FOUR COUNTY
Be Hol gi y W ns e Ap ek ril 5
CATHOLIC
Volume 32 • Number 3 • MARCH 2020 SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY
Journey Cross to the
Foot of the
In this Issue: Despite the past five-and-a-half years of seminary formation, I still feel in some ways as if I am a scuba diver about to explore the depths of the ocean for the first time.
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Deacon Michael Bovino reflecting on his call to the priesthood
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Your reception into the Church will not be the end of your journey of faith. But rather, this reception is a beginning. A new beginning. Bishop Michael R. Cote addressing catechumens and candidates at the Rite of Election Liturgy held Sunday March 1st at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick
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17 MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
ESTABLISHED IN 1989 AND PUBLISHED EACH MONTH EXCEPT JULY. PUBLISHER
Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishop of Norwich
860.887.9294
EDITORIAL OFFICE
25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613
Fax 860.859.1253
DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR
Wayne Gignac, 860.886.1281
wgignac@norwichdiocese.net
ADVERTISING SALES/PRODUCTION MANAGER
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Made Possible in part through your generous support of the Annual Catholic Appeal
Meredith Vernott, 860.887.3933 c ommeredith@norwichdiocese.net SENIOR WRITER/SOCIAL MEDIA MANAGER
Ryan Blessing, 860.887.3933 rblessing@norwichdiocese.net THEOLOGICAL ADVISOR
Very Reverend Ted F. Tumicki, S.T.L., J.C.L., J.V. 860.887.9294 PRINTING/LAYOUT
The Hartford Courant, 285 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 060115 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING DEADLINES
Carlo really had Jesus in his heart, really the pureness … When you are really pure of heart, you really touch people’s hearts. Antonia Salzano speaking about her late son the Venerable Carlo Acutis.
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to discuss what fortunate means. We talked 22 We had about all the things that we have and that some
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 3 March (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.
children might not have those things.
Sacred Heart School, Groton Kindergarten teacher, Trisha Fleury bringing a religion lesson to life for her students.
Discover more at
NorwichDiocese.org © Copyright 2020, Diocese of Norwich. All rights reserved. No content may be reproduced without expressed consent. Periodical Postage paid at Hartford, CT 06101 and at additional offices.
Podemos ayudar
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 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
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 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
Journey to the Foot of the Cross that whatever penitential practice we choose to observe this Lent, it must never draw attention to us, rather it should be done for the glory of God. When we pray, He tells us to go to our inner room. When fasting, He instructs us to wash our faces and anoint our heads and when giving alms, we are told to not blow a trumpet. We do not journey to the foot of the cross to look good or seek praise from others. True piety is loving devotion to God, pleasing Him in all things. Prayer, fasting, and almsgiving help us overcome selfishness and become more sensitive to the poor and vulnerable. One of the themes of Catholic social teaching is known as the preferential option for the poor. It says that we are
to put poor and vulnerable people first. Our moral responsibility is defined by our faith, our values, the teachings of the Church, and the example of Christ’s love for us. It is our responsibility from a social perspective to pray for and support organizations dedicated to bringing relief to those in need. Sitting on the sidelines is not an option. Not when there are members of our human family residing in the margins. The hungry, the displaced, and the discouraged are all counting on us. Our sacrifices strengthen our respect for those less fortunate. In our awareness of their need, we are united with them as sisters and brothers in God’s family. This year’s Annual Catholic Appeal, One Faith One Family, is a wonderful
opportunity to express our thanks for the blessings we receive in our lives and to extend ourselves to help those in need to survive and preserve their dignity. By lifting others, we are all lifted. A generous spirit flows from compassion. At the heart of it, true compassion means to see others as God sees them. May the Holy Spirit help us grow in this way and live truly compassionate lives. Sincerely yours in Christ’s love,
Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich
Un recorrido al pie de la cruz
Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, Este aňo, en mi mensaje de Cuaresma, hablé del recorrido al desierto por 40 días y 40 noches de Nuestro Bendito Señor. Su tiempo en el desierto, alejado de las distracciones cotidianas, fue una preparación necesaria para lo que se convertiría el Viernes Santo en su camino a la Cruz. Rezo para que su recorrido de preparación cuaresmal esté en marcha y, al igual que Jesús en el desierto, usted pueda limitar sus distracciones. Tres pilares espirituales que nos ayudan a prepararnos durante la Cuaresma son: la oración, el ayuno y la limosna. Nuestro Señor nos advierte que cualquier práctica penitencial que elijamos para observar esta Cuaresma,
nunca debe llamar la atención, sino que debe hacerse para la gloria de Dios. Él nos dice que cuando oremos, vayamos a nuestra habitación interior. Al ayunar, nos instruye que nos lavemos los rostros y unjamos nuestras cabezas y, nos dice que cuando demos limosnas, no toquemos la trompeta. Nosotros no recorremos hasta el pie de la cruz para lucir bien o buscar elogios de los demás. La verdadera piedad es la devoción amorosa a Dios, complaciéndolo en todas las cosas. La oración, el ayuno y la limosna nos ayudan a superar el egoísmo y a ser más sensibles a los pobres y vulnerables. Uno de los temas de la enseñanza social católica se conoce como la opción preferencial por los pobres. Dice que debemos poner primero a las personas
pobres y vulnerables. Nuestra responsabilidad moral se define por nuestra fe, nuestros valores, las enseñanzas de la Iglesia y el ejemplo del amor de Cristo por nosotros. Desde una perspectiva social, es nuestra responsabilidad orar y apoyar a las organizaciones dedicadas a brindar ayuda a los necesitados. Quedarse al margen no es una opción. No cuando hay miembros de nuestra familia humana viviendo marginados. Los necesitados, los desplazados y los desanimados cuentan con nosotros. Nuestros sacrificios fortalecen nuestro respeto por aquellos menos afortunados. Estamos unidos a ellos, en nuestro conocimiento de sus necsidades, como hermanas y hermanos en la familia de Dios.
La Campaña Católica Anual de este año, Una fe Una familia, es una maravillosa oportunidad para expresar nuestro agradecimiento por las bendiciones que recibimos en nuestras vidas y extendernos para ayudar a los necesitados a sobrevivir y preservar su dignidad. Al levantar a otros, todos somos elevados. Un espíritu generoso fluye de la compasión. En el fondo, la verdadera compasión es ver a los demás como Dios los ve. Que el Espíritu Santo nos ayude a crecer de esta manera y a vivir una vida verdaderamente compasiva. Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo,
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, In my Lenten message this year, I spoke of the journey of Our Blessed Lord into the desert for 40 days and 40 nights. His time in the wilderness, away from everyday distractions, was a necessary preparation for what would become His journey to the Cross on Good Friday. I pray that your Lenten journey of preparation is well underway and, like Jesus in the desert, you are able to limit your distractions. Three spiritual pillars that help prepare us during Lent are, prayer, fasting, and almsgiving. Our Lord cautions
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Life, not Politics, was at the Heart of March Coverage
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
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Our Lady of Lourdes Parish invites you to Bishop Robert Baron’s DVD series on
THE EUCHARIST 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
ecently the Four County Catholic (FCC) came under criticism, in an opinion piece published in a local newspaper, for our coverage of the March for Life rally in Washington, D.C. The article that sparked the criticism appeared in the February issue of the FCC. The inclusion of a photo of Donald Trump, the first President of the United States to attend the March for Life Rally since its beginning 47 years ago and remarks made by attendees to the event is what generated the disapproval. The FCC has deliberately and respectfully not endorsed political candidates or incumbent administrations. The policy of the diocesan paper has been to provide broad “faithful citizenship” guidance in close alignment with the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) to help each parishioner take the principles of our faith into close account in making an informed voting decision. The reporting, in words and/or image, of the current President of our Country standing with those who support the dignity of life on the occasion of this year’s March for Life was entirely about pro-life momentum. Our reporting was strictly about the vital cause of protecting the sanctity of life. The participation of the president in the March for Life is newsworthy.
There was no mention of or intent to suggest political reflections of the current president or his administration beyond his support of the protection and defense of the unborn children of God. In this general election year with the divisions and questions so heavily weighing on everyone’s mind, we would recommend reviewing the USCCB “Faithful Citizenship” information at FaithfulCitizenship.org. We believe you will find it helpful as you consider how each candidate‘s policy positions support the principles of our faith. May God guide us to choose representatives who will ensure the dignity of life and the personal freedom to worship and to vote our conscience for all that we believe as followers of Christ and responsible citizens. We thank all who write in on topics of such importance to today’s Catholic family. We pray for everyone to embrace the Christian imperative to protect the innocent unborn and to accept all who join in defending life — without speculating about their intent. God’s intent is the focus. We welcome all who support life.
During the coming months, we have asked our seminarians to step forward and give you a look inside their experiences as seminarians. We begin with a man just finishing up his formation at seminary, anticipating receiving a letter of call to priestly ordination from Bishop Cote. We hope by allowing our diocesan family to hear more directly from our seminarians, that each of you will come to a greater understanding of the journeys these men, who have stepped forward to answer generously, what they each believes is God’s will for them.
Vocations Corner
Mr. Jacob Ramos 2nd YearTheology Mount St. Mary’s, Emmitsburg, MD
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y name is Deacon Michael Bovino and I am currently in my fourth year of Theology at Mount St. Mary’s Seminary. This means that I am in my final year of seminary formation. God willing, I will be ordained to the priesthood this June. Of my parents, Mike and Paula, I am the oldest of four sons from Stonington, and my home parish is St. Michael the Archangel, which was just recently dedicated. During my time as an undergraduate at UCONN I began to discover the immense beauty and richness of our Catholic faith and, even more so, I was discovering that God makes Himself known to us, not as a nebulous, vague concept, but as a person. What first intrigued me about the priesthood was how priests seemed to be totally “set aside” for the service of God and His Church. Beyond this intuition, I did not have much in the way of practical knowledge about what it meant to be a
Mr. Dharen Brochero 1st Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
Deacon Michael Bovino 4th Year Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
priest or how one became a priest, but I did know that I revered, and on some level, desired to enter the priesthood. I applied to be a seminarian for the Diocese of Norwich in the spring of 2014 and was accepted that summer. I remember entering seminary knowing that it would be at least six years until I would be ordained as a priest. I thought that six years was perhaps a little bit much in the way of preparation...(did
it really have to take six years to form a man for the priesthood?). Since then I have had almost six years to discern, prepare for, learn about, and most importantly, pray about what it means to be a priest. And I can now say that six years is barely enough, (for me at least), to even begin to grasp the mystery of the priesthood. Despite the past five -and- a -half years of seminary formation, I still feel in some ways as if I am a scuba diver about to explore the depths of the ocean for the first time. I know that it will feel dark and cold at times...I know that there will be many dangerous creatures lurking in the waters...but I also know that it is God Himself who leads the way on this adventure to discover sights and wonders beyond imagining. Thank you all so much for your prayers and I humbly ask you to please continue to pray that I may one day serve Almighty God and you all one day as one of our Lord’s faithful priests.
Deacon Michael Bovino’s hopeful day of priestly ordination is June 27, 2020 at 10:30am at the Cathedral of St. Patrick. This day only becomes official after he receives a “letter of call to sacrament of Holy Orders and ordination to Holy Priesthood” from his Excellency, Michael R. Cote, D.D. Bishop of Norwich. Please continue to pray for Deacon Michael and for all our seminarians. Have a very blessed Lenten season.
Father Gregory Galvin, Director of Priestly 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
Our Diocese
Mr. Larry Barile 3rd Year Theology Pope St. John XXIII Weston, Massachusetts
A Seminarian Reflection
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
MARCH 19th 6pm St. Joseph, Chester
APRIL 23RD 6pm St. John, Cromwell
www.God-Calls.com
Mark Johnson 1st Year Pre-Theology Mount St. Mary’s Emmitsburg, MD
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A New Beginning
Rite of Election is ‘Experience of Conversion and Grace’ By Ryan Blessing
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
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he Rite of Election and Call to Continuing Conversion Ceremony held Sunday, March 1 at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick was a significant event for the 30 catechumens and 60 candidates preparing to enter the Catholic Church. “By accepting new members for the Church, we carry out the command of the Lord to proclaim the Good News to all of creation,” the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, told them. “I rejoice with you, our catechumens and candidates. I welcome you, your godparents and sponsors, your family and friends and all those along with you on this journey. Let this day be a further experience of conversion and grace in your life.” The catechumens, who have not been baptized, stood with their sponsors in the Cathedral of St. Patrick. In an act of recognition and admission, the bishop welcomed them to become members of the elect and be initiated into the sacred mysteries at the Easter Vigil. One such catechumen on the path is 22-year-old Kyle Doucette, a Willimantic resident. Kyle said that his father’s grandfather, before he passed away, made a request of Kyle. “He said he wanted me to get baptized,” Kyle said while standing next to his sponsor, his uncle Rick Boisvert of Lebanon. “But I’m also doing it for myself.” Kyle was interested in attending Mass from the time he was a young boy, his uncle said. Kyle would go to Mass when visiting his uncle and aunt, Kim
Boisvert. The Rite of Election was important not only to Kyle, but his uncle and aunt as well. “It’s very exciting. When he first came to me and said he wanted to do it, I was overwhelmed but very honored,” Rick said. “Honored and happy for him.” Joining the family in the cathedral hall for refreshments after the service were the dozens of fellow catechumens as well as candidates, who have been baptized but have not received further sacraments. In his homily, Bishop Cote referred to the gospel reading about Jesus’ journey alone into the desert for 40 days of fasting and prayer. Deserts, he said, are places of testing, encounter and renewal. “It was the will of the Father that Jesus undergo this period of trial as an example for us, and what we might experience in life,” he said. The catechumens and candidates have also undergone a period of preparation and trial. “While not necessarily a desert experience, this time has been an exercise in purification. A time to study the faith, a time of prayer,” he said. “However, your reception into the Church will not be the end of your journey of faith. But rather, this reception is a beginning. A new beginning.”
2020 ACA
“One Faith, One Family” Hits Home
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“One Faith, One Family” resonates. We truly are members of one family of faith, living the best we know how; showing empathy, support and love to those we know as well as to those we may never meet. The ACA provides the ability to share what you have with others in need. While you may not be able to speak your “message” to the recipients, you know that through your action and example, you can touch many lives and in turn, inspire those who have been helped to continue the cascade of good works by doing what they are able for others as well.
This year’s ACA will be introduced at your church on the weekend of March 14/15 and the video and in pew process will be conducted on March 21/22. Many of you will receive a letter from Bishop Cote along with a pledge card in the mail prior to the launch weekend. While I cannot begin to advise you on the size of your donation, I would ask you to take a few minutes from your busy lives to sit down and think When I couple the value of the ACA about what you are called to do. As and our love of our families with the Bishop Cote says in his letter, “As importance of our faith and desire to Catholics, we are called to ‘not look live by Jesus’call to treat our neighbors to your own interests but each of you as ourselves, this year’s ACA theme, to the interests of others’ (Phil 2:4);
to assist those in need of faith, food, counseling, education or spiritual renewal.” Please know that I pray for our diocese and people every day and thank you all for being part of my family in faith. We truly are “One Faith, One Family.”
For more information on the Annual Catholic Appeal, or to donate, please feel free to contact the Development Office at (860) 886-1928 or go online to NorwichDioceseDevelopment.org.
Merciful Saviour Gift Shop Are you looking for something that ignites yours or someone else’s faith? Find the perfect item that celebrates Lent, Easter and First Holy Communion
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! 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.
Our Diocese
By Mary Ellen Mahoney think everyone would agree that raising money and raising a family are never easy. My parents instilled in my brother and I many beliefs that helped guide me through my life. “Nothing worth doing is easy” and “Treat others the way you want to be treated” are two that I often think of both as director of the Annual Catholic Appeal and as a mother. As director, my job is to ensure that our ACA supported ministries and programs have the financial backing to enable them to provide basic daily needs, education or spiritual guidance, just to name a few of the ways our ministries affect people’s lives. It is a very challenging and fulfilling job, just like being a parent. I leave the Development Office at night hoping that our mission has been clearly communicated much like a parent prays that the message and example they give to their children has been heard and understood. In both situations, the outcome has a profound impact on peoples' lives.
860-537-0079
392 South Main Street, Colchester
Mon-Wed 10-5, Thurs & Fri 10-6, Sat 10-3
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Catechist’s Energy Rooted in Faith
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
By Andrea Hoisl
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he is leader, catechist and mentor to more than 200 students in her faith formation programs and is the creative, artistic, musical, animated idea generator for the teachers/volunteers and parents who are also part of her programs. She has a room full of resources she created to enhance the lives of her students. The list includes, Holy Land; Scattegories: Confirmation Edition; Connect Four: Catholic Edition; Build a Church; Wheel of Catholic Fortune, and many others. She is a wife and mother of three grown children and serves as the Director of Faith Formation at All Saints Parish, Somersville. Her name is Susan King and she is working very hard to remind people that the Norwich Diocese and the Catholic Church are alive and well in her corner of our state! Susan has an unending supply of energy that is rooted in deep faith and the overriding belief that the Holy Spirit is currently present in all our lives. You can find her in class helping students and teachers, in the parking lot chatting with parents, at church kneeling in prayer, or at her desk reading a book or reference
Catechist Susan King, standing in middle with her second year Confirmation students at All Saints Parish, Somersville, finds working with students in her parish faith formation programs an opportunity to witness her faith and fulfill God’s will for her life.
materials about the Catholic Church. She has been involved in catechesis for more than 15 years in the diocese and has held her current post at All Saints for 10 years. If you ask anyone who has worked with Susan, they will tell you she is a very kind and gentle soul. Her pastoral approach to catechesis is not only welcoming and inviting, it is also endearing. Her interactions with others are a true Christian witness to her faith and leave people wanting to know more about the faith she emulates. When asked what keeps her motivated, she replies, “…those brief ‘Ah-ha’ moments where I look
deep into the eyes of the students, parents and catechists – that is when I am reassured by God that I am doing His will. That is when I know my purpose as a member of the Body of Christ.” The implementation of the new diocesan curriculum this year has brought about many changes for catechists, students and parents. Although change is never easy, Susan fully embraced the shift from religious education to faith formation. The ability to accompany our students on this part of their lifelong spiritual journey is a challenge for which she is certainly
ready. Her favorite change was starting retreats and service projects at every grade level. “What I truly enjoy is running retreats and youth group gatherings. These opportunities allow for discussion and prayerful refection upon what truly matters to a student,” she said. In a world where what we believe and teach our children about faith is counter-cultural, it’s refreshing to know that there are people who value the morals and ideals of the Church enough to share them freely with others. “My family members remind me constantly how much the parish youth and their parents depend upon my guidance with regards to their faith,” says King. We are all blessed to have Susan helping to do God’s work in her parish and in our diocese!
CATHEDRAL OF SAINT PATRICK “Beautiful Things For For Children” Children” “Beautiful Things
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HOLY WEEK SCHEDULE PALM SUNDAY APRIL 5TH
MASSES 7:30am, 9am, 10:30am AND 5pm
HOLY THURSDAY EVENING APRIL 9TH
MASS OF THE LORD’S SUPPER 7pm CONFESSIONS FOLLOWING MASS
GOOD FRIDAY APRIL 10TH
THE LORD’S PASSION - 3pm CONFESSIONS FOLLOWING SERVICE. STATIONS OF THE CROSS BEGIN AT THE CATHEDRAL OF ST. PATRICK AT 6pm
860-861-4439
See the latest list of retreats on NorwichDiocese.org
APRIL 11TH
CONFESSIONS - 10:AM, 11:00AM ONLY
EASTER VIGIL MASS - 8pm
EASTER SUNDAY APRIL 12TH
THE RESURRECTION OF THE LORD MASSES 7:30am, 9:am, 10:30am AND 5pm
Our Diocese
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.
HOLY SATURDAY
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CT WALKS FOR
HAITI
11th Annual Walkathon Through West Hartford Center
Celebrating 20 Years of Smiles
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
Creamery Brook has set the Standard of Excellence for 20 Years and counting...
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Creamery Brook is proud to be celebrating 20 years of serving our area with the highest standards in independent and assisted living for seniors. Our safe and welcoming community brings smiles to our residents and their families. Why not call for information or a personal tour to experience the difference yourself! Creamery Brook is part of the Continuum of Care at
36 Vina Lane, Brooklyn, CT • 860-779-8700 • www.piercecare.org
FOOD MUSIC CRAFTS SILENT AUCTION AND MUCH MORE!
Saturday April 25th
10:30 am - 2:30 pm St. Peter Claver Church 47 Pleasant Street West Hartford, CT
ctwalksforhaiti.org /CTWALKSFORHAITI
136 Sachem Street Norwich CT 06360 860-889-2374 Fax 860-886-2396
Understanding Our Neighbors in Need By Alice Dugan The job readiness Initiative that advises people with resume building, job readiness skills and job searches. When clients are faced with a crisis, and all the daily needs become a challenge, we provide emergency aid such as clothing, food, utility and rental assistance and much more. Catholic Charities is a resource for wellness. Through our case worker assessments, we will sit and listen with a kind ear. Working together, our clients will forge a success plan and when the plan is implemented, there is empowerment.
Join us in Providing HELP and Creating HOPE in your community, by attending Catholic Charities “Hope Anchors the Soul” 99th Anniversary Gala at Mystic Yachting Center. Tickets to an evening of fun which include dinner, dancing and a silent auction, can be purchased by calling 860-889-8346 ext. 264
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
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April 5 2020
On Palm Sunday, we celebrate the first joy of the season, as we celebrate Our
Lord's triumphant entrance into Jerusalem where he was welcomed by crowds worshiping him and laying down palm leaves before him. It
also marks the beginning of Holy Week, with the greatest tragedy and sorrow of the year.
Our Diocese
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id you know 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? The agency helps families and individuals in crisis. We start with an assessment, provide support, and assist in formulating a success plan. Through the Intensive Case Management Program, case workers use programs as needed to foster the path back to self-sufficiency. It is important to tailor services to better serve the individual. Some of the services we provide our clients are pregnancy support groups addressing issues such as "I'm pregnant, what can I expect"; breastfeeding, and transitioning to solid food. Parenting education classes help parents build coping skills and learn methods for healthy parenting.
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MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
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OUT 99TH ANNIVERSARY
Tickets $100 Cocktail Attire Sponsorship opportunities are still available! For more information, contact Alice Dugan at 860-889-8346 Ext 285 or aliceduganatccfsn.org
APRIL 18, 2020
Cocktails 5pm Bishops Remarks 6pm Dinner 6:15pm Silent auction 5-7pm Dancing 8-10pm
We Are Ambassadors for Christ
As we continue our Lenten journey together and individually, let us remember “We are ambassadors for Christ, as if God were appealing through us.” (2 Corinthians 5:20). Our daily lives, especially during Lent, should reflect our faith in and love for God. These reflections can take the form of prayer, giving alms, and fasting.
Parker
parkermemorials@yahoo.com
The Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti ministry is one of many Diocesan opportunities available to us to be ambassadors for Christ. Our ministry work is carried out in a very poor and densely populated neighborhood in Port-au-Prince, Christ the King. We twin with the Archdiocese of Port-au-Prince, and many parishes both in our Diocese and in others twin with parishes in Haiti. We have a medical clinic and a health program that brings comfort, food, and nutrition to thousands of people who enter our gates each year. Our educational outreach program provides scholarships to more than 200 young people who otherwise could not afford tuition. They are able to attend primary, secondary, and post-secondary schools.
We look for new opportunities to strengthen our efforts, such as offering a course on English as a Second Language and creating internships for post-secondary students and recent graduates. One of our more recent ventures, supported by a grant from the Congregation of the Sisters of St. Joseph, is a business development program offered to women whose families depend upon them to live. Called Advancing Women Now or Famn Avanse Kounyea in Creole, the program provides basic training and skills so these mothers can develop small businesses to support their families.
know life in Haiti sometimes feels like hell, with no hope. But after the coaching sessions, it became clear that I had a choice. I had the power to overcome any obstacles.”
Through our work in Haiti we bring hope to men, women, and children living in poverty and under the daily stress of desperate circumstances. Hope allows Haitians to know God has not forgotten them, and it reminds us that in serving our Haitian brothers and sisters we serve God.
Our Diocese
By Susan Wallace
Throughout Lent, let us especially remember we are ambassadors for Christ and let us show this through our prayers for those seeking One participant shared the God’s help, giving alms to those in following insight: “Prior to this need wherever they may live, and program, I even questioned my faith sacrificial fasting. Please do not thinking that maybe this is how forget our friends in Haiti! God planned my life, because you
To find out how you can help, visit OutreachtoHaiti.org
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Outreach to Haiti
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.”
MARCH 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
Invites you to the 13TH ANNUAL
FOR THE LOVE OF A CHILD GALA Saturday May 2nd, 2020
Most Reverend Max Leroy Mesidor Archbishop of Port-au-Prince
Cocktails at 6:30pm followed by dinner $100 per person RSVP by April 16th to Rosanna Carabelas at 860-800-3602 A Villa Louisa 60 Villa Louisa Rd. Bolton, CT 06043
Benefiting
Children of Haiti
TWENTY-FIFTH ANNUAL DIOCESAN
SECRETARIES MASS
will be held at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick at 12:00 Noon on Tuesday, April 21, 2020 All Faiths Welcome Contact Alice@norwichdiocese.net by April 8, 2020 if you plan on attending the Complimentary Luncheon
Lenten Resources
to Help You Prepare for Easter
W
e prepare for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection through prayer and reflection. We contemplate the promised Second Coming of Jesus as Savior and amid the flurry of preparations, we look for practical ways to observe the holiness of the season in our everyday lives. To help you with this preparation, we have gathered Lenten resources into one convenient online location—NorwichDiocese.org/Lent. Here you will find weekly articles, videos and reflections, along with tools and links to help guide you in the understanding of this holy time. Visit NorwichDiocese.org/Lent often as you make your journey to the foot of the cross.
24 Hours for the Lord Friday, March 20 and Saturday, March 21
Middletown Deanery Saint Sebastian, Middletown. Friday, 6am- 6pm. Saturday, 6am-2pm. New London Deanery St. Agnes, Niantic, Friday, 7am-1pm
St. Mary, New London, Friday, 12-6pm.
St. Michael, Pawcatuck, Saturday, 7am-1pm Sacred Heart, Groton, Saturday, 1-4pm
Norwich Deanery Saints Peter & Paul, Norwich, Friday,1- 9pm. Saturday, 8am- noon. Old Saybrook Deanery On Friday, March 20, each parish in the Old Saybrook Deanery will have
confessions following the Stations of the Cross until all are heard. Please call your local parish to find out their times. Our Lady of Sorrows, Essex Friday,11am- 5pm Saturday, 8am- 2pm. Putnam Deanery Most Holy Trinity, Pomfret Friday, noon- 8pm. Vernon Deanery Saint Bernard, Rockville, Friday, 6am-9pm.
Willimantic Deanery Friday, March 20 St. Columba, Columbia 8-8:45am, 9:30-10am, 121pm, and 4:30-5pm St. Andrew, Colchester, 8:30-9:30am
St. Joseph, Willimantic, from 4-6 pm, 6:30-7:30 pm St. Francis of Assisi, Lebanon, 7:30-8:30pm
Saturday, March 21 St. Joseph, Willimantic, 1:30-3:30 pm Church of the Holy Family, Hebron, 3-4:30pm, 6-6:30pm St. Mary, Coventry, 3-3:45 pm
St. Andrew, Colchester, 3-3:45 pm
St. Francis of Assisi, Lebanon, 4-4:45pm Sagrado Corazon de Jesus, Windham, after 5:30pm Mass Church of the Holy Family, Hebron, 6-6:30pm.
NorwichDiocese.org/Lent
The 13th Annual St. Andrew Church
Passion Play will be presented Wednesday, April 1 Friday, April 4 Saturday, April 5 7:30 pm at St. Andrew Church (Doors open at 7:00 pm) 128 Norwich Ave, Colchester.
No Performance on Thursday the 12th
The play is a musical performance of the life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ. A cast of over 100. A 60-Voice Choir and a 40-Voice Children's Choir. Tickets for the performance are free; however, offerings to help defray production cost will be gratefully accepted. Tickets are available in Colchester at Merciful Saviour, the Parish Office or by phoning Theresa Dzlatbo 860-295-8315. A limited number of tickets are available. No more than 10 tickets per person.
Our Diocese
Pope Francis has invited every parish around the world to open its doors for 24 hours so that the faithful might encounter Jesus Christ anew in the Sacrament of Confession and Eucharistic Adoration.
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Eucharistic Miracles of the World Exhibit Comes to the Diocese
By Deacon Benedict LoCasto
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EXHIBITION SCHEDULE:
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
ver the centuries, there have been countless instances, all over the world, where God has chosen to have the Eucharist transform perceptibl into flesh and blood. That is, the Eucharistic bread manifesting itself physically into human flesh, and the wine into human blood. In fact, there have been over 160 such Eucharistic miracles approved by the Church.
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The Church of the Holy Family in Hebron is hosting the Vatican International Exhibit of Eucharistic Miracles of the World. The exhibit was produced by the Vatican and consists of 140 posters, panels and a PowerPoint presentation documenting instances around the world where the Eucharist has perceivably changed in real human flesh and real human blood. Many of these have been scientifically analyzed, all with the same result - the flesh is always from heart muscle, and the blood type is
Wednesday, March 18th: 6pm – 9pm (Parish Mission: 7-8pm) Thursday, March 19th: 6 -9 pm Friday, March 20th: 9 pm Saturday, March 21st: 9am – 12pm; and 4pm – 8pm Sunday, March 22nd: 8am- 12 pm always AB (the same as the Shroud of Turin)
The Catechism of the Catholic Church paragraph 1374 states, “The mode of Christ's presence under the Eucharistic species is unique. It raises the Eucharist above all the sacraments as "the perfection of the spiritual life and the end to which all sacraments tend. "In the most blessed sacrament of the Eucharist
Location: Church of the Holy "the body and blood, together Family, 185 Church Street, Hebron with the soul and divinity, of our The Exhibit is in the Parish Hall Lord Jesus Christ and, therefore, below the Church. the whole Christ is truly, really, and substantially contained. This The Mission will be in the Church. presence is called ‘real’" There is no charge for the exhibit, Deacon Benedict LoCasto will give but a freewill donation will be a one-hour Parish Mission entitled kindly accepted “The Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist” at 7pm on the first night of the exhibit.
“This is my Body . . . This is my Blood The Real Presence of Christ in the Eucharist A Parish Mission presented by Deacon Benedict LoCasto Wednesday, March 18th, 7pm Church of the Holy Family, Hebron Admission is Free, All are Welcome
NorwichDiocese.org/Lent
Computer programming teen Carlo Acutis to be beatified
The miracle involved the healing of a Brazilian child suffering from a rare congenital anatomic anomaly of the pancreas in 2013. The Medical Council of the Congregation for Saints’ Causes gave a positive opinion of the miracle last November.
Congregation for the Causes of In May 2019, Acutis’ mother, Saints Feb. 21, Acutis can now Antonia Salzano, told CNA Newsroom: “Jesus was the center be beatified. The beatification is expected of his day.” She said that priests to take place in Assisi. Acutis and nuns would tell her that they is currently buried in Assisi’s could tell that the Lord had a special plan for her son. Church of St. Mary Major.
Acutis, who died of leukemia at the age of 15, offered his suffering for the pope and for the Church. He was born in London on May 3, 1991 to Italian parents who soon returned to Milan. He was a pious child, attending daily Mass, frequently praying With Pope Francis’ approval of the rosary, and making weekly the miracle promulgated by the confessions.
“Carlo really had Jesus in his heart, really the pureness … When you are really pure of heart, you really touch people’s hearts,” she said. Exceptionally gifted in working with computers, Acutis developed a website which catalogued Eucharistic miracles. This website was the genesis
NorwichDiocese.org/Lent
of The Eucharistic Miracles of the World, an international exhibition which highlights such occurrences.
Our Diocese
V
atican City (CNA) - The Vatican announced the approval of a miracle attributed to the intercession of Venerable Carlo Acutis, an Italian teenager and computer programmer, who died in 2006.
Photo credit: CarloAcutis.com
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Lenten Bible Study
OUR LADY OF LOURDES YOUTH GROUP PRESENTS
The Eucharist in Scripture
LIVE STATIONS OF THE CROSS FRIDAY, MARCH 27 & APRIL 3
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
OUR LADY OF LOURDES CHURCH 1650 ROUTE 12, GALES FERRY at 7pm.
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The Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich invites you to participate in this sixweek program and discover God’s plan of salvation as it is expressed through the Bible and the Mass. Built around three of Dr. Scott Hahn’s foundational talks: “The Lamb’s Supper,”“The Fourth Cup,” and “Consuming the Word,” The Eucharist in Scripture examines the biblical foundations of the Eucharist and explores the Church’s liturgy as the original context for the books of the Bible. The program includes prayerful Scripture reading and interpretation, Adoration and Benediction of the
Blessed Sacrament at each session. This free program is facilitated by one of our parish catechists, Mona Anne Niedbala. Materials will be provided, including access to online videos for each session. Where: St. Patrick Cathedral Hall, Norwich
GLAUDE
PLAYS
GLASS
When: Wednesday March 4, 11, 18, 25, and April 1 Time:7-8:30pm. To register please call the Cathedral Rectory at 860-889-8441.
A MEDITATIVE RECITAL OF PIANO WORKS BY THE AMERICAN COMPOSER AND MUSICAL GIANT
PHILIP GLASS JESSE N. GLAUDE, PIANO
date
time
3/29 2PM NorwichDiocese.org/Lent
location
OUR LADY OF LOURDES 1650 ROUTE 12 GALES FERRY, CT 06335
he Connecticut Primaries are just a few weeks away. On April 28th we will have the opportunity to cast our vote for the candidate that we feel best represents us. The United States Conference of Catholic Bishops (USCCB) has provided some guidance on the forming of our consciences. Here are some highlights from one of the USCCB Documents on Faithful Citizenship.
FCC News Desk We vote because we are citizens. But we vote conscientiously because we are people of faith. Our consciences are formed through studying Scripture and the teachings of the Church, examination of the facts, and prayerful reflection. While there are many moral issues before us, every issue is not equal. ★ Issues that directly affect human lives—such as abortion and euthanasia—are fundamental and demand serious consideration. ★ Our Constitution heralds religious liberty in the First Amendment, yet increasingly people of faith are having to fight to retain this basic right. ★ There is a move in the nation to redefine marriage. The marriage of a man and a woman is the foundation of the family and an essential core element of a flourishing society. ★ The growing disparity between rich and poor means most of the world’s resources are in the hands of a small percentage of its people. The federal budget is a moral document and must prioritize the poorest and most vulnerable among us. ★The millions of undocumented persons living in the United States deserve our compassion. There is an immigration problem, and we need a humane solution to it. ★ War, terror, and violence have caused thousands of lost lives. We must work for just solutions to conflict in the Holy Land, throughout the Middle East, and beyond.
As Catholic citizens, we should remember three things: 1. Respect for the dignity of each person is the core of Catholic social and moral teaching. This is our most basic principle. 2. We focus on the common good, not our own personal interests. We ask, how can we make the world a better place? Not, how can I improve my own personal situation? 3. We have a responsibility— a true obligation—to form our consciences and participate in the civic life of this nation. Here are some ways to do that. ★ Be true to the teachings of the Church. Read Scripture, the Catechism of the Catholic Church, teachings from the Holy See, and the statements of our bishops. Read Forming Consciences for Faithful Citizenship at faithfulcitizenship.org. We need to be sure that our reasoning and judgments are well-grounded in our faith. ★ Stay well-informed about issues through judicious and reasoned engagement with the immense world of information in the twenty-first century. Just as all issues are not equal, all sources are not equal. For example, an individual’s blog—while potentially very insightful—may not have the same fidelity to factual truth as our media sources that hold themselves to professional standards of journalistic ethics, imperfect though they are. ★ Remain in contact with our representatives in local, state,
and federal government. Our responsibility to form our consciences leads to an obligation to be active citizens. We communicate regularly with our leaders—not only during election seasons. ★ Engage in reasoned, compassionate, and loving dialogue with others— Catholics and non-Catholics alike— about the issues and choices that we are facing as a nation. Remember that we are called first to witness the Gospel, and through that witness, to share our social teaching, to highlight the moral dimensions of issues, and to participate in debate on public policy. ★ The dual calling of faith and citizenship lies at the heart of what it means to be a Catholic in the United States. We stand on the shoulders of many Catholics who have gone before us, who have helped the United States of America become a better country because of their faith in a loving God.
We care. Therefore, we vote.
Visit FaithfulCitizenship.org
FUNERAL HOMES
12 Ocean Avenue 12 Ocean Avenue New London, New London, CTCT 443-1871 443-1871
Grand 48 48 Grand Street Street Niantic, CT Niantic, CT 739-6112 739-6112
www.neilanfuneralhome.com FUNERAL HOMES
12 Ocean Avenue New London, CT 443-1871
48 Grand Street Niantic, CT 739-6112
www.neilanfuneralhome.com
Our Diocese
T
Catholics Care. Catholics Vote.
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PILGRIMAGE TO POLAND
Monsignor Les Janik invites you on a Pilgrimage to Northern Poland
August 23-31, 2020
An Education You Can Believe In.
Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community. Embracing Service. Living Faith.
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
Supported financially and spiritually by 10 parishes in the Middletown Deanery. Currently the only regional Pre-K to 8th grade school in the Norwich Diocese.
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St. John Paul II Regional Catholic School 87 South Main Street / Middletown, CT 06457 Telephone: 860-347-2978 / www.jpii.org
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
We will visit: Warsaw- capital of Poland, Niepokalanow- city of the Immaculata founded by St. Maksymilian Kolbe, Glogowiec – family home of St. Faustyna Kowalska, Lichen – Basilica of Our Lady, Torun – birthplace of Nicolaus Copernicus, Gdansk – major seaport of Baltic Sea, Gietrzwald– Shrine of Our Lady, Malbork - Castle of the Teutonic Order among other interesting places. The cost of the pilgrimage is $2,880 per person/double occupancy. The cost includes airfare, hotel, bus and tour guide, breakfast and dinner. For more information, please go online: johnpaultours.com/poland 2020 or call 860-887-1030.
Registration is ongoing, please call for information
St. Joseph School 25 Squire St New London, CT 06320 Phone: 860-442-1720
Pope Francis @Pontifex Loneliness is not overcome by closing in on ourselves, but by crying out to the Lord, for the Lord hears the cry of those who find themselves alone.
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Our Diocese
Sacred Heart School, Groton Gail Kingston, Principal
50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton, CT 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org/school
Sacred Heart School, Taftville
Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville, CT
Phone: 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org
St. 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.
Giving Tree helps students fill backpacks for the less fortunate
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
By Mary Anne Sherman
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H
ow do you bring religion lessons to life for young children? This year for an Advent religion lesson on giving and sharing with children less fortunate, kindergarten teacher Trisha Fleury asked her class at Sacred Heart School in Groton if they wanted to collect items to fill backpacks for needy children. The first step was to bring the ideas down to their level. “We had to discuss what fortunate means. We talked about all the things that we have and that some children might not have those things.” After learning that not every child had things that we take for granted, like warm pajamas and a toothbrush to brush their teeth, the children were eager to participate in the collection. Mrs. Fleury and her assistant, Mrs. Jenn Babb, created a Giving Tree in the hallway that people could pull off ornaments from and donate the item written on them. The entire Sacred Heart community came together and took part. School families and church parishioners also generously St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic Ian M. Holland, Principal 35 Valley St, Willimantic, CT Phone: 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org
gave items. The class was able to fill 24 backpacks. Each backpack contained pajamas, a book, a small stuffed animal, a fleece blanket, and
a toothbrush and toothpaste. The backpacks were donated to the Child and Family Agency of Southeastern Connecticut.
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
Superintendent's Office
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
TELEVISION MASS
My Dear Friends,
During the month of March, we celebrate the holy season of Lent. Lent is a time of true self-reflection when it comes to our faith. We teach our students to take (age-appropriate) fasting seriously.
Last year, in a weekly Lenten video series from the Office of Faith Events, Bishop Cote summed up the origins of Catholics fasting during Lent. He explained that when the Code of Canon Law was established in 1017, it was clear that Fridays had to be meatless. “In 1966”, he went on to say, “St. Paul VI tweaked that rule, emphasizing that perhaps meatless days were not penitential for some. He encouraged the Church to seek things that are more sacrificial. For some, meatless Fridays would be sacrificial, for others they would not.” St. Paul VI encouraged Catholics to perhaps do acts of kindness, such as bringing food to a shut-in, visiting a prisoner, giving up something we really love. Bishop Cote explained that the reason Fridays are the days for special sacrifices is because Our Lord died on a Friday, and whatever sacrifice we engage in, it is to bring us closer to the Lord and to recognize that what He has done was out of love for us. We instill in our students this very message, as when we sacrifice, we show our love for Jesus.
Creighton University faculty members shed some wonderful light on this subject. They make the point that if we (and our students) consider Lent as an "ordeal" or a time we dread in some way, then we have already pre-disposed ourselves to not get very much out of it. We strive to show our students that their sense of anticipation for the Risen Christ will be made easier if they begin to imagine that God wants to give us the gift of His grace. If our young people focus on the grace of God which He bestows upon us during this solemn and holy season, then they are more likely to look forward to giving things up and/or doing something extra to enhance the quality of their worship. These are words of wisdom for us to live by as well. As always, thank you for the tremendous support you have shown us every year, so that we may further enrich the lives of our students during Lent and all of our holy seasons.
APRIL 1
10:00am Father Ray Introvigne Channel 11, WCCT Channel 20, WTXX Channel 59, WCTX PRAYER INTENTION We pray that the Church in China may persevere in its faithfulness to the Gospel and grow in unity.
God Bless!
Henry Fiore, Jr.
Superintendent of Schools
- Pope Francis
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
mily, Baltic
C, Principal CT
St. John Paul II School, Middletown
www.norwichdso.org
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Spirol International Expands its Philanthropy to the SJS Community By Meredith Vernott
S
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
t. Joseph School (SJS) in North Grosvenordale is pleased to announce the Charitable Foundation of the Spirol International Corporation, headquartered in Dayville, will be donating 10 scholarships in the amount of $1,000 each for qualified families to help offset the cost of tuition for the 2020-21 school year. This latest philanthropic gift is the third in a series of recent donations from Spirol to help the SJS community over the past two years.
“Words cannot adequately describe my sincerest gratitude to our friends at Spirol for providing tuition assistance to families in need,” David Sizemore, principal of the school, said. “Unfortunately, we live in a time where many Catholic elementary schools are struggling to keep their doors open due to rising costs, so having a partner like Spirol to help us continue our long legacy of providing a quality, faith-based education in a caring, respectful, and nurturing environment is absolutely essential
scholarships, SJS will be better positioned to carry out its mission “The hope is, through these for many more families and many scholarships, families who might more years to come.” otherwise not think it possible to afford SJS will seek out Spirol’s first donation to SJS came the educational opportunities in the spring of 2018 when it gave provided by this wonderful school a $25,000 grant for the purchase community,” said Jim Shaw, a of iPads for students in grades 4-8. member of the Spirol Charitable The school was able to expand that Foundation. “Perhaps our financial program earlier this year to also support will help make a difference include students in grade 3. in the lives of children and that “I cannot thank Spirol International through an increase in enrollment enough for their generous donation made possible through these to fund our iPad program,” said Rick to our future.”
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 860-889-7374 • www.svdpp.org
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L-R: Amelia Hull, Katie Atwood, Rick Lepore, Kiera MacKenzie, Kylie Cummings and Clayton Lehmann
new equipment and technology for the room, it also helped to pay for a part-time learning specialist for the 2019-20 school year.
to provide Title 1 and speech related services to our students. Additionally, our after-school clubs gather in the learning center “The Bishop Hines Learning virtually every day of the week to Center has had a tremendous enhance the student experience at impact on our school community,” SJS.” During the summer of 2019, Spirol Sizemore said. “Not only are To find out more information about awarded SJS an additional grant students with learning needs able registering your son or daughter of $30,000 in order to refurbish to receive one- on- one assistance for the 2020-21 school year, please classroom space into a new from Mrs. Nancy Beeman, our contact SJS at (860) 923-2090 or learning center, now known as the learning specialist, we also email dsizemore@sjschoolng. Bishop Vincent J. Hines Learning have a professional space for com. Additional information about Center. The grant not only funded our colleagues from Thompson the school can be found on its
website, schoolofstjoseph.org. You can also schedule a guided tour as well as have your student(s) spend a Shadow Day at SJS. The next open house for families paired with brunch will be Sunday, March 29th from 8:30-11:30 am. Brunch is complementary and will run simultaneously with guided tours offered by current SJS families as well as faculty members. Finally, the Easter Bunny will also be there for special photo opportunities.
OUR YOUTH
Lepore, director of technology at SJS. “The iPad program here at SJS has been a blessing to the development of our students’ ever building knowledge of technology. It is great preparation for them in their future education.”
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St. John School Students Receive Top Scholarships to Xavier High School By Maria Coffey
S
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
t. John School, Old Saybrook is honored to announce that 8th grade students Ryan Coffey and Juan Pacheco-O’Donnell attained the top and second place scores on the Xavier High School entrance exam this year, receiving the Brother Robert C.F.X. Honors Scholarship, and the Bishop Vincent Hines Honors Memorial Scholarship, respectively.
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that score in the 95th percentile and above. According to Xavier High School Admissions Director Nicholas Grasso, there were 15 Ryken Scholars recognized this year out of almost 250 students.
Principal Mother Elaine Moorcroft noted, “We strive to provide an excellent academic and spiritual education at St. John School. Our mission is to educate the whole child. This is a wonderful Each boy also was named a Ryken achievement, as well as a testament Scholar, an honor given to students to our school and dedicated
teachers. I wish Ryan and Juan every success as they continue their high school education.” Saint John School is a fully accredited Pre-K to grade 8 school and is known for excellent academics, spiritual growth and building confidence. For more information or to register for an open house, visit SaintJohnSchoolOS.org.
Juan Pacheco-O’Donnell and Ryan Coffey
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Xavier Junior Ring Mass A Rite of Passage By Jeff Otterbein It is a very good reminder that you are still in the Xavier community, and the passion of Xavier High School.”
When Josh Aresco looks down at his ring, many things come to mind. “Getting the ring means a lot,” Aresco said. “My dad graduated from here, and he still has his ring.
Lord’s love for us all.
From left to right: Tim Gagliano, Brian Satrohan, Colby Dahl, Cameron The Satrohan brothers, Anthony Kuselias, Ethan Cook and Anthony Satrohan and Brian, had the privilege of receiving theirs on the same day. They each spoke about the ring symbolizing the community feel of Xavier, the bond and the larger family.
Down the road many will remember this All of that fits into day. The Reverend what Reverend Eric Bedard, who Bedard said in officiated the his message to Junior Ring Mass, the students. He told the family, spoke of the love The program cover for friends and juniors and fidelity that the Mass was designed gathered, that he rings can represent remembered when by junior Aiden Donnelly and in the case of he got his class ring these junior rings, 24 years ago. He the love for the school, the love for still has it and in anticipation of the each other, the faculty’s love for the Mass he looked at it. students and most importantly, the After the Mass, many gathered for a reception hosted by the Home & School Association.
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OUR YOUTH
A
s the Xavier High School juniors settled into their seats after receiving their rings, many did what any of us would do: they opened the boxes to see the symbol of their hard work so far during their high school years. They are headed for their senior year and the rings mark another step in their journey.
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Diocesan Youth Shine on the Basketball Courts
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
St. Joseph JV boys
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By Liza Roach
O
St. Patrick JV girls
ver 80 middle-school student athletes representing nine Diocesan Catholic Schools showed determination, skill and team spirit as they competed in the Diocesan Catholic School Basketball Tournament Feb. 28-March 1 at St. Bernard School in Montville. “It was wonderful to witness the enthusiasm of our student athletes in wanting to help their schools shine on the basketball court,” said Liza Roach, youth and young adult minister for the diocese, who oversaw the annual tournament for the Diocesan Office of Faith Events.
“The tournament helps players build good sportsmanship and develop the value of working together as a team. It was also nice to see parents valuing their children for who they are as individuals and not on how they performed on the courts.” Fifteen games were played throughout the tournament in four separate categories: girls’ junior varsity and varsity; and boys’ junior varsity and varsity. Emerging as the winners of the girls’ junior varsity game was St. Patrick School, Norwich over St. James, Danielson while the St. James girls’ varsity
St James Varsity girls
St. Patrick Varsity boys team claimed victory over St. Joseph, New London. In the boys’ junior varsity category, St. Joseph, New London ousted St. James. St. Patrick School also won the boys’ varsity game against St. Bernard, Montville. Other schools participating in the tournament included: Sacred Heart School, Taftville; St. Michael, Pawcatuck; St. John School, Old Saybrook; St. John Paul II School, Middletown; and St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic. The St. James School Cheerleaders were also on hand to root for their team and add
more spirit to a tournament bursting with enthusiasm among excited fans. “The competition was tough and the games were great,” Roach said. “Congratulations to all the Norwich Catholic Schools for their great play at the Diocesan Catholic School Basketball Tournament.” The champion teams went on to represent the Diocese of Norwich in the New England CYO Tournament in Burlington, VT, March 27-29, where they competed against some of the best Catholic school teams in New England, added Roach.
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Help Children Connect to Their Faith Through the Lives of the Saints
Fai th Sparks
By Mary-Jo McLaughlin
MARCH 2020 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | www.norwichdiocese.org
my father always credited to St. Jude.
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s a young man in his 20s, my father lost both of his legs in an industrial accident. As it was the early 1940s and medicine was not as advanced as today, his doctors told him it was unlikely he would ever walk again. But, my father had faith in St. Jude, the patron saint for hopeless causes, to whom he prayed each day, and before the year ended, he was surprising his doctors and walking on two artificial prosthetics – a feat
My father’s love and devotion for St. Jude grew. When my older brother was born, my dad insisted he be named Michael Jude. A picture of Saint Jude hung in our house, always prompting me to wonder how that ‘tongue of fire’ hovered over his head and why he carried what looked like a gold coin of Jesus on his chest. We grew up listening to stories about St. Jude as well as other heroes of the faith, as my father liked to call the saints. The Six O’clock Saints book series by Joan Windham was a staple in our house. When one of us seven children acted up, my parents would suggest we go read another chapter from the book and try to emulate the men and women we read about. That book series, and the stories they told of ordinary imperfect people whose lives were touched and changed by Jesus, stayed with me as I developed in my faith. I was St. Joan of Arc being burned at the stake as I played in the back yard with my siblings. I prayed to the saints to
help me pass a test at school. It was a family event to huddle around the television watching a rerun of the classic movie Song of Bernadette. I was born on Christmas Day so my parents named me Mary Joseph, after Our Lady and St. Joseph. And when I got mad as a child or fought with my siblings, how many times did I hear my parents remind me to go to my room and reflect on my ‘heavenly’ friends for whom I was named.
on their feast day and do something special afterward, like going out to breakfast or lunch, or treat them to their favorite meal and dessert. One of my co-workers sends her godchildren a card remembering them on their feast day. When your children face difficulties, encourage them to pray to their saint for inspiration. Purchase a children’s book on the lives of the saints and read their stories as part of your child’s bedtime ritual.
At my Catholic grammar school, my classmates and I were honored on the feast day of the saint for whom we were named. There were special prayers and stories told about that saint, and as I recall, a free night of homework to celebrate the occasion. While I knew I would never grow up to be a saint, these celebrations and stories about these holy men and women, and the virtues they extolled, encouraged me always to try to do my best.
Teaching children and young adults about the saint for whom they were named at baptism or the name taken when they receive the Sacrament of Confirmation is a positive way to connect them with their faith. Many saints led challenging lives and overcame temptation through prayer and acts of charity. Those are important virtues for our youth to emulate while also helping them to understand that God can always use the messiness or difficulties of our lives for a greater purpose.
Consider celebrating the feast day of the saint for whom your child or grandchild is named. Go to Mass
For more ideas on how to incorporate stories about the lives of the saints into family activities, or for ideas on books about saints, visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks
Ignite Your Faith.
The Patron Saints of the Norwich Diocese, Saints Patrick and Anne
T
he patron saints of the Norwich Diocese, Saints Patrick and Anne have much to teach us about perseverance in the faith.
DATE ! E H T E SAV Saint Bernard School St. Patrick was born in either Britain or Scotland and as a youth didn’t give much thought to God in his life. At age 16, he was kidnapped and taken as a slave to Ireland. There, he became dependent on God and developed his faith. He eventually escaped enslavement and traveled to France where he entered a monastery. In a dream he heard the Irish people calling him to return to Ireland, which he did and is responsible for the conversion to Christianity of most of the country’s inhabitants. Legend has it that Patrick taught the Irish the faith using the three-leaf clover to illustrate the Trinity. His feast day is celebrated on March 17 and he is the patron saint of Ireland and engineers.
“Christ with me, Christ before me, Christ behind me, Christ within me, Christ beneath me, Christ above me, Christ at my right, Christ at my left.”
- Saint Patrick
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. LEARN ABOUT: & Saint Bernard’s College Preparatory Curriculum & Applying to Saint Bernard School & Our Tailored Tuition Program & Saint Bernard’s Campus with a full tour
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OUR FAITH
St. Anne is the mother of Mary, and the grandmother of Jesus. She and her husband, Joachim, were thought to be barren, when after 20 years of marriage, Anne conceived and gave birth to Mary. Legend has it that an angel appeared to Anne telling her that her child would be ‘blessed by all the world.’ Anne and Joachim were devout parents who steeped their daughter in the Jewish faith that she would pass on to her son, Jesus. Her feast day is celebrated on July 26. She is the patron saint of mothers, grandmothers, and pregnant and barren women.
Saint Bernard School is a place for your child to learn, grow and discover!
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