Four County Catholic August 2012 by Diocese of Norwich

Volume 24 Number 7

August 2012

Rediscover your faith... you are a child of God, called by name, precious in his eyes and loved by him.

Four County Catholic August 2012

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On the Cover 24 Volume

Num

er 7

2012 August

h ur fait lled , ca over yo Redisc ild of God s eyes in hi e a ch you ar e, precious him by nam d loved by an

Pope Benedict XVI has designated October, 2012November, 2013 as the Year of Faith. The inspirational words on the cover are drawn from Isaiah 43: 1-4. Also on the cover is the official logo of this special year-long event. More information will follow in the September and October issues.

FREE to Annual Catholic Appeal contributors and upon request to registered Catholics in the Diocese of Norwich. Editorial & Advertising Deadlines

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 August 2012

The Most Reverend

Michael R. Cote, D.D.

Bishop of Norwich

Year of Faith – A Time to Flourish My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: The religious, social and constitutional issues that have increasingly occupied our thoughts these past months have not taken a summer vacation. They have remained here with us and have intensified. This is a historic time for our economy, our character as a Nation and for religious freedom. It is an especially appropriate time for the Vatican to have designated the Year of Faith to begin on October 11, 2012. The chosen date corresponds to the 50th Anniversary of the Second Vatican Ecumenical Council and, of course, precedes the November U.S. Presidential General Election. The goal of the Year of Faith is to encourage Catholics to actively rediscover our faith and generously share the saving truth of the Gospel at a time calling out for direction and purpose. You will be hearing the term New Evangelization to identify a renewed missionary spirit emerging over the designated twelve months. We find ourselves as Catholics in America tested severely by a society increasingly more secular, by decreased religious observance and too often by a sense of complacency. The Year of Faith recognizes

these challenges of the time and will help us reconnect with the core teachings of our faith. It will enable us through events, liturgy and learning opportunities to provide a more powerful witness both near and far. We pray that we reach and welcome home many of our brothers and sisters who have been away from the Church for a while. We miss them and have been praying for them. We must, of course, feel secure in the exercise of religious freedom to live and share our faith. We cannot act with any less urgency right now regarding the united effort to let our U.S. Senators and Congressional Representatives know that the HHS mandate must be rescinded. There can be no concession of our First Amendment rights. We remain on full alert as the 43 lawsuits protesting the mandate work toward a legal conclusion. All our efforts to rekindle and live our faith through the many charitable and life-saving ministries depend on freedom of religion and conscience. We must preserve and protect our religious freedom. This defense must continue. To this end, the Conference of Bishops has initiated a text message campaign. As supporters of religious liberty, you can text “Freedom” (for Eng-

lish) or “Libertad” (for Spanish) to 377377 on your cell phones to receive updates on religious liberty. I encourage you to make use of this vehicle and to continue your prayers and actions for religious liberty. We are aware of the recent action by the House Appropriations Subcommittee on Labor/HHS to include two provisions in its appropriations bill for Fiscal Year 2013: the Abortion Non-Discrimination Act and the Respect for Rights of Conscience Act. The Labor/HHS bill must be approved by the full House Appropriations Committee, then the House of Representatives, before it can be sent to the Senate. This could be a potential breakthrough regarding the Affordable Care Act - HHS mandate violations against religious liberty. We shall see. Certainly, it further underscores the need to contact our local and State representatives. In the face of so many converging challenges, the Year of Faith will also help us renew our appreciation of community. Community was central to Jesus’ mission and remains at the heart of his Church still. As a community of faith, we support, sustain and comfort each other through all the trials, tribulations, joys and despairs.

Recently, St. Paul Parish in Waterford and the entire diocese experienced the tragic and painful criminal investigation of a former pastor now charged with possession of child pornography. We face this openly, in full cooperation with the authorities and together as a community. It tests our forgiving nature. In time, as Timothy Cardinal Dolan would phrase it, “The better angels of our nature will prevail.” I believe we will emerge as an even stronger community. Our response to this incident was immediate, direct and with a parish-first determination. We were very much assisted by the Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People, which mandates zero tolerance with regard to child endangerment in any form. This we have maintained from the first moment the diocese was notified. It is still early in the legal proceedings, and we are just at the beginning of the healing process for all offended and saddened by what happened. We will find strength in community. We will overcome this reprehensible moment. With further regard to community, you may have followed the outrage over a recent column on the sports pages of a local newspa-

per. A sports editor wrote a flagrantly offensive condemnation of one of the diocesan high schools. Letters to the editor by students and parents in defense of the school and an editorial rebuttal by the diocesan Director of Communications strongly defended our schools. Here was a clear and present demonstration of community solidarity. There has been no more compelling demonstration of community in recent months than the St. Joseph Parish in Norwich opening their school building to the St. Vincent DePaul Place soup kitchen and food pantry. The kindness, generosity and caring spirit of the Parish to help those most in need exemplifies the Catholic community. Community matters. As the Year of Faith approaches, let us take the time and find the energy to rediscover our faith and bring the good news of salvation to others. In this way you will be joyfully energized by a personal encounter with Jesus Christ. And your community of faith will flourish. Sincerely yours in Christ’s love, Bishop Michael R. Cote

Año de Fe – Un Tiempo para Florecer Queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo: Los problemas religiosos, sociales y constitucionales que han ocupado cada vez más nuestros pensamientos en estos últimos meses no han tomado una vacación de verano. Han permanecido aquí con nosotros y han aumentado. Este es un momento histórico para nuestra economía, para nuestro carácter como Nación y para la lib-

ertad religiosa. Es un momento apropiado especialmente para el Vaticano, que comenzando el 11 de octubre del 2012 lo ha nombrado el Año de Fe. La fecha escogida corresponde al 50O aniversario de el Concilio Vaticano II y, por supuesto, precede a las elecciones presidenciales generales de noviembre de los Estados Unidos. El objetivo de el Año de Fe es animar activamente a los

Católicos a descubrir de nuevo su fe y compartir generosamente la verdad salvadora del Evangelio en un tiempo llamado a dirección y propósito. Surgiendo a través de los designados doce meses usted estará escuchando el término de Nueva Evangelización que identificará a un renovado espíritu misionero. Como Católicos nos encontramos en los Estados Unidos severamente puestos a prueba por una

sociedad cada vez más secular, por la disminución de la práctica religiosa y con demasiada frecuencia por un sentido de complacencia. El Año de Fe reconoce estos desafíos de la época y nos ayudará a reconectarnos con las enseñanzas fundamentales de nuestra fe. A través de eventos, liturgia y oportunidades de aprendizaje nos permitirá entregar un testimonio más poderoso ambos proximal y lejano.

Oramos para alcanzar y dar bienvenida a muchos de nuestros hermanos y hermanas que han estado alejados de la Iglesia por un tiempo. Los extrañamos y hemos estado orando por ellos. Por supuesto, para vivir y compartir nuestra fe debemos sentirnos seguros en la práctica de libertad religiosa. En estos momentos no podemos proceder con menos urAño de Fe Cont. on page 4

Four County Catholic August 2012

Año de Fe Cont. from page 3

gencia respecto al esfuerzo unido por dejar saber a nuestros Senadores y Representantes del Congreso de Estados Unidos que el mandato HHS (por sus siglas en inglés) debe ser revocado. No puede haber concesión de nuestros derechos de Primera Enmienda. Permanecemos en máxima alerta a medida que las 43 demandas judiciales trabajan protestando el mandato con dirección a una conclusión jurídica. Todos nuestros esfuerzos por reavivar y vivir nuestra fe a través de muchos ministerios de caridad y salvar -vidas dependen de la libertad de conciencia y de religión. Debemos preservar y proteger nuestra libertad religiosa. Esta defensa debe continuar. Con este fin, la Conferencia de Obispos ha puesto en marcha una campaña de mensajes de texto. Usted como partidario a la libertad religiosa, puede enviar un texto en su teléfono celular “Freedom” (en inglés) o “Libertad” (en español) al 377377 para recibir actualizados en libertad religiosa. Le recomiendo

que haga uso de este medio y continúe su oración y acción para la libertad religiosa. Estamos concientes de la acción reciente por el Subcomité de Asignaciones de la Cámara de Trabajo/HHS (por sus siglas en inglés) de incluir dos resoluciones en su ley de asignaciones para el Año Fiscal 2013; la Ley de No-Discriminación de Aborto y la Ley de Respeto a los derechos de Conciencia. La Ley de Trabajo HHS (por sus siglas en inglés), debe ser aprobada por toda la Cámara del Comité de Asignaciones, luego por la Cámara de Representantes, antes de poder ser enviada al Senado. Esto podría ser una eventual ruptura con respecto a las violaciones de el mandato ACA-HHS (por sus siglas en inglés) en contra de la libertad religiosa. Veremos. Ciertamente, resalta aún más la necesidad de contactar a nuestros representantes locales y Estatales. Frente a tantos desafíos que coninciden, el Año de Fe también nos ayudará a renovar nuestra apre-

ciación a la comunidad. La comunidad fue fundamental para la misión de Jesús y todavía permanece en el corazón de su Iglesia. Como comunidad de fe, nos apoyamos, nos sostenemos y nos consolamos unos a otros a través de todas las pruebas, tribulaciones, alegrías y desesperanzas. Recientemente, la Parroquia de St. Paul en Waterford y toda la diócesis experimentó la trágica y dolorosa investigación penal de un ex-pastor ahora acusado de posesión de pornografía infantil. Enfrentamos esto abiertamente, en plena cooperación con las autoridades y unidos como comunidad. Esto pone a prueba nuestra naturaleza de perdonar. Con el tiempo, como lo expresaría el cardenal Timothy Dolan, “Los mejores ángeles de nuestra naturaleza prevalecerán”. Yo Creo que surgiremos como una comunidad más sólida. Nuestras acciones en este incidente fueron inmediatas, directas y con la determinación de la parroquia-en primer lugar. Estabamos muy asis-

tidos por el Estatuto para la Protección de Niños y Jóvenes, que obliga en cualquier forma cero tolerancia con respecto a niños en peligro. Nosotros hemos mantenido esto desde el primer momento en que la diócesis fue notificada. Aún es temprano en el proceso judicial, y estamos justo al principio del proceso de sanación para todos los ofendidos y entristecidos por lo ocurrido. Encontraremos fortaleza en la comunidad. Nosotros superaremos este momento censurable. En lo que respecta a la comunidad, quizás usted haya seguido a la indignación por causa de una columna reciente en las páginas deportivas de un periódico local. Un editor de deportes, escribió una condenación escandalosamente ofensiva de una de las escuelas secundarias diocesanas. Cartas al editor en defensa de la escuela de parte de padres y estudiantes y una refutación editorial de parte de el Director diocesano de Comunicaciones defendió con firmeza nuestras escuelas. Aquí hubo una

demostración clara y actual de solaridad comunitaria. No ha habido ninguna demostración de comunidad en los meses recientes más convincente que la de la Parroquia de St. Joseph en Norwich con la apertura de su edificio de escuela al sitio de soup Kitchen y de despensa de alimentos de San Vincente DePaul. La bondad, generosidad y espíritu caritativo de la Parroquia por ayudar a aquellos en más necesidad ejemplifica la comunidad Católica. La Comunidad es primordial. A medida que el Año de Fe se acerca, tomemos el tiempo y encontremos la energía para descubrir de nuevo nuestra fe y llevar la Buena Nueva de salvación a los demás. De esta manera usted estará gozosamente vigorizado por un encuentro personal con Jesucristo. Y su comunidad de fe florecerá. Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo, Obispo Michael R. Cote Translated by Paulina Angulo

Rejoice in Hope Days of Recollection August 15 Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary Fr. Mike Najim September 5 Jesus Calms the Storms at Sea Sr. Eugenia Brady, SJC

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

Cost is $35, includes a hot lunch.

Summer Guided Retreats August 13 16 The Nameless Women of the Gospels Cynthia Giardina August 26 September 1 Guided by the Mystics Fr. John Burchill, OP

Evening Prayer and Sunset Cruises on the Argia Join us each Monday for dinner and evening prayer, and a sail aboard the 81 foot Argia. $40 per person

Mondays through August 20

Four County Catholic August 2012

Director of Priestly Vocations

Reverend Gregory Galvin Praised be Jesus Christ now and forever! Time for our summer summary! We give thanks for the diaconal ordination of seminarian Deacon Brian Maxwell. The Diocesan family gathered together on a beautiful Saturday morning in Middletown this past June 30, 2012 at Saint John Church. During the 10:30 am Mass of Ordination, following the beautifully chanted litany of saints and the Laying on of Hands in silence, Bishop Cote prayed these words near the end of the Prayer of Ordination: “May there abound in him every Gospel virtue: unfeigned love, concern for the sick and poor, unassuming authority, the purity of innocence, and the observance of spiritual discipline. May your commandments shine forth in his conduct, so that by the example of his

way of life he may inspire the imitation of your holy people”. Pray that Deacon Brian will continue to grow in each of the Gospel virtues mentioned above as he continues his academic, spiritual, pastoral and human formation during his fourth year of seminary. God willing, sometime next spring Bishop Cote will call Deacon Brian to the Holy Order of Priesthood. In this past June’s Vocations Corner article we welcomed both Tom Griffin and Peter Langevin. This month, I am happy to announce that Bishop Cote accepted the application of Mr. Kurt O’Brien to be a sponsored college level seminarian for the diocese. Kurt is from Bolton and is a member of Saint Maurice parish. He will be continuing his college studies at Holy Apostles College and

Seminary this fall. At the beginning of June, Mr. Michael Salerno who had just finished his second year of seminary, discerned prayerfully that he should not continue. We thank Michael for being open to God’s will and we will keep him in our prayers and pray for his peace and happiness. As mentioned in the June article, Juan Angel Aguirre Palacio and Ruben Dario Garcia Sanchez will be arriving on August 12, 2012. We are excited to welcome them both as they are coming to study

English for two years at Clark University in Worcester. During the academic year they will be staying at the Holy Name of Jesus House of Studies in Worcester and will receive an assignment here in the diocese for weekends to practice the English they are learning. I look forward to showing them around the diocese during their first week here and then getting them settled at the House of Studies in Worcester. This month, our Holy Hour for Vocations will be held on August

16, 2012 at Saint Colman parish in Middlefield at 4pm. Please come and pray with us if you are able and your schedule allows it. As we reach the middle of August, our seminarians will begin to head back to their respective seminaries; so please continue to keep them in your prayers. It is amazing how quickly the summer goes by. Thank you all for your continued support and prayers regarding the work of vocations. We just need to remember, if we pray, they will come!

…young men of ur community hear the call of the Lord and respond generously with open hearts and spirits. Together, we pray.

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

Discovering Our Diocese Where is This? Can you identify where this was taken? Answer is on page 22. Photo by Trina Fulton

August 16 September 20 October 18 November 15 December 20

St. Colman Church, Middlefield St. Luke Church, Ellington Our Lady of Lourdes Church, Gales Ferry St. Joseph Church, North Grosvenordale St. Andrew Church, Colchester

4-5 6-7 7-8 4-5 7-8

Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations vocations@norwichdiocese.net • (860) 887-9294

pm pm pm pm pm

Four County Catholic August 2012

Saturday-Sunday, August 11- 12 Haiti’s Back Porch at The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival Saturday, August 11th, 10:00- 6:00 pm - Sunday, August 12th, 10:005:00 pm. Visit Haiti’s Back Porch’s exhibit at The Mystic Outdoor Art Festival in historic downtown Mystic, Shop for beautiful hand-made artwork from Haitian artisans. Volunteers are needed. Please call 860.344.9547 if you are interested in helping out at our booth!

Saturday, August 25 Maria Assunta Society Scholarship Golf Tournament 7:30am at Wood River Golf course in Richmond, RI. Shotgun Scramble $75, includes golf, cart & meal. Men’s & women’s prizes. Come play golf or sponsor a hole. For more information contact Raymond Trebisacci, 398 Liberty Street, Pwcatuck, CT 06379. Saturday, August 25 Shop for a Cause at Macy’s

Purchase a $5.00 ticket at the Crystal Mall in Waterford and get in on great sales! 10%-20% off storewide, one day only. Tickets purchased through Outreach to Haiti benefit Haitians in need. To purchase tickets call 860.848.2237 x 206 or email info@outreachtohaiti.org. Saturday, August 25 Walking In the Spirit One Day Southern New England Charismatic Conference with speaker Jim Murphy from Michigan from 9:00 -8:00pm (includes lunch/dinner) My Father’s House, 39 North Moodus Rd., Moodus, From more information please call 860-8731581. Free Will offering. Monday, August 27 Mass of Healing Prayer and Adoration 7:00pm St. Agnes Church, 22 Haigh Ave., Niantic.

Clergy Appointments The Most Reverend Michael R Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy appointments in the Diocese of Norwich: Reverend Christopher Feeney from Parochial Vicar, Saint John Parish, Old Saybrook, to Parochial Vicar, Saint Joseph Parish, New London, and Our Lady of Grace Parish, Fishers Island. Effective: July 2, 2012. Reverend George Mattathilanikal from Parochial Vicar, Saint Joseph Parish, New London, and Our Lady of Grace Parish, Fishers Island, to Parochial Vicar, Our Lady of Lourdes Parish, Gales Ferry. Effective: July 2, 2012. Reverend Prodeep Chandra Nayak from Parochial Vicar, Saint Joseph Parish, New London, and Our Lady of Grace Parish, Fishers Island, returning to India. Effective: June 30, 2012. Reverend James Thaikoottathil, JCD, from Administrator, Saint Sebastian Parish, Middletown, to Pastor, Saint Sebastian Parish, Middletown. Effective: June 1, 2012. Reverend George Villamthanam, CST, from Parochial Vicar, Saint Luke Parish, Ellington, to Administrator, Saint Luke Parish, Ellington. Effective: June 1, 2012. Deacon Lawrence Goodwin, from Deacon, Saint Joseph Parish, Willimantic, to Deacon, Saint Joseph Parish, Willimantic, Sagrado Corazon de Jesus Parish, Windham, and Saint Margaret Mission, Scotland. Effective: June 20, 2012. Deacon Felipe Silva, from Deacon, Sagrado Corazon de Jesus Parish, Windham, to Deacon, Saint Joseph Parish, Willimantic, Sagrado Corazon de Jesus Parish, Windham, and Saint Margaret Mission, Scotland. Effective: June 20, 2012. ~ Monsignor Robert L. Brown, Chancellor ~

Friday-Sunday, September 14-16 Marriage Encounter Weekend The perfect weekend for couples to experience a richer and loving life together. Rediscover each other for an entire weekend with a heart-toheart Marriage Encounter. To register for the next weekend in East Hartford or for more information, please call 860-376-0440. Saturday, September 15 Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s 57th Annual Convention All women in the Diocese are cordially invited to attend the Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s 57th Annual Convention at St. John the Evangelist Parish, 22 Maple Avenue, Uncasville. The day begins at 9:00am with registration and coffee. Maribeth Stewart, VicePresident North America, World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations will speak. Keynote speaker will be Anna DiBiasi, Director of Education and Development for the Outreach to Haiti. Bishop Michael Cote will celebrate the Noon Mass. Lunch immediately following Mass. To register mail a $25.00 check made out to NDCCW to: Viola Mulcahy, 22 Teecomwas Drive, Uncasville. For more information please contact Helen Connell at 860-848-8998. Saturday, September 15 Fall Festival St. Joseph Living Center in Windham is seeking vendors for their annual fall festival from 10:00-3:00pm. Home goods, crafts, tag sale, art,

plants etc. $20.00 per table. For an application please call the recreation department at 860-456-1107. Thurs.-Sat., September 20-22

Fall Festival St. Joseph Church, 11 Baltic Rd. in Versailles is having their annual fall festival On Thursday from 9:00-4:00pm, Friday from9:00-8:00pm, and Saturday from10:00-7:00pm. Yard Sale and Kidz Closet is on Thursday only. Friday and Saturday, will have food, needlework, baked goods, general store, treasure chest, silent auction, attic treasures, kidz closet and much more. Our Famous Fish-N-Chips is Friday, from 5:00- 8:00 pm; major raffle drawing begins at 7:00pm on Saturday.

Friday, September 28 “Chair-ity” for Haiti At the Mystic Art Center, in Mystic from 5:00-8:00pm. Join us for a night on the Mystic River featuring silent auction of unique chairs to benefit Haitians in need. Find unique styles of chairs for your backyard, poolside, winter cabin, or right in your living room. Enjoy refreshments and music entertainment at this beautiful venue on the Mystic River. We are excepting chair donations. Please call 860.848.2237 x 206 if you or someone you know would like to donate a decorative chair for auction! Saturday, September 29 Unbound Prayer Ministry Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich at 10:00am by Appointment ONLY – Please Call 860-887-0702 to make an appointment or for more information.

Sunday, October 21, 2012

Silver and Gold Jubilee Anniversary Mass September 15, October 13, November 3, December 2 Gift of Grace Prison Ministry Training Program Prison Ministry is now seeking volunteers for the Gift of Grace Prison Ministry Training Program. For more information, please contact Sheree Antoch at 860.848.2237. Saturday, September 15 Day of Reflection Join us at My Father’s House, 39 North Moodus Rd., Moodus, from 9:00-4:00pm. This year’s theme will focus on Saint Therese of Lisieux “The Little Flower”. Fr. William McCarthy will be presenting. Offering: $25.00 includes lunch .

Inviting all couples married 25 & 50 years, also those celebrating any significant anniversary year, to participate in and renew your wedding vows in a Pontifical Mass which will be celebrated by Bishop Michael R. Cote at 2:00pm at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich. Family and friends are invited to share in this special testimony and witness to love and marriage. Light refreshments will be provided in the Cathedral Hall following the Mass. Register through your parish. For information call Susan Williams at 860-889-8346.

Monday, September 17 Unbound: Guidance to Deliverance and Freedom in Christ St. Sebastian Church, 155 Washington St., Middletown. From 7:008:30pm. Presented by Fr. Ray Introvigne and Mrs. Judith Hughes.

Sunday, November 4th Open House Mercy High School Middle school girls and parents are invited to attend! 1:00pm. 1740 Randolph Rd. Middletown, For more info visit www.mercyhigh.com.

Tuesday, September 18 Mass of Healing and Hope At St. Thomas Seminary Chapel, 467 Bloomfield Ave., Bloomfield, at 7:00pm. Presented by Fr. Ray Introvigne, Celebrant and Mrs. Judith Hughes.

Saturday, November 17 Mercy High School Entrance Exam for the Class of 2017 1740 Randolph Rd. Middletown, 860-346-6659 8:00-11:15am. For more information and to register visit www.mercyhigh.com.

Four County Catholic August 2012

Sailors Lend Muscle to Norwich Soup Kitchen’s Move Volunteers help set up St. Vincent de Paul Place in new home St. Joseph School was bustling with activity Tuesday, July 10, as a cadre of volunteers and workers

Officials on Tuesday said it won’t be possible to set up a Southeast Area Transit bus stop at the site, but city Human Resources Director Beverly Goulet hopes a downtown shuttle route will be

ing at the local resources, and I’m working on that right now.” Rick Hicks, a senior chief machinist mate for the Pre-CommisBy Adam Benson sioning Unit North Dakota, said Reprint from The Bulletin its sailors are eager to help with prepared the vacant other community servCliff Street building ice projects until the for occupancy by St. submarine is launched. Vincent de Paul Place. “Until we can get to Even the several sea, we’ll make our imlarge fans stationed in pact here,” Hicks said. each corner of the cafe“We got the call for teria weren’t enough to help (Monday), we keep perspiration from gathered the group accumulating on the today and we’re on it.” yellow and gray Navy So, too, were Eileen T-shirts worn by the Dolan and Virginia 20 sailors who helped Levasseur, board memmove furniture for bers at St. Vincent de much of the morning Paul Place, who prointo the soup kitchen’s vided bottled water to temporary home. volunteers and picked “They needed help, up $100 worth of we had free time and pizza donated by we decided to do it,” Rena’s. said Jamison Dore, a Dolan said moving student at the Submafrom the facility’s rine School at the Gro- Dylan Thompson, foreground, and Kenny Bell, students at the downtown offices was ton naval submarine Submarine School at the Groton sub base, carry a table from St. difficult, but necessary base. “It’s always good Vincent de Paul Place into its temporary home at St. Joseph School because of the growing Adam Benson/The Bulletin demand for its services. to help. You never on Cliff Street in Norwich. know when you’re “I’ve been volungoing to need it.” established. teering to serve meals for the past Dore was one of 12 sub base stu“They absolutely need the trans- four or five years, and have seen the dents on hand Tuesday. They were portation. It’s a significant issue,” need grow,” she said. “This is what joined by eight members of the Goulet said. “It’s a matter of look- we have to do.” Pre-Commissioning Unit crew of the USS North Dakota, a Virginiaclass submarine being built at Electric Boat. Officials at the Norwich Diocese had announced plans to relocate its downtown ministry for at least the The Norwich Diocesan Office for Prison Ministry is offering next six months. They said cona training program, called “Gift of Grace”, for adults interstruction at the Railroad Place ested in serving the spiritual needs of prisoners in correctional headquarters is too extensive to institutions of Eastern Connecticut. The Office for Prison keep the soup kitchen and food Ministry trains volunteers for scripture study and sharing, pantry operating there while the sacramental preparation, prayer groups, religious education, work is being done. retreat days, small Christian communities, and music for liturJillian Corbin, executive director gies. Training will take place Sept. 15, 2012, Oct. 13, 2012, of St. Vincent de Paul Place, said Nov.3, 2012, Dec. 2, 2012. Volunteers bi-lingual in Spanish news of the move spread quickly and English are especially needed. Pre-registration is required. through the city, and many other For more information, please contact Sheree Antoch, Office faith-based and civic groups offor Prison Ministry, 199 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360; fered aid to ease the transition to 860-848-2237 ext. 211 or prison@norwichdiocese.net. St. Joseph School.

Volunteers Needed for Prison Ministries

The Assumption of the Blessed Virgin Mary August 15, 2012 From on high, Mary follows our footsteps with gentle concern, dispels the gloom in moments of darkness and distress. Pawcatuck -The Maria Assunta Society of St. Michael Church, Pawcatuck invite all to join us in our 92nd Feast of the Assumption on August 12, 2012. The celebration will begin with the Rosary in honor of the Blessed Virgin Mary in the Grotto at St. Micahel Church on Thursday, August 9 and Friday, August 10 at 7:00 pm. On Sunday, August 12, Mass will be celebrated at 10:30 am at St. Mary Church, Broad Street, Stonington. Following the Mass there will be a traditional procession starting at 12:15 pm at St. Michael Church, with the statue of the Blessed Virgin Mary being carried through the streets of Pawcatuck. Upon returning to the church, refreshments wil be served. The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, will be the celebrant and homilist for the Mass. New London - a special Mass honoring the Feast of the Assumption will be celebrated on Sunday, August 12 at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church. The Most Reverend Daniel Patrick Reilly, Bishop Emeritus of Worcester will be the Principal Celebrant and will lead a procession following Mass to St. Joseph Church. There will be a blessing of the sick ceremony at St. Joseph, before the procession makes its way back to St. Mary Star of the Sea.

Four County Catholic August 2012

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Diocese Teens Learn ‘Theology of the Hammer’ And Make Habitat Home a Reality for Grateful Family NORWICH — In just six months’ time, an empty lot at 51 Fairmount Street By Shelley Wolf Four County Catholic Contributor

that was choked with weeds and dead Christmas trees has become the site of a new 1,200-square-foot home for a single mother and her two young sons — thanks to a Habitat for Humanity interfaith building effort that included several youth groups sponsored by the Diocese of Norwich. In a home dedication ceremony on June 10, Norwich Mayor Peter Nystrom presented the keys to a modest, three-bedroom tan house with green shutters to Michelle Cudzilo and her two boys, Jarrod, 7, and Joshua, 5, enabling them to move from their substandard apartment in Groton and begin a new life as homeowners in Norwich. During opening prayers at the dedication, the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, thanked the many people who collaborated on the project but said he was most grateful for the efforts of the youth of the Diocese of Norwich. Approximately 30 Catholic teenagers from St. Agnes Church Youth Group in Niantic and from St. Bernard School in Montville contributed more than 200 volunteer hours to the building effort. “May their example be a reminder that we are indeed our brother’s keeper,” Bishop Cote said. The Diocese of Norwich was the lead sponsor of this particular house build, which was orchestrated by Habitat for Humanity of Southeastern Connecticut as its 49th house and touted as a “Youth United Build.” During the six-month building process — which began in January with a framing blitz intended to beat any snowfall — Diocese teenagers laid tile, sanded wood trim, and nailed boards together to create joists, headers, and studs. “We hoped this project would give the youth of the Diocese of Norwich an opportunity to extend their service beyond the boundaries of their parishes,” said Marge Vanner

of the Diocese’s Office of Faith part of her new life in Norwich, the Events. “They got to experience young mother plans to register her working with other youth and adult sons in city schools. She is also a volunteers in the Norwich area. The practicing Baptist at Shepherd of the ideal goal is to see these youth be- Sea in Groton and says she is considcome adult volunteers for other proj- ering joining the First Baptist ects like this.” Church of Norwich, which is conThe Catholic teens engaged in what late Habitat for Humanity founder Millard Fuller called “the theology of the hammer”— the experience of joining together with diverse groups of people to build homes for God’s people in need. Moreover, they learned giving through voluntary labor and other contributions with no expectation of profit, also known as “the economics of Jesus.” “It’s why we do a no-interest loan,” explained Amanda Shanks, opera- Bishop Cote providing his support and blessings. tions assistant for Habit for Human- veniently located in her new neighity of Southeastern Connecticut. “It’s borhood. something tangible we can do, givMany parties came together to ing back in the love of Christ.” make the Fairmount Street project New homeowner Michelle Cud- happen. According to Terri zilo, who works as an education O’Rourke, executive director of technician at the Child Develop- Habitat for Humanity of Southeastment Center in Groton, will now ern Connecticut, the property was pay back a no-interest mortgage to donated by Karen Allen, and the Habitat. The money will go into a agency received financial assistance revolving “Fund for Humanity” that from the Kitchings Foundation, the will allow Habitat to build future City of Norwich, Dime Bank, homes. “That’s what makes the pro- Chelsea Groton Bank, and numergram sustainable and a hand up in- ous other businesses in the local stead of a handout, and allows us to community. help more families in the future,” “It’s always a leap of faith,” Shanks said. O’Rourke said, as to whether any Cudzilo also put in 200 hours of home project will get off the ground “sweat equity” on her new home — and come together in the end. Deanother requirement of the program spite the uncertainty of each project, — nailing up siding and working on O’Rourke said the most rewarding the basement stairs. In addition, her part of her job is “the ability to work family, friends, and co-workers in partnership with people who care pitched in with another 200 hours about each other and change people’s of free labor. lives forever.” “This house means everything to According to Norwich Mayor me,” Cudzilo, age 27, said following Peter Nystrom, the house “represents the dedication ceremony, “every- the whole community standing up thing good that you could ever to help someone.” The mayor espewant.” cially noted the contributions of the Cudzilo, who grew up in a mili- Sachem Fund, which is dedicated to tary family that relocated many urban revitalization. times, is looking forward to developIn addition, numerous volunteer ing roots in her new community. As hands helped to build the home.

The building team, led by Construction Manager Lee Watrous, consisted of many three-day-a-week volunteers known as “Faithful Framers,” the Norwich Diocese youth, as well as students from Three Rivers Community College, members of the Niantic Rotary Club, the Eastern Connecticut Association of Realtors, and members of Union Baptist Church in Mystic. Habitat also held a “Women’s Build Day,” which involved 10 women from the Miss Connecticut pageant. A nearby church also opened its doors to the volunteers. “The First Baptist Church of Norwich, just one block away, let us use their facilities for lunch,” said Amanda Shanks, “especially in winter.” The interfaith effort was apparent during the dedication ceremony. The opening prayer was given by the Bishop of Norwich. Then, after remarks from another Habitat homeowner, Dayana Fuentes, Michele Cudzilo was presented with an orange patchwork quilt by Kathy Wright of the United Methodist Church of Gales Ferry, a lavender prayer shawl by Michelle Cook of Crossroads Presbyterian Church in Waterford, a tool box by Faithful Framer Bob Ronfeld, and finally with a Bible by Marge Vanner on behalf of the Diocese of Norwich. Rich Basham of Niantic Community Church and one of the many Faithful Framers who worked on the project, led the dedication attendees in a group prayer, and Pastor Bill Huegel of the First Baptist Church of Norwich led a laying-on of hands group blessing of the home. Finally, the dedication ceremony concluded with Michelle Cudzilo opening the front door of her new Fairmount Street home to welcome the many guests for a brief tour. Meanwhile, her sons Jarrod and Joshua skipped the house tour and bypassed the watermelon refreshments. Instead, the two boys opted to enjoy vanilla and chocolate cupcakes on their new front porch.

Four County Catholic August 2012

The Vocation of Marriage Of all the seven sacraments of the Catholic Church, marriage is very possibly the one By Sister Elissa Rinere, CP, JCD Office of Worship

that is least understood and appreciated, especially in Western culture. The Catholic Church defines marriage as a permanent union between a man and a woman; an intimate communion of the whole of life through which the spouses provide the path of holiness for each other, and the foundation for family life. In the Church, marriage is a vocation, just as the call to priesthood or religious life is a vocation. This means it is presumed that couples who seek marriage in the Catholic Church have chosen to commit their lives to one another in faith, and to grow together in holiness in response to Baptism. This understanding of marriage is consistent with the Church’s teachings on human dignity, Baptism, and the universal call to holiness. Once a man and a woman make a permanent lifelong commitment to each other in the sacrament of Marriage, the Church accepts that commitment as binding. Pope John Paul II wrote: “The gift of the sacrament is at the same time a vocation and a commandment for the Christian spouses, that they may remain faithful to each other forever, beyond every trial and difficulty, in generous obedience to the holy will of the Lord: ‘What therefore God has joined together, let no one put asunder.’” By way of contrast, in Western

culture, marriage is often looked at primarily as a social step, and a path to personal happiness. A recent newspaper article stated that the average cost for a wedding in 2011 was $26,000. Much of the cultural emphasis for the ceremony is placed on what might be called “wish fulfillment” on the part of the bride: the dress, the flowers, the attendants, the recep-

tion. When great emphasis is placed on the ceremony and the celebration, less emphasis might be placed on the actual commitment. In other words, the wedding can be given more importance than the marriage. Then, when difficulties arise in the relationship, which they surely will, the husband and wife might have fewer inner resources to assist in negotiating them. The actual rite, or ceremony for the Sacrament of Marriage provides for the man and woman to be of equal importance in the ceremony. For instance, the rite suggests that both walk to the altar together, either just the two, or with both sets of parents. It might be culturally important for the bride to walk down the aisle of the church, usually with her father, but sacramentally it is important that both bride and groom walk together. The commitment made in the sacrament of Marriage is the same for both bride and groom;

therefore it is important for all elements of the ceremony to reflect that equality. Another important aspect of the sacrament of Marriage, according to the Church’s teaching, is that the relationship between husband and wife forms the foundation for the “domestic church.” Within this domestic or home church, parents, through the strength of their own Christian living, are intended to form their children in the faith; literally, to evangelize their children through the example of their own lives. As Pope John Paul II wrote: “The ministry of evangelization carried out by Christian parents is original and irreplaceable. It assumes the characteristics typical of family life itself, which should be interwoven with love, simplicity, practicality and daily witness.” Just from these few points, it is clear that the Church presents the sacrament of Marriage in a very different light than does our culture. Also, most other Christian churches, although they see marriage as a holy institution, do not consider it sacramental in the Catholic sense. It is important, both for couples seeking to marry in the Church, and also for the whole Catholic community, that the sacrament be well understood. Of course, it is equally important for those already married to understand the holiness, dignity and nobility of their vocation in the Church. No matter who we are, or where we are within the Church, the call to holiness is for everyone, at all times, in all ways of life, simply because we are baptized.

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Four County Catholic August 2012

Top Parishes for the Annual Catholic Appeal This yearâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Annual Catholic Appeal , â&#x20AC;&#x153;To Love and Serve The Lord,â&#x20AC;? kicked off in FebBy MaryLou Gannotti Director of Planned Giving

ruary of 2012 and will run until December 31st. Each year we are humbled by the response to the Annual Catholic Appeal. Thank you to all those who act faithfully and generously. It is also important to note that through the joint effort of our pastors, parish staff

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and ACA Chairpersons, we are able to realize our goals and see such hard work come to fruition. Their commitment ensures the good work of the Church is carried out. It is a pleasure to announce the top 17 parishes within the Diocese of Norwich that have achieved 100% of their Annual Catholic Appeal Goal: Saint Joseph, Dayville Saint Colman, Middlefield Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry Sacred Heart, Groton Saint Joseph, Norwich Saint Mary, Baltic Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Quaker Hill Saint Francis of Assisi, Lebanon Saint Patrick, Mystic Saint Joseph, North Grosvenordale Saint Andrew, Colchester Saint Mary, Portland Saint Bridget, Moodus Saint Lawrence, Killingworth Saint John, Cromwell

Our Lady of the Lakes, Oakdale Saint Patrick Cathedral, Norwich In addition to this, 21 parishes within the Diocese have come very close to achieving their Annual Catholic Appeal goals. These include: Saint Agnes, Niantic Saint Peter, Higganum Sacred Heart, Taftville Saint Mary, Norwich Most Holy Trinity, Pomfret Saint Bernard, Rockville Saint Matthias, East Lyme Saint Paul, Waterford Saint Thomas Aquinas, Storrs Christ the King, Old Lyme Saint James, Danielson Saint Mary, Groton Saint Mary, Willimantic Saint Joseph/Saint Margaret, Willimantic Saint Thomas, Voluntown Saint Patrick, East Hampton Saint Columba, Columbia Saints Peter and Paul, Norwich Saint Jude, West Willington

Saint Matthew, Tolland Saint Mary, Coventry The Annual Catholic Appeal, was created because it was apparent there was a great need to support the growing ministries and programs of the Roman Catholic

Diocese of Norwich. By putting our faith into action, we are living the message taught to us by Christ. As Christians, we are called to â&#x20AC;&#x153;Love and Serve the Lord.â&#x20AC;? Our doctrine teaches us â&#x20AC;&#x153;Caritas in Veritateâ&#x20AC;? which means, â&#x20AC;&#x153;Charity is at the heart of the Church.â&#x20AC;? Thousands of people in our region have benefitted from the kindness and

compassion displayed to them in their most vulnerable times. It is through our works of mercy that we receive the grace that God has given to us. Christ asked us to feed the hungry and give drink to the thirsty, counsel the doubtful and comfort the afflicted. The programs and ministries funded by the Annual Catholic Appeal administer to those in need physically, emotionally and spiritually in the four counties served by the Diocese and beyond. To those who have already responded, thank you! To those preparing to respond we appreciate your support! To learn more about the 2012 Annual Catholic Appeal or to donate online, visit www.norwichdiocesedevelopment.org. *Parish listing accurate as of July 16, 2012.

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Four County Catholic August 2012

Catholic Charities Opens Middletown Office It was a crowded room that greeted Bishop Michael R. Cote as he blessed the new Middletown By Josh Piteo

office of Catholic Charities on Monday June 18th. Dozens of supporters and well-wishers from through-out the diocese gathered to welcome back Catholic Charities to the city. Adjacent to St. Seb a s t i a n church, the new location is centrally located in downtown Middletown. “This is a great day for us being back in Middletown. We couldn’t be happier with the support and the big turn out today,” said Catholic Charities Executive Director Marek Kukulka. Not only was there diocese staff, but many parishioners from area churches were also in attendance. According to Advisory Board member Jackie Haywood, “Local churches were asked to put announcements of the grand opening in their Sunday bulletins and many came because of it.” Local dignitaries also came to voice their support. Larry McHugh, chairman of the Mid-

dlesex County Chamber of Commerce, said Catholic Charities was an important member of the chamber offering services in the County of real importance. McHugh’s comments were echoed by Middletown Mayor Daniel Drew who said that, “In

difficult economic times it’s good to have an organization like Catholic Charities as a part of our community.” According to Kukulka, the new office is big enough to offer a variety of services as staff and funding will allow, “We can do a lot more with this new office, we have more options.” said Kukulka. Though the new location has more space, before many new programs can be offered, word of the new office still needs to get out, “We’ll be spending some time this summer letting human services providers and the Middletown community know what we

Resignation of the Executive Director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich, Inc. NORWICH - The Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, has accepted the resignation of Marek K. Kukulka, LMFT, as Executive Director of Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich, Inc., effective September 19, 2012. Bishop Cote, President of the Board of Catholic Charities, commended Mr. Kukulka for his outstanding leadership of Catholic Charities for the past seven years. Mr. Kukulka has accepted a position of Chief Officer of Operations with Catholic Charities, Inc., Archdiocese of Hartford. A search committee has been formed to fill this position.

offer,” said Kukulka. Among the most critical current needs are Case managers’ assistance with home foreclosure prevention, adoptions and addiction disorders. In the future, mortgage and employment counseling, as done in other diocese offices, are scheduled to be added. Currently, the new office provides behavioral health services for adults and children along with marriage and substance abuse counseling. The office works closely with diocesan charity St. Vincent De Paul Place with client referrals for basic needs of food and shelter. In his concluding remarks after the blessing, Bishop Cote hoped that more people would turn to Catholic Charities which he said provides help and hope to the needy, “they are Christ’s hands in our community”.

Former Pastor of St. Paul Church in Waterford scheduled to appear in court August 13 Waterford - Reverend Dennis Carey, former Pastor of St. By FCC News Desk

Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony Holy St Anthony gentlest of Saints. Your love for God and charit for His creators made you wor hy when on ear h posses miraculous power which you were ready to speak for those who are in t ouble or anxiet . Encouraged by this thought I implore to you to obtain for me (request) The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so you are the saint of miracles Oh gentle and loving St. Anthony whose hear is f ll of human sy pathy whisper my petition into the ears of sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your ar s, and the g atit de of my hear will ever be yours. This 13 day Novena has never been known to fail. Say three Hail Mar 's and three Glories and promise publication.

~ CP ~

Paul Church in Waterford, was arrested on July 3, 2012, on the charge of first degree possession of child pornography. He has entered a not guilty plea. His next court appearance will be on August 13, in the New London Superior Court. Costs for his legal defense are not being borne by the diocese. As per Bishop Cote’s July 6, 2012, letter to all members of the diocesan family, Father Carey is no longer permitted to function as a priest in any capacity and the process for his dismissal from the clerical state has been initiated. Reverend Joseph Whittel is currently serving as Administrator of St. Paul Church. At the request of Bishop Cote, Fa-

ther Whittel and representatives of the diocese held a private “family meeting” with parishioners on July 15 to answer questions and share concerns. The Bishop is encouraging anyone with knowledge or information relevant to this case to contact the Connecticut State Police directly. Calls should be directed to State Trooper David Aresco at 860685-8190. As we continue to support each other in prayer, Bishop Cote asks that we also “continue to keep the parishioners of St. Paul’s Parish, and all of the abused and exploited children in the world, in our daily prayers.” The Four County Catholic, print and online, will continue to report on the court proceedings going forward.

Four County Catholic August 2012

Diocese of Norwich Issues Financial Report The Diocese of Norwich has issued a financial report for The Norwich Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation and The Annual Catholic Appeal of The Diocese of Norwich, Inc. for the fiscal year ending June 30, 2011. The Diocese of more than 238,000 Catholics spent $3,459,356 on funding for ministries and programs, including Catholic Charities/Family Services, St. Vincent de Paul Places in Norwich and Middletown, Project Northeast in Putnam, the Hispanic and Haitian Ministries throughout the Diocese, and the offices of Faith Events and Pastoral Planning. Contributions and collections including the Annual Catholic Appeal and diocesan assessments accounted for approximately 34 percent of the total diocesan income of $18,385,055. Contributions and collections decreased 6 percent from the previous year, to $4,149,439, and diocesan assessments were

$2,165,875, a decrease of 13 percent from the 2010 fiscal year. Insurance premiums that the diocese charges various diocesan entities for property and liability coverage, amounted to $2,314,487. Insurance premiums paid to Catholic Mutual Insurance and other commercial carriers for property and liability insurance, for Catholic Umbrella Pool assessments, claims paid under the self-insurance program, and auto and workmen’s compensation insurance amounted to $1,663,414. In 2009 the diocese changed its medical plan from a selfinsured plan to coverage under the RETA Trust, which is a self-insured trust comprised of Catholic dioceses and organizations nationwide with over 40,000 insured lives participating. The plan operates as a fully insured plan and is presented in the financial statements in the same manner as the other

types of insurances carried by the diocese. For the fiscal year ended June 30, 2011 premiums billed under the plan were $7,197,987 and payments to the Trust were $7,202,718. All Diocesan investments are made in accordance with guidelines issued by the USCCB and they are subject to an independent scanning process semiannually by Aquinas Associates to insure compliance with these guidelines. For the year ended June 30, 2011, net investment gain including realized and unrealized gains and losses on securities was $1,274,248 which is fairly reflective of overall market trends. Expenses for seminarians totaled $259,848, and include expenses for tuition and subsistence for current seminarians and payment of educational loans for seminary graduates who are active priests in the diocese. Payments to aid in the support of retired

and infirm priests were $262,570. These costs are offset partially by the Easter Sunday collection, which amounted to $193,480. Administration expenses decreased by 5 percent to $1,634,569 consisting primarily of $1,163,459 in direct employee expenses including salaries, payroll taxes, pensions and medical insurance. Direct subsidies to high schools attended by diocesan students were $1,340,300 including the fair market rental value of the facilities. In the fiscal year ended June 30, 2009 the Diocese was required to adopt the Financial Accounting Standards Board Statement 158 which requires full disclosure of post-retirement benefits. The actuarially determined benefit of the Priests’ post-retirement benefits at June 30, 2011 was $4,771,951 and $4,037,418 at June 30, 2010. The combined diocesan financial statements do not reflect the finances of the diocese’s parishes or any of its schools.

Combined Statements of Financial Position June 30, 2011 and 2010 Assets

2011

Cash and Cash Equivalents - Diocesan Corporation Cash and Cash Equivalents - Annual Catholic Appeal Inc.

Total Cash and Cash Equivalents Short-Term Investments Accounts Receivable Current Unconditional Promises to Give Loans Receivable Cash Restricted to Future Programs Mortgage Receivable Beneficial interest in Trusts Long-Term Investments Property and Equipment, Net Total Assets

$ 533,664 593,711 1,127,375 2,748,308 3,607,730 956,095 1,005,189 56,939 79,852 928,454 5,995,740 4,550,322 $ 21,056,004

2010 $ 620,521 184,800 805,321 3,004,224 3,378,221 1,076,352 847,819 58,283 82,637 822,846 5,235,623 4,794,139 $ 20,105,465

Silver & Gold Jubilee Anniversary Mass

Liabilities

2011

Lines of Credit Advances Accounts and Accruals Payable Agency Obligations Grants Payable Split-Interest Liabilities Loans Payable Other Retirement Obligations Total Liabilities

2010

$ 276,868 268,141 520,749 119,370 191,239 2,410,718 4,771,951 8,559,036

$ 276,868 394,054 986,314 193,939 238,136 2,366,735 4,037,418 8,493,464

4,559,898 7,545,302 391,768 12,496,968

4,018,597 7,189,601 403,803 11,612,001

$21,056,004

$ 20,105,465

Net Assets Unrestricted Temporarily Restricted Permanently Restricted Total Net Assets Total Liabilities and Net Assets

Sunday, October 21, 2012 Inviting all couples married 25 & 50 years, also those celebrating any signifcant anniversary year, to participate in and renew your wedding vows in a Pontifical Mass which will be celebrated by Bishop Michael R. Cote at 2:00pm at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich. Light refreshments will be provided in the Cathedral Hall following the Mass. Register through your parish. For information call Susan Williams at 860-889-8346 ext. 283.

Cardinal Dolan @CardinalDolan To know Jesus, to hear Him, to love Him, to trust Him, to obey Him, to share His life in the deepest fiber of our being. This is our goal.

Four County Catholic August 2012

Combined Statements of Activities June 30, 2011 and 2010 Revenues and Support Contributions and Collections Diocesan Tax Insurance Program- Property Insurance Program- Medical Investment Income Net Realized and Unrealized Gains Change in Value of Split-Interest Agreements Loss on Asset Disposition Facility Rental & Other Income Total Revenue and Support

2011 $ 4,149,439 2,165,875 2,314,487 7,197,987 301,102 973,146 -2,271 312 1,284,978 $ 18,385,055

2010 $ 4,425,529 2,491,073 2,395,018 6,800,384 230,414 615,072 34,335 1,200 1,135,624 $18,128,649

FROm ONE gENERATION TO THE NExT.

Expenses Ministries and Programs Retired and Infirm Priests Seminarians High School Subsidies Insurance Program-Property Insurance Program-Medical Administration Fund-Raising Medical Plan Subsidy Interest Uncollectible Support Depreciation Total Expenses Change in Net Assets Post Retirement Benefit Recognition Net Assets Beginning Net Assets Ending

2011 $ 3,459,356 186,746 259,848 1,340,300 1,663,414 7,202,718 1,634,569 473,438 127,775 267,302 16,615,466

2010 $ 3,213,743 286,488 181,409 1,220,200 1,952,274 6,766,139 1,718,025 446,424 129,753 100,000 285,508 16,299,963

1,769,589

1,828,686

(884,622) 11,612,001

(2,851,235) 12,634,550

$ 12,496,968

$ 11,612,001

NORWICH DIOCESAN COUNCIL OF CATHOLIC WOMEN

57th Annual Convention

Campaign for Human Dignity Love In Action Saturday, September 15, 2012 • 9:00 AM St. John the Evangelist Parish 22 Maple Avenue, Uncasville, CT 06382 Guest Speaker: Maribeth Stewart, Vice President North America, World Union of Catholic Women’s Organizations (WUCWO)

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Keynote Address: Anna DiBiasi, Director of Education & Development, Outreach to Haiti, Diocese of Norwich Celebration of Liturgy: Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich

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Con-celebrants: Rev. Charles LeBlanc, NDCCW Spiritual Advisor, Reverend Robert Buongirno, District CCW Spiritual Advisors

Crafts from Haiti will be available for purchase! Please detach & mail registration with check made out to NDCCW to:

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Registration: $25 (includes lunch & materials) Booklet Sponsor: $2.00 Individual $5.00 Parish Affiliate Name: Phone Number:

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Registration Deadline: September 1, 2012

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Parish: District: Please bring canned soup to be donated to St. Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen.

Four County Catholic August 2012

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STONINGTON – The annual celebration of Our Lady of Fatima took place at St. Mary’s Church in Stonington Borough on June 2 and 3. The weekend’s activities began at 7:30 p.m. on Saturday at St. Mary’s, with a Mass celebrated by the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich. Following the Saturday Mass, a candlelit procession through the streets of the borough coneyed Our Lady back to the Church Hall followed by entertainment, Portuguese foods and beverages. On Sunday morning, Mass was celebrated at 10:30 a.m. by Monsignor Richard P. LaRocque, after which a procession assembled and marched through the Borough streets. Photo by Meredith Morrison.

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

N.Y. Pilgrimage to St. Kateri Tekakwitha and St. Marianne Cope

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October 9 12, 2012 Br. Richard Cote, OMI Daily Mass, devotions, tour of Martyrs' Shrine, Auriesville. Cost $348 p.p. Single $398.

“Silence is God’s First Language” St. Ignatius of Antioch A retreat of silence, solitude and community, using the centering prayer experience, led by Fr. Bill Sheehan, OMI. August 23 29. Familiarity with Centering Prayer is recommended. Cost is $450 p.p.

To register or for more information: Phone: 860-423-8484 www.immaculataretreat.org

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Wednesday, September 19, 2012 Play on one of the PREMIER COURSES IN NEW ENGLAND & Help Catholic Charities help others in need. For more information or to register, contact: Marek Kukulka at (860) 889-8346 x267 marekkukulka@ccfsn.org This ad space donated by ShopRite, the tournament’s leading sponsor and generous supporter of the good works of Catholic Charities in the Norwich and New London communities. Additional sponsorship by Conway & Londregan, P.C.

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Four County Catholic August 2012

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Four County Catholic August 2012

We All Have Our “Ninevehs” During my summer vacation this year, I took some time to revisit a couple of old and dear By Mary Tunison

friends – one was human, the other was not. In the early 1990’s, I lived in Lancaster County, PA. It was a magical time in my life. I had the opportunity to fulfill two dreams at once -- combining both my faith and love of acting at Sight and Sound Theatre, which produced biblically-based live stage performances. It seemed long overdue that I reconnect with that “old friend,” as well as with Michele, another very dear friend and fellow actress “back in the day”. It was a very grace-filled time which brought blessing, comfort and resolve to my life. The theatre, which had burned down in 1997, several years after I had moved on, had been magnificently rebuilt with many new and awesome design enhancements. It sat regally on the hilltop, in the same place the original had once stood. Next door, in the field just below the theatre property, was the inn where I was staying. As it loomed from above, I sat in the theatre’s shadow each evening by a tranquil pond, gazing up with longing eyes. An array of bittersweet memories and feelings welled up from deep within. I thought of all that had transpired in the almost two decades since I had moved on -- family members

who had passed on, rough roads travelled, goals achieved, dreams lost, dreams found. . .it all meshed into one. That season in my life encapsulated one of the happiest times in my life. Hoping to recapture some of the joy of a former time, I contemplated, “Could I ever go back?” These past few years, the Lord has called me to a work which, though I know in my heart is where I am meant to be right now, does not evoke the same joy as those theatre days. Paradoxically, it actually brings out all the things that I know need change or improvement in myself as well as all the talents and proficiencies I never knew I had or never would have chosen to develop on my own -- and God is choosing to use all of it to make a difference in the lives of others. It reminds me of something I once heard someone say, “The biggest trial or weakness that we struggle with to overcome may be the very thing that God is planning to use in us, once we have transformed it into good, to help others; whether it is mercy, compassion, forgiveness or understanding of another’s faults or weaknesses. True, there are times when I

Saint Joseph Living Center Receives Award Saint Joseph Living Center, Windham CT was recently awarded the “Community Leadership Award” from EASTCONN Adult Services. Lynn Iverson, Administrator of the Living Center, accepted the award at their commencement ceremony held on June 5, 2012 at Windham High School. The award is in recognition of Saint Joseph Living Center and their providing adults with opportunities for advancement. EASTCONN and Saint Joseph Living Center have collaborated on many projects, including numerous training sessions for employees, summer work internship programs for students, as well as a new initiative as a vocational training site for students.

have felt like jumping the fence and hightailing for the hills, escaping the often uncomfortable thorns sometimes found in God’s direction to a place of joy and satisfaction -- where I could use the talents and skills of my own choosing. Yet there comes a time in one’s life when one instinctively

knows one must journey paths not always of one’s choosing. Having impetuously run from more than one unpleasant experience in my life, I have come to know that moving in the opposite direction of where God is pointing, usually ends in even greater unhappiness in the long run. While meandering through a gift shop during my stay, a pillow caught my eye, imprinted with

the phrase, “Life is not about trying to avoid the storms in life; it’s about learning how to dance in the rain.” This thought provoking phrase beautifully reinforced the message of the Sight and Sound production Jonah, which I had planned to see later that week. Hmmm. . .the Holy Spirit beginning to work? The play recounted the biblical story of a man named Jonah, instructed by God to preach repentance to the people of Nineveh. Nineveh was infamous for its wickedness and, as capital of the Assyrian empire, was one of Israel’s worst enemies. Jonah, upended by the thought of such a mission, ran from God. At Joppa seaport, he hopped on a ship bound for Tarshish, the completely opposite direction of Nineveh! In response, God sent a fierce storm, threatening the ship and its crew. Long story short, Jonah ended up being cast into the sea, spending three days in the belly of a whale. Jonah repented of his disobedience and God rescued him. Finally, he went to Nineveh, preaching repentance and proclaiming that their city would be

destroyed in 40 days. Much to his surprise, the Ninevites accepted his message and repented. God had compassion on them and did not destroy their city. Angry that Israel’s enemies were spared, Jonah’s rebellious side once again flared up but God continued to show mercy toward Jonah, providing a sheltering vine from the hot sun. When it was eaten by a worm the next day, Jonah again complained. God chided him for being concerned about the vine but not about Nineveh. In the end, Jonah gained much insight about God’s mercy and forgiveness as well as the importance of obedience – a timeless and relevant message even today. During the show’s finale, the cast of Jonah sang, “We all have our Ninevehs.” Suddenly, it all clicked. My “Nineveh” immediately came to mind and I realized God was very much there in my own life – just as He was with Jonah -- reminding me of His presence, His direction, and his mercy. Mary Tunison works for Catholic Charities, Archdiocese of Hartford, and is a freelance writer, photographer, artist, and graphic designer.

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Four County Catholic August 2012

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Movie Review: Restless Heart St. Augustine Larger than Life in Restless Heart SAN FRANCISCO, June 20, 2012 – St. Augustine of Hippo is one of the Christian world’s most By Ignatius Press

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beloved and well-known saints. However, his amazing conversion and heroic life have not been told on the big screen … until now. Ignatius Press announces the forthcoming release of RESTLESS HEART: The Confessions of Augustine. “We are thrilled to bring RESTLESS HEART to the big screen,” said Ignatius Press President Mark Brumley. “St. Augustine is one of the first Doctors of

the Church, along with St. Ambrose, St. Jerome and St. Gregory the Great – named in 1268 by Pope Boniface VIII. His story is inspiring and compelling, and his writings are among the most respected in the world even today. “RESTLESS HEART is amazing,” he added. “It is the most moving story of conversion and reconciliation ever brought to the big screen, and Ignatius Press is honored to offer this film to America.” “RESTLESS HEART offers a soul-stirring portrait of a great sinner who became one of the

Church’s greatest saints,” said National Catholic Register writer Tim Drake. “It’s a timeless conversion story for our age – a testament to the power of Truth.” “RESTLESS HEART tells St. Augustine’s story with superb production values, and it features an outstanding cast,” Brumley added. “We look forward to working with parishes, other organizations, and individuals across the country to bring St. Augustine’s life to as many people as possible. This is a tremendous opportunity to launch the Year of Faith and engage in the New Evangelization.”

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Four County Catholic August 2012

Archdiocese of Denver Reaches out to the Victims of the Aurora Shooting Tragedy Ready for College, Ready for Life

AURORA, CO (Catholic Online) - Archbishop Samuel Aquila and his auxiliary, Bishop James Conley, released the following statement at first word of the tragedy at the movie theater in Aurora:: “We are shocked and saddened by this tragedy. Our hearts and prayers go out to those impacted by this evil act. As Catholic bishops, we “weep with those who weep.” In Aurora, which means “the dawn,” whose name evokes the light, people of hope know that the darkness may be overcome. For those who were killed, our hope is the tender mercy of our God. “Neither death nor life,” reflected St. Paul, “can separate us from the love of God.” We commend their souls, and their families and friends, to God’s enduring love. For those who were woundedphysically, emotionally and spiritually, our hope is in their recovery and renewal. To them we offer our prayers, our ears to listen, and our hearts to love. The road to recovery may be long, but in hope we are granted the gift of new life.

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:

We hope also for the perpetrator of this terrible crime, and we pray for his conversion. Evil ruled his heart that night. Only Jesus Christ can overcome the darkness of such evil. We hope that all of us may find the peace which surpasses understanding. The Archdiocese of Denver stands ready to assist the victims of this tragedy, and our community. Regina Caeli Counseling Services of Catholic Charities will offer counseling over the next few weeks to those who need it. We look for opportunities to pray with our community. And we continue to work to support families and communities in forming people of peace.”

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Four County Catholic August 2012

Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen Advances on Path to Sainthood! Cause of Canonization moves forward with papal decree of Venerable PEORIA, Ill., June 28, 2012 – During a private audience today with Cardinal Angelo Amato, S.D.B., prefect of the Congregation for the Causes of Saints, Pope Benedict XVI promulgated a decree affirming the heroic virtues of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen. This declaration carries with it the title of “Venerable” for one of America’s most celebrated and impactful evangelists in the history of the Catholic Church.

This is a monumental second step in the process of the advancement of Sheen’s Cause of Canonization for sainthood. Blessed Pope John Paul II declared him Servant of God following initiation of the Cause for Canonization in 2002. “This is a great day for the Catholic Diocese of Peoria and the Catholic Church in America,” said Most Rev. Daniel R. Jenky, Bishop of Peoria, Ill.

Why Should You Choose A Catholic Cemetery? The Code of Canon Law of the Catholic Church defines only two places as being sacred: the Church building where Jesus resides in the tabernacle; and the Catholic Cemetery which is an expression of faith and an extension of the parish community. Catholic Cemeteries are both a consolation to the bereaved and an inspiration to the living.

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“Today, more than ever, the Church in America needs heroes to inspire us to stand up and to fall to our knees. I think in a special way, Venerable Fulton Sheen can be an inspiration and a consolation to our bishops and other Church leaders. He was a man of courage, and priest of prayer.” “As head of the Propagation of the Faith from 1950 to 1966, the Venerable Fulton Sheen was heroic in spreading the Gospel of Jesus Christ far and wide – from Peoria to Pretoria; New York to New Delhi. He teaches us still

that the Church is missionary by her very nature,” said Very Rev. Andrew Small, O.M.I., National Director of the Pontifical Mission Societies. The Diocesan investigation included research and evidence gathering related to his life of holiness and claims of miracles attributed to Archbishop Sheen in order to advance the cause thus declaring him Venerable. Verification of one miracle is a requirement for Beatification, the next step in the Canonization process. Verification of a second miracle is necessary for Sainthood.

About the Archbishop Fulton Sheen Foundation The Archbishop Fulton John Sheen Foundation works to make known the life, works and teachings of Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, to bring people to Christ through Archbishop Sheen, and to advance the Cause for the Canonization of Archbishop Sheen in the Catholic Church, according to the process prescribed in the Code of Canon Law under the supervision of the bishop of the Diocese of Peoria, Ill.

Defending Religious Liberty In mid-July, Wheaton College, the leading evangelical liberal arts institution, filed a lawsuit in partnership with Catholic University of America opposing the federal healthcare mandate. This alliance marks the first-

ever partnership between Catholic and evangelical institutions to oppose the same regulation in the same court. If you haven’t already, please contact the offices of your Congressional

Representatives and United States Senators to express your opposition to the federal healthcare mandate. For addresses and phones numbers, please visit: www.ctcatholic.org or www.norwichdiocese.org.

The Honorable John Larson 221 Main Street, 2nd Floor Hartford, CT 06106 Phone: (860) 278-8888 Fax: (860) 278-2111

The Honorable Rosa DeLauro 59 Elm Street New Haven, CT 06510 Phone: (203) 562-3718 Fax: (201) 772-2260

The Honorable Christopher Murphy 114 West Main Street, Suite 206 New Britain, CT 06051 Phone: (860) 223-8412 Fax: (860) 827-9009

The Honorable Joseph Courtney 101 Water Street, Suite 301 Norwich, CT 06360 Phone: (860)886-0139 Fax: (860) 886-2974

The Honorable Jim Himes 211 State Street, 2nd Floor Bridgeport, CT 06604 Phone: (866) 453-0028 Fax: (203) 333-6655

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ALL HALLOWS CEMETERY Green Hallow Road, Moosup • 860-887-1019

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U.S. Senate The Honorable Joseph Lieberman One Constitution Plaza, 7th Floor Hartford, CT 06103 Voice: 860.549.8463 (Voice) Phone: 800.225.5605 (In CT) Fax: 866.317.2242

The Honorable Richard Blumenthal 90 State House Square, 10th Floor Hartford, CT, 06103 Phone: (860) 258-6940 Fax: (860) 258-6958

Four County Catholic August 2012

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The Haitian Health Foundation Clinic in Jeremie, Haiti, May 2012 For over 20 years, the Youth Group and the parish family at St. Submitted by Marilyn Lowney

Andrews Church in Colchester

have sponsored the salaries of Haitian nurses at the Haitian Health Foundation clinic, which serves over 230,000 of the poorest people in rural southwestern Haiti.

The parish and youth group gift of $23,000 will pay the salaries of seven nurses for one year. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Mesiâ&#x20AC;? St. Andrews, for saving lives of the very poorest of the poor!

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St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich 860-889-4174 www.stpatscathedralschool.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 School, Middletown 860-347-3202 www.stjohnschoolmiddletown.org St. John School, Old Saybrook 860-388-0849 www.saintjohnschoolos.com St. Joseph School, Baltic 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org

First Row: Sister Mary Patrick, SCMC, Principal, Amy Roberts, Michayla Campbell, Adam Roberts, Harry Holte; Second Row: Rev. Joseph Tito, Pastor, Genevieve Roy, Bethany Cataldo, Jacob Campbell, Katyana Howlett, Mrs. Andrea Auer, Eighth Grade Advisor.

St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.com St. Joseph School, New London 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com St. Joseph School, Rockville 860-875-4943 www.saintjosephvernon.org St. Mary School, Middletown 860-347-2978 www.stmarymiddletown.com St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org

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28: 19, 20) This quote from the Gospel of St. Matthew serves as the foundation and

the primary reason for the existence of St. Joseph Elementary School, located in the village of Baltic, in the town of Sprague on School Hill Road. For 138 years, St. Joseph School has been offering quality Catholic education to the families of the villages of Baltic, Hanover, and Ver-

sailles, as well as those from surrounding communities in southeastern Connecticut. As a visitor walks through its doors, he or she, is immediately greeted warmly by students and/or staff members. There is a strong sense of close-knit family that welcomes all who enter.

The parish of Saint Mary of the Immaculate Conception Church was founded in Baltic in 1869. The parishioners immediately expressed their desire for a parochial school in the parish that would serve the needs of their children. RevSt. Joseph School Continued on page 25

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

Four County Catholic August 2012

St. Joseph School

Continued from page 24

erend J.C. Van Laar, who was then pastor, became acquainted with the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady, Mother of Mercy, while in Holland. He asked their founder, Bishop John Zwijsen, Archbishop of Utrecht, to provide his parish with some teaching sisters. The Bishop agreed, and six sisters arrived in Baltic on October 7, 1874. St. Joseph School was opened eight days later on October 15th. Classes were first held in the convent where the sisters opened a high school, The Academy of the Holy Family, at the same time. It then moved to an old public school building for a short time, and then back to the convent. A few years later, the grammar school moved to a small school house high on the hill above the convent, in what was an orchard on the sisters’ property. In 1910, the school moved once again into two buildings situated on the property that now houses the present school. A number of years later, it was relocated to a building, formerly the Baltic Hotel, owned by the Sisters, and called “Little Flower Hall”. Here it remained, until 1950, when the present school was built, blessed and dedicated by Bishop Henry J. O’Brien, Bishop of Hartford. In June, 1970, the Sisters of Charity of Our Lady Mother of Mercy became an American Congregation under their present title, Sisters of Charity, of Our Lady, Mother of the Church. They continue to minister to the children and families of St. Joseph School to this day. St. Joseph School offers quality Catholic education for children in grades pre-kindergarten through grade eight. “The Sisters of Charity, along with dedicated lay teachers and staff, provide a strong religious and academic foundation for all students, on all grade levels,

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while striving to develop self-respect, growth in self-discipline and service to others in a safe and nurturing environment.” (taken from the school’s mission statement) Small and secure classroom settings allow teachers to accommodate all learning styles and to assure that all students who matriculate here receive the best education possible. The entire faculty, religious and lay, are committed to Catholic education. In addition to providing the children with a sound academic education, they also guide and foster their spiritual, moral, social, and emotional wellbeing based on the teachings of Jesus. The curriculum, following Diocesan standards and state requirements, provides the students with a challenging academic program of study. All of the core subjects are offered- Religion, Mathematics, Science, Social Studies Reading/Literature, Language Arts/English, as well as Art, Music, Integrated Technology, and Physical Education. Choir is also offered for students in grades three through eight, and Student Coun-

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discipline in achieving personal goals. In a heartwarming and sincere video that can be watched on the school website, www.stjosephbaltic.org, (click on the link) Mother Mary Patrick, SCMC, principal of the school, comments,” We are a family here and our faith is really the basis for everything we do here at school. We don’t have the mission state-

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ment on the wall for decoration. It is to live by.” She continues, “It’s the spirit - the Catholic Christian spirit is what makes us special here. I have heard this said several times, ‘What is it about your school when I walk in, there is something very special.’…and that is what it is. I love it here”. For more information about St. Joseph School, visit their website or call the school at 860.822.6141.

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cil for those in grades six, seven, and eight. In keeping up with the ongoing advancements in utilizing technology in the classroom, this fall, thanks to grant monies, St. Joseph’s will be adding iPads for student use in grades six through eight. All of the classrooms are now equipped with white boards and projectors as well. The school also offers the Future Musicians Incorporated (FMI) instrumental program which provides students with the opportunity to learn to play a musical instrument during school hours, participate in a school band, and in concerts both at St. Joseph’s and in regional and state programs. Before school care is offered daily from 7:30-8:15, and after care from 2:45-5:15. Extracurricular activities include a Spanish Club, Basketball Club, and a Cup Stacking Club. Cup stacking is both an individual and a team sport where children as young as second and third graders, learn to quickly stack and unstack 12 plastic cups in specific sequences. In addition to being just plain fun, cup stacking reinforces the value of teamwork, and the importance of practice and

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Road-Trip Reflections on Faith & Mobility I write this from the road, winding through pines and rolling by silos as Highway 94 By Christina Capecchi Four County Catholic Contributor

cuts across Wisconsin. This is my third road trip in less than a month – a vacation, a wedding, a conference. I would be highway weary except these hills are so green and the sky, a marble band of periwinkle and white; the day is stretching out as wide as the road. Time to “dwell in possibility,” as Emily Dickinson wrote, to untether from deadlines and landlines and float in the space be-

tween Point A and Point B. The highway remains a hallmark of the pre-parenthood 20’s: We are exceedingly mobile. Researchers call us “t r a n s i e n t ,” which sounds like we sleep under bridges. We church hop, we couch surf, we can’t be counted on to donate or subscribe or even show up, they say. We go through an average of seven jobs over the course of our 20’s. One third of us

Angels draft former St. Bernard pitcher Former St. Bernard School pitcher Pat Lowery was recently selected in the 21st round of the Major League Baseball amateur draft by the Los Angeles Angels. “I was surprised because I was out to lunch with my family when I got the news,” Lowery said. “It’s really awesome. It’s a really surreal feeling because (this) is exactly what I’ve wanted to do since I was 8 years old, is play professional baseball. It’s an awesome day for me.” Lowery graduated from Columbia in May. The 6foot-5 pitcher was a FirstTeam All-Ivy League selection after posting a 3-1 record with a 1.80 ERA. The history major was preparing to start filling out employment applications, but instead he will await assignment by the Angels organization. “I’m just looking forward

to going and working hard to set myself apart from other players,” Lowery said. “Everyone is going to have talent at the next level. It is not a question of that, it’s who is willing to put in the time and the effort and really devote themselves to their goal.” He was very pleased to be the 657th overall pick. “(Los Angeles is) a great organization,” he said. “They obviously have a lot of talent at the major league level. They have some great West Coast affiliates and they do a good job of developing young players in their farm system, moving them up the ladder. I’m looking forward to that.” Lowery was an All-State player in 2007 and 2008 and helped lead St. Bernard to a Class S state title in his junior campaign of 2007. Congratulations to a Saint who became an Angel!

move to a new residence every year. We live out of car trunks and cardboard boxes, suitcases and

laundry baskets, packing and unpacking, hauling and hoping. It’s not that we don’t long for roots, but it takes some time for all the pieces to fit together. My cousin finally found a job that allowed her to buy a house, complete with front porch, peony bush and tire swing, and she is reveling in her first summer there. That is the formidable charge of the 20’s: to discover your place and your purpose. A road trip provides welcome reprieve from that quest. This morning I’m letting my mind zig zag through the white dotted line. I’m taking in the other drivers, imagining who’s going where and why. I’m gazing at fences and farm homes and envisioning the narratives unfolding

inside. Road trips now come with Internet, so I can hop on Wikipedia to satisfy the impulse to brush up on state populations and presid e n t i a l history: 44 presidencies, 43 men, four assassinations,

four natural deaths while in office. These summer trips have been filled with a hundred little d i s c ov e r i e s . Like Ogallala, Neb., a town Dr. Seuss could have named, where the Dairy Queen serves food without a single company logo – blank white paper cups, plain silver foil wrap-

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pers. Then there’s the bridge contractor from Kansas I met at a fly fishing lesson. He protested the rushed pace of high-profile construction, saying, “Quality takes time.” Two days later we white water rafted with a 46-year-old Illinois woman who had traveled to Colorado to meet her biological father, a wiry 72-year-old who had known of her existence but not her gender. Coming home we discovered a 99-year-old antique carousel in Story C i t y , Iowa, an impulsive stop triggered by a highway billboard. In a merry-go-round tucked between the high school and the ball field, painted ponies frolic among hand-carved roosters and pigs. We arrived an hour before opening and were offered a free ride by three men testing the band organ. Last week Pope Benedict XVI spoke of the traveler’s life in an address to airport chaplains, cautioning that “continuous mobility and constant technological development…tend to obscure the centrality of the human person.” He urged the priests to “make sure that every person, of whatever nationality or social background, can find in you a welcoming a heart, able to listen and understand.” That sounds like the mission of any Christian wherever you are, permanent home or six-month lease: to cultivate a welcoming heart. The 20-somethings I know do that well, and road trips help, greasing the hinges of the door to the heart. Christina Capecchi is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, Minn. She can be reached at www.ReadChristina.com.

Four County Catholic August 2012

Mount Saint John Honors Students, Staff and Volunteers Deep River - More than 100 people comprised of students, family members, staff, volunteers and community supporters attended Mount Saint John’s June 12th annual Community Day of Excellence and its Celebration and Awards Ceremony. Each year, Mount Saint John honors select young men, between the ages of 13 and 18 years of age, for their service to others, personal growth, achievement and for overcoming personal barriers to success. The organization also uses the occasion to recognize outstanding staff and volunteers. This year special recognition was given to Jimmy Miller. His philanthropic deeds have grown to include a large network of friends and family, who through his Annual Friends of Jimmy Miller Dinner raises over 150 thousand dollars each year, shar-

ing the proceeds with three agencies dedicated to serving at-risk youth. Mount Saint John is privileged to have been one of those recipients for many years. “This Day of Excellence is a way for us to recognize our young men who have worked very hard acquiring the necessary social, educational and job readiness skills to be successful when they return to community”, explained Doug DeCerbo executive director of Mount Saint John. “This day is also the time for us to thank our professional staff and volunteers for their service and contributions” said DeCerbo. To see the complete list of names of this year’s award recipients and to learn more about Mount Saint John’s residential treatment, educational, life-skill and vocational services for young men and their families, please visit www.mtstjohn.org.

Mount Saint John Executive Director Doug DeCerbo, left, with Bill Guerra, recipient of the volunteer of the year award, Christian D. Mount Saint John student recognized for his service in the community and Jimmy Miller who was honored for his years of philanthropic support.

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Four County Catholic August 2012

Did You Know? Every Sunday Every Sunday of August the Gospel readings are from John, chapter six. Each week Jesus says, “I am the bread of life.” He’s talking about the Eucharist. August 15 Feast day for Mary to celebrate that she is in heaven. Read about heaven in Revelation 4:1-11 August 21 Senior Citizen Day so be especially nice to seniors! Read Proverbs 16:31 and 20:29 about seniors. August 25 Second hand wardrobe day so swap clothes with friends and find ways to recycle clothes. August 26 In 1920 the 19th amendment granting women the right to vote became law. Check out how Jesus treated women in Luke 7:11-17, Luke 13:10-17, Luke 6:16

Olympics & Great Exercises August 12 is the last day of the 2012 Summer Olympics. It’s exciting to see the best athletes in the world compete in many types of sports. It reminds us that exercising and practice are good for our bodies. The Bible talks about exercise and winning a race. The Apostle Paul wrote about keeping an eye on the goal and running to win. Read about that in 1 Corinthians 9:24-27. We also discover something more important than exercising our bodies in a letter Paul wrote. “For physical training is of some value, but godliness has value for all things, holding promise for both the present life and the life to come.” 1 Timothy 4:8. God wants us to practice godliness and that means kindness, generosity, and other virtues. God exercises virtues in Jeremiah 9:24 that states, “I am the Lord, who exercises kindness, justice and righteousness on earth, for in these I delight,” declares the Lord. Work on exercising your body and soul this month and hold your own contests in sports. Have fun with some unusual tests of ability. Try these: • • • • •

Frisbee discus throw Running, swimming, and bicycling races Exercise kindness Measure smiles to see who has the broadest one Hospitality to see how comfortable you can make guests feel • Play fair and be gracious whether you win or lose • Jumping high and far contests • Gymnastic shows

by Karen H Whiting Bible Athletics Word Search Many activities we consider fun sports began long ago as a way of life. Camping in tents was how people lived and not just a fun trip. Circle the words of sports and then look up the Bible references. RACES - John 20:4 ARCHERY - Genesis 21:20 CHARIOT (races) - Nahum 2:4 HUNT - Genesis 27:30 HORSES (races) - Habbakkuk 3:8 SWIMMING - Isaiah 25:11, Acts 27:42-44

FISH - John 21:3-5 ROWING - Ezekiel 27:26 CAMPING - Genesis 33:18 BOATING - Matthew 8:23 CLIMB (trees) - Luke 19:4 (mountains) - Matthew 17:1

Four County Catholic August 2012

50th International Eucharistic Congress Steubenville East Youth Conference

The 50th International Eucharistic Congress was recently held in Dublin, Ireland, from the By Reverend Frank Rouleau

10th to the 17th of June. It was held at the Royal Dublin Society. The Final Mass, Statis Orbis, was held in Croke Park, a soccer stadium, where more than 85,000 people assembled. Many thousands of people from all over the world gathered together daily for prayer, adoration, workshops, presentations, panel discussions, catechesis focused on the Most Holy Eucharist. And each day had celebration of the Mass. There were some 223 keynote speakers, which included personal testimonies, homilies given by a variety of cardinals, archbishops and bishops, and workshops. Some of the activities were directed specifically toward young people. Time was available for adoration of the Most Blessed Sacrament in a large prayer space as well as the opportunity to receive the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The overall theme of the Congress was “Communion with Christ and with One Another”. There were sub themes to this on

a daily basis, for example on Monday the theme was “Communion in One Baptism.” Tuesday and the subsequent days saw the themes change to “Communion in Marriage and Family,” ‘Priesthood and Ministry in the Service of Communion,” “Reconciliation in Our Communion,” “Communion in Suffering and Healing” and finally on Saturday “Communion in the World through Mary.” People came from all over the world: Europe, North and South America, the Caribbean, Africa, Taiwan, Hong Kong, Korea, Australia, etc. Ireland is very green because it gets lots of rain. We had some rain almost every day at the

Eucharistic Congress, but no complaints were heard. It was wonderful seeing people of so many languages and cultures all come together focused on giving honor and glory to God through the most precious gift of the Eucharist that we received at the Last Supper. The International Eucharistic Congress is held every four years in a place designated by the Pope. There is a lot of time spent in preparation by the host country Catholic Community to receive pilgrims from all over the world. Our Holy Father, Benedict XVI, has selected Sebu City, Philippines as the site of the next Congress in 2016.

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Kingston, RI, July 20-22 - The Diocese of Norwich sent 46 attendees from 12 parishes to the Steubenville East Youth Conference at the University of Rhode Island. The weekends activities began with Mass on Friday at St. Patrick’s Cathedral celebrated by Bishop Cote. After getting to know each other at lunch, we then traveled to URI and spent the next three days listening to great speakers, excellent music, participating in Eucharistic Adoration, attending Mass, praying together, and enjoying the opportunity to meet 2,700 other high school teens who share our same faith. It was truly a joyful and grace-filled weekend. We would like to thank those who contirubted to the Annual Catholic Appeal for helping to fund this trip and Bishop Cote for supporting the youth of the Diocese of Norwich and helping us grow in our faith. If you would like to see more photo’s from the weekend, please visit the Diocese of Norwich Youth Events Facebook page. We have already begun planning a return trip to Steubenville East in 2013. If you would like to get on our email list for information contact Jim Tabor at StJosephChesterYM@gmail.com or visit the Steubenville East table at the Diocese of Norwich Youth Explosion that will take place on September 23rd at St. Bernard High School. Submitted by Pam Plasse

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Four County Catholic August 2012

Pope’s Olympic Message Credits the Power of Sports VATICAN CITY—Pope Benedict XVI says he is praying that the London Olympics promote By NICOLE WINFIELD The Associated Press

world peace and friendship—a message the Vatican is increasingly emphasizing as it focuses renewed attention on the positive role that sports can play in society. But while the message Sunday may be new, sports have long been a mainstay for the Vatican. The first soccer game was played in the Apostolic Palace in 1521 and

every year the Swiss Guards face off against the staff of the Vatican Museums in a tournament. Of course the prospects of the world's tiniest sovereign state actually fielding an Olympic squad are slim. "Sports have always been appreciated in the Christian tradition," said Giovanni Maria Vian, editor of the Vatican newspaper L'Osservatore Romano, which has given ample space to Benedict's renewed message about the good that sports can bring to society. He said competitive spirit,

physical fitness and personal achievement are all "positive values" that the church has empha-

sized from its beginning. Just last month, the Vatican's culture office opened a new "Culture and Sport" department.

"Sports has to find its cultural aspect again, its profound spirit, and again be the educational reference point for young people," the Vatican's sports czar, Cardinal Gianfranco Ravasi, said at the launch of the new office, which has a counterpart in the Vatican department for laity. Benedict himself launched the London-based John Paul II Foundation for Sport during his 2010 visit to Britain, creating a charity that aims to "build spiritual character through excellence in sporting skills and fitness." When the

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CEO of the charity, Monsignor Vladimir Felzman, formally introduced it a year later, he delivered his speech on the interconnectedness of physical, intellectual, emotional and spiritual growth while doing 75 pushups. "If you work at things, you gradually acquire," Felzman said of his own improved fitness. "Virtues are the same. You start by being impatient, but you learn patience." The 85-year-old pope is more scholar than sportsman, but he is keen to pass the message along. Said Pope Benedict, "The Olympics are the greatest sporting event in the world, where athletes from any countries participate, giving it a strong symbolic value." He said he was praying that, in the spirit of the U.N. call for a truce in all countries during the July 27-Aug. 12 games, the "good will generated by this international sporting event may bear fruit, promoting peace and reconciliation throughout the world."

Four County Catholic August 2012

Poles Honor Reagan, John Paul II with New Statue GDANSK, Poland - Polish officials unveiled a statue of former President Ronald Reagan and By Vanessa Gera The Associated Press

Pope John Paul II on Saturday, July 14, 2012, honoring two men widely credited in this Eastern European country with helping to topple communism 23 years ago. The statue was unveiled in Gdansk, the birthplace of Lech Walesa's Solidarity movement, in the presence of about 120 former Solidarity activists, many of whom were imprisoned in the 1980s for their roles in organizing or taking part in strikes against the communist regime. The bronze statue, erected in the lush seaside President Ronald Reagan Park, is a slightly largerthan-life rendering of the two late leaders. It was inspired by an Associated Press photograph taken in 1987 on John Paul's second pontifical visit to the U.S. The photographer who took the picture, Scott Stewart, expressed satisfaction that one of his pictures has helped immortalize "a wonderful moment in time between the two men." "In the news business we're used to having a moment and then that moment being gone a day later. This is one image that should last for a good long time," Stewart, who now teaches graphic design and photography at Greenville Technical College in South Carolina, said in a phone interview a day before the ceremony. "I'm happy that it's been chosen as the seminal moment to represent the relationship of these two people to Poland." Reagan and John Paul shared a conviction that communism was a moral evil, not just a bad economic system. And Lech Walesa, founder of the Solidarity movement that led the anti-communist struggle in Poland, has often paid homage to both men and told the AP in a recent interview that he deeply respected Reagan. "Reagan should have a monument in every city," Walesa said. Poles widely credit the Polishborn pontiff's first visit to his homeland after becoming pope as

the inspiration for Solidarity's birth. During a Mass in Warsaw in 1979, he used subtle language to suggest that Poles should try to change their system, a message not lost on the receptive nation. Poles also remember that when the communist regime imposed the martial law crackdown in 1981, rounding up dissidents and imprisoning them, Reagan lit candles at the White House to show his solidarity with the Polish people. "When Reagan lit the candles, we knew we had a friend in the United States," said Czeslaw Nowak, a former Solidarity activist who was imprisoned for his activism in the 1980s. He leads an organization of former imprisoned dissidents that worked for about four years to raise 200,000 zlotys ($59,000) for the statue. The money was collected from former Solidarity members, many of whom are today living on small pensions and could only afford the smallest of donations. Another member of the organization, Andrzej Michalowski, credited Reagan's arms race with Moscow with leading to the unraveling of the Soviet Union and its inability to keep controlling Eastern Europe. He said the monument was designed on a small scale so visitors to the park would feel John Paul and Reagan are still with them.

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