Four County Catholic March 2022

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

Volume 34 • Number 3 • MARCH 2022 • SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

Shine your light for the world to see

In This Issue page

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“It is critical for Catholics to proclaim the sanctity and intrinsic value of every human life in the public arena.”

Christopher Healy, Executive Director of the Connecticut Catholic Conference, a sponsor of Connecticut’s First March for Life taking place in Hartford on Wednesday, March 23.

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

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

25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613

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“We see in Jesus the supreme model of one consecrated to God. Those who are called to consecrated or religious life are called to follow our Lord in that total consecration to God.” Father Jacinto Mary Chapin, FI, homilist for the Mass of Thanksgiving for the Gift of Consecrated Life held on February 6th at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick.

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DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

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MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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“Can We Make Lent Fun? Admittedly, on the surface that does not sound like there is any room for fun or spiritual lighthearted joy, but I would like to dig a little deeper.”

Andrea Hoisl, Director of the Office of Faith Events, asking a key question on how we might make our Lenten practices more enjoyable.

ON THE COVER “You are the light of the world. A city set on a mountain cannot be hidden. Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house. Just so, your light must shine before others, that they may see your good deeds and glorify your heavenly Father”.

(Matthew 5:13-16)

The Hartford Courant, 285 Broad Street, Hartford, CT 060115 EDITORIAL & ADVERTISING SUBMISSION DETAILS AND DEADLINES Deadline for advertising and editorial is the first Monday of the previous month.

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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.

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We Can Help

Podemos ayudar

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

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

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

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

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 BISHOP OF NORWICH

You Are the Light of the World My dear brothers and sisters in Christ, The Holy Season of Lent invites us to extend ourselves in preparation for Easter through prayer, fasting, and charity – The Three Pillars of Lent.

These pillars, or practices, help us contemplate God’s overwhelming mercy as we journey to the cross. Our 40 days of reflection allow for us the time we need to patiently prepare for the ultimate act of divine love, sacrifice, and mercy as Jesus laid down his life for our salvation.

This opportunity to be repentant and to think and act compassionately toward each other very often takes us to a place of discomfort.

In my February column, I shared that, “Love, willing the good of the other, is sacrifice.” The sacrifices we make during this Lent, the things we choose to giveup or the actions we take for others might not, by design, be easy. They are meant to stretch us, humble us, or make us mindful of our shortcomings.

We are reminded of the sacrificial love of Jesus’ passion every time we look upon a Crucifix.

Light doesn’t exist for itself. It helps us to see. We are called to make God the Father known, to allow the love of Jesus Christ to shine forth, and to become suitable temples for the Holy Spirit. We are tasked with living our lives in the joy and freedom that comes as a benefit of following our Lord.

We, as followers of Christ, do not exist for ourselves. We have the responsibility to shine a light on what is beautiful and reveal what is ugly.

As Jesus instructed, “Nor do they light a lamp and then put it under a bushel basket; it is set on a lampstand, where it gives light to all in the house.”

We have a unique opportunity this Lent to be that light. I would like all of you to join me in attending Connecticut’s first official March for Life event on March 23, 2022, at the State Capitol in Hartford.

Archbishop Blair of the Archdiocese of Hartford, Bishop Caggiano of the Diocese of Bridgeport, and I support this historic undertaking and are hoping that it will be an overwhelming success.

True to our living discipleship, the March will be a time for Connecticut Many in this modern culture want citizens to express their support for the faith and religion to be a private matter. life of the unborn and their opposition However, in Matthew’s account of the to euthanasia and physician-assisted Sermon on the Mount, Jesus compares suicide. his followers to light. (Matthew 5:13-16) Although the issues the March for Life “You are the light of the world. A city set will address are controversial in our society, people of faith must speak the on a mountain cannot be hidden.”

truth and follow the Gospel imperative to be a light unto the world.

We will be joined by our brothers and sisters of all faiths in this major demonstration. We must send a strong message to our elected officials of our commitment to uphold the sacred dignity of every person, for the simple fact that all life is a gift from God from conception until natural death.

This Lent may our spiritual journey of renewal bring a heightened awareness of the Lord’s unconditional and unyielding love for us. Lent is our fresh start to vigorously live our faith with love and charity to our family members, friends, neighbors -- in short, to everyone.

My prayers are with you to find the strength to continue shining Christ’s light at a time when the light of faith is so needed.

Through a well-lived Lent, may we come to the glory of Easter.

Sincerely yours in the Light of Christ,

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich 3

THE MOST REVEREND

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LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

Tú Eres la Luz del Mundo Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, El Tiempo Santo de Cuaresma nos invita a ofrecernos en preparación para la Pascua a través de la oración, el ayuno y la caridad – Los Tres Pilares de la Cuaresma.

“ Ustedes son la luz del mundo: ¿cómo se puede esconder una ciudad asentada sobre un monte?”

La luz no existe por sí misma. Nos ayuda a ver. Estamos llamados a dar a conocer a Dios Padre, a hacer resplandecer el amor de Jesucristo y a convertirnos en templos Estos pilares, o prácticas, nos ayudan a idóneos para el Espíritu Santo. Tenemos contemplar la inmensa misericordia de la tarea de vivir nuestras vidas en el gozo Dios mientras caminamos hacia la cruz. y la libertad que viene como un beneficio Nuestros 40 días de reflexión nos dan el de seguir a nuestro Señor. tiempo que necesitamos para prepararnos pacientemente para el último acto de Nosotros, como seguidores de Cristo, amor, sacrificio y misericordia divinos no existimos para nosotros mismos. cuando Jesús entregó su vida por nuestra Tenemos la responsabilidad de iluminar lo que es hermoso y revelar lo que es feo. salvación.

Esta oportunidad de arrepentirnos y de pensar y actuar compasivamente unos con otros muy a menudo nos lleva a un lugar de incomodidad.

En mi columna de febrero, compartí que “Amar, querer el bien del otro, es sacrificio”. Los sacrificios que hacemos durante esta Cuaresma, las cosas a las que elegimos renunciar o las acciones que tomamos por los demás pueden, no ser fáciles. Están destinados a humillarnos o hacernos conscientes de nuestras deficiencias.

Cada vez que miramos un Crucifijo se nos recuerda el amor sacrificial de la pasión de Jesús.

Como Jesús instruyó: “Tampoco se enciende una lámpara y luego se pone debajo de un celemín; se pone sobre un candelero, donde alumbre a todos en la casa.”

Tenemos una oportunidad única de ser esa luz esta Cuaresma. Me gustaría que todos ustedes se unan a mí para asistir al primer evento oficial de la Marcha por la Vida de Connecticut el 23 de marzo de 2022, en el Capitolio del Estado en Hartford.

El Arzobispo Blair de la Arquidiócesis de Hartford, el Obispo Caggiano de la Diócesis de Bridgeport y yo apoyamos esta misión histórica y esperamos que sea un gran éxito.

Fieles a nuestro discipulado vivo, la Muchos en esta cultura moderna quieren Marcha será un momento para que los que la fe y la religión sean un asunto ciudadanos de Connecticut expresen privado. Sin embargo, en el relato de su apoyo a la vida de los no nacidos y Mateo del Sermón del Monte, Jesús su oposición a la eutanasia y al suicidio compara a sus seguidores con la luz. asistido por un médico.

(Mateo 5:13-16)

Aunque los temas que abordará la Marcha por la Vida son controversiales en nuestra sociedad, las personas de fe deben decir la verdad y seguir el imperativo del Evangelio para ser una luz para el mundo.

Nos acompañarán nuestros hermanos y hermanas de todas las religiones en esta importante manifestación.

Debemos enviar un fuerte mensaje a nuestros funcionarios electos de nuestro compromiso de defender la sagrada dignidad de cada persona, por el simple hecho de que toda vida es un regalo de Dios desde la concepción hasta la muerte natural.

Que esta Cuaresma nuestro viaje espiritual de renovación traiga una mayor conciencia del amor incondicional e inquebrantable del Señor por nosotros.

La Cuaresma es nuestro nuevo comienzo para vivir vigorosamente nuestra fe con amor y caridad hacia nuestros familiares, amigos, vecinos, en resumen, hacia todos.

Mis oraciones están con ustedes para encontrar la fuerza para continuar brillando con la luz de Cristo en un momento en que la luz de la fe es tan necesaria.

Que a través de una Cuaresma bien vivida lleguemos a la gloria de la Pascua.

Sinceramente en la Luz de Cristo,

Obispo de Norwich

Vocations Corner 4th Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

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From ‘Ashes to Life,’ Lent is a Time for Spiritual Renewal

ur Lenten journey began with Ash Wednesday on March 2.

Dharen Brochero

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Catholics from throughout our diocese came to Ash Wednesday Masses and services and were marked with ashes.

These ashes represented our mortality. They reminded us that we are dust and to dust we will return.

Yet, as Pope Francis reminds us, “upon this dust of ours, God blew his Spirit of life.”

Our Lenten journey, which started with the ashes of Ash Wednesday represents this passage from death to life.

Ruben Garcia Sanchez

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

We are dust, yes, but dust that has been loved and called into life by God.

Thus, Lent is a time to remember that the goal of our existence is sanctity: a movement from dust to life.

This movement is captured well in the stories of the saints. It is captured especially in the story of Simon Peter from a few Sundays ago, when the Lord called Simon, the fisherman, into a new life of “catching men”(v.10).

“This is what he does in each of us,” Pope Francis said in his remarks on

this gospel passage. “He asks us to welcome him on the boat of our life, in order to set out anew with him and to sail a new sea, one which proves to be full of surprises.”

Only with God’s help can we embark on the journey of faith that leads us to new life.

Only with God’s help can we accept our true calling and follow the path that leads us to God.

This is why the ashes of Ash Wednesday are typically traced on our foreheads in the sign of the cross. They represent more than just our mortality or our finitude. They also represent our repentance, our need for God’s grace and mercy, and our hope for eternal life in Christ.

Again, as Pope Francis tweeted a couple years ago: “Lent is a time of grace, a time for recognizing that our lowly ashes are loved by God and for letting God gaze upon us with love, and in this way change our lives. We were put in this world to go from ashes to life.” The key to this change in life is recognizing both our ashes and His love in the Lord’s personal address to each of us.

Simon Peter, we recall, was surprised and uncertain before this call from

the Lord. Perhaps the knowledge of his own inadequacy tempted him to reject it. “Depart from me, for I am a sinful man, O Lord” (v. 8).

And yet, as Pope Francis reminds us, Simon Peter says these words on his knees before the One whom by this point he recognizes as ‘Lord.’

It’s not that Simon Peter merely recognized his own sinfulness, his ‘ashes,’ so to speak, and that’s it.

But that he recognized himself to be before the One who had drawn close to him still, despite his sinfulness, despite his failings, despite his ‘ashes.’ For him, as it was, is, and forever will be for us: it is all grace, all mercy, all the time.

From ashes to life, the Lord calls each of us to new life in order to become witnesses to God’s goodness and mercy in the world.

In what ways is the Spirit of God opening a new horizon before you now to cooperate in his mission?

How might you place greater trust in God’s word and the plan that God has for your life this Lent?

Alexander Pandolfe

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Julian Cuervo

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Eric Hosmer

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

“Do not be afraid”, the Lord says to us.

“From now on you will be …..”.

- Father Jonathan Ficara, Director of Vocations

Mark Johnson

1st Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

MONTHLY

Holy Hour

for Vocations

March 17, 6 PM – St. Mary, Portland April 21, 6 PM – St. Mary, Coventry

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

God-Calls.com

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Deacon Jacob Ramos

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Ready to Kick Off 2022 Campaign

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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ach month I look forward to reading Bishop Cote’s letter in the Four County Catholic and January’s did not disappoint. As we prepare to begin our 2022 Annual Catholic Appeal, One Faith, One Family, Bishop Cote’s words resonate strongly with me.

In discussing what the world needs now, he aptly cites St. Paul’s First Letter to the Corinthians famous passage, “Love is patient, love is kind” 1 Corinthians 13:4 to encourage us all not to lose hope in these uncertain times, but to rather have faith that with our Lord’s help, we will each “love your neighbor as yourself.”

The Annual Catholic Appeal provides us with that opportunity: the chance to support our many ministries who are doing the work of Christ each day. Whether it be educating our seminarians, providing food or essentials to those in need, connecting with those searching for spiritual guidance, supporting a person facing an illness, or instilling our faith in our children, the work of our ministries is endless and

reaches many.

As Bishop Cote said, “It is wise to remember that we are all children of the same Father.

He calls us to live as brothers and sisters. Our personal interaction with others is our chance to live out the love that Saint Paul describes.” In keeping with our highest calling, to love our God above all else and in turn to be the hands and feet of Christ, we come together each year as a family of faith to support one another through our donations to the Annual Catholic Appeal.

This year, the ACA will be launched on the weekend of March 19-20, when a heartwarming video of Bishop Cote working at St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich will be shown in all parishes. The following weekend, parishioners will be asked to make their commitment to the 2022 ACA.

Parishioners received a letter from Bishop Cote and pledge envelopes in midFebruary and are asked to bring completed cards to their church during the weekend of March 26-27. For those parishioners who did not receive a packet in the mail, they can find pledge envelopes and brochures at their church and can also contact Heather Harris at our office to be added to our database.

We pray that the generosity that so many showed the ACA last year will continue into 2022. It is truly miraculous that in the midst of many continuing challenges, our diocese was able to come together as One Faith, One Family last year and exceeded our monetary goal by 14%.

As I drive through the diocese, I often see heart signs thanking our essential workers for the care they have shown throughout the past two years. We all are very thankful to all those who

have continued to do their jobs whether they be doctors, nurses, first responders, teachers, grocery workers and delivery services, they have all made their own sacrifices for the betterment of others.

It struck me the other day on one such ride that we should also thank all of our “essential donors,” for each of you have also sacrificed by sharing your hard-earned money with the ACA. Each one of you is truly recognized and appreciated as being essential. We cannot achieve our goal of spreading the love of Christ without each of you.

Thank you for your continued assistance. Please keep the ACA and the many ministries it supports in your prayers. If you need more information, please see our website at NorwichDioceseDevelopment. org or contact our ACA Campaign Manager, Heather Harris, at hharris@norwichdiocese.net or at (860) 886-1928. May God continue to bless us all.

In Memoriam Sister Anila “Tessy Kuriakose” Puthanthara September 10, 1982 – February 7, 2022

Norwich Diocesan Cemeteries SAINT MARY & ST. JOSEPH CEMETERY 815 Boswell Ave., Norwich - 860-887-1019 SACRED HEART CEMETERY Harland Road, Taftville - 860-887-1019 SAINT PATRICK CEMETERY Depot Road, Uncasville - 860-887-1019 SAINT MARY CEMETERY Community Mausoleum Available 600 Jefferson Ave., New London - 860-887-1019 RESURRECTION CEMETERY Route 145, Westbrook - 860-887-1019 SACRED HEART CEMETERY Wauregan Road, Wauregan - 860-887-1019 ALL HALLOWS CEMETERY Green Hallow Road, Moosup - 860-887-1019

The Church, through its 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 the deceased benefit from our prayers

as a Registered Nurse. She enjoyed helping others and she had a personal kindness that was truly gentle and caring.

Sister Anila was very devoted to her religious life.

She is survived by her parents, a brother and sister-in-law, a sister and brother-in-law , three nieces, two nephews, and the Sisters of the Adoration of the Blessed Sacrament.

A Funeral Mass was held at St. James Church, Danielson on February 11. Sister Anila’s body was returned to her home in India for Burial.

Condolences and donations made in Sr. Anila’s memory can be sent to the Sisters of Adoration Corp, 26 Franklin Street, Danielson. CT. 06239.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Sister Anila Puthanthara (Tessy Kuriakose), 39, of Danielson, CT, formerly of India, passed away unexpectedly on Monday, February 7, 2022 in Chaplin, CT. She was born on September 10, 1982 in India, daughter of Kuriakose and Claramma Puthanthara.

Sister Anila is a member of the Sisters of the Adoration Congregation working in Danielson. Her First Profession was October 2, 2004 and her Final Profession was September 21, 2010.

Sister Anila worked for St. Joseph Living Center in Willimantic,

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

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Connecticut March for Life Coming This Month

By Garry Beausoleil

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MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

ith a potentially historic U.S. Supreme Court decision on abortion expected this summer, pro-lifers will gather in Hartford this month for the first March for Life CT.

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At issue is a Mississippi law that prohibits abortion after 15 weeks with some exceptions.

Many analysts believe the court ruling on the case could result in a reversal of the Supreme Court’s 1973 Roe v.

Wade decision legalizing abortion and return the issue to the states.

The March is sponsored by the Connecticut Catholic Conference and the Family Institute of Connecticut.

While CCC Executive Director Christopher Healy cautions prolifers to “keep their powder dry,” he also said, “This is the most encouraged I have been in quite some time that there could be some genuine progress on the abortion issue.”

Connecticut is far behind many other states when it comes to passing laws to protect unborn children. Pro-life leaders in the state believe a positive Supreme Court decision could help energize advocates for the big battles ahead.

Healy says the march is necessary because it is critical for Catholics to “proclaim the sanctity and intrinsic value of every human life in the public arena.”

Father Walter Nagle, the director of pro-life activities for the Diocese of Norwich, agrees. He added that prayer must be part of our public witness.

“First of all, prayer enlarges our hearts, making us more sensitive to the plight of unborn children,” he said. But beyond that, he added, “Prayer can also heal the culture, changing the hearts of those who provide abortion and politicians who support it.”

Father Nagle and Healy agree that there is a lot of work to do in Connecticut to pass laws that support a culture of life.

They said parental notification should be at the top of the agenda.

Right now, in Connecticut, a teenage girl can get an abortion without her parents even knowing about it.

Besides supporting pro-life laws, Nagle said Catholics need to increase their outreach to women with troubled pregnancies, adding, “We must be walking with mothers in need, so they don’t fall through the cracks.”

Another top pro-life issue is assisted suicide, which has gradually been making progress though the last few legislative sessions.

Other pro-life issues the CCC is looking at include adoption tax credits and support for migrants.

The march will be an ecumenical event with many other Christian groups participating. It will be held Wednesday, March 23.

A pre-march program is planned for the Bushnell Auditorium, 166 Capitol Ave., from 9:30 to 11 a.m..

The march will then proceed to the state capitol with the pro-life rally beginning at noon. Marchers are urged to bring their Rosaries. For more information, visit the website at ctmarchforlife.org Garry Beausoleil is a member of Knights of Columbus St. James Council #2883 in Danielson.

Healy said assisted suicide represents a severe threat to the dignity of the human person on the other end of the life spectrum from abortion.

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24 Hours for the Lord Friday, March 25th and Saturday, March 26th throughout the seven Deaneries of the Diocese

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n communion with Pope Francis, we are invited to join with the universal Church around the world in observing “24 Hours for the Lord” – a way to encounter God and His mercy this Lent through Reconciliation. This is a time of seeking God’s forgiveness and a change of heart.

This annual initiative will be held on Friday, March 25th and Saturday, March 26th throughout the seven Deaneries of the Diocese. It is an opportunity for people to avail themselves of the Sacrament of Reconciliation. The objective is to offer to all, especially those who feel uncomfortable entering a church, the occasion to experience the merciful embrace of God. Take this opportunity to continue your Lenten process of conversion in preparation for the celebration of Easter by visiting one of these participating churches near you:

Saint Francis of Assisi Church, 10 Elm Street, Middletown Friday, March 25, 6 AM to 6 PM Saturday, March 26, 6 AM to 2 PM

New London Deanery Our Lady of Lourdes Church, 1650 Route 12, Gales Ferry Friday, March 25, 9 AM to 5 PM Saturday, March 26, 9 AM to 12 Noon

Norwich Deanery

SS. Peter & Paul Church, 181 Elizabeth Street, Norwich Friday, March 25, 1 PM to 9 PM Saturday, March 26, 8 AM to 12 Noon

Old Saybrook Deanery

St. John Church, 161 Main Street, Old Saybrook Friday, March 25, 6:30 PM following the Stations of the Cross until all are heard

Putnam Deanery

Friday, March 25 Most Holy Trinity Church, 568 Pomfret Street, Pomfret — 2 PM to 4PM St. John Church, 10 Railroad Avenue, Plainfield — 3 PM to 5PM Saturday, March 26 Our Lady of LaSalette, 21 Providence Street, Brooklyn — 2 PM to 4 PM Saint James Church, 12 Franklin Street, Danielson — 2 PM to 4:30 PM St. Joseph Church, 12 Main Street, North Grosvenordale — 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM St. Mary Church, 218 Providence Street, Putnam — 9 AM to 11 AM and 2:30 PM to 3:30 PM

Vernon Deanery

St. Bernard Church, 25 St. Bernard’s Terrace, Rockville Friday, March 25, 7 AM to 7 PM

The First CONNECTICUT

Willimantic Deanery

St. Joseph Church, 99 Jackson Street, Willimantic Friday, March 25, 4 PM to 7 PM Saturday, March 26, 12 Noon to 3:30 PM St. Mary Church, 1600 Main Street, Coventry Friday, March 25, 6 PM to 9 PM Saturday, March 26, 12:30 PM to 3:30 PM St. Andrew Church, 128 Norwich Avenue, Colchester Friday, March 25, 3:30 PM to 7 PM Saturday, March 26, 2 PM to 3:45 PM Saint Columba Church, 328 Jct. of Routes 66 & 87, Columbia Friday, March 25, 9 AM to 10 AM and 3 PM to 4 PM Church of the Holy Family, 185 Church Street-Rt 85, Hebron Friday, March 25, 6 PM to 7 PM Saturday, March 26, 2:30 PM to 4:30 PM

MARCH FOR LIFE

MARCH 23, 2022

Let Connecticut legislators and the governor know

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Middletown Deanery

that YOU value ALL human life.

Sponsored by:

SAVE THE DATE

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Saint Vincent de Paul Place Helps Community with Housing Essentials “Lent is a good time for sacrificing. Let us deny ourselves something every day to help others.”

– Pope Francis

By Gina Foster

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and children. Saint Vincent de Paul offers food assistance, case management, showers, hygiene and more. The services are free to all.

My mother gave up chocolate and my dad chose to offer good deeds to neighbors, sacrificing his time.

Mom would take the money we saved from our weekly dessert budget and donate it to a food bank, soup kitchen or one of our Catholic school fundraisers that helped our community.

Because some in the community had to isolate during the omicron surge and only had access to microwave ovens, meal options have been limited. As a result, Saint Vincent de Paul Place is asking for donations of microwavable foods such as ramen, soups, oatmeal and pull-top canned spaghetti or ravioli.

They also need other housing essentials such as clean blankets, comforters, sheets, toothpaste and deodorant. Jillian Corbin, executive director of Saint Vincent de Paul Place, has provided an infographic that indicates the SVdPP community impact in 2021.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

elf-sacrifice can be defined as the act of giving up something in order to help another. Ever since I was very young, my family made a self-sacrifice during Lent. I remember my first Lenten sacrifice.

I was in second grade and attended a Catholic elementary school. My mother discussed with me the meaning of a Lenten sacrifice and I chose to give up cookies, my favorite dessert.

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Saint Vincent de Paul Place is just one of the ministries that benefits from our Annual Catholic Appeal.

With your support, SVDPP helps so many clients with food assistance, hygiene products and clean linens.

Your self-sacrifice with supporting our Annual Catholic Appeal has been truly a testament to your commitment to our diocesan community.

Your generosity helps our ministries continue their valuable and good work, even through these very difficult times.

One ministry that receives financial

I would like to appeal to those with political responsibilities to make a serious examination of conscience before God, who is the God of peace and not of war, the Father of all, not just of some, who wants us to be brothers and not enemies.

support from the ACA is Saint Vincent de Paul Place in Norwich.

Its mission is to serve those in Norwich and the surrounding areas who are physically, mentally, or spiritually impoverished. Patrons struggle with homelessness, unemployment, physical or mental disabilities, underemployment and addiction issues. The community includes the elderly, veterans

With our 2022 campaign now underway, please consider a monetary gift to the ACA to help our ministries carry out their spiritually affirming and life changing missions. To make a contribution to our 2022 ACA “One Faith, One Family,” please go online to www. norwichdiocesedevelopment.org or contact Heather Harris, campaign manager, at 860-886-1928 ext.

111. Thank you so much for your generosity. Enjoy the Lenten season and stay safe.

Consecrated Life: Anchors of Hope

By Ryan Blessing

The Jubilarians gathered with clergy called to a consecrated life, such as various orders of nuns, secular and apostolic institutes and monastic communities. Pope John Paul II established the yearly celebration in 1997 to honor vocations in the Catholic Church and as a way to give thanks to women and men in consecrated life.

“Anchors of Hope” was the theme for this year’s celebration. The virtue of hope is described as the anchor of the soul in the letter to the Hebrews chapter 6 verse 19- “we have hope as an anchor for the soul, sure and strong.”

The image of the anchor was used in the early church. An anchor keeps a ship from being carried away by the wind or strong ocean currents.

The virtue of Hope keeps us firmly anchored in Christ. No matter what chaos and uncertainty might be going on around us, He will give us peace through the Holy Spirit. A peace that the world cannot give.

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

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

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

T

he Cathedral of Saint Patrick again welcomed those who have devoted their lives to God’s calling to celebrate and renew that commitment at the Mass of Thanksgiving for the Gift of Consecrated Life on February 6th.

This year, 13 Jubilarians marked significant anniversaries of between 25 and 75 years of consecrated life in service to the Lord, such as sister Cecile Cusson, DHS, ‘22, with 65 years. Also honored were Sister Elsy Kappalumakkal, 25 years, Reverend Richard Myhalyk and Sister LanyJo Smith, 50 years, Sisters Linda Babineau, Patricia Blais, Caroline Devinez, Madeleine Gregoire and Patricia Rickis, 60 years, Sisters Anne Marie Berthiaume and M. Jeannette Berube, 65 years, and Reverend Bernard Backiel and Sister Eugenia Lukoshius, 70 years.

With Mass once again being held in person the nine Jubilarians able to attend exchanged smiles and hugs.

Together, they share a combined 770 years of consecrated life.

February 6th was the World Day of Consecrated Life – an observance of the feast of the Presentation of the Lord in the Temple.

“We see in Jesus the supreme model of one consecrated to God,” said Homilist Father Jacinto Mary Chapin, FI, from the Marian Friary of Our Lady of Guadalupe, in Griswold, Connecticut. “Those who are called to consecrated or religious life are called to follow our Lord in that total consecration to God.” The vocation to consecrated or religious life “is a tremendous gift for the whole Church. A gift to the one who is called to accept it, who embraces it,” Fr. Jacinto said. “It’s a gift to those who will be affected by the individual called to that life, too. So many people are affected by that person’s ‘yes’ to the Lord.”

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MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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Virtual Norwich Diocesan Women’s Conference March 26, 2022 9 a.m. to noon

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will present ideas from her latest book, Love Like A Saint 12

Participate from the comfort of your own home

Calendar of Events

Brothers in Christ: A Men’s Virtual Faith Group

Join this gathering of men who will share faith, personal experiences, and discussion. If you are interested in developing fellowship and discipleship with other men devoted to Christ, register by emailing Liza Roach at lroach@norwichdiocese.net or call (860)848-2237 ex. 305.

Wednesday, March 16, 23, and 30 from 7- 8:30 PM

Lenten Bible Study - The Passion, Death and Resurrection of Jesus Christ Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich Prepare your hearts to celebrate Easter by participating in this three-week Bible Study Lenten Program.

Tuesday, March 15, at 3 PM The program includes Scripture study, Lectio Virtual Rosary for Project Rachel Divina (prayerful reading of Scripture), AND Join us virtually the third Tuesday of the month to Adoration and Benediction of the Blessed say the rosary together for Project Rachel for an end Sacrament at each session. To register, call to abortion. To get the link to join the rosary email the Rectory at 860-889-8441. If you can only Marianne at manicholas@norwichdiocese.net attend the program online, please email at acatechist7@gmail.com. The program is free.

Make a Memory Easter Basket Collection Project Thursday, March 17, 7:00 PM The Office of Faith Events invites everyone to make Easter baskets that will be donated to the David Kaufman Concert soup kitchens/shelters in the Norwich Diocese Our Lady of Perpetual Help, Quaker Hill The music of David Kauffman inspires for children and families. Completed baskets people worldwide. Celebrate St. Patrick’s Day may be dropped off to 199 Broadway during by attending this live concert. regular business hours until Friday April 8.

Visit JourneyForLife.org or call 860-961-7609 Please make sure all candy is packaged - no loose candy or candy with nuts or peanut but- for tickets or more information. ter for allergy reasons. Questions?

Call (860) 848-2237.

Friday, March 18 & Thursday, April 21, 8:30 - 10:30 AM Mornings at Mercy Students and parents are invited to spend

Caring for the community for nearly 150 years

a morning experiencing Mercy during the school day. Girls in the 6th, 7th and 8th grade, as well as high school students considering a transfer to Mercy, and their parents, are welcome to visit to see for themselves what it’s like to attend an all-girls school, to gain an understanding of what happens at a Catholic college preparatory high school during the school day and to explore and experience a learning environment that supports personal growth and leadership development in the classroom, on the playing fields and through clubs and activities.

Saturday, March 26, 9 AM - Noon 2022 Norwich Diocesan Virtual Women’s Conference Keynote speaker, author, and certified spiritual director Liz Kelly will present ideas from her book Love Like a Saint. We will hear from Bishop Cote, name the 2022 Our Lady Queen of Hope Award recipient and more all from the comfort of your own home. Cost is $10 ,to register please go to www.norwichdiocese.org Questions? Please contact The Office of Faith Events at 860-848-2237.

Thursday, April 7, and Friday, April 8 at 7 PM Sunday, April 10 at 2 PM Mercy and Xavier High Schools Present: “High School Musical” Tickets available online (with reserved seating) and at the door.

Visit www.mercyhigh.com.

Mercy High School 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown, CT. (860) 346-6659.

Merciful Saviour Gift Shop Merciful Saviour Gift Shop

392 South Main Street, Colchester 112 Lafaytte Street, Norwich, CT 060360 860-537-0079 p: (860) 887-2538 • UtleyandJones@att.net• www.UtleyandJones.com 392 South Main Street MercifulSaviourGifts.com Colchester 860-537-0079

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Thursdays, March 10 to April 7, at 7 PM Diocesan Virtual Lenten Mission Support your Norwich Diocesan Women’s Conference Join the Office of Faith Events and prepare for by taking chances on 15 beautiful baskets, chances are the Easter season by reflecting, praying and $1 each and the raffle is open to all. Go to https:// deepening your faith while we explore how the go.rallyup.com/2022norwichwc saints renew our relationship with Christ. To Winners will be notified March 28. register and receive the link to join the meetings please email Marianne at manicholas@ Thursday, March 10, at 7- 7:45 norwichdiocese.net or call PM, and monthly every (860)848-2237 ext. 304. second Thursday VIRTUAL Basket Raffle Ongoing for the month of March, ending March 27 at midnight

393 South Main Street, Colchester 860-537-0079

MercifulSaviorGifts.com

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MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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Celebrate with

By Sally Velcofsky

Today, as we celebrate our 100th anniversary, Catholic Charities continues to serve those in need. We provide programs and services to not only fulfill the immediate basic needs of our clients such as food, clothing, prescriptions and children’s needs, but also provide rental and utility assistance, pregnancy Catholic Charities can trace education and support, job Its beginning to a meeting of readiness, SNAP assistance and the New London branch of financial education. the Connecticut Council of Catholic Women in May 1921. In the past, Catholic Charities

would hold a more formal gala.

This was one of our largest fundraising events of the year.

However, as we reflect on our deep history and charitable past of helping individuals and families in need, it was important that this year’s celebration should bring both individuals and families together to commemorate such a special occasion.

for those in need by providing compassionate social services for individuals and families living in New London, Windham, Tolland and Middlesex counties.”

For more information, visit our website at www.ccfsn.org or call Sally Velcofsky at 203-5560115. We look forward to seeing you there.

What a great way to honor Catholic Charities’ mission, “To respond to Christ’s call to care MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

C

atholic Charities is honoring their 100th Anniversary with a celebration on May 14 at Mystic Aquarium. With all the challenges of the pandemic over the past two years, we are long overdue to commemorate such a momentous occasion.

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Novena for the Solem

By Ryan Blessing

T

he spouse of Mary and the legal father of Jesus according to Jewish law, Joseph is a model of humility and obedience to God’s will.

Today, St. Joseph’s Day is observed all over the world on March 19th with a feast.

Celebrated as early as the ninth century, St. Joseph’s Day became a universal feast in the 15th century, when it was placed on the liturgical calendar. Pope Pius IX named St. Joseph Patron of the Universal Church in 1870; he is also the patron saint of carpenters, the dying and workers.

In the Collect (opening prayer) for the Solemnity of Saint Joseph on March 19, the Church recalls how he watched over the beginnings of the mysteries of human salvation in the life of Christ.

Christ wills to repeat those very same mysteries in our lives. In us, Christ wills to be born, to die, to rise, and to ascend to the Father’s right hand.

Saint Joseph, who faithfully cared for the beginnings of these mysteries, faithfully cares for us as these mysteries are perpetuated in our hearts, homes, and communities.

The USCCB has composed this novena to be prayed yearly on March 10-18, the nine days that precede the Solemnity of Saint Joseph on March 19.

Each day of the novena is accompanied by a reflection video from bishops across the United States. The novena may also be adapted for use at other times of the year, especially feasts celebrating Saint Joseph and occasions when his intercession is sought by the faithful.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

In the name of the Father, and of the Son, and of the Holy Spirit.

Amen.

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March 10th: The Genealogy

March 11th: The Betrothal

As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, we recall God’s divine plan, which foresaw and led to the person of St. Joseph.

“Jacob became the father of Joseph, the husband of Mary.

Of her was born Jesus who is called the Messiah.” (Mt 1:16)

As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, werecall St. Joseph’s vocation as husband of Mary,in which he receives and reveres Mary as God’s gift “The angel Gabriel was sent from God to a town of Galilee called Nazareth, to a virgin betrothedto a man named Joseph, of the house of David, and the virgin’s name was Mary.” (Lk 1:26-27)

A brief period of silence is observed.

V. Praise the LORD, for he is good; R. for his mercy endures forever.

O Illustrious Son of David, obtain for us through your divine Son the grace of abandonment to Divine Providence.

A brief period of silence is observed.

V. Magnify the LORD with me; R. and let us exalt his name together.

O Spouse of the Mother of God, obtain for us through your divine Son the grace of reverence for the human person.

March 12th: The Annunciation to Joseph As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, we recall St. Joseph’s obedience to the angel. “When Joseph awoke, he did as the angel of the Lord had commanded him and took his wife into his home.”

(Mt 1:24) A brief period of silence is observed.

V. I delight to do your will, my God; R. Your law is in my inner being!

O Foster-father of the Son of God, obtain for us through your divine Son the grace of obedience to the will of the Father.

March 13th: The Nativity As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, we recall the birth of Our Savior, whom Joseph and Mary are the first to adore.

“So they went in haste and found Mary and Joseph, and the infant lying in the manger. When they saw this, they made known the message that had been told them about this child.”

(Lk 2:16-17) A brief period of silence is observed.

V. The LORD has made his victory known; R. has revealed his triumph in the sight of the nations.

O Watchful Defender of Christ, obtain for us through your divine Son the grace of adoration.

mnity of Saint Joseph March 15th: The Presentation

March 16th: The Flight to Egypt

As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, we recall the service of authority which St. Joseph carries out in the Holy Family.

“When eight days were completed for his circumcision, he was named Jesus, the name given him by the angel before he was conceived in the womb.”

As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, we recall the worship that St. Joseph and Our Lady offer God in the temple.

“When the days were completed for their purification according to the law of Moses, they took him up to Jerusalem to present him to the Lord and to offer the sacrifice.” (Lk 2:22, 24)

As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, we recall the flight to Egypt, in which St. Joseph spares nothing to defend Christ and Our Lady.

“Joseph rose and took the child and his mother by night and departed for Egypt.”

(Lk 2:21) A brief period of silence is observed.

V. You have given him rule over the works of your hands, R. put all things at his feet.

O Head of the Holy Family, obtain for us through your divine Son the grace to accept God’s upward calling in Christ Jesus.

A brief period of silence is observed.

V. My soul yearns and pines for the courts of the LORD. R. My heart and flesh cry out for the living God.

(Mt 2:14) A brief period of silence is observed.

V. I have chosen David, my servant; with my holy oil I have anointed him.

R. My hand will be with him; my arm will make him strong.

March 17th: Finding Jesus in the Temple As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, we recall the faithfulness of St. Joseph and Mary in the midst of confusion.

“But they did not understand what he said to them.

He went down with them and came to Nazareth, and was obedient to them; and his mother kept all these things in her heart.”

(Lk 2:50-51) A brief period of silence is observed.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

March 14th: The Naming

V. Make known to me your ways, LORD; R. teach me your paths.

O Joseph most faithful, obtain for us through your divine Son the grace of true worship.

O Protector of the Church, obtainfor us through your divine Son the grace to bravely overcome every evil.

Concluding Prayer:

Hail, Guardian of the Redeemer Spouse of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

To you God entrusted his only Son; in you Mary placed her trust; with you Christ became man.

THE USCCB HAS RECORDED VIDEOS TO

ACCOMPANY EACH DAY OF THE NOVENA. SCAN THE QR CODE TO VIEW THE PLAYLIST.

O Solace of the Afflicted, obtain for us through your divine Son the grace of peace even when we do not fully understand your ways.

March 18th: The Death of St. Joseph As the solemnity of St. Joseph approaches, we recall St. Joseph’s joyful acceptance of death in God’s time.

“The souls of the righteous are in the hand of God, and no torment shall touch them.”

(Wis 3:1-3) A brief period of silence is observed.

V. You will show me the path to life, R. the delights at your right hand forever.

O Patron of the Dying, obtain for us through your divine Son the grace of a happy death. Blessed Joseph, to us too, show yourself a father and guide us in the path of life.

Obtain for us grace, mercy and courage,and defend us from every evil. Amen.

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Knights Korner Blessed McGivney Day of Reflection

By David Imhof

T

he Knights of Columbus Connecticut State Council will present a free virtual Blessed McGivney Day of Reflection from 9 a.m. to 3 p.m. on March 26. This event examines the spirituality of the founder of the Knights of Columbus, Blessed McGivney and the principles of Charity, Unity and Fraternity.

It is open to all members of the Knights of Columbus. If you are not a Knight and are interested in attending, you can easily join your local Knights of Columbus council by going to www.KofC.org/JoinUs (or use the QR code below).

By using the promo code of “MCGIVNEY2020” you will receive free membership for one year. Being a Knight of Columbus is a great way to live your Christian life to love others as Jesus loves you.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

The goal is to inspire and energize participants with knowledge and spiritual motivation to “continue his (McGivney) work of caring for the needy and the outcast.” For additional information, to register or help in joining This work is a great way to obey Jesus’ new commandment in contact: CT Faith Director / Retreat Program Director: John’s Gospel, “This is my commandment: love one another David Imhof imhofda@aol.com, 860-604-4710. as I love you” ( John 15:12). The presentation is virtual, using Zoom technology. Activities include prayer, presentations, video and discussions.

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Wrapped in God’s Love Women Share Their Gift of Quilting

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin

The women, members of the Connecticut chapter of ACTS, created the quilt to be included in one of several themed baskets the chapter is raffling as part of its annual fundraiser. Money raised from the raffle will help ACTS CT continue to reach out to more parishes within the diocese and throughout Connecticut.

Sandy Calabro, a member of Holy Cross Community, Pawcatuck, designed the quilt using fabric she

found with Scripture verses on it.

She gave pieces of the fabric to each of the women, who used their own fabrics to design a 13-inch square that included a Scripture verse.

Each woman machine-stitched their squares and passed them to Sandy, who added blue strips in between each and a Marian blue border around the quilt. The center of the quilt includes blue squares sewn together to make a cross.

Once this was completed, the quilt was sent out to be machine quilted with a heart pattern signifying the love of God. The women have aptly named the quilt, which measures 76 inches by 88 inches, “Wrapped in God’s Love.”

Three of the seven quilters pose next to the finished quilt named, “Wrapped in God’s Love,” that will be included in a basket raffle to benefit the Connecticut Chapter of ACTS. They are, left to right, Theresa O’Gara, Catherine Holdridge, and Sandy Calabro, all members of the Holy Cross Community, Pawcatuck. The finished quilt measures 76 inches by 88 inches and features Scripture verses in each square.

Calabro was inspired to create the quilt based on the response to a small lap quilt included in one of last year’s basket raffles.

An Education You Can Believe In.

Inspiring Achievement. Celebrating Community.

Embracing Service. Living Faith.

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

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

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

“So, this year I had the idea to try to make a quilt and asked women who had been involved with ACTS if they’d like to help. Seven women agreed and the rest is history,” she said. “The quilt became a reality and the lucky person who wins it will be ‘wrapped in God’s love’ and enjoy the warmth and comfort of this beautiful quilt.”

Joining Calabro in creating the quilt are two parishioners from her church, Catherine Holdridge and Theresa O’Gara; Jeanne Barrasso and Susan Turley from St. Patrick’s Church, Mystic; Ellen Sefransky from Sacred Heart Parish, Groton; and Karen Bigger from St. Agnes, Niantic, who in addition to creating

her own squares hand-stitched the binding on the quilt’s edges.

The raffle began March 1 and will continue through the drawing on Palm Sunday, April 10. Those interested in purchasing tickets can do so on the website https:// go.rallyup.com/actsct2022.

According to Calabro, ACTS is a parish-based three-night retreat program designed to evangelize parish communities. It focuses on the core activities of Adoration, Community, Theology and Service which is the base of the acronym ACTS. It challenges participants completing the program to return to their parishes spiritually renewed, strengthened in their faith, and filled with a desire to re-energize their parish communities.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

S

haring the gift of time and talent, a group of seven diocesan women have created a quilt of Scripture verses they hope will raise money to support their ministry of evangelization.

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The Day Everyone is Irish

By Deacon Ben LoCasto

O

n March 17, the Church celebrates the Memorial of St. Patrick, Bishop of Ireland, who 1,500 years ago brought Christianity to the Emerald Isle.

In addition to being the patron of the Diocese of Norwich, Saint Patrick is also the patron of Ireland where Irish monks were instrumental in preserving Western knowledge while Europe remained in the Dark Ages.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

In the early days of our nation,

Irish missionaries were among the first to bring Catholicism to our shores. Perhaps that is why there are so many Cathedrals and Churches in America named for this saint.

The Church observes the Memorial of Saint Patrick with Mass.

However, over the years for many Americans of Irish descent, Saint Patrick’s Day is also a memorial of their heritage and homeland, celebrated across America with parades, good cheer and good food – especially the ubiquitous corned beef and cabbage dinner.

Undoubtedly, thousands of

Good Food.

Great People.

An Irish Pub located in downtown Putnam!

58 Main St. Putnam, CT (860) 315-9220 thehareandthehound.com

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pounds of corned beef and cabbage will be prepared and consumed throughout our four counties. And if cooking Irish fare is not your thing, don’t worry, there are a number of Irish themed restaurants which will keep this age-old tradition alive.

Inishmoor in Colchester and Harp and Dragon in Norwich are a couple that come to mind.

An establishment that you may not be aware of is The Hare and Hound, located in the quiet corner of Connecticut — Putnam.

Chef Christopher Echier will prepare more than 900 lbs. of corned beef, cooked in-house in the house brine, oven-braised for six hours at low temperature— keeping the meat juicy and tender.

This is served with Yukon gold potatoes, cabbage cooked in brine, and Irish soda bread from a Boston bakery.

I had the pleasure of meeting Michael DiCenzo, the owneroperator who told me that three years ago, when he was trying to decide what type of restaurant to open, his DNA test results came back indicating that he was 51% Irish. His decision was made.

No matter how you choose to celebrate the day, please remember the words of the prayer of Saint Patrick —

On St. Patrick’s Day, serving begins there at 10 AM. They will offer their entire bill of fare throughout the day, including the likes of Guinness stew, bangers and mash, Galway Bay Salmon, and shepherd’s pie.

Chef Echier includes corned beef in other menu items including Irish Cubans, house Rubens and Irish pizza.

They will serve diners until 1 AM the next morning.

May Christ be with us!

May Christ be before us!

May Christ be in us, Christ be over all!

May Thy Salvation, Lord, Always be ours, This day, O Lord, and evermore. Amen.

Fasting & Abstinence sh Wednesday and Good Friday are obligatory days of fasting and abstinence for Catholics. In addition, Fridays during Lent are obligatory days of abstinence.

The norms on fasting are obligatory from age 18 until age 59. When fasting, a person is permitted to eat one full meal, as well as two smaller meals that together are not equal to a full meal.

The norms concerning abstinence from meat are binding upon members of the Catholic Church from age 14 onwards.

Are you looking for a break from cooking? Here are a number of churches that will do the cooking for you — and they’ll even serve it with a smile!

FISH & CHIPS

SOUP St. Mary Church, Coventry 6 PM – Soup Before Stations at 7 PM St. Mary, Portland 6 PM – Soup before Stations at 7 PM

St. John, Plainfield 4 PM - 7PM St. Mary Church of the Visitation, Clinton 6 PM – 8 PM St. Patrick, East Hampton 4:30 PM – 7 PM Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry See Bulletin for Times

Please check Parish Bulletin at all locations for prices and Covid restrictions/requirements Don’t see your church’s fish dinner listed?

Send us the details at editorial@norwichdiocese.net

~ EB ~

PLACEMENT TEST

Recognizing students have various academic strengths, skills and abilities our Placement Test allows us to put students in the correct classes to challenge and strengthen them.

SAINT BERNARD SCHOOL

Save the Dates!

To register for the events listed here, or to book an appointment for a private tour call 860-848-1271.

Visit SaintBernardSchool.org for a 3-D Tour and to learn more!

Saint Bernard School Grades 6–12 1593 Norwich-New London Tpke Uncasville, CT 06382 Ask us about our Tailored Tuition Program to help meet your family’s unique financial situation.

Saturday, April 30, 2022

OPEN HOUSE

We invite you to join us at our Virtual Open House where you can learn about our academic programs, athletics, campus life and much more.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

A

CHURCHES OFFERING FRIDAY LENTEN MEALS

Thursday, April 7, 2022 21

Sacred Heart School, Groton Gail Kingston, Principal 50 Sacred Heart Drive, Groton 860-445-0611 sacredheartgroton.org/school

Sacred Heart School, Taftville

Mother Christina Van Beck, SCMC, Principal 15 Hunters Ave, Taftville 860-887-1757 sacredhearttaftville.org

St. James School, Danielson Elyse McAteer, Principal 120 Water St, Danielson 860-774-3281 stjamesdanielson.org

St. John School, Old Saybrook

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

St. John Paul II School, Middletown Larry Fitzgerald, Principal 87 South Main Street. Middletown 860-347-2978 JPII.org

St. Joseph School, Baltic

Sr. Mary Patrick Mulready, SCMC, Principal 10 School Hill Road, Baltic 860-822-6141 Stjosephschoolbaltic.com

St. Joseph School, New London

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Marianne Cote, Principle 25 Squire Street, New London 860-442-1720 SJSNL.com

22

St. Michael School, Pawcatuck Doris Messina, Principal West Broad St., Pawcatuck 860-599-1084 stmichaelschoolct.com

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich Sharon Stewart, Principal 211 Broadway, Norwich 860-889-4174 st-patrickschoolnorwich.org

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

Mercy High School, Middletown Alissa DeJonge, President 1740 Randolph Road, Middletown 860-346-6659 mercyhigh.com

St. Bernard School, Uncasville

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

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

St. Joseph School, New London, Serves a Diverse Community of Learners My dear friends, This month we focus the spotlight on another one of the outstanding educational institutions in the diocese - St. Joseph School in New London.

St. Joseph School in New London opened its doors in 1937, the dream of the pastor and the people of St. Joseph Parish. The dream was realized through the pennies, nickels and dimes of a faith-filled people, who even then understood that this school would be the heart of the parish. Opening the school with kindergarten through third grade and graduating its first eighth-grade class in 1962, St. Joseph School has continued to grow to become the kindergarten through grade 8 school it is today.

It is a vital part of the St. Brendan the Navigator Catholic Parish and includes the churches of St. Joseph, St. Mary Star of the Sea, St. Paul and Our Lady of Grace.

The school’s mission, recited and lived by our students, faculty and staff each day, has taken the form of the acronym AMEN. “Accept each person as a unique creation in God’s image; Model Jesus as we make everyone feel welcome in the holy place; Educate each other for life; Nurture the diverse gifts and talents of the whole school family.”

With our AMEN in mind, we greet each day with its opportunities and challenges in the spirit of the joy, peace and compassion of our Catholic school, remembering our call to welcome and serve the people of this community and beyond as a diverse community of learners.

The most important component of our curriculum is the privilege of assisting our parents in forming the faith of their children on a daily basis, doing

so through prayer, service and instruction. St. Joseph School infuses this understanding into its traditional liberal arts curriculum, as described by the curriculum of the Norwich diocesan schools.

Our school family expects its students to reach their full potential as God’s children, through the study of language arts, mathematics, social studies and science, as well as the fine and performing arts, foreign language and physical activity.

Prayer and service are integral to our school community on a daily basis as we nurture the faith of our students. October brings with it the Most Holy Rosary; during Advent, students gather in the auditorium around the Jesse Tree and the Advent Wreath; in the Lenten season they pray with the signs and symbols of baptism and the stations of the cross.

When you visit St. Joseph School you might see the seventh and eighth-graders preparing dinner to be served at the Community Meal Center, or second-graders decorating cookies for the same meal; students at all levels writing cards and letters to our service men or in appreciation of our first responders and parishioners; food items, toys, or even socks may fill the school lobby awaiting distribution to those in need.

Fourth-graders might be heard singing and practicing for their class play, one of nine performed each year by each class in our school. During a visit to the classrooms, students may be engaged in public speaking and writing activities, handson social studies and science activities or labs, and enjoying art or music. Spanish, French and Latin words may be heard throughout the building. You

of the area high schools, most will attend St. Bernard School, receiving a substantial scholarship designated by the Reagan-Twomey/Pfister Foundation for graduates of St. Joseph who attend St. Bernard School.

Parents say that coming to St. Joseph School is like coming home, and St. Joseph School allows children to let their light shine in a challenging educational setting. Others have told us their children are safe, surrounded by love and helped to be the best people they can be and that St.

Your son/daughter will succeed.

Joseph’s forms true leaders who are kind and supportive of one another.

ST. THOMAS MORE SCHOOL • Renowned college preparatory boarding school for young men and women who have not yet realized their potential.

May God bless you and keep you safe.

• Located in scenic southeastern Connecticut

860.823.3861

stmct.org

One eighth-grader recently wrote, “Being at St. Joseph School means having the freedom to speak to God, and striving for my best in everything I do. Everyone is accepted and welcomed, and everyone cares about our education.”

St. Joseph School is a member of the National Catholic Educational Association and accredited by the New England Association of Schools and Colleges.

~ EB ~

Dr. Gail Kingston Superintendent of Schools

St. Joseph School New London, CT

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St. Joseph School Registration is ongoing 25 Squire Street Please call or visit New London, CT 06320 www.sjsnl.com for information Phone: 860-442-1720

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

might also witness the use of oneto-one technology as a learning tool or our physical education and health teacher promoting healthy bodies and minds through exercise and meditation.

A graduate of St. Joseph School could be described as a student who is a joyful, confident leader, mindful of the call to serve others, able to advocate for that which is just and to articulate an understanding of his or her responsibilities as a child of God. While our graduates go to many

23

International Students Revel in the Novelty of Snow

By Isabella Wright, Iris Gillette, Kailey Boccia, Eleanor Cooper, Sister Kateri

S

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

now is not uncommon in New England. It’s expected, actually.

Another international student from Ethiopia shared her fun snow experience. She said it was her first time seeing and While many people regularly experiencing snow. She said enjoy snow in this area, there are sledding was fun, and also that also many people who don’t care snow was much colder than she for it and get tired of seeing it thought it would be. several times each year. In other parts of the world, however, there A student from Belize shared her are those who have never seen or first snow encounter as well. She experienced snow for themselves called it pretty, and it reminded and don’t know what it feels like her of the white sand that she’s or what it’s like to play in it. used to. She thought it would be warm like sand, but was shocked At the Academy of the Holy by how cold it was when she fell Family, many international into some snow. She said she’d students have never touched prefer not to touch snow again. snow She still likes the snow a lot, but Our student from Brazil had an not every day. interesting perspective on snow It was wonderful to see so many before she actually experienced students out enjoying the snow it. Growing up in the warmer after the blizzard at the end of climate of Brazil, when she January. They bundled up in their originally thought of snow, she coats, boots, hats and mittens to thought it was very pretty but spend some time trekking in didn’t understand how cold it was the snow, sledding down the hill until she recently experienced and throwing snowballs at one it for the first time. After her another. original encounter with the snow’s coldness, she said her first The cold and wetness of the instinct was to stomp on it. snow surprised some of the international students, and they When asked how she feels about were ready to head back in to living with the snow and how warm up with some hot chocolate others live in it, she said she and soup after their adventure. believed it would be difficult to live with snow, partially because All agreed the snow was lovely to it would be harder to grow see and fun to play in. They also fruits and vegetables. She also admitted they don’t mind when applauded people who lived with classes are canceled for a snow snow before there was access to day. electricity and heating.

THE ACADEMY OF THE HOLY FAMILY, LOCATED IN BALTIC, IS A CATHOLIC DAY AND BOARDING COLLEGE PREPARATORY SCHOOL FOR NATIONAL AND INTERNATIONAL YOUNG WOMEN. FOR MORE INFORMATION VISIT AHFBALTIC.COM 24

Computer Honor Society Formed at Saint Bernard

By Kimberly S. Hodges

W

The Computer Honor Society was founded in the state of Virginia in 2016 by CodeVA, a nonprofit that partners with schools, parents and communities to bring equitable computer science education to all of Virginia’s students. The society was assumed by the Computer Science Teachers Association (CSTA) for national expansion in 2019.

The local chapter started its inaugural year with 15 students in grades 10-12. According to the bylaws, the purpose of the society is “to cultivate thriving environments for success in computer science in the school community by encouraging students’ enthusiasm, honoring academic excellence, and promoting service.”

Faculty adviser Ann Marie Jakubielski said students are not only surrounded by technology every day but they are also consumers of it. Jakubielski said she wants students to think of technology as more of a tool

and to be actual creators of technology, as opposed to merely being consumers.

In the computer science courses at Saint Bernard, students are encouraged to think outside of the box, be critical thinkers, to try different ways to problem solve and not be afraid to fail. Jakubielski said very rarely will a student write a computer program correctly the first time. Critical thinking and out-of-the-box problem solving are both skills that students need to be competitive in higher education and the workplace.

Society member Ashlyn Paradis, ‘23, plans a career in cybersecurity.

“It’s what I feel passionate about and I love the opportunity that Saint Bernard School has given me to be part of the Society and help further my career goals,” she said.

SBS Computer Science Honor Society students with Faculty adviser Ann Marie Jakubielski SBS CSHS officers Matthew Botarro, ‘23, the vicepresident of the Society, said he has played with computers since he could write his name. “I have always known that working in the field of computer science is what I have wanted to do since I was small,” he said.

troubleshooting and making small repairs to Chromebooks under the supervision of Mrs. Jakubielski.

To be considered for membership to the Society, students must be in grades 10-12, have been a student at Saint Bernard for at least one In addition to getting the word out semester, completed at least one about the Society and the career semester of rigorous computer and education opportunities science coursework, have at least available to students, chapter a 75 average in all other classes, members will run a student- and have not failed any classes. centered helpdesk to assist other Once a student meets these students who have questions prerequisites, they can apply to about, or are having trouble the Society. with, their Chromebook. The goal is that by the 2022-23 school An induction ceremony for the year, helpdesk students will be Society will take place in late spring.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

e are pleased to announce a new honor society for high school students, the Saint Bernard School Computer Science Honor Society (SBS CSHS). Saint Bernard is proud to be the first school in Southeastern Connecticut to have a chapter.

25

By Marie Kalita

T

he summer is a great time to make new friends, meet high school students and teachers all while exercising your mind and body.

The Higher Achievement Program (HAP), for girls rising to 7th or 8th grade is scheduled for July 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. July 11-25. HAP is a one-week enrichment course that combines social activities, athletics

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Mercy High School’s summer program is for rising middle school

students and ninth-graders.

and creative classroom techniques.

This unique program assists and prepares students entering grades 7 and 8 for high school, reinforcing reading, language and math skills needed for the High School Placement Test.

STREAM, also for girls rising to 7th or 8th grade, will take place from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. July 18- 22. Splash into the Mercy Experience as you dive into science, technology, religion, English, arts and mathematics with Mercy’s experienced faculty.

Come ready for hands-on learning in an interactive and creative environment.

The third program held in July is a co-ed Theater Arts Program for boys and girls rising to 6th, 7th, 8th or 9th grade. TAP provides a creative and interactive theatrical experience. The focus of the one-week session is scene study, improvisation, pantomime, characterization and building acting skills through theater games.

The session culminates with a theater performance. Students will also attend a matinee performance at a local theater. Join us from 9 a.m. to 2:30 p.m. July 25-29.

head coach Tim Kohs and varsity soccer coach Marcus Harley welcome girls from around the state to Mercy for their annual summer basketball and soccer clinics for girls rising to 6th, 7th, 8th or 9th grade. The clinics, which feature current and former Mercy basketball and soccer players, aim to teach girls the fundamentals of these sports through drills and competition in a fun, friendly environment.

The basketball clinic, from 9 a.m. to noon June 20-24, provides an opportunity for girls to take their game to the next level but also allows them to have fun and make new friends. This program has a limited capacity. Register early to reserve your space for 2022.

The soccer clinic, an evening program from 5 to 7 p.m. June 2023, provides a fun and competitive environment for players of all ability levels. It is an excellent opportunity to learn lessons on respect, integrity, responsibility, leadership and sportsmanship.

Participants will be involved in team play, skill development, games and tournaments, as well as making new friends.

Each summer, varsity basketball For more information and to register, visit www.mercyhigh.com 26 Mercy_SumProg22_FourCountyCathAd_R2.indd 1

1/19/22 12:47 PM

Xavier Second in State in Design Challenge Falcons Reach National Event In April

By Jeff Otterbein

greater speed to get to the delivery location quicker, and the rotors would slow it down so we could have the vertical landing,” Stearns said. “It was a team effort to put the parts together.”

There are three main sections to the team.

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

“Design is one,” Kurup said.

“There’s also command, control, and communications, which deals with things like sensors, on-board components, and communicating with the drone, things like that.

And then the business part, because you want to make as much money as possible.”

After all, the design challenge is called “Real World.”

“The business part of it focused on flights per day and how we could operate efficiently with our workers and get the most packages delivered per day, so we could get the most profits, paying off what was spent on the drones, paying for the warehouse space,” Stearns said.

No doubt some of these Xavier students will be working in the

real world someday figuring out solutions in various engineering fields. For now they are simply having fun.

“I joined this year, after seeing it at the SAC Fair,” Snow said. “I found out I liked design the most and ended up working with Rithik on that, and it was really fun.”

Clements-Dolan is another newcomer as a freshman.

“Being on the team is very inclusive since it is small, and there is a lot you can do,” Clements-Dolan said.

Kurup said Clements-Dolan did much of the research, “and we used that to decide how the drone would be designed.”

Now it’s on to an even bigger competition.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

W

hen you hear the students describe the project, all you can think about is the hours spent. All they can think about is facing and meeting a challenge.

“Total hours?” Rithik Kurup ’23 asks. “Could it be 100?” he wonders as he turns to some of his teammates. “It could be.”

The final Microsoft Teams meeting, as the project was due, went from about 11 a.m. to 1 a.m.

It was well worth it.

Once again, the Xavier Engineering Team is headed to the Real World Design Challenge national competition. Xavier finished second in the state competition and was invited as a wild card entry for the national event that will be held virtually on April 23.

The team members besides Kurup are Henry Stearns ’23, Jiahao Chen ’23, Darren Sengphachanh ’24, Patrick Clements-Dolan ’25, Oliver Snow ’25, and Joshua Raj ’25.

They were tasked with building a package delivery drone. They built a hybrid model with wings and rotors.

“The challenge stated that we would have a runway, so we opted for the wings to take off with

27

NOW HIRING

Looking for a job? We have a number of open positions that can be found at NorwichDiocese.org/Employment.

Here are the latest postings. Visit the website for further details.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Parish Services/ Accounting Clerk - Diocese of Norwich The position will require approximately 15 – 18 hours per week. Duties include providing services to parishes in a cloud-based QuickBooks environment, spreadsheet analysis of investment activity, invoicing, and other related duties. Must be proficient in all phases of QuickBooks, especially payroll and related taxes, all MS programs, have strong interpersonal skills, and an understanding and respect for the hierarchy of the Catholic Church.

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

Pre-School Teacher St. James School, Danielson We are looking for a compassionate pre-school teacher who will instill the love of learning into the students while following the Diocese of Norwich Curriculum.

Parker

Visit us at:

www.waittesinsurance.com Edward J. Waitte Pat Zils Michael J. Waitte Debbie Froio

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Outreach to Haiti - Administrative Assistant / Database Coordinator This paid position is approximately 19 hours per week at our Norwich office.

Responsibilities include assisting the team in creating letters to donors, keeping records updated and tracking donors in our database. Prior experience in Microsoft Office Suite, mail merge, database management and good writing skills preferred.

Personalized Service on All Types of Insurance

• Auto • Home • Business • Life

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Let us pray for the catechists, summoned to announce the Word of God: may they be its witnesses, pray for Christians facing withWecourage and creativity new bioethical challenges; may andthey in continue the power ofthe the to defend dignity of all human life with Holy Spirit.

PRAYER INTENTION

prayer and action.

- Pope Francis

Diakonia: Instrument of God’s Charity

The word “deacon” is derived from “diakonia’’, a Greek word which means “to serve”. Deacons are members of the clergy along with priests and bishops. The deacon’s ministry has three dimensions: liturgy, word and service. Deacons are ordained as a sacramental sign to the Church and to the world of Christ,who came “to serve and not to be served.”

This column will focus on the service of the Deacons in the Diocese of Norwich.

Deacons shift from ‘Build A House’ to ‘Give A Goat’

T

he Norwich Diocese Diaconate community has a history Deacon Phil Hayes with the of donating a house to a needy new owners of a Happy House. family in Haiti as an annual group charitable gift. These houses are not the kind and size of the houses we are accustomed to. In the mountainous regions of Haiti much of the population live in huts constructed with local vegetation and scrap construction materials. The Haitian Health Foundation (HHF), headquartered in Norwich, has a program to build sturdy one-room dwellings they call a ‘Happy House.’ A Happy House has a concrete floor, cement block walls and a secure metal roof. Some of our deacons who were doing vol- our annual convocations the deacons unteer work with HHF suggested to enthusiastically endorsed renewing our diaconate community that we this project. But the cost of this projmight take on a group project, do- ect has steadily risen each year. By nating enough funds to build a Hap- 2016, the cost had risen to $1,250. In py House. It cost $850 to construct a 2017 we switched to a $1,900 ‘HappiHappy House at that time. We have er House,’ which added a solar pandone it as a project each year since el for lighting, a composting toilet, a rainwater collection system and a then.

In his pastoral letter, “Diakonia: In- water purification system. In 2020 strument of God’s Own Charity,” the Happier House cost $2,500. EvBishop Cote emphasized the role of ery year we have been able to fund charity in the ministry of a deacon. the house and give the surplus of our “In his threefold ministry of Word, donations to HHF to use where they liturgy, and charity, the deacon’s dis- felt the most need. tinctive call is to works of charity.” In 2019 HHF suggested we use part He then quoted Archbishop Robert of our surplus donations to particiCarlson: “Only when the deacon pate in their ‘Give-A-Goat’ program. combines his service at the altar of Give-A-Goat distributes pregnant the Eucharist with his service to the goats to the most at-risk families in needy of the world, only when he rural mountain villages. Recipients becomes a ‘bridge’ linking the sac- breed the goats to develop a herd, usrament of charity with the concrete ing the offspring to help pay for food, practice of charity does he become a rent, medicine or education. Goats are hardy animals, adaptable to Hai‘living icon’ of Christ the servant.”

While our deacons perform many ti’s rough, mountainous terrain, and individual acts of charity, this par- can graze on poor, dry land unsuitticular act of group giving appealed able for other livestock. In 2019 we to us on multiple levels. At each of donated for two goats and in 2020

we donated for six goats, with the remaining donations able to fund a Happy House.

As we prepared to launch our 2021 project at our November convocation, we discovered that conditions in Haiti made it impossible to build a Happy House. The huge earthquake on Aug. 14, 2021, followed two days

later by Tropical Storm Grace, had damaged and destroyed so much of the infrastructure, including roads and bridges, that it was not possible to get the building supplies to the areas where HHF is building houses. Wishing to continue our annual project to help Haiti, we decided to devote our entire donation to GiveA-Goat. We were able to fund 19 goats – and that is how the Norwich Diaconate community went from housing construction to animal husbandry.

Completing this project each year vividly heightens our awareness that many people in the world have so very little of what we consider the basic necessities. It is a gift to us to be able to provide them with such essentials. In addition to our material gifts we pray for their safety and success.

We also pray for the success of HHF and our Norwich Diocese mission in Haiti and our diocesan Outreach to Haiti ministry.

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.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Deacon Lawrence Goodwin

860-861-4439

29

Can We Make Lent Fun?

Fai t h Sparks

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Andrea D. Hoisl

30

T

hose of you who know me know that I am all about having fun. I love to laugh and often use the phrase, “You have to make your own fun.” I have found throughout my life that laughter lightens the spirit and brings joy to every situation.

It does not recognize differences or conflicts, rather it can serve as a bridge over many great divides. I am proud to say I have brought laughter to places it has never been and given people a reason to laugh on more than one occasion. But as I look ahead to Lent it struck me, for the first time, that Lent might be the one exception to my “laughter makes everything better” rule.

The question is this – As Catholics can the season of Lent be fun, be joy-filled, be lighthearted? By definition (from the Oxford dictionary) Lent is the period preceding Easter that in

the Christian Church is devoted to fasting, abstinence, and penitence in commemoration of Christ’s fasting in the wilderness.

In the Western Church it runs from Ash Wednesday to Holy Saturday and so includes forty weekdays. Admittedly, on the surface that does not sound like there is any room for fun or spiritual lighthearted joy, but I would like to dig a little deeper.

During Lent we are supposed to be preparing ourselves for the celebration of Christ’s resurrection on Easter Sunday.

Fasting, abstinence and penance are traditionally ways that we come to ready ourselves for this amazing celebration. But what if we added some new ways to prepare ourselves for Christ’s Easter glory. A lot of what we choose to do during Lent to prepare for Easter, we do alone. Prayer, scripture reading,

reconciliation, abstinence are all singular activities that do not have to be so. Why not take our Lenten devotion, whatever it is, and share it with someone else?

Why not make some changes during Lent that facilitate our own spiritual enrichment as well as someone else’s?

When we share our spiritual journey with others during Lent, our experiences become enriched, and our preparation enhanced. The joy of living out the gospel message can be seen more clearly, for as Matthew’s Gospel teaches us: “Where two or three are gathered in my name, there am I among them.”

Some ideas for sharing your Lenten practices might include starting a prayer group or Scripture study, sponsoring a service project for your family and friends, or sharing your spiritual preparation with others

so that on Easter morning you will be able to celebrate the joy of the resurrection with others.

As Christians, we are communal people, created to live together, work together and worship together. Our lives are enhanced daily by others sharing their gifts and talents with us. This Lent, open your heart and your mind and share your gifts and talents with others to help them better prepare for Easter. If we are all able to do this during Lent, our Christian witness could change the world.

Pope Francis says it best when he speaks about Christian joy rooted in God’s unconditional love for us. He writes, “Joy adapts and changes, but it always endures, even as a flicker of light born of our personal certainty that, when everything is said and done, we are infinitely loved.”

Ignite Your Faith.

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks to find additional resources to grow in faith in 2022.

10

Pasta for Hope – Serving A good Cause Official Approved Notice from U.S. Bankruptcy Court

By Edward J. Tessman Executive Director, Catholic Charities

Church community and the Knights of Columbus for the District of Connecticut from Council #14, specifically Grand Knight Sexual Charlie Nadile, Larry King, Sam Bruder, Colin Abuse and General Claims in atholic Charities, with the help and Rice, Dan Roberts and John DeVivo.” It The was a Roman Catholic Diocese of support from the Knights of Columbus great evening. The pasta was cooked toNorwich, perfection, Connecticut Bankruptcy Council #14 and the Willimantic the sauce was handmade and simmered for hours, The Norwich Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation, a/k/a the Roman Catholic Community held a Pasta for Hope the meatballs were huge and theDiocese dessertsofwere out (“Diocese” or “Debtor”) has filed bankruptcy in order to Norwich restructure its nonprofit Dinner at Saint Joseph Church Hall on Saturday, of this world. We were excited to have the Bishop organization. Please read this notice carefully as it may FUNERAL HOMES impact your rights against the Diocese and provides information about the case, In October 29th.

Children ofAvenue all ages were encouraged4848Grand join usStreet for this community eventre which will allow 12 Ocean 12 Ocean Avenue Grand Street The Norwich Roman Catholic Diocesan Corporation (Bankr. D. Conn.). This New London, CT New London, CT Niantic, CT Niantic, CT to dress in costumes and play games for candy. notice is a short summary. us to continue to “Provide Help and Create Hope” 443-1871 443-1871 739-6112 739-6112 www.neilanfuneralhome.com Father Larry LaPointe graciously offered the use of for those most in need.

Who Should File a Sexual Abuse Claim? the Parish Hall and the event was a success.

Patrons bid on over twenty silent auction items Anyone who was sexually abused, on or before July 15, 2021, and believes Ed Tessman, Executive Director of Catholic which ranged from a UCONN basket, donated the Diocese may be responsible for the sexual abuse must file a claim. This Avery’swith Beverages, tin Exit associated Sign that with the includes abuse in from connection any entitytoora activity Ocean 48Willimantic GrandAdvisory Street Charities,12 stated that, “weAvenue could not have done this from the Board ofsexual Catholic Sexual Abuse Claims include but are had their eyesnoton.limited to: sexual misconduct, London, CTthe Willimantic Charities, Niantic, CT Diocese. without New the support of Father Larry, Jelly Belly Machine, Totally Gross Soda everyone touching, inappropriate contact, or sexual comments about a person or other

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FUNERAL HOMES TELEVISION 443-1871 MASS 739-6112

Defending Our FUNERAL HOMES ReligiousWednesday, LibertyApril 6

behaviors that led to abuse, and regardless of whether you thought the behavior was sexual abuse or not.

www.neilanfuneralhome.comWe are called to advocate for the most fundamental

If you haven’t done so already, please voice your opposition to the federal health care mandate of human goods and rights,When in particular, the rightI File Should a Sexual Abuse Claim? to life and the right not only to profess our faith, by calling U.S. Secretary of Health and Human but to live it out. We are advocating for the free- Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell at 202-205Regardless oldandyou arestate today or when your elected representatives.

Let dom to “be Catholic,” to go about our of lives how serv- 5445, 12 Ocean Avenue 48 Grand Streeting the needs of our brothers and sisters, regard- them know that the mandate is in violation of sexual abuse occurred, you need to file New London, CT Niantic, CT less of their race,the creed, or religion, not because our First Amendment right to religious freedom.

Channel 11, WCCT • Channel 20, WTXX • Channel 59, WCTX they are Catholic your claim so that it is received by 5 p.m.

443-1871 739-6112 but because we are Catholic.

(prevailing Eastern Time) on March 15, 2022.

If you do not file a timely Sexual Abuse Claim, you may lose rights against the FIREDiocese ANDRelated Entities, including any right to compensation.

Diocese and against

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Your information will be kept private. For a list of names of clergy 24 Hour Emergency that have been identifiedService in connection with sexual abuse claims, go to Fire, Water and Smoke https://www.norwichdiocese.org/Find/Accused-Clergy.

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The Sexual Abuse Bar Date of March 15, 2022 is not subject to further extension, even if there is a change in the applicable www.mmpct.com statute of limitations. You should consider of submitting a proof of claim even if you believe your claim may be Norwich/Windham County New London, CT subject to an affirmative defense such as a statute of limitations.

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ACT NOW Before Time Runs Out:

Support Catholic Charities of Norwich DONATE YOUR CAR TODAY donationangel.org/ccfsn www.donationangel.org/ccfsn

866-434-1131

You can download and file a claim at the website or call the toll-free number listed below for help on how to file a claim by mail.

File a Proof of Claim.

Have questions?

Call or visit the website for more information.

If your claim is approved, you may receive compensation from the bankruptcy.

MARCH 2022 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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FUNERAL HOMES

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1-855-654-0902 www.neilanfuneralhome.com

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FOUR COUNTY

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