Fairfield County Catholic June Digital Edition by The Diocese of Bridgeport

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3 The new Archbishop of Baltimore

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May 2012

Vocations

First Vietnamese-American priest ordained By PAT HENNESSY and BRIAN D. WALLACE

When Bishop Lori intoned the words, “We choose Deacon Augustine, our brother, for the order of the priesthood,” the congregation broke into a prolonged standing ovation at St. Augustine Cathedral in downtown Bridgeport. Hundreds from the Vietnamese community in the area joined other St. Augustine parishioners on May 12 for the historic ordination of the first Vietnamese-American priest in the Diocese of Bridgeport. Bishop Lori, who left the diocese after the ceremony to prepare for his installation as 16th Archbishop of Baltimore, said it was fitting that his final ordination should be of a man who shared the name of Bridgeport’s Cathedral and its patron saint, Saint Augustine of Hippo. “St. Augustine had one of the most celebrated conversions in history,” said Bishop Lori in his homily, “He had one of the most powerful intellects to ever ponder the truth, and he put that in service of the Church.” Bishop Lori said that in the process of discernment leading up to ordination, a man doesn’t choose the priesthood, but he comes to hear that it is God calling him. During the ceremony, which weds the priest to the Church, the ordained says his own “I do’s” to a series of promises and pledges as he voices his love, obedience and fidelity to the Church. He noted that after Fr. Augustine spent years helping to heal people physically as a healthcare worker, “It dawned on him that people are in need of being healed spiritually and there are not enough men to do it.” The most dramatic moment of ordination comes when the priest prostrates himself before the altar as a symbol of humility and submission to Jesus as he gives his life to the Church. The traditional “Laying on of Hands” follows, when all the celebrants around the altar impose hands on the one being ordained before the bishop completes the act of Holy Orders. The words, “You are priest forever,” filled the Cathedral and rose with the incense to its ribbed ceiling. Music for the service included the Kyrie and Gloria in Latin, Vietnamese hymns sung by the parish’s Vietnamese Choir, a Celtic Alleluia sung by an Irish tenor, and Ti Seguiro, an Italian spiritual. The music was conducted by Dr. Carolina Flores, who also served as organist. The Cathedral Parish numbers more than 400 Vietnamese families and includes the Sisters of the Lovers of the Holy Cross, an order of Vietnamese nuns whom Bishop Lori invited to Bridgeport to help minister to the growing community.

A LARGE EXTENDED FAMILY was on hand to celebrate the ordination of Fr. Augustine Nguyen to the priesthood. He comes from a family of 10 children, six of whom still live in his native Vietnam. By a special gift of grace, his parents, shown to his right and Bishop Lori’s left, were permitted to travel from Vietnam to take part in his ordination and first Mass. (Photo by Amy Mortensen)

After the newly ordained Fr. Augustine Nguyen conferred his first blessing on Bishop Lori, the bishop quipped, “Good job, Father, your blessing is a good way to send me off to Baltimore. I will miss everyone. Thank you. ” Bishop Lori and the newly-ordained priest then walked out into the brilliant sunshine of a picture-perfect day as people gathered around them for blessings and to take photos.

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From refugee to priest

Fr. Nguyen, 39, comes from a family of ten children, three boys and seven girls. He was born in Saigon, South Vietnam (now Ho Che Min City, Vietnam) and grew up in Phuoc Lam, a village further to the south in Vung Tau Province. After the Communist takeover of that country, his parents arranged for Augustine and an older sister, Cindy, to escape the country. Augustine, who was 11 years old at the time, spent nine days in the open ocean in a small fishing boat before reaching the sanctuary of Malaysia. In early 1985 he and Cindy joined an older brother and sister in New Orleans, LA. They had each escaped earlier, separately. His parents were unable to leave. They, and several of his siblings, still live in Vietnam and continue to worship as faith-filled Catholics in that country.

Friends and family of Fr. Augustine Nyuyen, the first Vietnamese-American to be ordained a priest in the Diocese of Bridgeport, filled St. Augustine Cathedral in downtown Bridgeport on May 12, to witness his ordination by Archbishop William E. Lori. Hundreds of members of the Vietnamese community joined other parishioners for the liturgy and a joyful reception. It was a day of great pride and celebration.

The young refugees moved several times as they tried to find a footing in their new country. Fr. Nguyen completed elementary school in Brooklyn, NY, and graduated from high school in Baton Rouge, LA. He graduated from the University of Bridgeport in 1999, and obtained his M.B.A. degree from Southern California University. A license in ultrasound and a willingness to travel led to a job offer with Lifeline Screening of America. His career as a team manager took him all across the country. “I got to travel to every state in America, except Alaska and Hawaii,” he says. While he was attending the University of Bridgeport he became a member of St. Augustine Cathedral Parish. Active in the Vietnamese community centered on the Cathedral, he started a Eucharistic Youth Group there in 1997. “I am so thankful for their support and prayers over the years. I owe my vocation to them. At one point, we didn’t have a Vietnamese priest. While we were praying for one, I could hear God saying to me, ‘Instead of looking for a priest, you can be one.’ As one of the Church Fathers’ wrote, ‘With you, I am a Christian…But for you, I am a priest.’” While that quiet urging grew in his heart, he focused on his business career and on the responsibilities he had to help his family, both those here and those struggling in

| CONTENTS

LUCINDA AMES St. V’s Employee of the Year

PERMANENT DEACONS Six men to be Ordained

14 PAT HENNESSY

Travels to Mexico

20 CARDINAL SHEHAN CENTER

Boy & Girl of the year

24 OUR LADY OF FATIMA

Memorial Tournament

28 REV. RICHARD MURPHY

Guest Columnist: Death Penalty Repealed

➤ continued on page

May 2012

National and Local News

Meet the 16th Archbishop of Baltimore By GEORGE P. MATYSEK JR. Catholic Review

extended papal greetings and read an English translation of the apostolic mandate naming the former Bishop of Bridgeport, to his Baltimore post. “We express our confidence that through your faithful ministry of teaching, governing and sanctifying, you will win hearts to Jesus Christ and shape minds in the knowledge, understanding and love of his Church,” Archbishop Viganò said, “proposing the Christian

In a jubilant liturgy that highlighted the historic roots of the Baltimore archdiocese while also looking to the future, Archbishop William E. Lori was installed as the 16th archbishop of Baltimore May 16 at the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen. A smiling Archbishop Lori wore the same pectoral cross that belonged to Archbishop John Carroll—the first Archbishop of Baltimore—as he was led to the bishop’s chair by Edwin Cardinal O’Brien and Archbishop Carlo Maria Viganò, apostolic nuncio to the United States. There, in front of more than 2,000 FAITHFUL FROM THIS DIOCESE, like this people and grasping a group from the Catholic Center, traveled to Baltimore crosier once used by for the installation. (Photo by Pat Hennessy) Archbishop Carroll, Archbishop Lori vision of life in all its breadth and began a new era in the long history of the Baltimore archdiocese integrity to the lasting spiritual betterment not only of your flock, as he symbolically took possesbut of American society at large.” sion of his cathedral. In his homily, Archbishop Archbishop Viganò, repreLori emphasized the importance senting Pope Benedict XVI,

of defending religious liberty— highlighting the contributions of men like Archbishop Carroll and another predecessor, Cardinal James Gibbons. “We do not seek to defend religious liberty for partisan purposes,” he said, “as some have suggested. No. We do this because we are lovers of a human dignity that was fashioned and imparted not by the government, but by the creator.” Archbishop Lori challenged the congregation to be loyal Americans “by being bold and courageous Catholics.” “Let us never imagine that the faith we profess with such personal conviction is merely a private matter,” he said. “By its nature, the profession of faith is a public matter—for the faith is meant to

be spread far and wide and acted upon in and through church institutions and in the witness of individual believers.” Archbishop Lori, chair of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops Ad Hoc Committee on Religious Liberty, encouraged Catholics to resist shrinking from entering the public square where ideals such as promoting the sanctity of human life, serving those in need and defending the institution of marriage as between a man and a woman must be held high. More than 300 priests, bishops, archbishops and cardinals from around the country attended the Mass. Cardinal O’Brien was joined by the 14th Archbishop of Baltimore, William Cardinal Keeler. Other cardinals in atten-

dance were New York’s Timothy Cardinal Dolan, Washington’s Donald Cardinal Wuerl, Boston’s Sean Cardinal O’Malley, retired New York Edward Cardinal Egan, retired Washington Theodore Cardinal McCarrick and retired former head of the Vatican’s Apostolic Penitentiary, Francis Cardinal Stafford—a former auxiliary bishop of Baltimore. At the start of the liturgy, Msgr. Bruce Jarboe, rector of the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen, greeted Archbishop Lori at the front of the cathedral. Msgr. Jarboe gave the new archbishop a crucifix, which Archbishop Lori kissed. Following a procession of students from Catholic schools carrying banners representing ➤ continued on page

Msgr. Doyle named administrator of diocese BRIDGEPORT—Msgr. Jerald A. Doyle, J.C.D. has been named administrator of the Diocese of Bridgeport following the installation of Bishop Lori as Archbishop of Baltimore. Msgr. Doyle was elected to the post on Friday May 18, at a meeting of the 11-member diocesan College of Consultors that gathered under Canon Law to select an administrator who will serve until a new bishop is appointed by Pope Benedict XVI. Msgr. Doyle, 68, was appointed as episcopal vicar for administration by Bishop Lori in 2007. As such, he has worked alongside Bishop Lori to oversee all diocesan operations, institutions and programs. In his new post, Msgr. Doyle is responsible for all diocesan governance.

In April 2008, he was named Prelate of Honor with the title of Monsignor by Pope Benedict XVI in recognition of his work as judicial vicar of the Diocesan Tribunal and his service to the Church. He had previously

received the honor of Chaplain to His Holiness in 1996. Born and raised in Bridgeport, Msgr. Doyle graduated from St. Thomas Seminary in Bloomfield and completed his theological studies at Gregorian University in Rome. He was ordained in St. Peter’s Basilica in 1969. He holds a doctorate in Canon Law from St. Paul University in Ottawa, Canada. Msgr. Doyle’s first appointment was as parochial vicar at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Bridgeport. He has also served at St. Stephen Parish in Trumbull, St. Jerome Parish in Norwalk, and Our Lady of Grace Parish in Stratford, where he currently resides. Msgr. Doyle first served in the Diocesan Tribunal in 1974 and was named judicial vicar in 1992.

He has also served as a member of the Diocesan College of Consultors. The process of selecting a new administrator to continue governance of the diocese is mandated by Canon Law, which requires each diocese to have a council of priests to assist the bishop in the governance of the diocese. The College of Consultors is comprised of priest leaders who represent a cross section of parishes and ministries in the diocese. It may be several months before the diocese learns the name of Archbishop Lori’s successor. The Pope has the authority to appoint a candidate of his own choice or to confirm one of those who have been recommended by him as part of the process of identifying possible

candidates and consulting with other bishops. Bishop Egan was installed as Archbishop of New York on June 19, 2000, while Bishop Lori, who succeeded him was formally installed as Fourth Bishop of Bridgeport on March 19, 2001. The Diocese of Bridgeport was formed in 1953 out of the Archdiocese of Hartford. It numbers 410,000 Catholics, 82 parishes, 242 priests, 103 deacons, and seven religious orders of women. It also sponsors 38 elementary and high schools, a network of social services through Catholic Charities, 11 cemeteries, a network of senior housing units, and a wide range of social and pastoral institutions serving people of all ages throughout Fairfield County. n

Deacon

he Permanent Diaconate was restored to the Catholic Church in 1968, and the ﬁrst class in the Diocese of Bridgeport started studies in September 1975. Since 1978, 156 men have been ordained to the Permanent Diaconate for this diocese. Currently, 90 Deacons are active in various parish ministries, 11 are retired, 22 are deceased, 9 are inactive, and 15 are serving in other dioceses. 12 men are in formation: six in the class of 2012 (to be ordained June 9, 2012), and six in the class of 2015. Deacons, as ordained clergy of the Church, have specific functions and duties. A deacon’s ordination is the sign of his commitment to Christ, the Bishop, and the Church community. Through the Sacrament of Holy Orders, the Deacon receives the sacramental grace to fulﬁll his servant role. The formation program in the Diocese of Bridgeport is five-and-a-half years of study and prayer. During this period, men come together one weekend each month and one evening each week.

A CANDIDATE MUST:

• Be between 31 and 59 years of age • Have the support of his wife and children (if married) • Be willing to embrace celibacy (if single) • Be a person of prayer and deep faith, with practical knowledge and experience of ministry • Have a clear understanding of the call of God A new class will be formed in February 2013, and applications will be accepted through August 31, 2012. If you are interested, contact your pastor to begin the application process. If you wish further information, please contact Deacon Anthony Detje, Permanent Diaconate Director of Formation: 203.416.1451, or email: adetje@diobpt.org.

Answer the Lord’s Call to Diaconate Applications accepted until July 31, 2012 For the class of 2018 which begins February 2013 For more information contact Deacon Anthony J. Detje: 203.416.1451 or email: adetje@diobpt.org

Paul Jennings I am an ordained Permanent Deacon in the Diocese of Bridgeport assigned to the Church of the Holy Spirit in Stamford. I am also the Director of Pastoral Care at St. Vincent’s Medical Center in Bridgeport. I feel very honored and blessed that God has called me to be an ordained deacon in service to my brothers and sisters in Christ. Since being ordained, I have had the privilege of serving the parishioners of the Church of the Holy Spirit along with our pastor, Fr. Robert Hyl. In my service to my parish I look forward to assisting at Mass, proclaiming the Gospel and delivering the homily. One of the highlights of my weekends is visiting the sick at home and in the hospital and being able to bring them Holy Communion so that they can be strengthened by the Bread of Life and know that they are part of the Body of Christ in our parish. Each year I feel it is special that the parents of our parish entrust their children to me to educate them and properly prepare them for the reception of the Sacrament of Confirmation. Being able extend the sacraments in baptizing infants, witnessing of marriages and conducting wake services is a special privilege in the life of our people.

Deacon

Tim Bolton

I understand that the Permanent Deacon in several ways expresses the “seamlessness” between the Church and the world. That understanding speaks to me in my new day-to-day life as a full-time hospital chaplain at St. Vincent’s Medical Center. Daily, I encounter people in crisis, from planned procedures to unexpected hard realities of life, practicing members of the Catholic faith as well as those who are estranged, and all other denominations. I never know what I’ll encounter with the people whose lives intersect with mine during the day. What I do know is that I have an opportunity every day to be a visible face of the Catholic Church in the world, not separate from it. In the ‘trenches’ with people, hearing their stories, praying with them, standing with them even if for just a moment in time. It is an honor to stand with patients and their families in these moments; standing with them in the hard realities of life. In so many ways chaplaincy is the most demanding work that I’ve ever done, both emotionally and spiritually. I thank God for the sacred privilege of being a chaplain and a deacon.

May 2012

Vocations Priest Ordained from page 2 Vietnam. While his strong work ethic was leading him up the ladder of success, he kept finding more encouragement to consider a priestly vocation. “Particularly when I was working with the elderly in the East Coast Region, especially in the southern part of Massachusetts, when I was screening patients in the nursing homes, I saw that they were really hungry to have a priest visit them,” he recalls. “There were not sufficient priests to have weekly Mass in these homes, and worse, not enough priests to give them the last rites. That touched me as well.” Answering God’s call, Fr. Nguyen entered St. John Fisher Seminary in 2006 and completed his theological studies at St. Mary Seminary in Baltimore, MD. He has had summer assignments at Blessed Sacrament Parish in Bridgeport and at St. Rose of

Lima Parish in Newtown, and completed his deacon service at St. Joseph Parish in Danbury. In a special beacon of grace from God, his parents were given permission to travel to this country. They were in the front row of the Cathedral for his ordination. One of his cousins, Fr. Francis Nguyen, a priest of the Archdiocese of Oklahoma City, vested Fr. Nguyen for his ordination. Another set of parents were on hand as well. The late Fr. Joseph Linck was rector of St. John Fisher when Fr. Nguyen responded to God’s call to the priesthood. “I don’t think I would be here without his support, his love, his encouragement,” Fr. Nguyen says. Fr. Linck died in 2008, at the age of 43. His parents, Charles and Mary, have loaned Fr. Nguyen the vestments they’d had made for their son’s first Mass. They are now part of his extended family, supporting his journey

in faith. In July, Fr. Nguyen will travel to Vietnam with his sisters, brother, and their children. He will celebrate a Mass of Thanksgiving in the parish where he grew up. “This will be the first time we will be all together, my parents, all of my siblings and their kids. I know that almost all the people in the town will come for this celebration.” On his return, Fr. Nguyen will take up his first priestly assignment as parochial vicar at St. Joseph Parish in Shelton. “I cannot wait to go out there and bring the sacraments to the people of God,” he says. (For more information on discerning a vocation to the priesthood, go to the vocations Facebook page: facebook.com/bridgeportvocations.) n A DESIRE TO BRING THE SACRAMENTS to the people of God led Fr. Nguyen to the priesthood. (Photo by Amy Mortensen)

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May 2012

Local News

Ames named St. V’s Employee of the Year Lucinda Ames, the senior marketing and communications associate for St. Vincent’s Medical Center, has been named St. Vincent’s Employee of the Year for 2012. She is a member of St. Joseph Parish in Shelton. Ames has worked in marketing for 21 years, offering her expertise in writing, editing and media and public relations. Her claim to fame is her role as editor of Update employee newsletter, and many fellow associates know her as the “woman behind the camera.” She has been instrumental in securing news stories and features for the hospital and its employees for more than two decades, edits its consumer wellness newsletter Health Talk, oversees many of the hospital’s video and television shoots and works on a number of other marketing projects. Equally important, Ames lives and breathes the mission of the organization. She never says no; is always ready, willing and able to help a colleague, or volunteer for an event, especially if it is related to St. Vincent’s SWIM Across the Sound. Ames, a native of Bridgeport, is a graduate of Sacred Heart University, magna cum laude,

“I could not have had a more rewarding career anywhere,” Ames said in accepting the award. “My entire family, including me, was born here. St. Vincent’s is where my whole family has always come for care. All our doctors are affiliated here. We are a St. Vincent’s family.” She spoke of the “brilliant and talented doctors, nurses, therapists

and medical professionals” she has written about, and the “compassionate deeds and dedication of so many secretaries, clerks, housekeepers, transporters, food and nutrition staff and more. These stories have seeped into my soul and have become a part of me and have strengthened my bonds with St. Vincent’s. It is why I treasure my role as editor.” n

Abatemarco is NPCD president “I COULD NOT HAVE HAD A MORE REWARDING CAREER,” said Lucinda Ames, St. Vincent’s Medical Center’s Employee of the Year. Ames, left, the senior marketing and communications associate for the Medical Center, is shown here accepting her award from Susan Davis, St. Vincent’s chief executive officer.

with a bachelor of arts in English. She began her career at St. Vincent’s at age 14 as a candystriper in the old hospital. A certified teacher, she was awarded the Harding High School Outstanding Community Volunteer of the Year and the Trumbull Business to Education

Award, and was recognized as a “Woman of Substance” by the Connecticut Post for her commitment to education. Her passion for education continues today as in addition to her many roles in marketing, she coordinates the hospital tours for elementary and high school students.

BOSTON, MA—Marcella “Mickie” Abatemarco, director of faith formation for St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Riverside, has been named the new president for the National Association of Parish Catechetical Directors (NPCD). She began her oneyear term of office during the annual NPCD convocation in Boston in April. Abatemarco previously was NPCD vice president and representative for the New England Region. The new president graduated from St. Francis College with a B.A. in religious studies and did graduate work at Maryknoll School of Theology with a concentration in peace and justice. She completed a unit of clinical pastoral education at Westchester University Hospital. Abatemarco taught religion in Catholic high schools in the archdiocese of New York for 20 years and served as a department chair for 10 years. In 1998 she joined the staff at St. Catherine’s as associate director of faith formation and social justice and in 2008 became director of faith formation and social justice for the parish. She became the NPCD New England representative in 2008. “NPCD is the catechetical voice of the National Catholic Educational Association and it is through that voice that we welcome new catechetical leaders to the ministry as well as sup-

port those who have served for many years,” says Abatamarco. “It is my hope that we can meet the growing needs and technological demands of our evolving Church and ministry.”

“Mickie embodies the enthusiasm and passion for religious education that make her an effective leader,” says Carol Pinard, director of religious education programs for the Diocese of Bridgeport. “Under her leadership, Mickie will be of great service to all catechetical leaders on every level. The Diocese of Bridgeport congratulates Mickie and we are proud to have her represent all of us in the catechetical ministries nationwide.” NCEA, founded in 1904, is a professional membership organization that provides leadership, direction and service to fulfill the evangelizing, catechizing and teaching mission of the Church. NCEA’s members include elementary schools, high schools, parish religious education programs and seminaries. n

May 2012

Deacons

Six men to be ordained permanent deacons

TRUMBULL—Six men will be ordained to the Permanent Deaconate of the Diocese of Bridgeport on June 9 at 10 am in St. Theresa Church. The men will be ordained by Baltimore Auxiliary Bishop Denis J. Madden, at the request of Archbishop William E. Lori, who was installed as the 16th Archbishop of Baltimore on May 16. “The deacon, like the Church, is a sign of God’s love to man. Through his love of family, his profession and his service, the deacon gives reassurance to all that God and men are not strangers but friends,” said Archbishop Lori “It is a wonderful day for the men, their families, parishes and the entire community. It’s

truly a time to celebrate.” A deacon is an ordained minister of the Church, with a wide range of liturgical and ministerial responsibilities. All six men are fully aware and in agreement with the three tasks proper to the deacon: Word, Sacrament and Charity. They understand that they must provide 8-12 hours a week in service ministries. The deacon’s role in liturgical ceremonies includes administering Baptism; witnessing and blessing marriages; officiating at wakes, funeral and burial services; administering sacramentals and presiding at prayer services. Deacons also distribute Holy Communion, proclaim the Gospel, and preach the homily and assist at Mass.

Archbishop Lori from page 3 each of the 70 Catholic schools of the archdiocese, and then a long line of clergy, the archbishop

in Spanish. As joyous bells pealed outside the cathedral at the end of the celebration, many of those who

BISHOP LORI DAY IN BRIDGEPORT — On behalf of Mayor Bill Finch, May 16th was declared Bishop Lori Day. The proclaimation was presented to him by Joanne Hammill and her son Tim, a press aide to the mayor.

processed down the main aisle of the cathedral—eliciting applause from well-wishers.   In welcoming Archbishop Lori to Baltimore, Cardinal O’Brien said his successor would find support from his flock. “A new and grace-filled chapter begins today for America’s most historic archdiocese,” Cardinal O’Brien said, “and for that we offer thanks— eucharistic thanks—to God.”   Reflecting the growing cultural diversity of the Archdiocese of Baltimore, prayers were offered in English, Arabic, Igbo, Spanish, Tagalog, French, Korean and American Sign Language. Some of the liturgical readings were proclaimed in Spanish and Archbishop Lori delivered part of his homily

attended said they were inspired by the archbishop’s homily.  Mary Ellen Russell, executive director of the Maryland Catholic Conference, said Archbishop Lori’s homily “clearly moved the congregation,” showing how one can be “authentically American and authentically Catholic.” Margaret Brogden, coordinator of youth ministry formation, said the archbishop made a good impression. “He loves the Church,” she said. “He loves what the Church stands for, and that came out very, very plainly. That was very clear. I liked what he said, that we’re to be good Americans, and we’re supposed to be strong Catholics. That’s important for youth to know.” n

Guillermo Bernal

Deacon Tony Detje, director of the diocesan deaconate program, said the Permanent Deacon traces his origins to the Acts of the Apostles, “So then, brothers, choose seven men among you who are known to be full of the Holy Spirit…” Vatican II called for the return of the Permanent Deaconate in 1968 after a lapse of a thousand years. Guillermo Bernal, 60, of Bridgeport owns and operates Buyer’s Capital real estate agency in Bridgeport and Caribe Travel. Born in Bogota, Colombia, he attended Saint Domingo Guzman elementary and high schools, and earned a degree in education from Universidad Pedagogica in Colombia. He and his wife, Consuelo, are the parents of four grown children: Monica, 40; Javier, 39; Maria, 36; and Guillermo, 25. They are members of St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Bridgeport. He is fluent in both Spanish and English. His first Mass of Thanksgiving is set for June 10 at 12:30 pm at St. Charles. He will be vested by Fr. Edicson Orozco, pastor, who will also be the celebrant. Thomas Fekete, 58, of Stratford is shipping manager of Edelman Leather, LLC. Born in Bridgeport, he attended the former St. Emery Elementary School and Notre Dame High School, both in Fairfield. He and his wife, Diane, a nursing home administrator, are the parents of one grown child, Nicole Fekete, 28. They are members of St. Mark Parish in Stratford. His Mass of Thanksgiving will be celebrated on June 10 at 10:30 am at St. Mark’s. He will be vested by Fr. Donald Guglielmi, pastor,

Thomas Fekete

William Miranda

Rafael Regus

Eduardo Rodrigues

who will also be the celebrant. Deacon Andrew Dzujna will be the homilist. William Miranda, 56, is a Bridgeport police officer. Born in Bridgeport, he attended Waltersville Elementary School, Lino Padron Rivera Secondary School in Puerto Rico, and Warren Harding High School in Bridgeport. He and his wife, Gloria, a secretary for the Bridgeport Board of Education, are the parents of two grown children, Marsha, 34, and Elizabeth, 33. They attend St. George Parish in Bridgeport. Deacon Miranda is fluent in English and Spanish. His Mass of Thanksgiving will be held on June 17 at 10 am at St. George’s. He will be vested by Msgr. Aniceto Villamide, pastor of St. Peter Parish in Bridgeport and former episcopal vicar for Hispanics. Fr. Julio Lopresti, St. George’s pastor, will be the celebrant and homilist. Rafael Regus, 60, is a manufacturing specialist with Pitney Bowes in Danbury. Born in Bonao, Dominican Republic,

Richard Scinto

he attended Manuel Aybar Elementary School and Elias Rodrigues Secondary School in Bonao. He and his wife, Maria, a production planner at Pitney Bowes, are the parents of two grown children, Pamela, 26, and Pavel, 23. They are members of Our Lady of Guadalupe Parish in Danbury. Deacon Regus is fluent in Spanish and English. His Mass of Thanksgiving will be held on ➤ continued on page

May 2012

Religious Liberty

Catholic Bishops urge ‘Fortnight for Freedom’ Catholic News Service

WASHINGTON—American Catholics must resist unjust laws “as a duty of citizenship and an obligation of faith,” a committee of the U.S. bishops said in a new statement on religious liberty. Titled “Our First, Most Cherished Liberty,” the 12-page statement by the Ad Hoc Committee on Religious Liberty also calls for “a fortnight for freedom” from June 21, the vigil of the feasts of St. John Fisher and St. Thomas More, to July 4, U.S. Independence Day. “This special period of prayer, study, catechesis and public action would emphasize both our Christian and American heritage

of liberty,” the committee said. “Dioceses and parishes around the country could choose a date in that period for special events that would constitute a great national campaign of teaching and witness for religious liberty.” Made public April 12, the document was approved by the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ administrative committee during its March meeting for publication as a committee statement. The ad hoc committee opened its statement with several “concrete examples” of recent threats to religious liberty, saying that “this is not a theological or legal dispute without real-world consequences.” Cited first was the Department of Health and Human Services’

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mandate that most health plans must include contraception, sterilization and some abortion-inducing drugs free of charge, even if the employer is morally opposed to such services. “In an unprecedented way, the federal government will both force religious institutions to facilitate and fund a product contrary to their own moral teaching and purport to define which religious institutions are ‘religious enough’ to merit protection of their religious liberty,” the statement said. “These features of the ‘preventive services’ mandate amount to an unjust law.” Among other examples of “religious liberty under attack” the bishops named: • Immigration laws in Alabama and other states that “forbid what the government deems ‘harboring’ of undocumented immigrants—and what the Church deems Christian charity and pastoral care to those immigrants.” • An attempt by the Connecticut Legislature in 2009 to restructure Catholic parishes. • Discrimination against Christian students on college campuses. • Government actions in Boston, San Francisco, the District of Columbia and the state of Illinois that have “driven local Catholic Charities out of the business of providing adoption or foster care services” because the agencies would not place children with same-sex or unmarried heterosexual couples. • A New York City rule that bars small church congregations from renting public schools on weekends for worship services, while allowing such rentals by nonreligious groups. • Changes in federal contracts for human trafficking grants that require Catholic agencies “to refer for contraceptive and abortion services in violation of Catholic teaching.” The statement quotes the Founding Fathers and the Rev. Martin Luther King Jr. to bolster its arguments. Rev. King, writing from jail in Birmingham, AL, in 1963, described an unjust law as one “that is out of harmony with the moral law,” and said he agreed with St. Augustine that “an

unjust law is no law at all.” “An unjust law cannot be obeyed,” the bishops’ statement said. “In the face of an unjust law, an accommodation is not to be sought, especially by resorting to equivocal words and deceptive practices. “If we face today the prospect of unjust laws, then Catholics in America, in solidarity with our fellow citizens, must have the courage not to obey them,” it added. “No American desires this. No Catholic welcomes it. But if it should fall upon us, we must discharge it as a duty of citizenship and an obligation of faith.” The bishops also distinguished between conscientious objection and an unjust law. “Conscientious objection permits some relief to those who object to a just law for reasons of conscience—conscription being the most well-known example,” the committee said. “An unjust law is ‘no law at all.’ It cannot be obeyed, and therefore one does not seek relief from it, but rather its repeal.” The statement also raised the issue of religious freedom abroad and said “the age of martyrdom has not passed.” “Assassinations, bombings of

churches, torching of orphanages—these are only the most violent attacks Christians have suffered because of their faith in Jesus Christ,” the bishops said. “It is our task to strengthen religious liberty at home, ... so that we might defend it more vigorously abroad.” The statement called on “American foreign policy, as well as the vast international network of Catholic agencies” to make “the promotion of religious liberty an ongoing and urgent priority.” The bishops assigned special responsibility for advancing religious freedom to several groups: • Those who hold public office must “protect and defend those fundamental liberties guaranteed by the Bill of Rights,” regardless of their political party. • Leaders of Catholic hospitals, universities and social service agencies “who may be forced to choose between the good works we do by faith, and fidelity to that faith itself” were encouraged to “hold firm, to stand fast and to insist upon what belongs to you by right as Catholics and Americans.” • Priests must offer “a catechesis on religious liberty suited to the souls in your care,” a responsibility that is shared with “writers, producers, artists, publishers, filmmakers and bloggers employing all the means of communications.” In addition to the “fortnight for freedom” June 21 to July 4, the bishops designated the feast of Christ the King—Nov. 25 this year—as “a day specifically employed by bishops and priests to preach about religious liberty, both here and abroad.” n

May 2012

Religious Liberty

Federal lawsuits by Catholic dioceses, groups seek to stop HHS mandate By Nancy Frazier O’Brien

Catholic News Service WASHINGTON (CNS)— Forty-three Catholic dioceses, schools, hospitals, social service agencies and other institutions filed suit in federal court May 21 to stop three government agencies from implementing a mandate that would require them to cover contraceptives and sterilization in their health plans. “Through this lawsuit, plaintiffs do not seek to impose their religious beliefs on others,” said one of the suits, filed in U.S. District Court for the Northern District of Indiana by the Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, diocesan Catholic Charities, St. Anne Home and Retirement Community, Franciscan Alliance, University of St. Francis and Our Sunday Visitor. “They simply ask that the government not impose its values and policies on plaintiffs, in direct violation of their religious beliefs,” it added. Timothy Cardinal Dolan of

New York, whose archdiocese is among the plaintiffs, said the lawsuits were “a compelling display of the unity of the Church in defense of religious liberty” and “a great show of the diversity of the Church’s ministries that serve the common good and that are jeopardized by the mandate.” “We have tried negotiations with the administration and legislation with the Congress—and we’ll keep at it—but there’s still no fix,” the cardinal said. “Time is running out and our valuable ministries and fundamental rights hang in the balance, so we have to resort to the courts now.” Cardinal Dolan also is president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, which is not a party to the lawsuits. Catholic organizations have objected to the contraceptive mandate since it was announced last August 1 by Kathleen Sebelius, secretary of the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services. Unless they are subject to a narrow religious exemption or have a grandfathered health plan, employers

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will be required to pay for sterilizations and contraceptives, including some abortion-inducing drugs, as part of their health coverage beginning as soon as August 1, 2012. In all, 12 lawsuits were filed simultaneously May 21 in various U.S. district courts around the country. The defendants in each case were Sebelius; Labor Secretary Hilda Solis; and Treasury Secretary Timothy Geithner, along with their departments. Erin Shields, HHS director of communications for health care, told Catholic News Service May 21 that the department cannot comment on pending litigation. In addition to the Archdiocese of New York and Diocese of Fort Wayne-South Bend, the dioceses involved are the arch-

dioceses of Washington and St. Louis and the dioceses of Rockville Centre, NY; Erie, PA.; Pittsburgh, PA; Dallas, TX; Fort Worth, TX; Jackson, MI; Biloxi, MI; Springfield, IL; and Joliet, IL. The Michigan Catholic Conference, which provides medical benefits to more than 1,100 Catholic institutions and approximately 10,000 employees in the state, also is a plaintiff. “We need to go to the court and say we are a Church institution, we are a provider of health care and, according to the U.S. Constitution, the laws must protect our religious freedom,” said Detroit Archbishop Allen H. Vigneron. “We have a very particular case to make.” Catholic universities joining in the lawsuits included the

University of Notre Dame, The Catholic University of America and Franciscan University of Steubenville, Ohio, as well as the University of St. Francis in Indiana. Holy Cross Father John I. Jenkins, president of Notre Dame, said the decision to file the lawsuit “came after much deliberation, discussion and efforts to find a solution acceptable to the various parties.” “This filing is about the freedom of a religious organization to live its mission, and its significance goes well beyond any debate about contraceptives.” n

May 2012

Vatican II

Vatican II remains defining moment in Church By BRIAN D. WALLACE

FAIRFIELD—As the Church nears the 50th anniversary of the Second Vatican Council, many Catholics are engaged in what Church historian Massino Faggioli has defined as a “clash of narratives” about the meaning and ongoing significance of the historic enclave. Speaking to a gathering of 200 Catholics from around the U.S. at a two-day conference held at Sacred Heart University, Dr. Faggioli and other theologians explored the legacy of Vatican II to find a way forward in bringing the spirit of the council to 21st century Catholicism. The theologians and scholars agreed that the Second Vatican Council, held from 1962-65, was the most important Catholic Church enclave in 400 years. In his opening prayer and reflection, Archbishop William E. Lori discussed the “universal call to holiness” in the context of the Second Vatican Council as it has been articulated in the post-conciliar magisterium of Popes John Paul II and Benedict XVI. Sacred Heart President John Petillo, Ph.D., welcomed participants and said that the Council was “in our blood “ because the university was founded in 1963 by Bishop Walter W. Curtis, as the first lay led and staffed Catholic University in the U.S., in direct response to the Vatican Council’s emphasis on the role of the laity. The agenda for the much anticipated conference was built around the seven closing speeches of the Council delivered by Cardinals on December 8, 1965: “To Rulers,” “To Men of Thought and Science,” “To Artists,” “To Women,” “To the poor, the Sick and the Suffering,” “To Workers,” and “To Youth.” The panel of speakers at SHU picked up where the Council fathers left off by exploring the post-council response to these major issues identified by the Church in the 1960s. In his keynote address on the “Vision of the Council,” Dr. Faggioli said many liberal Catholics see Vatican II as a “golden era” that has since been betrayed by slow progress on many of the Council’s teachings, while conservatives often view

movement” rather than an institution and that “the true golden age is in the Gospels and the Scriptures,” not in the embrace of any particular political system. In a question and answer sessions following his talk, Dr. Faggioli said that “culture wars” have crept into the perception of CHURCH HISTORIAN Dr. Massimo Faggioli, Vatican II, which Assistant Professor of Theology, University of St. rises above them Thomas and offers us a “common ground in an ideologically polarized era.” the Council as an interruption of “No matter how people feel the “golden era of Catholicism” about the Council, it is impossible that came before it. to go back. The major accomHe said the Council came to plishments can’t be undone,” the sense of the “Church as a

said Dr. Faggioli, a well known Church historian.

To World Leaders

Reflecting on the Council’s statements on governments, University of Notre Dame professor Dr. Scott Appleby said that Vatican II laid the groundwork for religious freedom issues that were vigorously pursued and expanded by the papacy of John Paul II through his frequent pilgrimages “to all corners of the world.” “Who would have thought that the Catholic Church would have become the biggest defender of religious liberty around the world,” he said, adding that John Paul’s message was successful because of his ability to frame it within the context of the diversity and dignity of individual cultures rather than political systems. Likewise, Pope Paul VI, who presided over the closing of

the Council, advanced a “New Evangelization that would proclaim the liberation of millions.” Paul VI “was the first Pope to visit indigenous cultures,” which factored into his push for human and economic development. Paul also advanced the Church’s global agenda by internationalizing the Curia and the College of Cardinals. Dr. Appelby, director of the Kroc Institute for International Peace Studies, quoted “To the Rulers,” the closing Council statement of Achille Cardinal Lienart of Lille, France, to world leaders at the time: “Only God is great. God alone is the beginning and the end. God alone is the source of your authority and foundation of your laws.” He then noted that within a decade of the closing of the ➤ continued on page

Council viewed science with hope By PAT HENNESSY

“Never perhaps, thank God, has there been so clear a possibility as today of a deep understanding between real science and real faith, mutual servants of one another in the one truth,” said Paul Emile Cardinal Leger of Montreal on December 8, 1965, in offering the Second Vatican Council’s closing reflection on science and religion. The optimism of the Catholic bishops in the 1960s has since been replaced by ethical concerns about some scientific inquiry and the scientific community’s dismissal of religion. As a result, the joy and hope looked for during Vatican II are missing in our current dialogue. At the conference held at Sacred Heart University, Dr. John Haught, senior fellow of science and religion at the Woodstock Theological Center of Georgetown University, said that, although he is not mentioned by name in any of the documents, Fr. Pierre Teilhard de Chardin, SJ, who died in 1955, offered a path to reconciling faith and

science through his extensive writings and theory of spiritual evolution. Beginning with an overview on the tensions between science and religion that have developed since Vatican II, Dr. Haught said that, far from an understanding, the decades since have seen increasing alienation between the “mutual servants” of the truth. Some of this is due to the teachings of Protestant fundamentalists who hold a literal interpretation of the creation account in Genesis. That has produced a sense that thinking people must choose between “two faiths:” either evolution with no place for God or a belief in a creator God that lies completely outside science. In spite of this popular simplification, a large percentage of the Christian population of the United States, and the majority of Catholics, accept the concept of evolution. The writings of Teilhard bridge the gap between the scientific narrative of creation and religious perception of the universe, Dr. Haught said. A French philosopher and Jesuit priest who trained as a paleontologist and geologist, Telihard had traveled to China in 1923 to work with

missionaries who accumulated scientific observations in their spare time. He spent about 20 years in China and took part in

Classical theology, Dr. Haught explained, held to a spirituality of detachment, following the ancient cosmology

DR. JOHN F. HAUGHT, Senior Fellow, Science & Religions, Woodstock Theological Center of Georgetown University

the discovery of Peking Man, an early hominid fossil. Because of its difficult and innovative approach to evolution and its massive shift away from the patterns of classical theology, his most influential book, The Phenomenon of Man, was not published until shortly after his death in 1955.

that held the physical world to be corrupt and imperfect, while the changeless heavens held the image of God’s perfection. That concept was increasingly challenged as science proved that the earth was not the center of the universe; that both the moon and the ➤ continued on page

May 2012

Vatican II

A legacy for the Millennial Generation By KAREN KOVACS DYDZUHN

Fr. David Dwyer, host of a New York City-based “Busted Halo Show” on Sirius Satellite Radio, and Bustedhalo.com, an online magazine for ‘spiritual seekers,’ delivered a reflection about Vatican II’s message “To Youth.” He shared several predominant characteristics of today’s youth—which the Church defines as those between the ages of 18 and 39. Referred to collectively as the Millennials, this demographic group’s reliance on high technology—which is ever-changing— and fast-pace lifestyle must be addressed when parishes determine how to minister and include them into the fold. He pointed out that although only 23% of them attend Mass regularly, and 8% participate in parish ministries, as a whole, they are not angry at the Catholic Church. Fr. Dwyer asserts that many young people don’t know what the Catholic Church believes in. Marie Buckley traveled from

Hopkinton, MA, to attend the conference at Sacred Heart University in Fairfield and the Paulist Press. Employed as a pastoral associate for the Archdiocese of Boston, Buckley was pleased by the conference’s presentations. “I think that any time people from different age groups come together, it’s worthwhile,” she said. Buckley also enjoyed listening to the opening day’s keynote speaker, Dr. Massimo Faggioli, an assistant professor of theology at the University of St. Thomas. “He was an ideal choice for setting the tone of the conference,” Buckley said. “He really put Vatican II in historical context for us.” Elyse Raby, a 2008 graduate of Fairfield University, appreciated having the opportunity to learn more about Vatican II. “Because I am a young person, I feel I have a responsibility to understand the significance of the document.” After listening to the conference’s speakers, Raby said she has “a greater appreciation of how far we’ve come.” Raby presently

works in Fairfield University’s Center for Catholic Studies and Center for Faith and Public Life. Gregory Vigliotta said the

some way to go, especially how effectively she integrates its younger population into parish life. Vigliotta said he would like

FR. DAVE DWYER, PAULIST PRIEST, voice for youth, and host of “Busted Halo,”on the Catholic Channel

conference provided valuable insights. A 2008 graduate of Sacred Heart University, Vigliotta said, “For me, this has been a learning experience and I’ve seen how much movement the Church has made in 50 years.” However, both Raby and Vigliotta also feel the Church has

to see commissioned catechistinstructors implemented in local parishes. “We need our older adults,” he said. “I hope the Church will begin to invest in those who are passionate about teaching young adults.” Following Fr. David Dwyer’s talk, Buckley asked Vigliotta

and Raby, who were seated at her table, if they felt “well represented” by the priest’s assertions about today’s youth, though Fr. Dwyer noted he was speaking in generalities. Raby said she was among the 8% of youth who regularly participate at her Fairfield parish. However, she also noted that more could be done to integrate young people into life in the parish community. Though she and Vigliotta were warmly welcomed at SHU’s conference, as Millennials they were in the minority. Moreover, wellmeaning, older folks commented that they were happy the young people were present because they were the Church’s future. “I am here right now,” Raby said. “We are part of the whole Church right now, today.” During a question and answer session, Vigliotta brought this topic up. Fr. Dwyer suggested that people of all ages should be represented on all parish committees. “We need to get in the same room together,” ➤ continued on page

Vatican II from page 10 Council, the world would be confronted by Iranian fundamentalism and the “militarization of religion,” followed by the terrorist attacks of 9/11/2001 and other criminal atrocities being committed in the name of God. Today, when 70% of people around the globe face some restrictions on religious liberty, others in secular societies are asking for “freedom from religion” as the exodus from mainline Christian churches continues to accelerate, he said.

Role of Women

Dr. Diane L. Hayes, the first African-American Woman to receive the Pontifical Doctor of Sacred Theology degree (STD) said that while many women find progress within the Church to be glacially slow, the Church’s larger history is one of “glorifying and liberating women.” She said that Vatican II was a major step forward and the beginning of the opening of the Church to the greater participation and engagement of women. “I would not be standing before you now if not for Vatican II,” Dr. Hayes said, noting that since the

Council, women have moved into areas of leadership in parishes and now serve as chancellors in many dioceses.

and that has been good news for women and Catholics of color. “It’s a challenging time to be a Catholic woman,” she said, “but the coming of women’s voices has benefitted the Church as a whole with more women studying theology today than ever before.” She said that Pope John Paul II appointed many women to Vatican commissions and institutions and that “women DR. NANCY A. DALLAVALLE, co-chair of Religious are the best Studies, Fairfield University models of the collegiality and subsidiarity Dr. Hayes said that Vatican called for by the Council.” II’s focus on Baptism and its Dignity of Work insistence that the sacrament Dr. Nancy A. Dallavalle, makes one “a full member of the co-chair of Religious Studies at Church with a full share in God’s Fairfield University, said Vatican grace,” meant that there “could II opened new approaches to be no second-class Catholics, viewing the role of workers and

obligations of society, but that much has changed in the labor force since the conclusion of Vatican II. In 1965 it was assumed that most members of the labor force would be men, while today women represent 60% of the American workforce. She said the U.S. workforce has fragmented into highly paid workers with benefits and low paid workers without healthcare and with difficult working conditions. Likewise, the increase in immigration across the globe, much of it illegal, has left immigrants open to sexual abuse and economic exploitation without a share in the wealth they helped to create. She read from the 2011 Letter to immigrants from 33 Hispanic and Latino bishops, “In your suffering faces, we see the true face of Jesus Christ. This situation cries out to God for a worthy and humane solution.” Professor Dallavalle discussed the writing and teachings of Pope John Paul II and Pope Benedict XVI as they related to labor and to the creation of a just society.“Christians should plan to

care for the poor as part of their standard of living,” she said. In other words, “Working to help others and showing a concern for the poor depends on limiting one’s own needs.” Pope Benedict introduced the understanding that “the common good is primarily affected through institutions,” in particular, large corporations that are now more powerful than national governments. She said the principle of “subsidiarity” as outlined in Catholic social teaching and in the writings of John Paul II is a two waystreet, requiring that “issues must be worked through at the lowest level of organization, but also at the highest level necessary to be effectively implemented.” Defining the role of women in our society as “consumers and caretakers,” Dr. Dallavalle said they are often underpaid at their jobs in addition to delivering the “majority of unpaid care in our society.”

Evolution of Holiness

In the concluding comments at the conference, Dr. Michael W. Higgins, vice president of mission and Catholic identity at Sacred ➤ continued on page

Local News EDITORIAL Fabric of Faith

The high school football season ends, a young man looks forward to college—and realizes God is calling him to be a priest. Another finds success on Madison Avenue pointless, and gives it up to enter the seminary. Fr. Augustine Nguyen, who was ordained this May, saw the fragile elderly in need of a healing that only the sacraments could give. A young woman wants to dedicate herself to helping the people of God. Another sees the happy, fulfilled lives of the Sisters and feels called to join them. One young girl has gone with Sisters on visits to homes and hospitals since she was a teenager. This is what she wants, this is who she’s called to become. Each individual hears God’s call in his or her own way. One common element stands out. A family where Sunday Mass is a given, not an option. Where you wash your hands before meals—and fold them in prayer before you pick up a fork. Where mom and dad are happy to help out at the parish. In other words, where the practice of the faith is part of the fabric of family life. The fabric has gotten a little frayed. Parents forget—the Church doesn’t teach your children religion, you teach your children religion. Religious ed programs just give you a helping hand. Religious education programs have ended for the year. Family dinners haven’t, and Sundays keep happening all summer long. “Bless us, O Lord…” before the barbeque. That’s where vocations start.

Moving On Witnessing the installation of an archbishop is a remarkable event under any circumstance, but it is particularly engaging when the archbishop is a man you have known and served for years before his elevation. More than 300 people throughout the diocese journeyed to Baltimore on May 16 to participate in the Mass of Installation of Archbishop Lori in his new home, the Cathedral of Mary Our Queen. It was a day they will not likely forget: the solemn procession into the Cathedral; the beautiful international music that celebrated the joy and majesty of the moment; the 2000 faithful who raised their voices in prayer. Church leaders from Cardinal Dolan to Archbishop Wuerl of Washington, DC, offered their prayers and congratulations—and there at the center of it all, was our former bishop, William E. Lori: a prayerful priest with fierce commitment to the Church and a gentleness of nature that impressed all those who met him. More than that, he was our bishop—the man who has become part of our lives—stepping on to the national stage, and sharing his humor, warmth and leadership with a new diocese. Perhaps all leaders stand on the shoulders of others, and we help to lift them up because we believe in their goodness and mission. So we have much to be proud of, even as we mark his passage to Baltimore. In a reflective moment shortly before leaving, Bishop Lori mused that we should pray and expect that the next bishop would do great work, perhaps even better work than he himself had accomplished. We leave off with that generous thought and Archbishop Lori’s blessing as the Church begins the process of selecting the fifth Bishop of Bridgeport.

New Administrator We offer our prayers and congratulations to Msgr. Jerald Doyle, who has been elected by the diocesan College of Consultors to serve as administrator of the diocese until a new bishop is named. Msgr. Doyle is more than up to the task, having served alongside of Bishop Lori as episcopal vicar for administration since 2007. As a canon lawyer judicial vicar, and priest who has served in many parishes throughout the diocese, he brings an extensive knowledge of the local Church and understanding of the operations of the diocese to his new post. His sense of humor and no-nonsense approach to problem solving will be a great resource to other priests and the entire diocese during the transition. He will also be supported in his role by Anne McCrory, chancellor of the diocese, and Msgr. Kevin Royal, the delegate for clergy personnel. n

May 2012

EDITOR’S CHOICE Journey Into the Light Letter to the Editor: Well, they said it was going to be a “Light” breakfast. They weren’t talking about food. Over 250 men gathered for the St. James, Stratford, annual Men’s Communion Breakfast. It featured two parishioners who volunteered to share their personal “Journey Into the Light,” this year’s theme. Nathanael Wales and his wife Therese both have had severe sight loss since birth. They don’t let that challenge stop them. Therese is a recent graduate of Yale Law School and Nathanael is a civil engineer for the Army Corp of Engineers who works in, and commutes five days a week to, mid-town Manhattan. If you thought Metro North and the NYC Subway were tough, just ask him. He has a fierce sense of independence and an even keener sense of humor. He talked about perceptions about blindness and the gifts he received along the way. “One of the most important opportunities my parents gave me was, as a high school student, to introduce me to blind adults who were in college or working successfully. Knowing that these men and women were successful was reassuring. As I’ve journeyed—graduated from college, worked in my profession, earned my professional license, and advanced my career—I have been blessed to pass along such treasure and riches to blind high school students.” Jeff Noccioli’s “Journey in the Light” is an ongoing story about emotional distress. He had a beautiful and loving family, a slew of friends in the community

and parish, and a successful and continuously advancing career in food service management. The sudden death of a close high school friend, growing pressures and changes at work and an overwhelming sense of nonconfidence morphed into a negative spiral. “In one month, I lost 30 pounds and could not sleep more than three hours a night” he told the group. “The worse I felt, the harder I worked— accomplishing nothing.” He considered himself absolutely useless to his company and his family, and abandoned his faith completely. Jeff’s journey kept the 250-men-strong ballroom quiet as he related his eventual admission of depression, his wife Cara’s lov-

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CLERGYAPPOINTMENTS The Most Reverend William E. Lori, S.T.D., Bishop of Bridgeport, has made the following clergy appointment in the Diocese of Bridgeport:

Director of Hispanic Ministry REV. GUSTAVO A. FALLA, Administrator of The Cathedral Parish, Bridgeport, to Director of Hispanic Ministry. Father Falla will continue to reside at The Cathedral Parish. Effective date was May 11. Administrator REV. PETER F. LENOX, Administrator of Saint Patrick Parish, Bridgeport, to Administrator of The Cathdral Parish, Bridgeport. Father Lenox will continue to reside at Saint Patrick Parish. Effective date was May 11. Parochial Vicar REV. AUGUSTINE NGUYEN, newly ordained, to Parochial Vicar of Saint Joseph Parish, Shelton. Effective date is May 25. Rev. Msgr. Kevin Royal, Delegate for Clergy Personnel May, 2012

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Ofﬁce of Communications

ing and life-saving intervention, his treatment at a psychiatric hospital. “Father Tom came to visit me and I’ll never forget his words. ‘Jeff, I am so happy for you. You finally know just how broken and vulnerable you are— you’re just like the rest of us.” Both talks were followed by echo-after-echo of men standing, some close to tears, as they thanked Jeff and Nathanael sharing for their courageous stories and also giving them an appreciation that they were never alone on their own journeys into the light. Both guys got standing ovations. It was the only thing that Nathanael didn’t see.

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May 2012

Editorial

My Father’s Reverence for Food A Woman’s View By Antoinette Bosco

Antoinette Bosco is a member of St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish in Brookfield.

retty soon I’ll be looking for farmers’ markets, and every time I see one, I’ll be thinking of my father. In fact, every time I see fresh produce, like tomatoes, corn, zucchini and so on, something good happens to me. I suppose most people wouldn’t look at clusters of farm produce and feel warm and happy at the sight the way I do. Most of them would probably come to purchase the products of the farm because these are the freshest and reasonably priced.

But I respond somewhat emotionally to this scene because I am never there alone. The spirit of my father is right there with me as I contemplate the fruits of the earth. Actually, from the time I was 13, we had our own farmers’ market, the wonderful foods brought home in brown paper bags by my father, picked from the land he farmed in the evenings and on Sundays. He was a butcher by trade and worked long hours from Mondays through Saturdays in the meat

market. But virtually every free minute he had once the warm weather came back after winter’s freeze, he spent on his “farm.” For while he enjoyed his business and the customers he got to know in the 40 years he had his shop, it was the farm that fed his soul. When I got to be a pre-teen, I would work with him in the garden, as I did in the butcher shop, and one day my father told me a story of when he was my age and still living at home with his parents in a town in Calabria, Italy. They and the villagers were all poor and always had to struggle to grow enough food for their families. My father often recalled times when he lived on olives from the olive trees. Then, during World War I, the shortage of food became a threatening situation as sons went off to war and supplies didn’t reach the villages. Moreso, the villagers were at the mercy of the military, for

the soldiers had the authority to come into a home, take all the food there and leave. It didn’t matter if children would be left to starve. I still remember the tears on my father’s face as he told me how he and his father, once, in the dark of the night, crawled way out into a field, dragging sacks of food and a shovel. Praying that they wouldn’t be discovered, they dug a deep hole, buried the food, and covered the fresh dirt with twigs, stones and rubble to make it look untouched. When the soldiers came for food, his father gave them everything left in the house, and they went away. Thanks to the buried supplies, my father and his family survived the winter. It was then that he decided to leave his homeland and try to make it to America. It was a difficult passage for a 13-year old. It took him three years to work his way up through Italy and France

in wartime until he finally had enough money to get on a boat to America. He was then 16. From that winter during the war in Italy and his trauma of near starvation in France, my father learned what the late statesman Adlai Stevenson said many years later, “A hungry man is not a free man.” And if there was ever a value my father believed in, it was freedom, with freedom from hunger at the top of his list. And these experiences taught him something else. It was that the land has the power and the goodness to nurture us, and so, when Daddy came to America in 1918, he brought with him his farmer’s soul. He would tell me, if you are hungry because there is no food, you are a prisoner. You can’t learn to sing, or pray, or grow. He probably never read the speeches of Daniel Webster, but he lived in accordance with what the great orator once said: ➤ continued on page

What happened to the “Family Hour?” A Dad’s View By Matthew Hennessey

Matthew Hennessey and his family are parishioners of St. Aloysius in New Canaan.

hadn’t realized just what a grumpy, old-fashioned prude I’ve become. It was Clara’s birthday a few months back. One of her great rewards for turning eight was the privilege of a later bedtime. She is also now occasionally allowed to watch a little television with Mom and Dad. It’s been challenging to find something appropriate to enjoy together between 7:30 and 8:30 pm. What happened to the “family hour?” What happened to a primetime free of sex, violence, and potty humor? Look, I know kids aren’t supposed to watch too much television. It’d be better if we read a

book. But I’m tired at the end of the day, okay? And I won’t pretend that we aren’t an American family. We watch TV. Not a whole lot, but we watch it. I don’t think it’s wrong to say that broadcast standards have eroded over the last ten or fifteen years. There was a time when shows with main characters who habitually fell into bed with each other—like “Dallas” and “L.A. Law”— aired at 10 pm or later. There was an idea that kids might be watching. It was accepted that parents ought to have a fighting chance to get them to bed before the naughty stuff started. But that notion went the way

of the buggy whip. Who needs it? “Gossip Girl,” which features comely teenagers in decidedly adult situations, comes on at 8 pm. Some may call this progress. I call it cultural rot. When I was a kid, the whole family watched shows like “The Cosby Show” and “Family Ties” together. I can’t really imagine my parents enjoying “How I Met Your Mother” or “Cougar Town”. With these shows, it’s never too early in the evening for an off-color joke. The whole episode is an off-color joke. Why, I even had to surf away from the hour-long tribute to the late Mike Wallace on “60 Minutes” recently. “60 Minutes” isn’t exactly children’s programming, but I thought it would be nice to show Clara what a big world it is and give her a window into the world of journalism. And Mike Wallace was living in a care facility in New Canaan when he died, so there was a local twist. We were all set for a nice father/daughter experience, when Wallace went ahead and called himself a “horse’s [rear end].” They didn’t even bother to bleep

it. Now I’ve heard worse—but on network television at 7:30 on a Sunday night? You’d think they could give a guy a “head’s up!” Kids being kids, I won’t be at all surprised to hear Clara trying that phrase out on me next time I tell her to finish her peas. “Oh, Dad, don’t be a horse’s [rear end].” Just what I need. I can recall my parents sending me out of the room once while we were watching TV together. It was a historical program about the Holocaust. A warning came up that they were about to show some disturbing images, so my parents told me I should probably hit the kitchen for a few minutes. You think they’d warn you like that now? Fat chance. I’ve tried sports with mixed results. Clara likes hockey. (I think it’s the ice skating.) I’m always worried that a fist fight is going to break out. Then I’ll have to explain why two guys are pulverizing each other while everyone else stands around watching. I’m not even sure I can explain it. So we watch cooking shows together. These have the added

benefits of being mildly educational. Clara especially likes Lidia Bastianich. If that’s not on, we watch a travel program. It features cool people going to interesting places to eat weird foods. The host of this program never unexpectedly curses while munching on a hot pepper. I can rely on him to not make gratuitous sexual references about the culture he’s exploring. There are no commercials on this particular channel either, so we don’t have to worry about steady stream of ads for impotency treatments. What a relief. I’m no blushing flower. I wasn’t raised in Victorian England. But if I could ask one thing of the creative kingpins of Hollywood and the corporations whose advertising budgets pay their inflated salaries it would be this: Please give us a fighting chance. All we need is an hour or two in the evening so we can sit down with our kids and not have to worry about the garbage. Geez, would you listen to me? What a grumpy, old-fashioned prude. n

May 2012

Travel

Faith, history, art: Mexico has it all by the Conquistadores. In 1520 it was placed on the altar of the main temple in Mexico City, the Aztec capital, to put an end to human sacrifices there. The image was lost when the Spanish were driven from the city. Ten years later, a Christian Aztec heard a voice calling, “look for me” and found the image on a hillside under a maguey plant. A tile in the church marks the exact spot where it was found. People from all over the country come to the shrine to pray for healing and to give thanks for cures and blessings. Nuestra Señora de los Remedios is also a parish church with an active reliTHE BODY OF CHRIST with Jesus at its head has hundreds of photos and thank you notes forming his cloak. The display on the wall of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios outside Mexico City points to the deep faith of Mexican Catholics. gious education program. A semi (Photo by Pat Hennessy) nary on the grounds of the shrine currently has 42 seminarians preparing for the priesthood. Blessed los Remedios embodies the soul of every nation, the Masses in Pope John Paul II visited the Nuestra Señora de los Remedios English, Polish, French, Spanish, of Mexico. That alone, plus its shrine and elevated the church to has been venerated for longer close proximity to Mexico City, Vietnamese and others beyond the status of basilica. than Our Lady of Guadalupe. should put it on the “must see” counting, captures the essence of This combination of ancient The small image of the Virgin list for pilgrims. the universal Church. and modern confronts visitors at Mary now displayed in the ➤ continued on page 21 It’s surprising to learn that In contrast, Nuestra Señora de church was brought to Mexico

By PAT HENNESSY

The words “We are the Body of Christ” carry new meaning for me. A courtyard wall in the Shrine of Nuestra Señora de los Remedios outside Mexico City displays a familiar representation of the head of Jesus. His “cloak,” his body, is made up of hundreds of photos and thank you notes. “Thank you for the safe birth of my granddaughter,” “Thank you for saving our marriage,” “Thank you for the cure of my cancer.” I was fortunate to visit the pilgrimage site as one of a group of Catholic journalists on a tour hosted by the Mexican Tourist Office, Destination Management Services of Mexico and Regina Tours in Manhattan. Tens of thousands of U.S. Catholics travel each year to the Shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico. It is among the most visited pilgrimage sites worldwide. The multitude of languages heard in its central plaza, the flags

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Tracy and Cuong Nguyen, St. Augustine Parish, Bridgeport “Our seminarians are discerning God’s call at St. John Fisher Seminary Residence in Stamford and this is the future of our Diocese. Our gift is an important investment in their lives as well as the life of every parishioner.”

Margarita and Roberto Ucero, St. John the Evangelist Parish, Stamford “Our family has a special interest in supporting and providing for our retired priests who have given their lives in service to Christ. We direct our gift to the Queen of the Clergy Residence as our priests continue to work in their retirement.”

Lou Roller St. Edward the Confessor Parish, New Fairfield “I specifically give to the Annual Bishop’s Appeal because it provides for nutrition and counseling services, supports clergy development and retired priests, educates over 10,000 students in our Catholic schools and assists with faith formation programs.”

generous Lovely and Francisco Soares Blessed Sacrament Parish, Bridgeport “We know and trust in the many programs and wonderful services the Appeal provides within our Diocese. Our gift, combined with other donors, assists many.”

Msgr. Stanley B. Rousseau, retired priest, Catherine Dennis Keefe Queen of the Clergy Residence “For myself and other retired priests in our Diocese, the Appeal supports the Catherine Dennis Keefe Queen of the Clergy Residence in Stamford where we have a place to fulfill our priesthood and retire with dignity, spirit and love of our Lord.”

Connie and Vinnie Von Zwehl St. Pius X Parish, Fairfield “We made a decision to put the major emphasis of our contributions to the Catholic Church. The Bishop’s Appeal programs are a way for us to take care of our local charitable obligations in the area where we live.”

Appeal Fundraising Expenses Catholic Charities

7% 12% 10%

Vocations

Allocation of $12 Million Goal

Clergy and Religious Ministries

23%

22% 9%

Parish Life and Ministries

17%

Inner-City Catholic Elementary Schools

Catholic Education

Ministries Funded through the 2012 Annual Bishop’s Appeal CATHOLIC CHARITIES Adoption Behavioral Health Services Case Management Community Outreach Early Childhood Consulting Empowering People for Success Family Directions Family Loan Program Hispanic Outreach Homeless Outreach Team Housing Immigration Services Intensive Family Preservation & Reunification Medications Management Morning Glory New Heights New Covenant House of Hospitality/ Food Pantry Parent Education Program Pregnancy Counseling Room to Grow Early Childhood Center St. Stephen’s Food Pantry School Social Work Senior Citizen Outreach Senior Neighborhood Support Service Senior Nutrition Program Support Groups Supportive Housing Thomas Merton Center Thomas Merton Family Support Center Thomas Merton Homes Yerwood Youth Food Program Support Center

CATHOLIC EDUCATION 32 Elementary Schools Five High Schools One Special Needs School Cardinal Shehan Center McGivney Center PARISH LIFE AND MINISTRIES Adult Confirmation Adult Formation/ RCIA Convivio Fairfield County Catholic High School Apostles Jubilee Mass Lenten Confession Campaign Marriage Preparation Newman Center at WestConn People with Special Needs Parish Finance Office Religious Education Respect Life Ministry S.H.A.R.E (Sacred Heart Adult Religious Education) Special Needs Camp St. Augustine Lecture Series St. Cyril of Jerusalem Catechetical Program Youth Ministry CLERGY AND RELIGIOUS Hospital Chaplains Nursing Home Ministry Prison Outreach Retired Priests VOCATIONS Major Seminary Permanent Diaconate Program St. John Fisher Seminary Residence

MEALS

New Covenant House Soup Kitchen and Food Pantry Stamford, CT

700,000 –

653,000

600,000 – 500,000 –

495,000

400,000 –

440,000

300,000 – 200,000 –

262,000

100,000 – 0–

2008

2009

2010

M e a l s

S e r v e d

2011

“It’s really good that there are people in this world that do care and want to help. What I plan to do is to hopefully one day give back and help.” – David

Give Hope Today The 2012 Appeal has raised $8.8 million

to date and we need to reach $12 million to fund the critical ministries across Fairfield County. Please renew your support. Any amount is appreciated and makes a difference.

Give Today Online! www.2012ABA.com

May 2012

Vatican II Vatican II from page 11 Heart University, said that one major achievement of the Council was its affirmation of the spiritual development ordinary people. Dr. Higgins, an author of a dozen books including works

directly participating in it. Henri Nouwen’s “spirituality of the wounded” infused the Council with a greater awareness of the poor, sick and suffering. Trappist monk Thomas Merton inspired the

DR. SCOTT APPLEBY, International Peace Studies, University of Notre Dame

on Thomas Merton and Henri Nouwen, identified Catholic writers and thinkers who had a large impact on the Council without

Council through his writings on the Great Christian thinkers from the early Church and his rediscovery of the “Desert Fathers” of monasti-

cism. Merton helped redefine “the charism of the contemplative as a gift of the Church to all of its people.” He said that Dorothy Day, “an orthodox and obedient Catholic,” helped put the Council in touch with “the spirituality of poverty and protest,” while the writings of Jesuit Teilhard de Chardin on science and faith led us to understand that “holiness has a future.” Professor Higgins said DR. DIANA L. HAYES, Systematic the Council is alive and Theologian, Georgetown University well because Catholics continue to explore and debate its meaning. “How book titled, Vatican II, a Universal long will it take to absorb the Call to Holiness, edited by Fr. wisdom of the Council?” he Anthony Ciorra and Michael W. asked. “Prophets don’t speak in prose,” he added, in reference to Higgins. The book is scheduled to be published by Paulist Press and the inspired time of the Second released on October 12, 2012, to Vatican Council. Presentations from the confer- coincide with the 50th anniverence will be brought together in a sary of the Council. n

Legacy from page

Dwyer said. “We don’t want to be afraid of mixing the soup.” Fr. Dwyer suggested that parishioners invite young people to join them by name, as Jesus did. “Engage young adults when you see them at church by saying, ‘We’re glad you’re here.’” Jessie Beard, of Oxford, felt informed and inspired by the presentations. “I hadn’t heard about Vatican II in many years,” she said. “I enjoyed the talks very much. It made me see a different aspect of the Council.” Michele Curnan, director of religious education at Holy Trinity Parish in Sherman, was also pleased she attended the conference. As Vatican II revitalized the Church, the SHU conference made her feel “more nourished to go on.” “It’s nice to come to something like this and be with people of like minds,” Curnan said. n

Science from page 10 sun—images of perfection—had dark spots and saw change; and that even the supposedly perfect orbits of the planets had wobbles. These findings were as troublesome in their day as the evolution debate is in ours. As the British poet John Donne (1572-1631) lamented: “Tis all in pieces/All coherence gone.” Dr. Haught traced the efforts of scientists, philosophers, and theologians to reconcile authentic religious longing with this new cosmology. The genius of Teihard was to push aside the traditional spirituality, with its emphasis on immutable perfection. He focused instead on a dynamic God, creating the world from “up ahead” instead of from “up above.” From this viewpoint, science shows a gradual increase in organized complexity, with a corresponding increase in consciousness. From the “Big Bang” to the creation of solid matter, planets, life, single-celled to more complex organisms, mammals, primates, and finally to humans who can reflect on their Creator— through all of these God is drawing the world forward in a still unfolding story. “Teihard believed that evolution must have an everlasting

goal,” Dr. Haught said. “The universe is still unfinished. Something new and more is always taking shape up ahead. Expectation is the key concept in Teihard.” Teihard called this “up ahead” the noosphere (from the Greek word “nous,” meaning mind), centered on faith and hope. In this view, religious faith is absolutely necessary to the further evolution of the universe. The Phenomenon of Man generated intense debate in the years after its publication—the same years leading up to the Second Vatican Council. What had been too controversial to publish a few decades earlier became the underpinning of hope as the Church looked at the modern world. Gaudium et Spes, Latin for “Joy and Hope” is the common title for the “Pastoral Constitution on the Church in the Modern World,” an overview of the Church’s teachings about humanity’s relationship to society, including science and technology. As Gaudium et Spes proclaims: “The Council focuses its attention on the world of men, the whole human family along with the sum of those realities in the midst of which it lives… that world which the Christian sees as created and sustained by its Maker’s love.” n

ADMINISTRATIVE DIRECTOR AND CAMPUS MINISTER FOR EDUCATION AND SPIRITUAL LIFE Sacred Heart University, in Fairfield, Connecticut, is the second-largest Catholic university in New England. The Princeton Review includes SHU in its guides “Best 373 Colleges: 2011,” “Best in the Northeast” and “Best 300 Business Schools: 2011.” U.S. News & World Report ranks SHU among the best master’s universities in the North in its annual “America’s Best Colleges” publication. Over 6,000 students are enrolled in its four colleges: Arts & Sciences; Education & Health Professions; the AACSB-accredited John F. Welch College of Business; and University College. Sacred Heart University is seeking an Administrative Director and Campus Minister for Education and Spiritual Life. This individual will be responsible for coordinating and overseeing the educational and spiritual programs of Campus Ministry in the context of full involvement with the department’s mission and pastoral outreach. They will exercise responsibility for all administrative and planning matters in relation to Campus Ministry and Chaplaincy. Duties will include overseeing a coherent educational and spiritual program based on evangelization and experiential catechesis which, following the catechumenal model will enhance the Catholic identity of the University and which will encourage a full and active spiritual life among young adults attending Campus Ministry events; Plan and coordinate retreats, prayer services and other university events as needed; Collaborate on identifying and implementing programs and activities for the theological and spiritual education and enrichment of the faculty and staff of Sacred Heart University; Provide pastoral presence for students, faculty and staff of the University; Coordinate and oversee the activities of the Campus Ministry department and staff, including planning, office management and professional development of the Campus Ministry team; Work with the Director of Chaplaincy and other campus ministers in recruiting and training of student leaders, including the Student COR Team. The ideal candidate will have a Master’s of Divinity Degree, or Master’s Degree in theology or pastoral ministry, or equivalent. They will have a thorough knowledge of Catholic theology, culture and pastoral practice. They will have previous experience working with college students and/or young adults in a ministry setting. They will be able to communicate effectively and have excellent organizational skills. Also, they will have knowledge and support for the Mission of the University and Catholic higher education. Please visit our website to apply online: www.sacredheart.edu/jobs.cfm. We offer a comprehensive and competitive benefits and compensation package. Ecumenical in spirit and led by the laity, Sacred Heart University is dedicated to excellence in academics and to the Catholic intellectual and liberal arts traditions. We are looking for individuals who value the University’s Catholic identity, tradition and spirit, and support its commitment to the intellectual and ethical development of our students. Sacred Heart University is an EOE/AA employer.

May 2012

Youth

Shehan Center awards Boy and Girl of the Year

BRIDGEPORT—The Cardinal Shehan Center awarded the honor of the 2012 Boy and Girl of the Year to Edens Fleurizard of High Horizons Magnet School in Bridgeport and Elizabeth Khalil of St. Lawrence School in Shelton at its 47th Annual Sports Award Banquet on April 12 at the Bridgeport Holiday Inn. This prestigious title is bestowed upon two individuals, one boy and one girl, who encompass all of the qualities that the Cardinal Shehan Center look for in the area’s youth.

Fleurizard and Khalil both stood out in the selection process for their commitment to academics, athletics and serving their community. The Center believes the two individuals chosen for this award are reflective of the Center’s mission and values. The evening included

Edens Fleurizard 2012 Boy of the Year

Elizabeth Khalil 2012 Girl of the Year

Cemetery Offices BRIDGEPORT-STRATFORD St. Michael Cemetery 2205 Stratford Avenue Stratford, CT 06615 (203) 378-0404 DANBURY St. Peter Cemetery 71 Lake Ave. Ext. Danbury, CT 06810 (203) 743-9626 DARIEN St. John Cemetery 25 Camp Ave. Darien, CT 06820 (203) 322-0455

To our families, Monuments and Markers

are available for purchase through any of our Catholic Cemetery Offices,

listed at right. Please call for an appointment or visit us at your convenience.

Catholic Cemeteries Diocese of Bridgeport Administrative Office, Catholic Center 238 Jewett Avenue, Bridgeport, CT 06606

comments from guest speaker Sydney Johnson, head coach of Fairfield University’s Men’s Basketball Team, individual achievement honors and an award ceremony for the Shehan Center League, as well as the Diocesan League. n

St. Peter student “Lavinia Warren” BRIDGEPORT—Receiving her Barnum Festival crown, Samantha Henry, a third-grade student at St. Peter School, was chosen to be this year’s Lavinia Warren for the Barnum Festival. Samantha was selected from third- and fourth-graders representing 26 schools in the Bridgeport area at a judging event at the Bridgeport Holiday Inn. The contestants were interviewed by a panel of judges who chose the winners of the Tom Thumb and Lavinia Warren Contest based on their academic records, leadership, enthusiasm and social skills.

GREENWICH St. Mary - Putnam Cemetery 35 Parsonage Rd. Greenwich, CT 06830 (203) 869-4828 (203) 869-7026 NEWTOWN Resurrection Cemetery c/o Gate of Heaven Cemetery 1056 Daniels Farm Road Trumbull, CT 06611 (203) 268-5574 NORWALK St. John Cemetery – St. Mary 223 Richards Ave. Norwalk, CT 06850 (203) 838-4271 STAMFORD Queen of Peace Cemetery c/o St. John Cemetery 25 Camp Avenue Darien, CT 06820 (203) 322-0455 TRUMBULL Gate of Heaven Cemetery 1056 Daniels Farm Road Trumbull, CT 06611 (203) 268-5574 WESTPORT Assumption, Greens Farms Assumption, Kings Highway c/o St. John Cemetery 223 Richards Avenue Norwalk, CT 06850 (203) 838-4271

As a member of the Barnum Festival family, Samantha will enjoy leading the Wing Ding youth parade with “Tom Thumb,” and she will participate in the Ringmaster’s Show, the Great Street Parade, the Parade of Champions and many other Barnum Festival events. “It will be a great experience for Samantha,” says St. Peter’s Principal Sue Zello. “She is an A student who consistently achieves academic excellence. She is wonderful young girl, outgoing and deserving of this honor.” n

May 2012

Travel Mexico from page 14 every turn. Mexico is home to fully 25 UNESCO heritage sites, beginning with the city center itself. The central plaza, the Zócolo, has a Renaissance feel reminiscent of St. Mark’s Square in Venice. That’s not surprising—the Renaissance was in full swing when it was built. The Metropolitan Cathedral, front-

Plymouth Rock—before the Mayflower was so much as a gleam in some shipbuilder’s eye. Built on the site of the largest Aztec temple, its official name, the Metropolitan Cathedral of the Assumption of Mary of Mexico City, recalls Cortes’ action of putting the statue of Nuestra Señora

Beyond the marvel of their artistry, the stunning churches of Mexico continue to foster a vibrant faith. Here, parishioners at San Francisco Acatepec in Cholula polish the chandelier that hangs above the main altar. (Photo by Pat Hennessy)

ing on the square, was dedicated in 1573, more than a generation before the Pilgrims landed on

de los Remedios on the bloodsoaked altar of the Aztec temple. In addition, the city is home

to magnificent churches, from the baroque of the Franciscans to the neoclassical restraint of the Jesuits. Art galleries, museums, elegant shops and airy rooftop restaurants add to the city’s delights. Beyond the city, the massive Toltec ruins of Teotihuacan boast of a cultural history that reaches back before the birth of Christ. Named by the Aztecs as “The Place Where the Gods Were Born,” it was the center of a flourishing culture when Europe was mired in the Dark Ages. Pilgrims who begin with Mexico City are inevitably called to explore further, particularly the delights of Cholula and Puebla. Cholula, an Aztec astronomical center, had a temple for every day in the year. The Spanish, following the custom seen in Mexico City, built a church atop every temple. Over a hundred churches and small chapels still exist. One of the most amazing, San Francisco Acatepec, covered entirely in tiles, is decorated in a style called indigenous Baroque. Basically, it’s Baroque on steroids: fear that one square inch would go unadorned. It, too, is a parish church. The day we were there, parishioners were bent over one of the chandeliers that hung above the main altar, polishing it and cleaning the crystals to restore them to maximum brilliance. Nearby Puebla is home to possibly the most beautiful chapel in all the Americas. The Rosary Chapel is located in the Church of Santo Domingo. The church itself

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FOLLOWING A CENTURIES OLD TRADITION, Pat Hennessy tries her hand at crafting talavera pottery at Talavera Armando in Puebla. Traditional artisans, weavers, dancers, musicians and artists delight visitors to Mexico.

is beautifully decorated in Baroque style, but the chapel dedicated to Our Lady of the Rosary will simply take your breath away. The walls and dome are completely coated with ornate sculpture in gold leaf and plaster, including saints, cherubs, and dancing angels. On the walls, golden vines form the frames of six paintings depicting the Mysteries of the Rosary. “Golden” in this chapel, and in the churches of this era spread across Mexico, simply means gold—no substitutes. Sooner or later, in a discussion of travel in Mexico, the question comes up: “But is it safe?” Certainly, like New York or Boston, every city has places that delight and places to avoid. But

mostly I remember the graceful couples in the main square of Oaxaca, dancing one evening to a live band in front of the cathedral. We enjoyed a late night coffee in Puebla’s charming plaza and window shopped along the Avenida de la Reforma, Mexico City’s answer to Fifth Avenue. Maybe the best response to those fears can be found in Mexico’s dazzling cathedrals and pilgrimage sites. The gilded frescos and precious artwork are most often protected by a simple sign: “No Tocar”—“Don’t Touch.” The warning is universally obeyed. (For more information on pilgrimage tours to Mexico, contact Regina Tours: toll-free at 1.800.CATHOLIC or www.1800CATHOLIC.com.) n

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May 2012

Deacons Deacons from page 7 June 9 at 7 pm at Our Lady of Guadalulpe. He will be vested by Fr. José Jesus Montoya. Fr. Hector Leon, pastor, will be the celebrant. Eduardo Rodrigues, 64, is maintenance supervisor for Eastchester New York School District and the proprietor of his own landscaping business. He was born in Santos, SaoPaulo, Brazil, and raised in Antas-Peredano, Portugal. He attended the elementary school of Antas and Antas High School. He and his wife, Maria, a custodial worker, have one daughter, Catarina Lore. They are members of St. Catherine of Siena Parish in Riverside. Deacon Rodrigues is fluent in Portuguese, and also English, Spanish, and Brazilian Portuguese. His first Mass of Thanksgiving will be held on June 10 at 10:30 am at St. Catherine of Siena. He will be vested by Deacon Renato Berzolla. Msgr. Alan Fr. Detscher, pastor, will1:46 be the Sabbath 3.9 4/25/12 PMcelPage 1

ebrant and homilist. Richard Scinto, 46, is a tool & die maker and also refurbishes and restores classic cars. He is a member of the U.S. Marine Reserves. Born in Milford, he attended Elizabeth Shelton Elementary School in Shelton; Shelton Intermediate School; Shelton High School; Sacred Heart University in Fairfield and Bridgeport Engineering Institute in Fairfield, where he earned a certificate in tool & die making. He and his wife, Terri Lynn, a homemaker, are the parents of two young children, Carolanne and Charlotte. They are members of St. Rose of Lima Parish in Newtown. His Mass of Thanksgiving will be held on June 10 at 12 noon at St. Rose of Lima. He will be vested by Fr. Joseph Karcinski, parochial vicar of St. Jude Parish in Monroe. Msgr. Robert Weiss, pastor, will be the celebrant. Current Church law requires a man to be 35 years of age at the

The

SABBATH of HISTORY William Congdon

Meditations on Holy Week

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time of his ordination as deacon. Candidates in the diocese must be between the ages of 31 and 60 years of age at the time they enter the

program. The Formation Program in the Diocese of Bridgeport takes five and a half years. (For more information on the

Permanent Diaconate Program of the Diocese of Bridgeport, contact Deacon Anthony Detje: 203.416.1451; email: adetje@diobpt.org.) n

Celebrating 50 years Fr. John O’Neill, M.S., will celebrate his 50th anniversary as a priest at the 11 am Mass at St. James Church in Danielson on May 27. Bridgeport can be proud of the entire O’Neill family. Fr. John was born on August 7, 1935, the son of the late Eugene and Anne O’Neill. His three sisters, Mary, Ann and Peggy are all Sisters of Mercy. His brother, Gene, is the retired police commissioner of Bridgeport. Fr. O’Neill was ordained a priest at the La Salette Shrine in Ipswich, MA, on May 26, 1962. He received his master of education degree from Boston College and is

a National Science Foundation Scholarship recipient from the University of Missouri.

His years of priesthood called on him to fulfill many roles. He was the president of the Northeastern Collegiate Athletic conference in upstate New York, 1963-66, was the first national director of vocations for the Catholic Church of the United States of America from 1969-72, and he served as a provincial of the Missionaries of LaSalette for nine years, from 197988. He became pastor of St. James Parish in Danielson in 1991. (For more information on the anniversary celebration for Fr. O’Neill, contact St. James Parish: 860.774.3900 or stjames_parish@ yahoo.com.) n

May 2012

Community

A Call to Justice By PAT HENNESSY

“It’s against international law to detain people who seek asylum in a facility with hardened criminals—but in the United States, we do that,” said Sr. Josephe Marie Flynn, SSND, speaking in two guest appearances in Fairfield County in April. They were the first presentations in Connecticut for Sr. Josephe, a member of the School Sisters of Notre Dame and the author of Rescuing Regina. Regina Bakala, an asylee from the Congo and the subject of the book, also spoke at the meetings. Rescuing Regina chronicles the successful effort to save a Congolese torture survivor from deportation. The book’s tragedy does not lie in the certainty of death that Regina Bakala faced in her native Congo. Most Americans can put emotional distance between the safety of life in the United States and the terror that stalks violence-prone areas of the world. Its heartbreak lies in the brutality Regina faced when, ten years after she escaped to the supposed safety of the U.S., she was seized in her Milwaukee home, in front of her husband and young children and hauled off to jail and nearly certain deportation. This, even though she had suffered attacks for her pro-democracy work in Congo and faced certain and immediate death if she were deported to that country. Like most Americans, Sr. Josephe, parish minister in the all-white, middle-class parish of Sacred Heart in Milwaukee, WI, knew nothing of arbitrary bureaucracy of the Immigration Service. A frantic call in the night from David Bakala, Regina’s husband, introduced her to a frightening world—one invisible to most U.S. citizens. When Regina came to the country, she spoke no English

but knew a little French. She filed an official account of her attacks in the Congo. Prepared with the help of a college student “translator,” it mentioned only one rape and beating. Worse had followed. The translator tried her best; Regina signed what nearly turned out to be her death warrant. Because the written account did not entirely match a verbal testimony she gave when she had learned English, a judge declared her account “not credible.” Her husband, David, faced a similar fate. Although his torture and imprisonment in Congo was well documented, he had not filed the appropriate papers within a year of his arrival. They were like many victims of violence, torture and imprisonment, with neither fluency in English, strong legal representation, nor knowledge of an arcane and labyrinthine system of regulations. “There’s not an American I know who finds the system acceptable—once they learn how it works,” said Sr. Josephe. In “Answering the Call to Justice,” held at two locations in this diocese, Sr. Josephe—now fiercely aware of the injustice of the U.S. immigration system— shared her painfully-won knowledge of America’s fractured and frightening asylum process, one that frequently endangers those who seek refuge in this country. She describes a system in which refugees and asylees— people who have been granted asylum because of a well-founded threat to their life—can be taken away in handcuffs and put into prison for weeks, months, or even years. “The elderly, sick, and even children can be locked up in the same prison as violent offenders,” Sr. Josephe said. They have none of the safeguards offered by the laws of the United States. “I want people to understand the impossibilities of the system

and how cruel it is,” said Sr. Josephe. “The system is radically broken.” “I’m not the only woman who suffered. There are too many immigrant women in jail,” Regina told listeners. “Americans need to know about this.” Knowledge was the most valuable fruit of “Answering the call to Justice,” participants agreed. “It’s stunning to me that this could happen here,” said Liz Cahill, a member of St. Aloysius Parish in Greenwich. “I have a lot to learn.” Maggie Devine, a parishioner at St. Luke’s in Westport, added her own conclusion. “No politician is going to do anything unless we become aware,” she said. “The Gospel calls us to be aware that every person we see is human, with rights like ours. The minute we do that, it all begins to change.” n

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May 2012

Sports

A name worth preserving By DON HARRISON

More than 450 students—boys and girls— participated in the fifth annual Tyler Ugolyn Memorial Basketball Tournament this winter at Our Lady of Fatima School in Wilton. Few of the youngsters were aware of the remarkable

young man for whom the tournament was renamed. Tyler Ugolyn was an outstanding basketball player at OLF and then at Ridgefield High School, talented enough to be a McDonald’s High School Basketball All-American nominee and to play at Columbia University. A member of the National Honor Society and a man of deep faith, he became a founder of the Columbia Catholic Athletes and

a Eucharistic Minister. When his knees gave out and he could no longer play the game he loved, Tyler formed a basketball program for Harlem youth at Columbia’s Levien Gymnasium; he would meet them at 9 am each Sunday morning. “For someone who played hard besides working hard,” his father, Victor Ugolyn has said, “it meant very little sleep the night before.” In 2001, Tyler earned a bachelor’s degree at Columbia and, on July 1, he began working as a research associate at Fred Alger

GIRLS ALL-STARS INCLUDED Our Lady of Fatima players Mary Lynch, Mariah Ventrella, Lexi Oskam, Caraline Higgins and Mary Conlon; Olivia Troy, Olivia Prescott, Monica Haffey, Shannon Buttling, Kirsten Bloom and Candice Wright, All Saints of Norwalk; Kate Muldon and Grace Donelan, St. Thomas’s seventh grade; and Colleen Rauser and Danielle Kosterbay, St. Jude.

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FOR THE BOYS, Our Lady of Fatima was represented by seventh-graders Matt Rubsam, Matty Fair and Thomas Prackup, and eighth-graders Ryan Murphy, Zach Duffy and Keiran O’Reilly. Other All-Stars were Brendan Beiser and Brendan Carey, St. Thomas; Aidan Kudzy and Paul Cippollaro, St. Thomas seventh grade; Jaudens Florian and Tim Welch, St. Theresa; Stephen Blade and Spencer Gilbert, St. Joseph in Shelton; Trinity Middle School’s Cameron Kelly and Tyler Austin; and St. Catherine eighth-graders Billy Quigley and Paul DeFelice

Management, Inc., on Wall Street. He planned to follow his dream by earning an MBA, become a portfolio manager and establish his own investment management firm. On the morning of September 11, Ugolyn was among the 35 members of the firm’s management staff of 55—and more than 2,800 innocent men and women overall—who perished in the terrorists’ attacks on the World Trade Center. He was just 23. “Tyler Ugolyn was an extraordinary young man who is revered by all those who had the privilege of knowing him and all those who wished they could have,” said Peter Rubsam, the tournament chairman. “Tyler is often remembered by a quote told to him by his grandmother and the way he lived his life: ‘Yesterday is history, tomorrow is a mystery, and today is a gift from God.’” The fifth annual Tyler Ugolyn

Tournament, held at Our Lady of Fatima from January 26 through February 10, attracted 44 teams from 12 Diocese of Bridgeport schools. This year, for the first time, all-star games were played by seventh- and eighth-grade boys and girls. Basketball is important to the Ugolyn family. Victor Ugolyn, a retired business executive, is a trustee at the Naismith Memorial Basketball Hall of Fame in Springfield, MA. Through the Tyler Ugolyn Foundation, his son’s love for the game is being maintained by the building of outdoor courts in the inner-city section of Springfield. “Tyler’s Courts,” they are called. “He had a great love for basketball and a great love for youngsters, obviously,” the senior Ugolyn is quoted on the Tyler Ugolyn Foundation webpage. “This is our way of continuing Tyler’s legacy.” n

May 2012

Review

Single Catholic Girl’s Survival Guide By PAM RITTMAN

Ladies, forget Oprah, “Dating For Dummies” or on-line articles with titles like, “What Traits Men Look for in a Girlfriend,” alongside a picture of a handsome man flirting with a beautiful model. The Catholic Girl’s Survival Guide for the Single Years, subtitled, “The Nuts and Bolts of Staying Sane and Happy While Waiting for Mr. Right” is a lighthearted, easy and enjoyable read that highlights everything from the myth to the reality of the single girl, from authentic femininity and beauty to the challenges they face as friends and family marry and they remain single—maybe longer than expected. This is not a self-help book, but an honest look, laced with humor, at what women think about their present state in life and how critical it is to make the right choices to fulfill their lives and live happily within the teachings of the Church while waiting for marriage. Author Emily Stimpson highlights the value of friendships, taking advantage of resources available only to singles, career choices, who to date, dating etiquette and, central to everyone’s concern, sex and chastity through living Pope John Paul II’s Theology of the Body. All of these are essential in preparing for a blessed marriage, one that will lead loving spouses to eternal life. Stimpson doesn’t

promise a rose garden; she provides statistics on marriage and divorce. In the face of this, she offers a counter-cultural plan to pursue the feminine genius of being beautiful, receptive and nurturing in a world that has encouraged women to be controlling and aggressive: emotionally, professionally and sexually. Stimpson devotes an entire chapter about the struggles of loneliness. She suggests ways to turn to God for comfort and consolation, and steers readers to think about activities to help alleviate alienation. Interweaved within each chapter are “Ask the Single Girl” Q & A’s, along with entertaining side bars and boxes on movie and book tips, fashion, quotes from Pope John Paul II, the saints and much more. Everything about this book speaks to the heart and soul of the single woman. Even when the desire for marriage and family remains unfulfilled and is questioned, Stimpson says, there are opportunities, blessings, lessons and experiences to be gained as single ladies hold strong to

First Communion, St. Rose of Lima

Emily Stimpson

their unwavering faith and allow God’s will in their lives. Emily is like your best friend; the one who will be there when you need her to chat or get together for a cup of coffee. This book is a delight for every single woman, whether she is 30, 55 or older. Emily Stimpson is a freelance Catholic writer based in Steubenville, Ohio. She is contributing editor to Our Sunday Visitor Newsweekly and a regular columnist for Lay Witness. Her work has appeared in the National Catholic Register, Faith and Family and elsewhere. To learn more about Emily, read her “scribblings” or arrange a speaking engagement, visit www.Emilystimpson.com. (The Catholic Girl’s Survival Guide for the Single Years can be purchased through the publisher’s website: emmausroad.org; at amazon.com; or at most Catholic bookstores.) n

FIRST COMMUNION—St. Rose of Lima School students received their First Holy Communion on May 5 at St. Rose of Lima Parish in Newtown. Students pictured from Jeanne Vitetta’s class include (below, l-r) Kayla Ondy, Ella Schmitt, Allison Pavlicek, Justin Zemo, Gregory Gargano, Angelo LaManna, Ryan Gommo, Michael Queenan, Tyler Griffin, Hope Johnston, Ashley Gotch, Mia Sadlouskos, and Lara McDougall. Holy Communion is the second of seven sacraments beginning with Baptism, and a time of joy and celebration as young boys and girls receive the Eucharist for the first time. (Photo by Bernadette Queenan)

May 2012

Obituaries

Sr. Anne Marie Dorff, 74 TRUMBULL—Sr. Anne Marie Dorff, SSND, who was principal of St. Catherine of Siena School in Trumbull for more than three decades, died of cancer on April 30 at Villa Notre Dame Wellness Center in Wilton. She was 74 years old and had been a professed member of the School Sisters of Notre Dame for 54 years. Dorothy Anne Dorff was born on March 28, 1938, in Brooklyn, NY, the oldest of five children. From her first days in school at St. Anselm in Brooklyn she was educated by SSNDs. She graduated from high school at the Notre Dame Aspiranture in Fort Lee, NJ, in 1955 and later that summer entered the School Sisters of

Notre Dame. She was given the religious name Anne Marie and made her first vows in July 1957. Sr. Anne Marie was a 1965 graduate of the College of Notre Dame of Maryland and earned her master’s in reading education from Hofstra University. After teaching in Baltimore, MD, and Westbury, NY, she came as principal to St. Catherine’s, where she remained for 31 years. Even in retirement, Sr. Anne Marie maintained her connection to the diocesan schools, volunteering as a teacher assistant at St. Catherine Academy special needs school in Fairfield. A Mass of Christian burial was held for Sr. Anne Marie on May 4 at St. Catherine of Siena

Church in Trumbull. Burial followed at St. Mary’s Cemetery in Bethel. Sr. Anne Marie is survived by two sisters and a brother. One of her sisters, Sr. John Maureen Dorff, MSBT, of Philadelphia, is also a professed religious. n

A Womens View from page 13 “When tillage begins, other arts follow. The farmers are, therefore, the founders of human civilization.” After World War II ended, my father gave up his “victory garden” for a very fortuitous trade-off. The city of Albany, where we lived, offered city land to people to farm free, if they so chose. My father was, I think, first in that line, and right up until a few years before he died in 1985, he farmed that land each year, still bringing home—and giving away to many people poorer than we were—what he and the earth produced, thanks to the good Lord. Every time I pass a farmers’ stand, I, personally, want these great signs of nature’s bounty to thrive, remembering that’s what my father taught me. I can still hear his voice after he harvested some of his humongous red gems, expressing a joy, like a prayer, saying, “Antoinette, look at the size of these tomatoes!” June 1 is my Dad’s 110th birthday, which, of course, he now spends with the Lord in Heaven. That day, I’ll be celebrating with a tremendous tomato in my hand, and a heart full of joy and gratitude for the caring father God gave me. n

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Deceased Clergy of the Diocese of Bridgeport: May 27-June 30 May Year 27 Rev. Joseph F. Sohovich........................................................................ 1957 28 Rev. John P. McNerney......................................................................... 1969 29 Msgr. John J. Barney.............................................................................. 1973 Rev. Harry Holbrook.............................................................................. 2005 30 Rev. Adelard A. Jalbert.......................................................................... 1960 31 Rev. Dennis A. Szocs, O.F.M................................................................. 1985 June Year 1 Rev. Msgr. Jean C. Tetreault.................................................................. 2003 2 Rev. Thomas M. Ford............................................................................ 1992 3 Rev. Michael F. Blanchard..................................................................... 1982 Rev. Richard J. Grady............................................................................ 1993 5 Msgr. John Hayes.................................................................................. 1964 6 Rev. Thomas J. Hanley.......................................................................... 1954 7 Rev. James J. Dennis............................................................................. 2003 8 Msgr. Bernard S. Scanlon....................................................................... 2004 9 Msgr. James G. Lengen.......................................................................... 1999 Rev. James J. O’Malley.......................................................................... 1996 13 Deacon Anthony LaBua......................................................................... 1988 14 Msgr. William F. Kearney................................................................1974 15 Msgr. John H. Landry......................................................................1967 19 Rev. Robert S. McBride....................................................................1982 20 Msgr. John J. Bumstead....................................................................1996 21 Rev. Albert D. Talbot.......................................................................1962 22 Rev. Xavier Renda............................................................................2009 24 Rev. Frankln J. Corrigan...................................................................1974 25 Rev. Albert A. Tomasko...................................................................1978 28 Rev. John J. Draper..........................................................................1966 30 Rev. Arthur E. Norton......................................................................2004 Msgr. Thomas P. Mooney.................................................................1956 Msgr. John E. Tomis........................................................................1986

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May 2012

Nuestra Voz

Gracias y bienvenido Arzobispo Lori Bridgeport. El obispo defendió los derechos de la Iglesia en el Estado de Connecticut cuando una ley legislativa quiso cambiar la forma en que la iglesia trabaja. También a nivel nacional el Obispo Lori ha defendido los derechos de la iglesia y la fe. Durante la celebración de Acción de Gracias en la catedral se sentía un ambiente mezclado de alegría y tristeza. “Perdemos a una persona que hizo una labor muy buena en muchos aspectos de la diócesis, y al mismo tiempo contentos y llenos de gozo porque se ha ganado una posición en una arquidiócesis muy merecida” dijo Ramón Jiménez, Caballero de Colón de la Parroquia de San Carlos. El pasado 16 de mayo comenzó una nueva etapa para el Arzobispo Lori. La gente de Baltimore lo recibió con los brazos abiertos. Ya ellos saben quien es él, y el trabajo que lo distinguió en la Diócesis de Bridgeport. Conociendo la importancia del hispano, también se dirigió a ellos en español, prueba que seguirá apreciando a la comunidad hispana donde quiera que él vaya. n

Por SONIA BURNS

“El Señor ha bendecido la Iglesia del Condado de Fairfield, amo a la gente de Dios de la diócesis de Bridgeport y voy a echarle de menos. Durante los años que hemos trabajado juntos, hemos crecido en tamaño y en santidad; la Iglesia del Condado de Fairfield hoy está en paz. Gracias, queridos amigos, por esta oportunidad de vida”, estas fueron las palabras de despedida del Obispo William E. Lori el pasado 5 de mayo durante la Misa de Acción de Gracias en la Catedral de Saint Augustine al concluir su servicio como el cuarto obispo de la Diócesis de Bridgeport. El Obispo Lori fue instalado como el dieciseisavo Arzobispo de Baltimore el pasado 16 de mayo en la Catedral de Mary our Queen. Desde su instalación como obispo de la Diócesis de Bridgeport el 19 de marzo del año 2001, el Obispo Lori se preocupó por los hispanos. Días después de su llegada a la diócesis tuve el honor de sentarme con él para enseñarle una forma rápida de aprender un idioma tan difícil como el español. El deseo primordial del nuevo obispo fue de celebrar su primera misa a un grupo de señoras hispanas encargadas del Centro Urbano en la Parroquia de San Carlos Borromeo en Bridgeport. Estas señoras escuchaban la Santa Misa en la capilla del Centro Urbano todos los sábados a las siete de la mañana antes de iniciar sus labores como voluntarias. Durante esta ocasión el Obispo Lori pasó muchas horas preparándose para celebrar la Santa Misa a estas humildes señoras en su propio idioma. “¿Cómo lo hice, Sonia?” “Muy bien Obispo Lori”, le respondí. Celebrar la Santa Misa en español era importante para el Obispo Lori aunque muchas veces él no estaba seguro si la gente entendía su español, pero los aplausos de la gente siempre le reafirmaban su duda. Para el hispano también era importante escuchar a su obispo hablar el español. El legado que el Obispo Lori dejó en la Diócesis de Bridgeport fue su compromiso con la comunidad hispana. El obispo se aseguró de que los hispanos

“GRACIAS, QUERIDOS AMIGOS, por esta oportunidad de vida”, estas fueron las palabras de despedida del Obispo Lori el 5 de mayo durante la Misa de Acción de Gracias en la Catedral de Saint Augustine. “THANK YOU, DEAR FRIENDS, for the opportunity of a lifetime,” were the words of farewell Bishop Lori gave the people of God in the Diocese of Bridgeport during his Mass of Thanksgiving on May 5 in St. Augustine Cathedral.

fueran bien apoyados en su fe. La celebración de los sacramentos y la Santa Misa en español en las parroquias donde había un número de feligreses que deberían escuchar los servicios religiosos en su propio idioma era importante para él. El Obispo Lori participó en muchas celebraciones religiosas hispanas, porque él sabía lo que estas solemnidades significaban para el hispano católico. Fueron muchas las procesiones del Viernes Santo en la Parroquia de San Carlos en Bridgeport que él caminó con el hispano, y participó en muchas celebraciones a la Virgen de Guadalupe en varias parroquias de la diócesis. “El Obispo Lori es muy humano, muy espiritual, se preocupa por los problemas sociales del hispano, su carácter alegra a la comunidad, y eso le gusta a la gente”, dijo Edwin González, feligrés de la Parroquia de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe en Danbury. Durante su estadía en la Diócesis de Bridgeport, las vocaciones crecieron tanto en el sacerdocio como en el diaconado. El Obispo Lori ordenó a muchos diáconos hispanos y la ordenación de sacerdotes hispanos aumentó. El obispo todos los

años se reunía con los jóvenes, esperando que muchos de ellos escucharan el llamado a las vocaciones. “Me impresionó el trabajo con los jóvenes, logró mucho

y aumentó los semina-ristas, lo vamos a extrañar en la labor de defender los derechos de la fe” dice Lucy Rodríguez, feligrés de la Parroquia de San Pedro en

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Column

May 2012

Repeal of Death Penalty Important Victory Guest Columnist By Rev Richard Murphy Fr. Murphy is pastor of Our Lady of Peace Parish in the Lordship section of Stratford.

ast month, Connecticut became the fifth state in five years to repeal the death penalty. In Connecticut and across the country, the Catholic Church has been a leading voice calling for an end to capital punishment. When opposing an execution in 2005, the Catholic Bishops of Connecticut made their position clear: “The death penalty offers the tragic illusion that we can defend life only by taking life.” As Catholics, we should be proud that our state finally has moved beyond this tragic illusion. The papacy of John Paul II brought increased attention to the role that Catholics and those who value life must play in efforts to end capital punishment. In 1999,

he visited the United States, made a renewed call to end the death penalty, and made a personal plea to the Governor of Missouri to stop an execution; the governor granted the request. His opposition to capital punishment had its basis in the consistent life ethic, which affirms that life is sacred and demands its protection from conception to natural death. Pope Benedict XVI has continued the Church’s advocacy for an end to capital punishment. In November 2011, the Holy Father received a delegation from Illinois that had successfully worked for repeal of the death penalty in that state. He congratulated the delegation and hoped that Illinois’ example would “encourage political and legislative initiatives being

promoted in a number of countries to eliminate the death penalty.” In what will be a memorable day, Connecticut, too, will have the honor of being celebrated by the Vatican for its repeal of the death penalty. As Connecticut debated the death penalty, I saw firsthand the important role played by the Church. During the past several years, parishes across the state have studied the death penalty, organized presentations on the issue, and written to their legislators asking them to repeal the death penalty. My own parish in Stratford, Our Lady of Peace, had the honor of hosting a talk from Vicki Schieber in October 2010. Vicki’s story is truly remarkable. Her daughter Shannon, blessed with beauty, intelligence, and most importantly a compassionate heart, was studying at the Wharton School of Business at the University of Pennsylvania. On May 7, 1998, an intruder broke into Shannon’s apartment and brutally raped and murdered her. Vicki recounted to our parish how this tragedy tested the deeply held Catholic principles instilled in her by her family. Amazingly,

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through God’s grace, prayer, and the support of her parish and family, Vicki stuck to her principles: she would continue to support life and oppose the death penalty, even for Shannon’s killer. Her family had to actively fight a prosecutor in Philadelphia

“The bishops of Connecticut made their position clear: “The death penalty offers the tragic illusion that we can defend life only by taking life.” who wanted the death penalty in Shannon’s case. Fortunately for Vicki and her family, the murderer was sentenced to life in prison without parole, not the death penalty. I am in awe of Vicki’s courage and commitment to promote life, even in the face of horrific

tragedy. She is not alone. Here in Connecticut, over 180 murder victims’ family members in the state signed a letter urging the Connecticut General Assembly to end the death penalty. When the Connecticut General Assembly voted to repeal the death penalty, it moved me to see that the Church’s teaching had made an impact. The teaching of the bishops and personal stories of individuals like Vicki had resonated throughout the state. Some legislators made clear that they cast their vote so as to promote a culture of life. In an eloquent floor speech, Rep. Michael Molgano of Stamford cited John Paul II’s writings on the death penalty, and said that he would support repealing the death penalty because it “works towards measures that value life while upholding justice.” That is exactly what Connecticut did when it replaced the death penalty with life in prison without release: valued life while upholding justice. As Catholics continue to work for repeal of the death penalty, I am hopeful that more states will follow Connecticut’s example. n

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May 2012

Column

HSA teens grow in knowledge of Christ presence in my life.” Teens By Alyssa Brelsford were challenged to look inside Alyssa Brelsford is a member themselves of Our Lady of Peace Parish in and see what course Stratford and attends St. Joseph their lives College in West Hartford. were taking. They had time one who is sent, but even before to reflect on the reality of the that, he is an ‘expert’ on Jesus.” world around them and how they Through the retreat weekend, personally were living their lives the teens learn about Christ and and what they needed to change. build a personal friendship with Together they discovered that him. During the weekend the their hope for happiness and a teens had the opportunity to full life lies in an encounter with attend talks, have small group Christ. discussions and participate in Kiersten went on to say that, team building activities. These “This weekend was an opportuactivities were combined with nity for me to spend time with strong moments of prayer such as God and reflect on my relationAdoration and the opportunity to ship with Him. One of the other go to Confession. highlights of the retreat for me was Kiersten Lynch, a junior at St. meeting so many people my age Joseph High School in Trumbull, who are excited about their faith said that “The talks and group and want to share it with others.” discussions helped me develop Andre Escaleira, a junior from my faith and grow in understand- Kolbe-Cathedral High School in ing and recognition of God’s Bridgeport, has been in HSA for

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he weekend of April 27-29, over 30 high school students attended a leadership retreat weekend at the Seton-Neumann Retreat Center in Danbury. These students have joined a leadership program called High School Apostles. They are high school teens who want to respond to the Lord’s call to be saints and to “Go and make disciples of all nations” (Mt 28:19). The teens want to make a real difference in the world by striving to be holy and aiming to build up everything in Christ. As apostles, they strive to live the spirituality of Mary, meaning they aim to cooperate in her mission of bringing all her children to the Lord Jesus. Pope Benedict XVI said “An apostle is

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one year now. He shared that “The 2012 HSA Spring Retreat was a great time where I was able to renew my commitment to God, spend time with Him, get to know Him better, and make new and awesome friends.” The teens met other young people like themselves who were interested in the same thing, namely living out a Christian life, which is very countercultural in 2012. They developed deep friendships that are rooted in Christ. In the talks and small group discussions the youth discovered the tools that they need to persevere in their paths towards sanctity including: friendship in Christ, formation of faith, sacraments, Mass and daily prayer. Saturday afternoon Carol Pinard, director of religious education programs for the diocese gave a talk about the 20th Century Martyrs. The talk was accompanied by an exhibit of the martyrs’ relics. The teens were inspired to live their lives in a radical way as the saints did. Madeleine Veith, a senior from Fairfield Warde High School and a parishioner from

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St. Thomas Aquinas Parish in Fairfield, said that the martyrs inspired her by “their love and devotion. It struck me how important faith was for them to do all of this. To hear about so much devotion, followed directly with Adoration and Confession was absolutely perfect.” Madeleine went on to say that the saints inspire her to live her life in a similar way. The High School Apostles were founded by the Marian Community of Reconciliation five years ago with the support of the diocese. The HSA strive to build friendships with one another and help each other “fight the good fight of faith”(1 Timothy 1:19). They attend annual retreats, participate in pilgrimages which have included Rome, Spain and North American Martyrs Shrine in New York. They lead in diocesan youth events and Confirmation retreats, learn to give talks, lead small groups and receive formation on how to be youth leaders. The teens acquire the skills, knowledge and interior life to be confident witnesses to Christ. n

BY ED WALDRON

Bits & Pieces

TRIP TO ATLANTIC CITY to benefit the Knights of Columbus Council 12615 and St. Charles Borromeo Parish in Bridgeport will take place Sun.Mon, Sept. 23-24. Cost: $130/ person, double occupancy; deposit of $75 is due by Tues., May 29. For more information and for reservations, call Mike Basso: 203.334.2816. FREE AND LOW-COST MAMMOGRAPHY will be offered through St. Vincent’s SWIM Women’s Imaging Center for women age 35 and older on Thurs., May 31, from 10 am-4 pm at St. Joseph’s Manor, 6448 Main St., Trumbull. Mammograms are free for those who do not have health insurance, have financial limitations and qualify for assistance, and discounted for those

who do not have insurance but do not qualify for free services. Appointments are necessary; a physician order and insurance card must be brought to the appointment. For more information or to schedule an appointment, call 203.576.5500. SLOVAK ALLIANCE of Greater Bridgeport will hold an election of officers on Thurs., May 31, at 7 pm at Holy Name of Jesus Parish, Stratford. For more information, contact Paul Misur: 203.583.0235 or pauljmisur@yahoo.com. WINE TASTING hosted by the Immaculate High School, Danbury, Fine Arts department will be held Sat., June 2, at 7 pm in Immaculate’s cafeteria. Evening of food, music and fine wines. Reservations: $20/person

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in advance, $25 at the door, plus one bottle of wine per couple for the “Wall of Wine” raffle. For more information, visit the web site: www.immaculatehs. org or contact Julie Sorcek: 203.744.1510, ext.157, or jsorcek@immaculatehs.org. TRIBUTE TO DEAN MARTIN, featuring Jack Lynn, will be held on Sat., June 2, at St. Ann Melkite Catholic Church, 181 Clapboard Ridge Rd., Danbury. Doors open at 7 pm; showtime 8 pm. Admission: $20 includes complimentary hors d’oeuvres, coffee and desserts. Seating is cabaret style; BYOB. Limited seating. For more information and for reservations, call 203.743.2401 or 203.743.5119. HEALING FOR VICTIMS of childhood sexual abuse will be the main topic when Dawn Eden, author of My Peace I Give You: Healing Sexual Wounds with the Help of the Saints speaks at St. Peter Parish, Danbury, on Mon., June 4, from 7:30-9 pm. Free

admission; free will offerings are appreciated. Doors open at 7:15 pm. For more information, contact the parish: 203.743.2707. LEARNING FOR A LIFETIME, Fairfield University’s week of classes for adults who know learning doesn’t end with graduation, will be held Mon.-Fri., June 4-8, from 9:30 am-3 pm. No homework or exams. Tuition is $230. For more information, visit www.fairfield. edu/lifelonglearning. To register, call Laura Keller: 203.254.4110. FAMILY SUPPORT GROUP is offered at St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Bridgeport, first Tues. of each month (June 5) from 4-5:30 pm for adult patients, family members and friends who are coping with a diagnosis of: Leukemia, Lymphoma, Multiple Myeloma, and Hodgkin’s Disease. No reservation required. For more information, call the SWIM line: 203.576.6158 or email tmclaugh@stvincent.org.

CURSILLO ULTREYAS are held at locations around the diocese: Tues., June 5, at Our Lady of Fatima Parish, Wilton, at 7:30 pm. LOOK GOOD FEEL BETTER program for female cancer patients will be held at St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Bridgeport, on Thurs., June 7, from 1-3 pm. By promoting emotional recovery, the program helps women look and feel their best. Lunch is provided. Reservations required. For more information and for reservations, call 203.576.6158. ST. ANTHONY FEAST will be held at St. Margaret Shrine, 2539 Park Ave., Bridgeport, the weekend of June 8-10. Fri., June 8, from 6 pm-11 pm; Sat., June 9, from 2-11 pm. Sun., June 10, outdoor Mass and procession in honor of St. Anthony starts at 12 noon; feast continues from 1-10 pm. Delicious Italian food entertainment, rides and a raffle. For more information call 203.333.9627.

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May 2012

Bits & Pieces SPRING TAG SALE will be held at St. Stephen Parish, Trumbull, on Sat., June 9, from 9 am-3 pm and Sun., June 10, from 8:30 am-1 pm. For more information, call 203.268.6217. SECULAR FRANCISCAN Holy Spirit Fraternity invites everyone to a prayer and social meeting at St. Emery Parish, Fairfield, on Sat., June 9, at 9:30 am. “Come and See” if you are being called to a vocation in the Secular Franciscan Order. For more information, call 203.255.8801. GOSPEL OF LIFE SOCIETY will meet at St. Mary Parish, Norwalk, on Sat., June 9, at 10 am after the 9 am. Pro-Life Mass. A panel of nurse practitioners will speak on side effects of birth control pills. There will also be a Prevent Assisted Suicide Meeting. For more information, contact Eileen Bianchini: 203.847.5727 or stmarygols@aol.com. MASS CELEBRATING MARRIAGE will be hosted by the Knights of Columbus Assembly 107 on Sun., June 10, at 12 noon at St. Margaret’s Shrine, Park Ave., Bridgeport, as part of the Feast of St. Anthony. All couples invited. For more information, contact Mike Basso: 203.334.2816. NUTRITION FOR CANCER SURVIVORS is offered at St. Vincent’s Medical Center, Bridgeport, the second Wed. of • Newspapers

each month (June 13) from 4:305:30 pm in the Elizabeth Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care. To register or for more information please contact the SWIM Hot Line at 203.576.6158. HUGE TAG SALE will be held at St. Marguerite Bourgeoys Parish, Brookfield, on Fri.-Sat., June 15-16, from 9 am-4 pm. Something for everyone! For more information, call 203.775.5117. LIFE IN THE SPIRIT SEMINAR will be held Sat., June 23, from 9:15 am-2:15 pm at Christ the King Parish, Trumbull. Receive a life-changing relationship with Jesus. Registration fee $10. Bring a brown bag lunch. Registration requested by Sat., June 16, but walk-ins are welcome. For more information or to register call Fran: 203.744.1856 or email s.m.hood@sbcglobal.net. STROKE SURVIVORS and caregivers support group meets at St. Vincent’s Medical Center the third Wed. of each month (June 19) from 5:30-7 pm. The group provides emotional support as well as strategies and techniques to improve quality of life. No charge; free parking with validated ticket. For more information, call occupational therapist Melissa Kopp: 203.576.5361, or social worker Helen Polewoj: 203.576.5608. MASS OF HEALING

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ANNUAL SCHOLARSHIP DINNER to benefit St. Catherine Academy school for special needs children will be held Sun., June 10, at the Barone Center of Fairfield University beginning with cocktails at 5 pm. Cocktails, dinner and live auction. Table sponsor: $2,000—table for 10; individual tickets: $200. Reservations needed by Tues., June 5. For more information, contact Helen Burland: 203.540.5381, ext .2010, or hburland@diobpt.org. AND HOPE sponsored by the Charismatic Renewal Office will be offered Mon., June 25, at 7:30 pm at Christ the King Parish, Trumbull, with Fr. Larry Carew. For more information, call 203.268.8253. SUMMER CAMPS FOR SPORTS, will be held at Immaculate High School, Danbury. Camps are offered for students entering fourth through eighth grades. Cost: $160/ses-

sion unless otherwise specified. Camps begin with wrestling & basketball on Mon., June 25. For more information, visit the IHS web site: www.immaculatehs. org, or contact Bryan Pinabell: 203.744.1510, ext.159, or bpinabell@immaculatehs.org. SUMMER ENRICHMENT CAMP at Lauralton Hall, 200 High St., Milford, offers a sports program plus visual arts, creative writing, science and technology and cooking classes for kids ages 6 and up. Morning, afternoon and all day sessions, from June 25-Aug. 17. For a complete list, or to register, visit www.seforkids. com/or contact Nicolle Camara: 203.877.2786, ext 136, or email ncamara@lauraltonhall.org. CARNIVAL will be held at St. Rose of Lima Parish, Newtown, June 26-30. Rides, games and lots of food from 6-10:30 pm each evening. Kiddie tent with face painting and coloring. Bingo Night Fri., June 29, $17. Doors open at 5:45pm; games begin at 6:30. For more information, call the parish office: 203.426.1014. “EXPLORE YOUR SUMMER”: Sacred Heart

Academy’s Summer Program in Hamden invites girls in middle school to discover new subjects, develop skills, and improve their sports techniques. Held the weeks of July 9-13 and July 16-20. Registration is first come, first served. For more information or to register, contact Fran Saukas: 203.287.8181, ext. 230, or fsaukas@sacredhearthamden.org. SAINTS OF SPAIN PILGRIMAGE with Fr. Robert Uzzilio will take place Sept. 13-22. Experience the homeland of Ignatius Loyola, Theresa of Avila, John of the Cross and Francis Xavier. Cost of $2,845 is all-inclusive. For complete itinerary or to register contact St. James Parish Center, Stratford: 203.375.5887. JOURNEY OF A LIFETIME a 15-day pilgrimage to the Holy Land, Cairo and Rome will be hosted by St. Mary and St. Benedict-Our Lady of Montserrat parishes in Stamford with Fr. Rolando Torres starting Sat., Feb. 11, 2013. Cost: $4,023. For more information, contact Fr. Torres: 203.324.7321 or rolandomalak@gmail.com. n

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