Four County Catholic February 2020

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

LENT

Volume 32 • Number 2 • FEBRUARY 2020

BEGINS ON FEBRUARY 26TH SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

Make This

forever

a Holy Place Dedication of St. Michael the Archangel Church, Pawcatuck

In this Issue: page

6

page

11 page

16 FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

page

2

20

“Amber was such a spirited girl who met all obstacles with such courage. Her sense of humor, spunk, and her positive outlook on life was a source of inspiration to all of us.”

Sister Mary Patrick, Principal at St. Joseph School in Baltic, remembering Amber Smith.

"These consecrated lives give witness to the love of God at work in the world and enrich the Church of Christ. It is with joy and gratitude that we invite the renewal of these vows today."

Bishop Michael R. Cote at the Mass of Thanksgiving for the Gift of Consecrated Life

“So, God, who gives to those of goodwill both the desire and the accomplishment of the things that belong to Him, is the one who began this work, and the one who has brought it to completion.”

St. Augustine’s words echoed by Bishop Cote at St. Michael Archangel Church Dedication.

"Nobody at the March for Life is demanding rights or benefits for themselves. They are simply marching for those that cannot.

Xavier student, Joe Marcin, reflecting on the March for Life

On the Cover

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­ESTABLISHED IN 1989 AND PUBLISHED EACH MONTH EXCEPT JULY. PUBLISHER

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

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DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

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The deadline for advertising and editorial is the first Monday of the previous month. Articles limited to 500-word max; letters to the editor limited to 200-word max and must include name, address and phone number for verification. Email photos as JPEG attachments and MS Word copy to editorial@norwichdiocese.net. Publication not guaranteed. The Editor reserves the right to reject, omit or edit all editorial and advertising copy. Published opinions and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of this newspaper.

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Podemos ayudar

We Can Help To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance for victims, please call: The Diocesan Reporting Line @ 1-800-624-7407 Incidents involving abuse of vulnerable adults aged 18-59 should be reported to: Connecticut Department of Developmental Services - AID Division for Persons with Intellectual Disabilities 1-844-878-8923

Fax 860.859.1253

POSTMASTER - SEND ADDRESS CHANGES TO: Four County Catholic, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

Four County Catholic Issue 2 February (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

Periodicals postage paid in Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional mailing offices.

Bishop Michael R. Cote anoints the walls of St. Michael the Archangel Church, Pawcatuck at the Mass of Dedication held January 18th. Full story can be found on Page 16.

A photo gallery can be viewed at NorwichDiocese.org/Photo-Gallery.

Cover photo by Tim Martin.

If the incident involves a minor (persons under the age of 18), you must also call: State of CT Department of Children and Families Care Line 1-800-842-2288 -OR –State of NY Child Protective Services 1-800-635-1522

860.887.9294

Incidents involving abuse of vulnerable adults aged 60 and over should be reported to: Connecticut Department of Social Services for the Elderly 1-888-385-4225

Para reportar contacto inapropiado de cualquier tipo por medio de un representante de la Diócesis de Norwich o para asistencia a víctimas, por favor llame a La Línea de Reportaje de la Diócesis de Norwich 1-800-624-7407 Si el incidente involucra a un menor (personas menores de 18 años), también debe llamar a Departamento de Niños y Familias de CT 1-800-842-2288 -O-Servicios de Protección de Niños del Estado de NY 1-800-635-1522.

Incidentes relacionados con el abuso de adultos vulnerables de 18-59 años de edad deben ser reportados a Departamento de Servicios al Desarrollo del Estado de Connecticut-División de Ayuda para Personas con Incapacidad Intelectual 1-844-878-8923.

Incidentes relacionados con el abuso de adultos vulnerables de 60 años de edad o más deben ser reportados a Departamento de Servicios Sociales Para Ancianos de Connecticut 1-888-385-4225.

THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY Witness to Steadfast Faith the generations who came before them.

One of the many pleasures I have in being your bishop is witnessing the numerous acts of faith demonstrated throughout the diocese.

This building has meant so much, to so many, for so long. It is, as are all churches, a place where we experience our deepest sorrows and our greatest joys. It is a place where we come together as families to become family. One family in faith.

As Christians, we are people of faith. It is faith that sets us apart in service to others and in reverence to life itself. Through this faith, and the guidance of the Holy Spirit, we accomplish amazing works.

Recently, many of you traveled to Washington DC to participate in the March for Life – leaving the comfort of your homes on a cold winter night to journey by bus to stand for life. All in the hope that your presence would be a witness to the world that all life matters. That is faith.

Your patient attendance, year after year, did not go unnoticed. This year history was made, in large part because of this unwavering faith. For the first time since the March for Life began in 1974, the President of the United States stood with you.

Faith, accompanied by perseverance, can accomplish great things.

I witnessed this in another form when, on January 18th, I watched Very Reverend Dennis Perkins unlock the doors of Saint Michael the Archangel church in Pawcatuck. For nearly a decade, the faithful parishioners and friends of the community have worked tirelessly to preserve and rebuild the church, honoring the sacrifices of

There remains a long-standing faith at Saint Michael’s. The new structure stands on the original foundation set in place over 150 years ago. A strong foundation it is, both physically and spiritually. The faith and love of this community for the Universal Church is apparent in the number of priestly vocations they have raised-up over the years. In a few months, with the ordination of Deacon Michael Bovino to the priesthood, this faith community will have elevated 19 priests for the Church.

When we work to build up the kingdom of God, it is good for us to remember that we do not accomplish it alone. Saint Augustine when he found himself blessing a church said: “Let us offer our thanksgiving above all to the Lord our God, from Whom every good and perfect gift comes. Let us praise His goodness with our whole hearts. He it was, who inspired in you, His faithful people, the will to build this house of prayer; He stirred up your desire and gave you His help. He awakened enthusiasm among you who at first were unconvinced and guided to a successful conclusion your efforts of goodwill.

So, God, who gives to those of good will both the desire and the accomplishment of the things that belong to Him, is the one who began this work, and the one who has brought it to completion.“ Saint Augustine’s words apply to any good we accomplish, whether it is marching in support of life from conception to natural death, feeding the poor, instructing young people or the various other ministries that we, as a diocesan family, support through our prayers, time and charitable contributions. We are able to accomplish so much when we allow the loving hand of God to guide us.

As we approach Lent, may the spirit of sacrifice, so central to this Holy Season, provide us a fitting connection to the giving efforts of all engaged in lifting lives. Please never for a second underestimate the good you do for others.

I pray that God may strengthen your faith this Lent and that you will be a witness of steadfast faith to others.

Sincerely yours in Christ’s love,

Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

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THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY Testigos de una fe sólida FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo,

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Una de las muchas satisfacciones que tengo al ser su obispo es ser testigo de los numerosos actos de fe demostrados a través de la diócesis.

Como cristianos, somos personas de fe. Es la fe la que nos distingue en el servicio a los demás y en el respeto a la vida misma. Realizamos obras asombrosas a través de esta fe y de la guía del Espíritu Santo.

Recientemente, muchos de ustedes viajaron a Washington DC para participar en la Marcha por la Vida, dejando la comodidad de sus hogares en una noche fría de invierno para viajar en autobús para defender la vida. Todo con la esperanza de que su presencia fuese ante el mundo un testimonio de que toda vida importa.

Eso es fe.

Su asistencia constante, año tras año, no pasó desapercibida. Este año se hizo historia, en gran parte debido a esta fe sólida. Por primera vez desde que comenzó la Marcha por la Vida en 1974, el Presidente de los Estados Unidos se puso de su parte.

La fe, acompañada de perseverancia, puede lograr grandes cosas.

Fui testigo de esto en otra forma cuando, el 18 de enero, vi al Reverendísimo Dennis Perkins abrir las puertas de la iglesia Saint Michael the Archangel en Pawcatuck. Durante casi una década, los fieles feligreses y amigos de la comunidad han trabajado incansablemente para

preservar y reconstruir la iglesia, honrando los sacrificios de las generaciones que vinieron antes que ellos.

Este edificio ha significado mucho, para tantos, durante tanto tiempo. Al igual que todas las iglesias, es, un lugar donde experimentamos nuestras más profundas penas y nuestras mayores alegrías. Es un lugar donde nos reunimos como familias para convertirnos en familia. Una familia en la fe.

Ahí en Saint Michael permanece una fe de larga data. La nueva estructura se encuentra en su lugar sobre la base original de hace más de 150 años. Es una base sólida, tanto físicamente como espiritualmente. La fe y el amor de esta comunidad por la Iglesia Universal se pone de manifiesto en el número de vocaciones sacerdotales que han inspirado a lo largo de los años. En pocos meses, con la ordenación al sacerdocio del diácono Michael Bovino, esta comunidad de fe habrá entregado 19 sacerdotes para la Iglesia.

Cuando trabajamos para edificar el reino de Dios, es bueno recordar que no lo logramos solos.

San Agustín, cuando se encontró bendiciendo una iglesia, dijo: "Ofrezcamos nuestra acción de gracias al Señor nuestro Dios, de quien proviene todo don bueno y perfecto. Alabemos Su bondad con todo nuestro corazón. Fue él quien inspiró en ustedes Su pueblo fiel, la voluntad de construir esta casa de oración; Inquietó sus aspiraciones y les dio Su ayuda.

Despertó entusiasmo entre ustedes, que al principio no estaban convencidos y los guió para concluir

con éxito sus esfuerzos de buena voluntad.

Por lo tanto, Dios, que da a aquellos de buena voluntad tanto el deseo como el logro de las cosas que le pertenecen, es él quien comienza esta obra, y es él quien la ha llevado a término."

JUAN 10:10

Las palabras de san Agustín se aplican a cualquier bien que logremos, ya sea marchando en apoyo a la vida desde la concepción hasta la muerte natural, alimentando a los pobres, instruyendo a los jóvenes o en los diversos ministerios que nosotros, como familia diocesana, apoyamos a través de nuestras oraciones, tiempo y contribuciones caritativas.

Somos capaces de lograr mucho cuando dejamos que nos guíe la mano amorosa de Dios.

A medida que nos acercamos a la Cuaresma, que el espíritu de sacrificio, tan central en este Tiempo Santo, nos proporcione una conexión adecuada con los esfuerzos de todos los que se dedican a levantar vidas. Por favor, nunca por un segundo subestime el bien que hace por los demás.

Ruego que en esta Cuaresma Dios fortalezca su fe y que pueda dar ante los demás testimonio de una fe sólida.

Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo,

Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich

We pray for men to answer the call to be instruments of God’s grace as priests of Jesus Christ.

Father Gregory Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations

D

Mr. Larry Barile 3rd Year Theology Pope St. John XXIII Weston, Massachusetts

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

Mr. Dharen Brochero 1st Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

uring New Year’s week, more than 8,500 Catholic college students, Focus Missionaries, priests and religious from across the country and around the world gathered for a four-and-a-half-day national conference on the Catholic faith.

Its focus was how to be a disciple of Christ and how to draw others into His discipleship. Between 20 and 25 students from UCONN’s Storrs campus attended this phenomenal experience with four members of the UCONN FOCUS team.

We had the honor of attending Mass with the Apostolic Nuncio of the United States, His Excellency Archbishop Christopher Pierre, the Pope’s personal representative here in the United States.

He offered Holy Mass as the main celebrant and attended three days of the conference. We were also blessed with a visit from His Eminence, Cardinal

Mueller from Germany. At one Mass, I counted 13 bishops present, each of whom spent much of the week with the students, priests, religious and other guests. What a blessing to be able to spend time with such a powerful part of God’s family!

During the two days I attended the conference, I spent much of my time at the National Vocation Director’s booth, Diocesanpriest.com. There I had the privilege of speaking to seminarians who are at different stages of their discernment. The highlight of this week was on New Year’s night, when all the students were invited to Adoration of our Lord in the Holy Eucharist. During that time an estimated 300 priests and bishops heard confessions for more than two hours. It’s truly inspiring to see so many young people flocking to the sacrament of confession.

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

MONTHLY

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

If anyone doubts that the Church is gaining strength in this country, all they have to do is attend a FOCUS event and see the spirit of God at work. The building of the Kingdom of God is still going in a great direction! Praise God! Plan on meeting me next year, when we gather for SEEK2021 in St. Louis.

As we look toward the Lenten season which begins February 26th, please keep our seminarians, young married couples, college missionaries and disciples of Christ in your prayers. Pray that they will continue to grow in their faith, and while opening their hearts to Christ, truly discover the Father’s will for each of them. May they all not hesitate to respond generously to our Lord with their own yes! May this decade of the 2020s be a period of great growth in faith for the whole Church and especially here in the United States.

for Vocations

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

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

Ruben Sanchez 1st Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

FEBRUARY 20th St. Joseph Church, Norwich 6pm

MARCH 19th 6pm St. Joseph, Chester

www.God-Calls.com

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

Our Diocese

Vocations Corner

Deacon Michael Bovino 4th Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

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FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Amber Grace Smith’s Lasting Gift

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Smith family enjoying a Make A Wish Foundation vacation.

Back Row: Matt, Caron Front Row: Marie, Amber, Ryan and Brianna Smith

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

F

ew of us know the pain of losing a child. As a parent of three, I cannot imagine having to send one of them home to be with God, yet I know that every year, thousands of parents fight through the pain of just that as childhood cancer claims another life. In all my life, I have never met a more faith filled family than the family of Matt and Caron Smith, who endured such a tragedy in December 2018. The Smiths’ second youngest child, Amber Grace Smith, became sick with a rare brain cancer, glioblastoma multiforme, when she was only 6 years old. After being hospitalized from a stroke caused by the cancer as well as enduring multiple brain surgeries, Amber succumbed to her illness at the age of 7, leaving her

mom, dad and sisters, Marie and Brianna and brother, Ryan, with a gaping hole in their lives and hearts.

Rather than turning inward this very special, close-knit family looked outward. Marie, an eighth grader, submitted an essay about her Catholic education and faith as part of the Seton Scholarship Dinner Essay Contest. Selected as the winner, Marie was asked to read her essay at the dinner in November, which she did with the poise of someone much older. With not a dry eye in the room, she described how her faith helped her and her family process her sister’s passing and how she knew that her sister was at peace with God. Clearly, Matt and Caron Smith have instilled an exceedingly

strong faith in their children, as they too live their faith every day.

During Amber’s illness, her school, St. Joseph School in Baltic, provided much needed support to Amber and her family. They held Holy Hours and prayer sessions, delivered meals to the family, held fundraisers and made donations to the Connecticut Children’s Medical Center. Despite her many challenges, Amber wanted to return to school in September of 2018, which she did do. Her secondgrade teachers, Miss Masucci, Mrs. Siebert and the principal, Sister Mary Patrick Mulready, “went above and beyond to aid, help and encourage her in any way they possibly could,” Matt and Caron shared.

Remembering Amber,

Sister Mary Patrick said, “Amber was such a spirited girl who met all obstacles with such courage. Her sense of humor, spunk, and her positive outlook on life was a source of inspiration to all of us.”

After having gone through Amber’s illness with the support of the St. Joseph School community, Matt and Caron decided that Amber would want them to do something to benefit the school. Carrying out her wish, Matt and Caron established the Amber Grace Smith Scholarship Endowment within the Catholic Foundation this past November. The endowment will be used to provide tuition assistance to students in need.

“We know that Amber would be touched and grateful for scholarships for her fellow students as well as incoming new students,“ Caron said. “This endowment is important to us because it encompasses a lot of what was meaningful to Amber: her school, her teachers, and her friends,” her parents said.

“What better way to remember such an amazing and inspiring girl than to have this endowment scholarship fund set up in her name. Amber’s

giving spirit will live on,” Sister Mary Patrick said.

As we celebrate Valentine’s Day this month, I will be thinking about Amber and the Smith family. Their hearts, full of love and faith, remain so strong and reflect the love that their beloved Amber gave and continues to send to them every day from Heaven. I am sure their story will inspire many of you as it does me.

Merciful Saviour Gift Shop

If you are interested in contributing to Amber’s endowment or any of the endowments of the Catholic Foundation, please contact Mary Ellen Mahoney, executive director, at memahoney@norwichdiocese.net or call (860) 886-1928, ext. 13.

Are you looking for something that ignites yours or someone else’s faith?

Find the perfect item that celebrates the deeper meaning of Lent, First Holy Communion or any occasion!

860-537-0079

392 South Main Street, Colchester

Mon-Wed 10-5, Thurs & Fri 10-6, Sat 10-3

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

Our Diocese

Our mission is simple: To build God's kingdom in our families and neighborhoods by focusing on the good news of Jesus through books, Scripture, Sacramentals, music and other resources. We also carry beautiful, inexpensive greeting cards and unique gifts that you will love. You'll be hard-pressed to find a better combination of selection and personal service anywhere else. If we don't have what you are looking for, we will find it and order it for you... Stop in the store, meet our great staff and experience Merciful Saviour today.

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Beautiful Things For Children

Come See Our First Communion Dress Sale Exquisite Collection All In-Stock Dressesof Communion and up to Christening Wear December 26, 2019 ~ January 28, 2020

70% OFF

Gown, Suits & only.

Accessories Too! In-stock merchandise All dress sales final.

ON THE BRIDGE IN DOWNTOWN MYSTIC

860-536-4895

www.thebluehorse.com

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

OPEN SEVEN DAYS · PERSONAL ATTENTION

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St. Thomas Travelers of Voluntown is offering a trip to the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy in Stockbridge, MA. on Wednesday, April 29, 2020 Tour includes: * * * *

A visit to the National Shrine of the Divine Mercy Dinner on your own at Cracker Barrel Deluxe motor coach transportation $59.00 per person.

Departs 7:30 am - Returns (approx.) 7:30-8 pm Pick up at St. Thomas Church, Voluntown Park & Ride Exit 22 (Griswold) Exit 11 off of I-395 (Norwich) Park & Ride Exit 18 off Route 2 (Colchester) For more information contact Pat Gwiazda 860-376-9952 Payment due March 27th

Independently Owned and Operated Since 1881

Steve Bennardo

Owner/Funeral Director 433 Main Street, Danielson, CT

25 Main Street, Central Village, CT

860-774-3284

860-564-2147

God’s Plan Includes Helping Others

T

hose of you who have been fortunate to visit Haiti know firsthand that on the surface it looks beautiful and peaceful in many areas. This belies the fact that the Haitian people have seen more than their fair share of challenges, especially the January 12, 2010 earthquake that killed approximately 250,000 men, women and children. As Haitians mark the ten-year anniversary of this terrible tragedy, they again are facing major political unrest, but what is noteworthy is the indomitable spirit of the Haitian people. It’s a spirit filled with joy and hope reflecting their faith in God. The Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti has been working in Haiti for more than 38 years. The mission of Outreach is “Helping Haitians Help Haitians,” which is why we employ 21 men and women to manage Outreach’s ministry and programs that include a medical clinic, health care, food and nutrition, and education sponsorships that annually help more than 200 students earn an education in primary, secondary and post-secondary schools.

If you have ever wondered whether our efforts in Haiti make a

difference, consider the following.

In 1982 approximately 35 percent of Haitians were literate, but today, in 2020, more than 60 percent of the population can read. As more Haitians become educated, they will have more opportunities to have a voice in their government and civil society. I remain convinced that education is the key to helping young people in Haiti discover their God-given talents and to help the country develop into a successful and peaceful nation.

Four of our new students attending university in Haiti give hope to all of us. Faelle is 19 and attends Notre Dame D’Haiti University. She has two brothers and a sister, and after

graduation is looking to create her own business to help disadvantaged people, especially children. Ralph is 19 and attends Quisqueya University, where he is majoring in civil engineering. He wants to help families in poverty by creating construction companies and jobs.

Litaicha Michaella is 19 and one of five children. Her mother has had breast cancer and her father doesn’t have a good job. She attends IHECE and would like “to help other people in need.”

Nineteen-year-old Jean is one of eight children and is majoring in computer science at ESIH. He wants to help his family, friends and fellow Haitians.

These young people help to put a face on all the young people in Haiti, where more than 51 percent of the population is under 25 years of age. They reflect the hard work, intelligence and passion of many of their peers.

Haiti, like all countries, will see its future leadership coming from the ranks of the young. Abraham Lincoln is credited with saying: "A child is a person who is going to carry on what you have started.

He is going to sit where you are sitting, and when you are gone; attend to those things, which you think are important. You may adopt all policies you please, but how they are carried out depends on him. He will assume control of your cities, states and nations. All your books are going to be judged, praised or condemned by him. The fate of humanity is in his hands."

God’s plan includes our helping each other and doing good when and where we can. Thank you for helping us to give young people in Haiti the opportunity to contribute to building a better nation.

To find out how you can help visit OutreachtoHaiti.org

Our Diocese

By Susan Wallace

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Friendly, Warm, Helpful We Make a Difference.

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

From the minute you walk through our front doors you can feel the warmth. Whether you’re a resident or a visitor, our receptionist welcomes you with a friendly greeting. The hallways are filled with pleasant smiles from our staff. When a helping hand is needed, you know it’s right around the corner.

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To learn more about our welcoming community and maintenance-free living call us today at 860-779-8700 for a tour or information. We offer assisted and independent lifestyle options in beautiful cottages or apartments, both with a long list of amenities.

36 Vina Lane, Brooklyn, CT • www.piercecare.org

Our Lady of Lourdes Parish invites you to Bishop Robert Baron’s DVD series on

THE EUCHARIST

Creamery Brook is part of the Continuum of Care at

Vatican II called the Eucharist “The source and summit of Christian life” yet over ½ of Catholics do not know the Church teaching on Christ’s “real presence” in the Eucharist.

This series will help you delve into the mystery of Christ's presence in your life and the centrality of the Eucharist as an important part of it.

Presentations will be Wednesdays of Lent: March 4, 11, 18, 25 and April 1 at 6:30pm in our Meeting Room Reserve a seat on line at secretary@ololgf.org or phone 860.464.7251.

A Participant Study Guide may be purchased for $12 at the first session.

Our Lady Of Lourdes - 1650 Rte 12, Gales Ferry

Wednesday, February 26th

Devoting Their Lives to God's Calling

By Ryan Blessing

T

hose who have devoted their lives to God’s calling gathered to celebrate and renew that commitment at the Mass of Thanksgiving for the Gift of Consecrated Life on February 2nd at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich.

Sister Cadotte was joined by Sisters Paulette Gariepy, DHS, and Dominic J. Valla, ASCJ, both 60 years; Sisters Bonnie Morrow, DHS, and Yvette J. Rainville, DHS, 50 years; and Brother Jude M. McFeely, FI, 25 years.

Together, they share a combined 310 years of consecrated life.

Six Jubilarians marked anniversaries of between 25 and 65 years of consecrated life in service to the Lord, such as sister Blanche Cadotte, DHS, with 65 years.

The Jubilarians gathered with clergy called to a consecrated life, such as various orders of nuns, secular and apostolic institutes and monastic communities. Pope John Paul II

established the yearly celebration in 1997 to honor vocations in the Catholic Church and as a way to give thanks to women and men in consecrated life.

Bishop Cote said. "It is with joy and gratitude that we invite the renewal of these vows today."

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, led the renewal of the vows by the gathering of sisters, brothers and religious priests.

"These consecrated lives give witness to the love of God at work in the world and enrich the Church of Christ,"

Welcome women of all ages!

10th Annual Norwich Women’s Conference

Our Tapestry of Faith: Affirming Feminine Gifts and Strengths

Saturday, March 28, 2020 9am-3pm St. Bernard School, Uncasville Keynote Speaker

Afternoon Workshop Option

Danielle Bean

Registration Fee: (Price includes lunch*)

By February 21st. - $30 After February 22nd. - $40 Students - $20 Religious are free

Mass celebrated by Bishop Michael R. Cote D.D. Reconciliation and adoration

Our Diocese

Author of You Are Enough: What Women of the Bible Teach You About Your Mission and Worth

1- Faith and Family 2- Women of the Bible 3- Prayer Always/ All Ways 4- Mary Not A Gentle Woman 5- Our Sisters’ Stories 6- Faith Sharing

Register online at NorwichDiocese.org

Deadline for registration March 13, 2020 No refunds or event transfers Please bring a canned good for those in need! *Gluten Free lunch option will be available*

Co-sponsored by: Office of Faith Events and Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women ❈February 24- March 2, BUY one ticket get the 2nd HALF PRICE❈

Office of Faith Events, 199 Broadway, Norwich, CT, 06360

860-848-2237 ext. 304

Visit NorwichDiocese.org to view the complete photo gallery

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FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Front (4.25 x 6”)

THE DA E TE AV

S Hope Anchors

The Soul

CT MYSTIC,

Article and photos by Ryan Blessing

Saturday, April 18th, 2020 Mystic Yachting Center Mystic, CT

Catholic Charities Diocese of Norwich

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Catholic Charities embarks on its 99th anniversary of

Providing Help & Creating Hope

By Ed Tessman

For 99 years, Catholic Charities has continued to love the most vulnerable of every faith and background in Eastern Connecticut. That love remains the clearest evidence of God’s grace in our lives. After so many years, people certainly know Catholic Charities well enough that it may sometimes go unnoticed. Yet people are also surprised when they learn exactly how much Catholic Charities does for our communities.

Pope Francis has said, “It is not enough to offer someone a sandwich unless it is accompanied by the possibility of learning how to stand on one’s own two feet. Charity that leaves the poor person as he is, is not sufficient. True mercy, the mercy God gives to us and teaches us, demands justice, it demands that the poor find the way to be poor no longer.”

Catholic Charities has shifted away from the one-time crisis intervention programs to self-sustainability, by offering long-term wrap-around services. While Catholic Charities will always provide emergency assistance, food, and hope to those in crisis, this long-term approach will move people from crisis situations to sustainable

hope for the future. As we embark on our 99th anniversary year, we realize and understand the true power of hope and what it means to those who we serve. “Hope anchors the soul” Hebrews 6:19.

Last year, Catholic Charities served more than 60,000 residents throughout Eastern Connecticut, regardless of race, religion or national origin, through our four community-based offices.

Last year, Catholic Charities served more than 60,000 residents throughout Eastern Connecticut, regardless of race, religion or national origin, through our four community-based offices.

• 72% of our clients were female • 28% of our clients were male • 8% of our clients were under the age of 18 • 76% of our clients were non-Catholic • 83% of our clients had an annual income of less than $15,000 • 281 Thanksgiving baskets distributed to families in need • 167 families and 385 children helped through A Very Giving Christmas

Intensive Case Management served more than 5,181 households, providing more than 11,000 units of service to individuals and families in need. Individuals and families were helped with emergency basic needs, food, transportation assistance, rental, utility, fuel and prescription assistance, budgeting and financial skills education, job readiness, obtaining and maintaining employment, parenting education, pregnancy education and support, adoption searches, and through immigration education.

Through the Emergency Basic Needs component of our Intensive Case Management Program, we disbursed more than $175,880 of direct relief to those in need.

Our three licensed outpatient clinics served 611 clients and provided more than 6,560 units of direct service through our Behavioral Health and Clinical Services program and provided for more than $238,800 of charitable care. Clinical services were provided to people of all ages and situations to address trauma, depression, anxiety, domestic violence, sexual abuse, grief, behavioral problems and substance abuse to abusers and family members. These psychiatric, group, family and individual services included therapeutic interventions designed to meet a variety of family needs to improve the well-being of family members, reducing risks of crisis, abuse and neglect, with the goal of keeping families together.

Our Diocese

C

atholic Charities is observing its 99th anniversary of Providing Help and Creating Hope to those most in need throughout Eastern Connecticut. Our rich history of ministering to people of all faiths during their time of crisis is the foundation of our daily work.

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FEBRUARY

Calendar of Events:

March 4 & 6 Lenten Missions:

Lent through the Parable of the Prodigal Son

Come to experience Lent in a new way. Presented by Deacon Benedict LoCasto.

Journey to look at Lent through the eyes of the Lost Son, the jealous older brother, and the Merciful Father, in the Gospel of St. Luke. There is no cost to attend this Mission. Wednesday March 4th 7–8pm St. Mary’s Church of the Visitation, Clinton. Friday March 6th 7-8pm at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Middletown.

At the time of death, the Church confidently proclaims God has created us for eternal life.

“Through the saving death of Your Son, Jesus Christ, we rise at your word to the glory of the Resurrection.”

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

(PREFACE - CHRISTIAN DEATH IV)

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ST. MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY

Community Mausoleum Available 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich • 860-887-1019

SACRED HEART CEMETERY

Harland Road, Taftville • 860-887-1019

ST. PATRICK CEMETERY

Depot Road, Uncasville • 860-887-1019

ST. MARY CEMETERY

Community Mausoleum Available 600 Jefferson Ave, New London • 860-443-3465

RESURRECTION CEMETERY

Route 145, Westbrook • 860-443-3465

SACRED HEART CEMETERY

Wauregan Road, Wauregan • 860-887-1019

ALL HALLOWS CEMETERY

Green Hallow Road, Moosup • 860-887-1019

Norwich Diocesan Cemetery Corporation 815 Boswell Ave, Norwich CT 06360 860-887-1019

Saturday February 22 Saving Persecuted Christians

The Rockville Knights of Columbus is sponsoring a fundraiser dinner for persecuted Christians in Iraq. Tickets are $20, including dinner and a speaker at the St. Bernard church parish hall. Please mail your check to Knights of Columbus, c/o St. Bernard Church, 25 St. Bernard Terrace, Rockville, CT 06066. Please mark memo section dinner, or donation. For more information please email Michael at aiezzamichael@gmail.com. (snow date Feb. 29)

Sunday-Monday, March 8 & 9 Lenten Mission

Join ValLimar Jansen for a two-night Lenten Mission with the theme Unplug.

Both evenings will be focused on our call, role and mission as followers of Christ. Ms. Jansen uses song, dramatization and reflection to engage the audience.

Presentations will be held at St. John Church, Cromwell, from 7:00-8:30pm.

Refreshments will follow as well as the opportunity to speak directly with ValLimar. Admission is FREE.

Wednesday, March 18 Parish Mission:

The Real Presence of Christ in The Eucharist

Come to hear what Catholics believe about the Eucharist (Holy Communion), and why we believe it. Presented by Deacon Benedict LoCasto 7-8 pm at the Church of the Holy Family, Hebron. Admission is Free.

Saturday, March 21 Discover Mercy

A morning program offered for girls and their parents to get their first look at Mercy High School by enjoying activities, student performances and informal conservations with Mercy students, parents, administrators and faculty. For 5th, 6th & 7th grade girls. From 9am-1pm. Mercy High School,1740 Randolph Rd. Middletown.

Saturday, March 21 Into the Deep – Lenten Retreat

Join Dan Burke from EWTN for an Into the Deep Lenten mini retreat to discover the depths of prayer. All are welcome at St. Francis Catholic Church, New Britain, from 9-1pm. Mass will begin at 8am with registration at 8:30am. Register at Avila-Institute.org/events for the early bird special! Register after March 1, 2020 and the cost is $25 per ticket or $30 at the door.

Pope Francis @Pontifex The measure with which you measure will be measured out to you." (Mk 4:24). Let us ask the Lord for the grace to not fear the cross, let us ask for the capacity to feel humiliated, because this is the path He has chosen for us to be saved.

Every month, as the editor of the Four County Catholic, I receive the occasional email, letter or phone call commenting on the content. However, for as long as I have been with the Four County Catholic, no issue has garnered the number of positive responses and comments as the January issue. Below is an excerpt from an email I received. It captures the overall tone of all the reader feedback.

The most recent edition of the Four County Catholic gave me hope.

Let me explain.

In it, Bishop Cote encouraged us to have hope. He also asked us to share in the blessings of the Eucharist by spending time in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament. He reminded us that is where we feel the strength, support, warmth and the love of Christ.

I also came across a beautiful prayer of adoration by St. Teresa of Calcutta and on the next page a list of adoration chapels in our diocese and their hours of adoration.

I saw our diocesan vocations page, which should give us all hope, that same hope the bishop reminded us about. On the vocations page were pictures of our nine seminarians. There are many dioceses that would love to have nine seminarians. We are blessed. It is a hopeful sign.

Go to one of our six perpetual or daily adoration chapels. Commit to one hour a week praying for our children and grandchildren, our priests, and for vocations. Let it also be a time to thank our Lord for our families, for our priests and for our country. As our bishop recently said, “Share in the blessings of the Eucharist by spending time in adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.”

I thank God for our readers. Please don’t hesitate to let me know how we are doing. If something moves you, please drop me a note at editorial@NorwichDiocese.net.

Wayne

“…I come that you may have Life and have it to the Fullest!”

(John 10:10) Types of Healing: Spiritual (sin) Emotional (excessive anger, rage, etc.)

Psychological (trauma, accidents, etc.)

Deliverance, and Physical (bodily) Television Mass Wednesday, February 5 at 10am.

Channel 20 WTTX Charter Channel 11 WCCT Comcast Masses of Healing and Hope 2nd & 4th Monday at 2pm.

February 10 & 24 March 9 & 23 Spiritual Renewal Center Day of Recollection for Priest and Seminarians Friday, February 14 Holy Apostles Seminary and College 33 Prospect Hill Rd, Cromwell Weekly Prayer Meeting Tuesday at 2pm Spiritual Renewal Center Individual prayer and anointing Monthly Mass and Healing Service Sunday, February 23 St. Thomas The Apostle Chapel 872 Farmington Ave, West Hartford Mass 1-2pm, Healing service continues Prayer teams, individual prayer and anointing

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Our Diocese

Reader Reactions

15

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

St. Michael's Reopens,

C

Photo by Dan Hyland

This ‘house of the Lord’ closed its doors in 2012 and then underwent a multimillion-dollar demolition and rebuild. Much of the work culminated January 18 in the Mass of Dedication, the celebration of its re-opening.

As the church bells rang, the procession, which included the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, and the Very Reverend Dennis M. Perkins, longtime pastor of St. Michael, stopped at the closed double doors of the dark, empty church. Deacon Michael Bovino carried relics that later were placed within the altar.

A waiting crowd gathered on 16 Liberty Street, which was closed to

Photo by Dan Hyland

He went on to commend Father The Second Reading, Ephesians Perkins for his vision, deep 2:19-22, reminded all that Jesus knowledge of church history is the capstone of the “household and art, and love of beauty and of God,” and “Through Him the sacredness. whole structure is held together “He has orchestrated not just a and grows into a temple sacred in reconstruction, but what will prove the Lord; in Him you also are being to be a gem in our diocese for many The bishop in turn handed the keys built together into a dwelling place years to come,” he said.

The new church is built upon to Father Perkins, who opened the of God in the Spirit.” doors allowing the hundreds of Bishop Cote welcomed the Most the original 1860s foundation of waiting parishioners into the new Reverend Paul Loverde, Bishop Westerly granite.

Emeritus of the Diocese of “While we consecrate a new church building for the first time.

Attendees gazed upward in awe of Arlington, and the Most Reverend today, we already stand on holy the large wooden trusses traversing Robert Evans, Auxiliary Bishop ground,” Bishop Cote said. “On the ceiling and marveled at the of the Diocese Providence. Bishop this very spot for over 150 years, altar of polished marble and carved Loverde is a native son of St. the faithful encountered God here.”

Michael parish, while Bishop stations of the cross.

Evans was assigned as a new priest The church pays homage to its Once all were inside, the bishop to nearby St. Pius X Church in past, incorporating old and new elements of it such as the stainedblessed water which he then Westerly. glass windows and stations of sprinkled on the walls and altar, as Once he is ordained, Deacon Bovino the cross. It also recovered lost well as all in attendance. will become the 19th priest the St. elements, such as the front stained“That sprinkled on us, and on the Michael Church has elevated. glass windows and the interior and walls of this church, it may be a sign of the cleansing waters of “It’s quite outstanding that one exterior colors. salvation,” he said. “In which we community has produced so many The Mass continued with a prayer of dedication and the Litany of the have been washed in Christ and priests,” the bishop said.

traffic in front of the church while hanting “Let us go rejoicing the ceremony took place. Guido to the house of the Lord,” Petra, owner of Petra Construction a procession made its way Corporation, handed the keys to the up Liberty Street in Pawcatuck to church doors over to Bishop Cote. open Saint Michael the Archangel “Enter the gates of the Lord with Church for the first time in almost thanksgiving,” Bishop Cote said.

“His courts with songs of praise.” eight years.

By Ryan Blessing

Photo by Meredith Vernott made a temple of your spirit.”

Faithful Return Home

Photo by Tim Martin Photo by Dan Hyland

Photo by Meredith Vernott be back.

“This is home,” she said.

“St. Mary’s was wonderful, and they welcomed us. But this was always home.”

Many stayed after Mass to admire the work and explore the church.

Michael’s closed, we were warmly welcomed by Monsignor LaRocque at Saint Mary. May we always remember their generosity and kindness in such a way, too, that all who pass through these doors seeking shelter and a home in the presence of God may find a warm to everyone involved in the and generous home here.” rebuilding of the church, from the bishop, fellow priests and his family, to the construction crews.

note, with a performance of “O God Beyond All Praising,” which was the final hymn sung at the April 22, 2012 Mass the day St. Michael closed.

“You know what it is to be without Longtime parishioners like a home,” he told the parishioners.

Marianne Risica Leonard, who “You also know what it is to be The altar was then covered with grew up in the parish, were in awe warmly welcomed into another’s a cloth and illuminated with of the rebuilt church, and happy to home. Eight years ago, when St. The bishop then took part in the anointing of the altar and the walls of the church with Sacred Chrism. This was followed by the incensation, or spreading of incense, on the altar and throughout the church.

Photo by Tim Martin

To view the entire photo gallery please visit

Our Diocese

“I’m so happy to be back,” Dottie Carrier, a sacristan, said. She called the altar “absolutely beautiful,” and noted the carved lamb and seven crosses Photo by Meredith Vernott Saints, and then the bishop placed candles before the powered lights on its front, representing the seven the relics of St. Sebastian and St. throughout the church came on for seals of Revelation.

“I think that’s great,” she said.

Martial in the altar stone, which the Liturgy of the Eucharist. was then sealed.

The Mass concluded on a fitting Father Perkins expressed gratitude

NorwichDiocese.org 17

MARCH for LIFE Stirs Hopes of Norwich Diocese Faithful

By Matt McDonald

A FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

s the first U.S. president to attend the March for Life stepped to the microphone, some eastern Connecticut residents could hardly believe it.

18

Lisa Duda, who started attending the march in 2001, and who this year organized two buses from the Diocese of Norwich, witnessed a surge of emotion.

“They were cheering and crying.

It was such a relief. I never thought I’d live to see this day,” Duda said in an interview for The Four County Catholic.

“Because in 2001, we were feeling like David and Goliath. It seemed like all was lost. But when Trump started saying all these things, we felt renewed hope and trust in God. We’re hoping next year it’ll be a victory march.”

Crowds are notoriously hard to count, but this year was so vast that it clogged the security checkpoint on the National Mall near 14th Street. Participants could be seen as far back as the Washington Monument. While there was little room to maneuver, just about everyone seemed cheerful – first in anticipation, and then in deliverance.

As expected, President Donald Trump got a t h u n d e r o u s reception.

The White House is only a little more than a half-mile away from the March for Life rally microphone, but previous presidents have found it a stage too far. Several have been hostile or indifferent to the cause, and the others have decided it was too risky politically to be captured on camera at the event.

Trump changed everything Friday, January 24th.

“It is my profound honor to be the first president in history to attend the March for Life,” Trump began, to a roar from the crowd. “We’re here for a very simple reason: to defend the right of every child, born and unborn, to fulfill their God-given potential. For 47 years Americans of all backgrounds John and Karoline Duda, with their daughter Felicity, 1. have travelled across the country to stand for life, and today, as contingent numbered 108. It The Dudas, who are parishioners president of the United States I am included students from the of St. Mary of the Immaculate truly proud to stand with you.”

University of Connecticut and Conception in Baltic, are eager The Diocese of Norwich from the Academy of the Holy to increase numbers next year, but cost is a problem. “We have Family in Baltic.

people who would love to go two groups together for the but can’t pay, and people that greater glory of God," said would pay but can’t go, and John Duda. we would love to bring these

Our Diocese

U.S. President Donald Trump addresses thousands of pro-life supporters during the 47th annual March for Life in Washington Jan. 24, 2020. He is the first sitting president to address the pro-life event in person.

(CNS photo/Leah Millis, Reuters)

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The Diocese of Norwich Marches for Life

Xavier Student Reflections

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

By Father Brian Maxwell

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P

eople of all ages from our Diocese trekked the 400 miles to Washington D.C. to join in supporting the voiceless, the most vulnerable, the innocent unborn children of God in their mothers wombs. The March for Life peacefully expresses our enthusiastic and loving witness to person. It’s one of the largest marches, by people of all faiths, for social justice in America!

This year’s theme was “Life Empowers: ProLife is Pro-Woman.”

Citing our year 2020, marking the 100th anniversary of the 19th Amendment, giving women the right to vote, Jeanne Mancini, MC for the Rally at the National Mall, pointed out that half of all the babies in the tragedy of abortion are women, and that there are two victims, both the mom and her infant.

Therefore, Pro-Life IS ProWoman.

Twenty students from the Academy of the Holy Family in Baltic, Students for Life from UCONN, parish youth groups and parishioners from St. Mary’s in Baltic and various other parishes throughout our Diocese attended.

Twenty-two students and teachers from St. Bernard School joined groups from all over the country for a night of praise, worship and prayer at the Diocese of Arlington’s ‘Life is Very Good Rally’ the night before the march.

For them, this was great preparation for taking to the streets the next day to proclaim the Gospel of Life with thousands of fellow students.

Xavier High School in Middletown sent 48 students and chaperones and following Mass at the Basilica of the Immaculate Conception, visited the St. John Paul II Museum, before heading over to the National Mall to hear President Trump’s pro-life address.

It was the first time a U.S. president attended the March for Life in person. “This peaceful protest was the most exciting and passionate gathering I’ve ever attended, and I highly recommend going to it!” student Joe O’Brien said.

Mother Mary Jude Lazarus, S.C.M.C., Director of our diocese’s Hispanic Ministry, led a group of 17 marchers.

Many thanks to various Knights of Columbus Councils from around the state who generously helped our young people to attend the March for Life.

Joe Marcin (middle): “Nobody at the March for Life is marching for themselves.

No one is demanding rights or benefits for themselves. They are simply marching for those that cannot. If nothing else, this at least reveals where our hearts are at."

Aidan Lynch (2nd from left): “Seeing thousands of people coming together to promote the sanctity of life, and push for an end to abortion is beautiful.

It puts a sense of hope into all pro-lifers that one day Roe v.

Wade will be overturned.”

Chris Delgado (2nd from far right): “Witnessing the March grow and seeing it evolve for the 12 years I have marched has been special. Seeing all these people fighting against abortion should be a sign to all people of the dignity of life and the importance that life holds from the moment of conception to natural death.”

Michael Stottlemyer (far left): “I think the biggest problem with this fight is ignorance I don’t understand how someone can stand for something that is clearly wrong.”

Rohit Menon (far right): “The March is a great community of likeminded people.

It’s so peaceful even with thousands of people occupying a small place.”

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Our Diocese

Sacred Heart School, Groton

Sacred Heart School, Taftville

Gail Kingston, Principal

50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton, CT 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org/school

Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville, CT

Phone: 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org

St. Edward School, Stafford Springs St. James School, Danielson

Mrs. Pelletier, Principal LindaMaryAnne Marie Joyal, Principal 120 WaterSt, St,Stafford Danielson, CT CT 25 Church Springs, Phone: Phone: 860-774-3281 860-684-2600 www.stjamesdanielson.org www.stedward-stafford.org

St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale David Sizemore, Principal

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

Academic Excellence. Character. Self-Confidence.

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Bishop Cote visits St. Michael School

22

Bishop Cote visited with Mrs. Bergel's second grade class on his annual visit to Saint Michael School in Pawcatuck. The students enjoyed their one-on-one time with Bishop, asking such questions as "Did you go to a Catholic school?" and "What is it like to be a Bishop?"

St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic Ian M. Holland, Principal 35 Valley St, Willimantic, CT Phone: 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich

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

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

Mrs. Doris Messina, Principal

Sharon Stewart , Principal

Academy of the Holy Fa

St. John School, Old Saybrook Mother Mary David, SCMC Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal 54 West Main St, Baltic, 42 Maynard Road, Old Saybrook, CTPhone: 860-822-9272 Phone: 860-388-0849 www.ahfbaltic.org www.saintjohnschoolos.org

C, Principal CT

Mr. Lawrence Fitzgerald, Principal 87 South Main St, Middletown, CT Phone: 860-347-2978 www.jpii.org

St. Joseph School, Baltic

Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal

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

St. Joseph School, New London Ms. Marianne Cote, Principal 25 Squire St, New London, CT Phone: 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com

St. Bernard School, Uncasville

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

“A Holy Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 76 Years of Excellence in Catholic Education ~ Grades K-8 ~

Full Day Kindergarten School Day from 8:30-2:30 After School Care Available Accredited by the New England Association of Schools & Colleges

25 Squire Street New London, CT For information call 860-442-1720 sjsscty@ct.metrocast.net www.sjsnl.com

Superintendent's Office My Dear Friends, Last November, Father Robert Spitzer (of EWTN fame) made a presentation at the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) regarding a new supplemental module series for youth confirmation entitled 7 Essentials. This module was designed to supplement, not replace, existing confirmation curricula.

7 Essentials focuses mainly on the issues which cause an increasing number of young people to abandon religion. National surveys from the Pew Research Center in Washington, D.C. have shown that religion is on an incredible decline, especially with our youth. The most recent data shows 40% of young people aged 18-29 chose “none” as their religious affiliation. This is up from 23% in 2006, and if this rate continues, the projections will climb 50% in the next five to 10 years if left unabated.

For this reason, Andrea Hoisl, the director of faith events for our diocese and I have contacted Father Spitzer’s regional director for the northeastern U.S. to present Father Spitzer’s modules to our PK-Grade 8 teachers/administrators, our high school campus ministers, and the directors of religious education next month. The modules have even been modified for our middle school teachers, and we were told that they would be useful for our elementary and early childhood teachers to create awareness and instill the lessons in our younger grades in a more digestible manner.

The research showed that this mass exodus of our youth from religion is being driven by secular myths that misstate or misrepresent the facts. The myths basically indicate that science has proven that God doesn’t exist; humans are merely a conglomeration of atoms with no souls; suffering proves that there is no God; and that Jesus was human, but not divine.

Father Spitzer, in his modules, counteracts every one of these myths and so wonderfully argues that science has proven that God exists. He has even debated the late Stephen Hawking on this subject on national television in 2010. His modules cover evidence of a soul from medical studies; God’s existence from science and philosophy; and Jesus’ resurrection and divinity. They also answer the questions regarding why one should be Catholic and why an all-loving God would “allow” suffering.

Mrs. Hoisl and I are firm believers in being proactive vs. reactive, and are working together to not only keep our students interested in the faith, but to also nurture the desire to be lifelong learners of our faith in an effort to counteract what is happening across the country. As Saint Paul tells us, “Therefore, since we have been justified through faith, we have peace with God through our Lord Jesus Christ.” (Romans 5:1) May we all work together to plant the seeds of faith in our youth and nurture that faith always.

God Bless!

Henry Fiore, Jr.

Superintendent of Schools

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

Mercy High School, Middletown

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

www.mercyhigh.com

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

www.xavierhighschool.org

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

OUR YOUTH

amily, Baltic

St. John Paul II School, Middletown

www.norwichdso.org

23

Excellent Essayists

T

he Knights of Columbus Spellman Council 6107 from St. Andrews Church in Colchester congratulate the participants in the Council’s recent Catholic Citizenship Essay Contest. The topic of this year’s contest was on the “Theological Virtues of Charity”.

Participants from Grades 8 through 12 were invited to participate in the event. The winners for this year’s Essay Contest were recognized at the K of C Council meeting glish 16th. This year’s winners held onEn January were all from Sacred Heart Middle School in Groton.

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Pictured from left to right are Dan Leone, Essay Contest Chairman, Mrs. Susanne Yalcin, Religious Ed. Teacher, Claire Fenaughty, Second Place, Maddlyn Tomaszewski, Third Place, Yailanis Gutierrez, Second Place (Tie), Eamonn Pelletier, First Place, Bob Norris, Grand Knight and Dr. Kingston, Principal of Sacred Heart Middle School.

PLEASE HELP

“We love our neighbor as being made in the image of God and as an object of His love.”

- Saint Vincent de Paul

Donations are welcomed and always needed!

St. Vincent de Paul Middletown

860-344-0097 • www.svdmiddletown.org

St.Vincent de Paul Place Norwich 24

860-889-7374 • www.svdpp.org

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JANUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

860-537-0079

392 South Main Street, Colchester

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St. Joseph School Offers More Clubs, Sports

By FCC News Desk

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

O

ver the past two years, St. Joseph School (SJS) in North Grosvenordale has increased its offerings to students in interscholastic athletics and extracurricular activities. The expansion of these activities stemmed from

a summer meeting in late July 2018 when a group of parents brainstormed ways to improve the student experience at SJS. The SJS athletic program, led by athletic director and parent

An Education You Can Believe In.

Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community.

Embracing Service. Living Faith.

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

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

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

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volunteer Lindsay Lehmann, consists of multiple sports in which student-athletes participate. The interscholastic offerings are in soccer (fall season) and basketball (winter season). Both sports are co-ed, and for all ages. SJS offers a running club in the fall and a golf club in the spring, which is taught by professionals at the Woodstock Golf Club.

“At SJS, our athletic programs are crucial to the development of the whole student,” Lehmann said.

“Together, our male and female athletes work cooperatively as they train toward the same goal; to represent their school the best they can. Win or lose, our SJS Falcons have the biggest hearts and play every game until the final buzzer or whistle.”

SJS has increased its number of after school clubs to seven, five more than only two years ago, with an eighth club, a new Chinese Club, to begin in early February.

“There are a number of parents as well as faculty/staff members who volunteer their time after school to enhance the student experience at SJS,” Sizemore

said. “Whether it's having 25 youngsters playing with Legos or knitting scarves for those in need, there is a club for everybody."

To find out more information on what SJS can offer, contact the school for more information at (860) 923-2090.

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FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

Xavier Students Shine in Yale Model Congress

By Jeff Otterbein

X

avier students Benjamin Pitruzzello ’22, Jordan Hetu ’21, Daniel Lyons ’21 and Cole Sierpinski ’21 recently won awards for individual pieces of legislation they wrote and presented in their committees at the Yale Model Congress.

Pitruzzello also won an award at the Yale Model Congress last year.

“This is the largest number of awards our Model Congress team has taken home from a conference in living memory, and I was very proud of how well our students represented the school,” Xavier teacher and Model Congress moderator Jim Royce said.

Pitruzzello got the inspiration to explore the issue after reading an article in the New York Times.

The title of Pitruzzello’s bill was “An Act to Transfer Cases of Military Sexual Misconduct to Civilian Courts.” Part of the preamble read, “Many people don’t speak out against people who commit these crimes. They are afraid of repercussions and 28 being outcasts in a place they

L-R Cole Sierpinski, Benjamin Pitruzzello, Daniel Lyons and Jordan Hetu and its preamble cited various statistics to show that bullying is widespread in schools. It called for anti-bullying curriculum added to health classes in public elementary, middle and high schools. It also spoke of learning about the various types of Sierpinski’s bill was called “An bullying, such as “verbal, physical Act to Guard Against Deep Fake and cyber-bullying.”

Technology.” Part of the preamble read: “Whereas if this technology Hetu’s bill was called “An gets in the wrong hands of Act to Save Kurdish People,” nefarious actors, it could have its preamble in part reading, catastrophic results on national “Whereas the Kurds have been security and other leading figures among the most persecuted in our nation.” The bill called for a groups in the Middle East of the new task force under the National past several decades. Whereas the Security Agency to detect and Kurdish have consistently fought combat deep fakes on the internet, for American interests overseas only taking action if “the content and have been just as consistently is believed to pose a direct threat betrayed by our hand.” The bill to national security.” called for a joint task force to be sent to northern Syria to ensure Sierpinski wanted to explore how the protection of civilian Kurds. to fight against this new problem of people purposely altering Hetu said, "One of the most images and video to deceive valuable parts of being in Model others. He said Model Congress Congress is the ability to develop has exposed him to many things public speaking skills." He now that he otherwise would not have feels confident in that regard and See the latest list of retreats on experienced. has also made new friends along the way.

NorwichDiocese.org The bill by Lyons was “An Act to Stop School Bullying,” called home.” The bill called for taking away the power of the military to try its own and place that responsibility in the hands of the “nearest district attorney or other proper law enforcement officials.”

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Fai th Sparks

Making Lent a Season to Welcome and Not Dread

By Liza Roach

FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

T

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he Lenten season in the Catholic Church is a time when we focus on fasting, sacrifice and prayer. The truth is that most people don’t look forward to doing so for 40 days. Giving up candy, screen time or your favorite celebratory beverage is really not something we ever desire or feel motivated to do. Yet, as Catholics, we have been taught that Lent calls us to focus on all of this. The question becomes, how can we make fasting, sacrifice and prayer more meaningful this Lent? How do we share this Lenten journey as a family?

When I was a child, my family would sit down together before Lent and talk about what we would do to make the season meaningful for each of us and why it was important to do so. One thing I always looked forward to planning together were our fasting Friday family meals.

They were simple, kid-friendly meals like pancakes or pizza, but we all participated in preparing either the menu or the meals. We lived in a bay community in Rhode Island, and there were several Fridays when we would go clam digging at low tide and come home, cook the clams and eat pasta with clam sauce. Or, we would go out and catch our own fish or mussels.

Even though my brother and I were under the required age for fasting, my parents insisted that we do so. They wanted to give us an understanding that by eating simple, low-cost meals, many which we harvested ourselves, we were doing so in solidarity with the poor. It taught us to appreciate the gifts we had rather than take them for granted. These meals were more than just warm family memories for me. They instilled in me the practice of fasting and sacrifice while helping

me see Lent as a season to celebrate special activities with my family rather than something to dread.

With each Lent came the decision for me to give up ice cream and candy and a lesson from my parents about what that sacrifice meant. They taught me that we do this to remain grounded by our faith and to recall where our redemption comes from: Jesus. We remember what Jesus sacrificed to ensure our salvation.

Our sacrifices during Lent are outward signs of appreciation for all that Christ has done and continues to do for all of us.

This year make Lent more meaningful by planning some special events with your family.

There are some wonderful planning aids which will help you and your family choose experiences that will make penance, sacrifice and prayer a “hands on” activity for everyone.

There are also calendars that will help you and your family make the most out of Lent by providing dayby-day activities. These activities include ways to help others, challenge you to sacrifice, entice you to pray and so much more.

Once you find activities that are meaningful for your family, they can become Lenten traditions that you can continue from year to year. My parents role-modeled for me positive Lenten traditions that I have carried throughout my life.

Their faith was reinforced by their actions and helped me to see Lent in a different way and, ultimately enriched my faith journey.

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks.

There you will find helpful websites on Lenten activities

Ignite Your Faith.

Stewardship Project Benefits Refugees

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Walkabout Wednesdays For Parents 8:15–10:00 am Our Walkabout Wednesday program gives parents the chance to visit the campus during a normal school day. This is a unique opportunity to experience firsthand what Saint Bernard School can offer your son or daughter.

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By Cynde Yaconiello

T

he third through sixth grade faith formation students at St. Matthew Church completed a stewardship project that benefits refugees and immigrants that are being helped

by Sr. Mary Jude from the parish of Sagrado Corazon de Jesus in Windham and the organization IRIS (Integrated Refugee & Immigrant Services) from New Haven.

toothbrushes, shampoo, soap, deodorant, dish soap, notebooks, pens, winter beanies and winter gloves), the students were able to put together 121 two- gallon zip lock baggies filled with essential items for the refugees and immigrants. They also included a welcome card in each bag.

I am extremely thankful for all of the donations; and I am so proud of our third through sixth grade Because of the amazing amount students for all their hard work to of donations (toothpaste, make this Advent project possible!

LENTEN MEALS Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry Fish Fry 4:30-6:30pm $15 per person

St. John Church, Middletown Soup dinners 6-7pm March 20, 27 & April 3 Free

St. Luke Church, Ellington Soup/Sandwich 5:15-6:30pm $6 per person

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Saint Bernard School is a place for your child to learn, grow and discover!

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FEBRUARY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org

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