Four County Catholic April 2015 by Diocese of Norwich

“E Re aste ma r in Ble in ssi Jo ng hn m y 15 :9 lo s! ve ” Volume 27 Number 4 • April 2015

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Four County Catholic April 2015

As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you. Remain in my love.

Four County

atholic Serving the Counties of Middlesex, New London, Tolland, Windham & Fishers Island, NY

- John 15:9 as quoted by Sister Elissa Rinere, sharing insights on the joy of Easter.

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

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Become the person you 26 were meant to be, and you will set the world on fire. - St. Catherine of Siena as quoted by Brian J. Daly in describing the uplifting experience of student life for the young women at the Academy of the Holy Family in Baltic.

His (Pope Francis) pontificate is allowing the world to rediscover the great contribution of faith to culture and civic society. - Christopher J. Hale, Time Magazine

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The deadline for advertising is the second Monday of the preceding month. (Discount rate available to Diocesan-sponsored ministries and programs.) The editorial deadline is the third Monday of the preceding month. Articles limited to 500-word max; letters to the editor limited to 200-word max and must include name, address and phone number for verification. Email photos as JPEG attachments and MS Word copy to comtrina@norwichdiocese.net or fax to 860.859.1253. Publication not guaranteed. The Editor reserves the right to reject, omit or edit all editorial and advertising copy. Published opinions and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of this newspaper.

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Four County Catholic April 2015

The Most Reverend

Michael R. Cote, D.D.

Bishop of Norwich

Confident in What the Love of Christ Can Do My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: Easter season is upon us and reminds us so joyfully of the regenerative power of God’s love. It has been a long and harsh winter and an especially trying time given the violence and unrest in the world. We are renewed in the Risen Christ, our source of hope as we journey forward. On any important journey, we may see random signs along the way that happen to catch our attention. They may be totally unexpected, and of little interest at first. Ordinary signs. Something written on a coffee cup, or a traffic sign. Maybe a newspaper headline or a book title -- everyday messages that, after a second thought, get us thinking. They might even generate a spiritual thought, where one was never

intended. Just recently, driving on Route 12 between Norwich and Groton, I found myself behind a bakery truck, with a Pepperidge Farm logo. On the back of this large white truck, just below the company logo were the words, “Never have an ordinary day.” Long after the truck turned and I continued on, that simple message kept replaying in my mind. I began thinking that this was a message that could easily apply to a faithful Catholic. It stuck with me. It brought to mind, as I continued driving, that our encounter with the living Christ at Easter ensures that our lives will never, even for a day, be ordinary. Rather, our lives are brightened

and enriched with the grace of salvation given to us by the Risen Christ. Our lives are filled with the selfless opportunity to live our faith in ways that share

are now experiencing the Easter miracle of the Risen Christ. We are on the journey of our life, earthly and eternal. On this journey, we are accompanied by the Holy Father, Pope Francis, as he encourages us to “travel in the world as Jesus did and to make our whole existence a sign of love for our brothers and sisters. If we are witnesses of the living Christ, so many people will encounter Jesus in us, in our witness.” The journey of a faithful Catholic is a continuous opportunity to live our faith and evangelize the values and truths of the living Gospel. Our journey follows a path guided by the Word and lighted by Christ’s love and mercy. The Easter season before us helps

Never Have An Ordinary Day. the good news and good will so generously gifted to us by God. Safe to say that the marketing folks at Pepperidge Farm didn’t quite have this interpretation in mind when they crafted their words. Wouldn’t they be surprised at the direction their message took that afternoon? We have just concluded our Lenten journey to the Cross and

renew the joy of the journey, even when the trials of the world threaten to erode hope, peace and good will among many branches of the human family. This coming June, Pope Francis will visit Sarajevo, capital of Bosnia and Herzegovina. The theme of the visit will be “Peace Be With You.” These were the words with which Jesus greeted the disciples when He appeared to them after the Resurrection. During this season of reliving the miracle of Easter, we are confident in what the love of Christ can do. We pray for peace. We labor for peace and justice. We will let faith lead the way. Sincerely yours in Christ’s love, Bishop Michael R. Cote

Confiados en lo Que el Amor de Cristo Puede Hacer Queridos Hermanos y Hermanas: El tiempo de Pascua está sobre nosotros y nos recuerda tan alegremente el poder renovador del amor de Dios. Ha sido un largo y duro invierno y un tiempo especialmente difícil debido a la violencia y los disturbios en el mundo. Mientras avanzamos en el recorrido somos renovados en Cristo resucitado, nuestra fuente de esperanza. En cualquier viaje importante, a lo largo del camino podemos ver repentinos anuncios que pueden llamar nuestra atención. Pueden ser totalmente inesperados y al principio de poco interés. Letreros ordinarios. A veces escrito en una taza de café o en una señal de tráfico. Tal vez un titular de periódico o un título de un libro- mensajes cotidianos que,

después de pensarlo dos veces, nos hacen reflexionar. Incluso podrían crear donde uno nunca lo pensó, un pensamiento espiritual. Recientemente conduciendo por la ruta 12 entre Norwich y Groton, me encontré detrás de un camión de panadería, con el logo de Pepperidge Farm. En la parte posterior de este gran camión blanco, justo debajo del logotipo de la empresa estaba el lema “Nunca tengo un día ordinario.” Mucho después de que el camión giró y yo continué, ese sencillo mensaje se mantuvo repitiendo en mi mente. Me puse a pensar que se trataba de un mensaje que fácilmente podría aplicarse a un católico fiel. Se me quedó grabado. A medida que continuaba conduciendo, me trajo a la mente que nuestro en-

cuentro con Cristo vivo en la Pascua asegura que nuestras vidas nunca serán ordinarias, ni siquiera por un día. Más bien, nuestras vidas se iluminan y se enriquecen con la gracia de la salvación dada a nosotros por Cristo resucitado. Nuestras vidas están llenas de oportunidad desinteresada a vivir nuestra fe en forma que comparta la buena nueva y buena voluntad tan generosamente dotada a nosotros por Dios. Es seguro decir que la gente de publicidad de Pepperidge Farm no tenía esta interpretación en mente cuando hicieron su logo. ¿No se llenarían de sorpresa por el sentido que tomó su mensaje esa tarde? Recién hemos concluido nuestro camino cuaresmal de la Cruz y ahora estamos experimentando el milagro de la Pascua de Cristo

resucitado. Estamos en el recorrido de nuestra vida terrenal y eterna. En este viaje, nos acompaña el Santo Padre, el Papa Francisco, mientras él nos anima a “viajar en el mundo como lo hizo Jesús y hacer toda nuestra existencia un signo de amor por nuestros hermanos y hermanas. Si somos testigos de Cristo vivo, mucha gente encontrará en nosotros a Jesús, en nuestro testimonio. “El viaje de un católico fiel no tiene fin. Es una continua oportunidad para vivir nuestra fe y evangelizar los valores y las verdades del Evangelio vivo. Nuestro viaje sigue una ruta guiada por la Palabra e iluminada por el amor y la misericordia de Cristo. La temporada de Pascua ante nosotros nos ayuda a renovar la alegría del recorrido, incluso cuando los juicios del mundo

amenazan con estropear la esperanza, la paz y la buena voluntad entre muchas ramas de la familia humana. Seguiremos la luz. Este próximo mes de junio, el Papa Francisco visitará Sarajevo, capital de Bosnia y Herzegovina. El lema de la visita será “La paz este con usted.” Estas fueron las palabras con las que Jesús saludó a los discípulos cuando se les apareció después de la Resurrección. Durante esta temporada de revivir el milagro de la Pascua, estamos confiados en lo que el amor de Cristo puede hacer. Oramos por la paz. Trabajamos por la paz y la justicia. Dejaremos que la fe guíe el camino. Atentamente en el amor de Cristo, Obispo Michael R. Cote Translated by Paulina Angulo

Four County Catholic April 2015

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

Clergy Appointments Reverend Brian Maxwell, from Parochial Vicar, Saint Bernard Parish, Rockville, to Temporary Administrator, Saint Patrick Parish, East Hampton. Effective: March 6, 2015. Reverend Walter Nagle, from Saint Patrick Parish, East Hampton, to Leave of Absence for Personal reasons. Effective: March 6, 2015. ~ Monsignor Robert L. Brown, Chancellor ~

Holy Hour for Vocations The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour: Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations vocations@norwichdiocese.net

(860) 887-9294

www.God-Calls.com

April 23, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Sagrado Corazon de Jesus, Windham May 21, 2015 â&#x20AC;˘ 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Saint Joseph, Dayville Reverend Brian Christopher Maxwell, Ordained to Priesthood on May 25, 2013, by the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich

Juan Aguirre Theology English Studies St. Mary Seminary Baltimore MD

Frank Gilbert 1st Year Theology Pope Saint John XXIII National Seminary Weston, MA

Michael Bovino 1st Year Philosophy Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Deacon Ron Blank 1st Year Theology Pope Saint John XXIII National Seminary Weston, MA

Jeffrey Ellis 3rd Year Theology Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Peter Langevin 3rd Year Theology Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Thomas Griffin 3rd Year Theology Blessed John XXIII National Seminary Weston, MA

For the Answer, see Page 18.

Four County Catholic April 2015

Director of Priestly Vocations

Reverend Gregory Galvin

Hope Filled News from Medellin, Columbia and to ultimately serve the diocese most specifically in English/Spanish bilingual parishes of the diocese. This hopefully will assist in strengthening these communities for years to come! Please keep these men, plus the one in application presently, and our transitional diaconate candidates in your prayers as we go through the Easter Season. God willing by the end of August, we

From left to right: Father Bob Washabaugh, Sister Mary Jude, Father Bernal, Daniel Agudelo Bernal, Davin Sebastian, Dharen Brochero, Father Henry Agudelo, Father Greg Galvin. Alleluia, Alleluia, Alleluia!!! He throughout the magnificence of to update everyone on that also is truly risen! Alleluia! the Spring season, so too are we later this Spring. As the snow melts away, the seeing the signs of the new spring There is other very hope-filled temperatures rise, and the birds for the diocese regarding voca- news as the result of the trip to begin to sing, we find ourselves as tions. God is answering our many Medellin Colombia that as I write children of God again invited to prayers for an increase of voca- this article I am presently returncelebrate the glory of our Lord’s tions. May the seeds that are being from, along with Sr. Mary Resurrection throughout the ginning to show the possibility Jude, Father Bob Washabaugh Easter season! Christ, the incar- come to full bloom soon! and Father Henry Agudelo. Tonate Word made flesh, has not What has been going on most gether, we just finished three days only made the invisible God visi- recently? This past March, Juan of intensive interviews with ten ble by His incarnation but has Aguirre was installed as both a different candidates who preopened wide the gates of heaven lector and acolyte, two steps taken sented themselves as very willing to all mankind through His com- while in seminary during the to come to learn English and conplete giving of Himself through journey towards the receiving of tinue their studies and formation His paschal mystery, His life, Holy Orders. Juan will hopefully to serve as priests of Jesus Christ. death and glorious Resurrection! receive Candidacy next Fall after We each come back to the diocese He has given each of us the exam- which at some point we hope the very excited about the possibiliple of Divine Love in action, the Bishop will then call him to Or- ties. Our task after the week of incomplete giving of self for others. ders, specifically, ordination to terviews was to choose “the best We are each called by God transitional diaconate. possible candidates” to present to through the gift of baptism to The Vocation Office is awaiting Bishop Cote. After he prayerfully learn to love as He loves us and to word on the official calling to or- decides whom we will invite to live out that love in our daily dination to transitional diaconate continue on this journey with the lives, and more particularly of seminarians Jeff Ellis, Tom diocese, we will extend that invithrough our particular vocation. Griffin and Peter Langevin for tation and hopefully by early May In the Vocation Office of the later this spring or early summer. begin the process of bringing diocese there is much during this We presently have one man those men here to the United Easter season for which we re- from the diocese working on the States and specifically to the diojoice. Just as nature begins to re- application for sponsorship from cese, to learn English, finish their open and come back to life the diocese; so I hope to be able seminary formation and studies

could have several additional seminarians! Thank you all very much for your continued prayers for and support of our seminarians, and your prayers for a continued increase of vocations to the priesthood, permanent diaconate, and consecrated religious life. God’s graciousness shows in the men He is sending to us! Praised be forever our risen Lord and Savior, Jesus Christ. Amen.

Thursday, April 9 St. Edward, Stafford Springs Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 7:00pm at Saint Edward Church, Stafford Springs. Saturday, April 11 5th Annual Catholic Women’s Conference St Bernard School, Uncasville 8:30am – 3:30pm featuring Genevieve Kineke. Don’t miss the rich message of authentic femininity. For more information please contact the Office of Faith Events 860- 848-2237 ext. 312. Sunday, April 12 Divine Mercy Sunday Sunday, April 12 St. Mary, Baltic Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 10:00am at Saint Mary’s Church, Baltic. Monday, April 13 The Resurrection: The Origin and Goal of the Christian Life St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel, Storrs, presents Fr. Frank J. Matera, Pastor of St. Mary’s Church in Simsbury and Emeritus Andrew-Kelly-Ryan Professor of Biblical Studies at Catholic University of America, at 7:30pm in the Aquinas Student Center, speaking on the meaning of Easter for us all. For more information please call 860-429-6436. Friday, April 17 St. Mary, Clinton Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 7:00pm at Saint Mary’s Church, Clinton.

Four County Catholic April 2015

Saturday, April 18 8th Annual Love of a Child Gala Join Outreach to Haiti for their annual gala at St Clements Castle in Portland. We hope you will attend our biggest fundraiser of the year to benefit all children in Haiti. A cocktail reception begins at 6:00 pm, followed by dinner and entertainment. A silent auction will offer Haitian artwork and other treasures. For tickets or details please visit our website www.outreacchtohaiti.org or call 860-887-1019 x817. Saturday, April 18 Workshop for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion The Diocesan Office of Worship will conduct a workshop for Extraordinary Ministers of Holy Communion who bring Communion to the sick in hospitals or nursing homes, and to the homebound. Registration deadline is Sunday, April 12. Place: St. Mary Czestochowa in Middletown. Registration begins at 9:00am, session I: 9:30 10:30am, session II: 11:00am to Noon, Departure at Noon. Cost is $20.00 and includes materials and Ritual Book. For more information call 860-848-2237x203 or go to www.norwichdiocese.orgfor the registration form. Sunday, April 19 25th Annual White Mass Will be celebrated at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, 213 Broadway, Norwich, at 9:00am. Brunch will immediately follow in the church hall. The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote will be the Celebrant, Deacon Gerald Shaw, MD, will be the Homilist, and the featured speaker will be Seth Flagg, LCDR (MC) USN. The topic will be “Keeping

the Faith: Caring for Wounded Marines.” The Chair of this event is Deacon Gerald Shaw, MD. The requested donation for breakfast is $25.00. Health care workers of all faiths are invited. For further information call Monsignor Brown at 860-887-9294, ext. 232. Monday, April 20 St. Mary, Portland and St. John, Middletown Confirmation Join Monsignor Leszek T. Janik,Vicar General, at 7:00pm at Saint Mary’s Church, Portland. Tuesday, April 21 20th Annual Secretaries Mass Join theMost Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich in thanksgiving for secretaries of all faiths, at 12:00pm at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich. Following the Mass a complimentary luncheon will be served. Homilist will be Rev. Brian Romanowski. For reservations or more information call 860-8879294, ext. 234. Thursday, April 23 Most Holy Trinity, Pomfret Confirmation Join Monsignor Robert L. Brown at 7:00pm at the Most Holy Trinity Church, Pomfret. Friday, April 24 Notre Dame, Durham & St. Colman, Middlefield Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 6:00pm at Saint Colman Church, Middlefield. Friday, April 24 St. Bernard, Rockville Confirmation Join Monsignor Robert L. Brown at 7:00pm at St. Bernard Church, Rockville.

Friday, April 24 St. Pius X, Middletown Confirmation Join Monsignor Leszek T. Janik, Vicar General, at 7:00pm at St. Pius X, Church, Middletown.

follow with award winning director, Leslie Neale. The forum will be held from 10:00am – 1:00pm, and preregistration is required. For more information please call Sheree at 860-848-2237 ext. 211.

Saturday, April 25 Catholic Charities Flames of Charity Gala Join Bishop Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishop of Norwich at the Mystic Marriott, Groton at 6:00pm to recognize and honor this year’s recipients. There will be a silent and live auction, with Kevin Hogan of News Channel 3 serving as MC. Proceeds from the event will benefit individuals and families of all faiths throughout Eastern CT. who receive services from Catholic Charities in the Diocese of Norwich. There are many sponsorship opportunities available. For more information, contact Christine Jackel, Development Coordinator at 860-886-1928 x12 or via e-mail cjackel@norwichdiocese.net.

Sunday, April 26 Diocesan Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 10:30am at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich. Sunday, April 26 All Hallows, Moosup Confirmation Join Monsignor Leszek T. Janik, Vicar General at 11:00am at All Hallows Church, Moosup. Sunday, May 3 Our Lady of Sorrows, Essex Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 12:00pm at Our Lady of Sorrows Church, Essex.

Saturday, April 25 St. Lawrence, Killingworth Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 10:00am at St. Lawrence Church, Killingworth. Saturday, April 25 St. Luke, Ellington Confirmation Join Monsignor Leszek T. Janik, Vicar General at 1:00pm at St. Luke, Ellington, Church, Ellington. Saturday, April 25 Restorative Justice Forum Restorative Justice Forum will be held at Christ the King Parish Hall, Old Lyme with a panel discussion to

Wednesday, May 6

Television Mass At 10:00 am Channel 20 WTXX, Charter. Channel 11 WCCT, Comcast Celebrant is Father Michael Phillippino

25th Annual White Mass For Healthcare Workers & Caregivers of All Faiths

Sunday, April 19th • 9:00 am Cathedral of Saint Patrick • 213 Broadway, Norwich For reservations or more information call 860-887-9294, ext. 232

Four County Catholic April 2015

Thursday, May 7 St. John, Plainfield & St. Augustine, Canterbury Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 7:00pm at St. John Church, Plainfield. Friday, May 8 St. Joseph, New London & St. Mary, New London Confirmation Join the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at 7:00pm at St. Joseph Church, New London. Saturday, May 9 St. Mary, Coventry & St. Thomas Aquinas Confirmation Join Monsignor Robert L. Brown at 11:00am at St. Mary Church, Coventry. Sunday, May 10 Saint Joseph, Chester Confirmation Join Monsignor Robert L. Brown at 10:00am at St. Joseph Church, Chester. Tuesday, May 12 St. Phillip, Ashford & St. Jude, Willington Confirmation Join Monsignor Robert L. Brown at 7:00pm at St. Phillip Church, Ashford. Thursday, May 14 Ascension Thursday Friday, May 15 St. Thomas Seminary Alumni Reunion Enjoy an evening catching up with former classmates, professors, and friends. Share memories and re-visit the magnificent building and grounds. Learn more about the new Seminary Alumni Association. Information and registration: www.stthomasseminaryreunion2015.eventbrite.com. Overnight accommodation available. For more information please call 860-242-5573 ext. 2602 or email: stsreunion@aohct.org.

ITALY PILGRIMAGE

“As for you (your name) every hair on your head has been counted (you are special to Jesus) so, do not be afraid of anything – and I (Jesus) promise you, that whoever gives a cup of water (a shoulder to lean on) to one of these lowly ones, because he (or she) is a disciple...

11 Days: October 12-22, 2015 ~ hosted by ~

REVEREND MONSIGNOR MICHAEL T. DONOHUE $3485 per person from New York (Air/land tour price is $2859 plus $626 govt. taxes/airline fuel surcharge) Tour Includes: Roundtrip Air from New York, First Class/Select Hotels, Most Meals, Comprehensive Sightseeing Visit Venice, Padua, Florence, Siena, Assisi and Rome, and Vatican City and a Papal Audience.

For a brochure and more information Contact Reverend Monsignor Donohue at: Office: 860-739-5208 or Cell: 869-460-4455 Email: MDono63200@aol.com

SPACE IS LIMITED! CALL OR EMAIL TODAY!

20th Annual

Secretaries Mass Tuesday, April 21st • 12:00pm Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich

Following the Mass a complimentary luncheon will be served. For reservations or more information call 860-887-9294, ext. 234

...will not want for his (her) reward.” Mathew 10:30-42

TV Mass April 1, 2015 10:00 am, Channel 20 WTXX or Channel 11 WCCT Fr. Ray Introvigne, Celebrant Masses of Healing Monday April 13 & April 27, 2015 2:00 pm Spiritual Renewal Center, 1st Floor Fr. Ray, Celebrant, Judith Hughes-Healing Prayer Seven Week Life In The Spirit Seminar St. John Church Chapel, Middletown 1st Session Sunday, April 19, @ 2:00 pm- 4:00 pm All other sessions each Thursday starting April 23rd@ 7:00 pm – 9:00 pm Fr. Ray, Judith Hughes & Team, Moderators Unbound Prayer Ministry April 25, 2015, Spiritual Renewal Center, 11 Bath St. Norwich Call for an appointment (860)887-0702 Fr. Ray, Judith Hughes & Team Mass with He Is Alive Prayer Community St. Mary Church, Putnam, April 13, 7:30 p.m. Fr. Ray & Judith Hughes Italy Pilgrimage Travelers Reunion April 26, 2:00 p.m., Spiritual Renewal Center Philip Retreat Team Meeting & Set up April 27, 6:30 p.m., Spiritual Renewal Center Philips Retreat (A Spiritual Experience) Saturday, May 2, 9:00-4:00 and Sunday, May 3, 9:00-1:30 Spiritual Renewal Center Pre-registration is required, call (860) 887-0702 Free will offering $25.00 Prayer, Praise, Worship and Adoration Every Tuesday evening @ 6:30 pm Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich, CT “Everyone’s welcomed to these programs!

spiritual renewal services Diocese of Norwich

Dial-A-Prayer (860) 887-7767

P.O. Box 6 • 11 Bath Street Norwich, CT 06360 • (860) 887-0702 email: Renewal@catholicweb.com

Four County Catholic April 2015

Priest Jubilarians for 2015 60 Years Reverend Richard L. Archambault Reverend Roger A. Couture, OMI Reverend Daniel C. Cronin

July 2, 1955 September 15, 1955 July 10, 1955

55 Years Reverend Leoncio T. Almendra Reverend Edward M. Konopka Reverend Paul F. Ramen Reverend John E. Welch, MS 50 Years Reverend V. Antony J. Alaharasan Reverend Monsignor James P. Carini Reverend James Hammer, OFM Cap Reverend James L. Maltese

March 26, 1960 June 25, 1960 February 2, 1960 May 28, 1960 December 21, 1965 May 27, 1965 November 13, 1965 February 13, 1965

45 Years Reverend Anthony P. Gruber Very Reverend Laurence A.M. LaPointe Reverend Monsignor Anthony S. Rosaforte

June 6, 1970 June 6, 1970 June 6, 1970

40 Years Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Reverend Mark Curesky, OFM Conv. Reverend Monsignor Michael T. Donohue Reverend Russell F. Kennedy

June 29, 1975 May 3, 1975 June 29, 1975 May 10, 1975

35 Years Reverend Arthur A. Archer Reverend Charles A. McGrail 30 Years Reverend Mark D. O’Donnell 25 Years Reverend Joseph F. DeCosta Reverend Gregory C. Mullaney Very Reverend Michael L Phillippino Reverend Benjamin V. Soosaimanickam

December 6, 1980 December 6, 1980 May 25, 1985 November 17, 1990 May 5, 1990 May 26, 1990 April 29, 1990

Chrism Mass Celebrates Unity of the Church Family Priests of the Diocese Concelebrate with their Bishop Norwich – On Tuesday, March 29, two days before Holy Thursday, priests of the Diocese, deacons From the FCC News Desk

and religious, parishioners from across the Diocese, seminarians, student greeters and Jubilarian honorees joined Bishop Michael R. Cote in celebrating the annual Chrism Mass dedicated to the renewal of the priestly commitment to service and the blessing of the sacred sacramental oils. The three sacred oils blessed were the Oil of Catechumens used in the preparation of the adult and child Catechumens for their Baptism; Oil of the Sick used to bring comfort and support to the sick; and the Holy Chrism used to anoint the newly baptized, to seal the candidates for Confirmation and to anoint the hands of priests at ordination and to anoint the heads of bishops at their ordination. This concelebration of Bishop Cote and his priests signified their unity as co-workers in ministry, manifesting the unity of the priesthood and the sacrifice of Christ. At the same time, the representatives of the Church of Norwich,

who have been consecrated in Bap- cese of Norwich. tism and strengthened by ConfirIn his homily, Bishop Cote mation, are touched on united with Let us rise rejoicing! the essence their Bishop of this unifyOne with Christ, and priests as ing occasion, Holy Week “ W i t h his light to keep, approaches. Christ, joy is Called to Together, all constantly human kindness. are renewed born anew.” in grace, in ~ from Wake the World with Dawning Joy, The Chrism based on the words of Pope Francis mission, and Mass was in in witness to every way a the presence of Christ and the con- reaffirmation of the joy and mercy tinuation of his work in the Dio- of Christ and his Church.

Photo by Tim Cook/The Day

Four County Catholic April 2015

Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra Performs Mozart Concert at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick Norwich – A hush filled the Cathedral of Saint Patrick on Sunday evening as hundreds filled By Kimberly Drelich Reprint from The Day

the pews and waited quietly in anticipation. Beneath the vaulted blue ceiling and soft lights of the cathedral, a performance of Wolfgang Amadeus Mozart’s “Requiem” was about to begin. The Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra, along with the Norwich Diocesan Choir and the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus, was holding the Palm Sunday performance of Requiem in D minor, K. 626, after a year of planning and collaboration. “I’m a firm believer that whenever we touch something of beauty, we touch something of God,” said Bishop Michael Cote at the beginning of the concert. “Thank you for this beauty tonight.” At once powerful and beautiful, the voices and music filled the cathedral, led by conductor Toshiyuki Shimada, the music director of New London’s Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra. Douglas Green, the cathedral’s music director, prepared the Norwich Diocesan Choir, and Mark Singleton prepared the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Chorus. Requiem was begun by Mozart, who died in 1791, and was later completed by a disciple of Mozart, said Shimada. Audience members sat quietly,

smiled or closed their eyes, while others followed along to the Latin words, also translated in English in the concert’s program: “...Sanctus. Sanctus. Sanctus, Dominus Deus Sabaoth! Pleni suni coeli et terra gloria tua. Osanna in excelsis... (Holy, holy, holy, Lord God of Sabaoth, Heaven and earth are full of Thy glory. Hosanna in the highest)....” The idea for the concert first began through the friendship of Bishop Cote and Toshiyuki Shimada, the conductor of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestera. The two got to know each other while Bishop Cote was the Bishop of Portland, Maine, and Shimada was also a conductor there, said Green. Proceeds from the free concert will benefit St. Vincent De Paul’s soup kitchen. “This is such an honor to be able to even speak in such a beautiful cathedral,” said Shimada at the beginning of the concert. The interior of the cathedral had been part of a restoration project that included new marble flooring, frescoes on the ceiling and restored stained glass, said Bob Reed, vice president of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony, Inc. Sunday’s concert was the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra’s entree into Norwich, said Reed. Based at The Garde Arts Center in New London, the orchestra would like to travel all over, he said. An elated crowd applauded and gave a standing ovation at the end

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Toshiyuki Shimada, music director and conductor of the Eastern Connecticut Symphony Orchestra, leads members of the orchestra as they perform with the Norwich Diocesan Choir in the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich, Sunday, March 29, 2015. Photo by Tim Martin/The Day of the concert. Elizabeth Santaus, an Orange resident who attended Sunday’s performance, said the performance was phenomenal and liked that the free concert made it accessible to all and filled the cathedral with attendees.

“The accoustics were spectacular. It was a wonderful venue,” she said after the concert. “It’s a wonderful collaboration with the Norwich Diocesan Choir: the sheer volume of voices was incredible.” “It was just awesome,” said Reed after the show, as attendees

stopped to make donations and compliment the performance. “It was just good to get the symphony here in Norwich and play such a piece on Palm Sunday.” “Everything came together perfectly — it was a year in the making,” he said.

Four County Catholic April 2015

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The Continuing Celebration of Easter This year, we celebrate Easter on the first Sunday of April. Then the celebration continBy Sister Elissa Rinere, CP, JCD Office of Worship

ues for all the Sundays of April and even most of the weekdays. Clearly, just one day is not enough time for the Church to enjoy and celebrate Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; triumph over death, his resurrection, and the promise made to us of everlasting life. The first reading for each of the Sundays of April is taken from the Acts of the Apostles, which documents the courageous preaching of the disciples in those first years after Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; resurrection. On April 12, the Second Sunday of Easter, we will hear the description of the early Christians: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The community was of one heart and one mind, and no one claimed that any of his possessions was his own, but they had everything in common.â&#x20AC;? The second reading for each of the Sundays is taken from the first Letter of John. On April 26, we will hear the very familiar words: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Beloved, we are Godâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s children now; what we shall be has not yet been revealed.â&#x20AC;? What message might these passages hold for each of us today, as we do our best to proclaim the resurrection of Jesus in our actions? The Second Sunday of Easter, April 12, is also Divine Mercy

Sunday. This observance was established for the Church by Saint Pope John Paul II in April 2000, at the canonization of Saint Faustina Kowalska, a Polish nun who died in 1938 at the

age of 33. Saint Faustina wrote accounts of several visions she experienced during her life. In one of these visions, as she recounted, Jesus said: â&#x20AC;&#x153;Humanity will never find peace until it turns with trust to Divine Mercy.â&#x20AC;? Pope John Paul II, quoting this statement in 2001, added that Mercy is the Easter gift the Church receives from God and then offers to humanity. The Gospel for Divine Mercy Sunday is the story of â&#x20AC;&#x153;Doubting Thomasâ&#x20AC;? who, when he missed the post-resurrection visit of Jesus to the apostles, refused to believe what the apostles told him unless he personally touched the wounds of Jesus, and put his hand into Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; side. And Jesus, in his mercy, gave Thomas what he needed to believe. The Fourth Sunday of Easter, April 26, is known, unofficially, as Good Shepherd Sunday. The

Gospel (John10:11-18) is Jesusâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; description of himself as the Good Shepherd who not only willingly lays down his life for his sheep, but also has the power to take his life up again. Therefore, in the Easter Season, we hear again that the death of Jesus is not a defeat, but a sign of his fidelity. â&#x20AC;&#x153;This is why the Father loves me, because I lay down my life in order to take it up again.â&#x20AC;? In taking up his life again, Jesus continues to lead and care for his followers. The Sundays of May continue the celebration of Easter, with readings from the Acts of the Apostles and the First Letter of John, and the Gospel of John. All the readings send a strong message of hope, victory, love and commitment. We will hear some of the most beloved words of the New Testament. Perhaps we will each find a few minutes of quiet to read these passages and pray over them. Easter and the Easter Season are all about the fundamentals of our faith, and we can only be enriched by spending time with the words and images presented to us at Mass. â&#x20AC;&#x153;As the Father has loved me, so I have loved you. Remain in my love.â&#x20AC;? (John 15:9) â&#x20AC;&#x153;Children, let us love not in word or in speech, but in deed and in truth.â&#x20AC;? (1John 3:18) â&#x20AC;&#x153;God is love, and whoever remains in love remains in God and God in him.â&#x20AC;? (1John 4:16)

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Through Love, Serve One Another Volunteerism is alive and well at Catholic Charities. As stated in By Jim Maffuid Executive Director, Catholic Charities, Norwich

Acts 20:35, “In all things I have shown you that by working hard in this way we must help the weak and remember the words of the Lord Jesus, how he himself said, ‘It is more blessed to give than to receive.” Volunteering is a blessing to both giver and receiver. With the help of volunteers and interns, Catholic Charities is able to fulfill our mission, “responding to Christ’s call to care for those in need by providing compassionate social services for individuals and families living in the Diocese of Norwich”. When Roger Thuotte was asked what brought him to Catholic Charities, he shared, “I had loads of time on my hands and I didn’t have much to do”. He went on to say, “Now, I get excited to come and help others!” Bob Bergdoll, expressed he is retired and likes to keep busy. When his wife saw the ad in their church bulletin, they thought it would be a good way to help out. Bob said, ‘I’ve been bringing baby items to Catholic Charities for a long time, as my wife and I are involved in collecting these items at our church. I now tell my wife to not plan things for us on Wednesdays, so I can come and help the clients at Catholic Charities”. Grant Howarth stated, “I was in between jobs and called Sylvia and offered my service. I wanted to keep busy and thought it would be beneficial to the community”. All three gentlemen volunteer in our Emergency Financial Services program in Norwich. They pick up food from Gemma Moran food center, determine clients’ needs and distribute food from our pantry to them. Besides the weekly food pantry services, they also very

much enjoy the special moments such as giving out turkeys at Thanksgiving and gifts at Christmas. We are blessed to have them helping us serve our clients. Rosalinda Bazinet, program manager, also is “grateful we have Richard

Walsh volunteering and helping with our services in our New London office. Last year we also had two interns, Stacey Vialliere and Mellissa Duffy who were outstanding in serving our clients. They all go above and beyond- sometimes even carrying the food outside to the client’s ride”. Our volunteers don’t end with Roger, Bob and Grant. Last year, Lewis Thomas, James Kulp and Sergio Yraita all assisted our housing program by compiling data, scheduling appointments and helping prepare materials for our homebuyer education classes. Sue Williams from Catholic Charities Office of Family Life, expressed, “Jim Leonard from Most Holy Trinity Parish, Pomfret, has been presenting the True Love Waits High School Chastity Program with the Office of Family Life for nineteen years to over a thousand 9th and 10th graders for parishes throughout our Diocese”. Sue also acknowledged, Steve and Lisa Collison from St. John’s Parish, Old Saybrook, who, as our Lead Natural Family Planning Instructors with Couple to Couple League, have been teaching Natural Family Planning classes to engaged and married couples for twenty years.

Rounding out the volunteers helping with Sue’s programs are Craig and Liz Schantz from Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Gales Ferry. They have been Natural Family Planning class instructors with Couple t o

You was written from the viewpoint of the birth mother. The recording, which included vocals from Hadleigh Thompson, Car-

Couple League for the Diocese for six years. Sometimes we think of volunteering resting in the hands of seniors. However, a group of teenagers from the Christian rock band, The Cecilias, recorded a song written and produced by Dot Reiser. A Family for

olyn Ellis, and Julie Sedensky, was placed on Catholic Charities adoption webpage. Susan Sedensky, Adoption Program Coordinator, noted the great help she received from Three Rivers interns Autumn Trahan and Micaela Utz as they assisted the Adoption Program with marketing. Catholic Charities is able to serve an additional 30 clients a week in our behavioral health

clinic due to the assistance of Jennifer Mackin, Laura Moya, Donna Benard and Amy Faenza. They all are seeking their master’s degrees in family therapy or social work. Having clinical interns helps bring fresh perspectives to our services. On behalf of our Board and staff, we are grateful for the tremendous impact these volunteers have had on the lives of our clients and our community. “For you were called to freedom, brothers. Only do not use your freedom as an opportunity for the flesh, but through love serve one another. For the whole law is fulfilled in one word: ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” Galatians 5:13-14

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Annual Catholic Appeal Kicks Off Despite the snow and many cancellations we have all dealt with this winter, we were very fortunate

ACA and emphasized the importance of the 2015 ACA Campaign, titled “Strength through

The Christopher Dinner was attended by Bishop Cote who thanked the Christopher’s for their enduring commitment to the ACA. Mr. Daniel O’Sullivan, Director of Outreach to Haiti,

the Holy Spirit”. The 2015 Ministry Fair on March 1st at the Mystic Marriott was another event that was enjoyed by all. The ACA funds our many Diocesan ministries and allows them to do the wonderful work they do in our community, helping our neighbors to deal with the challenges of daily life. The following week, the Christopher Dinner was held on March 7th also at the Mystic Marriott and was attended by 170 members of the Christopher Society. The society is named after Saint Christopher who is believed to have carried the Christ Child across a raging river to safety. Today, the members of the Christopher Society give generously each year to the ACA and thereby do their part in carrying Christ to those in need.

spoke, emphasizing how ACA support allows the Diocese to help those in need in and around Haiti’s capital city, Port au Prince. With the generous support of ACA donors, Outreach to Haiti provides medical care through an onsite clinic and community outreach through neighborhood health agents and a mobile clinic; school tuitions and other educational support to over 300 students; partial support to 2 orphanages; funding for a meal program for 75 children; clean water through Sunspring Water Purification System; and a mission house open to travelers and others providing human services to Haitians in need. As part of its goal to build relationships between Haitian and American communities, Outreach to Haiti oversees a twinning program in

By Mary Ellen Mahoney Development Manager/Major Gifts

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for April That people may learn to respect creation and care for it as a gift of God.

to be able to hold all of the 2015 Annual Catholic Appeal kick off events, involving close to 750 participants. On February 24th, the ACA Leadership Meeting was held bringing together Pastors and ACA Chairs from each Parish. Bishop Cote thanked the attendees for their commitment to the

Flames of Charity Gala The 2nd Annual “Flames of Charity Gala” is just weeks away! The event is being held By Christine Jackel Catholic Charities Development Coordinator

at the Mystic Marriott in Groton CT on Saturday, April 25th with Kevin Hogan, news anchor of WFSB Channel 3, returning as Master of Ceremonies. The evening begins at 6:00 PM with a cocktail hour, surf/turf dinner and our Silent Auction. The proceeds of this event will allow Catholic Charities to carry out its mission of helping those in need, throughout Eastern Connecticut. This year’s Silent Auction is one you won’t want to miss! People and local businesses have been very generous in donating restaurant gift cards, theater tickets, sports memorabilia, oil and canvas portraits, a foursome of golf and an array of beautiful themed gift baskets. There are some really wonderful items we know will generate a lot of interest, such as a gourmet dinner for 20

with wine pairings, tickets at Mohegan Sun for Earth Wind & Fire and Bette Midler. We have a weekend getaway package at a Cape Cod Resort, and the one sure to be a huge drawing card and create a “bidding war” are four (4) tickets to the May 1st Red Sox vs. Yankees game at Fenway Park! There’s still time to purchase a ticket, a “Flame of Remembrance” candle in memory of a loved one, or sponsor a table of ten (10). Tickets are $125 per person and “Flames of Remembrance” candles are $50 and can be purchased on the Catholic Charities website www.ccsfn.org or through the Diocese of Norwich website www.norwichdiocese.org by clicking on the banner. More information on sponsorships can be found on both websites. If you have any questions, please contact Christine Jackel, Development Coordinator cjackel@norwichdiocese.net or by phone 860-886-1928 x12. We look forward to seeing you at the Gala on Saturday, April 25th.

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which parishes and other groups in the United States formally create a relationship with parishes in the Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince. The following morning, March 8th, an appreciation breakfast at the Crowne Plaza in Cromwell was held. ACA donors from the Middletown area were greeted by Bishop Cote who thanked them for their continued ACA support. All in all, we were very thankful that we were able to hold all of the scheduled events without any weather related cancellations! It was great that more than 750 of our friends and neighbors were able to get out of their homes and enjoy each other’s company while also spreading their enthusiasm for the good work that the ACA and the ministries it supports accomplish every day. Last year’s ACA raised over $3 million dollars to assist our ministries and continue their important, life-changing work. Parishioners received their ACA pledge packets the week of March 1st and the ACA Campaign officially started the weekend of March14/15 when the ACA video was presented in all parishes. For more information on the ACA, please contact the Development Office at 860-886-1928 or www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org.

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Four County Catholic April 2015

Pantry is Full, Thanks to Donors Volunteers Help the Needy Throughout Northeastern Connecticut Putnam - “For I was hungry, and you gave me to eat… “ Those familiar words from the By John D. Ryan, Warden Cargill Council 64, K of C, Putnam

Gospel of Matthew sum up the results of the recent food drive in Putnam, a food drive that filled the nearly empty shelves at Project Northeast , which runs one of the region’s non-profit, non-denominational, private food pantries for the needy. “We’re able to help people now,” said Project Northeast’s Director, Father Richard L. Archambault , of Putnam. “Our shelves are full. We’re very grateful.” Archambault said the Saturday, March 14 effort raised $140 in cash and collected 340 pounds of nonperishable food. A ministry of the Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich , Project Northeast’s office and pantry is located in two small basement rooms at St. Mary Church of the Visitation on Providence Street , but the private, non-profit, social service agency serves needy people throughout northeastern Connecticut, regardless of race, color or religion. They provide non-perishable food and financial help for utilities, but only when they have food and money available from donations. Members of Putnam’s Boy Scout Troop 21 and Knights of Columbus Cargill Council 64 spent Saturday morning, March 14, at the Cargill Council Hall on Providence Street collecting food, personal care items and money for Project Northeast. Meanwhile, another work crew collected food donated to the pantry by generous customers just down the

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street at Putnam Supermarket . “It’s hard; not everybody can afford basic things like food right now,” Archambault said. “We’re trying to help people in our community, but we need help like we got from the generous people on Saturday in order to do it.” “We see lots of people who are out of work or sick,” he added. “Since the recession, we’ve seen many professional people who used to have good jobs but now have lost their houses and are in trouble. I call them ‘the middle class poor.’” The two organizations came together on March 14 in the person of Peter A. Lombardo , of Putnam, who is both Troop 21’s Scoutmaster and one of Council 64’s Past Grand Knights. This food drive is just the most recent event in Archambault’s long life of serving the poor. “I was part of a family of nine kids, growing up in North Grosvenordale,” he said. “We had great parents; they taught us to share

and to care for people who were less fortunate than we were.” That call to help the less fortunate eventually led the 85-year-old lifelong Roman Catholic priest to start Project Northeast in 1978. “I had always been inspired to work for the poor.” Today, he said Project Northeast serves about 150 local families a month, providing temporary help with food, utilities and other basic necessities. “We needed this,” Father Archambault said. “People in our community needed this. It’s a terrible thing to see people, particularly children, going hungry. Thanks to what was done here, they’ll eat tomorrow.” Although the drive is over, Project Northeast still needs help. Checks may be mailed to: Project Northeast, 81 Church St., Putnam, CT 06260. Donations of non-perishable food and money may also be left at the two locations of Joseph’s Jewelers, 153 School Street in Putnam and 158 Main Street in Danielson.

The Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women presents

The Annual Layette Program & Catholic Charities Sunday Sunday, April 19, 2015 at 1:00pm St. Joseph’s Church 18 Main Street, North Grosvenordale, CT Guest will be: Jim Maffuid, Executive Director, Catholic Charities and supervisors of Catholic Charities offices All ladies of the Parishes are invited to attend. Please collect baby items, diapers, clothes (0-3 years), blankets, etc. to donate to the Layette Program for distribution to the Catholic Charities offices in Norwich, New London, Middletown & Willimantic.

Pictured above, left to right, Martha Murphy, grant writer, St. Vincent de Paul Place, Lou Ziegler, President, Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation and Christine Jackel, Development Coordinator, Catholic Charities.

Two Ministries Receive Grants In a March 20th ceremony at the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut FounBy Christine Jackel Catholic Charities Development Coordinator

dation, Foundation President Lou Ziegler presented two of the Diocese of Norwich’s ministries, St. Vincent de Paul Place and Catholic Charities with grants to help them to continue to serve our friends and neighbors in need. On behalf of St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich, Executive Director Jillian Corbin received $5,000 to be used for the purchase of peanut butter and cereal which will be distributed to families with children through its food pantry. Christine Jackel, Development Coordinator for Catholic Charities collected a $1,500 grant for the purchase of diapers and formula for babies of low income families. The generous support of the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation and other community donors helps to ensure that both St. Vincent de Paul Place and Catholic Charities will continue their long tradition of assisting our community members in meeting the challenges of daily life. St. Vincent de Paul Place, located in Nor-

wich, has been serving the homeless and families with limited income for over 35 years providing food, basic needs assistance and advocacy; while Catholic Charities, with locations in Norwich, New London, Willimantic and Middletown, has been in operation since 1921, supporting the vulnerable in our population by providing assistance with food, rent and heat as well as behavioral health counseling and adoption, pregnancy and family education services. This past year, St. Vincent de Paul Place served an average of 246 meals a day and the food pantry provided food to more than 1100 people monthly, while Catholic Charities served 2,431 families in our region, enriching the lives of more than 11,000 people. For more information on how to help either of these valuable Diocesan ministries, please contact Jillian Corbin, Executive Director, St. Vincent de Paul Place at jcsvdpp@gmail.com or Christine Jackel, Development Coordinator, Catholic Charities at cjackel@norwichdiocese.net. A big thanks to the Chamber of Commerce of Eastern Connecticut Foundation for generous grants to these two ministries.

Four County Catholic April 2015

Desperation, Dreams, and Tears: A Visit To Our Southern Border

Seven Connecticut College undergraduates, Father Bob Washabaugh, two Catholic By Sister Mary Jude Lazarus, SCMC Office for Hispanic Ministry

chaplain interns from Yale Divinity School and I spent a week at the Arizona-Mexico border. Some of

the students went to get a better idea of the sacrifices their parents made so that they could have a better life here in the United States. Others wanted to learn directly and personally who crosses the border, their reasons for crossing and how they are treated. I went to be there with so many with whom I am privileged to minister – to “walk a mile in their moccasins”, so to speak, so as to understand with my heart. We visited several Catholic, ecumenical, and civic groups working with migrants on both sides of the border. We heard the stories of those

caught in the cross-fire of the immigration debate on this side of the border, as well as those trapped in desperation on the Mexican side. Rosa Robles Loreto, on this side of the border, is confined to the property of a Presbyterian Church in South Tucson, a sanctuary church since the mid 80’s. Rosa is in deportation proceedings. Her attorney requested sanctuary for her while continuing to plead her case. Thousands of letters have been sent to the secretary of Homeland Security, to request a stay of deportation for this wife and mother of two young children who has been an active and contributing member of both civic and church communities. A minor traffic violation caused Arizona police to stop her and request proof of legal status. As Rosa had only her Mexican driver’s license, they immediately called Homeland Security. She was held for a few months in a detention center. When released, she was placed in sanctuary. If Rosa steps off the property of this church, she is likely to be arrested, handed over to Homeland Security, and immediately deported. She has been confined to one room on the property of this church since August. You can learn more about Rosa’s story and join the campaign – “We Stand with Rosa” - by visiting www.southsidepresbyterian .org/ sanctuary. In Nogales, on the Mexican side

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of the border, we visited the Kino Border Initiative, a Jesuit ministry to migrants. In a make-shift dining room, migrants can get a hot meal and much needed moral and physical support. Some of those who come have just been deported while others are preparing to cross. The Jesuits are not in the business of helping migrants cross the border. Their purpose is to provide humanitarian aide for people in distress – whoever they are. They serve two meals each day, both meals to a different group of 30-40 migrants. We were there for one of the meals. Some of us helped serve while others moved among the migrants, listening to their stories. Women who were abused in the crossing; 16 and 17 year-olds from Guatemala preparing to cross; others, desperate for work and so attempting to cross again, a second or third time. The Missionary Sisters of the Eucharist, a Mexico-based Religious Community, work with the Jesuits. We visited their shelter, a refuge for women just returned to Mexico. Here they are given a place to stay and moral support before moving on. For some, it will be another attempt to cross; for others, a return to where they came from – at least for now. Here we heard Edna’s story. She had recently come to the shelter. She was crossing to be with her 6 year-

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old US citizen child diagnosed with leukemia when she was picked up by immigration agents and deported. Her desire to be with her child is overwhelming. She will again risk her life to cross. In a few days she would try again. This will be her third attempt to make the 45 day trip through the desert, known as “the Devil’s Highway.” Here, temperatures exceed 100 degrees by day and drop below zero at night. Edna said when she did sleep, she slept fitfully, always listening for the rustling of poisonous snakes. Migrants are told to carry garlic so as to keep the snakes away. As I flew home, I thought of her. Would she make it this time? Would she fall into the hands of the bandits and drug lords who exploit women? Would she be attacked by the snakes or other animals that inhabit the desert? Or would she be captured by the Border Patrol and returned again. I asked her to call me when she reached her destination. On the last day of the trip we experienced for ourselves the challenges of travel on “The Devil’s Highway.” After only a couple hours walking we had enough. Migrants walk it for days. Our guide was one of the Samaritans, an interfaith volunteer group established in 2002 to be “a healing presence in the desert.” They do not assist people to cross the border; their purpose is to save lives and relieve suffering by providing humanitarian aid to those in distress. He told us that he recently found human remains on this trail, the skeleton almost entirely intact – not the first time. He wanted to return to mark the spot where this child of God had died. With duct tape and two small branches, the students made a cross and planted it in the ground. Our guide draped a rosary over the cross, and placed next to it a picture of Our Lady of Guadalupe, an unlit candle, and a bottle of water. The custom is to leave water for the dead in the desert. Father Bob then led us in prayer for the repose of the soul of this child of God who died a hor-

Four County Catholic April 2015

rific death, alone, unknown to all but to God. A little further down the trail we came upon a pair of pants, already beginning to disintegrate. A Mexican ID was still in the pocket. Our guide will turn it over to the Mexican Consulate who will try to locate the family. Another victim of the desert. Along the trail we saw backpacks, sneakers, baseball caps, articles of clothing – some left there long ago, others more recent belongings of those who had passed that way or who had died there. Samaritans go out daily to look for migrants in distress and to leave food, water, and blankets along the trail. We spent an afternoon in court, witnessing “Operation Streamline” in action. This is an initiative of the Department of Homeland Security and the Department of Justice which began in 2005. Its purpose is to establish “zero-tolerance” along the US-Mexico border. Annually, its estimated total cost is more than $170 million. Every Monday, some 80 migrants – are sentenced in this Tucson court. Some for first-time entry, others for re-entry. They are hand-cuffed and shackled. Men, women, and baby-faced boys. Mexicans and Central Americans. Their sentence is anywhere from 30-180 days in a US prison before being deported, and with a criminal record. We witnessed the sentencing of 79 migrants in 40 minutes – all who had a desperate need to provide food for themselves and their families. The judge later met with us. After a very heated 90-minute conversation, he ended the discussion by quoting Oliver Wendall Holmes who said that the law does not deliver justice. It is a policy that we agree upon. Justice requires sacrifice and pain. He urged us to take up the hard work of justice that requires changing the law. Immigration that is termed “illegal” is, without a doubt, a contro-

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versial issue. It is historical, political, and economic. As we met migrants, heard their stories, and saw their willingness to risk their lives, we realized that it is also deeply human. It is the story of desperate people seeking a better life for themselves and their children – people so desperate that they are willing to risk their lives in an unforgiving and unrelenting desert. With the support and leadership of the United States Catholic Bishops, the Catholic community stands together in opposition to “enforcement only” immigration policies. For the sake of the common good and the dignity and safety of human life, we passionately support com-

prehensive immigration reform which includes increasing lawful means for migrants to enter, live, and work in the United States. This would enable law enforcement to focus on those who truly threaten public safety: drug and human traffickers, smugglers, and would‐be terrorists. Our Church teaches that people have a right to a decent living in their own country, but when that is not possible, they also have a right to seek that living somewhere else, even when it means crossing borders. Together we make up the Body of Christ therefore we cannot ignore or forget the brother or sister traveling “The Devil’s Highway”

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Four County Catholic April 2015

DesesperaciĂłn, SueĂąos, y LĂĄgrimas: Una Visita al Sur de la Frontera Siete estudiantes universitarios de Connecticut College, el Padre Bob Washabaugh, dos capellanes Escrito por Hermana Mary Jude Lazarus, SCMC, Oficina del Ministerio Hispano

catĂłlicos internos de Yale Divinity School y yo pasamos una semana en la frontera entre Arizona y MĂŠxico. Algunos de los estudiantes fueron para tener una mejor idea de los sacrificios que hicieron sus padres para que ellos puedan tener una mejor vida aquĂ en los Estados Unidos. Otros querĂan aprender directamente y personalmente quienes cruzan la frontera, sus razones para cruzar y cĂłmo son tratados. Fui allĂ a estar con tantos de los cuales tengo el privilegio de servir-â&#x20AC;&#x153;caminar una milla en sus zapatosâ&#x20AC;?, por asĂ decirlo, a fin de comprender con mi corazĂłn. Visitamos varios grupos catĂłli-

cos, ecumĂŠnicos, y civiles que trabajan con migrantes en ambos lados de la frontera. Escuchamos las historias de aquellos atrapados en el fuego del debate migratorio en este lado de la frontera, asĂ como aquellos atrapados en la desesperaciĂłn en el lado mexicano. En este lado de la frontera, Rosa Robles Loreto, es restringida a la propiedad de una iglesia Presbiteriana una iglesia asilo desde mediados de los 80 en el sur de Tucson. Rosa estĂĄ en proceso de deportaciĂłn. Su abogado solicitĂł asilo para ella mientras continĂşa defendiendo su caso. Han sido enviadas miles de cartas al secretario de Seguridad Nacional, para solicitar la suspensiĂłn de la deportaciĂłn para esta esposa y madre de dos niĂąos de corta edad quien ha sido un miembro activo y contribuyente de ambas comunidades

cĂvicas y eclesiĂĄsticas. Una violaciĂłn de trĂĄnsito sin importancia causĂł que la policĂa de Arizona la detuviera y le exigiera pruebas de su estatus legal. Como Rosa sĂłlo tenĂa su licencia de conducir mexicana, ellos inmediatamente llamaron a Seguridad Nacional. Ella fue retenida en un centro de detenciĂłn durante unos meses. Cuando fue liberada, fue colocada en asilo. Si Rosa sale de la propiedad de esta iglesia, es probable que sea detenida, entregada a Seguridad Nacional, e inmediatamente deportada. Desde agosto ella ha sido limitada a un cuarto en la propiedad de esta iglesia. Usted puede aprender mĂĄs sobre esta historia de Rosa y unirse a la campaĂąa. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Estamos con Rosaâ&#x20AC;?-al visitar www.southsideprebyterian.org/san ctuary. En Nogales, visitamos la Inicia-

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tiva de la Frontera Kino, un ministerio Jesuita para los migrantes en el lado mexicano de la frontera. En un comedor improvisado, los migrantes pueden conseguir una comida caliente y mucho apoyo necesario fĂsico y moral. Algunos de aquellos que vienen acaban de ser deportados, mientras que otros se estĂĄn preparando para cruzar. Los Jesuitas no estĂĄn en el asunto de ayudar a los migrantes a cruzar la frontera. Su propĂłsito es proporcionar ayuda humanitaria a personas en peligro-sean quienes sean. Sirven dos comidas cada dĂa, ambas comidas a un grupo diferente de 30-40 migrantes. Estuvimos allĂ para una de las comidas. Algunos de nosotros ayudĂł a servir, mientras que otros se movĂan entre los migrantes, escuchando sus historias: mujeres quienes fueron abusadas en el cruce; 16 y 17 aĂąos de edad de Guatemala preparĂĄndose para cruzar; otros desesperados por trabajo intentando cruzar de nuevo, una segunda o tercera vez. Las Hermanas Misioneras de la EucaristĂa, una comunidad religiosa con sede en MĂŠxico, trabajan con los Jesuitas. Visitamos su refugio, un refugio para mujeres que acaban de regresar a MĂŠxico. AquĂ se les da un lugar para quedarse y apoyo moral antes de continuar. Para algunos, serĂĄ otro intento de

cruzar; para otros-al menos por ahora, un regreso de donde vinieron. AquĂ escuchamos la historia de Edna. Ella ha llegado al refugio recientemente. Cruzaba para estar con su hijo ciudadano estadounidense de 6 aĂąos de edad diagnosticado con leucemia cuando fue recogida por agentes de inmigraciĂłn y deportada. Su deseo de estar con su hijo es abrumador. VolverĂĄ a arriesgar su vida para cruzar. En pocos dĂas volverĂĄ a intentarlo. Este serĂĄ su tercer intento por hacer el viaje de 4-5 dĂas por el desierto, conocido comoâ&#x20AC;? La carretera del diablo.â&#x20AC;? AquĂ, las temperaturas superan los 100 grados durante el dĂa y en la noche caen por debajo de cero. Edna dijo que cuando durmiĂł, durmiĂł a ratos, siempre escuchando el susurro de las serpientes venenosas. Se dice que los migrantes llevan ajo con el fin de mantener a distancia a las serpientes. Mientras volaba a casa, pensĂŠ en ella. ÂżLo harĂĄ esta vez? ÂżCaerĂĄ en manos de bandidos y narcotraficantes que violan y explotan a mujeres? ÂżSerĂĄ atacada por las serpientes u otros animales que habitan en el desierto? O serĂĄ capturada por la Patrulla Fronteriza y regresarĂĄ de nuevo. Le pedĂ que me llame cuando llegue a su destino. En el Ăşltimo dĂa de la excursiĂłn

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Four County Catholic April 2015

experimentamos por nosotros mismos los retos del viaje en “La carretera del diablo.” Después de sólo un par de horas de caminata teníamos suficiente. Los migrantes caminan durante días. Nuestro guía era uno de los samaritanos, de un grupo voluntario interreligioso establecido en el 2002 para ser “una presencia sanadora en el desierto.” Ellos no ayudan a las personas a cruzar la frontera; su propósito es salvar vidas y aliviar el sufrimiento mediante la prestación de ayuda humanitaria a aquellos en peligro. Él nos dijo que recientemente encontró restos humanos en este sendero-no la primera vez, el esqueleto casi enteramente intacto. Él quería volver a marcar el lugar donde este hijo de Dios había muerto. Los estudiantes hicieron una cruz con cinta adhesiva y dos pequeñas ramas y la plantaron en el suelo. Nuestro guía cubrió un rosario sobre la cruz, y al lado colocó una imagen de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe, una vela apagada, y una botella de agua. La costumbre en el desierto es dejar agua por los muertos. Luego el Padre Bob nos dirigió en la oración por el eterno descanso del alma de este hijo de Dios quien murió una muerte horrible, solo, desconocido para todos, excepto para Dios. Un poco más abajo del camino nos encontramos con un par de pantalones, ya comenzando a desintegrarse. En el bolsillo todavía estaba una identificación Mexicana. Nuestro guía la entregará al Consulado Mexicano quien intentará localizar a la familia. Otra víctima del desierto. A lo largo del sendero vimos mochilas, zapatillas, gorras, artículos de ropa-algunos dejados allí hace mucho tiempo, otros más recientes-pertenencias de aquellos quienes han pasado por allí o quienes allí han muerto. Los samaritanos salen todos los días a buscar migrantes desamparados y dejan a lo largo del camino comida, agua y frazadas. Pasamos una tarde en la corte, siendo testigos de la “Operación Streamline” (por sus siglas en inglés) en acción. Esta es una iniciativa del Departamento de Seguridad Nacional y del Departamento de Justicia que se inició en el 2005. Su objetivo es establecer “cero tolerancia” a lo largo de la frontera entre Estados Unidos y México. Anualmente su costo total estimado es de más de $ 170 mil-

lones. Cada lunes en esta corte de Tucson son condenados unos 80 migrantes-“criminales”- Algunos por entrar por primera vez, otros por reingresar. Son encadenados y esposados. Hombres, mujeres y chicos con cara de niños. Mexicanos y Centroamericanos. Su condena antes de ser deportados es entre 30 a 180 días en prisión en Estados Unidos y con antecedentes penales. Fuimos testigos en 40 minutos de la condena de 79 migrantes- todos los que tienen una desesperada necesidad de proporcionar alimentos para ellos y sus familias. Más tarde el juez se reunió con nosotros. Después de una acalorada conversación de 90 minutos, terminó la discusión citando a Oliver Wendall Holmes, quien dijo que la ley no entrega justicia. Es una política en la que estamos de acuerdo. La justicia requiere sacrificio y dolor. Nos instó a asumir la ardua labor de la justicia que requiere el cambio de la ley. La inmigración que se denomina “ilegal” es, sin duda, un tema controversial. Es histórico, político y económico. A medida que conocimos migrantes, escuchamos sus historias, y vimos su voluntad de arriesgar sus vidas nos dimos cuenta de que también es profundamente humano. Es la historia de

gente desesperada en busca de una vida mejor para ellos y para sus hijosgente tan desesperada que está dispuesta a arriesgar sus vidas en un despiadado desierto. Con el apoyo y el liderazgo de los Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos, la comunidad católica está unida en oposición a “sólo la aplicación’ de políticas de inmigración. En favor del bien común y de la dignidad y de la seguridad de la vida humana apoyamos fervorosamente una reforma migratoria integral que incluya el aumento de medios legales para ingresar, vivir y trabajar en los Estados Unidos. Esto permitiría a la policía centrarse en aquellos que verdaderamente amenazan la seguridad pública: traficantes de drogas y de personas, contrabandistas, y aspirantes a terroristas.

Nuestra Iglesia enseña que las personas tienen derecho a una vida digna en su propio país, pero cuando esto no es posible, ellos también tienen derecho a buscar esa vida en otro lugar, incluso cuando significa cruzar las fronteras. Juntos formamos el Cuerpo de Cristo, por lo tanto no podemos ignorar ni olvidar el hermano o la hermana que viaja hoy “La carretera del diablo” para llegar hasta aquí, así como los viven entre nosotros y que recorrieron ese camino. Cada muerte en el de-

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sierto nos deja disminuidos y Dios nos llama a responder. Quizás una buena manera para todos nosotros es empezar a mirar profundamente en nuestros corazones y derribar esos muros que nos separan del hermano o hermana que es diferente, en cualquier forma, o en necesidad. Nuestra fe nos desafía continuamente a cruzar fronteras, todo tipo de fronteras mientras nos preparamos para cruzar la gran y última frontera que nos llevará a nuestro hogar eterno.

Four County Catholic April 2015

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The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, left, and Monsignor Robert Brown, Chancellor, read scripture for one of the stations of the Way of the Cross Good Friday at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick in Norwich. Photo by John Shishmanian/The Bulletin

Norwich’s Way of the Cross Moves Indoors to Saint Patrick Norwich - Despite being forced to hold their Way of the Cross service indoors for the first By Adam Benson Reprint from The Bulletin

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time in nearly 20 years, rain couldn’t stop Norwich’s faithful from carrying out the solemn Good Friday ceremony. “It’s so beautiful. It’s great. It brings tears to my eyes,” Norwich resident Susan Bogan said inside the Cathedral of Saint Patrick on Broadway, where officials relocated the annual observance depicting Christ on the day of his crucifixion at a series of 14 stations. Clergy from across the Roman Catholic Diocese of Norwich joined their brethren from other denominations in the rite. “We know the tragedy of Jesus’s death ends in triumph. This is not a day of mourning. This is a day of thanksgiving,” the Most Rev. Michael R. Cote,

Bishop of Norwich, said. “Through our reflection, we are strengthened and encouraged to carry our own crosses.” In addition to diocesan leaders, clergy from the First Congregational Church in Griswold and Newent Congregational Church in Lisbon assembled with representatives from Norwich’s Greeneville Congregational, Park Congregational and St. Nicholas Orthodox churches. The Rev. Monsignor Robert L. Brown said Friday’s weather convinced organizers to shift their worship inside for the first time since 1997. But after recently undergoing a multimillion dollar restoration project, Monsignor Brown and others said nothing was lost in the experience of recreating Christ’s final day. Bogan, who has been attending church daily since last Sunday and will be confirmed today, said witnessing the cross cere-

mony reminds her of the fealty she has for God. “Jesus suffered on the cross for our sins,” she said. A short distance away, St Patrick’s parishioner Linda Weiss, of Norwich, sat quietly by herself with a rosary given to her after her mother’s death. A lung cancer survivor, Weiss said making the walk from one station to another is impossible for her. She enjoyed having the ceremony take place in more intimate quarters that allowed her to more fully participate. “I think it’s a beautiful way to show you love Jesus, and to show respect for what he did for all of us,” Weiss said. “It’s a very reverent thing, because it’s the death of Christ and our salvation.” Bishop Cote said Norwich was joining others around the world on Friday in prayer. “Make us one in the fullness of faith, and keep us one in the fullness of love,” he said.

Four County Catholic April 2015

Sister Mary Roy, DHS July 2, 1928 - March 30, 2015

Putnam - Sr. Mary Roy, 87, a member of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit, died on Monday, March 30, 2015 at the Holy Spirit Health Care Center where she had been in residence since August, 2010. Born Mary Roy on July 2, 1928 in Pittsfield, MA, she was the daughter of Roger and Amelia (Mercure) Roy. She entered religious life at Holy Spirit Provincial House in Putnam in 1944 and made her religious profession there on August 16, 1948. She was then known as Sr. Mary Roger. After her profession she was assigned to teach on the elementary level from 1948 to 1966 in Putnam, Gadsden, AL, Waterbury, West Warren, Pittsfield, MA and in West Haven. She obtained a B.A. in Education in 1966 and taught middle school in Plainville, CT in 1967 and in 1969 she was assigned to teach at Cathedral High in Bridgeport, CT. Meanwhile she obtained an M.S. in Library Science and in 1972 she worked part time at Annhurst College in the library. In 1980 she worked as librarian at Marianhill High School in Southbridge, MA. She retired to the Provincial House in Putnam in March of 2010 and to Holy Spirit Health Care Center in 2010. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the DHS Retirement Fund, Holy Spirit Provincial House, 72 Church St., Putnam, CT, 06260. For memorial guestbook visit www.GilmanAndValade.com. ST. MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY

Diocese of Norwich Responds to Settlement of Father Thomas Shea Case March 22, 2015 - A former priest of the Diocese of Norwich, who died at age 85 in 2006, had From the FCC News Desk

been accused of sexual molestation dating back to the 1960’s in a lawsuit brought by an unidentified Massachusetts woman. As was widely reported in the Connecticut press the week of March 21, 2015, the Diocese and its insurer reached a settlement of 1.1 million. Not as widely reported was the Diocese response to these reports. Diocesan spokesperson Michael Strammiello: “We hope that the recent settlement reached in the case of the late Father Thomas Shea brings some healing and closure to those who may have been affected by his misconduct so many years ago. Sexual abuse, such as that alleged in this case, was and is inexcusable

in all times and circumstances, and is especially heinous when it occurs at the hands of a person in a position of trust. Since 2002, the Diocese of Norwich, in compliance with the zero tolerance policies of the Bishops of the United States, has worked tirelessly to establish, monitor and enforce practices to ensure the protection of minors and vulnerable adults. These poli-

cies of employment screening, background checks, training of all Church personnel, third-party monitoring of compliance, establishment of a review board, published phone numbers in print, in Churches, schools, and online to report even a concern for endangerment has made the Church and its good works ministries second to none with regard to child safety.”

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Four County Catholic April 2015

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Defending Religious Liberty The Catholic Church has always been a provider and advocate for accessible, affordable and life-affirming health care. Had the federal government made accommodations to protect religious freedom for all Americans, dozens of lawsuits filed around the country challenging it could have been avoided. If you haven’t done so already, please voice your opposition to the federal health care mandate by calling U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell at 202-205-5445. Let her know that the mandate is in violation of our First Amendment right to religious freedom.

Michael Culhane, executive director of the Catholic conference, drops off a box of signatures in opposition to end of life legislation. Photo by Christine Stuart/The Hartford Courant

Catholic Leaders Deliver Petitions Opposing Aid-In-Dying Legislation The Catholic church in Connecticut is ramping up its By Daniela Altimari Reprint from the Hartford Courant

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Four County Catholic April 2015

Movie Review: Alejandro Monteverde’s “Little Boy” Last night in Dallas, our friends David and Lisa Fischers invited us to experience a prescreening of By Dr. Taylor Marshall

the film Little Boy. It was a great time and after chewing on it some, I’d like to share some reflections on the film. In 2006 I was able to have lunch with Eduardo Verástegui in Washington DC to learn more about his involvement with a movie called Bella. It was directed by Alejandro Monteverde and produced by Metanoia films. You cannot help but like Eduardo, and the team around Bella back in 2006 had a lot of buzz and fun. There was a recognized need to make beautiful Catholic films that didn’t scream: “This is a preachy Catholic movie!” I was a

new Catholic so it was great to watch Bella go from an indie film to a movement. So with that background, it’s worth noting that this film Little Boy is their second run at independent film success. In the first few minutes of Little Boy, I was thinking: “Okay. This is going to be like that film Life is Beautiful: a World War II context featuring a playful dad and a boy who follows the father around like a puppy.” Like Life is Beautiful, Monteverde’s Little Boy is a feel-good movie that requires a kleenex (okay, I admit to tearing up in this film). It also touched a nerve with racism. The horrors of war

PRINCIPAL VACANCY: St Mary-St Joseph PreK-8 School Willimantic, Connecticut The successful candidate will be a practicing Catholic with an understanding of and a commitment to the mission of Catholic education. In addition to a record of successful teaching, a master’s degree and Connecticut State Certification, bi-lingual (English/Spanish) fluency is preferred, as is demonstrated knowledge of curriculum and the qualities of potential leadership at the elementary level. The principal will possess the ability to work effectively with teachers, parents and pastors, along with an understanding of the complexities of interactions which need to take place between the school and the Diocesan School Office. The candidate should possess superior written and oral communication skills. The full position posting can be found on the diocesan website: www.norwichdiocese.org To apply, send a cover letter, current resume, three references and certification information to:

superintendentdso@norwichdiocese.net ~ or ~ Edward J. Shine, Ed.D. Superintendent of Schools Diocesan School Office 43 Perkins Avenue Norwich, Ct 06360 Screening begins April 15, 2015. Resumes accepted until the position is filled.

and racism are revisited for the audience through the eyes of the [little] boy. The key difference is that Little Boy incorporates the biblical concept of the Acts of Corporal Mercy and brings the idea of faith to the plot. Don’t worry, though. Little Boy avoids being preachy. It does not come off as a Christian movie for Christian consumption. Instead, it shows how right action speaks louder than right words; and we see this in the transformation of the characters. I don’t want to spoil the end, but I was deeply moved and pleasantly surprised. As an author, I’m always interested in plot development and story-

telling. Let me just say that the story telling is fantastic in the last 30 minutes of the film. Monteverde skillfully poured in his efforts into the final portion of the film. I wish I could explain how and why, but I don’t want to ruin the end for you. Just trust me on it. There are scenes that could trouble a child under ten years old. However, I can see teens coming to appreciate acts of mercy after seeing this film. It’s a reminder and a challenge to the viewer: “Does faith change things? And how do you know that you have it?” I recommend this movie. Go see it. Go support it. Godspeed, Taylor

The Catholic Advantage: Why Health, Happiness, and Heaven Await the Faithful Sometimes a book passes in front of me that approaches a topic that I would not actively search out to read By Pete Socks, CBB Review

about. The Catholic Advantage: Why Health, Happiness, and Heaven Await the Faithful is one of those books. As is usually the case by the end of the book I am glad I gave it a chance. Author Bill Donohue gives a compelling argument on how one’s view on religion and their religious practices can impact their health and overall outlook on life. He bases his theory around what he calls the Three B’s of Catholicism: beliefs, bonds and boundaries which turn lead to achieving the Three H’s: health, happiness and heaven. Using the results from new research he backs these theories up and takes this beyond more than simply his own opinion. The book lays out a compelling case that a belief in a higher being results in a positive outlook on life and a positive impact on one’s health. Deeper still, the teachings of

the Catholic faith in particular outline a path towards heaven that the faithful know is true. Bill shows this in striking detail in the second and third parts of the book in particular. He shows the Catholic Vision for happiness and heaven vs. the secular vision rampant in our world today. The Catholic Vision or way is built upon faith in God whereas the secular vision builds their case on a materialistic world. The secular vision, as described in scripture, is no different than a house built upon sand that eventually comes crashing down. Each year I am in awe of how the

tiny seeds I started with in the spring produce a bounty of ripe, delicious tomatoes. The pepper plants are loaded with peppers. Green beans abound, radishes spring forth, cucumbers pop out from under leaves, onions stand at attention and summer squash vines climb the trellis. All of this would be impossible without the Creator of the universe. My faith teaches me this. The truths taught by Catholicism ground me in my faith and show me that this is true. My annual garden is a miracle. The tiniest seeds become food for my family. For that I thank the God of the universe who feeds the tiniest sparrow, and helps assure my positive attitude on life.

Four County Catholic April 2015

K of C Named as a World’s Most Ethical Company The Ethisphere Institute recognizes the Knights of Columbus’ commitment to ethical leadership for the second year in a row The Knights of Columbus has been recognized by the Ethisphere Institute, the global leader in defining and advancing the standards of ethical business practices, as a 2015 World’s Most Ethical Company®. The World’s Most Ethical Companies designation recognizes those organizations that have had a material impact on the way business is conducted by fostering a culture of ethics and transparency at every level of the company. Being a two consecutive year honoree underscores the Knights of Columbus’ commitment to leading ethical business standards and practices ensuring long-term value to key stakeholders including customers, employees, suppliers, regulators

and investors. The Knights of Columbus is one of only four companies in the Life Insurance category honored this year. “For more than 130 years, the Knights of Columbus has been protecting the financial future of Catholic families and providing charity to those on the margins of society,” said Supreme Knight Carl Anderson. “That founding principle of helping those in need is at work in every aspect of our business, guiding our corporate governance, our professional agency force, our investments, and our day-to-day business operations. It is this continued commitment to our foundational, Catholic principles that is the key to our ethical, sustainable and successful business model.”

May the risen Christ fill your heart with joy, bring you new hope, and bless you with peace. Amen

Happy Easter!

Saturday May 16, 2015 • 9:00am-3:00pm Special Guest Speaker: Mother Dolores Hart Saint Mary of Czestochowa 79 South Main St, Middletown, Connecticut Mother Dolores Hart, O.S.B., is a Benedictine nun at the Abbey of Regina Laudis in Bethlehem Connecticut. During her seven-year career in film and on Broadway she starred in ten films, most notably opposite Elvis Presley. Her radical choice to enter a cloistered Abbey at the height of her career in 1963 shocked and then inspired those who admired her. Mother Dolores founded The Gary-The Olivia Theater at the Abbey in 1982. Since 2001 she has been a voting member of the Academy of Motion Picture Arts and Sciences. She is the recipient of two Honorary Doctorates: in Jurisprudence from Fairfield University and in Fine Arts from Loyola Marymount University. The HBO Documentary Film God is the Bigger Elvis about Mother Dolores’ life was nominated for a 2012 Academy Award. Her acclaimed autobiography “The Ear of the Heart: An Actress' Journey from Hollywood to Holy Vows is now in its third printing. Since 1970 Mother Dolores has been the Dean of Education at Regina Laudis, enabling contemporary professional women to awaken to the classical precepts of monastic life. The Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women is the local affiliate of the National Council of Catholic Women. It is comprised of seven Districts: Norwich, New London, Putnam, Rockville, Old Saybrook, and Willimantic. Its mission is to respond with Gospel values to the needs of the Church and Society in the Modern World. Registration Deadline is May 9, 2015. -----------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------------Name ______________________________________________________________________________________________ Address______________________________________________________________________________________________ Church ________________________________________________ City ________________________________________ Email __________________________________________________ Phone ______________________________________ Registration fee ($25) Includes lunch & materials Booklet Sponsor: Individual $2, Affiliate $5, District $10

Make checks payable to: MDCCW Mail to: Nancy Russo 145 Bartholomew Road Middletown, CT 06457

Phone: (860) 344-1492 Email: MiddletownDCCW@gmail.com

Four County Catholic April 2015

CT Walks For Haiti’s 6th Annual Walkathon & Festival The sixth annual CT Walks For Haiti will be held on Saturday, By Daniel O’Sullivan Director of Administration & Programs, Outreach to Haiti

April 25, 2015, with a send-off at St. Peter Claver parish center, 47

Pleasant St., West Hartford CT. Registration, music, Haitianmade crafts, food, and a silent auction will start at 10:30 a.m. The walk will start at 12 noon. The 2.5 mile walkathon through West Hartford Center

IMMACULATA RETREAT HOUSE A Ministry of the Missionary Oblates of Mary Immaculate 289 Windham Road, Rte. 32 Willimantic, Connecticut

SENIOR RENEWAL DAY: Father Roger Couture, OMI, invites all seniors to join him for this month’s program entitled “The Parable of the Prodigal Son” on Wednesday, April 15, from 9:00 AM to 1:00 PM. Offering is $10.00 and includes lunch.

ANNUAL FRENCH RETREAT: Our Annual French (Bi-Lingual) Retreat will take place from April 17-19, 2015. This retreat has been held for the last 53 years, and is one of the highlights of our year. Come and sing the French-Canadian songs of your youth. The Retreat fee is $200.00 per person or $360 per couple.

GARDENERS’ RETREAT DAY: “Prayerful Cultivation” is the theme of this retreat day to be held on Tuesday, April 28. All those interested in gardening/farming and similar endeavors are invited to participate. Father Ron Meyer, OMI will lead this day. The fee for the day is $25.00.

To register or for more information: Phone: 860-423-8484 E-mail: info@immaculataretreat.org

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

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

and Blue Back Square will benefit five charities including Outreach To Haiti, that provide nutritional, educational and medical services in collaboration with Haitian workers. Check out the website www.ctwalksforhaiti.org to learn

more about these charities. AND our amazing Boston Red Sox raffle prize is back! It includes watching from the warning track, as the Red Sox take Batting Practice. And the opportunity to watch 2 innings from the WEEI

Radio Announcer’s booth! You won’t want to miss your chance to win!! Come and bid on this, and many other AWESOME items the morning of the walk! Thank you Bill Maune, St. Pius X Church Middletown.

Four County Catholic April 2015

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich 860-889-4174 www.St-patrickschoolnorwich.org

Academic Excellence. Character. Self-confidence.

Sacred Heart School, Taftville 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org Sacred Heart School, Groton 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org St. Edward School, Stafford Springs 860-684-2600 www.stedward-stafford.org St. James School, Danielson 860-774-3281 www.stjamesdanielson.com St. John Paul II Regional School, Middletown 860-347-2978 www.jpii.org St. John School, Old Saybrook 860-388-0849 www.saintjohnschoolos.com St. Joseph School, Baltic 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.com St. Joseph School, New London 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org St. Michael School, Pawcatuck 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com St. Matthew Pre-School, Tolland 860-872-0200 www.stmatthewct.org St. Bernard Pre-School, Rockville 860-875-0753 x113 www.saintbernardchurch.org

Education for Life

Academy of the Holy Family Gala Celebration Spring is a time for celebrating the good things in life: weddings, proms, graduations and First Communions. At By Brian Daly Director of Admissions, Academy of the Holy Family

the Academy of the Holy Family, a boarding and day school in Baltic for young women in grades 9 through 12, we have chosen to celebrate the combined gift of Catholic Education and the Feminine Genius on May 31, with our Second Annual Gala Dinner at the

school. Sponsored by the Msgr. J.J. Synott Council # 2336 of the Knights of Columbus, Baltic, the Gala begins at 4 p.m. with wine and hors dâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;oeuvres, and includes tours of the school and a fine arts show, followed by dinner at 5:00 p.m. Tickets are $100 per person and reservations may be made by calling the school at 860.822.9272. The Academy opened its doors on October 7, 1874 and has been staffed from the beginning by the Sisters of

Charity who share the Motherhouse campus with the Academy. A team of dedicated and committed lay men and women join the Sisters in providing a challenging education to young women from many parts of the United States and throughout the world. The Academy has seen many developments in its 141 years, including the acceptance of young girls of elementary school age as boarders during the First World War, large numbers of high school students from Africa in the

To learn more, contact the Diocesan School Office, 860-887-4086, www.norwichdso.org or contact one of the diocesan schools.

Four County Catholic April 2015

1980’s, post graduate Mexican informed that she has been students in the ‘90’s,and, cur- granted a full four-year scholarrently, the Virtual High School ship to Harvard in the Fall! The (VHS) program that augments success of the Academy of the the curriculum. Graduates from Holy Family is derived from the the Academy have joined the emphasis on the unique gifts ranks of devoted mothers, the women pour out on the world, consecrated life, active members the feminine genius that Pope of their diocesan and John Paul II wrote of so brilliantly. parish/church groups, physicians, The Gala benefits the programs educators, of the Acadpoliticians, inemy of the Be who God ternational Holy Family, t r a n s l a t o r s , meant you to be, and will ineducational clude a silent and you will and healthcare auction. We administraset the world invite both tors, authors, those who on fire. social workers, have come to psychologists, love the Acad~ Saint Catherine of Siena counselors, emy and those civil servants and military mem- who are unfamiliar with the bers over its long history school to attend the Gala and supThe development of a deep ap- port this unique environment preciation for cultural diversity where young women believe the has benefitted our students, and words of St. Catherine of Siena: the American students have devel- “Be who God meant you to be, oped lasting friendships with and you will set the world on fire.” women from all over the world. For more information or to Our entire student body is rejoic- make reservations please call Sister ing with Ashley Kim, one of our Stella Maria at 860.822.9272 or Korean students, who was recently 860.822.8241.

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

A Magnet School for Values

Ready for College, Ready for Life The Academy of the Holy Family is a Catholic day and boarding high school for American and International young women. Through a challenging curriculum built on a supportive spiritual foundation, our students are ready for college, ready for life. Become Family... 860-822-6279 • www.ahfbaltic.org 54 WEST MAIN STREET, BALTIC,CT Please contact us to come and see...

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There’s more to Saint Bernard School! A Premier College Prep School academically demanding committed to community dedicated to character and moral development Xaverian Brothers Sponsored

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Four County Catholic April 2015

From the Attic to the Inbox, the American Accumulation Problem Carly Poppalardo had blisters on her feet when she drove home from an eight-hour sesBy Christina Capecchi Four County Catholic Contributor

sion of professional organizing last Thursday, threw a bag of Trader Joe’s precut veggies and simmer sauce on the stove, flipped on the TV and sank into the couch. “I was high on adrenaline,” Carly said, “but I was so tired I could barely move.” When she had arrived at the client’s three-story house at 9

o’clock that morning, the situation hadn’t looked particularly dire. But she and the mother of three, a Southern woman, managed to fill two truck beds and an SUV with clothing, furniture and enough toys to stock a preschool room. In an age of excess, there is the

strange reality that Americans pay to store the things we cannot fit in our homes, driving demand for more than 78 square miles of rentable self-storage – more than

An Education You Can Believe In.

three times the size of Manhattan. The burden of sorting the stuff under our roofs increasingly has become the work of a professional, an outsourcing of the most personal nature with a humbling implication: Help me manage my life. Until the expert arrives, the truth is we often don’t even know what we h a v e . Carly once uncovered 27 spatulas in one home and, in another, seven jars of saffron. “Clients tell me I’m kind of like a therapist,” Carly said. “As we’re getting rid of stuff, we’re talking about why it accumulated in the first place.” The 27-year-old Catholic has no doubt there are spiritual ramifications to her work: a garage loaded with bulk items from Costco, a drawer stuffed with ex-

pired coupons, a give pile of clothes with tags. “It’s a rabbit hole,” Carly said. “People are looking to fill other needs when they buy things, especially when they o v e r b u y. Once they develop t h a t awaren e s s , there’s a mental shift and they can focus on the more important stuff.” Hence, the statement on her Twitter profile: “I organize your life so you can live it.” Carly makes a point to keep her own life in order, which is why you’ll find her at the 10:30 Mass at St. Agnes in Arlington, Va., in

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her family’s standard spot – right side, toward the back – for a weekly “re-grounding and regrouping.” It was her trust in God that emboldened her to take the leap into self-employment at 23, turning down a job offer from a PR firm that o n c e w o u l d’ve sounded like her dream job but felt more like a trap. “I was miserable in the corporate world. The system didn’t make sense to me: The interns were working 7 to 7 because they wanted to move up to be an assistant account executive to work even longer hours.” Since then Carly has successfully built up her business. Armed with bins, shelving and a label maker, there’s no basement she can’t conquer. She jokes about spotting the National Geographics – that recurring strip of canary yellow – and her 50 percent success rate of persuading the owner to recycle them. Nearly all her clients hug her when she leaves, describing the weight lifted off their shoulders. It’s amazing how the sight of a bare counter can fill your lungs and clear your mind. In this season of spring cleaning, of open windows and Alleluias, of the pontiff who preaches simple living, now is the time to de-clutter – time to travel light, to give freely, to be empty handed and open hearted. Christina Capecchi is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, Minn., and the editor of SisterStory.org.

Four County Catholic April 2015

Mercy High Linguists Receive Medals at Foreign Language Poetry Contest For thirty-three years public and private schools in the State have awarded thousands of certificates to Submitted by Marie Leary Director of Communications & Public Relations

World Language students who have participated in the Poetry Recitation Contests sponsored by the Connecticut Council of Language Teachers (CT COLT), an organization composed of language teachers from most schools in Connecticut. This year Mercy High School had five students receive award medals at the recently held competition. Sharon Webster, a member of the Junior class and daughter of Bonnie-Jean Connal of Branford, received a gold medal in French 4 and Hannah Chua-Reyes, a sophomore and daughter of Janet ChuaReyes of Middletown, received a gold medal in Spanish 3. There were three recipients in Italian. Katherine Hall, a member of the

Class of 2018 and daughter of Matthew and Elizabeth Hall of Clinton, received a gold medal in Italian 1; Jamie Roxas, a junior and daughter of Reginald and Luzviminda Roxas of Middletown, received a silver medal in Italian 3; Hayley Comstock, a senior and daughter of Mr. and Mrs. Donald Comstock of Wallingford, received a bronze medal in Italian 4. This year’s event was hosted by Lyman Hall High School in Wallingford. Approximately 410 students from forty-nine schools competed in fourteen languages including American Sign Language (ASL), Ancient Greek, Arabic, Mandarin Chinese, English Language Learners (ESOL/ELL), French, German, Modern Greek, Italian, Latin, Polish, Portuguese, Russian and Spanish. Each school was allowed to enter one student per level per language except for the heritage speaker category.

Left to right: Sharon Webster, Hannah Chua-Reyes, Hayley Comstock, Jamie Roxas, Katherine Hall.

Rejoice in Hope Day of Recollection Hope and the Glory of Easter April 8, 2015 10:00am3:30pm Led by Father Thomas Hoar, SSE, President, St. Edmund’s Retreat

Divine Mercy Weekend Retreat God invites us in the midst of the noise and distractions we face every day to a deeper and more intimate relationship with Him. Set some time aside for Him, book your retreat today!

(860) 5360565 www.endersisland.com

April 10 at 7:00pmApril 12 at 1:00pm Directed by Sister Eugenia Brady, SJC

St. Michael’s Institute of Sacred Art Illumination of Vellum April 26 at 7:00pm May 2 at 1:00pm Instructor Harvest Crittenden

Four County Catholic April 2015

by Karen H. Whiting

Did You Know? April 1-7 The Golden Rule Week. The golden rule comes from Matthew 7:12 when Jesus said, “Do to others what you would have them do to you.” Talk about treating people the way you’d like to be treated. April 16 High-five day. Look around to see who you can high-five for something good they did or just for being a great friend. April 22 Earth Day. Thank God for creating the earth and read about it in Genesis 1.

April 25 Feast day of St. Mark who wrote the Gospel of Mark. He was often St. Peter’s companion, but also traveled with Barnabus and Paul. He was martyred in Egypt for his faith in Jesus. Read something in Mark this week.

Celebrate Creation During the Easter season we celebrate that Jesus came back to life and opened the gates of heaven for us to have eternal life. April is also a time to celebrate the earth God made and all of creation. Look around for signs of new life as spring comes into bloom and rejoice with planting seeds. • Look for creepy crawling bugs. The Bible talks about learning from the ants that work hard and store food for the winter. • Check out the trees and watch for the leaves to open. • Look for blossoms on trees and buds on flowers. Daffodils and tulips are among the first flowers each spring. • Rejoice when you see new babies or new baby animals. • Find caterpillars that later will change into butterflies. • If there’s water nearby, look for tadpoles. If you find any return every few days to see them change into frogs. • Plant some seeds and watch them grow.

Over 100 students and other members of the UCONN St. Thomas Aquinas Catholic community began Holy Week by participating in the first ever Eucharistic procession through the main streets of the UCONN campus before gathering for the 7pm Student Mass to celebrate Palm Sunday. Photos submitted by Kathy Dochter

Four County Catholic April 2015

Pope Francis Has Taught the Church to Thrive Again Two years after the election of Jorge Mario Bergoglio as Pope Francis, the Catholic Church is back. From the moment he appeared on the loggia of St. Peter’s in a simple white cassock, we knew that Francis was a game changer. Images immediately went viral of the newly elected Vicar of Christ washing the feet of AIDS patients, riding the bus in Buenos Aires administering to God’s people living in the slums. Pundits suggested that the Jesuit from Argentina would change his ways to adapt to the papacy. To the contrary, he has stayed the same priest and man of the poor that he always was and instead has transformed both the papacy and the Church. I’ve experienced this transformation in my own life. Inspired by the Pope’s leadership, I quit my job in politics and took over the leadership of a Catholic organization dedicated to promoting the Church’s social justice agenda in public life. I’m not alone. There are stories everywhere of young and not-soyoung Christians responding in even more radical ways to Francis’s call to spread the joy of knowing Jesus and his great Gospel of justice,

peace and mercy. Why has Francis resonated with his contemporaries? I think there are three reasons: He leads with mercy. The words from his first Sunday message as the Bishop of Rome still ring in my ears: “God never tires of forgiving us, but we sometimes tire of asking Him to forgive us. Mercy is God’s most beautiful attribute. And Francis understands during this time of crisis where too many times the Church has failed to communicate God’s unfailing love for us, we must re-present the basic truths of our faith: that we are children of the God. The Lord loves us. Jesus Christ saves us. The Pope cherishes us, and the Church welcomes us. Some of Francis’s detractors argue that this is soft. Nonsense! This is our faith, and this is the faith of the Church. He leads with authentic joy. “I cannot imagine,” Pope Francis says, “a Christian who doesn’t know how to smile.” Yet the Pope complains that too many peoples’ lives “seem

like Lent without Easter.” He says that we mustn’t always “look like someone who has just come back from a funeral!” Francis—from his joy of knowing Jesus—cannot be accused of such a thing. When he encounters men and women, you know his smile is real, that his tears are authentic and that his love is inspired. He leads with humility. Pope Francis says a good priest is someone who is so close to his people that he becomes a “shepherd living with the smell of the sheep.” He has exemplified this ideal in his own pontificate. He rejected the apostolic palace. He washed the feet of

Muslim women. He affirmed God’s love for the LGBT community. And the list could go on and on. But Francis isn’t doing this for publicity. He believes that this outward focus must be the prominent disposition of the entire Christian community: “I prefer a church which is bruised, hurting and dirty because it has been out on the streets, rather than a church which is unhealthy from being confined and from clinging to its own security.” Paul Rauschenberg said it well some time ago: Pope Francis has made it cool to be Christian again. His pontificate is allowing the world to rediscover the great contribution of faith to culture and civic society. At the end of World War II, Joseph Stalin once arrogantly asked

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Winston Churchill: “How many divisions does the Pope have?” In 2015, we have our answer: The Soviet Union is dead and the Catholic Church is alive. And with Francis leading the flock, the Church isn’t just alive. It’s thriving once again. The angel Gabriel must have been right then: “Nothing is impossible with God.”

St. Mary – St. Joseph School

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Four County Catholic April 2015

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