Volume 26 Number 11
December 2014
Made Possible in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Let us go forward, asking God’s blessing, but realizing here on earth, God’s work is truly our own.
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- President John F. Kennedy as quoted by Father Ray Introvigne honoring the U.S. Servicemen and women at the Annual Red, White and Blue Mass.
Four County
atholic at c Serving the Counties of Middlesex New London Tolland Windham & Fishers Island NY
Established in 1989 and published each month except July. Publisher
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I felt overwhelmed to be at the place of Jesus’ last day on earth...
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- Father Michael Smith, Pastor of the Holy Family in Hebron and St. Columba in Columbia, describing his pilgrimage to the Holy Land.
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- Archbishop Charles J. Chaput anticipating Pope Francis’ visit to Philadelphia in September.
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A Christian brings peace to others...
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- Pope Francis tweeting out a message of peace, kindness and love.
On the Cover “O Holy Night” lyrics as composed by Adolphe-Charles Adam in 1847. The world in 2014 has been weary with so much unrest. There is hope. Christmas is the time to rejoice.
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The deadline for advertising is the second Monday of the preceding month. (Discount rate available to Diocesan-sponsored ministries and programs.) The editorial deadline is the third Monday of the preceding month. Articles limited to 500-word max; letters to the editor limited to 200-word max and must include name, address and phone number for verification. Email photos as JPEG attachments and MS Word copy to comtrina@norwichdiocese.net or fax to 860.859.1253. Publication not guaranteed. The Editor reserves the right to reject, omit or edit all editorial and advertising copy. Published opinions and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of this newspaper.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
The Most Reverend
Michael R. Cote, D.D.
Bishop of Norwich
The Gift of Light and Hope My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: Recently, I came across an article regarding a discovery at the public library in nearby Fall River. It seems that while they were going through some old books in the library attic, the assistant librarian noticed a slip of paper that had been stowed away in an old book about the Statue of Liberty. It turns out that the item found in the book was an original invitation to then Mayor of Fall River, the Honorable Robert T. Davis, to attend the inauguration of the Statue of Liberty in August of 1886. There it was, perfectly preserved and legible all these years later. The title of the monument immediately caught my attention. It wasn’t referred to as the Statue of Liberty. It was called “Liberty Enlightening the World.” I had never heard the official name before seeing it in print on the invitation. The blessing of freedom, as the statue’s formal name suggests, can enlighten minds and hearts in every corner of the world. My interest having been captured, I proceeded to look into the history of that historic occasion. I came across the speeches given that day by President Grover
Cleveland, several distinguished guests of honor from the Republic of France and attending clergy. Their words were a stunning tribute to a Nation so intent on freedom of the individual and a young Nation so comfortable with acknowledging the presence of God in its founding and development. Representing France, le Ministre Plenipotentiaire, W. A Lefaivre, in his remarks, noted that America’s “only guide and hope were God and liberty.” He went on to say that “to other nations, it (America) eloquently affirms human dignity.” The more speeches I read, the more appreciation I felt for the unique position in the world the United States has always had as the beacon of freedom -- as a people concerned about the dignity of all -- as one nation under God. We are still a young Nation, still working hard to live up to our Constitution. Making progress. Working our way toward fulfilling the idea of a free society of equal opportunity. Freedom is hard work. Fighting for the sanctity of life, human dignity, opportunity for the newest generations of immigrants, family values, as well as caring for the poor and vulnerable
are all Christian principles which are very much part of the hard work of building a free nation. Lately there has been more than a little confusion, much of it stirred by the media, concerning the priorities of the bishops here in the U.S. versus the priorities of the Holy Father, Pope Francis. Some critics have suggested that the bishops’ defense of religious liberty, as with the objectionable health care mandate, is inconsistent with Pope Francis’ focus on mercy and the poor. Actually, it is all very tightly connected. All Catholics in the United States have a relentless good citizenship responsibility to help protect the U.S. Constitution and the freedom of worship provided by the First Amendment. We cannot complacently expect that the beacon of freedom, symbolized by Liberty Enlightening the World, will remain bright and true without our working hard at preserving it. This cause is that of every man, woman and child in this Country -- those of us who are poor or have been poor, those in the middle economically and those more affluent. Unless we have a secure free nation, none of us can enjoy its benefits and its promise to provide
freedom of religion as its first freedom. In a world increasingly beset by violence, chaos and intolerance, the beacon of freedom and justice must remain brighter than ever. This is not a partisan or demographic cause. It is an inter-faith priority. At closer inspection, the other priorities on which my fellow bishops are focused keep the poor and the vulnerable always at heart. Focusing on the family, on immigration, on accessible healthcare that respects rights of conscience, on the sanctity of life – these are all issues that impact the poor. Disproportionately so in fact. It is the poor who are most affected by these causes. Pope Francis is not suggesting we have an either/or condition, i.e. focus on the poor exclusively and not other social justice concerns. The Holy Father is compassionately encouraging us to keep the poor in the forefront of all we do. Be merciful. Don’t let the distractions of a prosperous society interfere with the Christly mission of serving the poor. I can assure you that here in the Diocese of Norwich and across this much blessed Country, we priests, religious and lay faithful are engaged in the hard work of preserving
freedom and lifting the poor and helping them stand with dignity against the challenges before us. When you pause to think about it, aren’t we all just one generation from being poor? Most of us have real stories to tell about our grandparents and their parents who came to this country poor materially, but rich in spirit and strong in faith. The statue “Liberty Enlightening the World” of course has an engraved message precisely to that point, “Give me your tired, your poor, your huddled masses yearning to breathe free.” There is no more generous nation on earth, there is no more caring community than people of faith. Do not lose focus, especially during this holy season of our Lord’s birth in a humble manger, of our continuing commitment to grasp every hand and lift every life within arm’s reach as faithful disciples of Jesus Christ. A very Merry and Holy Christmas, my dear brothers and sisters. Together we pray that the New Year brings the Gift of Light and Hope to all. Sincerely yours in Christ’s love, Bishop Michael R. Cote
Un Regalo de Luz y Esperanza Queridos Hermanos y Hermanas: Recientemente, encontré en la biblioteca pública en la cercana Fall River un artículo pequeño apenas visible con respecto a un descubrimiento. Parece que mientras estaban mirando algunos libros antiguos en el desván de la biblioteca, el bibliotecario auxiliar encontró un trozo de
papel sobre la Estatua de la Libertad que ha estado metido allí en un libro viejo. Inmediatamente esto captó mi atención. Siempre he estado intrigado por cartas guardadas en libros viejos. Hace de repente que cualquier libro sobre cualquier tema sea un libro histórico. Resulta que el artículo encontrado en el libro era
una invitación original al entonces alcalde de Fall River, el honorable Robert T. Davis, para asistir a la inauguración de la estatua en agosto de 1886. Allí estaba, perfectamente conservado y legible todos esos años. El título del monumento de inmediato captó mi atención. No era referido como la Estatua de la
Libertad. Era llamado “Libertad Iluminando el Mundo.’ Nunca había escuchado el nombre oficial completo antes de verlo en forma impresa en la invitación. La bendición de libertad, como el nombre formal de la estatua sugiere, puede iluminar las mentes y los corazones en cada rincón del mundo.
De haber sido captado mi interés, procedí a buscar la historia de esa histórica ocasión. Me encontré con los discursos dados ese día por el presidente Grover Cleveland, varios distinguidos invitados de honor de la República de Francia y el clero Un Regalo de Luz y Esperanza
Continued on page 4
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Un Regalo de Luz y Esperanza Continued from page 3 que asistió. Sus palabras fueron un impresionante homenaje a una Nación tan concentrada en la libertad del individuo y a una Nación joven tan cómoda con el reconocimiento de la presencia de Dios en su creación y desarrollo. Representando Francia, Le Ministre Plenipotentiare, W. A. Lefaivre, en sus observaciones, señaló que “la única guía y esperanza de Estados Unidos de América eran Dios y la libertad.” El llegó a decir que “América afirma elocuentemente a otras naciones la dignidad humana. “Cuantos más discursos leí, más
apreciación sentí por la única posición en el mundo que Estados Unidos siempre ha tenido como faro de libertad-como pueblo preocupado por la dignidad de todoscomo una nación bajo Dios. Seguimos siendo una nación joven, seguimos trabajando duro para vivir de acuerdo con nuestra Constitución. Progresando. Trabajando hacia el cumplimiento de la idea de una sociedad libre de igualdad de oportunidades. La libertad es un trabajo arduo. Luchar por la santidad de la vida, la dignidad humana, la oportunidad para las
nuevas generaciones de inmigrantes, los valores familiares, así como el cuidado de los pobres y vulnerables son los principios católicos que son una parte muy importante del trabajo duro de construir una nación libre. Últimamente ha habido más de un poco de confusión, acerca de las prioridades de los obispos aquí en los E.E.U.U. frente a las prioridades del Santo Padre Francisco, mucha de ella agitada por los medios de comunicación. Algunos críticos han sugerido que la unida defensa de los obispos de la libertad religiosa ame-
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nazada por el mandato de salud como incompatible con el enfoque del Papa Francisco de la misericordia y los pobres. En realidad todo está muy bien conectado. Todos los católicos en los Estados Unidos tienen la incansable responsabilidad de la buena ciudadanía para ayudar a proteger la constitución de Estados Unidos y de la libertad de culto proporcionada por la Primera Enmienda. No podemos esperar complacientemente que el faro de libertad, simbolizado por la Libertad Iluminando el Mundo, siga siendo brillante y verdadero sin nuestro arduo trabajo en su preservación. Esta es la causa de cada hombre, mujer y niño en este paísaquellos de nosotros que son pobres o han sido pobres, aquellos en el medio económicamente y los más ricos. A menos que tengamos una nación libre segura, ninguno de nosotros puede disfrutar de sus beneficios y su promesa de proporcionar la libertad de religión como su primera libertad. En un mundo cada vez más acosado por la violencia salvaje, el caos y la intolerancia, el faro de la libertad y la justicia debe seguir siendo más brillante que nunca. Esto no es una selección de causa partidista o demográfica. También es en gran medida una prioridad interreligiosa. En una inspección más cercana, las otras prioridades en las que están centrados mis compañeros obispos mantienen siempre en el corazón a los pobres y vulnerables. Enfocán-
You have been thinking about it. Let’s talk...
Father Greg Galvin 860-887-9294 www.God-Calls.org Office of Vocations • Diocese of Norwich, CT • vocations@norwichdiocese.net
Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for December That the birth of the Redeemer may bring peace and hope to all people of good will.
dose en la familia, la inmigración, el cuidado de salud accesible que respete los derechos de conciencia, sobre la santidad de la vida-estos son todos los problemas que afectan a los pobres. De manera desproporcionada. Son los pobres los que están más afectados por cómo avanzan estas causas. El Papa Francisco no está sugiriendo que tenemos cualquiera de los dos/o condición, es decir enfoque exclusivo en los pobres y no en otros asuntos de justicia social. El Santo Padre compasivamente nos anima a mantener a los pobres al frente de todo lo que hacemos. Sea misericordioso. No deje que las distracciones de una sociedad próspera interfieran con la Misión de Cristo de servir a los pobres. Le puedo asegurar que aquí en la Diócesis de Norwich y en todo este bendecido país, nosotros, los sacerdotes, religiosos y fieles laicos estamos comprometidos en la ardua labor de preservar la libertad y consolar a los pobres y ayudarles a levantarse con dignidad frente a los desafíos que se nos presenta. Cuando usted hace una pausa para pensar en ello, ¿no somos todos sólo una generación de ser pobres? La mayoría de nosotros tenemos historias reales que contar acerca de nuestros abuelos y sus padres que vinieron a este país materialmente pobres, pero ricos en espíritu, y fuertes en la fe. La estatua “Libertad Iluminando al Mundo”, por supuesto, tiene un mensaje grabado precisamente a ese punto. “Dame tu cansancio, tu pobreza, pueblo oprimido anhelando respirar libertad.” No hay nación más generosa en la tierra, no hay ninguna comunidad más solidaria que los fieles Católicos. No pierda el enfoque, de nuestro continuo compromiso de coger cada mano y levantar cada vida a nuestro alcance como agradecidos discípulos de Jesucristo, especialmente durante esta temporada santa del nacimiento de nuestro Señor en un humilde pesebre. Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas, una Santa y Feliz Navidad. Juntos oramos para que el Año Nuevo traiga el Regalo de Luz y Esperanza para todos. Atentamente en el amor de Cristo, Obispo Michael R. Cote Translated by Paulina Angulo
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Director of Priestly Vocations
Reverend Gregory Galvin Our Third Annual Help a Seminarian Advent Drive is underway! Who are our seminarians? They are: Jeff Ellis, Peter Langevin, Tom Griffin, Juan Aguirre, Frank Gilbert, Deacon Ron Blank and Michael Bovino. What are we helping them with? While they are dedicating themselves to priestly formation and studies they do not have a regular income to take care of personal needs, care of their vehicles, gas, study expenses and such. This annual event is an opportunity to let them know that God’s family is fully behind what they are trying to do for each of us. We can do it prayerfully or through a simple gift card. Each parish in the diocese has received one set of tags to hang on the parish giving tree or to simply hand out to parishioners who want to let their future priests know they want to help. The tags ask you to buy a gift card of any denomination that you can afford for the seminarian you choose. Simply mail the tag and the gift card directly to the Vocation Office before December 23rd. Mark the envelope with the seminarian’s name and we will box them for each man. Then at the Christmas gathering with Bishop Cote on December 29, 2014, each seminarian will receive your Christmas assistance gift. If you did not get one of the tags at your parish and would still like to participate, please just mail a gift card with a note as to which seminarian you would like to have
it presented to and the vocation elves will make sure he gets it. The mailing address to use is: Seminarian Name The Chancery: Vocation Office 201 Broadway Norwich, CT 06360 Ideas for different gift cards include but are not limited to; gas cards, Master card or Visa, CVS, Rite Aide, Wal Mart, Staples, Walgreen, Dunkin Donuts. Please also consider a Spiritual Bouquet. Send a note with a gift of prayer for the seminarian of your choice. You might offer your daily prayers for a week for his intentions, say a rosary for him, pray for him at each Sunday Mass or weekday Mass you attend during the Christmas season. Be creative! Send those also to the above address. Thank you for whatever you can do to continue to show our support to the men who have already taken the step to prepare for a life of preparing souls for Christ and for Heaven.
Vocations Notes: Recent goings on: Jeff Ellis and Peter Langevin both received Candidacy at a beautiful Mass at Mount Saint Mary Seminary on November 21, 2014. Bishop Paul Loverde was the main celebrant of the Mass at which other seminarians from across the country also preparing for diaconate ordination received Candidacy. Frank Gilbert received the Order of Lector on December 8, 2014 at Pope Saint John XXIII Seminary. Juan Aguirre is scheduled to receive both the orders of Lector and Acolyte this coming March at Saint Mary Seminary in Baltimore. Please keep each of our men in your prayers at this time as they
take exams before the end of the semester and their Christmas break. Please especially keep Juan Aguirre in your prayers as he travels home for the first time in a year to visit with family in Medellin Colombia during the Christmas season. We also have had a few new inquiries from
Pope Francis @Pontifex • Recent Tweet A Christian brings peace to others. Not only peace, but also love, kindness, faithfulness and joy.
Holy Hour for Vocations The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour: Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations vocations@norwichdiocese.net
(860) 887-9294
www.God-Calls.com
December 18, 2014 • 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Sacred Heart, Norwichtown
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Reverend Brian Christopher Maxwell, Ordained to Priesthood on May 25, 2013, by the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich
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young men around the diocese regarding a possible vocation to priesthood. That is the fruit of the many prayers so many of you offer each day. Keep up the good work. Have a blessed Advent season, prepare well and have a very Merry Christmas and a happy new year!
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Juan Aguirre Theology English Studies St. Mary Seminary Baltimore MD
Frank Gilbert 1st Year Theology Pope Saint John XXIII National Seminary Weston, MA
Michael Bovino 1st Year Philosophy Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD
Deacon Ron Blank 1st Year Theology Pope Saint John XXIII National S minary Weston, MA
Jeffrey Ellis 3rd Year Theology Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD
Peter Langevin 3rd Year Theology Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD
Thomas Griffin 3rd Year Theology Blessed John XXIII National Seminary Weston, MA
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Four County Catholic December 2014
“In the sixth month, the Angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee, called Nazareth, to a Virgin whose name was Mary…Do not be afraid, Mary, for You have found favor with God. You will conceive and bear a Son, and You shall name Him Jesus (which means “God is with us”). He will be GREAT and will be called, “Son of the Most High”…He will rule over the house of Jacob FOREVER (and the whole wide world), and of His Kingdom...
“...there will be NO END!” Luke 1:26-27, 30-33
Healing and Freedom Conference Saturday, December 6, 2014 – 9:00 am – 5:00 pm Spiritual Renewal Center, 11 Bath St., Norwich, CT Fr Ray, Judith Hughes and Team Must Pre-register at (860) 887-0702 – Donation $25.
Diocesan Prayer Meeting – St. Mary Church, Portland, CT Tuesday, December 9, 2014 @ 7:30 pm (45 Freestone Ave-Church Hall) All parishes and Prayer Groups are invited Speaker Fr. Paul Boudreau, Pastor
Merry Christmas Thursday, December 25, 2014 – Thank You Jesus! Happy New Year Thursday, January 1, 2015 – Thank You Jesus! Leaders and Prayer Group Members Meeting – Part I
Saturday, January 3, 2015 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Spiritual Renewal Services Center, 11 Bath St., Norwich, CT
Friday-Sunday, December 19-21 Grief Retreat “Come to me all who labor and are heavily burdened and I will give you rest…” with Sr. Eugenia Brady, SJC. For more information or to register, please call St. Edmund’s Retreat at 860-5360565 or visit our website at www.endersisland.com. Saturday, January 3 Leaders and Prayer Group Members Meeting – Part I From 9:00am to 3:00pm. Spiritual Renewal Services Center, 11 Bath St., Norwich. For more information please call 860-88-0702. Saturday, January 10 Leaders and Prayer Group Members Meeting – Part II From 9:00am to 3:00pm Spiritual Renewal Services Center, 11 Bath St., Nor-
wich. For more information please call 860-88-0702. Friday-Sunday, January 9-11 Annual Convocation for the Permanent Deacons in the Diocese of Norwich The Annual Convocation for Permanent Deacons and their wives will be held at the Immaculata Retreat Center in Willimantic. It will be a time for all Permanent Deacons and their wives to gather with their Bishop for spiritual renewal, support and education. The theme of this year’s Convocation is “Preaching the Gospel – Sharing the Good News.” Our key presenter and convocation leader will be Father David Garcia who is coming from San Antonio, TX. Bishop Cote emphasized the importance of this annual gathering and in-
Leaders and Prayer Group Members Meeting – Part II
Saturday, January 9, 2015 from 9:00 am to 3:00 pm Spiritual Renewal Services Center, 11 Bath St., Norwich, CT
Parish Mission of Renewal and Evangelization
February 23, 23, 24, 2015 For St. Joseph Church Chester, and Our Lady of Sorrows, Essex Last year in Essex – This year in Chester also
One Day Life In The Spirit Seminar Chester, CT - February 28
Prayer, Praise, Worship and Adoration Every Tuesday Evening at 6:30 pm Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich, CT
“Everyone’s welcomed to these programs!
spiritual renewal services Diocese of Norwich
Dial-A-Prayer (860) 887-7767
P.O. Box 6 • 11 Bath Street Norwich, CT 06360 • (860) 887-0702 email: Renewal@catholicweb.com
The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy and diocesan appointments in the Diocese of Norwich:
Clergy Appointments Reverend Brian Romanowski, from Canon Law Studies at Catholic University, to the Tribunal of the Diocese of Norwich, Advocate, with Residence at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich. Effective November 17, 2014. ~ Monsignor Robert L. Brown, Chancellor ~
vites all Pastors to concelebrate with him on Friday, January 9th, 2015 at 7:00 PM at the Immaculata Retreat Center. This will be followed by Dinner with Bishop Cote at Immaculata. For further information please contact Deacon Michael Puscas, Ed.D., Director of Deacons at director@norwichdeacons.org Wednesday, January 21 Day of Recollection “Sloshing Through Ordinary Time” with Fr. Pat Bergquist. For more information or to register, please call St. Edmund’s Retreat at 860-536-0565 or visit our website at www.endersisland.com. Thursday, January 22 March For Life Buses January 22, 2015 marks the 42nd anniversary of the Supreme Court’s infamous abortion-on-demand ruling. On Thursday, January 22, 2015, people from across the nation will assemble in Washington, D.C. to visibly express their opposition to abortion. On Wednesday, January 21, 2015 at 9:00pm, buses sponsored by the Southeast Chapter of Connecticut Right to Life will leave from the Norwich Municipal Parking Lot (Exit 80, I-395) and travel to D.C. to attend the March For Life on January 22. Bus fare is $65.00 per person. (Reduced rate available for students) Please reply by January 7. For further information or to reserve a seat or to sponsor a seat, please call Margaret Becotte at 860822-1362.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
At 7:30pm in the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich The public is invited and admission is free. The traditional festival originated in England at the end of the 19th century and consists of music and readings that trace the mystery of salvation from the creation of the world through the birth of Jesus Christ. Over the past thirty years the event has grown to include six choirs, brass and handbells. It has become a popular Christmas holiday event for the Cathedral parish as well as the Norwich community. Participating in the festival along with the Norwich Diocesan Choir will be the Cathedral Children’s Choir, the three Cathedral handbell choirs, the Cathedral Youth Singers and readers from the Cathedral parish. The choirs, totaling more than one hundred voices and ringers are all under the direction of Douglas Green, Cathedral Music Director. Accompanying the choirs on the Cathedral organ will be Michael McCarthy along with the Sterling Brass Quartet. Persons attending the festival will have the opportunity to sing many traditional Christmas Carols. Photos by Khoi Ton.
Sunday, December 21
35th Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols
The students of St. Joseph School in Baltic, CT invited Veterans to speak Friday, Nov. 7th at an assembly of the entire school. The celebration of our veterans’ began with a Mass at 9:00 am, followed by a breakfast, supplied and hosted by the Student Council. Afterwards, Veterans shared their experiences of their tours of duties in the Korean, Vietnam, Gulf and Afghanistan Wars. Pictures of our School families’ Veterans were posted on the wall of the gym, along with an American flag made with the handprints of the entire student body. Submitted by Susan O’Neil.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
23rd Annual Red, White and Blue Mass Honors United States Uniformed Services “When our cause it is just, and this be our motto, In God is our trust.”
Norwich - November 16, 2014 -- The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich welBy Donna Antonacci Contributions by Michael Strammiello
comed to the Cathedral of St Patrick representatives from all the Uniformed Services and their Reserves and National Guard. Here in one place on one Sunday in November, men and women in dress uniforms from the Air Force, Army, Navy, Marine
Corps, Coast Guard and Merchant Marine stood together and prayed together. Their prayers were for peace and order in the world. Their thoughts were with those who have sacrificed their lives in the line of duty. It was an occasion to celebrate, remember and give thanks to the bravest among us who defend our freedoms. Freedoms such as gathering together and worshipping together. This was an occasion for all attending to exchange the sign
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of peace with true guardians of peace. An occasion for a grateful congregation to show its pride and gratitude toward those who are dedicated to serving Country above self. As Bishop Cote said of all active and retired servicemen and women, “Their lives proclaim a labor of love – love of God, love of Country and love of family.” As has become tradition, the Mass began with the piercing sound of taps from high in the choir loft followed by the contrasting energetic sound of
reveille, symbolizing a call to a new beginning. The spirit of high energy and of marching forward resounded throughout the ceremonies. It could be heard in the readings, in the inspiring music of the United States Coast Guard Academy Glee Club, in the Mystic Highland Pipe Band, in the joyful voices of the Cathedral Choir and cantor Caroll Mailhot under the direction of Douglas Green, and in the powerful message of the homilist, Father Raymond D. Introvigne. Father Ray,
words of President John F. Kennedy, “Let us go forward, asking God’s blessing, but realizing here on earth, God’s work is truly our own.” Doing God’s work was the vision of the founding fathers who believed that a “widespread faith in God was the true source of America’s greatness.” A message perfectly relevant in 21st century America. As has also become a tradition, the recessional hymn was a stirring rendition of the “Battle Hymn of the Republic.” Friends,
prior to joining the priesthood, enlisted in the U.S. Air Force during the Korean Conflict. Among his commendations was the National Defense Service Medal. His first-hand experience in time of war gives added weight to his message. A message of faith and appreciation. Father gratefully acknowledged that the servicemen and women, giving of themselves out of love for family and Country, are responsible for the peace we enjoy. Recalling historic presidential messages of faith and honor, Father Ray recalled the
family and grateful congregants gathered after Mass in the Cathedral Auditorium to enjoy an opportunity to renew friendships and to share in the solidarity of all men and women who serve their Country, often in harm’s way. Congratulations to the event Co-Chairs, BG CT Edward J. Waite, CTANG (ret) and Mr. David K. Harding, U. S. Merchant Marine. They have already set the date for next year’s Red, White, and Blue Mass. It will be Sunday, November 15, 2015. A good idea to mark your calendars.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
A Life-Changing Journey This year, Father Michael Smith, the pastor of Church of the Holy Family in Hebron and Submitted by Erin K. Butler Communications Chair, Church of the Holy Family, Hebron
St. Columba Church in Columbia, took part in a life-changing journey, a pilgrimage through the Holy Land. “What a blessing and a wonderful opportunity,” said Father Smith. “I wanted to see the beginnings of my faith and in particular my vocation to the priesthood, as well as better appreciate my calling in following the Good Shepherd.” He was invited by Father Skip Negley, a friend and the provincial superior of the Missionaries of Our Lady of LaSalette who was traveling with his parishioners from Mary Queen Church in Friendswood, Texas and was in need of another Chaplain for the journey. The group consisted of 35 people, along with a guide from the Holy Land. The 10-day trip started in Tel Aviv and included traveling through towns such as Nazareth, Bethlehem and Jerusalem.
Father Michael said he was excited about the trip but tried not to set any expectations ahead of time. “I wanted to keep my mind and spirit open to the pilgrimage experience, not knowing who I would meet along the way, but I certainly had a desire to follow in the footsteps of Jesus.” There were two places the group visited, in particular, that really stayed with him. The first included a boat ride on the Sea of Galilee, which brought back emotions from his past and call to the priesthood. “It was powerful beyond words,” he said. “It brought me back to fishing with my father for the last time the day before he died while realizing it was my first year in the seminary, my first call to discipleship.” The group also celebrated Mass at the Rock of Gethsemane, which is named in the New Testament as the place where Jesus went with his disciples to pray the night before he was crucified. “I felt overwhelmed to be at the place of Jesus’ last day on earth, his commitment and willingness to suffer and die for us out of love
for us.” Father Michael said the trip was one that provided him great personal growth, as well as inspiration moving forward. “The pilgrimage allowed me to see with new eyes. You can pray and reflect on scripture but there is nothing like seeing it with your own eyes.” He plans on being those eyes for his parishioners, launching a series of blog posts from December through June detailing his experiences and including photographs taken along the journey. “This trip changed me and I want to share the Good News with others and to allow parishioners to appreciate our beginnings.” The blog posts can be found at www.holyfamilyhebron.org beginning in December. The Church of the Holy Family is located at 185 Church Street in Hebron and can be reached at 860-228-0096. St. Columba Church is located at 328 Rtes 66 in Columbia and can be reached at 860-228-3735. Information on both parishes can be found online at www.holyfamilyhebron.org.
For the Answer go to Page 19.
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the tradition has a very interesting history. Hymns that told the story of Christmas began to appear in Rome in the fourth century. They were, of course, in the language of the day, which was Latin. Through the course of the centuries, as languages and countries developed in what is now Europe, hymns for Christmas also developed. Saint Francis of Assisi (c.1181-1226), who was the first to set up a Nativity scene and even Nativity plays, strongly encouraged the people to sing these Christmas hymns. However, these would have been “popular” hymns, and would never have been sung inside the church building or at a Mass. The tradition of caroling, going from house to house to sing and share the message of Christmas, began in England in the sixteenth century. The oldest known English
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language Christmas hymns which date back to this caroling or “wassailing,” are “Good King Wenceslas” and “The Holly and the Ivy.” Even though Christmas carols were well known and popular for a few cen-
turies, they were not sung inside church buildings until the midnineteenth century when the Church of England initiated the ceremony of “Lessons and Carols.” In its classic form, which was established almost one hundred years ago, “Lessons and Carols” is a series of nine Scripture readings which tell the story of our redemption, beginning with Adam and Eve and concluding with the birth of Jesus, the Messiah. The Scripture readings are then alternated with Christmas carols, sung by the congregation and the choir. Today, many Catholic parishes have adopted the ceremony of “Lessons and Carols,” either in the classic format or in an alternate arrangement of Scripture and song. Originally, “Lessons and Carols” was a vigil service for Christmas
Eve. The people gathered together in the local church, heard the Word of God, sang together and waited for the first light of Christmas Day. Now, in most places, “Lessons and Carols” is an Advent service which still anticipates Christmas, but not so immediately. Today, as we know, the Christmas shopping season begins in early November, complete with decorations and bargain sales, and then Christmas disappears from the stores by December 26th. Surrounded by such noise and rushing, it is difficult to maintain a sense of vigil or calm quiet as Christmas approaches. It is equally difficult to celebrate the entire liturgical season of Christmas which continues for more than two weeks into the new year. Perhaps Christmas carols can help us keep the celebration going. We will sing Carols in our parishes, but we can also carry them home with us. For instance, families could sing Christmas carols as a way of praying together, to bless the day or to bless a meal. If not musically inclined, a family might share and pray the words of their best-loved Christmas carols, since the carols tell the story of Christmas. The creative family will find many ways to watch and wait for the Messiah during Advent, and to celebrate his arrival all through the Christmas season.
O come, all ye faithful, joyful and triumphant O come ye, O come ye to Bethlehem. Come and behold him, born the king of angels; O come, let us adore him, Christ the Lord!
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Four County Catholic December 2014
We Continue to Be Her Messenger The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe In 1521, the Europeans conquered the Aztec Empire and just 10 years later Our Blessed Mother By Angela Angulo Four County Catholic Contributor
appeared to Juan Diego in Guadalupe, what is now Mexico City. Now, every December, millions celebrate the miracles preformed several hundred years ago. These celebrations begin the night before the feast date with a procession held in Willimantic with prayers and songs called ‘Las Mananitas’. The evening of December 12th, the Cathedral of Saint Patrick transports us all to Mexico. The celebration begins with a rosary offered up to Our Lady and continues on with a bilingual Mass celebrated by the
Most Reverend Michael R. Cote D.D., Bishop of Norwich. Our Blessed Mother made it clear that we are all united, and in that spirit, the Mass brought together Spanish speakers and others alike. The cathedral was fully decorated with red and white roses, streamers representing the Mexican flag and a large image of Our Lady of
Guadalupe, while several of our youth present wore custom Mexican attire. Also, this year marked the 10th year of enjoying the ministry work of the band Mariachi International. “Que viva la Virgin de Guadalupe!” Father Robert Washabaugh, Pastor of Saint Mary’s Star of the Sea Church in New London, fired up the parishioners with shouts of praise to Our Lady in the beginning of his homily. He explained that the Virgin Mary did, in fact, appear to Juan Diego 10 years after the conquest of the Aztec Empire. Father Washabaugh brought to our attention how tired and distraught the native people must have been as he recalled, “She came to the Americas to raise up
a new world from the ashes of an old world violently torn down.” Our Lady decided to show Herself as a beautiful Mexican expectant Mother and asked Juan to carry Her message of building a church for Her and Her unborn child. The people needed something uplifting, and Mary was able to provide the guidance and
hope for a new beginning as Christian converts. At first, the Spanish Bishop of that time ignored Juan Diego’s story of his personal encounter with Mary and he asked that Mary send a sign down to him. The Lady responded by uniting both Europeans and natives as one. Father Washabaugh said that
it was the start of a new society. “How do you explain the conversion, willing and even joyful conversion of millions of Mexicans and a remarkable change of heart of those who conquered them?” The Bishop understood that it was God’s will. Following the H o l y Mass, all of the parishioners were invited downstairs for a ‘Fiesta’ to indulge in authentic Mexican food accompanied by the festive sound of the Mariachi International Band. As the fellowship continued, the
youth, dressed in their traditional attire, performed some beautiful Mexican dances. Our Blessed Mother reminds us that we are to honor life, as She is also the patroness of unborn children. She has shown us that She truly is O u r Mother by coming to our aid when we need it most. She valued Juan Diego as a p e r s o n though he was just a peasant, and she trusted him to carry on her message. We have built a church in her name and we continue to be Her messengers.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Thoughtful Year-End Donations Every year, as the year-end begins to approach, we are all accustomed to finding a number of By Mary Ellen Mahoney Development Manager & Major Gifts
appeal letters from non-profits seeking our last minute, year-end donations. According to the National Philanthropic Trust, total charitable giving for 2013 reached $335.17 billion in America, which represents an increase of 4.4% from 2012 levels. Although this has been the fourth year in a row that charitable giving has increased, it is yet to reach the levels enjoyed in 2007. The majority of giving ($240.6 billion) was made by individuals and of that amount; $27.73 billion was bequeathed by will. With these charitable dollars, donors are able to aid many, many community-based organizations that work to help people in need make their daily lives more livable. Whether it is organizations like St. Vincent De Paul Place, Catholic Charities, or any of the other worthy Diocesan ministries, donors who give to the Diocese of Norwich are assured that their monies are efficiently and effectively used to assist many of our most chal-
lenged neighbors reach their best potential. For donors who do not want to limit their support to one ministry, a donation to the Annual Catholic Appeal will support all the Diocesan ministries because money raised through the ACA is distributed to every ministry. This is the time of year to prepare for the barrage of appeal requests that will be coming your way and take a little time to organize your thoughts. Getting your priorities clarified now will help you to sift through the many requests you receive and help you to make the donations that best reflect your intentions. It is a good idea to take paper to pen and actually walk through the process outlined below. 1. Think about all the reasons that you and your family give to organizations. Sometimes, you do so because you have been raised in a family with a tradition of yearend, or holiday giving. Others may feel compelled to give because of a particular cause you are passionate about, such as Catholic school education or feeding the
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homeless. Some years, you may be aware of a particularly difficult problem that requires your monetary support in order to be rectified. Maybe one of your favorite
to think about the way in which you would like to make your donation. This is where you can be very creative! There are numerous ways to give your assets to an organization. Some are as easy as just writing a check and dropping it in the mail. Other
organizations has a new and urgent need that can only be met by an immediate influx of money. Business owners may decide to make donations to organizations because of the benefit they get on their bottom line and the positive publicity that they will receive in the community. Once you have clarified the reasons that you want to give, you will be able to sort through many of the donation requests sitting on your desk. 2. Begin to construct a list of all the organizations that you feel passionate enough about to donate your hard earned money to and then do your homework. If you are not familiar enough with an organization, research, research, research! Examine the organization’s website; most everything you need to get a better understanding of the operation of your potential charity is readily available online for your review. The more you know about a charity, the more comfortable you will feel when you decide to support it. 3. Once you know which of the many organizations you would like to support, your next task is
times, you may want to go online and make an online donation by transferring money directly from your bank account to the organization or making a charge on your credit card. Sometimes, though, you may want to make a more substantial commitment to an organization. You may want to remember a charity in your will. After you have bequeathed through your will specific amounts of money or personal possessions to your family or friends and all the costs of your funeral and estate administration are paid, you may decide to leave a portion of whatever amount remains to a charity or charities. The amount of money that remains after all of the specific bequests and costs of your funeral and estate administration are taken care of is referred to as your residuary estate. This is a great place to recognize a charity. You will be assured that everyone and everything is taken care of, and if there is anything left, you may decide to leave all or a portion of this money to your charity. Other easy ways to make a gift
to your favorite charity would be to name them as a beneficiary of your life insurance. Very often, once your children are grown, you no longer really need the benefit of the life insurance because at that point your children are able to provide for themselves. You may also decide to donate securities that have appreciated and thereby save the long term capital gains taxes that you would have had to pay if you had sold them and kept the money for yourself. People also feel comfortable gifting some of their retirement assets or even arranging for a planned gift such as a charitable remainder trust or a charitable gift annuity. 4. Once your thoughts are organized, you may want to discuss your plans with your family. Perhaps, together, you will want to make a family donation. A meeting with your accountant may be warranted if you are considering a gift with tax implications. Since there are so many different methods of gifting, it is truly best to confer with your financial advisor if you have any questions concerning which method is the most tax efficient means of giving in light of your individual financial and tax position. We hope that this exercise will help you to organize your thoughts and to better deal with the many donation requests that we all receive at this time of the year. If you are interested in discussing any of these options further with someone at the Diocese, please feel free to contact Mary Ellen Mahoney, Development Manager- Major Gifts, at memahoney@norwichdiocese.net or 860-886-1928 ext 14.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
The Miracles of Christmas
As Christmas is just around the corner, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich is busy at its varBy Jim Maffuid Executive Director, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich
ious offices planning to assist those in need to make their holiday brighter. As in past years, the collaborative effort between Catholic Charities, local parishioners and other big-hearted people, helps make Christmas time a magical time of year. Rosalinda Bazinet who took over the reigns as supervisor of the Emergency Financial Assistance program is in the process of finding new ways of serving our clients. In July she helped modify the program so we could have consistent coverage four days per week in our New London and Norwich offices. Recently, while talking about her programs, Rosalinda said, “We are excited that we have wonderful new staff providing four days of coverage in New London and Norwich. The demand is high and Christina Connors is doing a great job in Norwich as is intern Stacey Valliere. We wish we had the resources for an additional day of coverage.” She went on to say, “In New London, Emizelia Ayala, is having a mother and her 3 children come into the office to assist the staff in sorting toys and clothes and preparing the gift bags for each child. The mother shared that it is a learning experience for her children knowing there are many children their age that are not as fortunate as they are”. Here are some of our plans for this year as well as some recollections of last year’s Christmas “miracles.” Willimantic Office Site Supervisor, Miriam Rodriquez is looking forward to the December 13 Christmas party she and caseworker Pamela Salazar have been working hard preparing for. Parents will receive unwrapped toys for their children to put under their Christmas trees. Miriam and Paula as well as volunteers at the Willimantic of-
fice are also accepting donations from area parishes to benefit Toys for Tots. Last Christmas, the Willimantic Advisory Board for Catholic Charities sponsored a Christmas party at St. Mary-St. Joseph School. At the gathering, children received toys made available through the generous donations of local parishioners and the board members. In total, 155 children received the donated toys from Santa while enjoying holiday songs and, of course, delicious Christmas cookies. When Catholic Charities is able to organize these events, the impact is immediate and gratifying. One parent who benefitted from the event stated that she was “thankful to be able come to Catholic Charities to supplement the small amount of gifts I can afford for my children . . . I hadn’t wanted my children to wake up to nothing under the tree.” Miriam Rodriquez continues to express, “with the continued generosity of the community, this year’s party will be just as successful”. New London Office Through the generous donations of parishioners and others, gifts are provided for underprivileged children, who are served by our agency. These benefactors “adopt” our clients and their families and provide toys and clothing, including winter hats and gloves. Office staff will also register the children we serve in the Toys for Tots program. During each of the past three “family adoption” drives, many donors like Jill and Mark Palmiero have answered the call to help our kids in need by donating gifts. The Palmiero’s generously “adopted” 15 area children. Their generosity is driven by the desire to make Christmas “a little more cheerful.” Last year, through the special efforts of staff and donors, 255 chil-
dren received Christmas gifts. With the continued generosity of others, the New London office of Catholic Charities will be successful again this year in making
some Christmas dreams come true for our area children. Norwich Office Staff, and volunteers will get together to assemble and hand out toys, clothes, hats and gloves that are being donated to the chil-
dren we serve. Project LEARN, through the efforts of their charity drive, will provide us with toys and clothes on December 19, just in time for Christmas. In addition, Rosa l i n d a Bazinet is getting the word out letting people know, “we are also counting on staff and parishioners to donate to help our children in the community”. Last Christmas, local Norwich teens received gift cards donated by the Norwich Council of Catholic Woman and St Thomas More School. While so much of the focus is on young children during
Christmas, Judy Pappagallo, former president and current member of the council enjoys providing for the older kids who she says are “often forgotten at this time of year.” Through the work of Catholic Charites and groups like the Norwich Council of Catholic Women, fewer children are “forgotten” and their Christmas is made more memorable. With the great team of Rosalinda, Miriam, Paula, Christina and Emizelia, as well as the numerous hard working volunteers who give of themselves, hundreds of children throughout the diocese will have a Merry Christmas. If you would like to assist them in their efforts during this special time of year, please contact Rosalinda Bazinet at 860-889-8346.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Contractor Edward Coney, left and foreman Luis Tenezaca of Residential Home Improvement, LLC remove the 5-foot-tall copper cross from the spire of St. Patrick Roman Catholic Church in downtown Mystic as part of the church’s ongoing restoration project. Coney will be taking the cross to be restored and refinished and is scheduled to be put back in place by Christmas. Photo by Tim Cook/The Day
New Movie Wishin’ & Hopin’ Delivers The recently released film, Wishin’ & Hopin, with its strong From the FCC News Desk
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local ties including director Wally Lamb from Norwich and many scenes having been shot at Norwich Free Academy and other local sites, also has a close tie to the Diocese of Norwich. A check for $5,000 from the proceeds of the latest film screening was presented to St. Vincent de Paul Place at a reception last Thursday evening at UConn’s Student Union Theater in Storrs. As noted by Kristina Dorsey, reporting for The Day, the producer, Andrew Gernhard, a 1995 graduate of Norwich Free Acad-
emy where he was a student of Lamb’s, noted that “The film looks great. It sounds great. The performances are great. I think it’s something people are going to want to watch every year, almost
like A Christmas Story.� He describes it as a family movie, adding, “I think a lot of people are going to connect with it. It’s a solid, tight little slice of life that you don’t really see any more in movies.� Part of the buzz over this film is its outstanding cast that includes Molly Ringwald, Chevy Chase as a narrator, and Meatloaf as Monsignor Muldoon. At the UConn screening and reception, Julie Way, the Case Manager at St. Vincent de Paul Place gratefully accepted the donation which comes at their peak time of year for helping feed and comfort so many in the greater Norwich community.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
An Interview with Jim Maffuid, Executive Director, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich When did you first become interested in helping others as a vocation? I have always been drawn to helping others from a young agewhether it was shoveling a neighbor’s driveway or helping a friend with homework. In high school we had to do community service in our junior and senior years as part of a graduation requirement. I volunteered at a local convalescent home to provide companionship to the residents. At first I may have thought I was just meeting a requirement, but as I connected with the residents and staff, I saw how much these individuals had to offer one another. I still remember the time a 92 year old man named Bill was crying when I walked in. As a senior in High school I wasn’t really sure what to do, but listen. He was upset that he couldn’t help his daughter who had fallen and broke her hip. I asked how old she was and he said 70. He was her father and he instinctively wanted to help her. As a father of four and as a son, I carry that lesson today realizing it doesn’t matter how old my children are or I am, a parent is always a parent. Just like our heavenly Father is always our Father regardless of our age or where we are in life, He watches over us. What is it about Catholic Charities that makes it a good fit for you? When the opportunity came to be able to work at Catholic Charities, I was excited to work/serve others from within my faith. Having attended both a Jesuit high school and University, there was a strong sense of social responsibility and service to others. Certainly my entire career has been working within social human services organizations, but Catholic Charities is more than just a social service
agency, it is a ministry of the church. We are here to do Christ’s work, to be the face of Christ to those we serve. As our mission states, we are here, “to respond to Christ’s call to care for those in need by providing compassionate social services..... with special attention to people who are poor or disadvantaged.” How many families benefit from Catholic Charities here in the Diocese of Norwich – and in how many ways? This past year we served more than 6500 individuals throughout our diocese. Within our ministry, individuals and families received an array of services ranging from clinical services such as behavioral health and substance abuse services to basic human needs assistance such as rent, electric and energy assistance. Our housing program assists individuals with first time homebuyer’s education as well as foreclosure prevention. We also provide adoption and immigration services. Our office of family life assists couples with premarital counseling and marriage preparation. Is there a first-hand story in your experience that stands out as a representative example of how Catholic Charities can make a difference in someone’s life during difficult times? There are so many stories of how our staff impact people’s lives, whether it is a father who was laid off and is worried about losing his home and we help prevent a foreclosure or a mother and her children who are displaced due to domestic violence and we help her find shelter and food. What really stands out is when I receive a letter from them indicating that it wasn’t so much that we gave them money
for rent or oil, but it was that we saw them as a person- we listened to them, prayed with them and they felt we treated them with dignity and respect. Is it true that Catholic Charities on a national scale is the second largest provider of family assistance programs – second only to the Government? CCUSA’s service numbers are staggering. CCUSA is comprised of approximately 2,700 local Catholic charity affiliate sites. Combined, these offices provide more than 17 million services to 9 million unduplicated clients. We, Catholic Charities Norwich, are proud to be an affiliate member agency of this larger network that stretches across the country and has such a profound impact on people’s lives. How is Catholic Charities supported financially? Are your needs and the services you provide increasing? How can more people and organizations help? We receive funding from the Diocese of Norwich, the United Way of Southeastern Connecticut and the United Way of Central and Northeastern Connecticut. We have also received consistent and generous support from the Diocesan council of Catholic Women and other local foundations that we apply to for funding. Our New London advisory board runs a very successful golf tournament and the development office will be running our second annual Gala. Without the financial support of all of these local grants, foundations and events, we would not be able to serve the most vulnerable in our community. Besides grants, we also generate fees through our Behavioral Health Services and receive funding from HUD and NFMC for our housing, foreclosure prevention and first time home buyers program. With the ongoing financial challenges throughout our region, and continued government cuts to services, we see more and more people in need. Our challenge is twofold: one we need the funding to provide assistance such as food, rent and electricity and, two, we
need funding that helps cover the cost of our staff and operations. We have been blessed with many volunteers who help with our emergency financial services and basic needs programs. A few key ways people and organizations can help is through volunteering in one of our programs- donating their time,
talent and treasure. We recently had a beautiful song written about adoption and performed by a youth group. That song is getting great attention on the radio and soon on CCUSA’s website. We also are in need of computers as we build our infrastructure to allow us to better operate and serve our clients.
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CHRISTMAS ON THE HILL: Beginning December 7, 2014, through January 4, 2015, Fr. Ron’s Annual Christmas Light and Crystal Extravaganza will be available for visits in the Retreat House lobby and dining room. Open House Hours are each Sunday from Noon—5 PM. Special arrangements can be made for viewing during the week, but we ask that you call beforehand.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Buon Natale
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DEC 1 to FEB 1
A lovely Statue of Our Lady was recently installed at St. Mary Cemetery in Norwich. The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich was onsite to bless the statue and congratulate Joe Muscarella, Director of Diocesan Properties and Cemeteries, for overseeing the donation and placement of the statue. Photo By Monsignor Robert L. Brown.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Sister Doris Bérubé, DHS January 3, 1920 ~ November 7, 2014 Sr. Doris Bérubé, DHS, 94 , a member of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit, died on Friday, November 7, 2014 at the Holy Spirit Health Care Center where she has been in residence since September 2012. Born on January 3, 1920 in Hartford, CT, the daughter of the late Thomas and Philomène (Bélanger) Bérubé, Sr. Doris entered religious life in 1942 and made her religious profession at the Holy Spirit Provincial House on July 1, 1943. She was then known as Sr. Thérèse Thomas. Primarily a teacher and educator for most of her religious life, Sr. Doris’ assignments included St. Anne School, Waterbury, CT; St. Mary’s School, Putnam, CT; and Holy Family School, Fairfield, CT. From 1965-72 Sr. Doris prepared prospective teachers and was named Director of the International Institute at Annhurst College, South Woodstock, CT. From 1972-74 she served as Principal at St. Mary’s School, Jewett City, CT. Upon her return to Annhurst College, she was both an ESL teacher and Administrator of the Institute as well as assistant professor in the Education and English Departments until the closure of Annhurst in 1980. Following this she was CCD Coordinator of St. Mary’s Parish, Putnam, CT and later served as Secretary at Hawkins House in Danielson, CT. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Daughters of the Holy Spirit Retirement Fund, 72 Church St., Putnam, CT, 06260.
Sister Judith Kenhart, DHS August 21, 1937 ~ November 20, 2014 Sr. Judith Kenhart, DHS, 77, a member of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit, died on Thursday, November 20 at the Holy Spirit Provincial House, Putnam, CT, where she had been in residence since 2005. Born on August 21, 1937, the daughter of the late Stephen and Joan (Leslie) Kenhart, Sr. Judith entered religious life in 1955 and made her religious profession on April 24, 1957 at the Provincial House in Putnam, CT. She was then known as Sr. Stephen of the Passion. A graduate of the Diocesan Sisters’ College, South Woodstock, CT, with a B.A., she later earned an M.A. from Boston College, Boston, MA and a second M.A. from Weston School of Theology, Cambridge, MA. Sr. Judith taught at Putnam Catholic Academy, Putnam, CT, her Alma Mater and Cathedral High School, Bridgeport, CT. After a year as CCD Co-ordinator at St. Cecilia’s parish in Leominster, MA she was appointed special assistant to President Buchanan at Annhurst
College. In 1980, she served as director of Family Refuge Center Shelter in Sweet Springs, WV. In 1985 she became program developer at Catholic Charities in Cambridge, MA. In 1995 until 2005 she served as volunteer chaplain at Mass General Hospital in Boston. She retired to the Provincial House in Putnam. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to Daughters of the Holy Spirit Retirement Fund, 72 Church St., Putnam, CT 06260. For memorial guestbook visit www.GilmanAndValade.com.
Sister Marie Michaud, DHS September 9, 1916 ~ December 4, 2014 Sr. Marie Michaud, DHS, 98 , a member of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit, died on Thursday, December 04, 2014 at Holy Spirit Health Care Center where she was in residence since 2010. Born Marie Desneiges Michaud on September 9, 1916, the daughter of the late Georges and Edith (Pelletier) Michaud, Sr. Marie entered religious life in 1930 and made her religious profession on August 8, 1935 at the Motherhouse in St. Brieuc, France. She was then known as Sr. Georges du Sacré Coeur. Following her profession she became Mistress of Boarders at St. Jeanne d’Arc in Lannion, France and at La Glanerie in Belgium. Upon her return to the United States, Sr. Marie received a B.A. from St. Joseph College in West Hartford, CT and an M.A. from Fordham University, New York, NY. Her teaching assignments included Notre Dame School, Pittsfield, MA, St. Joseph School, Burlington, VT, St. Anne School, Hartford. and St. Mary’s School, Putnam. From 1959-62, She was named American delegate to the General Council at the Motherhouse in St. Brieuc, France. When she returned from France she was assigned to teach at St. Mary’s School in Jewett City. In 1964 she was appointed Diocesan Supervisor of schools for the Diocese of Norwich and in 1969 she was appointed Provincial Supervisor of Schools for the American Province of the Daughters of the Holy Spirit. In 1971 she served as instructor at Annhurst College, South Woodstock. She also served as Principal of St. Cecilia School, Leominster, MA and later as Secretary at St. Anne School, Hartford. In 1987 she worked for the City of Waterbury. and later as clerk for the Palladino Center for Seniors in Waterbury. She also did some part-time tutoring for the City of Waterbury while in semiretirement. She is survived by her sisters in community, the Daughters of the Holy Spirit as well as several nieces and nephews, grandnieces and grandnephews. A Mass of Christian burial was held on Saturday, December 6, followed by burial at St. Mary’s Cemetery, Putnam. In lieu of flowers, donations may be made to the Daughters of the Holy Spirit Retirement Fund, 72 Church St., Putnam., 06260. For memorial guestbook visit www.GilmanAndValade.com.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Bible-Based Movie Trend Continues as Prodigal Son Movie ‘Wayward’ Heads to Theaters Biblical movies are quite popular right now, and the trend continues with the release of “Wayward: The By Sami K. Martin Christian Post Reporter
Defending Religious Liberty Religious freedom is a cornerstone of our democracy. The federal health care mandate fundamentally alters the fragile balance between government and religious groups created by the framers of our Constitution. The same First Amendment that protects religious freedom protects freedom of the press. We wouldn’t stand for the government telling news programs whom to interview or what articles to write. If you haven’t done so already, please voice your opposition to the mandate by calling President Obama at the White House at 202-456-1111 or U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell at 202-205-5445. Let them know that the mandate is in violation of our First Amendment right to religious freedom.
Prodigal Son”. As may be expected, “Wayward” offers a modern telling of the story of the prodigal son, found in the gospel of Luke. The story centers on a young son who decides he wants to leave his family, takes his inheritance, and goes out into the world. He loses all that he has and returns home, hoping to be taken in as a servant. However, upon returning home, his father runs out to greet him and throws a celebratory party because the son that was lost has now been found. “Wayward” focuses on the story of Tyler McMillan, played by Landon Henneman, who is the prodigal son of the film. McMillan is described as a “pampered rich kid” who already has everything, gets
more, then loses it all. It’s a story that all too many parents know but hope never to experience first-hand. “I made ‘Wayward: The Prodigal Son” because the Biblical story has always touched a deep place in my soul,” filmmaker Rob Diamond said in the press release. “I’ve been on the receiving end of forgiveness many times for the mistakes I’ve made in my life. It’s the perfect story of love, redemption and forgiveness.” Diamond wanted to take a unique angle with the film and hinted that while the traditional
story will be told, there will be “a few surprises,” most likely based on Scripture. Not only did he work behind the scenes to write, produce, and direct the story, Diamond also worked in front of the camera, playing McMillan’s father, Rob. The Christian filmmaker said that he made the movie for “my Maker first and foremost, but I also made it for anyone who loves stories of redemption and for those seeking some hope and forgiveness in their lives or the lives of the people they cherish most who might be hurting inside.”
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Washington - As the Catholic remembrance of the recent past” Vocations. Church prepares to celebrate the while embracing “the future with Catholics are invited to join acYear of Consecrated Life, the U.S. hope.” tivities that will be promoted in Conference of Catholic Bishops’ “The ‘Days with Religious’ ac- collaboration with the Council of (USCCB) Committee on Clergy, tivities will represent great oppor- Major Superiors of Women ReliConsecrated Life and gious, (CMSWR), Vocations is promotthe Leadership Coning “Days with Reliference of Women gious” initiatives and Religious (LCWR) resources to help famand the Conference ilies learn about the of Major Superiors of consecrated life of reMen (CMSM). ligious men and The events planned women. Activities are as follows: will focus on sharing • February 8, 2015: experiences of prayer, Religious Open service and commuHouse. Events will be nity life with those coordinated to also living a consecrated celebrate the World life. Meeting of Families “Our brothers and to take place in sisters in Christ living Philadelphia and will consecrated lives include tours, open make great contribuhouses, receptions, tions to our society family activities, and through a vast numpresentations on the O God, throughout the ages you have called ber of ministries,” history of religious women and men to pursue lives of perfect said Archbishop communities at conJoseph E. Kurtz of vents, abbeys, monascharity through the evangelical counsels of Louisville, Kentucky, teries and religious poverty, chastity, and obedience. During this president of USCCB. houses. Year of Consecrated Life, we give you thanks for “They teach in our • Summer 2015: schools, take care of Day of Mission and these courageous witnesses of Faith and models the poor and the sick Service with Reliof inspiration. Their pursuit of holy lives teaches us gious. Events will inand bring compassion and the love of Christ joining to make a more perfect offering of ourselves to you. clude to those shunned by religious in their Continue to enrich your Church by calling forth society; others lead apostolates or special lives of prayer in conservice projects, such sons and daughters who, having found the pearl templation for the as assisting the elderly, of great price, treasure the Kingdom of Heaven world.” ministering to the Pope Francis propoor and homeless, above all things. Through our Lord Jesus Christ, claimed 2015 a Year and caring for the less your Son, who lives and reigns with you in the of Consecrated Life, fortunate. starting on the First • September 13, unity of the Holy Spirit, one God, Sunday of Advent, 2015: Day of Prayer for ever and ever. Amen. the weekend of Nowith Religious. vember 29, 2014, and Events will include ending on February 2, 2016, the tunities for families and adults to vespers, rosary or holy hours in World Day of Consecrated life. look at the many ways men and convents, monasteries, religious The year also marks the 50th an- women serve Christ and the houses, parishes and churches. niversary of Perfectae Caritatis, a Church while answering the call Prayers intentions, prayer cards, a decree on religious life, and to live in consecrated life,” said video on consecrated life and Lumen Gentium, the Second Vat- Bishop Michael F. Burbidge of other resources are available at: ican Council’s constitution on the Raleigh, North Carolina, chair- www.usccb.org/beliefs-and-teachChurch. Its purpose, as stated by man of the USCCB Committee ings/vocations/consecratedthe Vatican, is to “make a grateful on Clergy, Consecrated Life and life/year-of-consecratedlife/
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Our Lives Are Worth Living, Even With Brain Cancer Philip Johnson is a Catholic Seminarian from the Diocese of Raleigh Editor’s Note: The following article by Philip Johnson, a seminarian from the Diocese of Raleigh, was written just prior to Brittany Maynard taking her own life with the legal assistance of a physician in Portland, Oregon. Philip Johnson also has been diagnosed with incurable brain cancer. His response is that our lives are not our own to take. Trust every second of God’s plan.
I was diagnosed with incurable brain cancer, but suicide is a temptation that avoids the important By Phillip Johnson Time Magazine
reality of life. Last week I came across the heartbreaking story ofBrittany Maynard, a 29-year-old woman who was diagnosed with terminal brain cancer one year after her wedding. When doctors suggested that she might only have six months to live, she and her family moved from California to Oregon in order to obtain the prescriptions
necessary for doctor-assisted euthanasia. She is devoting her last days to fundraising and lobbying for an organization dedicated to expanding the legality of assisted suicide to other States. Brittany’s story really hit home, as I was diagnosed with a very similar incurable brain cancer in 2008 at the age of 24. After years of terrible headaches and misdiagnosis, my Grade III brain cancer (Anaplastic Astrocytoma) proved to be inoperable due to its location. Most studies state that the median survival time for this type of cancer is 18 months, even with
aggressive radiation and chemotherapy. I was beginning an exciting career as a naval officer with my entire life ahead of me. I had so many hopes and dreams, and in an instant they all seemed to be crushed. As Brittany said in her online video, “being told you have that kind of timeline still feels like you’re going to die tomorrow.” I was diagnosed during my second Navy deployment to the Northern Arabian Gulf. After many seizures, the ship’s doctor sent me to the naval hospital on the Persian Gulf island nation of Bahrain, where my brain tumor
was discovered. I remember the moment I saw the computer images of the brain scans – I went to the Catholic chapel on base and fell to the floor in tears. I asked God, “why me?” The next day, I flew home to the United States to begin urgent treatment. A few months after radiation and chemotherapy, I was discharged from the Navy and began forma-
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Four County Catholic December 2014
tion for the Roman Catholic priesthood, a vocation to which I have felt called since I was 19 years old. Despite all of the hardships and delays in my training and formation over the past six years, I hope to be ordained to the transitional diaconate this Spring and to the priesthood one year later. I have lived through six years of constant turmoil, seizures and headaches. I often changed hospitals and doctors every few months, seeking some morsel of hope for survival. Like Brittany, I do not want to die, nor do I want to suffer the likely outcome of this disease. I do not think anyone wants to die in this way. Brittany states relief that she does not have to die the way that it has been explained that she would – she can die “on her own terms.” I have also consulted with my doctors to learn how my illness is likely to proceed. I will gradually lose control of my bodily functions at a young age, from paralysis to incontinence, and it is very likely that my mental faculties will also disappear and lead to confusion and hallucinations before my death. This terrifies me, but it does not make me any less of a person. My life means something to me, to God, and to my family and friends, and barring a miraculous recovery, it will continue to mean something long after I am paralyzed in a hospice bed. My family and friends love me for who I am, not just for the personality traits that will slowly slip away if this tumor progresses and takes my life. Obviously, I have lived much longer than originally expected, and I attribute this to the support and prayers of others who have helped me to keep a positive outlook. I will never claim that I have dealt with my illness heroically or with great courage, no matter what others might observe or believe from my reserved disposition. I am shy and introverted, so I have not let many people become aware of the depth of my suffering. There have been times over the past six years that I wanted the cancer to grow and take my life swiftly so that it would all be over. Other times, I have sought forms of escape through sin and denial just to take my mind off of the suffering and sadness, even if only for a few moments. However, deep in my heart I know that this approach is
futile. My illness has become a part of me, and while it does not define me as a person, it has shaped who I am and who I will become. In Brittany’s video, her mother mentions that her immediate hope was for a miracle. My response to my diagnosis was the same – I hoped for a miraculous recovery so that I would not have to deal with the suffering and pain that was likely to come. However, I now realize that a “miracle” does not necessarily mean an instant cure. If it did, would we not die from something else later in our lives? Is there any reason that we deserve 15, 20, or 30 or more years of life? Every day of life is a gift, and gifts can be taken away in an instant. Anyone who suffers from a terminal illness or has lost someone close to them knows this very well. I have outlived my dismal prognosis, which I believe to be a miracle, but more importantly, I have experienced countless miracles in places where I never expected to find them. Throughout my preparation for the priesthood I have been able to empathize with the sick and suffering in hospitals and nursing homes. I have traveled to Lourdes, France, the site of a Marian apparition and a place of physical and spiritual healing that is visited by millions of pilgrims each year. I have had the great opportunity to serve the infirm there who trust in God with their whole hearts to make sense of their suffering. Through my interaction with these people, I received much more than I gave. I learned that the suffering and heartache that is part of the human condition does not have to be wasted and cut short out of fear or seeking control in a seemingly uncontrollable situation. Perhaps this is the most important miracle that God intends for me to experience. Suffering is not worthless, and our lives are not our own to take. As humans we are relational – we relate to one another and the actions of one person affects others. Sadly, the concept of “redemptive suffering” – that human suffering united to the suffering of Jesus on the Cross for our salvation can benefit others – has often been ignored or lost in modern times. It is perfectly understandable that medication should be made available to give comfort and limit suffering as much as possible during
the dying process, especially during a terminal illness, but it is impossible to avoid suffering altogether. We do not seek pain for its own sake, but our suffering can have great meaning if we try to join it to the Passion of Christ and offer it for the conversion or intentions of others. While often terrifying, the suffering and pain that we will all experience in our lives can be turned into something positive. This has been a very difficult task for me, but it is possible to achieve. There is a card on Brittany’s website asking for signatures “to support her bravery in this very tough time.” I agree that her time is tough, but her decision is anything but brave. I do feel for her and understand her difficult situation, but no diagnosis warrants suicide. A diagnosis of terminal cancer uproots one’s whole life, and the decision to pursue physician-assisted suicide seeks to grasp at an ounce of control in the midst of turmoil. It is an understandable temptation to take this course of action, but that is all that it is – a temptation to avoid an important reality of life. By dying on one’s “own terms,” death seems more comfortable in our culture that is sanitized and tends to avoid any mention of the suffering and death that will eventually come to us all. Brittany comments, “I hope to pass in peace. The reason to consider life and what’s of value is to make sure you’re not missing out, seize the day, what’s important to you, what do you care about – what matters – pursue that, forget the rest.” Sadly, Brittany will be missing out on the most intimate moments of her life – her loved
ones comforting her through her suffering, her last and most personal moments with her family, and the great mystery of death – in exchange for a quicker and more “painless” option that focuses more on herself than anyone else. In our culture, which seeks to avoid pain at any cost, it is not difficult to understand why this response is so common among those who suffer. I have experienced so much sadness due to my illness, but there have also been times of great joy. The support I have received from others encourages me to keep pushing on. I want to be a priest, I want to see my three young nephews grow up, and these goals give me the hope to wake up each day and live my life with trust. I will continue to pray for Brittany as she deals with her illness, as I know exactly what she is going through. I still get sad. I still cry. I still beg God to show me His will through all of this suffering and to
allow me to be His priest if it be His will, but I know that I am not alone in my suffering. I have my family, my friends, and the support of the entire universal Church. I have walked in Brittany’s shoes, but I have never had to walk alone. Such is the beauty of the Church, our families, and the prayerful support that we give to one another. May Brittany come to understand the love that we all have for her before she takes her own life, and that if she chooses instead to fight this disease, her life and witness would be an incredible example and inspiration to countless others in her situation. She would certainly be an inspiration to me as I continue my own fight against cancer. Philip Johnson is a Catholic seminarian from the Diocese of Raleigh who has terminal brain cancer. This article was originally published on DioceseOfRaleigh.org.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Pope Francis is Naming New Cardinals: Will Any Be American? The Vatican announced Thursday (Dec. 11) that Pope Francis will name a new batch of cardinals By David Gibson Religion News Service
in February, adding to the select group of churchmen who will someday gather to elect his successor. Rome won’t reveal the names until next month, but could an American be among them? There are a number of factors that will govern the choices, and thus the predictions: First, there are 208 cardinals in the College of Cardinals, but at the age of 80 a cardinal is no longer allowed to vote in a conclave. That leaves 112 cardinals under the age of 80, as of now, though, two more will age out in February and another two in March and April. The customary ceiling on the number of electors today is 120 (it has changed many times over the centuries). That means that Pope Francis could give a so-called red
hat to 10 or 12 bishops. The pope could also raise the ceiling, or ignore it, as Saint John Paul II often did during his long reign. Other factors to keep in mind: The U.S. currently has 18 living cardinals, 11 of whom are eligible to vote. That’s about 10 percent of the total, which isn’t bad considering American Catholics represent about 6 percent of the global population of 1.2 billion Catholics. In appointing his first group of cardinals last February, Francis surprised Vatican-watchers by overlooking many traditional dioceses in Europe and instead choosing bishops — 16 of them under 80 — from places such as Haiti and Burkina Faso, poor countries that are on the margins of ecclesiastical influence. That signaled that Pope Francis, an Argentine who is the first nonEuropean pope in modern times, wants to redistribute power in the church. He has work to do on that score: As John Allen noted at Crux,
two-thirds of the members of the College of Cardinals (69) still come from the Northern Hemisphere, while two-thirds of all Catholics live in the Global South — Asia, Africa and Latin America. Another custom working against the expectation that Pope Francis will name an American is that by tradition, the Vatican does not like to have more than two voting-age cardinals from the same diocese. That said, Francis did not pick any Americans when he made his first batch of cardinals, and several U.S. cardinals are very close to 80. So if he were to choose an American — or two — who might it be? Here are four options, listed in order of likelihood: 1. Archbishop Jose Gomez of Los Angeles Los Angeles is far and away the largest diocese in the U.S. church, with more than 4 million baptized members. Gomez, who turns 63 this month, is Mexican-born and, like his flock, represents the Latino future of the church. Although he
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hews to doctrinal orthodoxy, Gomez is increasingly outspoken on social justice issues such as immigration — a priority for Francis. 2. Archbishop Blase Cupich of Chicago Cupich, 65, was only appointed to Chicago in September, but he was Francis’ first major U.S. nomination and one the pope took a personal role in. Cupich is seen as much more in line with Francis’ agenda than the retired archbishop,
Cardinal Francis George. George is nearly 78 so has two more years of conclave eligibility, but he is also seriously ill with cancer. 3. Archbishop Wilton Gregory of Atlanta Gregory, 67, was considered a contender for the Chicago spot, but a red hat would be a nice consolation prize. It would also make some sense: Atlanta is a fast-growing diocese, unlike shrinking dioceses in the Northeast and Midwest, and although it has never had a cardinal as archbishop it may be time. Also, Gregory is one of a handful of African-American bishops and making him a cardinal would be like, well, electing a black president. 4. Archbishop Charles Chaput of Philadelphia Chaput, 70, is widely seen as a leader of the culture warrior wing of the U.S. hierarchy, and not particularly in sync with Francis. But Chaput is hosting the church’s World Day of Families next September, which will serve as the main venue for Francis’ first U.S. visit. The retired archbishop of Philadelphia, Cardinal Justin Rigali, turns 80 in April. On the downside, Philadelphia — like many other dioceses in the declining “Rust Belt” of Catholicism — may no longer be considered an automatic red hat as it once was. Here is the current geographic breakdown of voting members of the College of Cardinals: Europe: 54; Latin America: 16; North America: 15 (11 from the U.S. and 4 from Canada); Africa: 12; Asia: 11; Middle East: 2; Caribbean: 1; Oceania: 1.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
The Request of a Retired Pope: Simply Call Me ‘Father Benedict’ Rather than being called by his papal name “Benedict XVI,” the retired pontiff revealed that since By Elise Harris EWTN News/CNA
his retirement he has wanted to return to his original priestly title and be called simply “Father Benedict.” Father Benedict made his comments in a private conversation with journalist Jorg Bremer, who published bits of them in a Dec. 7 article for German newspaper F.A.Z. According to the journalist, Benedict explained that when he initially stepped down he wanted to be called “Father Benedict” rather than Pope Emeritus or Benedict XVI, but “I was too weak at that point to enforce it.” At least part of the reason for wanting his new title to simply be “Father” rather than Pope Emeritus or Benedict XVI is to put more space between him and the role of the pope, so that there is no confusion as to who the “true Pope” is, Bremer reported. The retired pontiff encouraged the journalist to write about his desire, saying “Yes, do that; that would help.” In their conversation Benedict also spoke of his current relationship with Pope Francis, saying that “we maintain good contact (with each other).” “Francis has a strong presence. Much stronger that I could ever have with my physical and mental weaknesses,” he observed. “To remain in my office would not have been honest.” In his comments the former pontiff also touched on a new volume of his collected works that was released in German with an updated version of a 1972 essay, which no longer suggests that the divorced and remarried can receive Communion, as it once did. He referred to how some have suggested that by publishing the revisions now he was seeking to take an active role in debate surrounding the topic after this year’s
extraordinary synod of bishops on the family. It is “utter nonsense” that his revisions to the essay were made in order to seek a platform in the postsynod convers a t i o n , Benedict explained. Rather than being outspoken, Benedict said that “I try to be as quiet as I can” about these things. Benedict XVI noted how he had originally made the revisions in August, two months before the synod began, and that there is “nothing new” it
what was recently published. He also clarified that he has “always taken the position” that it is “impossible” for those who are divorced and remarried to receive the Eucharist. “As prefect for the Congregation for the Doctrine of the Faith I’ve written even more drastically,” he noted. Divorced and r e m a r r i e d Catholics, he said, need to “feel love of the Church” and should “not be burdened with more than they already have to deal with.”
Jackson Morrison, a student in Mrs. Pierse’s Kindergarten class at St. Patrick’s Cathedral School in Norwich, colors a nativity scene that was later oiled to be hung as “stained glass”.
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MOST REVEREND MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.
December 2014 Dear Sisters and Brothers in Christ, The Diocese of Norwich has had a presence in Haiti since 1985. Our mission, called Outreach to Haiti, has been ministering to the spiritual and physical needs of Haitians in the Port-au- Prince area. We attempt to live the gospel message there by empowering the people of Haiti to help themselves, by promoting the health and education of Haitians.
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 • 860-399-6503
SACRED HEART CEMETERY Wauregan Road, Wauregan • 860-887-1019
ALL HALLOWS CEMETERY Green Hallow Road, Moosup • 860-887-1019 The Church, through it funeral rites: • Celebrates the life and faith of the deceased • Expresses the Church’s belief in the Communion of Saints • Recognizes the spiritual bond that exists between the living and the dead • Brings hope and consolation to the bereaved • Reminds faithful to turn to God in time of need and crisis • Seeks God’s mercy and love • Nourishes the faith of the bereaved • Acknowledges that deceased benefit from our prayers
Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich CT 06360
860-887-1019
We are approaching the fifth anniversary of the terrible, January, 2010 earthquake in Haiti. Our facilities, as with much of the area, suffered severe losses from the earthquake. Fortunately, we suffered no loss of life. Our objectives following the earthquake, were first to provide what aid we could to the Haitian people, and then assess how best to rebuild in Haiti. We now have an efficient and economical plan to rebuild, but we need your help to accomplish it. The diocese asked for your support immediately following the earthquake, and you responded generously with both prayers and money. I am asking for your assistance again. Please prayerfully consider what assistance you can give to our mission in Haiti. Your prayers for the success of the mission and the well-being of the Haitian people are greatly appreciated. Whatever financial assistance you can give would also be much appreciated. You can find out more about our work, our plans for the future, and donate, if you desire, at www.outreachtoHaiti.org, or send donations to Outreach to Haiti: Capital Campaign, 815 Boswell Avenue, Norwich, CT, 06360. Sincerely yours in Christ,
Bishop of Norwich
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Four County Catholic December 2014
ShopRite of Norwich 634 W. Main St.
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ShopRite of E. Hartford 31 Main St.
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214 Spencer St. The Cohen Family
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Catholic Charities Your Donations Make Miracles Possible • The Miracle of Family – The Office of Family Life provides services to help cope with loss and a troubled marriage. • The Miracle of Caring – Behavioral Health Services provide non-judgmental counseling for depression, substance abuse and addiction. • The Miracle of Basic Needs – Help is provided to develop a plan for self-sufficiency, assisting families in need of food, shelter and emergency transportation. • The Miracle of Life – Adoption planning program ensures the placement of a child in a loving, committed and safe family. Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich, welcomes your kind donations to continue our mission to respond to Christ’s call to care for those in need right here in our local communities - helping our neighbors get through difficult times and...
...share in the miracle of hope.
• Catholic Charities Main Office • 860-889-8346 • cjackel@norwichdiocese.net • 331 Main Street, Norwich, CT 06360
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Four County Catholic December 2014
St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich 860-889-4174 www.St-patrickschoolnorwich.org
Academic Excellence. Character. Self-confidence.
Sacred Heart School, Taftville 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org Sacred Heart School, Groton 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org St. Edward School, Stafford Springs 860-684-2600 www.stedward-stafford.org St. James School, Danielson 860-774-3281 www.stjamesdanielson.com St. John Paul II Regional School, Middletown 860-347-2978 www.jpii.org St. John School, Old Saybrook 860-388-0849 www.saintjohnschoolos.com St. Joseph School, Baltic 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.com St. Joseph School, New London 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org St. Michael School, Pawcatuck 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com
Saint John School Robotics Club Teams Advance to FLL State Tournament Old Saybrook, CT – Both of the Saint John School Robotics Club teams, Submitted by Mother Elaine, SCMC
St. Matthew Pre-School, Tolland 860-872-0200 www.stmatthewct.org St. Bernard Pre-School, Rockville 860-875-0753 x113 www.saintbernardchurch.org
Principal, St. John School, Old Saybrook
“LazerBots” and “Intelligent Gamers,”
received trophies at the FIRST Lego League (FLL) Regional Qualifying Robotics Tournament on November 15th in Wolcott, CT. This is Saint John School’s third year of FLL, an international non-profit organization founded
to inspire young people’s interest and participation in science and technology. Eleven students in grades 5th to 7th worked this fall to prepare their robots and discover ways to make learning easier and more fun. During the qualifying
To learn more, contact the Diocesan School Office, 860-887-4086, www.norwichdso.org or contact one of the diocesan schools.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
tournament, fourteen teams were judged on their robot performance, teamwork skills, display of the FLL core values, and project presentations. The Intelligent Gamers scored the highest single round point total during the Robot Challenge Game. The Best Robot Performance award earned them a “Golden Ticket” to move on to the State Tournament on December 7th. The LazerBots team received the judges’ trophy for Gracious Professionalism®. This award recognizes a team whose members show each other and other teams respect at all times. The team showed that both friendly competition and mutual gain are possible, on and off the playing field. Success during the robot game, teamwork challenge, and presentation also earned this team a pass to move on to the State Tournament. This year’s science and technology challenge is called “Learning Unleashed”. For the research project component, the LazerBot team came up with an innovative idea for improving the way senior citizens learn how to use computers and other electronics. The Intelligent Gamers created a solution to help middle school students learn and practice Math. In addition to meeting with Saint John School teachers, the Robotics Club members reached out into the community to share their ideas. Team LazerBots visited the Old Saybrook and Groton Senior Centers to talk with their Technology Clubs. The Intelligent Gamers toured Sonalysts in Waterford and spoke with four members of their computer game programming division. The team has also been in contact with a professor at Worcester Polytechnic Institute to discuss their idea. For more information, visit the Robotics Club page on the school website. http://saintjohnschoolos.org/page/robotics-club. Saint John School is fully accredited with certified teachers, and is known for individual student growth, building self-discipline, and confidence. A comprehensive 6th to 8th grade Middle School program, prepares students to excel in high school and beyond. A modern facility, closeknit family atmosphere, and ad-
herence to Christian values, provides the ideal environment for “educating the whole child.” FIRST Lego League (FLL) is a partnership between FIRST®
4 . 1 24
(For Inspiration and Recognition of Science and Technology) and the LEGO Group. The FLL mission is to inspire young people to be science and technology lead-
ers, by engaging them in exciting mentor-based programs that build science, engineering and technology skills, that inspire innovation, and that foster well-
rounded life capabilities including self-confidence, communication, and leadership. For more information, visi http://www.first legoleague.org/.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Community Turns Out to Help Former St. Bernard Quarterback in Leukemia Battle
On Sunday, former St. Bernard Saints quarterback Kyle Brahm saw a return to form, tossing a By Adam Benson Reprint from the Norwich Bulletin
pair of touchdown passes during a late-morning game at his home field against the most hated opponent of his life: cancer. Brahm, 25, who graduated in 2007, was diagnosed with stage 2
chronic myeloid leukemia on Sept. 29 - a circumstance that quickly sprung his tight family into action to raise money for his medical expenses. It culminated with a flag football tournament Sunday that drew more than 120 people to St. Bernard, with all proceeds going toward Brahm’s treatment. “It’s so uplifting. It’s an unbelievable turnout,” Brahm said in between games. “We’ve got eight fields going at once. Its an unbelievable turnout.” Chronic myeloid leukemia also known as CML – starts in a person’s bone marrow and then invades the blood. Only about 10 percent of leukemias are CML, and about 5,980 cases will be di-
agnosed in 2014, according to the American Cancer Society. A skilled and popular athlete during his St. Bernard career, Brahm helped lead the Saints to a Class S baseball championship in 2007. Even before Sunday’s gathering, the Brahm family, who live in East Lyme, has had huge support for efforts to help Kyle defeat cancer, raising $9,800 through a GoFundMe page set up Sept. 30 by Kyle’s sister, Meghan. “Our family is incredibly closeknit, and we just rally,” Meghan said. She was studying for a doctorate degree in psychology in Ireland when Kyle was diagnosed and took the first flight back to be by his side.
There’s more to Saint Bernard School!
During the trip, she began planting the seeds for Sunday’s fundraiser. Two of Kyle’s three other siblings graduated from St. Bernard. And his long-time girlfriend Amanda Northcutt, a registered nurse at Hartford Hospital who attended Montville High School, said the town itself has coalesced around one of their own – with Kyle leading them on. “I think he’s the only reason I’ve been strong this entire time,” she said on Sunday. “He’s very level-headed about it. He keeps us all in check.” Of course, the diagnosis hit the Brahm family hard. His mother, Julie, is still overcome with emotion when recalling that day.
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“I was devastated. I just said, ‘no, not my son,’ “ Brahm said. “The love and support here is just amazing. He’s our inspiration. He gets us under control.” The Brahms will be getting a second opinion at the Dana-Farber Cancer Institute in Boston. But Kyle – true to form as a competitor – remains practical in his approach to the disease. “I was completely shocked when I went in. I was 25 and completely healthy,” Brahm said. “But I’ve been really calm and positive about it.” That’s an attitude that has been adopted by his family as well. “There’s always that fear of the unknown. One day at a time. That’s what I’m holding on to,” Julie Brahm said.
OPEN HOUSE JAN. 11, 2015 from 12 pm – 2 pm
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.
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St. John Paul II Regional Catholic School 87 South Main Street / Middletown, CT 06457 Telephone: 860-347-2978 / www.jpii.org
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Four County Catholic D ember 2014
Did You Know? December 1-7 Cookie cutter week. Make cookies in shapes of Christmas symbols. December 12 Gingerbread house day. Talk about how Jesus had no home for his birth. Read Luke 2:7 about where Jesus was born.
by Karen H Whiting
Nativity Scene Word Search Do you have a nativity set? You can move the figures closer to it as it gets closer to Christmas. Do the word search on the animals and people that were in Bethlehem for the first Christmas. Use the unused letters to see what the angels said.
Angel Sheep Shepherd Mary
December 20 World Day of prayer and action for children. Pray for poor children and buy a gift for a needy child. December 25 Christmas Day is nine months after the time the Angel Gabriel came to Mary to ask her to be the mother of Jesus. It was the sixth month of the Jewish calendar, March in our calendar. Read Luke 1:26.
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The students in the 3rd grade Religious Education class at St. Bridget of Kildare Church in Moodus, taught by Mrs. Kim Danaher and Miss Alyssa Dill researched different saints for several weeks and then on All Saints Day, dressed up as those saints and went to all the classrooms to tell the other students in grades 1 through 5 who they were dressed as and explained who their saint was. It was an enjoyable experience for all. The saints in the photo are; St. Victor Ferrer, St. Joan of Arc, St. Luke, St. Emma, St. Lucy, St. Anne, St. Mary, St. Paul, St. Brendan and St. Olaf. Submitted by Dan D’Amelio, DRE, St. Bridget of Kildare Church.
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Four County Catholic December 2014
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Four County Catholic December 2014
Pope Confirms He Will Visit Philadelphia in September Vativan City - Pope Francis said he would attend the World Meeting of Families in PhiladelBy Francis X. Rocca Catholic News Service
phia in September, making it the first confirmed stop on what is expected to be a more extensive papal visit to North America. The pope made the announcement Nov. 17 in a speech opening an interreligious conference on traditional marriage. “I would like to confirm that, God willing, in September 2015 I will go to Philadelphia for the eighth World Meeting of Families,” the pope said. The announcement had been widely expected, since Pope Benedict XVI had said before his retirement that he hoped to attend the Philadelphia event. Popes typically fulfill their predecessors’ publicly known travel plans, as Pope Francis did in July 2013 when he attended World Youth Day in Rio de Janeiro. Philadelphia Archbishop Charles J. Chaput, who was in Rome for the families meeting, told Catholic News Service the announcement was “a surprise in the sense that it was announced so early; you know usually they don’t make these announcements -- four months out is the typical and here we are 10 months away, and the Holy Father said he is coming to Philadelphia.” “The Holy Father has said that he’s going to be coming to Philadelphia for quite a few months,” he told Catholic News Service. “He’s been telling me that personally, but for him to announce it officially that he is coming so early is really quite an unusual thing, so it’s going to reenergize our efforts. There’s lot of enthusiasm already, but I think 90 percent of the enthusiasm’s based on the fact that the Holy Father will be with us, and now that he’s said that I expect that there will be even a double amount of enthusiasm ... and I’m very happy about that.” Catholicphilly.com reported, the archbishop noted, that Pope Francis has focused “on the many
challenges that families face today globally. His charisma, presence and voice will electrify the gathering. “As I’ve said many times before, I believe that the presence of the Holy Father will bring all of us -- Catholic and non-Catholic alike -- together in tremendously powerful, unifying and healing ways. We look forward to Pope Francis’ arrival in Philadelphia next September, and we will welcome him joyfully with open arms and prayerful hearts.” In August, Pope Francis told reporters accompanying him on the plane back from South Korea that he “would like” to go to Philadelphia. The pope also noted that President Barack Obama and the U.S. Congress had invited him to Washington, D.C., and that the secretary-general of the United Nations had invited him to New York. “Maybe the three cities together, no?” Pope Francis said, adding that he could also visit the shrine of Our Lady of Guadalupe in Mexico on the same trip -“but it is not certain.” Jesuit Father Federico Lombardi, Vatican spokesman, told reporters Nov. 17 that Pope Francis wanted to “guarantee organizers” that he would be present at the meeting in Philadelphia, “but he did not say anything about other possible stops or events during that trip. And for now I do not have anything to add in that regard.” Although few details of the papal visit have been made public, organizers for the families’ congress expect Pope Francis to arrive Sept. 25 for an afternoon public visit with civic officials. That would begin his first trip as pope to the United States and the second papal visit to Philadelphia in a generation; St. Pope John Paul II visited the city in 1979. He will be the fourth sitting pope to visit the U.S. During his visit, Pope Francis is expected to attend the Festival of Families Sept. 26, a cultural celebration for hundreds of thousands of people along Philadelphia’s main cultural boulevard, the Benjamin Franklin Parkway.
Donna Farrell, executive director for the 2015 World Meeting of Families and its chief planner, said although Philadelphia has hosted St. Pope John Paul’s visit, the city has “not had anything like this unique Festival of Families. It’s really going to be something special.” Registration for the congress opened in mid-November. The meeting will be a weeklong series of talks, discussions and activi-
ties. Pope Francis is expected to celebrate a public Mass for an estimated 1 million people on Sept. 26 on the steps of the Philadelphia Museum of Art, in full view of the crowds arrayed from the museum down the Ben Franklin Parkway. Archbishop Joseph E. Kurtz of Louisville, Kentucky, president of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops, welcomed the pope’s
announcement. “The presence of Pope Francis at the World Meeting of Families in our country will be a joyful moment for millions of Catholics and people of good will. Our great hope has been that the Holy Father would visit us next year to inspire our families in their mission of love. It is a blessing to hear the pope himself announce the much anticipated news,” Archbishop Kurtz said.
The Sistine Chapel: New Breath, New Light A two day conference marking the 20th anniversary of the restoration of Michelangelo’s Courtesy of Vatican Radio
frescos in the Sistine Chapel opened on Thursday in Rome. The event organised by the Vatican Museums is entitled “The Sistine Chapel 20 years later: New breath, new light.” The conference will examine the current state of frescoes, as well as new methods being taken to protect the priceless artistic treasure. On Wednesday evening in the Sistine Chapel the world’s media was invited to view the new lighting and air systems that have been installed, in order show the frescos off to
their best advantage and protect the Chapel against humidity. According to the Director of the Vatican Museums the new lighting system is meant to provide a gentle but total illumination to the frescos but at the same time is non-invasive thus respecting the stylistic and historic reality of the Sistine Chapel. The US-based company CARRIER has provided a state-of-the-art heating, ventilating and air-conditioning (HVAC) system for the Chapel, specially designed to address the challenges of protecting Michelangelo’s masterpieces against deterioration. “…the system was extremely
advanced, advanced in the sense that we have applied very very advanced technology, we have invented some of the technology to be able to fulfill very very complex requirements”, said Michel Grabon, Director of AdvanTE3C SC, Carrier HVAC Europe, who was in the Sistine Chapel on Wednesday evening and who worked on the project. He went on to stress the importance on maintaining stable operating conditions inside the Chapel. “You can have 100 people, 2000 people inside, you know in a few minutes it can change, so it is extremely important to be able to respond to the change of the load in a very very quick time.”
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sh s ing you a HAPPY& & HEALTHY Holiday Season From our family to yours
XWH 0\VWLF ‡ ww .Brusto tolo lon.com ‡ 860-536-2626 Serving Serving Southeastern Southeastern Connecticutt’s Community for f over 60 Years