FOUR COUNTY
CATHOLIC
Volume 32 • Number 1 • JANUARY 2020 SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY
Come and Adore the Lord, For a Great Light Has Come Upon the Earth
St. Michael Church Reopens Their Doors
JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
ESTABLISHED IN 1989 AND PUBLISHED EACH MONTH EXCEPT JULY. PUBLISHER
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Made Possible in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal
t. Michael Church in Pawcatuck will hold a Mass of Dedication on Saturday, January 18, 2020, at 10 am. to celebrate the completion of the church’s extensive rebuilding project. The ceremony will begin outside the church. There is no opportunity to find a seat before the start of the Mass. Visitors will enter the church together when the doors are unlocked; the process will require patience while people enter and are seated. After the dedication, the church will remain open throughout the day until 8 pm., providing everyone an opportunity to experience the new church on the first day. Confessions will be heard that afternoon from 3 to 3:45 p.m. and the regular Mass on Saturday will be celebrated at 4 pm.
Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishop of Norwich EDITORIAL OFFICE
25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613 Wayne Gignac, 860.886.1281
wgignac@norwichdiocese.net
ADVERTISING SALES/PRODUCTION MANAGER
Meredith Vernott, 860.887.3933 c ommeredith@norwichdiocese.net SENIOR WRITER/SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Ryan Blessing, 860.887.3933 rblessing@norwichdiocese.net THEOLOGICAL ADVISOR
Very Reverend Ted F. Tumicki, S.T.L., J.C.L., J.V. 860.887.9294 PRINTING/LAYOUT
The Hartford Courant, 285 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 060115 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING DEADLINES
The deadline for advertising and editorial is the first Monday of the previous month. Articles limited to 500-word max; letters to the editor limited to 200-word max and must include name, address and phone number for verification. Email photos as JPEG attachments and MS Word copy to editorial@norwichdiocese.net. Publication not guaranteed. The Editor reserves the right to reject, omit or edit all editorial and advertising copy. Published opinions and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of this newspaper. POSTMASTER - SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Four County Catholic, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613. Four County Catholic Issue 10 November (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613. Periodicals postage paid in Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional mailing offices.
Discover more at
NorwichDiocese.org © Copyright 2020, Diocese of Norwich. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without expressed consent. Periodical Postage paid at Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional offices.
Podemos ayudar
To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance for victims, please call: The Diocesan Reporting Line @ 1-800-624-7407 Incidents involving abuse of vulnerable adults aged 18-59 should be reported to: Connecticut Department of Developmental Services - AID Division for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 1-844-878-8923
Fax 860.859.1253
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR
We Can Help
If the incident involves a minor (persons under the age of 18), you must also call: State of CT Department of Children and Families Care Line 1-800-842-2288 -OR –State of NY Child Protective Services 1-800-635-1522
860.887.9294
Incidents involving abuse of vulnerable adults aged 60 and over should be reported to: Connecticut Department of Social Services for the Elderly 1-888-385-4225
Para reportar contacto inapropiado de cualquier tipo por medio de un representante de la Diócesis de Norwich o para asistencia a víctimas, por favor llame a La Línea de Reportaje de la Diócesis de Norwich 1-800-624-7407 Si el incidente involucra a un menor (personas menores de 18 años), también debe llamar a Departamento de Niños y Familias de CT 1-800-842-2288 -O-Servicios de Protección de Niños del Estado de NY 1-800-635-1522.
Incidentes relacionados con el abuso de adultos vulnerables de 18-59 años de edad deben ser reportados a Departamento de Servicios al Desarrollo del Estado de Connecticut-División de Ayuda para Personas con Incapacidad Intelectual 1-844-878-8923.
Incidentes relacionados con el abuso de adultos vulnerables de 60 años de edad o más deben ser reportados a Departamento de Servicios Sociales Para Ancianos de Connecticut 1-888-385-4225.
THE MOST REVEREND
MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.
BISHOP OF NORWICH
LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY Overcoming a Weary World My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, “A Thrill of Hope, the Weary World Rejoices.” These words, which graced last month’s cover of the Four County Catholic, speak to a hope that flows from within us centered on principles of faith larger than ourselves. Based on what we see on TV, hear on the radio and read in the newspapers, our world, our country, and in some cases even our families seem more divided than at any other time in recent history. Because of this we may be inclined to think that this current moment in time is the weariest the world has ever been. As we welcome the new year, may we not be tempted to focus on the disenchantment in the world, but instead may we work to find the hope in any given situation. Hope is in fact all around us. We need only see with the eyes of the Savior who loves us. On a recent airing of the CBS news program, Face the Nation, two United States senators, Delaware Democrat Chris Coons and Oklahoma Republican James Lankford, spoke about a 60-year Senate tradition –– a weekly prayer group. Hope is apparent when this bipartisan body of men and women meet every Wednesday
morning to pray, sing hymns, and reflect on their similarities rather than their differences. This in a city whose political discord plays out every day.
professing it. As Senator Lankford so boldly put it- “if your faith only affects your weekends, then it is not faith, it is a hobby.”
So how do we find similarities in our dealings with people? A few months ago, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops launched a yearlong initiative that invites Catholics to model civility, love for neighbor and respectful dialogue. The initiative, called Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debate, is built on the recognition that every person — even those with whom we disagree — is a beloved child of God possessing inherent dignity.
Please know that you are not alone in your hope. As the Holy Father instructs us, “No matter where God has planted you, hope. Always hope.”
We, as followers of Christ, are called to live the example of Jesus daily, including our encounters with one another through civil dialogue. These engagements can be online, in the workplace, or even at our own dining room tables. If you are interested, more information and resources on the Civilize It program can be found on our diocesan website, throughout this election year.
I encourage you to find ways to express this hope. Share in the blessings of the Eucharist by spending time in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. Feel the strength of His support and warmth of His love. Share at least one of the gifts God has given you and volunteer in a parish ministry. Spend more time with your families. Reconcile yourself to God by partaking in the Sacrament of Reconciliation. Love people who others may find unlovable. It is my hope that you make this the year that you will take a step closer to Jesus. Sincerely yours in Christ’s love,
Both senators agreed that the challenge, as persons of faith, is to live our faith, in the workplace, in our homes and in social gatherings. The solution is to be in communion with God through prayer and living our faith, not simply
Michael R. Cote
Bishop of Norwich
JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
“They that hope in the LORD will renew their strength, they will soar on eagles’ wings; They will run and not grow weary, walk and not grow faint.” Isaiah 40:31
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THE MOST REVEREND
MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.
BISHOP OF NORWICH
LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY Superando un mundo cansado
JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
Los que confían en el SEÑOR renovarán sus fuerzas, volarán con alas como de águilas; Correrán y no se cansarán, caminarán y no se desmayarán ”. Isaías 40:31
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"Una sensación de esperanza, el mundo abatido regocija". Estas palabras, que aparecieron en la portada del mes pasado del periódico católico Four County Catholic, nos habla de una esperanza que fluye desde nuestro interior centrada en principios de fe más grandes que nosotros. Según lo que vemos en la televisión, escuchamos en la radio y leemos en los periódicos, nuestro mundo, nuestro país y, en algunos casos, incluso nuestras familias parecen estar más divididas que en cualquier otro momento de la historia. Debido a esto, podemos sentirnos inclinados a pensar que este momento actual en el tiempo es el más agotador que el mundo haya tenido. Al dar la bienvenida al nuevo año, que no nos veamos tentados a centrarnos en el desencanto en el mundo, sino que podamos trabajar para encontrar la esperanza en cualquier situación dada. De hecho, la esperanza nos rodea. Solo necesitamos ver con los ojos del Salvador que nos ama. En una emisión reciente del programa de noticias de la CBS, Face the Nation, dos senadores de los Estados Unidos, el demócrata de Delaware Chris Coons y el republicano de Oklahoma James Lankford, hablaron sobre una tradición del Senado de 60 años, un grupo de oración semanal. La esperanza es evidente cuando este grupo bipartidista de hombres y mujeres se reúne todos los miércoles por la mañana para rezar, cantar himnos y reflexionar sobre sus similitudes
en lugar de sus diferencias. Esta en una ciudad cuya discordia política se desarrolla todos los días.
Lankford lo expresó con valentía: "si su fe solo afecta sus fines de semana, entonces no es fe, es un pasatiempo".
Entonces, ¿cómo encontramos similitudes en nuestros tratos con las personas? Hace unos meses, la Conferencia de Obispos Católicos de los Estados Unidos lanzó una iniciativa de un año que invita a los católicos a modelar la civilidad, el amor al prójimo y el diálogo respetuoso. La iniciativa, llamada Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debate, se basa en el reconocimiento de que cada persona, incluso aquellos con quienes no estamos de acuerdo, es un hijo amado de Dios que posee una dignidad inherente.
Por favor, sepa que no está solo en su esperanza. Como el Santo Padre nos instruye: “No importa dónde Dios le haya plantado, espere. Siempre tenga esperanza."
Nosotros, como seguidores de Cristo, estamos llamados a vivir a diario el ejemplo de Jesús, incluidos nuestros encuentros mutuos a través del diálogo civil. Estos compromisos pueden ser en línea, en el lugar de trabajo o incluso en nuestras propias mesas de comedor. Si está interesado, puede encontrar más información y recursos sobre el programa Civilize It en nuestro sitio web diocesano, durante todo este año electoral. Ambos senadores acordaron que el desafío, como personas de fe, es vivir nuestra fe, en el lugar de trabajo, en nuestros hogares y en las reuniones sociales. La solución es estar en comunión con Dios a través de la oración y vivir nuestra fe, no simplemente profesarla. Como el senador
JUAN 10:10
Le animo a que encuentre formas de expresar esta esperanza. Comparta las bendiciones de la Eucaristía pasando tiempo adorando al Santísimo Sacramento. Sienta la fuerza de su apoyo y la calidez de su amor. Comparta al menos uno de los dones que Dios le ha dado y sea voluntario en un ministerio parroquial. Pase más tiempo con su familia. Reconcíliece con Dios participando en el Sacramento de la Reconciliación. Ame a las personas que otros pueden encontrar desagradables. Espero que haga de este el año en que dará un paso más cerca de Jesús.
Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo,
Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich
We pray for men to answer the call to be instruments of God’s grace as priests of Jesus Christ.
Vocations Corner
Father Gregory Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations
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Mr. Larry Barile 3rd Year Theology Pope St. John XXIII Weston, Massachusetts
Mr. Jacob Ramos 2nd YearTheology Mount St. Mary’s, Emmitsburg, MD
Mr. Dharen Brochero 1st Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
allelujah to our newborn King, Christ the Lord! My hope is that you experienced a merry Christmas filled with many blessings of joy, peace, faith and divine love! It’s amazing how quickly Advent and Christmas came and went. Who could ever imagine that God would save His own creation, humankind, by lovingly sending His Son into the world to lift us out of sin and bring us God’s gift of divine mercy? That the Word of God, obediently and willingly, would allow Himself to come to us in the person of a baby? Picture the newborn babe, lying in the manger and you looking on in amazement. What are you seeking from God? We have so much to be thankful for in God’s love for mankind. This year, may the fruits from our preparation be evident in our words to each other, and our actions toward each
other. May we embrace the work given to us in baptism, the work to become Holy and to become Saints with the help of God’s grace working in us. May each of us work throughout this new year, at bringing joy to others. May we root ourselves in hope of the gift God has for each of us, doing our best to be instruments of God’s love, growing in faith and becoming the best disciples of Christ that each of us can be. Reflect on this quote attributed to St. Francis of Assisi: “Above all the grace and the gifts that Christ gives to His beloved is that of overcoming self… sanctify yourself and you will sanctify society…we should seek not so much to pray but to become prayer…Lord, make me an instrument of thy peace.” If we make our gift to God this year to better our efforts at discipleship and open ourselves to His grace through
Holy Hour MR. ALEXANDER PANDOLFE 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
a more active personal prayer life, the center of which is a more active sacramental life, then we as the Body of Christ, the Church, can become a larger instrument of God’s peace in our daily world. May this Christmas season bring great renewal of mind and spirit into your heart and soul and have a greater effect in your daily life. Continue to join us in prayer at our monthly holy hour for vocations to the priesthood. Please keep our seminarians in your prayers and those who are considering taking the first step of saying yes to our Lord by deciding to apply to become priests.
for Vocations
Mr. Eric Hosmer 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
May you be blessed in the new year with good health and happiness. Happy New Year!
The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour
MONTHLY
Mr. Julian Cuervo 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
Ruben Sanchez 1st Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
JANUARY 16TH St. Mary Church, Jewett City 6pm
FEBRUARY 20th St. Joseph Church, Norwich 6pm
www.God-Calls.com
Mark Johnson 1st Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
Our Diocese
Deacon Michael Bovino 4th Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
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Another Year of Gratitude for ACA Donors and Ministries
E
ach year, the members of our diocesan family come together to support the Annual Catholic Appeal as best they can, by donating their hard-earned money throughout the year. With the close of 2019, we are happy to report that we have received a total of $2,522,300.25 in gifts and pledges. While we are $288,699.75 shy of our total, we are extremely grateful to those who recognize the invaluable services that our ACA supported ministries provide to all of us in the diocese. Whether it be to help to pay the tuition of our seminarians, to fund catechetical programs for our youth, marriage preparation classes for our newly engaged, food for the poor and counseling for the conflicted, the list can go on and on and surely impacts all of us, in one way or another. While we thank you our generous donors, those who have been helped by your kindness thank you as well! A young single mom, who has been very ill and missed a lot of work, thanks St. Vincent de Paul, Middletown for its Community Assistance Program which helped to keep her electricity on and heating oil in her tank. A new seminarian personally thanks each ACA donor for supporting him as he follows his calling to become a priest. A teenage student in Haiti expresses deep appreciation to the ACA for allowing him to stay in school and
thereby become a help to his family. Joe and Pat, two attendees of programs put on by Spiritual Renewal Services state that Unbound Prayer Ministry put the joy back in their lives and released the heaviness that they had carried for so long. A father whose family received much needed clothing thanks Catholic Charities for coming through for them at a very difficult time in his life. In addition to touching the lives of thousands, the ministries of the ACA were also blessed this
year to welcome two new leaders. Susan Wallace took over the helm at Outreach to Haiti and Maryellen Shuckerow assumed the leadership position at St. Vincent de Paul, Middletown. Both Susan and Maryellen bring great enthusiasm, passion and acumen to their ministries and we are so grateful! In our diocesan schools, 2019 brought the addition of a new principal, Ian Holland, at St. Mary – St. Joseph School in Willimantic. A former teacher, Ian eagerly brings his experience and insight to both the teachers and students of SMSJ School. We thank all of our ministry directors and staff for their everstrengthening commitment to the mission of the Diocese of Norwich and their support of the ACA as well. We pray that our ministries will continue to receive the vital help of our parishioners in 2020 as they continue to tackle the expanding needs of our friends and neighbors. We thank you for walking with us Hand in Hand with All God’s Children.
Our Diocese
By MARY ELLEN MAHONEY
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
Love: The Most Beautiful Gift Of All
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By SUSAN WALLACE
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believe God’s greatest gift to us is His love, which is given to us unconditionally. I am truly thankful for God’s gift of love, freely given, because I know if I had to earn His love, I would be in trouble more often than not. St. Matthew (22:37-39) reminds us of Christ’s command to us, “’You shall love the Lord, your God, with all your heart, with all your soul, and with all your mind. This is the greatest and first commandment. The second is ‘You shall love your neighbor as yourself.’” It is reassuring to know that many people throughout the world take these commandments to heart. This is especially true of the Diocese of Norwich, which established Outreach to Haiti; a ministry reflecting God’s love for all of us. Haiti, a country full of creative and hard-working people, is facing great political unrest that is harming the fabric of civil society. It is good to know that just as God does not give up on us, we do not give up on our Haitian brothers and sisters.
Thanks to God’s love, Outreach staff in Haiti continue their mission of working daily with the poor living in Christ the King neighborhood of Haiti’s capital city, Port-au-Prince. This is a tall order since there are more than 60,000 people living in that one neighborhood and most live on less than $2.50 a day. Our ministry has remained open during this time of unrest and continues to provide food and nutritional supplements to children, expectant mothers and their families. This is critical since the leading cause of death for children age five and younger is malnourishment. Our medical clinic gives care to the sick and provides vaccines to prevent diseases that have been mostly eradicated in the developed world. Outreach also gives more than 200 Haitian young people the opportunity to earn an education annually by making it possible for them to attend primary, secondary and post-secondary schools. This is critical to Haiti’s long-term development
and will allow more and more Haitians to develop and use their talents to improve Haitian society. Thank you for loving God with your heart, your soul and your mind; and for loving your neighbor as yourself. In the words of St. Teresa of Ávila, “Christ has no body now but yours. No hands, no feet on Earth but yours. Yours are the eyes through which He looks with compassion on this world. Yours are the feet with which He walks to do good. Yours are the hands through which He blesses all the world. Yours are the hands, yours are the feet, yours are the eyes, you are His body. Christ has no body now on Earth but yours.” Thank you for reflecting God’s love at a time when our Haitian brothers and sisters most need our help. To find out how you help visit outreachtohaiti.org.
2x3 BlueHorse Jan15FCC_Main 12/12/2017 11:10 AM Page 1
The Joy of Love:
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The Diocesan Catholic Family Services Office, in conjunction with Connecticut World Wide Marriage Encounter, is sponsoring a day of enrichment for married couples of all ages and years married entitled:
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AFFIRMING FEMIMINE GIFTS AND STRENGTHS Keynote Speaker: Danielle Bean: Author of You Are Enough: What Women of the Bible Teach You About Your Mission and Worth “Babes in arms” are welcome
Workshops On: Spirituality, prayer, Mary, family and faith sharing Mass celebrated by: Bishop Michael R. Cote D.D. Adoration and Reconciliation
Escape from worldly pressures, commitments and worries for a few hours and focus on the most important person in your life – your spouse! This day will re-energize your marriage and deepen your faith with practical insights from Pope Francis’ wisdom on marriage and family life. Couple fee - $25: includes lunch and materials. Registration required. ------------------------------------------------------------------Registration form due January 31, 2020 Names (Husband & Wife): Address: Telephone No. Send registration form and fee made payable to Diocese of Norwich to: Catholic Family Services Office, 199 Broadway, Norwich, CT 0636 Any questions, call 860-848-2237 Ext. 312 or email at mmclaughlin@norwichdiocese.net
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
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In Memoriam Father Patrick G. McCorry August 7, 1941 – December 15, 2019
The Rev. Patrick G. McCorry passed away on Sunday, December 15, 2019 in Cromwell, Connecticut. He was 78.
Father McCorry graduated from American International College in Springfield, Massachusetts with a bachelor’s degree in Liberal Arts and was employed as a municipal bond analyst for Standard and Poors for 29 years. He later received his Master of Divinity from Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, Connecticut and was ordained as a priest in 2001 in the Diocese of Norwich. He served in St. Sebastian's in Middletown and in St. Joseph's in Willimantic before retiring. Surviving are his brother, George McCorry, and his sister in law, Dianne McCorry and her daughter, Kathleen McCorry. He was predeceased by his brother, Dennis McCorry as well as his parents, Patrick and Eleanor McCorry.
Born on April 3, 1916 in Chicopee, Massachusetts Marie Ruth Exilda Page was the daughter of the late Edouard and Amanda (Gelinas) Page. Sister Marie Ruth entered religious life in Putnam, in 1934 and made her religious profession at the Motherhouse in St. Brieuc, France on September 2, 1937. She was then known as Sister Edouard de la Croix. Sister Marie Ruth was a teacher for 50 years, having taught at St. Mary School, Jewett City, CT, St. Cecilia School, Leominster, Massachusetts, St. Brendan School, New Haven, and Assumption School, Chicopee. More than 30 of those years were teaching the eighth grade. In her retirement years, she served as sacristan at St. Joseph Guest House, New Haven and did CCD work at St. Cecilia’s Parish in Leominster, and Assumption Parish, Chicopee. In 2004, she moved to the Holy Spirit Provincial House and was admitted to the healthcare facility in 2012. She was one of the first sisters to form the new community at St. Joseph Living Center in 2016. She is survived by the Daughters of the Holy Spirit spiritual family – her sisters in community, the Consecrated Seculars and the Associates as well as two nieces, one nephew and many grand and great grand nieces and nephews. She was predeceased by her brothers, David Page and Raoul Page, as well as her sisters, Gertrude Belanger, Rose Warwick, Florence Sampson and Viola Jerreld.
Sr. Marie Ruth Page, DHS
Our Diocese
Sister Marie Ruth Page, DHS, 103, a member of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit died on December 28, 2019 at Saint Joseph Living Center in Windham.
April 3, 1916 – December 28, 2019
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
Diocese Honors Teens for Leadership
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Nathalie O’Neill
Ann Lucia Bernadette Geoly
By MARY-JO MCLAUGHLIN
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ishop Michael Cote recently presented three high school students with the St. Timothy Award for outstanding Catholic character, integrity and Christian leadership. The three recipients are Ann Lucia Bernadette Geoly, a student at Ledyard High School and member of Our Lady of Lourdes in Gales Ferry; Nathalie O’Neill, a student at Mercy High School and member of St. Pius X in Middletown; and Olivia Riccio, a student at Morgan High School and a member of St. Mary of the Visitation in Clinton. The St. Timothy Award is sponsored by the National Federation for Catholic Youth Ministry and is the highest honor any diocese may bestow
on its youth. In presenting the award to recipients recently, Youth and Young Adult Minister Liza Roach said, “These young women have witnessed the value of a personal faith life that has motivated them to serve others through Christian outreach in their parishes, communities and high schools. They embody the qualities of moral integrity, prayer, good works and Christian leadership, which are the hallmark of this award.” For the past four years, Ann has been a teacher’s aide in her parish’s fifth and second grade faith formation classes. She has volunteered at the church’s Lenten Fish Fry for the past five years and helps out at the rectory with bulk mailings and other tasks. She is also a member of the
Ledyard High School Student Leadership Council and a student member of the Ledyard Board of Education, making her an active participant in local government. Josephine Cometa, the parish catechetical leader who nominated Ann for the award, wrote of Ann, “By giving of herself and her time through volunteering, I have seen her faith grow over the past few years. Her compassionate nature and positive attitude are great examples to all she encounters.” Mercy High School Theology Teacher Meg Malafronte nominated Nathalie for this year’s award. She cited Nathalie’s consistent commitment to Christian outreach activities and the message of caring that she has brought
to both her parish and high school communities as examples of Nathalie’s moral integrity and leadership. In nominating Nathalie, Malafronte wrote, “I have taught at Mercy for 18 years, and rarely see a young person so naturally involved and generous with her time and talents…I would trust her to teach, model and encourage the light of Jesus with any age group or evangelization effort.” Olivia is president of her parish youth group, lectors, assists with the faith formation program and vacation Bible school, and is a peer ministry leader. She also has been involved in community service with the local food pantry and soup kitchen, Special Olympics and bringing ‘Prayer
Bears’ to Yale New Haven Hospital. “She is a phenomenal young lady who goes over and above what is asked of her,” said Peggy Abbott, faith formation coordinator at St Mary’s in Clinton, who nominated Olivia for the award. “We congratulate Ann, Nathalie, and Olivia on receiving this award and in recognition of their witness to Christ’s love alive in their hearts,” Roach said.
Olivia Riccio
FEBRUARY 5
10:00am
Father Ray Introvigne Channel 11, WCCT Channel 20, WTXX Channel 59, WCTX
Our Diocese
TELEVISION MASS
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Adoration
Face-to-Face with Jesus An Hour of Peace
At the time of death, the Church confidently proclaims God has created us for eternal life. “Through the saving death of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we rise at your word to the glory of the Resurrection.” JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
(PREFACE - CHRISTIAN DEATH IV)
ST. MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY
Community Mausoleum Available 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich • 860-887-1019
SACRED HEART CEMETERY
Harland Road, Taftville • 860-887-1019
ST. PATRICK CEMETERY
Depot Road, Uncasville • 860-887-1019
ST. MARY CEMETERY
Community Mausoleum Available 600 Jefferson Ave, New London • 860-443-3465
RESURRECTION CEMETERY
Route 145, Westbrook • 860-443-3465
SACRED HEART CEMETERY
Wauregan Road, Wauregan • 860-887-1019
ALL HALLOWS CEMETERY
Have you ever gone to Adoration? As Catholics we believe that Christ is truly present in the Blessed Sacrament and His presence endures after Mass is concluded. Eucharistic Adoration is an opportunity to sit with Jesus, face-to-face. It is a time of prayer and reflection. Of course, we believe that God is everywhere. However, in the Eucharist His presence is most powerful.
Prayer of Adoration by Saint Teresa of Calcutta
O God, we believe you are here. We adore you and love you with our whole heart and soul because you are most worthy of all our love. We desire to love you as the blessed do in heaven… Flood our souls with your spirit and life. Penetrate and possess our whole being utterly, that our lives may only be a radiance of yours. Shine through us, and be so in us, that every soul we come in contact with may feel your presence in our soul. Let them look up and see no longer us, but only Jesus! The fruit of silence is prayer. The fruit of prayer is faith. The fruit of faith is love. The fruit of love is service. The fruit of service is peace
PLEASE HELP “We love our neighbor as being made in the image of God and as an object of His love.” - Saint Vincent de Paul
Green Hallow Road, Moosup • 860-887-1019
Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich CT 06360 860-887-1019
Donations are welcomed and always needed! St. Vincent de Paul Middletown
860-344-0097 www.svdmiddletown.org
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St.Vincent de Paul Place Norwich 860-889-7374 www.svdpp.org
Adoration Schedule 24 Hours a Day/ 7 days a Week Marian Friary of Our Lady of Guadalupe, Griswold St. Mary Church, Coventry St. John Church, Cromwell Divine Mercy Chapel is a 24-hour chapel open to the public from 7am to 9pm Committed adorers are scheduled from 9pm-7am
WEEKLY ADORATION
St. Philip the Apostle Church, Ashford Friday following the 8a Mass to 2p Our Lady of Lasalette, Brooklyn Wednesday 8:30am-7pm St. Patrick Church, East Hampton Friday, 9am – 5pm St. Peter Church, Higganum Tuesday 3pm - 6pm Saint Francis of Assisi, Middletown Thursday 4pm-5pm St. Joseph Church, Nmew London Friday from 8am-6pm St. Mary Star of the Sea, New London Thursday- 8am-5pm St. Mary Chapel, Willimantic 8am - 7pm St Mary's, Baltic Tuesday 8am - 2pm Sacred Heart, Taftville Wednesday 7:30am -3:00 pm St. Joseph Ministry Building, North Grosvenordale Tuesday and Friday 9am - 8pm Our Lady of the Lakes, Oakdale Friday after the 8am Mass St Bernard Church, Rockville Monday, Wednesday, Friday 7a-8a St. Edward Church, Stafford Springs Sunday 6pm - 7p,m Tuesdays- 9am-12 noon St Matthew Church, Tolland Tuesday and Thursday 8-9am
DAILY ADORATION Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry Eucharistic Adoration Chapel 5a -11p
MONTHLY ADORATION
First Friday (unless otherwise noted) St. Lawrence Church, Killingworth 9am-Noon St. Columba Church, Columbia 10am -7pm St. Peter Church, Higganum 3pm- 9p St. Pius X Church, mMiddletown 7pm - 8pm Saint Sebastian Church, Middletown 6pm - 7 pm Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich Following 7p Mass until 7am Saturday (w/ Benediction) All Saints Church, Somersville 9am-5pm St. Thomas Aquinas Church, Storrs 1pm - 4pm (w/ Benediction) Our Lady of the Lakes, Oakdale 3pm-6pm Church of the Holy Family, Hebron Second Friday 1pm- 7pm Saint Francis of Assisi, Middletown Second Sunday 10:30am - 11:30am St. John Church, Middletown First Thursday 8am - 9am
Our Diocese
PERPETUAL ADORATION
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Feast of Our JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
“Las Mañanitas” The Vigil Feast
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By PAULINA ANGULO
O
QueViva!
n December 11, the Corpus Christi Community in Willimantic celebrated the annual Vigil for The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe, a Mexican devotion. The diverse community is formed by three churches from the Willimantc area: Saint Joseph, Saint Mary and Sagrado Corazón de Jesús, guided under the direction of their pastor, Father Larry LaPointe. Despite the weather, faithful devotees gathered at 10:30pm to process from Sagrado Corazón de Jesús Church to Saint Joseph Church. Walking behind a statue of Our Lady of Guadalupe, carrying candles to warm and light the way, the participants sang praise and prayed the Rosary. They arrived at Saint Joseph
Church shortly before midnight, where they were welcomed by Father LaPointe accompanied by the Mariachi musicians that sang “Las Mañanitas” to the Virgin Mary. “Las Mañanitas” is a traditional Mexican song, sung to someone on a special day. Inside Saint Joseph Church, beautifully decorated with roses and flowers of different colors, the children reenacted the apparitions of Our Lady of Guadalupe to Saint Juan Diego. Father Juan Aguirre delivered the homily. “The scriptures describe Mary as ‘pondering things in her heart.’ The ability to reflect and hold brokenness, perhaps even see beyond the present circumstances to the hope, that is one of the greatest challenges in times
of suffering,” He said “That hope that every Christian is called to, even in the darkest times. It wasn’t easy for Mary; it isn’t easy for us in our challenges. Our Lord Jesus, our redeemer, wishes to pierce the soul of every sufferer through the heart of His Holy Mother, the first and most exalted of all the redeemed.” At the end of his reflection, Father Aguirre said, “Take our sufferings and crosses and present them to the Blessed Mother and pray for her intercession as our spiritual mother.” After the service, parishioners were invited to the parish hall to enjoy more Mariachi music, hot cocoa, delicious Mexican food, and fraternity, a perfect way to start the big celebration of the Virgin of Guadalupe.
Lady of Guadalupe “A Universal Call to Holiness” By PAULINA ANGULO Diego requesting that a church be built at the hill of Tepeyac to bring the Good News to the people of the region, in what is now Mexico City. Mary asked Juan Diego to bring her request to Archbishop Juan de Zumárraga. At first the Archbishop didn’t believe Juan Diego. Juan Diego persisted. The Archbishop told him that he wanted a miraculous sign, proof that the Virgin Mary had appeared to him. When Juan Diego again saw the Virgin Mary, she placed on his tilma, or cloak, Castilian roses, which were not growing in that region or in
wintertime. When Juan Diego opened his cloak before Archbishop Zumárraga on December 12, the flowers fell to the floor, and on the fabric was the image of the Virgin of Guadalupe. After the Mass, the entire congregation was invited downstairs to the hall, to enjoy delicious Mexican food, Mariachi music and a wonderful night of fraternity.
Our Diocese
O
n December 12th in the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Most Reverend Bishop Michael R. Cote, D.D. celebrated the annual Solemn Mass for The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe. Every year, devout Catholics from across the Diocese attend this bilingual Mass. “Brothers and sisters, if you want to give a great gift to the Virgin Mary, one that pleases her, please, deepen your faith, seek the progress of the people along paths of justice and peace,” said Father Michael Castiblanco, homilist. “And most important of all do not be afraid . . . do what Jesus tells you.” “Even though we honor Mary, it is important to remember that she is not the center of our faith – Jesus is the center of our faith,” Father Castiblanco said reminding us that Mary is not just an example for mothers but for all of us. The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe dates back to 1531, when the Virgin Mary appeared to Juan
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
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USCCB Launches National Civility Effort through 2020 Election FCC News Desk
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ne year ahead of the 2020 national elections, the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) is launching a year-long initiative that invites Catholics to model civility, love for neighbor, and respectful dialogue. Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debate will ask Catholics to pledge civility, clarity, and compassion in their families, communities, and parishes, and call on others to do the same. The initiative is built on the recognition that every person— even those with whom we disagree—is a beloved child of God who possesses inherent dignity. Supporting materials for the initiative include ideas to help Catholics and others of good will to engage in and model respect and
compassion, as well as resource materials to assist in the effort. Civilize It is the invitation to imitate the example of Jesus in our daily lives, including in our encounters with one another through civil dialogue. Bishop Frank J. Dewane, of Venice, and chairman of the USCCB’s Committee on Domestic Justice and Human Development emphasized the importance of Civilize It in the context of the current divisive climate: “Conversation in the public square is all too often filled with personal attacks and words that assume the worst about those with whom we disagree. We are in need of healing in our families, communities, and country. Civilize It: Dignity Beyond the Debate is a call for Catholics to honor the human dignity of each person they encounter, whether it is online, at the dinner table, or in
the pews next to them. I invite all Catholics to participate in Civilize It. In doing so, they can bear witness to a better way, approach conversations with civility, clarity, and compassion, and invite others to do the same.” Civilize It builds on a similar effort implemented in the Archdiocese of Cincinnati in previous election years. It is being offered in concert with a wider ecumenical effort, Golden Rule 2020, which invites all Christians to model our shared values of dignity and civility and pursue dialogue instead of division.
communities; resources for prayer and reflection including a pastoral aid and prayer for civility; tips for civil dialogue; and more. More information on the initiative as well as promotional materials, resources and other tools may be found on NorwichDiocese.org/CivilizeIt
Parker
Together with the USCCB, dioceses around the country are being called to utilize Civilize It to help Catholics put our faith in action by honoring human dignity through civil conversation this upcoming election year. Resource materials supporting the initiative include: a pledge to civility that parkermemorials@yahoo.com can be taken by individuals and
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piritual Renewal Services has been involved for the past 14 years with a ministry of prayer, deliverance and freedom.
This ministry, appropriately titled, Unbound operates in the realm of everyday life, which removes the veil of mystery, fear and apprehension we all sometimes experience. You may have wondered about an area in your life where you need greater freedom. Or perhaps you habitually respond to others with defensiveness, judgment or criticism. Maybe you are driven by fear, anger or lack of self-control. Do you have an irrational fear of spiders, heights or making a mistake? Do you fear the future or the past, or feel emotionally overwhelmed. The team can help you dig into those areas of trauma, abuse, guilt and other experiences and feelings. By identifying the problem, we are able to renounce and take control over it, setting a person free. Unbound prayer ministry is gentle, non-judgmental and characterized by love and acceptance. Sessions are strictly confidential. Healing and freedom conferences are offered twice a year. Unbound ministry is usually available on the last Saturday of each month at the Spiritual Renewal Center. If you would like to make an appointment or have any questions please call Judith Hughes at (860) 887-0702.
(Matthew 6:14-15)
4 Types of Healing: Spiritual, Emotional, Psychological and Physical
Mass of Healing and Hope 2nd & 4th Mondays January 13 and 27; February 10 and 24 Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich Individual Prayer and Anointing Freedom (Unbound) Prayer Ministry Saturday, January 11 To register, 860-887-0702 Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich Monthly Healing Mass and Healing Service Sunday, January 26 Mass 1 – 2pm and Healing Service Continues St. Thomas The Apostle Chapel 872 Farmington Ave, West Hartford Prayer Teams, Individual Prayer and Anointing Weekly Prayer Meeting Every Tuesday at 2pm Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich Individual Prayer and Anointing
TO PLACE AN AD OR STORY IN THE MARCH ISSUE ADVERTISEMENTS AND CONTENT DUE ON MONDAY FEBRUARY 3, 2020 CONTACT ADVERTISING SALES/PRODUCTION MANAGER MEREDITH VERNOTT, 860.887.3933 COMMEREDITH@NORWICHDIOCESE.NET
Spiritual Renewal Services
Spiritual Renewal Center 11 Bath Street, Norwich, CT 06360 Phone: 860-887-0702
Our Diocese
Spiritual Renewal Offers Healing
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“…If you (your name) FORGIVE others their transgressions (sins), your FATHER will FORGIVE yours (GUARENTEED!). But, if you do not FORGIVE others, neither will your FATHER forgive your transgressions (sins)!”
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
2019 Ryken Award
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Paul Servideo received the Ryken award from Headmaster Don Macrino
By SHARI L. MARDERNESS
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he 2019 Ryken Award was presented to Mr. Paul Servideo, a theology teacher in his second year at Saint Bernard School, following a school Mass on December 9th. "Mr. Servideo has won our admiration in the quiet unassuming manner reminiscent of XBSS founder Theodore James Ryken, and he is most deserving of this honor bestowed upon him by his colleagues," Headmaster Don Macrino said. The Ryken Award is given annually on the feast of St. Francis Xavier at each of the 13 Xaverian Brothers Sponsored Schools. The award recognizes an adult member of the school community for his or her commitment to the mission of Saint Bernard School and
dedication to the values of the Xaverian Brothers. Each year the recipient is nominated by his or her peers and approved by the administration. Mr. Servideo began working at SBS in January of 2017, but in that short time he made evident in his daily work and involvement in so many school activities his love for the Saint Bernard School community. Being nominated by his peers for the Ryken award is the most humbling part of the experience, Mr. Servideo said. “I rely so much on my fellow teachers, the staff, and administration every day. I love working with everyone who is part of this community. There is a real sense that everybody here truly cares for
everyone else,” he said. “I am deeply grateful for this honor, the kind words that Mr. Macrino said about me during the ceremony and the support of my colleagues.” Mr. Servideo graduated from Saint Anselm College, where he studied philosophy and politics. He and his wife, Adrienne (a Saint Bernard alumna), have three young daughters. He is a devoted Catholic who “uses his role as a theology teacher to spread the Gospels of Jesus Christ and to encourage the young men and women of Saint Bernards to consider the spiritual aspect of their lives,” Mr. Macrino said.
Saint Bernard School
Placement Test Saturday, February 1, 2020 • 8am–12pm Saturday, March 7, 2020 • 8am–12pm
PRAYER INTENTION:
Promotion of World Peace
We pray that Christians, followers of other religions, and all people of goodwill may promote peace and justice in the world. - Pope Francis
To register, call 860-848-1271 or visit www.saintbernardschool.org today! SAINT BERNARD SCHOOL IS A PLACE FOR YOUR CHILD TO LEARN, GROW AND DISCOVER!
136 Sachem Street Norwich CT 06360 860-889-2374 Fax 860-886-2396
Pope Francis @Pontifex
Our Diocese
Saint Bernard School practices a personalized approach to education. Recognizing students have various academic strengths, skills and abilities our placement test allows us to put students in the correct classes to challenge and strengthen them. We invite your child to take the next step in the admissions process by registering for one of our upcoming placement tests.
Let us ask for the grace to live this year with the desire to take others to heart and to care for them.
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Sacred Heart School, Groton Gail Kingston, Principal
50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton, CT 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org/school
Sacred Heart School, Taftville
Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville, CT
Phone: 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org
St. EdwardSt.School, JamesStafford School, Springs Danielson
Mrs. Pelletier, Principal LindaMaryAnne Marie Joyal, Principal 120 WaterSt, St,Stafford Danielson, CT CT 25 Church Springs, Phone: Phone: 860-774-3281 860-684-2600 www.stjamesdanielson.org www.stedward-stafford.org
St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale David Sizemore, Principal
26 Main St., N. Grosvenordale, CT Phone: 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.org
Academic Excellence. Character. Self-Confidence.
JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
St. Bernard Chooses Junior XBSS Leaders
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Allison Codner
The following students have been selected as Junior XBSS Leaders at Saint Bernard School: Perry Belfiglio, Serena Britner, Olivia Massad, Ethan Ortega, Sophia Videll, Abigail Whewell and Jack Zachem. These students will form a core leadership group here at SBS and attend a five-day retreat in March in West Hartford. Allison Codner was selected as the XBSS Distinguished Senior Leader, following an application and interview process with school administrators. She attended the XBSS retreat last year as a junior and will return to this year's retreat to take on a significant mentoring role. St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic Ian M. Holland, Principal 35 Valley St, Willimantic, CT Phone: 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org
St. Michael School, Pawcatuck
St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich
63 Liberty St, Pawcatuck, CT Phone: 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com
211 Broadway, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-889-4174 www.st-patrickschoolnorwich.org
Mrs. Doris Messina, Principal
Sharon Stewart , Principal
Academy of the Holy Fa
St. John School, Old Saybrook Mother Mary David, SCMC Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic, 42 Maynard Road, Old Saybrook, CTPhone: 860-822-9272 Phone: 860-388-0849 www.ahfbaltic.org www.saintjohnschoolos.org
C, Principal CT
Mr. Lawrence Fitzgerald, Principal 87 South Main St, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-347-2978 www.jpii.org
St. Joseph School, Baltic
Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal
10 School Hill Road, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org
St. Joseph School, New London Ms. Marianne Cote, Principal 25 Squire St, New London, CT Phone: 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com
St. Bernard School, Uncasville
Mr. Donald Macrino, Headmaster 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke, Uncasville, CT Phone: 860-848-1271 www.saint-bernard.com
“A Holy Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 76 Years of Excellence in Catholic Education ~ Grades K-8 ~
Full Day Kindergarten School Day from 8:30-2:30 After School Care Available Accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges
25 Squire Street New London, CT For information call 860-442-1720 sjsscty@ct.metrocast.net www.sjsnl.com
Superintendent's Office My Dear Friends, On a personal level, this January is special to me, as I experience 2 milestones: my 40th year in the field of education, and my 25th year in Catholic school administration. God has truly blessed me every step of the way and it is my pleasure to serve the Diocese of Norwich in our very important mission of providing a solid academic education in an atmosphere of faith and in the service of the Gospel of Our Lord, Jesus.
The National Catholic Education Association has deemed January 27- February 2 as the traditional Catholic Schools Week. In our diocese, this is the week in which our schools begin to have their Open Houses for the upcoming year. Personal tours are also available if scheduled. I invite you to visit our schools and consider the option of Catholic education. You will see firsthand how the Holy Spirit is alive and well in the Catholic schools of the Diocese of Norwich. According to an article from the National Catholic Reporter, (Carol Glatz March 2015), Pope Francis, in addressing members of an Italian association of Catholic teachers, educators and school administrators in the Vatican, indicated that in a world where it is already difficult for children to find a decent point of reference, they must find positive guidance from teachers, who "are able to give meaning to school, studying and culture, without reducing it all just to passing on practical knowledge.” "You have to teach not just about a subject, but also life's values and habits" because when it comes to learning about a subject, "a computer is sufficient, but to understand how to love, to understand what the values and habits are that create harmony in the world, you need a good teacher," Pope Francis said. In recalling his own experience as a teacher, he explained that teaching "is a really beautiful job" because it lets educators see their students "grow day after day."
The “job” he refers to is truly a vocation and a ministry in the schools of the Diocese of Norwich, and I would like to publicly acknowledge and thank each and every employee of our schools, who give of themselves daily and truly model the faith which we espouse.
God Bless!
Henry Fiore, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools
Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic Mother Mary David, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-9272 www.ahfbaltic.org
Mercy High School, Middletown
Sr. Mary McCarthy, RSM, President 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-346-6659
www.mercyhigh.com
Xavier High School, Middletown David C. Eustis, Headmaster Mr. Brendan Donohue, Principal 181 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-346-7735
www.xavierhighschool.org
Diocesan School Office 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-887-4086
OUR YOUTH
amily, Baltic
St. John Paul II School, Middletown
www.norwichdso.org
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FUNERAL HOMES
12 Ocean Avenue 12 Ocean Avenue New London, NewCT London, CT 443-1871 443-1871
48 Grand Street 48 Grand Street Niantic, CT Niantic, CT 739-6112 739-6112
www.neilanfuneralhome.com FUNERAL HOMES
12 Ocean Avenue New London, CT 443-1871
48 Grand Street Niantic, CT 739-6112
JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
www.neilanfuneralhome.com
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FUNERAL HOMES
12 Ocean Avenue New London, CT 443-1871
48 Grand Street Niantic, CT 739-6112
www.neilanfuneralhome.com
Celebrating Mrs. Meyer
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ometimes life has a way of surprising us and making us wonder what God has planned for us. If we rely on our faith to get through those difficult times, amazing things can happen. In August, our beloved fourth grade teacher, Kathleen O’Brien, was called by God to her eternal rest.
knew she had found a new home.
year in Mooreland Hill School in Kensington, Connecticut. She felt unsure of what lay ahead, but her daughter asked her where she could see herself teaching. The answer was Saint John School. When Mrs. Meyer made the call, Mrs. Breault, SJS secretary, said, “God sent you to us.” When she spoke to Mother Elaine, she
Believing that reading to the class encourages students, Mrs. Meyer has read “Waiting for the Magic” to the children. One of the main characters is a dog. The next book she picked to read is called, “The Poet’s Dog.” Sensing a theme, Mrs. Meyer admitted to the students to having three lovable pet dogs at home!
The study of science is enhanced by special jars on the window wall containing different liquids. At the start of classes, Mrs. Meyer asked her By adding new things to the jars, the students students to prepare “All about Me” posters. It learn by observing changes. They are asked to was a fun way to get to know each other. document their observations and figure out the Mrs. Meyer believes in a hands-on style of reasons for the changes. learning. While learning about the saints, When asked what special skills she brings to All at St. John School in Old Saybrook were one student suggested making banners with her job as a teacher, she listed her positivity shocked and saddened. While overwhelmed by each saint’s information. The first saint was and her desire to reach each child on some level her loss, the school still had to find a new teacher Saint Padre Pio! The banners have the saint’s every day. It’s not surprising that her daily blog for the fourth grade. In faith we know that God information and Bible verses. is entitled “Joyful at St. John School.” Nor is works in mysterious ways. At the same time this The class also requested a prayer corner in it surprising that her license plate proclaims was happening at SJS, another amazing teacher the room. The corner has pictures of places “Smile!” There is no doubt that God smiled had just found out that her school was closing. of comfort, like a church and home. How upon SJS when He sent Mrs. Meyer to us. Mrs. Meyer had been preparing for a new school wonderful that the students requested this space!
OUR YOUTH
By MARYLOU ZINSER
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Saint Joseph School, Baltic Receives Award
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
aint Joseph School, in Baltic received an award as one of the top-performing schools in the Governor's Summer Reading Challenge. It was the only Catholic school recognized in the State of Connecticut.
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Mrs. Chris Siebert, school librarian, accepts the award from Governor Ned Lamont and Dr. Miguel Cardona, Commissioner of Education.
St. Joseph School New London, CT
“A Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 81 Years of Excellence In Catholic Education Grades K-8
Registration is ongoing, please call for information
St. Joseph School 25 Squire St New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-442-1720
◆ Renowned college preparatory boarding school for young men who have not yet realized their potential. ◆ Located in scenic southeastern Connecticut
Introvigne FUNERAL HOME, INC.
Serving All Faiths • Pre-Need Arrangements Traditional Services or Cremations Directors: Joseph R. Introvigne, Joseph R. Introvigne, Jr. & Michael J. Introvigne 51 East Main St. Stafford Springs, CT
860-684-2538
www.introvignefuneralhome.com
Our Lady of Lourdes Parish in Gales Ferry presents: Two More Segments of Bishop Baron’s DVD Series
CATHOLICISM The Pivotal Players
Bishop Robert Baron's DVD explores saints, artists, mystics, and scholars who helped shape the life of the Church and the course of western civilization.
January 22
Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community. Embracing Service. Living Faith. Supported financially and spiritually by 10 parishes in the Middletown Deanery. Currently the only regional Pre-K to 8th grade school in the Norwich Diocese.
St. John Paul II Regional Catholic School 87 South Main Street / Middletown, CT 06457 Telephone: 860-347-2978 / www.jpii.org
Bishop Baron’s Pivotal Players book is available from Word-on-Fire Ministries but is not obligatory
February 5
Flannery O’Connor, the Storyteller who profoundly influenced contemporary culture & literature with sometimes shocking, convoluted, violent, funny, religious fiction novels & short stories that awaken our need for salvation
There is no fee for this series.
ADDRESS CHANGES
Please be sure to notify us of an address change, name change of a recipientor a request to discontinue receiving the newspaper. You may notify us via email at subscriptions@norwichdiocese.net or call 860-887-3933. Thank you for helping us maintain accurate mailing information to better serve you.
All presentations are at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Meeting Room 1650 Route12, Gales Ferry (across from CVS) Reserve your seat on-line at secretary@ololgf.org or by phone at 860.464.7251
OUR FAITH
An Education You Can Believe In.
Archbishop Fulton J. Sheen, the Communicator & Venerable Servant of God who pioneered evangelization through electronic media. His gift for spreading the faith persuasively and clearly reached up to 30 million people weekly.
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
Family, Faith and Fun!
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By ANDREA HOISL
A
s part of the new Diocesan Faith Formation curriculum, students and families from grades K-2 from Blessed Sacrament Parish, Tolland, met recently for breakfast, faith sharing, fellowship and to work on a holiday service project. The service project consisted of making personalized placemats for Thanksgiving that were distributed to a local nursing home for residents to enjoy with their holiday meal. Participating in projects like this is one of the many ways that our children learn how important it is to share their God-given gifts and talents with others. “It’s an opportunity for the children and their families to show God’s love and a great chance for parents to model their faith,” said Kimberly Manganella, parish director of Faith Formation. Similar programs at Blessed Sacrament will continue throughout the year for every grade. The integration of a service project every year was one of the big changes in the Diocesan faith formation curriculum. Service is a hands-on opportunity that gives everyone a shared faith experience. It gives the person doing the service an opportunity to help others while giving recipients
a sense that someone cares about and remembers them. Service opportunities help our children understand in a very concrete way how they are the hands and face of Christ for others. In most Diocesan parishes, service projects also become a specific outreach and/or assistance for the local community. By sponsoring service projects that benefit local agencies and members of the community, parishes make these types of projects more “real” for students and their families. When people know their help will benefit the local community, they have a sense of pride and accomplishment in participating in service projects. Requiring that service projects be a part of each parish’s faith formation curriculum gives children a better understanding of the practical application of their faith. Faith is not just a set of rules and traditions to be taught and memorized; it is a belief system that needs to be lived. By offering service projects like this one at Blessed Sacrament, we are helping our families understand that together we are building a stronger Church for the future.
Trust in the mercy of God’s love. If you are carrying the grief and sorrow of past abortions, call Project Rachel a post-abortion healing ministry. All calls are confidential.
860-861-4439
See the latest list of retreats on NorwichDiocese.org
St. Mary - St. Joseph School
14 Club Road Windham, CT 06280 860.456.1107 www.sjlivingcenter.org
35 Valley Street Willimantic, CT 06226 860-423-8479 * www.smsjschool.org https://www.facebook.com/smsjschool.org
Academic Excellence
Small Class Sizes
Variety of After School Activities
Dedicating our love, compassion and service to our community. Specializing in: *Short-term Rehabilitation *Long-term Care *End-of-Life Care *Daily Mass
Sponsoredbybythe the Sponsored Dioces of Norwich Diocese of Norwich
Pre-K through Grade 8
Certified Teachers
Before and After School Care
Fully Accredited by NEAS&C and the State of CT
Offering “shadow” days where we allow your child to join us for the day to immerse in our faith community. Engaging minds, nurturing hearts. Call now to schedule your visit!
Discover what a Catholic education can do for your child!
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Pope Francis Calls Us to Bear Witness to Jesus
Fai th Sparks
By MARY-JO MCLAUGHLIN
I JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
t has been said that one of the hallmarks of good writers is the ability to connect their audience to a story. If this is true, then one of the gifts of Pope Francis’ ministry is his ability to connect each of us with the story the Lord wants us to write with our lives.
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Last October, in launching an Extraordinary Missionary Month, Pope Francis gave a stirring homily in which he spoke about the call each of us has been given to be missionaries. We are missionaries, he wrote, “By living as witnesses: bearing witness by our lives that we have come to know Jesus.” If bearing witness to Jesus is the story the Lord wants us to write, nowhere is that story more important to tell than to our families, for it is within the framework of family life that we come to learn who God is. Each person is given specific gifts and talents which, according to Pope Francis, “are not something to be stored in a safe, but a true vocation: The Lord calls us to make our talents bear fruit, with boldness and creativity.” For those of us blessed to be parents and grandparents, our vocation is, in part, to pass on the faith to our children and grandchildren and
help them to understand and appreciate that each of us is precious in God’s eyes. And, the Pope asserts, we must do so with boldness and creativity. That is a tall order when the faith that we cherish is not embraced by those within our own families. Perhaps, we have encountered too much resistance in trying to get adult children to return to the church, so rather than rock the boat and upset the status quo we sit back and do nothing. But doing so, says Pope Francis, is to deny our vocation, which is a ‘sin of omission.’ He writes: “We sin against mission when we yield to resignation: ‘I can’t do this: I’m not up to it.’ How can that be? God has given you talents, yet you think yourself so poor that you cannot enrich a single person? We sin against mission when we become slaves to the fears that immobilize us when we let ourselves be paralyzed by thinking that ‘things will never change.’” Perhaps things will not change in our time, but in God’s time all things are possible. Pope Francis adds, “The Lord is asking you to be a gift wherever you are, and just as you are, with everyone around you.” If you are a person of faith, then don’t deny that faith in front of family
members who view religion differently than you. You have been given the gift of faith and the Lord is calling you to be a missionary and share that faith to all you encounter, especially your family. There are many simple and subtle ways to give witness to your faith. Some of these may include: sacramentalizing your home, prominently displaying a crucifix or statues of the holy family, Mary or saints; letting your children see you praying and encouraging them to pray on their own; sharing your faith experiences; taking family trips to area shrines; having discussions about ways you have experienced God in your life; or creating traditions based on the liturgical seasons. The Pope recognizes that testifying to our faith may be difficult for some to do, yet he encourages us not to waver and instead to have courage. “The Lord expects great things from you. The Lord will not leave you alone in bearing witness; you will discover that the Holy Spirit has gone before you and prepared the way for you. Courage, rediscover your fruitfulness in the joy of mission!”
For a copy of Pope Francis’ homily cited in this column, visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks. There you will also find helpful websites on creating a ‘Domestic Church’ for your family.
Ignite Your Faith.
FOUR COUNTY
CATHOLIC FOUR COUNTY
CATHOLIC
Rejoicing in the good of others
VOLUME 31 • NUMBER 1 • JANUARY
OF MIDDLESEX, 2019 SERVING THE COUNTIES
NEW LONDON, TOLLAND, WINDHAM,
CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY
FOUR COUNTY
CATHOLIC
Respect Life Month
NORWICHDIOCESE.ORG
A thrill of
Hope
Volume 31 • Number 9 • OCTOBER 2019 SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY
the weary world
Trust in the LORD Heart with all Your
Proverbs 3:5
of Saint Jean Vianney Hundreds Venerate the Incorrupt Heart Church in Gales Ferry December 13 at Our Lady of Lourdes at Monthly Holy Hour for Vocations
CATHOLIC FOUR COUNTY
DIOCESE of NORWICH
OF 2019 SERVING THE COUNTIES
Rejoicing in the good of others
MIDDLESEX, NEW LONDON,
TOLLAND, WINDHAM, CT &
OUR
IN EVERY SEASON OF
RG FISHERS ISLAND, NY NORWICHDIOCESE.O
Love Life, Choose Life
VOLUME 31 • NUMBER 2 • FEBRUARY
Love
ChristHOPE
FOUR COUNTY
CATHOLIC
LIFE L IF
Volume 31 • Number 10 • NOVEMBER
Thank You NorwichDiocese.org
D. C. March for Life 2019 - Washington
Thanks to your generous support, the Four County Catholic can serve its readers by sharing Christ’s Gospel message and by celebrating our diocesan community, its members and ministries.
1989-2019
Rejoices
2019 SERVING THE COUNTIES OF
MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON
T
• TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT
& FISHERS ISLAND, NY
hankful for our religious freedom
Andfor those
who bravely stand in harm’s way
FOUR COUNTY
CATHOLIC
Volume 31 • Number 8 • SEPTEMBER 2019
SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX
• NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM,
CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY
Before I formed you in the womb I knew you . . . Jeremiah 1:5
It is a privilege to continue to share the good news of the gospel with you. Happy new year! Your Four County Catholic family September 25 ) November
CATHOLIC
FOUR COUNTY
VOLUME 31 • NUMBER 4 • APRIL 2019
SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX,
HOLY WEEK APRIL 14-20
CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NEW LONDON, TOLLAND, WINDHAM,
NY
HOLY WEEK
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OF 2019 SERVING THE COUNTIES VOLUME 31 • NUMBER 5 • MAY
& FISHERS ISLAND, NY • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON
four CounTY
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Volume 31 • Number 6 • JuNe/July
2019 Serving The CounTieS of MiddleSex
• new london • Tolland
• windhaM, CT & fiSherS iSland,
nY
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VOLUME 31 • NUMBER 7 • AUGUST 2019 SERVING THE COUNTIES OF
and I will make you fishers of men." Mark 1:17
We must remember always the wisdom of Archbishop Sheen, that no matter how difficult a passage we are going through as individuals, families, or as a Country Life is a sacred gift from God and in every way worth living. Faith will lead the way.
You are cordially invited to attend the
Mass of Ordination on Saturday, June 29, 2019 at 10:30 am. ß
ent
Mary Our Lady of the Blessed Sacram
Bishop Michael R. Cote
Cathedral of Saint Patrick
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MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY
LIFE IS WORTH LIVING
"Come follow me,
The Week That Forever Changed The World
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OUR FAITH
DIOCESE of NORWICH
VENERABLE SERVANT OF
GOD
FULTON J. SHEEN
31
FOUR COUNTY
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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
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Happy New Year
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