Four County Catholic June/July 2020

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

Congratulations

Volume 32 • Number 6 • JUNE/JULY 2020 SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

For surely I know the plans I have for you, says the Lord, plans for your welfare and not for harm, to give you a future with hope.

Jeremiah 29:11

Class of

2020

A Message from Bishop Michael R. Cote

Made Possible in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal

­ESTABLISHED IN 1989 AND PUBLISHED EACH MONTH EXCEPT JULY. PUBLISHER

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

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

I have used that salutation in hundreds of letters, columns, and homilies throughout my 45 years of ministry as a priest and bishop. They remind us that as Christians we share a common kinship in the Lord Jesus; that we are created and loved equally, without distinction.

The tragic events of the last few weeks have shone a light on a problem that has never been fully eradicated: the sin of racism. As Catholics we share a long history of standing up for oppressed people everywhere. It is an essential part of who we are.

EDITORIAL OFFICE

25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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As we march together with this common goal, may the words of Saint Paul to the Galatians help remind us of whose we truly are – “… through faith you are all children of God in Christ Jesus. For all of you who were baptized into Christ have clothed yourselves with Christ. There is neither Jew nor Greek, there is neither slave nor free person, there is not male and female; for you are all one in Christ Jesus.”

Wayne Gignac, 860.886.1281

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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.

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

Four County Catholic Issue 6, June/July (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.

Yours in the loving heart of Christ,

Discover more at

NorwichDiocese.org

Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich

© Copyright 2020, Diocese of Norwich. All rights reserved.

No content may be reproduced without expressed consent.

Periodical Postage paid at Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional offices.

Podemos ayudar

We Can Help To report inappropriate conduct of any kind by a Diocesan Bishop please contact ReportBishopAbuse.org or call 1-800-276-1562 To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance for victims, please call: The Diocesan Reporting Line @ 1-800-624-7407 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

Fax 860.859.1253

DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

Dr. Martin Luther King, Jr. once said, “the time is always right to do what is right.” We are each called to transform our hearts; to raise our consciousness; to put into action what it means to “love one another” as the Lord Jesus commands us. Addressing the scourge of racism is, essentially, a pro-life issue. As Pope Francis recently stated, “We cannot tolerate or turn a blind eye to racism and exclusion in any form and yet claim to defend the sacredness of every human life.”

As a beginning, I ask you to join me in praying for the unity of our country. I then ask that you invite the Holy Spirit to open your eyes to see what each of us can do to help.

860.887.9294

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

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 una conducta inapropiada de cualquier tipo por parte de un obispo diocesano, por favor contacte ReportBishopAbuse.org o llame al 1-800-276-1562 Para reportar contacto inapropiado de cualquier tipo por medio de un representante de la Diócesis de Norwich o para asistencia a víctimas, por favor llame a La Línea de Reportaje de la Diócesis de Norwich 1-800-624-7407 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

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, In recent weeks we have all experienced life in a way far different than most of us could have imagined.

Most of Lent, Holy Week, the Easter Season, the Ascension of our Lord, and Pentecost were spent physically absent from each other and our parish families. I am greatly inspired by the various ways our church communities have found to remain connected to each other.

Springtime is traditionally the season for celebrations. The pandemic has affected how and when we celebrate. Religious milestones in the sacramental life of our church – First Holy Communion and Confirmation – were postponed. Marriages and Graduations, if not postponed, were celebrated in a different way.

Mourning the loss of these highly anticipated events is natural. Our expectations can truly be a burden.

I am reminded of Saint Ignatius’ counsel, “We should not fix our

desires on health or sickness, wealth or poverty, success or failure, a long life or a short one.” This radical concept of detachment leads one into an interior freedom. Simply put, our goal is the freedom to choose to follow the will of God, no matter what the circumstances.

We have the opportunity to embrace this moment in history and make it a time to cherish. I encourage you to continue to be creative; making memories that your children, someday, will look back upon fondly.

We now find ourselves back in Ordinary time, liturgically speaking.

Ordinary time refers to those periods that fall outside of the major seasons of Advent, Christmas, Lent and Easter.

The etymology of the word “ordinary” comes from the Latin word “ordo” which means ‘numbers in a series’, referring to the numbered weeks of ordinary time.

Ordinary time is far from ordinary.

This year especially, because it is during Ordinary time, that our slow,

phased approach to public worship will begin.

The 33 weeks of ordinary time contain the remaining occurrences of Jesus’s earthly ministry and some of the major events in His life. In the readings of Ordinary time we discover the parables, the calling of the first disciples, the Beatitudes, and of course the miracles. It is in Ordinary time that the blind see and the deaf hear.

accomplishments, I extend my congratulations to our eighth grade, high school, and college graduates.

I pray, as I am sure all of you do, for their success in all future endeavors.

The pandemic has compelled us to recognize how little we have under our control. Once we accept that realization, we may finally be able to, as Saint Paul informs us, “discern what is the Will of God . . .”

Ordinary time IS a time to celebrate.

One such celebration for the entire Diocese will be the Ordination of Deacon Michael Bovino, Saturday, June 27, 2020. This event will be Livestreamed from the Cathedral, allowing every person in every corner of our Diocese to witness this blessed moment, not only for Deacon Bovino but for our entire Diocesan family of faith.

I pray that you continue to stay safe and join me in praying that those suffering with COVID-19, those caring for them, and their family members, are given the strength to overcome this terrible disease.

I would also like to acknowledge the Class of 2020. Their perseverance has carried them through a challenging time. Celebrating their

Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich

Sincerely yours in the healing power of Christ,

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Discerning the Will of God

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THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Discernir la Voluntad de Dios

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Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, Todos hemos experimentado en las ύltimas semanas la vida de una manera muy diferente de lo que la mayoría de nosotros podría haber imaginado.

La mayor parte de la Cuaresma, la Semana Santa, el Tiempo Pascual, la Ascensión de nuestro Señor y Pentecostés lo pasamos físicamente ausentes los unos de los otros y de nuestras familias parroquiales. Me inspira mucho las diversas maneras en que nuestras comunidades eclesiásticas han encontrado estar conectadas entre sí.

La primavera tradicionalmente es una temporada de celebraciones.

La pandemia ha afectado cómo y cuándo celebramos. Ha sido un evento historico religioso en la vida sacramental de nuestra iglesia –la Primera Comunión y la Confirmación – fueron aplazadas Los matrimonios y las graduaciones, si no se aplazaron, se celebraron de una manera diferente.

Lamentar la pérdida de estos eventos tan esperados es natural. Nuestras expectativas pueden ser realmente una carga. Me recuerda el consejo de San

Ignacio: "No debemos fijar nuestros deseos en la salud o la enfermedad, la riqueza o la pobreza, el éxito o el fracaso, una larga vida o una corta".

Este concepto radical de desapego lleva a uno a una libertad interior. En pocas palabras, nuestro objetivo es la libertad de elegir seguir la voluntad de Dios, sin importar las circunstancias.

Tenemos la oportunidad de abrazar este momento de la historia y convertirlo en un momento para apreciar. Les animo a seguir siendo creativos; haciendo recuerdos que sus hijos, algún día, mirarán hacia atrás con cariño.

Litύrgicamente hablando, ahora nos encontramos en el tiempos ordinario.

El tiempo ordinario se refiere a aquellos períodos que quedan fuera de las estaciones principales de Adviento, Navidad, Cuaresma y Pascua. La etimología de la palabra "ordinario" proviene de la palabra latina "ordo" que significa "números en una serie", refiriéndose a las semanas numeradas del tiempo ordinario.

El tiempo ordinario está lejos de ser ordinario. Especialmente este año, porque es durante el tiempo ordinario,

que nuestro enfoque lento y gradual de la adoración pública comenzará.

Las 33 semanas de tiempo ordinario contienen los acontecimientos restantes del ministerio de Jesús en la tierra y algunos de los acontecimientos más importantes de Su vida. En las lecturas del tiempo ordinario descubrimos las parábolas, el llamado a los primeros discípulos, las Bienaventuranzas y, por supuesto, los milagros. Es en el tiempo ordinario que los ciegos ven y los sordos oyen.

El tiempo ordinario es un momento para celebrar. Una de esas celebraciones para toda la Diócesis será la Ordenación del Diácono Michael Bovino, el sábado 27 de junio del 2020. Este evento será transmitido en directo desde la Catedral, permitiendo a cada persona en cada rincón de nuestra Diócesis presenciar este momento bendito, no sólo para el Diácono Bovino, sino para toda nuestra familia Diocesana de fe.

También me gustaría reconocer la Clase del 2020. Su perseverancia los ha llevado a través de un momento difícil. Celebrando sus logros, extiendo mis felicitaciones a nuestros

graduados de octavo grado, secundaria y universidad. Ruego, como estoy seguro de que todos ustedes lo hacen, por su éxito en todos los esfuerzos futuros.

La pandemia nos ha obligado a reconocer lo poco que tenemos bajo nuestro control. Una vez que aceptemos esa realización, por fin podremos, como nos dice San Pablo, "discernir cuál es la Voluntad de Dios...”

Ruego que continúen a salvo y se unan a mí para orar por los que los que sufren de COVID-19, aquellos que los cuidan y sus familiares, que se les de la fuerza para superar esta terrible enfermedad.

Sinceramente en el poder sanador de Cristo,

Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich

Vocations Corner

A Seminarian Reflection 4th Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD

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

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

I LOVE JESUS! These words bring me back to the moment I realized how much I love Jesus. It reminds me of a story Father Richard Ricard, pastor of my home parish, Blessed Sacrament in Rockville-Tolland, said in one of his homilies. There was a man who, in spite of a destructive house fire, risked his life for his collection of CDs about Jesus.

When asked why he risked his life, he answered with certainty, “Because I LOVE JESUS!” I am Dharen Brochero, Seminarian of the Diocese of Norwich. I am finishing my first year of theology at Mount Saint Mary Seminary. I am a native from Saint Sebastian, Colombia. I am 25 years old and am the second and last son from my parents’ marriage.

Thinking about my vocation is like the story of the selfless man and his love for Jesus. My vocation is the result of a fire. Not a house fire, but the overwhelming fire of the Holy Spirit in which I unwaveringly acknowledged, I LOVE JESUS! The prayers of my grandmother and the presence of great priests both helped me to hear the call.

I became an altar server at 14 because I thought my parish pastor was young and “cool.” I was also able to travel with him around the more than 20 villages even in uncomfortable times of flooding. I remember how despite the rising waters, the villagers would stand in water up to their knees, singing so joyfully to the Lord and grateful to us for being there.

One day my pastor, Father Romero, asked me about my future. I told him I wanted to be a medical doctor. He said,

Dharen Manuel Brochero Garavito 1st Theology, Mount Saint Mary Seminary “You have a calling to be a priest, which I have observed in our travels and missions to the villages.”

I told him, “I want to heal wounded and sick people,” and he replied, “You have all that is needed to heal peoples’ souls.” Later, that Holy Thursday, I considered the words of Father Freddy.

Moved by the Holy Spirit, I exclaimed: I LOVE JESUS! At that moment I had a feeling of deep joy in my heart. It was Jesus saying “yes” to me after I said I love Him. I graduated from high school in 2011 at the age of 16, and then took a year off to think about my vocation. Finally, through Father Romero’s guidance, I decided I wanted to be a missionary.

Father helped me find a good seminary school, where I started my formation to the priesthood in 2013.

Then, in 2015, a priest friend decided to challenge my vocation and offer me the opportunity to serve the Church in a more challenging area, America. I was

not sure, but he insisted this could be God’s will and I was fighting against Him like I did as a teenager.

I followed his advice and interviewed with Father Greg Galvin, Sister Jude, Father Robert “Bob” Washabaugh and Father Henry Agudelo. It was scary, but they gave me confidence through their wise questions. I came to America with (now) Father Castiblanco, studied English for two years in the Diocese, and lived at St. Bernard and St. Matthew Church, now Blessed Sacrament Parish, under the guidance of Father “Rick” Ricard. The Diocese has been my new “Colombia,” my home parish, my new home, and its parishioners, my new family. I moved to Maryland to finish my philosophical studies and graduated in 2019, earning a Bachelor of Arts degree. Then, I moved on to Theology in the same year and received candidacy in November.

Many people, some in Heaven, have shaped my vocation. I am very grateful to Father Rick, my pastor and mentor, as well as other great priestly figures like Father Antonelle, Father Lapointe, Father Bob, Father Oleisk, Father Ellis, deacons Ron and Michael Berstene, and my former summer pastors.

Father Greg, my vocation director, has been very warmhearted, and he always lifts up my spirit when I feel troubled.

He helps to keep me moving toward my priestly goal. Bishop Cote has shown me how valuable I am to God and to the Church. This is a great mission for me and being in the Diocese of Norwich makes me always say, even during times of trouble: I LOVE JESUS!

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

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

MONTHLY

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

Holy Hour for Vocations

LIVE STREAMED

JUNE 26, 7 pm CATHEDRAL OF ST. PATRICK, NORWICH JULY 16, 6 pm NOTRE DAME, DURHAM

www.God-Calls.com

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

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Deacon Michael Bovino

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Thankful for Support as Annual Catholic Appeal Continues During Pandemic

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Mary Ellen Mahoney, Executive Director of Development

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Our 2020 Annual Catholic Appeal theme, “One Faith, One Family,” is being lived by people far beyond the corners of our diocese. Only by working together, being concerned with the health and safety of others, have we been able to work to flatten the curve. It is this collective effort that is defeating COVID-19. While it is still far from over, we can take comfort that during this period, we have acted as one family, comprised of many religious denominations, we have all acted in the faith and belief that what we do today will impact the health and welfare of our brothers and sisters tomorrow.

I would like to take this opportunity to thank each of the donors who have given or pledged to this year’s ACA. We have currently received support from a little more than 9 percent of our base and together these parishioners have donated or pledged more than $1.3 million! As you know, we mailed out our first ACA solicitation at the beginning of March. This packet included a letter from Bishop Cote asking your support to our 2020 ACA, as well as a brochure and a pledge/gift envelope.

Many of you have mailed in your envelopes and others have gone online to our website and made your gift. While we wish we had been able to show our ACA video and conduct our in-pew collection the weekend of March 21-22, COVID-19 had other plans for us. Although we plan to schedule the showing of the

to find alternative ways to worship to possibly experiencing financial and health insecurity. On top of that, many of us face the added challenge of schooling our children and caring for our “at risk” family and friends. In light of all of these stressors, it is truly heartwarming and inspiring how many of you have been concerned with the Annual Catholic Appeal and wanting to give even more to support our ministries that are working hard to provide double or triple the usual number of meals and basic necessities to those affected by this pandemic. Ted and Ruth Rossi, for example, donated 10,000 masks to the diocese to be used by our ministries, schools and parishes. This was a truly remarkable and very much needed donation.

ACA donor Ted Rossi loading one of the many boxes of masks he and his wife, Ruth, donated to the diocese.

ACA video once Mass resumes, at this point, we cannot definitively say when that will be. We therefore ask you to go to our website, and view the ACA video to learn about some of the good things that our ministries

were able to do last year with the help of the Annual Catholic Appeal and donors like you.

We realize how difficult this time is for our parishioners, from trying

To all our amazing donors, we offer you our sincere thanks. For those who have not yet had the chance to donate, we ask you to prayerfully consider what you are able to give or pledge. If your situation does not allow you to participate this year, we completely understand. We would ask everyone to continue to keep our ACA supported ministries in their thoughts and prayers. Thank you.

If you would like more information about the ACA, please contact Sue Underhill, our Campaign Manager, at (860) 886-1928 ext. 111 or by email at dodsu@norwichdiocese.net.

Clergy Appointments

Experience our personalized service without leaving the comfort of your home.

We are happy to work by phone or e-mail to find the perfect item for the children you love!

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D. D., Bishop of Norwich, has made the following clergy and diocesan appointments in the Diocese of Norwich

Reverend George Busto, from Hospital Chaplain, Middlesex Memorial Hospital, Middletown, with Residence at St. Francis of Assisi Church, Middletown, to Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament Parish in Rockville and Tolland.

Reverend Jeffrey Ellis, from Parochial Vicar, Blessed Sacrament Parish in Rockville and Tolland, to Full-time Canon Law Studies with residence at Saint Michael Parish in Stonington.

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Experience our $5 Shipping or leaving Curbside Pick-up the comfort of your home. leaving th We are happy to work by phone or e-mail to Complimentary Gift Wrap We are happy t find the perfect item for the children you love!

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Reverend Peter J. Langevin, Chancellor

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14 Club Road Windham, CT 06280 860.456.1107 www.sjlivingcenter.org

AUGUST 5

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Dedicating our love, compassion and service to our community.

By Susan Wallace, Executive Director Outreach to Haiti

Specializing in:

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*Short-term Rehabilitation *Long-term Care *End-of-Life Care *Daily Mass

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Even though life as we know it has taken a pause, ACA ministries haven't.

During this health crisis the ACA continues to deliver on our mission.

Thank you for your support.

Catholic Charities, Providing Hope in Times of Uncertainty “...whatever you did for one of these least brothers of mine, you did for me.”

—Matthew 25:40

By Jack Babbitt our 99-year history of Providing Help and Creating Hope for people of all faiths who are most in need.

“On March 23rd, my husband was laid off from work due to COVID-19.

Money was already tight due to me being unable to work because I am now a stay at home nana to my twin baby granddaughters. They moved in with us when they were six weeks old.

I want to say thank you so much for helping us! We went four weeks with no income.”

To help, you can donate nonperishable food, hygiene and baby items at any of our four locations.

One of the many notes of hope we receive from those we have had the pleasure of helping.

Now more than ever, Catholic Charities is providing support for our neighbors in need. Our Intensive Case Management Program provides emergency food, rental and utility assistance, baby items and other basic needs through our offices in Middletown, New London, Norwich and Willimantic.

Because of the business closures in Eastern Connecticut, many of those

we serve are facing financial hardship and many will be without food. Our priority is to ensure all who come to Catholic Charities for assistance are helped.

How can you help?

At Catholic Charities, we value our neighbors and know the most successful communities are made up

of individuals with unique and special gifts supporting one another. We are grateful for every person within our community and want to remind you that Catholic Charities is here to help in any way we can, especially during this critical time of uncertainty. As the need for assistance grows, your gift, no matter the size, will help us continue

If you would prefer to make a monetary donation, you can mail it to Catholic Charities, 331 Main St. Norwich CT 06360. Please call (860) 889-8346, extension 285, for more information.

While financial gifts help the most for our families, in times like these prayers or notes of encouragement can go a long way as well. Know that your donation really does make a difference in the lives of so many!

Please join us for the Mass of Ordination to the Holy Priesthood of

Reverend Mr. Michael Bovino Saturday, June 27, 2020 at 10:30 am Live Streamed from the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Currently, food, diapers and wipes remain the greatest needs of those in our community. Our food distribution has more than doubled from the average monthly request.

ATTENDANCE IN THE CATHEDRAL BY INVITATION ONLY 9

Faith in Action: Easter People Respond in Time of Need

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin, Catholic Family Services of the team are, she said she feels connected to them. “As I sew, I think about all of the people contributing to this project and I feel less isolated and less alone. I am grateful for the opportunity to help and be a part of this.”

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

In the worst of times, the best of people shine through. That is how to describe Operation Parish Hands, a mask-making outreach ministry currently under way at the yoked parishes of St. Columba in Columbia and the Church of the Holy Family, Hebron.

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Within days after the state directed that people begin wearing masks to prevent the spread of COVID-19, the parish’s mask-making operation was under way with almost 100 parishioners involved. A flyer distributed to all parishioners announcing the project said it all, “Let us be Easter people in this time of need.” And Easter people they are.

“Our parish has always been apostolic in reaching out to others,” Pastor, Reverend Michael Phillippino said.

“This is more of the same.”

Nicole Bernier, music ministry director for the parish, is spearheading the project. In just three weeks, the ministry completed and distributed more than 500 masks and is well on its way to making more, she said. “Once the word got out, we had volunteers ready to go,” she said. “Service is a real hallmark of our parish. Where there is a need we strive to meet it.”

She created a list of tasks that needed to get done and the volunteers who could complete them. These include: those donating materials; the laundry team who wash and iron fabrics; cutters who size the material and elastic; those assembling materials into kits; those who sew; those inserting filters into the masks; and the packaging and delivery teams.

Carol Puckett, a member of the St. Columba Parish Community, finishes one of the masks she sewed for Operation Parish Hands.

Parishioner Jean Terza, who Bernier called a ‘master sewer,’ created a YouTube video for the sewers that demonstrates how to make the masks. “Everyone has their job and it goes along smoothly. As long as we have people willing to help, we will continue to do this,” she said.

The group has now ventured into making clear masks for sign language interpreters so that their mouths are visible as they form words, which is a key component of their interpretation skills.

The parish is a ‘buzz of activity,’ yet according to Bernier, none of the volunteers come in contact with one another. Everyone works from home.

They arrive individually to the Cry Room at Holy Family Church, which

Every parishioner requesting a mask has received one. In addition, masks have been given to every resident at Colebrook Assisted Living Facility in Hebron and another order is in production for residents at Douglas Manor Nursing and Rehabilitation Center in nearby Windham. The Mary Ellen Gonci from the Church parish is also providing masks to local sister churches, the soup kitchen of the Holy Family in Hebron and other organizations. Bernier wears one of the clear masks the group is making for sign language noted that as long as the donations for materials continue to come in and the interpreters to wear so that their team continues to volunteer, masks mouths are visible as they form will be made for those who need words. them. has been converted to a makeshift production facility, to pick up the materials they need and later drop them off when their part of the project is done.

Retiree Carol Puckett, a member of the St. Columba Parish Community, is one of the many sewers who answered the call for help. “I wanted to help stop the spread of the virus and do something positive in such a negative environment,” she said.

“Through this ministry we are taking up the battle against the virus using the talents God gave each of us to do this wonderful thing and make a difference.” Although she is isolated from the parish community and doesn’t know who the other members

Anyone needing a mask can send an email to parishhands@gmail.com.

Please include your name, address, number of masks needed and the gender of the recipients. The masks are free, but the group welcomes donations, specifically the following: any type of washed and ironed fabric material (100% cotton works best); ¼ or 1/8th inch elastic; spools of thread in any color; and Ziploc bags for package delivery.

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

For the first time ever and to celebrate the 127TH anniversary of the CT State Council, Catholic men from Connecticut will be able to join the Order as online members for $1*.

It’s only for the first 127 men to join and no later than June 15TH. To join or get more information go to kofc.org/joinus Use Promo Code CT127 *membership fee normally $30 for the fee to be waived

Any questions, contact membership.director@ctstatecouncil.org

Trust in the mercy of God’s love.

If you are carrying the grief and sorrow of past abortions, call Project Rachel a post-abortion healing ministry. All calls are confidential.

860-861-4439

See the latest list of retreats on NorwichDiocese.org

ADDRESS CHANGES

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

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

Thank you for helping us maintain accurate mailing information to better serve you.

When You Support Our Advertisers, You Support Our Ministries

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Connecticut Catholic Men Join the Knights of Columbus for $1*

11

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Ed Tessman

Catholic Charities stands ready to assist our Catholic Charities stands ready to assist our community Community with utility and rental assistance, utility and rental food, assistance, food, baby needs, lic Charities stands ready to assist ourwith community baby needs, SNAP (food stamp) SNAP tility and rental assistance, food, baby needs, (food stamp) enrollments, enrollments,and andother otheremergency emergency basic needs. (food stamp) enrollments, and otherbasic emergency needs. We are conducting appointments by phone.

We are conducting appointments by phone. needs. We are conducting appointments by phone.

If you need our helpcommunity please call us at: Catholic Charities stands ready to assist If you need help please call us at: need help please call us at: Norwich (860) 889-8346 with utility and rental assistance, food, baby needs, Norwich: (860) 889-8346 ch - (860) 889-8346 Newand London -emergency (860) 443-5328 SNAP (food stamp) enrollments, other New London (860) 443-5328 London - (860) 443-5328 Willimantic - (860) 423-7065 basic -needs.

We are conducting appointments by phone. mantic (860) 423-7065 Willimantic (860) 423-7065 Middletown (860) 346-0060 etown 346-0060 Middletown (860) 346-0060 f you(860) need help please call us at:

Norwich - (860) 889-8346 New London - (860) 443-5328 Willimantic - (860) 423-7065 12 Middletown (860) 346-0060

By Susan Wallace, Executive Director Outreach to Haiti

A

s we deal with the pain, sorrow and fear from the coronavirus, one of our friends in Haiti, an artisan, sent the following sentiments to one of our board members.

population. Many of the children can go to school, many of our young can go to university. All that because you received our brothers and sisters and gave them jobs to do. Haiti will always be indebted to your country.

How are you doing these days? I was thinking about you.

I consider America is great because it is not only great for itself but also for many other countries in the world.

By the grace of God, we are fine in Croix-des-Bouquets. My only concern, and the concern of many in my country, is that the U.S. are still troubled. We have so many friends there that we love so much.

Let us keep praying so God can give you His face. You and your country don't deserve this. God has a plan for the U.S., don't worry.

I don't know you well yet, but I love people who love my country and my brothers and sisters in Haiti. I keep praying for the U.S. because if it wasn't for your country, things could be far worse in my country.

We are numerous as we are a big

May God hear your prayers my friends in America and know that Haiti is feeling so sad because of your trouble now.

Our Haitian friend beautifully expresses the scriptural quotation from Romans (12:5), “We belong to each other, and each of us needs all the others.” For all the challenges Haiti has faced in their history, especially those in the past 10 years (a devastating earthquake, two major hurricanes, and great civil unrest often leading to violence), their concern is for others.

Our artisan friend expresses the great faith in God most Haitians have and their hope that the future will be better. This comes at a time when Haitians are preparing to face the full force of the pandemic knowing the fragility of their medical system, but their prayers and concerns are for us.

Outreach to Haiti has been working in Haiti for almost 40 years and provides medical and health care, food and nutrition, education scholarships, entrepreneurship programs and supplies as emergencies arise.

Parker

This past year, Haiti has faced a major food shortage due to the civil unrest, which will only be made worse by the pandemic. If you are able, please support our work. Our ministry in Haiti reflects the belief we are all made in the image and likeness of God and, as God’s children we are one family. Made God bless you.

Please pray for Haiti.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Prayers From Haiti

parkermemorials@yahoo.com

Visit OutreachtoHaiti.org to find out how you can help.

13

Cards Spread Hope, Happiness to Shut-ins

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin, Catholic Family Services

14

“Hope and happiness is something we all need now,” said Kathleen Kukish of Our Lady of Mercy Parish, Durham. That thought, she said, was the motivation she needed to join an Office of Faith Events (OFE) venture making greeting cards for residents confined to area convalescent homes and health care facilities. “By making cards … I can spread a little happiness to someone at this trying time. It’s the least I can do and it gives me happiness also.”

Mary, a resident at Wadsworth Glen, Middletown, expressed similar thoughts: “Thank you for the lovely card I received. It helped to brighten my day. I have good days and bad days but your card reminded me to smile even on the bad days because God is watching over me. Thank you for your kindness. Please thank the artist who drew the lighthouse on my card; it was beautiful! I have it on my wall so I can see it from every part of my room.”

It began as a simple idea by OFE director Andrea Hoisl. Before the shelter-in-place edict from Governor Ned Lamont, she and other diocesan staff members at the Bishop Flanagan Ministry Center gathered around the lunch table one day and began making the cards for those in convalescent homes. From there it snowballed into an active ministry of 20 people around the diocese who have distributed more than 2,000 cards.

Chester resident Carol Butler helps create the cards because of her concern for the residents. “Their small piece of the world suddenly became even smaller and may have caused confusion, restlessness, depression or anxiety. It is my hope that this simple outreach on my part opens the doorway of faith to the recipient.

The act of receiving a simple cheerful card can lift their mood, brighten their space, give them hope, joy, and the opportunity to share with their family the news that they received a card.”

As word about the venture spread, Hoisl received calls from people across the diocese asking how they could help. Some team members design the cards, while others place a hand-written note inside, or use creative computer graphic skills. Each card contains an inspirational message of hope, or promises of prayers to remind recipients that they are not alone, nor forgotten.

The Davis Place, a nursing and rehabilitation center in Danielson, is one of many facilities that received a

Tony Jasko, retired athletic director at Xavier High School in Middletown, and his wife Donna, both parishioners at St. Francis Church, Middletown, are also collaborating on the project.

packet of cards and wrote back to express its gratitude. “Thank you for the beautiful homemade cards. We sincerely appreciate the thoughts and

prayers. Our residents are doing well and the cards brought smiles to their faces! Thank you, stay well.”

“I was brought up and called to do this as a Catholic, but I also wanted to let others know they are thought about and cared for during this difficult time,” Tony said. “I hope the cards can put a smile on peoples’ faces and a good feeling in their hearts during Cont. on next page

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Seeds of Hope, LLC seeks dynamic and inspired Catholic Clinicians to provide psychotherapy to adults, married couples and older adults in our Colchester outpatient office. This is an opportunity to join a clinical practice with a faith-based mission as a fee for service clinician and enjoy unlimited growth potential.

The clinician will conduct initial assessments, establish treatment plans with measurable goals and provide individual and family psychotherapy in a manner consistent with the Catholic Faith and with guidelines for Medicaid, Medicare and Private Insurance managed care agreements. Flexible schedules and competitive compensation provided.

Candidates must be licensed in Connecticut and in good standing.

Clinician must possess a LCSW, LPC, LMFT or PHD. Clinicians should have 2 years of experience providing psychotherapy to children, adolescents and adults in office settings. Knowledge of Medicare guidelines and other insurances preferred.

Seeds of Hope Mission: To love and serve others with compassionate clinical excellence. God’s love heals, we pay witness to His healing process.

Please send your resume to Seeds of Hope, 147 Norwich Avenue, Colchester, CT 06415.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

this pandemic.” His wife Donna echoed those sentiments. “Since I could not go out and do service, I am grateful to reach out through the cards to help others by providing hope, love and some joy,” she said.

860-537-0079

392 South Main Street, Colchester

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

15

Parishioner Guide for the Restoration of Public Worship In late May, parishes received reopening guidelines. These guidelines were developed to help pastors and parish administrators as public worship resumes. The main goal in creating these standards is to keep everyone, faithful and clergy alike, safe while maintaining sound liturgical principles.

This is a shared responsibility. The pastors are responsible for ensuring the worship facilities fully meet the requirements set forth by the guidelines, while the faithful who choose to attend Mass follow all the guidelines.

THE FIRST PHASE

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Weekday Masses Begin

16

On Monday, June 8, 2020, churches that were able to fully implement the guidelines resumed the public celebration of weekday Masses.* The celebration of public Masses on Saturday evening and Sunday remain suspended until further notice.

Opening the churches to public worship for weekday Masses will give parishes a chance to evaluate their implementation of the guidelines and adjust where needed. This feedback will inform the decision of proceeding with weekend Masses.

Social Distancing Since “social distancing” will remain in place for the foreseeable future, pews are sectioned off to maintain six (6) feet, in all directions, between individuals and/or households.

Available seating will be clearly marked. Where the faithful may stand in line, (for example, waiting to go to confession or to receive Holy Communion), floor markings will indicate proper spacing.

It is important to note that seating will be limited because of social distancing and local regulations, therefore you may not be able to

attend a particular Mass if the church reaches capacity. We ask for your understanding and that you please respect directions given by parish volunteers who have been assigned the task of ensuring compliance with restrictions.

Hand Washing/Sanitizing Wherever possible, hand sanitizer will be made available near church entrances. If not available, the faithful are reminded of their responsibility to carry and use their own hand sanitizer.

Wear a Mask According to state mandate, a face mask that covers both nose and mouth is required of all attending public worship. The use of a face mask is not required by any person who by using it, will act contrary to his or her health or safety due to a medical condition. Children younger than age five are not required to wear a mask.

Distribution of Holy Communion Despite best efforts and practices, there is no completely sterile way to distribute and receive Holy Communion. To minimize potential contact, the following procedures will be in place: ● The distribution of Holy Communion to the faithful who wish to receive will take place immediately after Mass has concluded. This will allow clergy to prepare to distribute Holy

Communion and allow for a staggered dismissal of the faithful to avoid overcrowding at the doors of the church. The faithful are nevertheless encouraged to make an appropriate thanksgiving after receiving the Eucharist. ● Please observe the appropriate distance from others while waiting in line to receive. ● The faithful should lower their face coverings just as they are about to receive Holy Communion, and immediately replace their face covering once Holy Communion is received. ● If wearing gloves and you choose to receive Holy Communion in the hand, gloves must be removed before you can receive. The Eucharist may not be placed in a gloved hand. ● Please follow any additional guidance given in your parish about the procedure for the reception of Holy Communion. ● The faithful are reminded that our primary purpose in attending Mass is to participate in the act of worship and praise given to God. Therefore, one does not need to receive Holy Communion each time one attends Mass.

Those members of the faithful who are either uncomfortable with receiving Holy Communion at this time, or are not prepared sacramentally to receive, are encouraged to make an act of spiritual Communion.

*Please check with your parish for specific information regarding resuming public worship at your church.

Informational videos explaining what to expect upon returning to Church and your responsibilities to keep yourself and others safe can be found at NorwichDiocese.org/Coronavirus.

Videos available in English and Spanish.

SUNDAY OBLIGATION Dispensation Remains in Place The obligation to attend Sunday Mass continues to be dispensed for all the faithful in the Diocese of Norwich until further notice. Those who are considered “high risk” due to age or underlying health conditions are encouraged to stay home. Stay home also if you are experiencing symptoms of illness or not feeling well.

Since Sunday is still the Lord’s Day, the faithful are encouraged to make an Act of Spiritual Communion AND do one of the following while unable to attend Mass: ● Read and reflect on the Sunday scriptures; ● Pray the rosary, reflecting on the Glorious Mysteries; ● Watch the Sunday Mass on TV, or via the internet.

To find out the latest news about this and other topics of faith, subscribe to the Free Weekly Email Newsletter at NorwichDiocese.org/Newsletter.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

A PHASED APPROACH

17

11th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner Honorees Announced

By Gina Foster, Stewardship Coordinator, Office of Development

For most of us it has been a very difficult few months dealing with the social isolation and stress related to the COVID-19 crisis. For those of us with children in school, we are experiencing an added challenge, but our teachers have been working exceptionally hard with students and their parents through Google classroom, Zoom meetings and personal phone calls. Throughout this period, our schools and teachers have been dedicated to giving our students the best education possible through online distance learning.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

The commitment of our Catholic school educators in the Diocese has been well known for years. Recognizing the exceptional work of our educators, in 2010 Bishop Cote established the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Award for Contributions to Catholic Education in the Diocese of Norwich. Each year following its inaugural year, this award has been presented to three individuals who have made significant contributions to Catholic education in the Diocese of Norwich. The award ceremony takes place at the Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner. This year’s honorees are:

18

Andrea D. Hoisl, Director of the Office of Faith Events, Diocese of Norwich, Norwich A former teacher at Xavier and current Director of the Office of Faith Events for the Diocese of Norwich, Andrea D. Hoisl has dedicated more than 30 years to education.

“Educating young people about God's unconditional love and mercy, for the past 34 years, has been an honor and a privilege. I go to work every day feeling blessed to be living out my vocation. There is no one luckier than me,” Ms. Hoisl said.

The Very Reverend Dennis M. Perkins, Vicar for the Clergy, Diocese of Norwich, Norwich, and Pastor, Saint Michael Parish, Pawcatuck

Frederic S. Smith, Teacher, Saint Bernard School, Uncasville

In addition to being vicar of clergy and pastor of Saint Michael the Archangel Church in Pawcatuck, Father Perkins has been a teacher at St. Michael School for 10 years.

Now in his 53rd year as a teacher and coach at Saint Bernard School, Frederic S. Smith has dedicated much of his life to the school.

He is also a Saint Bernard graduate of the class of 1964.

“It has been a privilege for me to be a pastor and teacher in a parish where its Catholic school has been such a significant and vital part of the community for over 145 years,” Father Perkins said.

“Though my profession is teaching, an essential part of my experience has been learning from my students and colleagues.

This is the true reward of my time at Saint Bernard,” Mr. Smith said.

This year’s 11th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner will be held on Sunday, October 25 at 4pm. at The Riverhouse at Goodspeed Station, 55 Bridge Road, Haddam. Sponsorship opportunities, program book ads and tickets are available for purchase by contacting Gina Foster at ginafoster@norwichdiocese.net or by calling the Office of Development at (860) 886-1928.

All proceeds from the Seton Scholarship Dinner support Catholic elementary school students and are distributed by the Catholic Foundation in the form of tuition assistance grants.

We hope many of you will join us in celebrating Andrea D. Hoisl, The Very Reverend Dennis Perkins and Frederic S. Smith.

Celebrating 20 Years

ST. MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY

For over 20 years, we have been the right choice for retirement living: • A long list of amenities including transporation and meals • Spacious, beautifully appointed apartments and cottages with independent or assisted living options • A safe, welcoming community with a gracious, attentive staff and so much more

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

Why not call 860-779-8700 today for more information or a personal tour to experience what puts us at the top of the list every time.

Harland Road, Taftville • 860-887-1019

36 Vina Lane Brooklyn, CT 06234 www.piercecare.org

Creamery Brook is part of the Continuum of Care at

St. Joseph School New London, CT

“A Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 81 Years of Excellence In Catholic Education Grades K-8

Registration is ongoing, please call for information

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

SACRED HEART CEMETERY ST. PATRICK CEMETERY

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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

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JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

of serving Northeast Connecticut Seniors and Their Families

19

Leave a Legacy Month During Pandemic

By Mary Ellen Mahoney, Executive Director of Development

For more information about various way to “Leave a Legacy” please contact Mary Ellen Mahoney, Director of Development, by telephone at 860-886-1928 ext. 113 or e-mail memahoney@norwichdiocese.net.

You may also visit the Planned Giving portion of the Development Office website.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

OBERAMMERGAU

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PASSION PLAY 2022

The pandemic we are all experiencing together has introduced a new sense of busy into our lives. We are now faced with balancing working from home, schooling our kids, shopping and preparing meals in the safest way possible, keeping our home virus free and looking out for our “at risk” family and community members who need help getting food and supplies. On top of these day to day activities, we have the added stress of worrying about the health of our loved ones.

During this challenging time, our greatest source of love and guidance is as always, our Savior, Jesus Christ, the constant in our lives. When our spirits are at their lowest and we are fearful of the unknown, we must take time to pray and remember that God is always with us and will give us the strength we need. Many find during the quiet of prayer that they not only thank God for his goodness, but they also contemplate deep questions about how they will leave this world; what their legacy will be.

One way to solidify your legacy is through estate planning. Each year, the Diocese of Norwich proclaims June as

“Leave a Legacy” month. Through this initiative parishioners are reminded of the importance of giving through estate planning. With your generosity and planning you can make a gift through your future estate, or even right now, if you desire. The pandemic has greatly increased the needs of our parishes and ministries, all of whom could benefit from a planned gift.

There are many ways to “Leave a Legacy” ranging from updating your Will to include a gift to your parish, diocese, school or ministry; making your parish the beneficiary of your life insurance policy if your kids have grown and your mortgage paid; naming a diocesan entity as the beneficiary of a portion of your pension or IRA, just to name a few.

Establishing an endowment with the Catholic Foundation through your Will or during your lifetime is another great way to ensure that your favorite diocesan entity is supported into perpetuity.

As always, all decisions regarding your estate and planned gifts should be reviewed with your attorney and financial advisor.

INCLUDING THE BEST OF AUSTRIA, GERMANY & SWITZERLAND CELEBRATE THIS POSTPONED ONCE IN A DECADE EVENT

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860-344-0097 • svdmiddletown.org St.Vincent de Paul Place Norwich 860-889-7374 • svdpp.org

WAITTE’S INSURANCE AGENCY SERVING THE AREA FOR OVER 100 YEARS

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We cannot tolerate or turn a blind eye to racism and exclusion in any form. At the same time, we have to recognize that violence is self-destructive and self-defeating. Nothing is gained by violence and so much is lost. Let us pray for reconciliation and peace.

When You Support Our Advertisers, You Support Our Ministries

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

FUNERAL HOMES Donations are welcomed and especially needed during the current health crisis.

21

Sacred Heart School, Groton

Sacred Heart School, Taftville

Gail Kingston, Principal

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

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

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.

Superintendent's Office HIGH SCHOOLS

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

My Dear Friends,

22

This has truly been an academic year that our students, parents, teachers and administrators will remember for the rest of our lives.

I am proud of the way our schools handled the closure during this pandemic. Throughout this whole time, I am happy to report that we provided our students with three things that are unique to our system of schools: faith, hope and love. What better silver lining could we provide for our families than the hope that Our Lord is in control and will never abandon us? We have successfully kept up with the spiritual well-being of our students while still providing our high standard academics, both in a manner which is new to us. We have to look for the silver linings in everything as true believers. Therefore, this month, I asked administrators of all of our schools to relay one silver lining that they have experienced during these last couple of months. Thank you for all your support.

Academy of the Holy Family, Baltic (Mother Mary Mark Orsulak, SCMC, Guidance and Academics) “Distance learning is alive and well at the Academy of the Holy Family, where our students are spread across the globe, connected by Google Classroom and Zoom sessions, and God’s timing is everything - how would we otherwise be able to maintain the educational continuum and meet the needs of our students without this current technology?”

Mercy High School, Middletown (Sister Mary McCarthy, RSM, President) “Students are very involved with in-service projects, as well as reaching out in most creative ways, and every Friday afternoon faculty and staff enjoy a Zoom social hour to catch up and stay in touch, aside from classrooms and adviser groups.”

St. Bernard School, Montville (Don Macrino, Headmaster) “Human contact is a gift that we take for granted. Social distancing has given us an appreciation for the simplest of daily encounters.”

Xavier High School, Middletown (David Eustis, Headmaster) “I have been truly amazed by the outpouring of volunteer support that Xavier students have given to the Middletown and Central Connecticut community over the past six weeks, from making hearts, to masks, to delivering pizza to healthcare workers, it has warmed my heart to see our students living the Xaverian Mission.”

God Bless!

Henry Fiore, Jr.

Superintendent of Schools

Brendan Donahue, Principal “In addition to the academic successes, our students have learned to cope with a very stressful and unique circumstance, which has translated into valuable life lessons.”

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

of the Holy Fam St. John School, Old Saybrook Academy Mother Mary David, SCMC

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

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

“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

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

PRE-K TO GRADE 8 SCHOOLS Sacred Heart School, Groton (Dr. Gail Kingston, Principal)

St. Joseph School, New London (Marianne Cote, Principal)

“The students are making it through by the teachers and families working together showing patience, respect, encouragement and love.”

“My observation is that faith and family have become more central to the lives of our school families, as outside activities have diminished.”

Sacred Heart School, Taftville (Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal)

St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale(David Sizemore, Principal)

“Our school has become the Google school we dreamed it to be through the openness of our faculty and staff reaching new heights in their utilization of technology.”

St. James School, Danielson (Linda Joyal, Principal) “The Saint James parents provided support and recognized the faculty for their outstanding quality of remote learning, projects, fun activities and learning packets with flowers, cards, photos and videos.”

St. John School, Old Saybrook (Mother Elaine Moorcroft, SCMC, Principal) “One student, who was reluctant to do any schoolwork at home, has transitioned to one of my star students, and is thriving with our distance learning plan, motivated to do the online lessons on Nearpod, accepting the challenges I post on ClassDojo, and working diligently on his paper and pencil packets!”

St. John Paul II School, Middletown (Larry Fitzgerald, Principal) “St. John Paul II is conducting the first virtual Art Show and Chorus Concert in school history.”

“I am so proud of each and every stakeholder: teachers, staff members, parents, guardians and students in how they have adapted so quickly to our "new normal."

St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic (Ian Holland, Principal) “At St. Mary-St. Joseph School in Willimantic, we continued to hold our monthly First Friday school Masses, which are live-streamed on catholicwindham.org, and are a great way to show our school community that it was possible to experience our faith together even when we were apart.”

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck (Doris Messina, Principal) “St. Michael School has learned that it is possible to teach and learn classically online, as students are having discussions on Google Classroom and Padlet, teachers are learning new technologies, and everyone is engaged and working.”

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich (Sharon Stewart, Principal) “St. Patrick Cathedral School is so lucky to have such dedicated teachers, students and parents. The dedication, commitment, patience, faith and kindness are words we try to live by, and it makes me so proud to be the principal.”

St. Joseph School, Baltic (Sister Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal) “During this time, I have found more time to pray and to thank God for the many good things that people are doing by sharing their knowledge, experience and help in so many ways, and times like this bring us closer to God and the love that He has for us.”

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

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

mily, Baltic

C, Principal CT

St. John Paul II School, Middletown

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

www.norwichdso.org

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Xavier Students Serve Others During COVID -19

By Matthew Conyers and Jeff Otterbein Director of Communications

Y

ou've seen the pictures, the ones with the healthcare workers taking off their masks after a long day and exposing bruises.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

You can't help but have a reaction, especially considering what doctors, nurses and first responders are already dealing with these days.

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Alex Rowlins '23 and his sister Cate saw the pictures, too. And during Xavier High School’s April break from online learning, the pair decided to do something about it locally.

Instead of traveling to the beach as the family planned before COVID-19, Alex and Cate, who is a student at the University of Vermont, spent April vacation working on special headbands with buttons to help some of their local health care workers.

“We saw the pictures of doctors and first responders who had worn face masks and many of them after a long day had bruises on their faces,” Alex said. “The headbands were designed to make it more comfortable to wear the masks for a long period of time.”

Together, the siblings made some headbands with hand-sewn buttons designed to hold the masks in place more comfortably. They donated the headbands to the staff at the Middlesex Health Center in Marlborough.

“We felt it was important to give back to the community, which is something I have learned at Xavier,” Alex said. “I have learned that even a

Mitchell Wollen ’22 idea of creating signs to support our health care heroes.”

Alex Rowlins '23 and his sister Cate little bit of work and support can That all changed when the go a long way in helping others in coronavirus shut down life as we difficult times.” knew it. As he said, his hectic schedule came to a halt. He found a You’ve also seen the signs, the way to make it hectic again, though. ones with hearts on them thanking various essential workers during the “I began to envision all the health care coronavirus outbreak. providers who are working tirelessly to provide care to those who have Mitchell Wollen ’22 would spend fallen ill in my community,” Wollen three hours at swim practice each said. “With help from my family, we day. Between school, homework and brainstormed and came up with the swimming, his days were full.

Mitchell, his sister Mikayla, home from the University of New Haven doing online learning; and his parents, Julie and Mark, transformed into quite the production team, really cranking it up during April vacation.

They live in Wallingford.

The hearts are cut, sanded and painted red with “thank you” painted in white. They are on a stake so they can be placed in the ground. The family delivered them and about 300 were sold, raising about $3,000.

The money went to provide food for health care workers in the area.

The signs ended up being featured in various media outlets.

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Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony

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

Encouraged by this thought I implore to you to obtain for me (request) The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so you are the saint of miracles Oh gentle and loving St. Anthony whose heart is full of human sympathy whisper my petition into the ears of sweet infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms, and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. This 13 day Novena has never been known to fail. Say three Hail Mary's and three Glories and promise publication.

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Mercy Students ‘A Butterfly of Love’ Project Shows Support

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Marie C. Kalita, Director of Communications

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A group of Mercy High School friends have teamed up to assemble care packages for those affected by the COVID-19 pandemic as part of a service project called A Butterfly of Love.

'23, Elena Cahill '21, Gabby Grant ’20, Aine Lally '22, Sarah Lynch '23, Julia Nadolski '23, Elisia Pagliuca ’21, Amanda Ross '21, Lindsay Stevenson '20, Madeleine Thompson ’21, Lillian Wimler ’21.

The girls put together packages of face masks for people working and volunteering on the front lines during the pandemic. They also are delivering care cards for patients and people who cannot receive visitors, and including messages of thanks to helpers and caregivers.

The project is a team effort fueled by the Mercy spirit. At home, each student handles a specific task to make all the parts of the project work, such as making caring cards, writing thank-you notes, coloring the "A Butterfly of Love" mandalas, or dropping off the packages.

A Butterfly of Love mandala is a gift of patience, love and hope. A mandala represents that life is never ending and everything is connected.

At Mercy there is a saying: “The Circle of Mercy is Timeless,” and this project is the proof. Senior Emilee Apuzzo works at the Big Y supermarket in Guilford. In need of a face mask, she saw the Butterfly of Love boxes on a counter in her department. When she asked her supervisor where they came from, the reply was, “Some girls from Mercy dropped them off.” That is the spirit of Mercy and the reason the circle is timeless. The butterflies helped

Junior Kaila Lujambio created the project and is the lead organizer, along with senior Katie Bogucki.

Week by week more “butterflies of love” are coming aboard. Currently, the following Mercy students are involved: Gabby Algiere '23, Christina Beaulieu '20, Jess Bogucki

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a friend, a classmate, a woman of Mercy who is working to help the community at large.

Each package includes a label with the words: While we are apart, we still have each other.

By visiting the project’s website, people can request the donation of care packages to places in need.

“We have raised enough money for about 2,500 three-ply FDA and EU approved masks to be donated,” Lujambio said ”We are waiting on more masks. By request of some donors, we have started including some local business gift cards as well.”

While the friends rely mainly on word-of-mouth, the response has been tremendous. The group has delivered 1,875 face masks and 605 encouragement and thank you cards.

The list is growing. One alumna sent in a request to the advancement office at Mercy High School seeking donations, and within hours, the butterflies accepted the request and began working on the donation for an assisted living center in Middletown.

“We are so appreciative of your efforts and caring with your donation of masks and cards for our healthcare team at the Solnit Children’s Center in Middletown. All our frontline workers are so grateful for your compassion and prayers during COVID-19. Forever Mercy Strong.”

“We are being very careful with our drop-off/pick-ups by following distance requirements, wearing masks, using gloves, washing hands,” Lujambio said. “It takes a bit of coordination and we are trying to be contactless to enforce the staying six feet apart requirement.

Our parents, teachers, and alumnae have helped us with deliveries, too.”

The statement on the About Us page of the website says it all: We are group of young women joined by the Circle of Mercy.

We are current Mercy High School students joined to continue the works of Mercy our community inspires. This virus does not stop the love and care for others. Our group wants to assure people can have the protection and support needed to continue taking care of others in challenging positions.

To purchase, donate or request a care package or donation, visit abutterflyoflove.wixsite.com/ abutterflyoflove. The group has been posting online updates at their Instagram account @ AButterflyofLove.

~RNs Nisha T. and Krista Annino Santagata ’92, mother to Brayden ‘23 TO PLACE AN AD OR STORY IN THE AUGUST ISSUE ADVERTISEMENTS AND CONTENT DUE ON JULY 6, 2020 CONTACT ADVERTISING SALES/PRODUCTION MANAGER MEREDITH VERNOTT, 860.887.3933 COMMEREDITH@NORWICHDIOCESE.NET

PRAYER INTENTION We pray that all those who suffer may find their way in life, allowing themselves to be touched by the Heart of Jesus.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Some of the local recipients that have received care packages include the Columbus House shelters in New Haven, Wallingford, Middlesex counties (which are now operating from hotels); Whitney Rehabilitation Care Center, Hamden; Albert J. Solnit Psychiatric Children’s Center, Middletown; Poet Seat Health Center; Middlesex Hospital ICU, Middletown; Middletown Police Department; St. Vincent DePaul Soup Kitchen, Middletown; Master’s Manna Food Pantry, Wallingford; Yale New Haven Hospital, New Haven; COVID Shelter One, New Haven; Town of Wallingford employees; and area food/grocery stores and frontline workers.

- Pope Francis

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Knights of Columbus Founder Father Michael McGivney Moves Closer to Sainthood FCC News Desk The Vatican on May 27 announced that Pope Francis approved the promulgation of a decree recognizing a miracle attributed to the intercession of the founder of the Knights of Columbus, Venerable Father Michael J. McGivney, a Connecticut priest who served his flock during the pandemic of 1890, before himself becoming ill and dying of pneumonia.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

The pope’s action means that Father McGivney can be declared “Blessed,” the step just prior to sainthood. An additional miracle attributed to Father McGivney’s intercession will be required for his canonization as a saint.

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McGivney is best known for founding the Knights of Columbus in 1882. Nearly a century before the Second Vatican Council, his prescient vision empowered the laity to serve Church and neighbor in a new way. Today, the Knights of Columbus is one of the largest Catholic organizations in the world with 2 million members in North and Latin America, the Caribbean, Asia, and Europe.

The miracle recognized as coming through Father McGivney’s intercession involved an unborn child in the United States who in 2015 was healed in utero of a life-threatening condition after prayers by his family to Father McGivney.

A date will soon be set for the beatification Mass, which will take place in Connecticut. It will include the reading of an apostolic letter from the Holy Father and the bestowing of the title “Blessed” on Father McGivney.

Earlier this year, in an address to the Knights of Columbus Board of Directors, Pope Francis said the organization has been faithful “to the vision of your founder, Venerable Michael McGivney, who was inspired by the principles of Christian charity and fraternity to assist those most in need.”

“Father McGivney has inspired generations of Catholic men to roll up their sleeves and put their faith into action,” Supreme Knight Carl A. Anderson said.

“He was decades ahead of his time in giving the laity an important role within the Church. Today, his spirit continues to

shape the extraordinary charitable work of Knights as they continue to serve those on the margins of society as he served widows and orphans in the 1880s. Father McGivney also remains an important role model for parish priests around the world and left us a transformative legacy of effective cooperation between the laity and clergy.”

Born of Irish immigrant parents in 1852 in Waterbury, Connecticut, Father McGivney was a central figure in the dramatic growth of the Church in the United States in the

late 19th century. Ordained in Baltimore in 1877, he ministered to a heavily Irish American and immigrant community in the then-Diocese of Hartford. At a time of anti-Catholic sentiment, he worked tirelessly to keep his flock close to the faith in part by finding practical solutions to their many problems – spiritual and temporal alike. With a group of the leading Catholic men of New Haven, he founded the Knights of Columbus in 1882 at St. Mary’s Church to provide spiritual support for Catholic men and financial resources for families that had suffered

the loss of their breadwinner.

The fledgling group soon became a major force in the areas of evangelization, charity, racial integration, and the defense of religious freedom.

Father McGivney spent his entire priesthood in parish ministry and died of pneumonia on August 14, 1890 – two days after his 38th birthday – after falling ill amid a pandemic. Recent scientific evidence indicates that that pandemic – like the current one – may have been caused by a coronavirus.

Continued

Saint Bernard School Planned Early For Remote Learning

Continued Father Michael McGivney

In March 2008, he was declared a Venerable Servant of God by Pope Benedict XVI, who during his visit to St. Patrick’s Cathedral cited the “remarkable accomplishment of that exemplary American priest, the Venerable Michael McGivney, whose vision and zeal led to the establishment of the Knights of Columbus.”

Two recent books also tell the story of Father McGivney and his legacy: Parish Priest (2006), his biography; and the The Knights of Columbus: An Illustrated History (2020).

More information is also available at FatherMcGivney.org Knights of Columbus, Connecticut State Council Statement: The Connecticut State Council of the Knights of Columbus are overjoyed to announce that Pope Francis has approved a miracle attributed to the intercession of our Founder Fr. Michael J. McGivney Wednesday, paving the way for the beatification of the founder of the Knights of Columbus.

What a great day for Knights of Columbus here in the Founder’s State and throughout the world. What a great day for parish priests in the Archdiocese of Hartford and throughout the world.

What a great day for the Church!

We look forward to when a date will be set for the beatification Mass, which will, according to all reports, take place in Connecticut. It will include the reading of an apostolic letter from the Holy Father and the bestowing of the title “Blessed” on Father McGivney.

Venerable Father Michael J. McGivney pray for us!

By Kimberly S. Hodges, Director of Admissions and Marketing

I

n early January, St. Bernard School Headmaster Don Macrino and the administration became concerned by the reports of a virus impacting Wuhan, China and the closure of schools there. Watching the situation carefully, faculty and administration created a contingency plan that would enable St. Bernard students to seamlessly continue their studies through remote learning if needed.

To prepare for virtual instruction, Technology Coordinator and computer science teacher Ann Marie Jakubielski added workshops and increased the school’s technology resource library support for teachers. She continues to update our resources and provide additional training.

As a school moving toward one-to-one computing, many of our students already had a Chromebook. However, those students who were without their own computer were given a Chromebook to use for their studies. This enabled all St. Bernard students to continue following the curriculum at home.

Using a variety of programs and platforms, students have been able to keep up with their studies and even go on “field trips” and participate in several educational activities. In addition to instructing the students, teachers and staff reach out with encouraging messages, personal tutoring sessions, and prayers letting students and families know that we are all in this together.

‘Scholarship, Spirit and Community’ are hallmarks of a Saint Bernard Education. As a Catholic school, it is important to not only engage students academically but also spiritually.

Campus Minister Suzanne Haulotte and theology teachers Jim Leone, Johanna Reilly and Paul Servideo post daily prayers for the students. Parents are invited to pray the rosary each Friday with Mrs. Haulotte.

We are not only a community of learners; we are a family with traditions. Unfortunately, we cannot gather at this time to share our spring traditions. Events that St. Bernard students look forward to each spring such as Spirit Week, Grandparents Mass & Luncheon, and Sibling Spotlight have become virtual events. New memories are also being made with the SBS Chalk Challenge, Senior Spotlight, Share Your Hobby and the Saints Strong Stay-Fit-Stay Healthy-Stay Safe program. SBS teachers got into the spirit by lip-synching the Beach Boys song, “Be True to Your School.”

“I applaud our teachers, students and parents for the wonderful job they have done under such difficult circumstances,” Headmaster Macrino said. “We are all praying for a return to some sense of normalcy and look forward to the time when we can all gather together in person once again.”

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Known by his contemporaries for his devotion to the faith and his embodiment of the characteristics of the “Good Samaritan,” his cause for sainthood was opened in the Archdiocese of Hartford in 1997. St. John Paul II – who was pope at that time – lauded Father McGivney’s principles, stating in 2003, “In fidelity to the vision of Father McGivney, may you continue to seek new ways of being a leaven of the Gospel in the world and a spiritual force for the renewal of the Church in holiness, unity and truth.”

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Fai th Sparks

Stations of the Cross Parallel Grief during COVID-19

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Andrea Hoisl, Director of Faith Events and Hank Daignault

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Someone we loved died during the COVID-19 quarantine. Unfortunately, this has become a very common experience for so many people across the globe and in our diocese. This unique period in time has afforded us and so many others a new way of experiencing the process of dying with our loved ones.

Although the circumstances that surround the dying process are very different, the graces we received on the journey remained the same. The gift of time – from death, to funeral, to burial and final goodbye – has given us the opportunity to ponder the positives and the negatives of this process. After much reflection and prayer, it became very clear that saying goodbye to a loved one during COVID-19 closely parallels Christ’s journey, witnessed through the Stations of the Cross.

As Jesus was condemned, so was our loved one who could not have visitors or contact with the outside world due to COVID-19.

As Jesus was forced to bear his cross, so was our loved one who was dealing with her illness in isolation.

As Jesus fell the first time, so did our loved one’s spirit fall after weeks and weeks with no direct contact with her loved ones or friends.

As Jesus met His mother for a brief moment, reminding Him of all the

love she gave Him in His lifetime, so, too, was our loved one reminded of how much she was loved through a FaceTime message, a sign outside her window or a kiss blown through the glass.

As Jesus was assisted by Simon of Cyrene, so, too, was our loved one helped by the health care workers available to her on a daily basis.

As Veronica wiped the face of Jesus out of care and compassion for Him, so today do our nurses try to ease the pain and suffering of the dying.

As Jesus falls a second time, so, too, our loved one fell deeper into the darkness that accompanies illness and isolation.

As Jesus passes the women who were crying out of empathy for Him and His suffering, so, too, did we weep for our inability to see or touch our loved one before she left this world.

As Jesus falls a third time, and the weight of the cross and the suffering becomes too much for Him to bear as a human being, so, too, is the separation too much for our loved one who was forced to bear her pain alone.

As Jesus’ garments are stripped, and we see the last piece of human dignity taken from Him, so, too, we watched our loved one become entirely dependent on strangers to care for her.

As Jesus is nailed to the cross and His suffering peaks as the last bit of

Ignite Your Faith.

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks for more resources

life leaves Him, so, too, our loved one endured the last of the pain and accepted goodbye.

As Jesus is taken down from the cross and laid in the tomb, peace finally surpasses all else. We feel sorrow and relief as our loved one journeys to eternal life, no longer in need of the earthly body.

Just as Jesus’ life, suffering and death were necessary for the resurrection to occur, so, too, is the suffering our loved one endured before peacefully leaving this world and entering the next.

We cannot change our current circumstances, we can only face the despair around us with hope – hope that gives our messy, imperfect, broken lives new meaning and helps us move toward acceptance. We will never get back the last kiss, hug or “I love you” because our loved one’s physical body is gone. But we do have the loving memories, phone conversations, Skype video and Facetime messages to hold us over until we meet again. In all that was taken away in the grieving process during COVID-19, there was much given to us as well. We just had to look a little harder to find it.

In loving memory of Donna C. Daignault, RIP

Video Series Explores ‘Hope and Faith’

By Ryan Blessing, Senior Writer, FCC Joshua,” Roach said. “And Mary, as to the current times – such as, when she conceived, the Angel said to her, can things return to normal?

‘Be not afraid.’

“It’s an anticipation and a question, “All these large events, throughout and it can make us antsy and restless the Bible, we are always reminded, in the waiting,” he said, and said the ‘Be not afraid,’ because God is with Easter season allows us to explore the us, no matter what,” she said. word “while” instead.

The most recent video in the series “While I’m in the stay-at-home presents national speaker and brand pattern what good can I do? While I’m manager of CatholicMom.com, figuring out what comes next, how can Danielle Bean, who talks about I serve,” he asked.

Mary in the month of May. Bean is Mary-Jo McLaughlin, coordinator scheduled to be the keynote speaker for the 2020 Norwich Diocesan Women's Conference St. Mary - St. Joseph School on October 24.

The videos feature Office of • 3 & 4 year old Pre-K to Grade 8 Faith Events staff along with guest speakers, and weave • Safe & Nurturing Environment current events into timeless messages and themes.

• Before/After School Program with tutoring National youth speaker Robert • After school clubs & sports Feduccia reflects on what God wants us to focus on each day • Fully accredited by NEAS&C & and to have ultimate trust in Him the State of CT during the pandemic.

Office of Faith Events Director Discover what a Andrea Hoisl talks about the Beatitudes in light of the Catholic education coronavirus, reminding viewers can do for your child! how each of us is fulfilling the call of the Gospel during the www.smsjschool.org * 860-423-8479 pandemic.

35 Valley Street, Willimantic, CT Another national youth speaker, Mike Patin, focused on the question of “when” as it relates

of Catholic Family Services and Marianne Nicholas, a assistant to the Office of Faith Events, also appear in the videos. The series continues with new entries each Wednesday.

JUNE/JULY 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

The Office of Faith Events in the Diocese of Norwich has embarked on a new series of weekly online videos, with office members offering messages of positivity and hope for troubled times.

The “Hope & Faith” video series grew out of a prior regular video series, which was under way just as the COVID-19 pandemic began to take root in the United States.

Faith Events produced a series of weekly videos exploring themes of the Lenten season. As the Lenten Series ended, the office decided to continue the weekly videos focused on Hope and Faith during the pandemic.

The entire series, which was up to eight weeks as of this writing, is available online at NorwichDiocese. org/FaithSparks. New videos are added to the site weekly, as well as to the Diocese of Norwich homepage at NorwichDiocese.org.

Liza Roach, Youth and Young Adult Minister for the Diocese of Norwich, kicked off the series during Holy Week, speaking about the numerous times the words “Be Not Afraid” appear in the Bible. She asks how the message can apply to our lives during the pandemic.

“Throughout the Bible, we constantly hear, ‘Be not afraid,’ all the way back to when God said it to Moses, and Moses handed over his reign to

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