Four County Catholic August 2020

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

Volume 32 • Number 7 • AUGUST 2020 • SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

Hope

for the

Future

"The Lord your God will bless you in all your work and in everything you put your hand to."

Deuteronomy 15:10

In this Issue page

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“The last four months have been exceptionally difficult. I have put off asking for assistance as I have been selling my things to help make ends meet (almost). I finally sought out your assistance . . . My son and I have done our best to help others and never expected to be in this uncomfortable and embarrassing situation. Your kindness is so very much appreciated.”

Robyn, a recent recipient of emergency food donations sharing her gratitude at the support received from Catholic Charities during a financial downturn.

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PUBLISHER

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

“. . .serving the poorest and most vulnerable people, our staff, like warriors, had braved dangers, gone through inflamed tires, dodged rock shots and moved through violent demonstrations to come and support malnourished children, pregnant women, and school and university students with fragile socioeconomic conditions.”

“Your applause tells me you are almost as happy as I am at this moment. What a blessing to experience, once again,

God’s tenderness toward the Church of Norwich.”

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., expressing his joy and acknowledging that of those in attendance at the Ordination of Reverend Michael Patrick Bovino.

On the Cover: Father Michael Patrick Bovino, ordained to the Priesthood June 27, 2020, imparts his first blessing on Bishop Michael R. Cote. D. D.

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Four County Catholic Issue 7, Ausgust (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

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We Can Help

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860.887.9294

Ryan Blessing, 860.887.3933 rblessing@norwichdiocese.net

Jude Cangé, Outreach to Haiti Director of Operations, sharing observations on the challenges COVID-19 posed in helping Haiti’s most vulnerable people.

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To report inappropriate conduct of any kind by a Diocesan Bishop please contact ReportBishopAbuse.org or call 1-800-276-1562 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

Para reportar una conducta inapropiada de cualquier tipo por parte de un obispo diocesano, por favor contacte ReportBishopAbuse.org o llame al 1-800-276-1562 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

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

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.

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

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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

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, These have become extraordinary times. The world is intensely focused on the pandemic, the economy, politics, and social justice. “Facts” change depending on the source of information. Calumny is running rampant in social media. Political pundits appearing on news programs put their own “spin” on the headlines to support their position. It is easy to become discouraged. It is easy to lose hope in the future, especially if our focus is misplaced.

As Christians, we know where our focus does the most good. When we keep Our Lord in our sights, seeing Christ in everyone, no matter their race, creed, or socioeconomic station in life; then we will experience the grace and peace promised in our baptism. A future worthy of hope.

Regarding the future, Pope Francis said, “To Christians, the future does have a name, and its name is hope.

Feeling hopeful does not mean to be optimistically naive and ignore the tragedy humanity is facing. Hope is the virtue of a heart that doesn’t

lock itself into darkness, that doesn’t dwell on the past, does not simply get by in the present, but is able to see a tomorrow.”

A few short weeks ago our diocese was blessed to once again experience God’s tenderness toward our humble Church of Norwich, as I had the honor of conferring the order of priesthood on Michael Patrick Bovino. This was truly a special day, filled with the hope and promise of a bright future. What a blessing for all of us.

I was thinking, as Father Bovino imparted his first blessing on me, how quickly the time has passed since my own ordination to the priesthood 45 years prior by Pope Saint Paul VI. I am grateful for all the prayers and blessings that I have received over these many years. It is in this knowledge and the faith that has been nurtured in me, that I thank God for the gift of my vocation and ask Him to pour out His grace upon many more of His sons that they too might embrace a priestly vocation and be led to His altar of sacrifice in service to the people of the Diocese of Norwich.

Father Michael, living out a call to service, will minister to the spiritually wounded with the sacraments of healing and community, instituted by Christ. He will, as priests are called to do, bring Christ’s peace into the world.

moment. Do what you can do. It can be as simple as offering prayers of supplication as well as thanksgiving or getting involved in a ministry or organization that advances the human dignity that is everyone’s birthright.

It was in 1969, another uncertain and tumultuous time, that Pope Saint Paul VI said, “The world cannot give up its dream of universal Peace. It is precisely because Peace is always coming to be, always incomplete, always fragile, always under attack, always difficult, that we proclaim it. We proclaim it as a duty, an inescapable duty.”

This country was started by people with the promise of greatness. That greatness continues today. As Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. said in his “I Have a Dream” speech, “When the architects of our republic wrote the magnificent words of the Constitution and the Declaration of Independence, they were signing a promissory note to which every American was to fall heir...”

We are all still bound by this duty. All who are baptized.

While it might appear that we are in a time warp, much progress has been made since 1969. There is, however, still a ways to go. We can accept this progress and then build on it. We cannot resign ourselves to complacency. We must do what we have always done.

Climb to the mountaintop in service to God and each other.

We have a focus. We need not be overwhelmed by the chaos of the

It is our responsibility, as followers of Christ, to do what we can to deliver on this promissory note, in the way Jesus taught us, with Kindness and Love.

Trust and follow your faith.

Sincerely yours in the unwavering peace of Christ, Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Hope for the Future

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THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Esperanza para el futuro

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Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, Estos se han convertido en tiempos tumultuosos.

El mundo está intensamente enfocado en la pandemia, la economía, la política y la justicia social. Los "hechos" cambian según la fuente de información. La calumnia se está extendiendo en las redes sociales.

Los expertos políticos que aparecen en los programas de noticias ponen su propio "giro" en los titulares para apoyar su posición. Es fácil desanimarse. Es fácil perder la esperanza en el futuro, especialmente si nuestro enfoque está fuera de lugar.

Como cristianos, sabemos dónde nuestro enfoque hace el bien. Cuando mantenemos a Nuestro Señor en la mira, viendo a Cristo en todos, sin importar su raza, credo o posición socioeconómica en la vida; entonces experimentamos la gracia y la paz prometidas en nuestro bautismo. Un futuro digno de esperanza.

Con respecto al futuro, el Papa Francisco dijo: “Para los cristianos, el futuro tiene un nombre, y ese nombre es la esperanza. Sentirse esperanzado no significa ser un optimista ingenuo e ignorar la tragedia que enfrenta la

humanidad. La esperanza es la virtud de un corazón que no se encierra en la oscuridad, que no se detiene en el pasado, o simplemente logra pasar el presente, sino que puede ver un mañana ".

Hace unas pocas semanas, nuestra diócesis tuvo la bendición de experimentar una vez más la ternura de Dios hacia nuestra humilde Iglesia de Norwich, ya que tuve el honor de conferir la orden del sacerdocio a Michael Patrick Bovino. Este fue realmente un día especial, lleno de esperanza y promesa de un futuro brillante. Qué bendición para todos nosotros.

Cuando Padre Bovino me dió su primera bendición, yo pensaba, cuán rápido ha pasado el tiempo desde mi propia ordenación al sacerdocio que fue 45 años antes por el Papa San Pablo VI. Estoy agradecido por todas las oraciones y bendiciones que he recibido durante estos años. Es en el conocimiento y en la fe que se ha cultivado en mí, que agradezco a Dios por el don de mi vocación y le pido que derrame Su gracia sobre muchos más de Sus hijos para que ellos también puedan abrazar una vocación sacerdotal y ser guiados a su altar de sacrificio en servicio a la

gente de la Diócesis de Norwich.

Padre Michael, viviendo un llamado al servicio, ministrará a los heridos espirituales con los sacramentos de curación y comunidad, instituidos por Cristo. Él lo hará, como los sacerdotes están llamados a hacerlo, llevar la paz de Cristo al mundo.

Fue en 1969, otro momento incierto y tumultuoso, que el Papa San Pablo VI dijo: “El mundo no puede renunciar a su sueño de paz universal. Precisamente porque la paz siempre está llegando a ser, siempre incompleta, siempre frágil, siempre bajo ataque, siempre difícil, es que la proclamamos como un deber, un deber ineludible.”

Todos seguimos obligados por este deber. Todos quienes somos bautizados.

Si bien puede parecer que estamos en un tύnel del tiempo, se ha avanzado mucho desde 1969. Sin embargo, todavía hay mucho camino por recorrer. Podemos aceptar este progreso y luego construir sobre él. No podemos resignarnos a la complacencia. Debemos hacer lo que siempre hemos hecho. Subir a la cima de la montaña en servicio a Dios y a los demás.

Tenemos un enfoque No necesitamos estar abrumados por el caos del

MONTHLY

Holy Hour for Vocations

momento. Haga lo que pueda hacer.

Puede ser tan simple como ofrecer oraciones de súplica, así como acción de gracias o involucrarse en un ministerio u organización que promueva la dignidad humana que es un derecho para todos desde el nacimiento.

Este país fue iniciado por personas con la promesa de la grandeza. Esa grandeza continúa hoy. Como dijo el Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. en su discurso "Tengo un sueño": "Cuando los arquitectos de nuestra república escribieron las magníficas palabras de la Constitución y la Declaración de Independencia, firmaron un pagaré que todos los estadounidenses deben heredar… " Como seguidores de Cristo, es nuestra responsabilidad, hacer lo que podamos para cumplir con este pagaré, en la forma en que Jesús nos enseñó, con amabilidad y amor.

Confíe y siga su fe.

Sinceramente en la inquebrantable paz de Cristo, Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour AUGUST 13 St. Sebastian, Middletown 6-7pm SEPTEMBER 17 St. Mary, Middletown 6-7pm

God-Calls.com

Vocations Corner A Seminarian Reflection Mr. Larry Barile 3rd Year Theology Pope St. John XXIII Weston, Massachusetts

We are glad you have been enjoying our seminarian reflections these past months. Before introducing you to another of our seminarians, I think it is important to highlight some things that have taken place during these past months of COVID–19 and during the transition period of June and July as the diocesan family has been getting back to a greater semblance of normal.

Congratulations to Deacon Larry Barile and to Father Michael Bovino. Deacon Larry was ordained a transitional deacon at Pope St. John XXIII National Seminary on April 15 with his seminary class while still at seminary. He begins his final year of formation this month.

Congratulations also to Father Bovino, who was ordained to the Holy Priesthood on June 27 by his Excellency Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich. May God bless Father Michael with many healthy, happy, fruitful years of serving in the diocese as an instrument of Christ our great High Priest! Please keep Father Bovino along with Deacon Larry and all our seminarians in your prayers.

Mr. Eric Hosmer 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Almost everyone is aware that the ACA collection was delayed and was just actually taken a couple of weeks ago throughout the diocese.

Please know that any gift is important. The ACA collection makes it possible for the Church, around the Diocese of Norwich, to do its work. If you have not yet given to the ACA, or maybe never have given, the time is now to help your brothers and sisters across Eastern Connecticut. Do whatever you can.

God’s family, all of us, work in different ways in supporting what the diocesan ministries do. If you cannot at this time give financial assistance, please give all our ministries your prayerful assistance. Both are great gifts. Thank you for whatever you can do to help.

Now it is a pleasure to introduce to you one of our seminarians who joined us from Medellin, Colombia, several years ago.

It’s been a long road for Ruben Dario Garcia Sanchez, yet he continues to work toward one day being a priest of God, ready to serve the Diocese of Norwich.

MR. ALEXANDER PANDOLFE 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

Mr. Julian Cuervo 2nd Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

I am Rubén Darío García Sánchez, I was born in the city of Medellín, Colombia. I am the fourth son of Manuel García and Rosalba Sánchez. I have two sisters and a brother, who has been a priest for 15 years.

I also have four nieces. I was linked to the seminary of Medellín, where I received a Canonical Baccalaureate in philosophy. I advanced my studies in theology there and I also received the candidacy for the Holy Orders (Admissio ad Ordines) and the ministry of the lectorate.

In 2012 I first became linked to the Diocese of Norwich and started studying English as a second language. After a year and a half of studies and having consulted with Father Greg Galvin, vocation director of the diocese, I decided to return to Colombia. Being in my home city, I resumed my job as a teacher in the areas of religious education and philosophy. I must also say that I have been a teacher for vocation.

In 2017 I returned to the diocese to continue the English as a second language program, a program that I completed at the University of Connecticut. Last year I was accepted at Mount Saint Mary Seminary

Emmitsburg, MD

Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations everyone to be holy.

Ruben Garcia Sanchez 1st Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD in Emmitsburg, Maryland, to finish my priestly formation. I just finished the first year of theology.

As I mentioned earlier, I feel that God has called me through people and I believe that one of them was a former pastor in my home parish in Colombia, Father Gerardo Díaz Molina. I consider him to be a model of a diocesan priest, who enjoys celebrating with great joy the sacraments, preaching the word of God and inviting

In addition, I must also mention my brother and my best friend (Father Camilo) in Colombia who have become priestly models. Nor can I overlook the support and example that I have received from some priests here in the Diocese: Larry LaPointe, George Richard, Brian Converse, Michael Giannitelli, Juan Ángel Aguirre, Michael Castiblanco, Jonathan Ficara, Henry Agudelo and Greg Galvin. In all of them, some with the longest experience in the priestly life and others walking their first steps in the ministry, I have been able to understand the words of Pope Francis: "Shepherds with the odour of the sheep," -- that is, priests who work with the people of God and for the people of God. I would like to end this short story about my vocation saying that following in the footsteps of Jesus implies accepting certain challenges. One of them, in my case, was learning a new language. However, I have been willing to accept this and many other challenges because I have understood the words of Jesus in the Gospel: “I am with you always, until the end of the age."

Mark Johnson 1st Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Mr. Jacob Ramos 2nd YearTheology Mount St. Mary’s, Emmitsburg, MD

Finally, a big THANK YOU to The Catholic Foundation. The vocation office received checks totaling $46,165 toward tuition, room and Dharen Manuel board. This is so important since our annual Seminary Education Fund collection this past May was not nearly what it’s been during its Brochero Garavito history. Of course this is one of the ripple effects of the pandemic. This money will be very helpful in paying the tuition bills of almost two 1st Theology, seminarians.

Mount St. Mary Seminary

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Reverend Frank W. McKenna

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

July 8, 1934 ~ July 10, 2020

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The Reverend Frank W. McKenna, retired priest of the Diocese of Norwich died July 10, 2020, in Putnam, Connecticut. He was 86.

As both educator and pastor, Father McKenna is fondly remembered as a compassionate and giving priest.

Father McKenna, son of Frank W. McKenna and Janet (Burst) McKenna, was born in Long Branch, New Jersey His elementary and high school years were spent in and around Red Bank, New Jersey. He received a B.A. degree in classical languages from Seton Hall University.

He taught at Saint Bernard High School in New London and Uncasville from 1961-1990, prior to entering Holy Apostles Seminary in Cromwell, Connecticut for his priestly formation. He graduated in 1994 with a Master of Divinity degree.

He was ordained to the priesthood by the Most Reverend Daniel P. Reilly, Bishop of Norwich, on May 28, 1994 at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich.

Following his ordination, Father McKenna’s first parish assignments were at Most Holy Trinity Church in Pomfret and Saint Andrew Church in Colchester. In 1998 he was appointed as the administrator and then pastor of Saint Augustine Church in Canterbury. In 2008 he was appointed chaplain of St. Joseph Living Center in Windham.

In 2009, Father retired to Saint Jude Commons in Norwich.

Father McKenna is survived by his brother, David E. McKenna of Longwood, Florida, and a niece, Deirdre McKenna of Pittsfield, Massachusetts.

Thank You...

To our parishioners and priests serving our communities;

The doctors, nurses, medical personnel and first responders who lovingly care for our sick; Our donors who support our soup kitchens and ministries in need of supplies and monetary gifts; Our volunteers and staff working in our ministries helping those in need

We Thank You All for your continued prayers and support 197 Broadway, Norwich 06360- 4418 Phone (860) 886-1928 Norwichdiocedevelopment.org

As Pope Francis reminds us, our parishes need to be “islands of mercy in the mist of the sea of a difference.” Everyone in our parish community should know where to refer a pregnant woman in need.

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

To assess, expand, and better communicate resources to pregnant moms and families in need, our parishes are joining the a nationwide effort from March 25, 2020 to March 25, 2021 entitled “Walking With Moms in Need: A Year of Service.”

We invite our parishioners to join us as we embark on this Year of Service. For more information, please contact Father Walter Nagle at Christ the King Church 860-434-1669

Thankful for a Return to Sunday Mass

By Mary Ellen Mahoney, Director of Development

As I heard the Gospel, I couldn’t help but think how fitting it was on this, our first Sunday back in the midst of a pandemic, to hear the words of Matthew 11:28-30, “Come to me, all you who labor and are burdened and I will give you rest. Take my yoke upon you and learn from me, for I am meek and humble of heart; and you will find rest for yourselves. For my yoke is easy, and my burden light.”

Certainly, many of us felt burdened during the last few months, and Jesus had been the source of our strength over and over again. Now, here we were hearing Jesus tell us yet again that He was with us every step of the way, helping us to cope with the new normal.

Years ago, I heard a priest explain that because Jesus was a carpenter, he would have made many yokes for the farmers living in Nazareth. As a skilled carpenter, he knew how to build a yoke so that it would not hurt the ox, so that it did not pinch the skin, and perfectly, evenly distributed the load. The yoke would be uniquely fit to each ox and Jesus would have been very adept at constructing such a yoke. Therefore, I believe, when Jesus tells us to take “my yoke” he is telling us that it has been made for us, it is what we can manage.

I found it so reassuring to hear this familiar passage and to reflect on what I had been told so long ago. During the past few months, I have been concerned for not only the health of my family and friends but also for our diocesan

we can to help keep each other healthy ministries and the efforts of this year’s and safe and lift each other up in prayer Annual Catholic Appeal, “One Faith, and love. For those who would like to One Family.” give online, please go to our website, or With the March ACA in-pew process NorwichDioceseDevelopment.org having been postponed and donations if you would like to speak to our new reduced, I have had anxiety over the fate of our ministries that are supported by the Appeal. I was well aware that our soup kitchens, St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich, St. Vincent de Paul, Middletown and Catholic Charities with locations in Norwich, New London, Middletown and Willimantic, were being heavily stressed and stretched to their financial limits by serving many more people than usual.

Campaign Manager, Heather Harris, she can accept your donation and answer your questions at (860) 886-1928, ext.

111 or at hharris@norwichdiocese.net.

TELEVISION MASS

Even though churches were not open, the needs of our seminarians, those caring for our sick and elderly, or those working in our cemeteries and properties ministry, to name a few, have certainly been ongoing. Peoples’ spirits have been down, and many looked to their priests and our spiritual renewal services for guidance and support. So many of our ministries continued to do their lifechanging work throughout the pandemic as best they were able to do. They rose to the challenge and the ACA needed to as well.

AUGUST 5 Father Peter Langevin SEPTEMBER 2 Father Jon Ficara

Channel 11, WCCT • Channel 20, WTXX • Channel 59, WCTX

I will take comfort in remembering that Jesus has built me a yoke, specifically fit to my needs and my abilities. I have faith that another favorite verse from the Book of Matthew, “For where your treasure is, there also will your heart be,” will be remembered by all.

Faced with increased unemployment and so much uncertainty, some are understandably unable to support the ACA at the levels they have in the past. To those of you who have already given, we thank you so much. We truly appreciate every single dollar and are so grateful for what your generosity allows our ministries to do. By working together throughout this pandemic, we have all exhibited our belief that we truly are of “One Faith, One Family.”

I pray that we all continue to do what

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AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

“Thank you, thank you to all of you who have remembered us in your prayers and continued to support our parish during the pandemic, it has meant so much to us,” Father Richard Breton enthusiastically said during the July 5 Mass at St. Andrew Church in Colchester. We were finally back to Sunday Mass and it felt great! While many people continued to watch the Mass being livestreamed into the comfort of their homes, my husband, John, and I joined about 55 people eager and so thankful to hear the Gospel in person.

860.536.4895

www.thebluehorse.com

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AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Three Familiar Faces Retire after Combined 37 Years of Diocesan Service

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This summer saw the retirement of two dedicated members of the Office of Safe Environments, Randy Bouley, left, database coordinator, and Karen Caise, right, director.

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin, Catholic Family Services Humility, integrity and dedication are attributes that describe three familiar faces at the Diocese of Norwich Bishop Flanagan Ministry Center who retired this summer with a combined 37 years of service to the diocese.

that, she retired from Pfizer after 33 years as a scientist manager.

Caise began her work as OSE director in May 2010 with 18 years of experience owning two childcare centers in Ledyard, Connecticut.

Before that she was a research scientist for 10 years at Pfizer in Groton.

The Office of Safe Environments oversees the background screening and training of all diocesan volunteers who work with minors, as well as all clergy, religious and diocesan employees. It produces safe environment policies for the diocese and manages diocesan compliance of safe environment training and screening protocols. In addition, it coordinates audits mandated by the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops to ensure that the diocese complies with the provisions of the USCCB Charter for the Protection of Children and Young People.

Bouley joined the department in 2012 to provide operational support. Before

Both women said they are proud of their efforts to streamline OSE

The retirees are Karen Caise, director of the Office of Safe Environments, her database coordinator Randy Bouley, and Susan Underhill, campaign manager for the Diocesan Office of Development.

procedures to make them more efficient, cost effective and user friendly for parishes, schools and institutions. They are particularly proud of their work last year in modifying and implementing the No Go Tell safe environment curriculum for children in parish faith formation programs. Both women hope their efforts will empower children to become more aware of their environments and advocate for themselves in all types of situations.

“Our goal is that the mantra No Go Tell will be as familiar to children as the fire-protection mantra ‘Stop, Drop and Roll,’” Caise said.

Caise and Bouley said they will miss their co-workers and employees at diocesan parishes who have always supported the work of the OSE to

protect diocesan youth. Both praised the guidance the OSE has received over the years from Father Richard Ricard and Father Brian Romanowski, who have served, at different times, as Bishop Michael Cote’s delegate to the OSE. Caise also acknowledged Bishop Cote for his ongoing support and affirmation of the OSE’s mission.

Father Brian, the bishop’s current delegate for OSE, congratulated both Caise and Bouley on a well-deserved retirement. “You have dedicated many years in service of God’s people in the Diocese of Norwich, particularly in the protection of children and young people,” he said. “Your organizational skills have ensured that the clergy, employees, and volunteers working and ministering in our diocese have been background-screened and trained

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Sue Underhill retired this summer after 20 years with the Diocesan Development Office, most recently as campaign manager for the Annual Catholic Appeal.

and our children educated through the revised No Go Tell curriculum.

You have performed this important and difficult work maintaining safe environments within our parishes, school and ministries with good humor, persistence, and grace that I have very much appreciated and will miss.”

Underhill joined the Diocesan Development Office in December 2000 as a part-time worker handling the billing for the Annual Catholic Appeal. She moved to full-time work in various positions of increasing responsibility within that department before being named campaign manager in 2016. The development office oversees all major fundraising campaigns for the diocese.

“I have always enjoyed the work I have done for the diocese, the incredible people I have had the opportunity to work with, and the donors I have met

throughout the years,” Underhill said.

“This has been a great place to work for me. I have always felt that the church cared about its employees and that the work we accomplished was valued and appreciated.”

Mary Ellen Mahoney, executive development director, praised Underhill for her outstanding work ethic and dedication to the department.

“Sue is passionate about helping people both in and out of the office,” Mahoney said. “Through her community garden, supporting the soup kitchen, membership on her local library board and all her church activities, Sue lives a life of faith and love of others. As the face of the Annual Catholic Appeal, working hard to support all our diocesan ministries, Sue has truly touched the lives of many. While we will miss her dearly, we are happy that she will now be able to enjoy a long, fulfilling retirement.”

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AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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Clergy Appointments Reverend Michael Bovino, Newly Ordained, Parochial Vicar, Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich.

Reverend Michael Castiblanco from Parochial Vicar, Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich, to Parochial Vicar, Corpus Christi Parish, Willimantic.

Reverend Juan Angel Aguirre Palacio from Parochial Vicar, Corpus Christi Parish, Willimantic, to Parochial Vicar, Saint Mary Parish, Clinton.

Reverend Peter J. Langevin, Chancellor

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Catholic Charities is

“An Island of Hope” Catholic Charities is “An Island of Hope” to many these days who are dealing with the physical and financial effects of COVID-19. Catholic Charities provides a place of respite for our clients to weather the Covid-19 storm. The number of clients served by Catholic Charities throughout the Diocese during the pandemic is staggering, and with your help, we are making a difference.

Here is just one example of how your donations and gifts are helping: Robyn’s Story “Dear Catholic Charities, I want to thank you so very much for the generous and thoughtful gifts that you gave to me. I have been struggling for five years. The last four months have been exceptionally difficult. I have put off asking for assistance as I have been selling my things to help make ends meet (almost). My son has a minimum wage job and at 21 has been an incredible blessing to me as well.

Since he faces his own many struggles, I finally sought out your assistance.

My son and I have done our best to help others and never expected to be in this uncomfortable and embarrassing situation. Your kindness is so very much appreciated.

When I opened my donation bags, I started crying! The amount was overwhelming and such a relief. My money can now be used to cover other needs and I can eat less repetitive meals, along with sharing with my son next door.

Thank you for the amount of care that was put into what was chosen for us! I was blown away at what was obvious "meal planning” according to our ages and needs. My son was so excited to have the ingredients to make spaghetti, he cooked Monday night and invited me over for dinner with canned fruit for dessert. He was even more excited to

have leftovers for work the next day. We both appreciate it all so very much.

Once again – THANK YOU! " This is just one of the stories of how working together is making a difference in the lives of our neighbors. There are however others we can’t see, the hidden sufferers. Those that are too proud to reach out and ask for help because they think there is someone who needs the help more than themselves. Won’t you help us help them? Reach out to that relative, neighbor or friend that you haven’t seen in a while. Find out how they are doing. If they seem to be struggling, mention Catholic Charities and the “Help” and “Hope” we can provide. Share the story of Robyn with them. It just might be all that they need to contact us for help.

Another way to help is by making a donation, as funding is one of the biggest challenges that we face. In the first half of the year, Catholic Charities has seen a 65% increases in clients and utility assistance. Emergency meal distribution has increased more than 87%, 127% in rental assistance, and a whopping 163% in infant and youth needs.

Through your generosity, we have been able to meet the needs of those seeking help, but the struggle continues as resources quickly get depleted. We are asking for your help as your gifts and donations play a big role in our ability to help those in need. Your heartfelt contribution, no matter how large or small, will be used to help support our neighbors in need.

Working together with you, our Diocese, our grantors, and our community, Catholic Charities will continue our 99year mission of Providing Help and Creating Hope for our neighbors in need.

Thank you!

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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11

The Work of Christ Being Done Around Me

Ministry Fair Essay Winner Chosen

By Gina Foster, Stewardship Coordinator Before this year’s Ministry Fair was cancelled due to the pandemic, the Office of Development held a contest for 4th and 5th grade students, requiring the submission of an essay entitled, “The Work of Christ Being Done Around Me.” We were so thrilled to receive many excellent essays. The first-place winner, Aedin DiGiacomo, a 5th grader at Saint Patrick Cathedral School, wrote the following:

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

"The Work of Christ Being Done Around Me"

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By Aedin DiGiacomo

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Students in my school are doing kind things and bringing in food from their homes to people who are poor and in need of food. Students in our school bring money in to dress down. They do it because they care about others so they are not lonely on holidays, and one day they can get food, a job, and a home so that they can have a happier life. One place we bring our soup is the Saint Vincent de Paul Soup Kitchen. The teachers love when we all do kind things, so people have a good meal.

One other thing is the Haiti Bike Ride, people ride and raise money for people who need food and a home. On Fridays, Father Tony brings in pizza he buys for us. And some of our money we bring in goes to Australia and to Puerto Rico because of the fires and the animals getting hurt because of the dry land in Australia.

One year the 8th graders made sandwiches for people who are unfortunate and do not have enough food. In my school we have Mass and religion, both help us learn about God and Jesus.

Our teachers are so kind, and they help people in our school by teaching us all the ways God has been kind to people and they want us to be nice to others like God has been nice to us. I think our school is great because the teachers, students and the priest make us feel good about ourselves, if we have an off day and people are getting bullied. I am so happy to be a part of this amazing school.

Congratulations to second-place winner Leonard Gjonbalaj and thirdplace winner Lucy Pollack, both of Saint Patrick Cathedral School, and a special honorable mention to Jeena Ann Kidambi of Saint James School for her wonderful essay. Thank you to all who participated in our contest and we hope to see you next year at the Ministry Fair.

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By Susan Wallace, Director, Outreach to Haiti Haiti has seen more than its share of strife: earthquakes, hurricanes, epidemics, and violent civil unrest. In all my visits to Haiti I have never had a Haitian say to me, “Why us? What did we do to deserve this?” I believe this is due to Haitians having a deep reservoir of hope thanks to their tremendous faith in God. Thanks to our many friends and fellow Catholics, the Director, Outreach to Haiti Outreach to Haiti ministry has been walking alongside the Haitians in Port-au-Prince and providing support for almost forty years. We are a two-fold ministry that employs 21 Haitians to carry out our work in Haiti because our mission is, Haitians Helping Haitians.

I recently asked Jude Cangé, our Director of Operations to talk about life in Haiti right now. He shared the following regarding the past twelve

months. Please note that English is his third language.

“Knowing the Kris Wa community and its surroundings rely heavily on our help to survive, and on the base of our commitment to serving the poorest and most vulnerable people, our staff, like warriors, had braved dangers, gone through inflamed tires, dodged rock shots and moved through violent demonstrations to come and support malnourished children, pregnant women, and school, and university students with fragile socioeconomic conditions.

The Covid-19 made our work more and more complicated. Several people in the Kris Wa community have been infected and some have died. Despite the complexity of the situation, our engagement to serve and our compassion for our Haitian brothers and sisters in great need

encouraged us to give our best to bring hope to those who suffer in their flesh, their soul and their heart because of extremely difficult living conditions. " Thanks to the activities of Norwich Outreach to Haiti, 203 children and young adults were able to attend schools and universities, more than 9,000 doses of vaccine were administrated to about 1,000 children, 157 malnourished children including 89 suffering from acute severe malnutrition have received nutritious food and medicine to help them regain a normal state of health, 214 pregnant women were able to get regular obstetrical care, 190 were benefited from gynecological services, about 1,300 children have received pediatric care, 518 have received various health care services and food kits and masks were distributed to 236 people to facilitate them fighting against the

spread of the Covid-19.

We will continue working hard to help thousands of people in our areas of operation because, for us, we are contributing to something far more important than ourselves: giving hope to this community to help people having a brighter future and contributing to the sustainable development of their country.

Our mission at Outreach to Haiti has never faltered. We commit ourselves daily to the work of helping Haitians help Haitians.”

Our staff in Haiti and the support shown by our friends and fellow Catholics remind us that, “We belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.” (Romans 12:5)

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

We Belong To Each Other…

13

Catholic Foundation Selects Reverend Roughan Scholarship Recipients

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Mary Ellen Mahoney, Director of Development

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The Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Norwich, Inc. is pleased to announce the 2020 recipients of the Reverend Richard F. Roughan Scholarships as Julia Kalrberg, daughter of Mark and Kathleen Karlberg of Waterford, and Payton Sutman, son of Heston and Elizabeth Sutman, also of Waterford. Julia is entering her sophomore year at the University of Rhode Island, where she is majoring in mechanical

engineering. Payton will begin his freshman year at the College of the Holy Cross this fall.

St. Paul Church and complete an essay entitled, “Why My Faith is Important to Me.”

Each year, two students are selected by the Foundation to receive the Reverend Roughan Scholarship. Revered Roughan was a longtime pastor at St. Paul Church in Waterford and established the scholarship through his will. In order to be considered, a student must be a member of

For more information about the scholarship or contributing to the Catholic Foundation, please contact Mary Ellen Mahoney at memahoney@norwichdiocese.net or call (860) 886-1928.

Bishop Cote presents the Reverend Richard Roughan Scholarship winner, Julia Karlberg of Waterford, with a scholarship check at the Cathedral of St. Patrick. The other recipient, Payton Sutman, was unavailable.

Diocese to Recognize Anniversary Couples

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin, Director, Catholic Family Services Because of uncertainties surrounding COVID-19, the public Annual Silver and Golden Wedding Anniversary Mass will not take place this year.

However, a private Mass for the intentions of all couples celebrating specific anniversaries this year will be celebrated by Bishop Michael Cote.

Each couple registering for the Mass

will receive a signed certificate from Bishop Cote. The names of all registrants and their anniversary dates will also be listed on a special anniversary page on the Diocese of Norwich website. Couples may also e-mail a digital photo of themselves to be included in a gallery of pictures on the website.

If you are celebrating a milestone anniversary this year and would like to be recognized by Bishop Cote, please register by sending the following information: husband and wife’s names, address, telephone number, wedding date, anniversary being celebrated and parish to: MaryJo McLaughlin, Catholic Family

Services Coordinator, 199 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360 or e-mail at mmclaughlin@norwichdiocese.net or by telephone at (860) 848-2237, ext. 312. The registration deadline is September 2, 2020.

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AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Inspired by Family, Guided by God

Photos and story by Ryan Blessing, FCC Senior Writer

A ceremony steeped in tradition but carried out unlike any other on record took place June 27 at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich, when the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, ordained Stonington native Reverend Michael Bovino to the priesthood.

Father Bovino’s ordination was unique from others in that it was the first -- and God willing perhaps only -- priestly ordination within the Diocese of Norwich to take place under the restrictions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.

The usually large public gathering that fills the cathedral gave way this year to a smaller audience of family, priests and deacons invited to attend

by Father Bovino. Face masks were worn and other measures of social distancing were in place.

The Mass was streamed online to 16 give others a chance to witness the

ordination at ‘watch parties’ from churches and homes.

Attending to watch the ordination, in person, were Father Bovino’s family, including his parents, Paula and Michael, and brothers Thomas and Steven, and online by brother Christopher.

The Rite of Ordination began with the Presentation of the Elect by Reverend Gregory Galvin, the vocations director for the diocese. Father Galvin proclaimed that the elect was found worthy of priesthood.

“Relying on the help of the Lord God and our Savior Jesus Christ, we choose Michael Patrick Bovino, our brother, for the Order of the Priesthood,” Bishop Cote said.

All present stood and applauded to show their consent.

“Your applause tells me you are almost as happy as I am at this moment,” Bishop Cote said. “What a blessing to experience, once again, God’s tenderness toward the Church of Norwich.”

As the litany of supplication was sung, the elect prostrated himself before the altar as all present, through

the intercession of the saints, asked for God’s grace to be upon the new priest.

Bishop Cote then laid his hands upon the head of the elect. It was through this laying on of hands that the sacrament of Holy Orders was conferred. This was followed by the recitation of the prayer of ordination.

The Very Reverend Dennis Perkins, pastor of St. Michael the Archangel Church in Pawcatuck, Connecticut, vested Father Bovino in the stole and chasuble.

To conclude the rite, Bishop Cote and the priests in attendance gave Father Bovino a fraternal hug, sealing his admittance into the ministry.

Father Bovino then imparted his blessing on Bishop Cote and extended his blessing to members of his family. Father Bovino also blessed the attendees in the Cathedral.

Bishop Cote announced that Father Bovino’s first assignment as a priest would be as Parochial Vicar of the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, effective July 16, the Feast of Our Lady of Mount Carmel.

Bovino was raised in a strong family of faith. His grandfather,

Mario, influenced his decision to answer the call to become a priest.

“He certainly played a big role in helping me foster my relationship with the Lord,” Bovino wrote. “And especially in my discernment of the priesthood.”

As his interest in the priesthood deepend during college, Father Bovino recalled that his grandparents attended daily Mass.

“It was their example that caused me to consider going to daily Mass during the week myself,” he wrote.

“I am sure that my grandfather’s silent prayers to the Lord were that I would become a priest, and it seems like his prayers were answered through God’s grace.”

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Reverend Michael Bovino Ordained to the Priesthood

17

Ministry to the Sick Shows God’s Presence and the Power of Prayer

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Gina Foster, Stewardship Coordinator

18

It has been a long six months for most of us. I hope that you have enjoyed your summer and been able to participate in some safe socialdistancing outdoor activities. As we move forward together as “One Faith, One Family,” this crisis has provided a new perspective.

Most people know someone affected

by COVID-19, and some have experienced the loss of a friend or family member to the disease. People have been out of work or have lost their jobs or businesses. Tragically, I lost my great-aunt to the illness.

It was very difficult for our family, especially for her sons, who could not be with her while she was sick.

We had a very small social distancing funeral, all wearing masks, standing six feet apart. We could not hug each

other or hold hands.

Although this was very sad and difficult, we were buoyed by the overwhelming support we received from friends, family and co-workers offering to pray for us. We received phone calls, e-mails and cards. God was always present, and the power of prayer was always with us. Friends and family were still spiritually present when they could not be with us.

The Diocese of Norwich Ministry to the Sick is a fine example of God’s presence and the power of prayer.

The ministry endeavors to meet the spiritual needs of hospitalized patients regardless of religious affiliation, and especially ministers to those who are critically ill or who

have specific pastoral care needs.

While COVID-19 prevented Sister Rita Johnson, director of Ministry to the Sick and chaplain at Backus Hospital, from being with patients during the shutdown, she remained spiritually present and in touch with them. Her dedication to her ministry was evident daily as she talked with patients by phone and prayed for them and their families. In addition, Sister Rita attended televised Mass every day and spent many hours praying for patients as well as the diocese and the world. Thankfully, Sister Rita is again attending to patients in the hospital, giving them her spiritual support and love.

Regarding those she works with, Sister Rita shared, “The doctors, nurses and support staff have such

courage, because they believe in the value of life.”

Ministry to the Sick and other diocesan ministries continue to do important work thanks to the generosity of our many donors to our “One Faith, One Family” 2020 Annual Catholic Appeal. If you have already given, thank you for your support.

If you have not yet contributed, we ask you to prayerfully consider how you are best able to help our ministries. You may participate in the collection in church, give online at NorwichDioceseDevelopment.org or make a gift or pledge by calling Heather Harris, campaign manager at the Office of Development, at (860) 886-1928, extension 111. Thank you so much.

Spiritual Renewal Ministry Offers Compassionate Care and Prayer "Come To Me All Who Are Weary And I Will Give You Rest."

Matthew 11:28

By Judith Hughes, Co-Director of Spiritual Renewal Services Spiritual Renewal Ministry has been active in the diocese for more than 40 years.

Our mission is to help people develop a closer relationship with Jesus and the Holy Spirit, by offering spiritual programs such as parish missions, Life in the Spirit seminars, retreats, Masses of Healing and Hope, and

Healing and Freedom conferences, to name a few.

We are living in a very difficult time, dealing with a pandemic health crisis, financial problems, and isolation. What do we do?

Where do we go? How do we cope?

We know God is always there to help us in any situation. At times we

need to take the initiative. Often, we can help ourselves, but at times we need others to help us.

This ministry has a dedicated team of compassionate and caring members available to help you.

Due to social distancing they are available to pray with you over the telephone. Please call the Spiritual

Renewal Office at 860-887-0702, and one of the following members will return your call: John Bass, Donna Marotto, Glenn Miller, Rita Patten or Judith Hughes. All conversations are confidential.

Don’t delay, pick up your phone and and give us a call. We look forward to hearing from you.

67th Annual Blessing of the Fleet: The Tradition Continues

The tradition of the annual Blessing of the Fleet in Stonington continued this year, albeit with a much smaller crowd and scaled-back ceremonies.

The blessing remembers local fishermen who have died at sea and honors the vessels -- along with their captains, owners, crews and families -- that will go out to sea in the year ahead.

The gathering took place July 26 after a Fishermen’s Mass in St. Mary Church in Stonington Borough. The Mass was streamed live on the internet for the many who could not attend because of COVID-19 restrictions on public assemblies.

Following the Mass, The Reverend Dennis Perkins and the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, joined the families of fishermen and local officials at the borough’s fishing dock.

Bishop Cote said a blessing for the safety of the fishermen and the important but sometimes dangerous work that they do on the water, and family members of deceased fishermen laid wreaths at the fishermen’s memorial. The Mystic Highland Pipe Band was on hand to play ‘Amazing Grace.’

After the ceremony, Bishop Cote walked to each fishing boat at the docks and blessed it with holy water. Then, the Bishop joined some of the fishermen and their families on the fishing vessel Heritage, which steamed out past the breakwater. There, a wreath in the shape of a broken anchor, commemorating the 39 members of the Stonington Fishermen Association who perished at sea while doing their jobs, was cast into the water

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Photos and story by Ryan Blessing, FCC Senior Writer

19

40 DAYS FOR LIFE IS RETURNING IN SEPTEMBER

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Father Brian Maxwell

20

There has been a lot of attention to human injustice in our news as of late. But regarding the respect and protection of the most vulnerable, the unborn babies in mother’s wombs, little is being reported or broadcast.

Abortion continues to be the most significant human rights violation of our time. And we are never going to give up, until this changes, as we pray and witness against the taking of innocent human lives.

The 40 Days For Life Campaign this year runs from Wednesday, September 23rd thru Sunday, November 1st. We commence the campaign with a ProLife Mass at St. Patrick’s Cathedral on Tuesday, September 22, at 7 PM. More than ever, we invite you to join us in praying at our Peaceful Prayer Vigil at the Planned Parenthood facility at 12 Case St. in Norwich during these 40 days. As the Vigil is

held OUTSIDE on the sidewalk, this us on our website - norwichdiocese. makes for a safe-environment and we org/40daysforlife encourage the use of masks and social Our prayerful presence shows our distancing when near or passing others. compassion toward those who may Look for parish announcements in find themselves in a stressful situation. the coming weeks for your parish’s It’s all about Praying for the Changing adopted-day and sign-up, or call or of Hearts and Minds - that Mothers will email your parish office and ask to get choose LIFE! Together, we can standin touch with your parish’s Pro-Life up and pray for our world - where the representative. You may also express beauty, dignity, and sanctity of every your interest in helping organize human life is valued and protected! your parish’s participation. Follow

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

Academic Excellence. Character. Self-Confidence.

Saint Bernard School Online Summer Studies Program

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Kim Hodges, Director of Admissions Saint Bernard School launched a new online studies program to encourage students to stay engaged with learning and stay connected to the school during the summer.

and the summer program coordinator for the school.

“This new program was designed to give students and parents those opportunities in a safe, but rigorous academic environment.”

In addition to opening the online classes to all residents of Southeastern Connecticut, Saint Bernard School officials partnered with schools in other parts of the world to allow students to participate.

The program allowed students to enroll in online courses for credit and as academic enrichment and was open to current Saint Bernard students and middle school or high schoolaged students interested in participating. The virtual classes were taught in realtime to resemble the look and feel of a classroom.

Courses were taught by a Saint Bernard faculty member or professors from a local college.

Subjects ranged from general interest classes such as creative writing to more specialized topics such as constitutional law, Chinese influence in Latin America, intimations of infinity, economics, and computer science. Enrichment classes included SAT preparation, writing the college essay, survey of advanced mathematics, competitive math, and study skills. The courses were offered on a staggered basis throughout the summer.

“This summer program was part of our school’s wider mission to serve the needs of students not just at our school but throughout the region,” Cyr said. “We received positive responses from families happy to have this opportunity and added extra class sections to accommodate that interest.”

“We recognized a need in our own school and the region for students to stay connected to each other and their education over the summer,” said Holly Cyr, school counselor at Saint Bernard

Constitutional Law teacher Ted Kenyon

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich

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

211 Broadway, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-889-4174 st-patrickschoolnorwich.org

Doris Messina, Principal

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For more information about Saint Bernard School, please visit the school website at saintbernardschool.org or call 860-848-1271.

Sharon Stewart , Principal

St. John School, Old Saybrook

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

Academy of the Holy Fa

Mother Mary David, SCMC 54 West Main St, Baltic, C Phone: 860-822-9272 www.ahfbaltic.org

C, Principal CT

Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal

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

Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck

Doris Messina, Principal

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

.

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

Superintendent's Office My Dear Friends, We at the Diocese of Norwich School Office hope you are enjoying your summer. The diocese has made the decision to open schools for the 2020/2021 school year. The decision was made taking into consideration current information and guidance given to us by the Connecticut State Department of Education. Each of our schools will be taking every reasonable precaution possible to ensure the safety of all students, faculty and staff.

St. Joseph School

Due to the smaller populations in comparison to most public-school systems, our Catholic schools are uniquely able to implement the recommendations of the Department of Education and the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.

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

Since the beginning of this pandemic, we have witnessed the unwavering dedication of our faculty and staff members as well as the understanding and compassionate support from the families in our communities. We are truly appreciative of their steadfast commitment to each of our schools and their respective missions.

May God bless and keep you safe and healthy.

Dr. Gail Kingston

Registration is ongoing, please call for information

Dr. Gail Kingston Interim Superintendent of Schools Diocese of Norwich School Office

Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic Mother Mary David, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic, CT Phone: 860-822-9272 ahfbaltic.org

St. Joseph School 25 Squire St New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-442-1720

Mercy High School, Middletown

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

mercyhigh.com

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

xavierhighschool.org

Diocesan School Office

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

amily, Baltic

St. Bernard School, Uncasville

St. Joseph School, Baltic

25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT Phone: 860-887-4086

norwichdso.org

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Xavier SAC President Has Many Goals “I love Xavier and I want to make it better than it already is.”

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Jeff Otterbein

24

Ryan Solomon, elected Students Activities Council president for the 2020-2021 school year, has no shortage of ideas.

His job is to work with the SAC board, SAC moderator, administration and faculty to coordinate activities for the student body and generate enthusiasm.

He’s ready.

“I wanted to become SAC president because I love Xavier" Solomon said. “I am more than excited to take on this new challenge. As president, I hope to institute student section contests and prizes, hold social media raffles, improve class nights, have e-sports tournaments, and host a monthly podcast. We want to get the student body

engaged as much as possible and generate more school spirit.”

Solomon said he wants to be approachable so any student can offer an idea. An important part of the job is to report suggestions arising from students to the moderator, Administrative Assistant Lisa Keereweer, for consideration.

Solomon is a member of the National Honor Society and the Xavier hockey team. Also elected to the SAC board for the next school year were Liam Houchin, vice president; Peter Mercugliano, secretary; and Connor Silbo, treasurer.

Class officers also were elected.

They are senior class President

Donny Frost and Vice President Dan Lyons; junior class President Sheel Vallam and Vice President Luke Solomon; and sophomore class President Brendan Peary and Vice President Ryan Chrostowski.

“Xavier has been a life-changing experience for me,” Solomon said.

“It's clear that the friendships and connections you make here go way beyond the doors of the school.

Xavier preaches that tradition never graduates, and it couldn't be more true. Xavier encourages you to take risks and go out of your comfort zone in order to reach your full potential.”

This year, of course, changed everyone’s life. The COVID-19 pandemic stopped the world in its tracks. Almost.

SAC President and hockey player Ryan Solomon

An Education You Can Believe In.

Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community.

Embracing Service. Living Faith.

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

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

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

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

Xavier"Tech Week" Prepares Freshmen

By Jeff Otterbein With more than 80 incoming students signed up for summer school and restrictions on classroom sizes because of COVID-19, Xavier High School in Middletown decided the best way to manage the process was to have online learning.

● How to download and access Outlook and Office Lens on their phones, so students can take and send PDF scans of handwritten work when necessary.

Yet, there was the realization that these students would not know Xavier’s OnCampus technology system. Thus, the impetus for “Tech Week” was born.

The technology committee at Xavier, headed by Director of Systems Technology Tim Kramar and Director of Educational Technology Kelsey Doherty, was assisted by teachers Andrew Gargano, Debbie Gargano, Bill Braychak, Andy Mule, Jim Markham, Kelly Walsh and Paul Kieda, who taught one-hour sessions daily from June 22-26.

Teacher Jim Markham instructs from home during Tech Week at Xavier.

Live virtual tech sessions were held each morning so students could become accustomed to OnCampus and Microsoft 365. Microsoft 365 is provided to the students by the school.

enrichment; to practice reading and math skills (depending on entrance exam scores and middle school grades); and to get ahead and move beyond classes like Spanish I or Algebra I if they took a course in middle school and scored well in “The kids got up; they don’t have to placement tests. get up in the morning … it’s summer, so I give them credit,” Andrew Here is what students learned during Gargano said. “They’re going to Tech Week: have a leg up on technology that will help them throughout the school ● Microsoft Teams, Xavier’s virtual year.”

As Gargano said, students are well-versed in various forms of technology, from social media to video games, but not always in how to use technology formally in a school or office setting. These are skills that go a long way in life.

“It also allowed us to get to know the kids,” Gargano said.

There are various reasons incoming freshmen take summer classes: for

meeting software through which teachers and students can meet faceto-face as a group. ● OnCampus, the learning management system at Xavier. ● Office 365, a free Microsoft Office package that comes with each student account. ● OneDrive, a document/file storing program within Office 365.

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“It was challenging; you lose the personal touch so anything to gain that personal touch was important,” Gargano said. “I know I felt this way and I heard kids say, ‘I never thought I couldn’t wait to get back to school.’ ”

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Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony

Holy St Anthony gentlest of Saints. Your love for God and charity for His creators made you worthy when on earth posses miraculous power which you were ready to speak for those who are in trouble or anxiety.

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 heart is full of human sympathy whisper my petition into the ears of sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. This 13 day Novena has never been known to fail. Say three Hail Mary's and three Glories and promise publication.

~ SS ~

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Gargano and the other teachers were accustomed to teaching online, having done so since March to close out the 2019-2020 school year.

Gargano made sure he had virtual office hours and ways to reach out to the students, not only for questions on subject matter but to chat about everything from sports to movies.

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AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Knights of Columbus Present 2020 College Scholarships

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Michael, Katie and Lynn Zimmer

Jeanine, Joseph and John Marcin

By Joe Langenfeld The Knights of Columbus Belltown Council 6190 was pleased to present our two 2020 college scholarships of $1,000 each to Katie Zimmer, daughter of Lynn and Michael Zimmer, and Joseph Marcin, son of Jeanine and John Marcin. Katie will be attending Fairfield University with a major in nursing.

Joseph will be attending Fordham University majoring in biology with a focus on pre-med.

This year the competition was very close, and the council decided to also award two runners up with scholarships of $500 each. Lauren Annelli, daughter of Susan and Christopher Annelli, will attend Shenandoah University with a major in Occupational Therapy. Noah Gibson, son of Stacey and Eric Gibson, will attend the University of Hartford with a major in risk management.

The scholarship candidates were measured on academic achievement, community involvement, parish involvement, financial need, and essay quality. The Knights of Columbus wish all the candidates much success in the future.

St. Mary Chapel MauSoleuM at

E C I T O N

TEL

St. Mary CeMetery, NorwiCh

An inspiring response to the growing popularity of above ground entombment.

Please Contact

Catholic Charities Records Attention: Terri Fontaine 331 Main Street, Norwich, CT 06360

Fath Bishop Cote celebrating Memorial Day Mass at St. Mary’s Mausoleum, Norwich

A reminder of the eternal love, fellowship and faith that we share.

The Chapel Mausoleum provides loved ones and friends indoor visitation in a peaceful and holy setting. All within a faithfully maintained Catholic cemetery. As people of faith, our burial places share an important meaning for us, since they are sacred places.

Call 860-887-1019 to learn more about a distinguished and cost comparable alternative final resting place for individuals, couples or families.

Cemeteries@NorwichDiocese.net

Blessed are those who mourn, ADDRESS CHANGES for they shall be comforted.

Please be sure to notify us of an address change, 5:4 name change of a recipient orMatthew a request to discontinue receiving the newspaper.

You may notify us via email at subscriptions@norwichdiocese. net 860-887-3933.

If you are grieving the lossor of call a loved one, join us for one of two upcoming Thank you for helping us maintain workshops and learn ways to grow through the accurate experience ofmailing your loss information to better serve you.

Praying Your Goodbyes

PRAYER INTENTION The Maritime World We pray for all those who work and live from the sea, among them sailors, fishermen and their families.

Thursday, November 7, 9am-Noon St. Sebastian Parish Hall, 155 Washington St., Middletown or Saturday, November 9, 1-4pm. St. Mary Church Hall, 70 Central Ave., Norwich Both workshops will include time for personal reflection, prayer and journaling and tips on how to navigate the upcoming holidays Both workshops are free, but registration is required.

To register, call Marianne at 860-848-2237, Ext. 304.

Or email her at: manicholas @norwichdiocese.net

Sponsored by the Diocese of Norwich Catholic Family Services Office

- Pope Francis

When You Support Our Advertisers, You Support Our Ministries

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Faith in Action 'Blessing Bags’ Deliver Hope

As a service project, faith formation students at St. Luke Church, Ellington, collected snacks, toiletries, water bottles and socks to fill 117 Blessing Bags that were donated to guests at homeless shelters in Rockville, Manchester and Hartford. Each bag also included decorated index cards with Bible verses and inspirational quotes that were made by the students.

Catechetical Leader Kim Bocchino’s goal was to create 100 Blessing Bags for the area’s homeless. 117 bags are ready for distribution to shelters in Rockville, Manchester and Hartford. The bags were part of a service project for faith formation students at St. Luke Church, Ellington

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin, Catholic Family Services Blessings come in various ways, but for 117 homeless people in Connecticut, blessings came in Ziploc bags.

“Blessing Bags” was a way to get everyone – students in Kindergarten through grade 9 and their families – involved.

As a service project for faith formation, students at St. Luke Church, Ellington, collected snacks, toiletries and warm socks to create 117 “Blessing Bags” for homeless centers in Rockville, Manchester and Hartford. The idea was the brainchild of the parish’s catechetical leader, Kim Bocchino. One of the parts of the diocese’s new faith formation curriculum is the emphasis on age-appropriate service projects 28 for all students. Creating the

In keeping with Jesus’ message in Matthew 25: “For I was hungry and you gave me food, I was thirsty and you gave me drink,” Bocchino said, “I think it’s important for students to know we need to care for others. We try to teach our students that God is living in all of us; therefore, we need to care for everyone.”

Each class was assigned a particular item to donate for the project, including Ziploc bags, snack-sized peanut butter and

cheese crackers, water bottles, Slim Jims, toothbrushes, travelsized toothpaste and hand wipes, granola bars and trail mix.

Monetary donations were also accepted and used to put $5 to $10 gift cards for a fast-food restaurant or supermarket into some of the bags.

In addition, the parish collected 93 pairs of socks to include in most of the bags. Students wrote and decorated index cards with Bible verses and inspirational quotes that were put into each bag. “Our goal was to make 100 bags, and we were able to fill 117,” Bocchino said,

acknowledging the generosity and support of the students and their families.

When the project began in late February, the plan was for students in grade six to collate the items and fill the bags. The bags would then be given to families and parishioners to keep in their cars and pass them on when they encountered someone in need. However, when the order to shelter in place came in mid-March due to COVID-19, Bocchino and another parish staff member assembled the bags and donated them to local shelters.

One of the recipients was The House of Bread, a ministry serving the hungry, homeless, and needy in Hartford. In a thank you note for the bags, Sisters Maureen Faenza and Theresa Fonti, co-directors, wrote, “How very thoughtful and kind of you to send so many gift bags filled with all necessary items for the guests who come to the House of Bread…It is so comforting to know that the needy in Hartford are not forgotten. Truly you are responding to the Gospel call to care and assist those who are less fortunate than ourselves.”

Faith Formation Recommendations Outline Guidelines for Classes

By Andrea Hoisl, Director of Faith Events

With the beginning of the school year approaching and the COVID-19 numbers still growing in different parts of the country, we are faced with rethinking the way faith formation is presented in our parishes. The traditional methods used in classrooms will not be acceptable nor realistic in September. We are now challenged to have plans in place that include distance learning as well as in-person instruction. We need to provide opportunities for people of all ages to grow in their faith while maintaining social distancing guidelines. Although the current pandemic offers many obstacles, it also presents many ways for us to change and grow spiritually.

“It will all look very different, but the message will be the same,” - Liza Roach, youth and young adult minister

One of the important topics mentioned in the recommendations is becoming familiar with the Office of Safe Environment guidelines on video conferencing. These include the following: ● All video conferencing invitations must be sent to parents

and not directly to students. ● Parishes should not publicly post faith formation invitations on a website, social media platform, etc. ● No one-to-one video chats are allowed between any adults and children or youth.

● There must be at least two safe environments trained and certified adults in any video conference with students.

(Further information to follow).

Last month, the OFE hosted several webinars for catechetical leaders and catechists to help them become more comfortable with using technology necessary for remote learning. These included webinars on using Cisco Webex and Zoom for video conferencing, using Microsoft

Forms and best practices and etiquette for online classes. All of these webinars were recorded and can be accessed at the Office of Faith Events link on the Diocese of Norwich website.

For more information about the faith formation recommendations or the webinars, please contact the OFE at faithevents@ norwichdiocese.net, view our events page on the diocesan website or call us at (860) 8482237, ext. 304.

SAINT BERNARD SCHOOL

Accepting Applications for the Fall of 2021 !

Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony

Holy St Anthony gentlest of Saints. Your love for God and charity for His creators made you worthy when on earth posses miraculous power which you were ready to speak for those who are in trouble or anxiety.

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 heart is full of human sympathy whisper my petition into the ears of sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. This 13 day Novena has never been known to fail. Say three Hail Mary's and three Glories and promise publication.

~ EB ~

LEARN: During this time our campus is open to visitors by appointment only. If you can’t visit our campus in person, we invite you to get to know us through our website, videos and virtual meetings.

GROW: Our Admissions Office remains open and we are still actively taking applications and processing enrollments. Ask us about our Tailored Tuition Program to help meet your family’s unique financial situation.

DISCOVER: To schedule a virtual or phone meeting or a private tour for middle school or international admission, contact Cathy Brown at cbrown@saint-bernard.com.

For admission to the high school please contact Kim Hodges at khodges@saint-bernard.com.

SAINT BERNARD SCHOOL • Grades 6–12 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke • Uncasville, CT 06382 860-848-1271 • www.saintbernardschool.org

WE ARE ALSO STILL ACCEPTING APPLICATIONS FOR FALL OF 2020.

AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

The Office of Faith Events recently released Recommendations for Faith Formation 2020-2021, to help parishes begin planning for faith formation programs in the fall. Schools and parishes in Connecticut are organizing their district plans for the 2020-21 school year. It was four months ago when our parish faith formation programs stopped, leaving the sacraments of first Reconciliation, first Holy Eucharist and Confirmation uncelebrated. As an office, we began reaching out to families and adults. Communicating through Webex and Zoom became our new norm and we all became acclimated to online gatherings to share ideas and support each other.

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Fai th Sparks

Positive Aspects of Technology Can Enhance Spirituality AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Liza Roach, Youth and Young Adult Minister

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As a young child, I remember my grandfather having a truck with two gas caps on it. I always wondered why this was so. Did the truck need a second fluid to run, was there something about the truck that made it special, or did it just need extra gas to function? Puzzled after investigating this many times, I asked my Dad about my grandfather’s truck.

He told me how in 1973, gasoline supplies ran low and people began to panic about buying gas. Motorists had to wait hours in line just to get a few gallons for their car.

At the time, we lived in the farmlands of New Hampshire and had to drive long distances just to get to the market. Another gas shortage

happened in 1979. Both these situations compelled my family to be more prepared. My grandfather put two gas tanks in his car and my father began driving diesel cars, which had better gas mileage. This taught me a great lesson about the importance of preparing for the future. When technology began to make its way into our classrooms, work, and homes, I learned all about the possibilities it could offer.

While some may say too much technology is limiting social interactions among people and that the art of conversation is being lost to generations who only know how to communicate via texts or through social media, I see technology as something

positive. It is a forum, which if used properly and in moderation, can bring people closer together rather than drive them further apart. This became clear to me during the shutdown mandates because of COVID-19.

When the coronavirus closed our churches, many of us used technology to ensure the virus did not shut down our spirituality. Churches live-streamed Masses, faith formation classes were held virtually online, as were spiritual retreats, workshops, and so much more. Access to resources that could enhance our faith experiences is as easy as a click away. At one point here in the Diocese of Norwich, there was more going on in a week virtually

than we could offer locally.

Jesus was a rabbi and a teacher. He expected that all his followers would be open to learning and deepening their faith through whatever means were available to them.

Through the creative genius of many people utilizing their God-given gifts, we have the technology to unite people across continents and throughout the world. As we return to worship services in our church buildings, let us be open to new avenues of enhancing our faith journey through technology. Take time to investigate ways to help your Catholic faith grow through the many spiritual resources available on the web, Facebook, Zoom, webinars, or other

Ignite Your Faith.

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks for more resources

avenues. You can have daily Scripture readings emailed to your cell phone, as well as stories about the Saint of the Day, inspiring meditations, and online retreats. There is truly something for everyone!

Parker

parkermemorials@yahoo.com

Message of Truth Endures Pope Francis’ Prayer for

Truthful Communication Lord, make us instruments of your peace.

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

Help us to remove the venom from our judgements.

You are faithful and trustworthy; may our words be seeds of goodness for the world:

By Wayne Gignac, Editor In his 2018 message for the 52nd World Communications Day, Pope Francis said, “Communication is part of God’s plan for us and an essential way to experience fellowship. Made in the image and likeness of our Creator, we are able to express and share all that is true, good, and beautiful. We are able to describe our own experiences and the world around us, and thus to create historical memory and the understanding of events. But when we yield to our own pride and selfishness, we can also distort the way we use our ability to communicate. This can be seen from the earliest times, in the biblical stories of Cain and Abel and the Tower of Babel (cf. Gen 4:416; 11:1-9). The capacity to twist the truth is symptomatic of our condition, both as individuals and communities.

On the other hand, when we are faithful to God’s plan, communication becomes an effective expression of our responsible search for truth and our pursuit of goodness.”

where there is shouting, let us practice listening; Currently, when nearly everyone has the ability to create and/or share content on social media, it is important that we are careful what we post. Pope Francis invites everyone, “to promote a journalism of peace. . .. a journalism that is truthful and opposed to falsehoods, rhetorical slogans, and sensational headlines.

A journalism created by people for people, one that is at the service of all, especially those – and they are the majority in our world – who have no voice. A journalism less concentrated on breaking news than on exploring the underlying causes of conflicts, in order to promote deeper understanding and contribute to their resolution by setting in place virtuous processes. A journalism committed to pointing out alternatives to the escalation of shouting matches and verbal violence.”

Drawing inspiration from St. Francis, with the following prayer we might turn to the Truth in person:

where there is confusion, let us inspire harmony; where there is ambiguity, let us bring clarity; where there is exclusion, let us offer solidarity; where there is sensationalism, let us use sobriety; where there is superficiality, let us raise real questions; where there is prejudice, let us awaken trust; where there is hostility, let us bring respect; where there is falsehood, let us bring truth.

Amen.

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AUGUST 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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