collection is taken at meetings for Water for Life and sent to Catholic Relief Services. Members keep busy knitting or crocheting prayer shawls

and chemo caps. The Guild recently collected recipes from parishioners and produced an all Italian cookbook “MANGIA!” Since it is a 3–ring notebook format, favorite family recipes can be added.

In 1953, Connecticut was divided into three Dioceses: Archdiocese of Hartford, Bridgeport and Norwich.

Bishop Flannigan designated the Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women (NDCCW) as the official women’s organization for the Diocese, which then became affiliated with the National Council of Catholic Women (NCCW). Saint Theresa Guild became affiliated with Norwich Diocesan CCW and NCCW. As younger women join the Guild, the hope is that they will help celebrate the 90th Anniversary in 2027 and the 100th in 2037!

Our DIOCESE

Profile of a Priest

Where are you from originally?

I am a Connecticut boy, born and raised in Hartford where I attended St. Peter’s Grammar and South Catholic High Schools. My journey to the priesthood was not what one would ordinarily expect. My path has led me through 30+ years of working in the banking industry and a marriage which blessed me with three fantastic children.

Who was your biggest influence for entering the priesthood?

My biggest influence is Jesus himself and looking at how he lived his life, accepting everyone for who they are and seeing the good in them. This spoke very strongly to me. I looked at His world that could be and that was what I wanted for my kids and their kids in the future. But wanting it wasn’t enough; I felt that I needed to be part of the change of trying to bring God back to the world.

Three other strong influences that brought me to where I am today: Father Tom Gaffney of the Archdiocese of Hartford, who was a mentor when I was at St. Peter; Father Michael Smith of Norwich, who was my pastor, mentor and friend; and Sister Judy Fortune, RSM, who was my Spiritual Director for many years. She helped me see what God was saying to me, and through prayer and scripture, helped me find the courage to make this move to the priesthood.

What one word would describe your family?

Understanding. My family was fairly large with eight children and an age span of 23 years. Our folks were staunch Irish Catholics both having come from Ireland. They worked hard to make sure we each had a strong faith base to get us through life. Over time the family grew through

marriages and not one married an Irish Catholic.

The in-laws ranged from Italian Catholic, to Greek Orthodox, to a couple of different Protestant denominations to Jewish. With all the diversity there was never any friction because of religion and everyone was understanding of different observances and traditions. I think this understanding made my own children more easily understand and be excited for me on my decision to enter the priesthood.

What do you enjoy doing in your leisure time?

Reading and catching up on TV shows that I’ve missed.

What else would you like people to know about you?

I spent over three years arguing with myself about the priesthood and if I was really being called and doubted that God couldn’t find someone better. Looking back, that was time that I wasted. I don’t know the final plan He has for me yet or the gifts He sees in me that I don’t see in myself, but I can say that despite all the work, other than my children, nothing has made me happier than being a priest.

What do you like most about being a priest?

There are many things I do as a priest that I find very fulfilling. Celebrating Mass and bringing God in the Eucharist to people is an unbelievable privilege that is overwhelming when I stop and think about it. But what I like best as a priest is being there when people need me most, and being a conduit for God’s comfort, grace and peace when someone is hurting. There are so many opportunities to provide a little healing to

people. It can be as simple as giving a blessing, or saying a quick prayer with someone after Mass.

Through the Sacrament of Reconciliation when we are working to repair a relationship with God, Christ uses my voice for others to hear His words of absolution and put their mind and heart at ease. It may be during nursing home or hospital visits when just the presence of a priest can bring someone peace. Often it’s just taking the time to listen and reassure someone that whatever has happened in their life, God is a Father who always loves them and they are never alone.

Most fulfilling for me is being able to see healing occur when I work with a family upon the death of a loved one. This is probably the one area that concerned me most, that I would be at a total loss and would not have anything to bring the grieving.

But God is good and always there providing the right words – words of hope, comfort, and love.

Whatever the circumstance, at those times when I physically see someone’s pain ease or struggle lighten, I know that I have served them and God well.

What are the current positions you hold/ committees with which you are involved?

I am the Parochial Vicar at Most Holy Trinity Parish, Pomfret; St. Joseph Parish, North Grosvenordale; St. Mary Church of the Visitation Parish, Putnam; St. Stephen Parish, Quinebaug; Confessor for the Daughters of the Holy Spirit Convent, Putnam; a member of the board and head of the Financial Committee of St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale; and Tribunal Associate.

Look for this column every month to learn more about the priests in the Norwich Diocese

FEBRUARY 2018

By Marianne Nicholas

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Father Tom Griffin Parochial Vicar, Most Holy Trinity Parish, Pomfret; St. Joseph Parish, North Grosvenordale; St. Mary Church of the Visitation Parish, Putnam; St. Stephen Parish, Quinebaug Ordination date: June 25, 2016

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Our DIOCESE

Embracing change. Pulling together.

Strengthening parish life going forward By: Michael Strammiello

O

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

February 1, 2018 --

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ver the past few days, I have had the opportunity and the pleasure of visiting the pastors of the newly merged parishes first announced nine months ago as part of the ongoing diocesan pastoral planning. For those of us who may at times over-rely on digital technology to communicate, visiting each of the parishes was a pleasant reminder that there is still no substitute for in-person conversation. Nor is there a true substitute for driving through the beautiful countryside of the Diocese -- passing by the miles of hand-placed stone walls, weathered farms and textile mills still quietly standing alongside rushing streams and falls. It was an invigorating and educational experience for me and for Wayne Gignac as we set out to meet with the pastors of the newly merged parishes as they are starting to settle into their joined communities of faith.

From our first conversation with Father John O’Neill, Pastor of Saint James Parish in Danielson, we were taken back in history to the mid-19th century when Saint James Parish was first formed and how, over the next 90 years, missions were added in Dayville, Ballouville, Sterling, Brooklyn and Hampton. In recent years, shifting demographics, infrastructure costs, limited numbers of available priests and other realities have led to Saint James returning as the central parish in the surrounding area. It has been a full circle. All a reminder that, actually, parish restructuring has been

with us for centuries, not a sudden development in how to best serve parishioners as conditions evolve.

When visiting with Father Tadeusz Zadorozny, Pastor of All Hallows in Moosup, he too spoke of the history of a once booming mill town community that has been in the process of adjusting and reestablishing itself. Here again, the history of change and readjustment is the nature of the community and, in turn, has a clear impact on how the Church can best adjust to meet its mission to share and live the Gospel. All Hallows had already expanded its pastoral reach having been previously yoked with Saint John the Apostle in Plainfield and Saint Augustine in Canterbury.

Having Sacred Heart in Wauregan merge with a parish still in transition has, as Father Tad noted, been good timing. In fact, Father Tad shared that there are discussions ongoing at

the pastoral council level, to consider naming their newly aligned community of faith.

One possibility is to honor Saint Brother Andre in the naming of the community.

Another possibility is to evoke the name of Saint Anne.

Discussions are ongoing.

Father Tad looks forward to having incoming parishioners becoming involved with the many active ministries of the parish, including their community kitchen, food pantry, Religious education and cooperative activities with the Knights of Columbus.

In speaking with Father Richard Ricard, Pastor of The Catholic Community of Saint Bernard and Saint Matthew in Rockville, it was quickly obvious that the timing is also good for Sacred Heart in Vernon to be joining in the continuing transition of the previously yoked parishes, under Father Rick’s leadership.

Father Rick, and each pastor we visited, recognizes the emotional and deep sentimental family attachments to one’s church. Moving into a newly combined parish can be unsettling and create feelings of separation, of sadness. Knowing this, the receiving pastors extended an open-arms welcome in a number of ways.

Father Rick wrote a welcoming letter in October to the Sacred Heart parishioners; he also took the opportunity to celebrate Mass at Sacred Heart and extend a welcome

Our DIOCESE

Father John O’Neill

Father Grzegorz Jednaki Father Richard Ricard

Photo Credit: Saint Bernard Photography Ministry these are the there, bringing members of statue of Saint Jude now placed the pastoral to the right of the church entrance as council as “ambassadors” with him it customarily was located at Saint to provide a parishioner perspective; held a ministry fair for all; and invited Jude Church; the statue of the Blessed Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Virgin Mary with candles to light at her feet; and the altar from Saint Jude Communion and altar servers to placed in one of the primary alcoves. consider serving the joined parishes.

Father further explained that they As pictured, Father Rick has also arranged for the original Sacred Heart have rescheduled the earlier Sunday Mass to 9:00 a.m. to coincide with the roof-top cross to be given prominent previous Mass schedule at Saint Jude, placement in the Parish Center. followed by the “coffee and donuts” Father Grzegorz Jednaki, Pastor of ministry -- a tradition at Saint Jude.

Saint Philip the Apostle Church in We very much appreciated the story of Ashford previously yoked with Saint how Father Greg invited parishioners Jude, Willington, transferred several from Saint Philip to join him at an precious religious artifacts from Saint October Mass at Saint Jude to show Jude over to Saint Philip. Among

support for their soon to be merged parishioners. Over 60 Saint Philip’s parishioners joined him in showing support in a welcoming spirit.

Listening to the Pastors kind enough to find time in their busy schedules to speak with us, we could feel the synergy across all the parishes with Bishop Cote’s welcoming message at the Masses dedicated to the newly joined parishes, “My hope is that you come into your new parish less touched by the sadness of disruption

or change and more with a spirit of deep faith and trust in God’s guidance for you and for our diocese.”

As we were leaving the rectory at All Hallows, I couldn’t help but notice the grandfather clock near the stairwell. It was a subtle reminder that time passes.

Change is a constant. It comes with significant value to the life of a Christian. The Christian life is a journey forward with His grace to persevere and to thrive in our faith. As Bishop Côte assures us, “Faith will lead the way.”

FEBRUARY 2018

Photos by Wayne Gignac

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Father Tadeusz Zadorozny

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“By means of the Funeral Rites, it has been the practice of the Church, as a tender Mother,…to commend the dead to God…and to give witness to its own faith in the future resurrection of the Baptized with Christ.”

Dear Friends,

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It is with great Any sadness we must Onethat In-Stock Iteminform you that Merciful Saviour Gift ShopExpires will3/20/2018. closeOneitsCoupon doors within the next few months.

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We would like to Must thank all who have supported us during the last 21 years (including our wonderful staff) as we have been abundantly We carry: Rosary Beads, Jewelry, Music, Books, Bibles, Indoor & Outdoor Statues, Crucifixes, blessed by your friendship, prayers, love and many beautiful acts of Wall Crosses/Crucifixes, Eternal Lights & Candles, Greeting Cards for all occasions, Missals, Prayer kindness.

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Buy One Get One Free on all Greeting Cards.*

BEYOND THE FRONT LINES KNIGHTS OF COLUMBUS April 6, 2017-

MUSEUM

Dec. 30, 2018

1 State Street, New Haven • 203-865-0400 • kofcmuseum.org • Free admission & parking

*1st Communion, Confirmation, Baptism, New Baby, RCIA, Reconciliation, Lent, Easter, Mother’s Day, Father’s Day, Anniversaries, Weddings, Graduations, Ordinations, Jublilees, and Christmas.

Our DIOCESE T

TELEVISION MASS March 7, 2017

Bishop Michael R. Cote, D.D.

At 10:00am

Channel 11, WCCT Comcast Channel 20, WTXX Charter

8 Week Life in the Spirit Seminar Plan Ahead – Beginning in March 1½ hours each week Monday evenings 7-8:30pm, Spiritual Renewal Center An opportunity for a “Conversion Experience!”

Healing Mass – York Correctional Facility Second Saturday’s, 1pm Niantic Individual Prayer and Anointing

Weekly Prayer Meetings

Prices starting at $2,499 ~ with Airfare Included from anywhere in the USA

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; Peru; Domestic Destinations; Columbia; Brazil; Argentina; etc…

We also specialize in custom trips for Bishops, Priests, and Deacons.

Call us 24/7 508-340-9370 Hablamos Español 855-842-8001 www.proximotravel.com anthony@proximotravel.com

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

Every Tuesday, 2pm at Spiritual Renewal Center Individual Prayer and Anointing

Ministry Fair – Diocese of Norwich Sunday, February 25 at 11am The Mystic Marriott Hotel, 625 North Rd., Mystic, Come see the great services that our Diocesan Ministries offer.

Spiritual Renewal Services

11 Bath Street • Norwich, CT 06360 Phone: 860-887-0702

FUNERAL HOMES

12 Ocean Avenue New London, CT 860-443-1871 443-1871

48 Grand Street Niantic, CT 860-739-6112 739-6112

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| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

2nd and 4th Monday’s at 2pm.

February 12 & 26 March 12 & 26 Individual Prayer and Anointing Spiritual Renewal Center

UNCEM

FEBRUARY 2018

Masses of Healing and Hope

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You (your name) are the salt of the Earth. But, if salt loses its taste, it is no longer good for anything – but to be thrown out - - - You (your name) are the Light of the World. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden (neither can you!) Nor do they LIGHT a LAMP and put it under a bushel basket… just so, Your LIGHT (your example) must shine before OTHERS, so that they may see YOUR GOOD DEEDS (the reflection of the Holy Spirit in You!) and Glorify Your HEAVENLY FATHER IN HEAVEN!” – Matthew 5:13

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Our DIOCESE

Outreach to Haiti Board Meets in Haiti

By Daniel O’Sullivan, Executive Director

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

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he Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti (OTH) Board had its December meeting in Haiti, from Nov 30 to Dec. 3, 2017. The Board meets quarterly, and every other year, a Board meeting is in Haiti. This allows the Board to maintain the connection to Haiti, and allows them to maintain a connection with the staff. All Board members pay their own way to Haiti, and contribute to the on-site cost of their visit, so that donations meant to help Haitians are not used for this trip.

Just prior to the Board meeting, Executive Director Dan O’Sullivan signed contracts for demolition work of the remaining structures destroyed in the earthquakes, and

the final, detailed design work for the new clinic and mission house the Norwich Outreach Center. Two days later demolition started, and the building was largely demolished, with a lot of material removal and leveling of the site remaining to be done.

The Board had a packed schedule - visiting the OTH clinic, two of the schools that children sponsored

by OTH donors attend (Nouveau College Concordia (3 students) and the Institution Mixte Foyer Chrétien (IMFC) (15 students), a twinned parish (Ste Anne de Saintaard), viewing some of the new boats built with hurricane relief money donated to Outreach (the fishing community of Saintaard), a meeting

and celebration with staff in Haiti, a meeting with post-secondary students in the education program, a meeting with the construction management firm for the new building and the contractors, and, on Sunday morning, Mass at Citi Militaire, a parish twinned with St Mark’s in Westbrook.

These were all very uplifting as we saw the progress and excitement the programs generate.

All of this was, in addition to a visioning exercise to look toward to OTH future priorities, focused on regular quarterly board meeting business.

One other visit was to the recently finished earthquake memorial just North of Port-au-Prince. It is on the site of the main mass grave where

tens of thousands of bodies were trucked and dumped into a huge pit after the earthquake. Most were not able to be identified. This massive loss of life and reminder of all the personal and material loss was very sobering, but also a reminder of potential as we drove around and saw the progress from the earthquake devastation.

While the time in Haiti was important to stay connected with staff, see our programs first-hand, and stay connected with Haiti generally, it was equally important to reground us spiritually and emotionally for our mission to serve the people of Haiti in the spirit and values of the Gospel.

Bishop Cote Installs Four Men to the Ministry of Acolyte

MOODUS - Deacon Michael Puscas, Deacon Octavio Flores and Deacon Jorge Escalona prayerfully look on as Bishop Michael R. Cote confers the Ministry of Acolyte to Brian Jones, who along with Deacon Candidates Wayne Gignac, Kim Thompson and Dan D’Amelio are discerning a call to the Permanent Diaconate. The Rite took place at Saint Bridget of Kildare Church on Sunday, January 14th as part of the 10:30am Mass.

Photo by Sylvia DeMore

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PLEASE PLEDGE YOUR SUPPORT FEBRUARY 14 - APRIL 1

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Diocese Of Norwich 1953 - 2018

197 Broadway • Norwich, CT 06360 • 860-886-1928 • www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

of Nor ese w c o

FEBRUARY 2018

Standing Together To Build The Future

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Our DIOCESE Pope’s Prayer Intention for Truthful Communication Lord make us instruments of your peace.

Help us to recognize the evil latent in a communication that does not build communion.

Help us to remove the venom from our judgments.

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Help us to speak about others as our brothers and sisters.

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You are faithful and trustworthy; may our words be seeds of goodness for the world: Where there is shouting, let us practice listening; Where there is confusion, let us inspire harmony; Where there is ambiguity, let us bring clarity; Where there is exclusion, let us offer solidarity; Where there is sensationalism, let us use sobriety; Where there is superficiality, let us raise real questions; Where there is prejudice, let us awaken trust; Where there is hostility, let us bring respect; Where there is falsehood, let us bring truth.

Amen.

Beginning Experience Weekend

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin

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wo years after the death of her husband of 41 years, Maureen Andryuk still felt empty, sad, emotionally weak and cried easily. She called it “providential” that she saw a notice in her church bulletin for a Beginning Experience weekend and decided to attend. That weekend, she said, “transformed my life.”

Transformative is the same word Yvonne Stoops used to describe her Beginning Experience weekend. Divorced for nearly 10 years, Stoops saw herself as a failure as a result of the break-up of her 12-year marriage. When her parish deacon asked her to spearhead a support group for the divorced and separated at her church, she told him, “You’ve got the wrong person.”

A priest suggested she attend a Beginning Experience weekend in Long Island to help her resolve some of the negative feelings she was experiencing.

That weekend, she said, “Was life-changing.” She returned home to Connecticut committed to spreading the word about the value of her experience.

“Everyone needs to know about

this,” she told herself. Today, Stoops is the Executive Director of Beginning Experience for all of North America, Europe and Asia.

Beginning Experience is a weekend for those who have lost the marriage relationship either through death, separation or divorce and want to resolve the pain and grief of that loss and create a more peace-filled future. It helps participants bring healing and closure for the anger and grief they are experiencing, said Stoops. It is Catholic-based and includes the opportunity for participants to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation and attend Mass.

The weekend consists of a series of presentations given by trained peer ministers who have gone through the weekend themselves and share their own experiences of grief, healing and closure. Presentations are given by both a widowed and a divorced person who share their personal yet different perspectives on similar types of feelings. Each talk is followed by personal, private reflection for participants to write on a series of guided questions geared toward helping them identify the feelings they are experiencing. This is followed by small group sharing in which

sharing is encouraged but not mandatory, Stoops said.

It is applicable to the divorced, separated and widowed in that all three share the same types of questions and feelings of grief.

“Each is experiencing the end of a marriage…they are grieving the dreams that aren’t going to be now, the disappointments and sadness they feel at facing the future alone and no longer as part of a couple,” Stoops said.

The weekend helped Stoops identify and name the many unexpressed feelings she was experiencing in regard to her marriage. She learned a lot about herself and was able to take responsibility for her part in the break-down of her marriage.

She said the weekend is most helpful to those people who are ready for a new beginning in their lives and not for the newly grieving.

The next Beginning Experience weekend in Connecticut is May 4-6 at St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield, CT. The cost of the weekend is $265 which includes two nights lodging, meals, program and materials as well as a follow-up reunion. For more information about the weekend, call Beth at 860-373-8202 or Victoria at 860-993-2384 or visit www.beginningexperience.org.

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8th Annual

Norwich Women’s Conference Welcome women of all ages

There are none that can withstand your power. O Mar� conceived without sin, pray for us who have recourse to thee.

Holy Mar�, I place this cause in your hands.

~ MDP ~

Called to Joy!

Saturday, April 14, 2018, 8:30-3:30pm St. Bernard High School, Uncasville Norwich, CT (860) 887-7468 www.mmpct.com New London, CT (860) 701-9171 www.mmpnl.com

Faith, fun and more!

Keynote Speaker -- ValLimar Jansen

Workshop Choices: 1) Parenting Catholic Children 2) Feminine Genius 3) Adoration: Ritual and Practice 4) Catholic Women: Called to More 5) Surviving Divorce 6) Prayer in a Busy World 7) Faith in Action: Serving Others 8) Empty Nest: Sharing Gifts and Talents

9) Mary: Not a Gentle Woman 10) Pope Francis: The Joy of Love 11) Why go to Church?

12) Today’s Lessons from Scripture Stories of Long Ago 13) Music and Movement: Unlocking your Spirituality 14) Music and the message: women’s issues 15) Using technology in your Prayer Life

Registration fee Workshops options are first come first served basis.

Deadline for registration March 20, 2018

By March 17, 2017...$30 After March 17, 2017...$40 Students... $20

For more information and a registration form visit www.norwichdiocese.org or contact the Office of Faith Events at 860-848-2237 ext 304

Donate your unwanted car, truck, suv, boat or camper today!

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Co-sponsored by: Office of Faith Events and Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

O Most Beautif�l Flower of Mt. Car�el, Fr�itf�l Vine, Splendor of Heaven, Blessed Mother of the Son of God, Immaculate Virgin, assist me in my necessit�. O Star of the Sea, help me and show me herein you are my Mother. O Holy Mar�, Mother of God, Queen of Heaven and Ear�h, I humbly beseech you f�om the bot�om of my hear� to succor me in my necessit�.

parkermemorials@yahoo.com

FEBRUARY 2018

Prayer to the Blessed Virgin Mar�

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nd because Christ rose from the dead and conquered death… with certainty, the pro-life movement will one day win the battle for the unborn.

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

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MARCHING – Father Frank Pavone

Article by: Father Brian Maxwell, Comments by: Diocese of Norwich Marchers he March for Life this year was incredible! We had a great group Next, we processed with our peaceful as we traveled the arduos 28-hour brothers and sisters from all over the Country roundtrip to make our stand for to the National Mall to hear the March For “Choosing Life” at the largest Life Rally. After our group worked it’s way Pro-Life Event in the World! Our contingent up front near the stage, we were treated included many Catholic students from UCONN, with incredible talks by several National their FOCUS Campus Ministers, Young Adults Pro-Life speakers. Almost unthinkable a from Eastern CT, and we were very blessed to couple of years back, we also were addressed have 6 Religious Sisters accompany us.

by Speaker of the House Paul Ryan, Vice President Pence, and President Trump! All A beautiful, sunny warm day provided for with strong messages and commitment to a pleasant outside day of events following an defending the Sanctity of Life and protection energy-filled start in Washington’s Downtown of the unborn! Wow, to see this live and in Arena where we participated in the Archdiocese person was so powerful and it made us all of Washington’s Youth Rally and Mass. With feel like things are moving forward and the over 20,000 Young People, hundred’s of end to this taking of innocent human life Seminarians and Religious, Deacons, Priests, could become a reality in the near future!

Bishops, Cardinals, and even the Papal Nuncio, What a message of hope ! And Sister Bethany we listened to powerful speakers, sang Praise Madonna of the Sisters of Life shared heartand Worship music and participated in a very melting stories and witnessed with her life-giving, inspirational Mass. beautiful heart to the care her community

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t was incredible to witness people of all generations joined together to support and protect God’s greatest treasure, us, human life…Knowing our Gov’t. officials want to protect life brought us much hope for the future of this Country.”

– Two UCONN students

“I

was moved to tears to be a Katie revealed: part of the largest human rights demonstration in the world. There is so much hope!”

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he fact that the March was Kelly shared: driven by forces of faith and love made it all the more powerful to me. I especially enjoyed the diversity of people present…We are all joined forces under 1 flag and 1 God to walk together and represent solidarity and hope for all lives affected by abortion.”

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oday’s events gave me other Alex added: realizations as well. While I hope and pray that our government and the people around me come to better support life, I absolutely must look inward too. I have been and will continue to be forced to self-reflect and better support life in all my thoughts and actions.”

“We witnessed the uniting of all types of

people with different beliefs & stand up for all of God’s children at all stages of life.”

– Seth FOCUS Missionary

Sister a gift to presen little o

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“I

er Alexandria, SCMC included: was o be able to do something for all those babies t was so heartwarming to be surrounded by e who feel as I do and are motivated by God’s love.”

Each March strengthens my resolve to be and to advocate for life in all its forms…”

– Sister Mary Jude

“This has been such an impactful day…

aluable…I’m ready to go out into the world, ed with the love of God and able to spread the Truth of His Word.” – Mateo

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helle wrote: … think that as a result of p I will try harder to promote prolife views on at UCONN, but also to act in a loving way to all people !”

provides to expectant & new mothers & their babies !

A little after 1PM, The March For Life got underway. Beginning at the foot of Constitution Ave., our group joined in with so many different walks of life to form an incredible swarm of marchers that didn’t end in either direction as far as the eye could see. As we began heading up the hill to the Capital, in was a pleasant surprise to hear our college group initiate the praying of the Rosary. In fact, 4 of the students I spoke with are either in the application process or seriously discerning religious life (young men and women).

Finally, as we reached the Supreme Court, we concluded our 11 hours of

Prayer and Witness for Life and headed over to Union Station to meet up with our Dattco Coach and embark on the journey home.

What a wonderful experience. It was almost a perfect day, except, we can’t celebrate until we win this battle once and for all.

And the long bus ride home wasn’t that bad as we prayed and napped, and then God blessed our youth with His Joy and the UCONN group sang songs played off their phones onto one of those new wireless mini-speakers and laughed and had fun the rest of the night all the way back to CT!

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

“I

Veronica Rose SCMC wrote: t was truly spend the day speaking for the unborn by our nce alone. The Lord lays down his life for His ones. What a gift to lay down our lives in this small way today.” yone was peace-filled and joy-filled. You float eeing smiling people and groups and you feel like everyone could be your family!

– Becky

2018!

FEBRUARY 2018

for life

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Our DIOCESE

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich, Inc. Annual Report 2017

Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich Annual Report Income/Expense Charts Annual Report Income/Expense Charts 2017 2017

By Edward J. Tessman, Executive Director 2017 was a banner year for Catholic Charities and we continued to embark on an aggressive campaign to provide un-paralleled levels of Quality and Services to those who come to us seeking help and hope. The agency effectively achieved accreditation status through the Council on Accreditation and restructured in an effort to better support our staff and those we serve.

Communication and transparency has been key to our success and will continue to be. Catholic Charities is charting a course of success and will continue down this path in 2018.

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Below is a summary of our 2017 annual activity:

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50,930 total number of residents of Eastern Connecticut served regardless of race, religion or national origin who accessed Catholic Charities’ services.

73% of our clients were female 27% of our clients were male 20% of our clients were under the age of 18 76% of our clients were non-Catholic 85% of our clients had an annual income of less than $15,000 261 Thanksgiving Baskets distributed to families in need 156 Families helped through “A Very Giving Christmas” 3,557 adults and children were served through our Emergency Basic Needs program, accessing 3,990 services. Our Emergency Food Pantries distributed over 45,266 meals to families throughout Eastern Connecticut.

Total Emergency Basic Needs Direct Relief Provided $177,803.00 Case Management services provided help to 449 households to develop comprehensive plans to use resources for success in greater self-sufficiency including obtaining and maintaining employment, stable housing, and better financial management skills.

565 individuals received over 5,418 direct services through our licensed Behavioral Health & Clinical Services program. Clinical services were provided to people of all ages and situations to

REVENUESOURCES SOURCES REVENUE

address issues including depression, anxiety, domestic violence, sexual abuse, grief, behavioral problems and substance abuse to abusers and family members. These psychiatric, group, family and individual services included therapeutic interventions designed to meet a variety of family needs to improve the wellbeing of family members, reducing risks of crisis, abuse as well as neglect, with the goal of keeping families together.

OtherIncome Income Other 2% 2%

Grants Grants 8% 8%

ProgramService ServiceFees Fees Program 34% 34%

Contributions16% 16% Contributions

United Way Way United 9% 9%

SpecialEvents Events3% 3% Special Diocese Dioceseof ofNorwich Norwich 22% 22%

Total Behavioral Health & Clinical Services Charitable Care Provided $239,111.00 In our Parenting Education and Pregnancy Services programs, 402 families were assisted with services which included education about parenting, community referrals and ongoing counseling and support.

State Programs State Programs 6% 6%

EXPENSES EXPENSESBY BYPROGRAM PROGRAM Support SupportServices Services 15% 15% Pregnancy Pregnancy 5% 5%

State StatePrograms Programs 5% 5%

Adoption Adoption 4% 4% Behavioral BehavioralHealth Health 43% 43%

Fundraising Fundraising 2% 2%

Immigration Our Adoption Services Immigration 2% Emergency Basic Needs 2% Emergency Basic Needs program finalized 1 23% 23% adoption, completed 2 home studies, and completed 9 adoption searches, serving 203 persons through pre and post- the commitment to address and support strong citizenship and communities. adoption communication/adoption inquiries.

As a member of the Catholic Immigration Network Inc. (CLINIC), our Immigration Services program provided consultation and legal services for 71 foreign born immigrants or refugees wishing to become Permanent Residents or U.S. citizens with

Providing Help and Creating Hope since 1921

At:

55 COOGAN BOULEVARD MYSTIC, CT

CATHOLIC CHARITIES DIOCESE OF NORWICH Ticket Cost: $100 - Per Person $125 - After April 1st Black-Tie Optional

Honoring:

Community Servant of the Year • Humanitarian of the Year Employee of the Year • Honoring our Heritage Award

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Sunday, April 15, 2018 6:30pm

FEBRUARY 2018

AN EVENING of HOPE

For more information contact: Christine Jackel cjackel@norwichdiocese.net or 860-886-1928 19

Our Diocese

“STANDING TOGETHER TO BUILD THE FUTURE” Volunteer – Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

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The theme for the 2018 ACA is “Standing Together to Build the Future”.

Each month we feature someone who supports our Diocesan Ministries by following this motto through their good works

By Kathy Gaito he best way to describe the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church is… one group, many ‘great works’! While the Sisters of Charity are united as one religious order, their work can be seen and felt across the many communities that encompass the Diocese of Norwich.

It was hard to decide where to begin writing about the Sisters because all of the areas they serve are equally important.

If you (or a family member) attended school in Connecticut at St. Joseph School, Baltic; Sacred Heart School, Taftville; St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic; St. John School, Old Saybrook; St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale; St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich; or The Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic; a Sister of Charity played a role in your education. Sisters serving in the teaching apostolate either have or are working toward their Masters Degrees in aspects of education or administration. The philosophy of education that the Sisters of Charity embrace involves the recognition of youth as the future of the Church and of our nation, students who need to be formed spiritually, emotionally, intellectually, and physically in order to be effective witnesses of Christ to others.

The Academy of the Holy Family is considered the ‘flagship school’.

Founded in 1874, this institution has been serving local students as well as students from around the world since it was established. Sister M.

Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church Kateri, SCMC describes the school, “At the academy of the Holy Family, an international secondary school for girls, the Sisters have the privilege of evangelizing Buddhist, Protestant and un-churched young women as they learn about the beauty and mercy of God for the first time, as revealed through the Catholic Church. The Light of Faith reaches into the souls of many students who are seeking the Truth and whose lives are enriched by the witness of fellow students, teachers and Sisters as they live out the Gospel of Jesus.” It is a unique school that is making a profound impact on the lives of students.

In imitation of Christ, the Sisters of Charity serve the people of God in their spiritual and temporal needs.

The Sisters and the communities they serve have become a “family”. The Holy Family Food Pantry, located at Holy Family Motherhouse, provides food and fellowship to dozens of residents in Sprague, CT. The Sisters are a spiritual support for the local community. Sister Therese Maria (a novice who serves in the Food Pantry)

expressed, “Through the Holy Family Food Pantry, we share in each other’s joys and sufferings, giving hope where there seems to be none. Every person who enters the door of the Holy Family Food Pantry is greeted with love, drawing us all closer to Love Himself!”

The Sisters of Charity are reaching out to our Hispanic/Latino brothers and sisters to nourish their faith and to minister to them within the context of their cultural values and religious traditions. Hispanic Ministry while respecting and valuing the cultural differences of each group, strives to promote effective integration into the mainstream of their parishes and society.

The Sisters of Charity also operate the Holy Family Home and Shelter located in Willimantic, CT. The Shelter, a non-profit organization, is a 28 bed home and shelter for mothers and children, and fathers who meet certain criteria. Residents are provided with all basic needs of food, clothing and shelter along with holiday assistance of food and gifts.

Children receive after school tutoring for homework, as well as field trips to museums and historical places to widen the horizons of both parents and children. The Shelter offers an atmosphere where dignity is restored and opportunities for successful transition to sustainable housing are provided.

Summers are brighter for girls ages 11-15 who attend the Holy Family Summer Camp. Last year (2017), the Sisters reinstated a five day camp and honored Our Lady of the Rosary of Fatima with the theme: “In the End, My Immaculate Heart Will Triumph” – Mary’s words to all of us as we endeavor to live our Catholic Faith in today’s culture.

The Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church touch many lives across our communities through education, feeding the hungry, Hispanic Ministry, Holy Family Shelter and Summer Camp. They are also helping in unseen ways through their prayers. The Sisters of Charity are united, Standing Together to Build the Future, keeping our faith, our Church and our communities strong!

Thank you to all of the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church! Your support and the support of others allow our ministries to continue their service to our community. Thank you for “Standing Together to Build the Future” of the Diocese of Norwich.

To learn more about the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of the Church please visit their website at: www.sistersofcharity.com

Our DIOCESE

Members of Institutes of Consecrated Life and Societies of Apostolic Life renewing their vows.

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Article & Photos by Linda Norton

principal celebrant, Bishop Michael R. Cote, joined by ten concelebrating priests, prayed with consecrated persons from throughout the diocese. The Homilist was Reverend Peter Grover, O.M.V. from Saint Clement Eucharistic Shrine in Boston. The consecrated persons who were present and who have served the church well for many years, renewed their vows. There were several jubilarians present including Sister Fernande Marie Laliberte, D.H.S. celebrating 75 years of service to the Church as a sister! Also present were novices and postulants Sister Fernande Marie Laliberte, who are just beginning their D.H.S. 75 years journey in the consecrated life

he World Day for Consecrated Life was celebrated with a special Mass at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich on Sunday, February 4th. The

of the Church. Thank you to everyone for saying “Yes!” to Jesus. A reception was held in the Cathedral Hall after the Mass.

Sister Veronica Rose, SCMC – postulant

Chrism Mass

Tuesday, March 27, 2018 at 10:30am A JOYOUS CELEBRATION OF PRESITLY SERVICE AND HOLY SACRAMENTS

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

God our Father, we thank you for calling men and women to serve in your Son’s kingdom as sisters, brothers, religious priests, consecrated virgins, and hermits, as well as members of secular Institutes. Renew their knowledge and love of You, and send Your Holy Spirit to help them respond generously and courageously to Your will. We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, who lives and reigns with You and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever.

Amen.

Diocese Celebrates Consecrated Life

FEBRUARY 2018

Prayer for Consecrated Persons:

21

Reasons for sending your children to Catholic High Schools in the Diocese of Norwich, CT

Our YOUTH

Q1 Please rank the order of the reasons you have chosen a Catholic school in the Diocese of Norwich for your child(ren). The number 1 would be the highest ranking and the number 6 would be the lowest ranking Answered: 277

Skipped: 0

Deepening Deepening Children’s children's...

Faith

Sacred Heart School, Groton

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

St. James EdwardSchool, School,Danielson Stafford Springs

Sacred School, Taftville HighHeart Academic High Academic

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

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

Safe Safe Phone:Environment 860-887-1757 environment www.sacredhearttaftville.org Better Better Preparing preparing...

Children

St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale

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

Academic Excellence. Character. Self-Confidence.

Community Community service to...

Service

Co-Curricular/E Co-Curricular/ xtra-Curricu...

Extra-Curricular

0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

1

2

3

4

5

6

TOTAL

SCORE

19.15% 45

12.77% 30

20.85% 49

20.85% 49

14.04% 33

12.34% 29

235

3.65

38.03% 89

33.76% 79

16.67% 39

6.41% 15

3.85% 9

1.28% 3

234

4.92

Safe environment

12.66% 30

18.57% 44

24.47% 58

19.41% 46

17.30% 41

7.59% 18

237

3.67

Better preparing children for college or high school

30.08% 74

28.05% 69

17.89% 44

12.60% 31

8.54% 21

2.85% 7

246

4.50

Community service to others

4.31% 11

6.67% 17

10.20% 26

23.53% 60

37.25% 95

18.04% 46

255

2.63

Co-Curricular/Extra-Curricular activities offered

5.86% 16

5.13% 14

11.72% 32

12.45% 34

14.65% 40

50.18% 137

273

2.25

Deepening children's faith and morality knowledge High Academic Standards

From the Superintendent’s Office…

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

My Dear Friends,

22

I recently sent a survey out to current parents/guardians of students in all of our Catholic schools in the Diocese of Norwich. Pre-Kindergarten to Grade 8 schools were surveyed separately from the high schools. They were one-question surveys which asked parents to rank from a list of 6 choices the reasons why they send their children to our schools. The most recent national research indicates that faith is very low on the list of reasons, but the research did not include New England. Curious to see the results in the Diocese of Norwich, I am happy to report that faith is, indeed, a reason of importance for our parents.

The Pre-K to 8 population in our diocese totals 1,408 students. There were 655 responses, indicating a 47% response rate, which is very good.

The chart to the right clearly indicates that our high academic standards are the main reason, with deepening the children’s faith/morality and safe environment almost tied for second place.

When looking strictly at the number one reason they chose for placement, 34.74% chose High Academic Standards,

Reasons for sending your children to Catholic Pre-K to Grade 8 Schools in the Diocese of Norwich

Reasons for sending your children to Catholic Pre-K to Grade 8 Schools in the Diocese of Norwich, CT Q1 Please rank the order of the reasons you have chosen a Catholic school in the Diocese of Norwich for your child(ren). The number 1 would be the highest ranking and the number 6 would be the lowest ranking Answered: 656

Skipped: -1

1/1 Deepening Deepening Children’s children's...

Faith

High School, St. Bernard’s School, and Xavier High School totals 1,423 students.

There were 277 responses, indicating a 19% response rate, which is not out of the ordinary at the high school level for this type of survey.

The chart to the right indicates that the faith piece is higher than the national average, the academic/better preparation for college responses follows the national trends, but the faith piece is still significant.

HighAcademic Academic High Standards Standards Safe Safe environment Environment Better Better Preparing preparing...

Children

Community Community service to...

Service Co-Curricular/E Co-Curricular/ xtra-Curricu...

Extra-Curricular 0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

10

1

2

3

4

TOTAL

SCORE

30.47% 170

20.07% 112

19.89% 111

12.37% 69

7.89% 44

9.32% 52

558

4.25

High Academic Standards

34.74% 189

25.92% 141

22.98% 125

9.56% 52

5.15% 28

1.65% 9

544

4.71

Safe environment

26.96% 151

27.50% 154

19.82% 111

15.54% 87

7.50% 42

2.68% 15

560

4.43

Better preparing children for college or high school

10.63% 61

18.47% 106

23.52% 135

26.13% 150

17.60% 101

3.66% 21

574

3.67

Community service to others

5.72% 34

8.08% 48

10.77% 64

24.24% 144

37.88% 225

13.30% 79

594

2.80

Co-Curricular/Extra-Curricular activities offered

3.77% 24

5.02% 32

6.28% 40

7.69% 49

16.17% 103

61.07% 389

637

1.89

Deepening children's faith and morality knowledge

30.47% chose Deepening the children’s faith and morality knowledge, and Safe Environment placed third at 26.96%

5

9

6

The high school population from the Academy of the Holy Family, Mercy

What this information confirms for me, as superintendent, is that the three main reasons parents send their children to our Catholic schools in the Diocese of Norwich are academic quality, increasing the quality of their knowledge of the faith and morality which we espouse, and providing the structure and discipline for a safe environment for their children.

Accordingly, we must not just “maintain” what we are doing, we must constantly seek to improve the quality of our schools.

This is why we analyze our test scores and provide and pinpoint professional development for our teachers where it is needed the most. We must plan for continued to next page

St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic Ms. Abby Demars, Principal 35 Valley St, Willimantic, CT Phone: 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck

Mrs. Doris Messina, Principal

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

1/1

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich Mrs. Catherine Reed, Principal 211 Broadway, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-889-4174 www.st-patrickschoolnorwich.org

St. John School, Old Saybrook

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

OUR YOUTH St. Joseph School, New London

St. Joseph School, Baltic

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

Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal

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

“A Holy Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 76 Years of Excellence in Catholic Education ~ Grades K-8 ~

Full Day Kindergarten School Day from 8:30-2:30 After School Care Available Accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges

25 Squire Street New London, CT For information call 860-442-1720 sjsscty@ct.metrocast.net www.sjsnl.com

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

St. Bernard School, Uncasville

“A Holy Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 76 Years of Excellence in Catholic Education ~ Grades K-8 ~

Full Day Kindergarten School Day from 8:30-2:30 After School Care Available Accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges

25 Squire Street New London, CT For information call 860-442-1720 sjsscty@ct.metrocast.net www.sjsnl.com

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

continued from previous page

Reasons for sending your children to Catholic High Schools in the Diocese of Norwich, CT

Reasons for sending your children to Catholic High Schools in the Diocese of Norwich, CT Q1 Please rank the order of the reasons you have chosen a Catholic school in the Diocese of Norwich for your child(ren). The number 1 would be the highest ranking and the number 6 would be the lowest ranking Answered: 277

Skipped: 0

Deepening Deepening Children’s children's...

Faith HighAcademic Academic High Standards Standards Safe Safe environment Environment Better Better Preparing preparing...

Children

Community Community service to...

Service Co-Curricular/E Co-Curricular/ xtra-Curricu...

Extra-Curricular 0

1

2

3

4

5

6

7

8

9

10

1

2

3

4

5

6

19.15% 45

12.77% 30

20.85% 49

20.85% 49

14.04% 33

12.34% 29

235

3.65

38.03% 89

33.76% 79

16.67% 39

6.41% 15

3.85% 9

1.28% 3

234

4.92

Safe environment

12.66% 30

18.57% 44

24.47% 58

19.41% 46

17.30% 41

7.59% 18

237

3.67

Better preparing children for college or high school

30.08% 74

28.05% 69

17.89% 44

12.60% 31

8.54% 21

2.85% 7

246

4.50

Community service to others

4.31% 11

6.67% 17

10.20% 26

23.53% 60

37.25% 95

18.04% 46

255

2.63

Co-Curricular/Extra-Curricular activities offered

5.86% 16

5.13% 14

11.72% 32

12.45% 34

14.65% 40

50.18% 137

273

2.25

Deepening children's faith and morality knowledge High Academic Standards

TOTAL

SCORE

Reasons for sending your children to Catholic Pre-K to Grade 8 Schools in the Diocese of Norwich

Reasons for sending your children to Catholic Pre-K to Grade 8 Schools in the Diocese of Norwich, CT Q1 Please rank the order of the reasons you have chosen a Catholic school in the Diocese of Norwich for your child(ren). The number 1 would be the highest ranking and the number 6 would be the lowest ranking

Academy of the Holy Family, BalticAnswered: 656 Mother Mary David, SCMC, Principal 54 WestDeepening Main St, Baltic, CT Deepening Phone: 860-822-9272 Children’s children's...

Faith www.ahfbaltic.org HighAcademic Academic High Standards Standards Safe Safe environment Environment Better Better Preparing preparing...

Children

1/1

Skipped: -1

Marianapolis Preparatory School, Thompson

Mr. Joseph Hanrahan, Headmaster 26 Chase Road, Thompson, CT Phone: 860-923-9565

www.marinapolis.org

Church are housed. It could not be more spiritually enriching.

In order to sustain and improve our schools, it is imperative that we constantly evaluate our academics and provide our teachers with research-based, proven effective methods for excellence in teaching and differentiation of instruction.

It is quite evident that this is the number one reason most parents choose our schools. While remaining current in best practices educationally, we also must ensure that the faith we teach and put into practice is enhanced, our Catholic Identity constantly improved, and our service projects, which put the faith in action, are reflected upon.

One needs to only turn on the nightly news (or our computers) to see that world in which we now live is so desperately in need of increased faith and quality of moral education. We are planting the seeds of faith as well as academics, and nurturing the seeds with the Holy Spirit. This is a recipe for success. This is a blueprint for changing the world in a positive, spiritual direction, just the way Jesus told us to do it. That is why you should consider Catholic education for your children.

As always, on behalf of all of the 2,831 children and young men and women in our schools, I thank you for supporting Catholic education in the Diocese of Norwich. I would be remiss if I did not extend my most sincere appreciation for Bishop Cote’s strong commitment to Catholic education in the diocese. We are truly blessed!

May the blessings of Jesus Christ, Our Lord, the reason our schools exist, be upon you all this Lenten season and always,

Mercy High School, Middletown

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

www.mercyhigh.com

Henry Fiore Jr.

Henry Fiore Jr. Superintendent of Schools Diocese of Norwich

Senior Housing in Cromwell for those age 55 and over.

One and Two Bedroom Units Call for an appointment today!

860-632-1688

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

www.xavierhighschool.org

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

national expertise in all areas that the teachers and principals working “in the trenches” ask for because of a need. This is exceptional for a diocese.

We are very fortunate to have three of the four high schools co-sponsored by the Mercy and Xavierian Orders. This cosponsorship enables the high schools to tap into the plethora of resources available to them from the orders. The Academy of the Holy Family is a boarding school located on the same campus where the Sisters of Charity, Our Lady Mother of the

FEBRUARY 2018

the future by our strategic planning in academics and technology. We continue to provide professional development in the faith for our elementary and middle school teachers and administrators by offering yearly courses from Boston College and bringing in guest speakers, clergy and religious Sisters and Brothers who are known locally and nationally. At the Pre-K to 8 level, all administrators and teachers do not just gather together annually for workshops. We meet in August, November, and March providing

23

Saint Bernard School

V  K B, M

PLACEMENT TEST Saturday, March 10th • 8AM-12PM

JOIN US!

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

You have many choices of where to educate your child. That’s why we would like to invite you to one of our Information Sessions where you can learn about our academic programs, athletics, campus life and see why Saint Bernard School is a place for your child to learn, grow and discover!

24

• • • • • •

INFORMATION SESSION Thursday, March 8th 6PM - 8PM

Enjoy our full breakfast, stroll the beach and shops Visit the Monastery for daily Mass, devotions, and gift shop Choose from 65 rooms, with own AC, bath, and cable TV On the scenic trolley route Affordable rates and clergy discounts Retreat facilities

Franciscan Guest House

Ask us about our Tailored Tuition Program to help meet your family’s unique financial situation.

A little taste of Heaven on Earth

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

To RSVP call 860-848-1271 or visit www.saintbernardschool.org D753054

26 Beach Avenue, Kennebunk, Maine 207-967-4865 or toll free1-844-253-2972 email info@franciscanguesthouse.com www.franciscanguesthouse.com

Come and enjoy the Warmth of

If you’ve been thinking of simplifying your life, why not consider a move to the comfort and convenience of Creamery Brook Village. Our independent and assisted lifestyles include a long list of amenities and options. So come sit by our fire, enjoy a good conversation, and learn how you can fill your life with health, safety and the serenity of Creamery Brook.

Call today for information or a tour 860-779-8700 • www.piercecare.org • 36 Vina Lane, Brooklyn, CT 06234

Creamery Brook is part of the Continuum of Care at

OUR YOUTH

Urgent Request for Assistance

“We love our neighbor as being made in the image of God and as an object of His love.”

“A Holy Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 76 Years of Excellence in Catholic Education ~ Grades K-8 ~

- Saint Vincent de Paul

Our soup kitchens and pantries are in urgent need of food.

Thank You

St. Vincent de Paul Middletown

860-344-0097 www.svdmiddletown.org

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

Full Day Kindergarten School Day from 8:30-2:30 After School Care Available Accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges

25 Squire Street New London, CT For information call 860-442-1720 sjsscty@ct.metrocast.net www.sjsnl.com

FEBRUARY 2018

Students at Saint Joseph School in New London heard that Saint Vincent dePaul Place needed food items, so they organized a food drive and ended up collecting 377 pounds of food. Students who participated in the drive could wear their School Spirit gear rather than their uniform.

The students who were chosen at random for the picture are from left to right: Teddy Jean Noel (Gr 3), Elizabeth Hannaford (Gr 8), Tyler Bustamonte (Gr 5), Leah Jennings (Gr 1), Miloura Francois (Gr 8), Michael Watts (Gr 4)

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Saint Joseph School in New London Shows Off Their School Spirit and Their Love

25

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

Dedicating our love, compassion and service to our community.

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Specializing in:

26

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

Sponsored by the Sponsored by the Diocese Diocesof of Norwich Norwich

Prayer for Vocations Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishop of Norwich

You sent your Son, Jesus Christ, into the world to save and lead us safely home. Raise up from among your people faithful sons and daughters suited to serve as priests and religious, pastoral and spiritual needs to your people.

May the breath of your Holy Spirit inspire many in our parishes, schools, home and neighborhoods throughout the Church of Norwich to listen and respond generously to your special call.

To be present to your people in their joy and in their sorrow, give your sons priestly hearts, your daughters hearts like Mary’s, to teach your people in the faith give them disciplined minds, to be examples of lives of prayer, give them a thirst for holiness.

With your divine assistance we pray that we may seek always to form our Diocese into a vibrant community of faith.

Amen

Cosmetic ~Family~Implant DENTIST

Paul Hanna, D.M.D., P.C. First Time, Uninsured Special

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Come See Our Beautiful Selection of Christening Wear.

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WWW.DENTALPEARL.COM 461 Ocean Ave., New London, CT 06320

Complimentary Gift Wrapping Available We Ship Anywhere!

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860-442-3323

Like us on Facebook, Paul Hanna, DMD, PC We Accept Care Credit, Cash And All Major Credit Cards

Open Seven Days • Personal Attention

860.536.4895

www.thebluehorse.com

Passion Play The Church The13th 13thAnnual Annual St. Andrew Andrew Church

Passion Play Play Passion

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

will be presented

Friday & Saturday, March 23 & 24 Friday & Saturday, April 7 & 8 7:30 pm at St. Andrew Church 7:30 pm at St. Andrew Church 128 Norwich Ave, Colchester.

128 Norwich Ave, Colchester.

(Doors at 7:00 7:00pm) pm) (Doors open open at The play is a musical performance of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. With a cast of over 100. Featuring a 60-voice choir and a 40-voice childrens choir. Tickets for the performance are free; however, offerings to help defray production cost will be gratefully accepted. Tickets are available at Merciful Saviour in Colchester, the Parish Office or by phoning Theresa Dziatko at 860-295-8315.

A limited number of tickets are available.

No more than 10 tickets per person.

To Advertise in the

St. Mary – St. Joseph School 35 Valley Street – Willimantic, CT 06226 860-423-8479 • www.smsjschool.org

A Magnet School for Values An Education You Can Believe In.

Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community.

Embracing Service. Living Faith.

Supported financially and spiritually by 10 parishes in the Middletown Deanery.

Currently the only regional Pre-K to 8th grade school in the Norwich Diocese.

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

• • • • • • •

PreK—3 year olds (3 half days) PreK – 4 year olds full or half days Full day Kindergarten – Gr.8 Before and after school care Weekly Art, P.E., Music, Library, Technology Classes Student to Teacher Ratio: 18:1 Challenging academic program

Trust your child to a Catholic School where faith, knowledge and life meet.

Come visit us!

FEBRUARY 2018

Please Contact: Meredith Morrison (860) 887-3933 commeredith@norwichdiocese.net

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Four County Catholic

27

OUR FAITH

Pope Francis @Pontifex

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Prayer allows us to see one another the way God our Father sees us, and to realize that we are brothers and sisters.

28

Defending Our Religious Liberty Religious freedom is a fundamental right, not a political football. Freedom belongs to us by human nature, not by government dictate.

A government that serves its citizens is one that respects the right to religious freedom.

Let us pray that in revising the HHS mandate, religious rights of the Catholic Church will be safeguarded.

OUR FAITH

The Catholic Family: Then and Now

W

Story and Photo by Linda Norton

The Church has its work cut out for it if it is going to heal and develop good Catholic families to engage and evangelize the culture.

Where do we go from here?

In an effort to begin an ongoing diocesan-wide conversation about the Catholic Family in today’s society, Andrea Hoisl and MaryJo McLaughlin from the Office of Faith Events, presented a seminar on Wednesday, Jan 24th at Our Lady of Lourdes in Gales Ferry.

The publicity for this event focused on the question “How has our reality of family changed and how do we continue to make God a priority in our families?” During the

Christie and Philip Burns, parishioners of Our Lady of Lourdes and parents to 5 wonderful children, participated in the conversation along with other families.

presentation, the speakers considered the complexity of modern family life and the various forms of family life that the Church encounters.

A brief historical outlook was given on how the church has evolved and how over time, many traditions have been forgotten or disconnected from daily lives.

Pope Francis reminds us that what we do in our families directly impacts our society. With parents as role models, children are more apt to live the faith and develop a relationship

with Jesus. Mary-Jo said, “God made family life to be sacred; human beings learn how to interact with society through their family life.” A healthy, faith-filled family life will create a healthier society.

The presenters said that today we see more families consisting of different components such as two unmarried but committed parents with children, empty nesters whose grown children have returned home but no longer live the faith, extended families that could include grandparents raising grandchildren, home care

Also addressed was the challenge regarding monitoring the exposure of children to social media and how technology can help or hinder families. Another concern mentioned was the rise of secular Sunday activities (ex: sports) which require families to compromise their Sunday worship time. With an often overscheduled life, overworked parent(s), and a general lack of knowledge of the faith, there is a great pastoral need for conversation, healing, education, ministry, and evangelization.

The questions going forward concern how the laity and clergy together can address these needs in order to turn the tide in a culture that is eroding family life. The evening ended with some sharing of practical applications and prayer.

Readers are encouraged to join this conversation. Why not discuss this topic within your own family and parish? May the Holy Family -Jesus, Mary, and Joseph, guide us on this journey.

FEBRUARY 2018

How do today’s Catholic families live out their faith? Do parents know how to model the faith for their children? Do family members have a personal relationship with Jesus? Do they participate in the Sacraments?

Why do many people stop going to Church after Confirmation? How are Catholic families called to impact our culture?

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

families where an older parent or disabled person is living in the home, or where a parent is a caregiver for their parents. There are also single parent families, and blended families with half or step children from previous relationships or marriages and the dynamics of dealing with exspouses or custody issues.

hat does the Catholic family look like in 2018?

Two married parents? Single parent? Step children and half siblings? Adopted children?

Grandparents raising grandchildren?

Blended families? Answer: All.

29

YOU CAN UNDERSTAND

THE B IBLE !

A 8-P S

N ART TUDY FEATURING JEFF CAVINS

THE DIGNITY OF WOMEN

Empowerment of women, strong in family with a gentle approach A Lenten Presentation by National Council of Catholic Women President Maribeth Stewart Blogoslawski

Sunday March 18 @ 1 p.m.

St. Mary Church 1600 Main Street, Coventry, CT All women are invited to attend to this Lenten Presentation Light lunch provided

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Please RSVP By March l3th to Anne King at 860-456-0474

30

A Quick Journey Through the Bible

provides an excellent introduction and overview of Scripture from a Catholic perspective. This eight part series, presented by Jeff Cavins, covers salvation history from beginning to end. The complexity of the Bible is made accessible through an easy-to-follow narrative approach, and an ingenious color-coded Bible Timeline. As you begin to understand the Bible, you will develop a greater understanding for your faith, a deeper experience of the sacraments, and a closer relationship to Christ.

STILL TIME TO REGISTER & JOIN US! Presented by the Groton - Ledyard Cluster of Parishes at St Mary Mother of the Redeemer Parish Hall 69 Long Point Road, Groton.

Led by Deacons Doug Hoffman & Bill McGann, Wednesday Evenings 7-8:30pm February 21 & 28; March 7, 14, 21, 28; April 4.

Cost/Registration

$25.00 - Materials may be shared by two attendees To register, please call one of the listed parishes or email secretary@ololgf.org

For More Information

Sacred Heart, Groton...860-445-2905 St. Mary Mother of the Redeemer, Groton... 860-445-1446 Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry ...860-464-7251

“The effect on my parishioners has been wonderful: a deeper love for Christ, a deeper experience with the sacraments, and continued love for the Scriptures.”

—Father Becker, Minnesota Visit BibleStudyForCatholics.com to learn more!

Introvigne FUNERAL HOME, INC.

Serving All Faiths • Pre-Need Arrangements Traditional Services or Cremations Directors: Joseph R. Introvigne, Joseph R. Introvigne, Jr. & Michael J. Introvigne 51 East Main St. Stafford Springs, CT

860-684-2538

www.introvignefuneralhome.com

Two “Bucket List” Catholic Pilgrimages Announced OctOber 1-9 2018

JOurney thrOugh the hOly land See the stories of the scriptures come to life as you walk in the footsteps of Jesus on this faith-based journey through the Holy Land. Traveling from Tel Aviv to Nazareth, The Sea of Galilee, Jerusalem, Bethlehem, to the Dead Sea. Priced at $ 2573 pp/do land only

sePtember 16-29, 2020

Obermmergau PassiOn Play Oberammergau Passion Play Including The Best off Austria,

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• Auto • Home • Business • Life

• Group Medical • Motorcycles • Boats • Bonds

To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance to victims, please call: 1-800-624-7407

Podemos Ayudar

Para reportar cualquier contacto inapropiado por un/a representante de la Diócesis de Norwich, o para buscar ayuda para víctimas, favor de llamar: 1-800-624-7407

FEBRUARY 2018

◆ Renowned college preparatory boarding school for young men who have not yet realized their potential. ◆ Located in scenic southeastern Connecticut

Pilgrimages presented by Dream Vacation Travels personally escorted by owners Bill & Elaine Potuchek Air from city of choice, pre or post nights, gratuities and insurance quoted on request For more information and reservations contact Bill Potuchek at 860-887-6481 A non refundable deposit of $250 per person is required to hold space Due to the popularity of these tours space is limited

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Germany And Switzerland Celebrate This Once In A Decade Event traveling from Vienna to Munich including First Class Play Tickets; Danube River Cruise, Glacier Express Train; Lake Cruise; Mountain Train and Octoberfest in Munich.

Priced at $ 4599 pp/do land only

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FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

Made Possible in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal

Love Wonderful

norwichdiocese.org

Time to Fall in

with a

FEBRUARY 2018

| FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

New Car or Truck from...

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Serving Customers for Life...

Route 1, Mystic • www.Brustolon.com • 860-536-2626 Serving Southeastern Connecticut’s Community for over 69 Years