Four County Catholic November 2021

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC

Volume 33 • Number 10 • NOVEMBER 2021 • SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

Give thanks to the Lord, for He is good,

His mercy endures forever.

Psalms 118:1

Pomnik Chrystusa Króla Świebodzin, Poland

Solemnity of our Lord Jesus Christ, King of the Universe November 21, 2021

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

­ESTABLISHED IN 1989 AND PUBLISHED EACH MONTH EXCEPT JULY. PUBLISHER

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

Dear Faithful Readers . . .

EDITORIAL OFFICE

The Four County Catholic has been delivered to readers’ mailboxes for 33 years.

Many of you have been with us from the first issue. We are grateful for your generous support and encouragement over the years as we continue our mission of bringing you truthful news with a Catholic perspective.

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DIRECTOR OF COMMUNICATIONS/EXECUTIVE EDITOR

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Happy Thanksgiving

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NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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Four County Catholic Issue 10, NOVEMBER (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

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ON THE COVER The “Monument of Christ the King”, located in

Świebodzin, Poland, is 108 feet tall. The crown is nearly 10 feet tall. It is the second tallest statue of Jesus in the world.

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

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

“They will fight with the Lamb, but the Lamb will conquer them, for He is Lord of lords and King of kings, and those with Him are called, chosen, and faithful.”

Revelation 17:14

our lives in the joy and freedom that How do we serve a King who serves us? comes as a benefit of following our Lord.

We can begin by asking for God’s You can tell that it is Autumn in New England by the leaves on the ground, With our Christian faith repeatedly grace to act and think humbly and then pumpkins on doorsteps, and the attacked in the public square, we can tend serve each other. To do all things from yard signs promoting candidates for to shrink back and compartmentalize a position of love because love is the the upcoming election. One sign in how and when we express our faith. In one thing that cannot be compelled. particular caught my eye –– “No matter other words, we may love Jesus privately, We choose to give and receive it freely; but have trouble expressing it in public otherwise, it is not love. who is elected, Christ is still King.” for fear of reprisal. We are encouraged, This is a fitting reminder that while by this solemnity, to celebrate and live This reminds me of a quote attributed governments come and go, Christ reigns out our faith in public, standing up for to Saint Teresa of Calcutta, “Wash the as King forever. That is why the Church the religious liberty that we are promised plate not because it is dirty nor because you are told to wash it, but because you celebrates the Solemnity of Our Lord in the First Amendment. love the person who will use it next.”

Jesus Christ, King of the Universe, on the last Sunday of each liturgical year. In Lumen gentium, the Dogmatic That is behaving in accord with the Constitution on the Church, a principal King of kings.

This year it is on November 21st. document of the Second Vatican This feast was instituted by Pope Pius Council, the Council teaches that The Solemnity of Christ the King is a XI in 1925 in response to growing the laity has the specific vocation of day for us to rededicate ourselves to the atheism and secularism. In an era making the Church present and active truth of Christ, the Lord of love. Only marked by war, radical ideologies, and in the world. The laity, in this vision, are then will we experience true freedom the rise of totalitarian regimes, Pope bearers of a mission to be the salt of the and a renewal in our Church and in our Pius XI, in his Quas Primas encyclical, earth and the light of the world. (Mt Country. wrote, “the seeds of discord sown far and 5:13-14).

I pray that you and your families have wide; those bitter enmities and rivalries between nations, which still hinder so Living in accordance with the truth is a wonderful Thanksgiving, filled with much the cause of peace; the rebellion not an easy task. Even in the face of health, love and joy. May the blessings of individuals and states against the suffering, Christ’s reign is undefeated, of Almighty God rest upon you. authority of Christ has produced because He and all who emulate Him Sincerely yours in thanksgiving to Christ, testify to the truth. deplorable consequences.”

My dear brothers and sisters in Christ,

This feast, celebrated by the Church for the last 95 years was put forth as an antidote.

And the truth is that He is a King who conquers by love, not by force. This is contrary to the world’s expectation of a king.

We, clergy and laity alike, are called to make God the Father known, to allow Jesus, a meek and humble King whose the love of Jesus Christ to shine forth, greatest act was one of service, sacrificed and to become suitable temples for the Himself for you and me.

Holy Spirit. We are tasked with living

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

Lord of Love

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THE MOST REVEREND

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

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LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

El Señor del Amor

“Harán la guerra al Cordero, pero el Cordero los vencerá, porque es Señor de señores y Rey de reyes, y con él vencerán los suyos, los llamados y elegidos y que se mantienen fieles.” Apocalipsis 17:14 Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo,

Espíritu Santo. Tenemos la tarea de vivir nuestras vidas en el gozo y la libertad que se obtienen como beneficio de seguir a nuestro Señor.

¿Cómo servimos a un Rey que nos sirve?

Podemos comenzar pidiendo la gracia de Dios para actuar y pensar con humildad y luego servirnos los unos a los otros. Hacer Con nuestra fe cristiana atacada todas las cosas desde una posición de repetidamente en la plaza pública, amor porque el amor es lo único que no se podemos tender a retroceder y a separar puede obligar. Elegimos darlo y recibirlo cómo y cuándo expresar nuestra fe. En gratuitamente; de lo contrario, no es amor. otras palabras, podemos amar a Jesús en privado, pero tenemos problemas Esto me recuerda una cita atribuida a Este es un recordatorio apropiado que para expresarlo en público por temor a Santa Teresa de Calcuta: “Lave el plato no mientras que los gobiernos van y vienen, represalias. Esta solemnidad nos alienta porque esté sucio ni porque le digan que Cristo reina como Rey para siempre. Por a celebrar y vivir nuestra fe en público, lo lave, sino porque ama a la persona que eso la Iglesia celebra el último domingo defendiendo la libertad religiosa que se lo usará después.” Eso es comportarse de acuerdo con el Rey de reyes. de cada año litúrgico, la Solemnidad nos promete en la Primera Enmienda. de Nuestro Señor Jesucristo, Rey del Universo, Este año será el 21 de noviembre. En Lumen gentium, la Constitución La solemnidad de Cristo Rey es un día dogmática sobre la Iglesia, un documento para volver a dedicarnos a la verdad de Esta fiesta fue instituida por el Papa Pío principal del Concilio Vaticano II, el Cristo, el Señor del amor. Solo entonces XI en 1925 en respuesta al creciente Concilio enseña que los laicos tienen la experimentaremos una verdadera libertad ateísmo y secularismo. En una era marcada vocación específica de hacer la Iglesia y una renovación en nuestra Iglesia y en por la guerra, las ideologías radicales y el presente y activa en el mundo. Los laicos, nuestro País. surgimiento de regímenes totalitarios, en esta visión, son portadores de la misión en su encíclica Quas Primas, el Papa Pío de ser la sal de la tierra y la luz del mundo. Oro para que usted y su familia tengan un maravilloso Día de Acción de Gracias, XI, escribió, “las semillas de la discordia (Mateo 5: 13-14). lleno de salud, amor y alegría. Que las se sembraron por todas partes; esas amargas enemistades y rivalidades entre Vivir de acuerdo con la verdad no es tarea bendiciones del Dios Todopoderoso naciones, que aún entorpecen tanto la fácil. Incluso frente al sufrimiento, el descansen sobre usted. causa de la paz; la rebelión de individuos y reinado de Cristo es vencedor, porque Él estados contra la autoridad de Cristo han y todos los que lo imitan dan testimonio Sinceramente suyo en acción de la verdad. producido consecuencias lamentables.” de gracias a Cristo, Usted puede ver por las hojas en el suelo, las calabazas en los umbrales de las puertas y los letreros del jardín que promueven a los candidatos para las próximas elecciones que es otoño en Nueva Inglaterra. Un letrero que me llamó la atención: “No importa quién sea elegido, Cristo sigue siendo Rey.”

Esta fiesta, celebrada por la Iglesia durante los últimos 95 años, se propuso como antídoto.

Y la verdad es que Él es un Rey que vence por el amor, no por la fuerza. Esto es contrario a las expectativas del mundo.

Tanto clérigos como laicos estamos Jesús, un Rey manso y humilde cuyo llamados a dar a conocer a Dios Padre, mayor acto fue el del servicio, se sacrificó a dejar brillar el amor de Jesucristo y a por usted y por mí. convertirnos en templos aptos para el

Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich

Vocations Corner

National Vocations Awareness Week

Pastoral Assignment

‘A privileged time of prayer’

Each year, the Catholic Church in the United States dedicates the first full week of November to promoting vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life. It is called National Vocation Awareness Week (NVAW). This year, NVAW will be celebrated on November 7-13, 2021.

NVAW is a special time for us in the Diocese of Norwich to actively promote vocations to the priesthood, diaconate and consecrated life through prayer and education, as well as to renew our prayers Deacon Jacob Ramos and support for those who are considering one of 4th Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary these particular vocations.

Emmitsburg, MD

Dharen Brochero

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Some time ago the bishop of San Bernardo in Chile asked Pope Francis, “What would you say to a young person who at this moment feels a vocation to the priesthood or religious life?” The Pope’s answer was simple, “that he allow himself to be gazed at by Jesus. Jesus is the one who calls, not the priest, nor the bishop or the Pope. It is Jesus who gazes at him with love, who shows him the people, who shows him the needs of the people of God and says, ‘If you wish, come help.’”

Indeed, the Lord continues to call young men and women to follow Him closely, intimately on the path of Christian discipleship. He continues to call them to a unique life of service in the Church. As Pope Francis expressed in his words, the vocation of a priest, deacon or religious is a response to a unique invitation from Jesus.

On the first day of this month, the Church celebrated the Feast of All Saints. On that day, we celebrated the lives of men and women like you and me who actively gave themselves over to a love so Ruben Garcia Sanchez absolute that it became the very basis of who and 3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary what they were and for everything that they said and Emmitsburg, MD did. These men and women were rendered perfect

or holy by God because they availed themselves to the gift of God’s Spirit within them, and by means of Him, carried out faithfully and fully their Godgiven mission or task: their particular vocation.

Alexander Pandolfe

2nd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

So it could be said that NVAW is a privileged time of prayer for all of us in the Diocese of Norwich — a time for us, as Pope Francis says, to “hear His voice, see His face and receive His Spirit.” Furthermore, It is a time for us to pray for those who have yet to hear God’s voice -- the voice of Love -- that tells us Julian Cuervo Theology in the end, to use the words of Saint Cardinal John Mount 2nd Saint Mary Seminary Henry Newman: “I am created to do something or Emmitsburg, MD to be something for which no one else is created; I have a place in God’s counsels, in God’s world, which no one else has…. God knows me and calls me by my name.”

As Fr. Timothy Gallagher, OMV reminds us in his book “Discerning the Will of God: An Ignatian Guide to Christian Decision Making” (my number one recommended book on discernment, by the way), only a person “transformed by Jesus, bearing Jesus in every part of his humanity; a person ever Eric Hosmer 2nd Theology centered on Jesus “with a wonderful love” is a Mount Saint Mary Seminary person ready to discern. Such, then, he says, is Emmitsburg, MD the disposition of a person ready to discern their particular vocation: “the foundational awareness of God’s infinite love for them; the healing encounter with Jesus who loves them to the death to free us of sin and burden; and, at the heart of all, the continuing quest for heartfelt knowledge and growing love for Christ.” May the young people in our community come to this foundational awareness of God’s love for them in the personal gaze of Jesus Christ… may they respond generously with open hearts and Mark Johnson willing spirits if He calls them to the priesthood, 1st Theology diaconate, or consecrated life. Amen Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

- Father Jonathan Ficara, Director of Vocations

MONTHLY

Holy Hour

for Vocations

November 18, 6:00 p.m.– St. Paul, Waterford December 16, 6:00 p.m. – Most Holy Trinity, Pomfret January 20, 6:00 p.m. – Sacred Heart, Groton

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Deacon Larry Barile

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

God-Calls.com

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The Generous Hearts of Our Christophers “To change the world, we must be good to those who cannot repay us.”

-Pope Francis

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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s Thanksgiving approaches, we at the Annual Catholic Appeal are very thankful for all our donors who allow our ministries to do the work of Christ every day. We are very happy to report that we are nearing 94% of our goal with almost 18% of our parishioners donating. We hope that the 72% of you who have yet to donate will consider doing so during this time of Thanksgiving.

While we gather with our families,

we think of those who are less fortunate and are struggling. A small donation to the Annual Catholic Appeal will allow the gift of food, clothing, spiritual support, education, healing, among others, to be shared in the name of Christ.

We are also very thankful that the pandemic continues to diminish and that many of us this year will be joined once again with the extended family we were without last Thanksgiving.

While the

Traditional Monument Lots, Options for Cremated Remains, Chapel Mausoleum Crypts and Family Estate Lots

We are here

effects of the pandemic continue to improve, we are very grateful that we can plan for the return of our ACA events in 2022. We are looking forward to being able to meet with you at our annual Ministry Fair, which has been scheduled for May 15, 2022. While it is still a long way off, we are thrilled that we will be able to host it again. The Ministry Fair unites donors with representatives from our ACA supported ministries, giving people the opportunity to talk about their ministries, field questions from donors and have a nice breakfast.

Another event postponed during the pandemic was our annual Christopher Dinner. The Christopher Society was established in the diocese to recognize those who make valuable and necessary leadership contributions to the Annual Catholic Appeal. Donors who give $1,000 or more are named members of this society. Through

for you

in your time of need

the benefits are eternal Catholic Cemeteries of Norwich To schedule an appointment call 860-887-1019 or visit NorwichDiocese.org

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~ NL ~

this leadership gift they have chosen to carry out the mission of Christ just as, according to legend, St. Christopher did when he carried a little boy across a raging river, allowing him to safely reach the other side.

Members of the Christopher Society contribute a large portion of our Annual Catholic Appeal for which we are extremely grateful. To date this year, there are 588 members of this society, accounting for $1,193,674 in gifts and pledges. Similarly, last year 572 Christophers accounted for $1,190,799 donated to the 2020 Annual Catholic Appeal. We are so pleased that the number of Christophers continues to grow, and acknowledge that without their leadership and generosity the ACA would be far from reaching its goal of providing the necessary support to its ministries. In the last two years, the average Christopher gift was just over $2,000.

If you have not made your gift to the 2021 Annual Catholic Appeal, “One Faith, One Family,” may you please consider doing so when you take account of all you are grateful for this Thanksgiving. You may make your donation online at www. norwichdiocesedevelopment.org or by calling Heather Harris, our Campaign Manager, at 860-8861928 ext. 111. For those of you who have already made your kind gift, we truly thank you. May everyone enjoy a blessed Thanksgiving surrounded by the love of family and Christ.

2021 CCHD Awards Granted

Ride to Rebuild Cyclists Complete 337-mile Virtual Trip Across Haiti

FCC News Desk

Catholic Campaign for Human Development grants were awarded to the following recipients:

Birthright of Greater Norwich, Inc. Community of Hope, Inc. Holy Family Home & Shelter Malta, Inc. St. Vincent de Paul, Middletown

By Susan Wallace

St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich Thames River Community Services Inc. These recipients help provide vital services and initiatives to help lift the lives of low income individuals and families in our communities.

The Catholic Campaign for Human Development is the domestic anti-poverty program of the U.S. Catholic Bishops, working to carry out the mission of Jesus Christ, supported generously by parishioners across the Diocese of Norwich.

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team of riders participated in the 7th Annual Bike Ride for Haiti. This 5-day, 337mile virtual trip across Haiti was from October 11 to 15. The distance represents the mileage from Jérémie on the west coast of Haiti, through the capital city of Port-au-Prince in the middle of the country, to CapHaitien on the north coast.

The Ride to Rebuild began as a way to raise awareness of Haiti and the terrible devastation wrought in the 2010 earthquake and continues so

we can support our brothers and sisters in Haiti.

The ride took place through the eastern and central parts of Connecticut.

Thanks to funds raised through Ride to Rebuild and our many friends and supporters, our staff in Haiti has moved into our new building in Christ Roi (Christ the King) neighborhood of Port-au-Prince.

This building replaces two that we lost in the 2010 earthquake.

Visit OutreachToHaiti.org to Learn More

Please join us for the

Ordination to Holy Priesthood of Reverend Mr. Lawrence J. Barile

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Bishop Cote greets riders at the Cathedral of St. Patrick on the second to the last day of their ride. Pictured here(l to r) Jim Hubert, Bishop Cote, Steve Cuddy, Tom Campbell, Dan O’Sullivan, Susan Wallace, Ron Paine

Martin House, Inc.

Wednesday, December 8, 2021 at 10:30 am

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Volunteers Give Thanksgiving Dinners to Families

By Gina Foster

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NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

s the leaves change color and Thanksgiving approaches, I begin to reflect on the year and count my blessings. I think about everything I am grateful for in my life - a happy and healthy family, a career that I enjoy and a cheerful home.

Grateful can be defined as a feeling or showing an appreciation of kindness; thankful. Let us continue to be grateful as “One Faith, One Family” for all God has bestowed upon us.

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As the seasons change many of us like to limit our trips to the grocery store, consolidate our errands and get extra food and necessities for winter. Unfortunately, for many, these simple tasks are challenging.

Some people are still living on very limited budgets or are unemployed.

Numerous businesses still face hardships, and the cost of living has increased over the past year.

Saint Vincent de Paul Middletown recognizes these difficulties and works hard every day to help those in need.

“Saint Vincent de Paul Middletown’s (SVdPM) Amazing Grace Food Pantry was born from the joining of three

community that share our passion for service, who are willing to be our friends and partners in meeting needs and offering hope to those less fortunate.

Saint Vincent de Paul Middletown is one of the ministries that receives support from our Annual Catholic Appeal. Please contact them at 860-344-0097 or visit their website at https://svdmiddletown.org to make a Thanksgiving donation.

separate agencies 17 years ago,” Peter Keast, director of Special Programs, Community Relations and Development, said. “The Red Cross, the Salvation Army and Saint Vincent de Paul Middletown.

We discovered that we all do a better job of serving those in need when our community works as a team - individuals and agencies bringing their unique talents and experience to the same table.”

A few years later, SVdPM teamed up with many other local agencies, churches, city government partners and businesses to combine all of the Thanksgiving food and turkey drives in our town into one.

Hundreds of volunteers spread out in the community, collecting enough food to provide 1,000 families with complete fixings for a wonderful Thanksgiving dinner.

Volunteers solicit donations, then collect and pack boxes. They sign up families who need grocery support and put the boxes into cars during a drive-through pick-up day.

More volunteers do home delivery to families without transportation or with members in quarantine.

Please also consider making a Thanksgiving monetary gift to the ACA, to help our other ministries carry out their spiritually affirming and life changing missions. To make a contribution to our 2021 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. Have a wonderful Thanksgiving.

At a time of year when we are most inclined to remember to give thanks for all that we have in life, SVdPM counts among our blessings the terrific people in our

Candlelight Concert and Compline

November 21 - 7:30 PM

~ MM ~

All are Welcome

Our Lady Queen of Hope Award Honors Dedicated Women in the Diocese

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

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The 2021 recipient, Elizabeth Percy of Our Lady Queen of Peace parish in Coventry, was nominated for her deep faith and love of her parish. Elizabeth serves as a eucharistic minister and was the children’s CCD teacher. She frequently serves hospitality after Mass and is a prolife representative and certified spiritual director. She also is instrumental in ACTS retreats.

Elizabeth said her desire has always been to serve the Lord with great love and love for His beloved ones. She finds her strength in the Lord and was honored and humbled to receive the Our Lady Queen of Hope Award. She has been privileged to work beside and learn from many women in our diocese that have helped inspire her.

“These women have taught me that in ministry and service we partner with the Lord,” she said. “He can do anything without us, but He chooses to have us cooperate with Him. That’s amazing and awesome. Our Lady, too, is our

Our Lady, Queen of Hope Award Application Name of Nominee:___________________________________________________________ Address:______________________________________________________________________ Phone:________________________ Email:________________________________________ Parish and town:_____________________________________________________________ Pastor’s Signature:___________________________________________________________ (Or pastor can email ahoisl@norwichdiocese.net stating confirmation of this nominee) In 500 words or less and using specific examples please describe why you believe this individual displays the following: A strong faith, a commitment to living out Catholic values, spiritual leadership, and a spirit of love and service to the Catholic Church. Explain her involvement in successful initiatives that have benefited the Church and how she has helped move the parish/diocesan community forward through her vision.

Submit description with this application via email to faithevents@norwichdiocese.net or via US mail to: Bishop Flanagan Ministry Center 199 Broadway Norwich, CT 06360 Nominated by (print name):___________________________________________ Signature:___________________________________________________ Phone number:_______________________ Email:____________________________________ DEADLINE FOR APPLICATION SUBMISSION IS JANUARY 7,

2022.

As St. Teresa of Avila said, ‘Christ has no body now on earth but yours.’”

The deadline to nominate candidates for the 2022 Our Lady Queen of Hope award is January 7, 2022. Nomination forms are available on the Norwich Diocesan website, www.norwichdiocese.org . For more information, please contact the Office of Faith Events at 860-848-2237, ext. 304.

inspiration and our guide. She accompanies us in all we do.”

faith and become involved in their parish.

Elizabeth has found that the Our Lady Queen of Hope Award is a wonderful way to recognize the gifts of the Holy Spirit.

“There is nothing too small or insignificant. The Lord sees and Prayer to the is pleased. His grace abounds to those who say yes in whatever Blessed Virgin Mary capacity they are able,” she said.

“The rewards of service are filled with blessings from the Lord.

Anything done in love for Christ and His Church warms the heart, blesses the soul, and inspires others to do the same. God desires our cooperation with Him to bring hope into our world today. The gifts of the Holy Spirit are many.

Together we are the body of Christ.

“It is a way to honor Our Lady, who inspires and intercedes for those who bring hope and God’s love to those who are struggling or challenged by life’s situations.

She is the companion for all who are dedicated to serving the community.

She encourages women to reach out a helping hand, invest in their

~ DS ~

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

his Spring, during the 2022 Virtual Women’s Conference, the Norwich Diocesan Women’s Conference Committee will vote on and name the recipient of the second annual Our Lady Queen of Hope Award.

The award honors a woman in the diocese for her vision and leadership in the Catholic Church.

Candidates display strong faith, leadership and love, are committed to service and living out Catholic values, have been a part of successful initiatives that benefit the Church and have helped move their parish communities forward.

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Blessed McGivney Prayer Hour

By Garry Beausoleil

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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relic of Blessed Father Michael McGivney will be available for veneration at a Prayer Hour in Plainfield this month.

It will be held at 2 p.m. on Sunday, Nov. 14 at St. John the Apostle Church in Plainfield. All are welcome.

McGivney, who founded the Knights of Columbus, was beatified Oct. 31, 2020.

He was born in Waterbury, and Knights are hopeful that he will be the first American-born Catholic priest to be canonized.

The late 19th century, when McGivney lived, saw for the first time a huge influx of Catholic immigrants to New England and Connecticut.

Faced with widespread discrimination and hatred because of their faith, large numbers of Catholics lived in poverty, confronting problems including homelessness, substance abuse, violence and broken families.

Father Jeffrey Romans, who serves as chaplain for the Connecticut Knights of Columbus, will lead the Holy Hour.

Romans says McGivney was a humble parish priest whose life is an example for Catholics today.

“Having lived the Beatitudes so thoroughly a n d consistently in his own life, Blessed M i c h a e l McGivney has set a model for each of us on our path to holiness,” Romans said.

“In his first encyclical, Deus Caritas Est, Pope Benedict wrote about the need to cultivate ‘a heart that sees’ where love is needed,” Past Supreme Knight Carl Anderson said in an article in Columbia Magazine. “Such a charitable heart was at the center of Father McGivney’s ministry as a parish priest and was the basis for his founding the Knights of Columbus.”

Anderson said Blessed McGivney was determined that the social ills of his day would not overwhelm his parishioners.

“Father McGivney would not allow his parish to become a ghetto, nor would his rectory become a cloister. He would be a parish priest who was in the world, but not of it,” Anderson said.

Anderson added in a 1992 address,

Pope John Paul II said, “Parishes must be centers of charity, open to the spiritual and material needs of the wider community. The time has come to commit the Church’s energies to a new evangelization beginning in the parish, a mission whose fruitfulness depends in no small measure upon the laity.’”

There are 2 million Knights of Columbus members today, with more than 10,000 active councils

in the U.S. serving their parishes and the Church.

Besides the veneration of the relic of Blessed McGivney, the Prayer Hour will include the recitation of the Luminous Mysteries of the Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary.

Garry Beausoleil is a member of Knights of Columbus St. James Council 2883 In Danielson.

Independently Owned and Operated Since 1881

Steve Bennardo

Owner/Funeral Director

~ VA ~

~ MG ~

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25 Main Street, Central Village, CT

860-774-3284

860-564-2147

Program Follows Consecration to St. Joseph

By John Bear

P

ope Francis has declared 2021 as the Year of St. Joseph, the guardian of our Lord and protector of our Church.

On Aug. 17, 14 men from Guardian Angels Parish and from nearby parishes were consecrated to Saint Joseph during a brief consecration ceremony that took place during evening Mass at St. Andrew Church in Colchester.

3) a group consecration ceremony preferably led by a pastor or deacon.

The program should be scheduled to begin on a specific day so that the consecration day falls on a feast

The program generally includes: 1) approximately 30 minutes daily for personal spiritual reading and prayer; 2) six weekly in-person or virtual meetings (via Zoom) for discussion of the daily readings;

day of St. Joseph or our Blessed Lady.

If there are other parishes or Knights of Columbus councils in

the diocese that are interested in offering this program, the K of C Council 6107 at St. Andrew Church in Colchester can be contacted to assist with the preparation.

Experience The Creamery Brook Difference ~ VA ~

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NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

The Knights of Columbus Council 6106 coordinated the program and Deacon Michael Puscas provided spiritual guidance. The 33-day program follows the preparation and consecration to St. Joseph contained in the book “Consecration to St. Joseph, The Wonders of Our Spiritual Father,” written by Fr. Michael Calloway, MIC. The total consecration to St. Joseph is a formal act of filial entrustment to the paternal care of our spiritual father, which helps us to grow in his virtues and holiness. At the time of this writing, over two dozen women from Guardian Angels Parish are participating in the same program with the consecration scheduled for November 2 to coincide with All Saints Day.

11

CATHOLIC CHARITIES CELEBRATES 100 YEARS Providing Help and Creating Hope to Families of All Faiths in Eastern Connecticut

Our History Continues ...

By Jacqueline Keller

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

1990

Bishop Reilly began the first Diocesan Synod. Parish delegates, clergy and advisors participated in sessions and submitted their proposals to Bishop Reilly in 1992. He formally promulgated them May 30, 1993.

Among these was implementing the sacredness of human life, with Catholic Charities as one of the lead ministries.

1994

Father McNulty retired and Mr. John J. “Jack” Smey, MA, MSW, was named executive director.

October 27, 1994 Bishop Reilly was named Bishop of Worcester.

1995

Bishop Daniel A. Hart, Auxiliary Bishop of the Archdiocese of Boston, was named Bishop of Norwich on Sept. 12. He was installed as Norwich’s fourth Bishop on Nov. 1.

1996

The Catholic Charities 75th Anniversary celebration was March 24, with a silent auction and dinner at Port ‘N Starboard at Ocean Beach Park in New London.

Bishop Hart celebrated Mass on May 19 at St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in New London. After the Mass, a reception took place at the Lyman Allyn Art Museum for about 200 invited guests to honor the honorary chairpersons. Proceeds were donated to Catholic Charities.

General Chair: M. Libbe Miceli. New London Board President: Michael J. Pescatello. Honorees: Rosemary and Edward James, Elizabeth James,

12

Pauline Cloutier, President of the Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women, presents a $12,500 donation to Bishop Reilly for Catholic Charities at the May 15, 1993, Annual NDCCW Convention.

(J. Keller Photo)

Infant clothing donated by children and parishioners of Our Lady of the Lakes, Oakdale to the NDCCW Annual Layette collection in May of 1994.

(J. Keller photo)

John J. “Jack” Smey, the first layperson appointed to lead Catholic Charities as executive director.

In 1995, Catholic Charities served 23, 922 individuals and 1,317 households, with total expenses of $273,475. In 1921, the Diocesan Bureau served 35 children, 5 families and had a total expenditure of $1,470.

State and federal requirements and licenses led to restructuring of the Behavioral Health Services program.

Aging buildings that once provided office space over the years were no longer adequate.

Increased funding was necessary.

1997

The Middletown office moved to 553 PortlandCobalt Road, Portland.

Jean Hannifan, receiving applause from Bishop Daniel A. Hart at her retirement party, June 27, 1997, for 33 years as secretary to Diocesan Director Father Robert E. McNulty.

(J. Keller photo)

The Norwich office moved from 4 Bath St. to its current location at 331 Main St. Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Services received its license after a rigorous assessment.

Bishop Hart initiated the Response of Faith Campaign to provide for the increasing financial needs of the diocese. Catholic Charities, Catholic Family Services received $2 million in gifts and pledges.

Jean F. Hannifan, who managed the main office on Bath St. and served as secretary to Diocesan Director Father Robert E. McNulty, retired after 33 years of service. At a retirement party at the Olympic Pizza Restaurant, Norwich, Bishop Hart thanked her, saying, “You have exemplified Catholic Charities - not just as an agency or office - but the sharing of kindness and love of Christ our Lord today.”

Hilda Mathieu retired after years of service to the Willimantic Office of Catholic Charities. She was honored at a Vespers of Thanksgiving Service and reception at Sagrado Corazon de Jesus. Bishop Hart, Father Paul Murdock and Rev. Richard Duval of Willimantic’s Congregational Church took part in the vesper service. Father Washabaugh thanked her, saying, “She saw people as equal. She always saw joy in her work and the situations that came up. She cared for the little people.”

Sister Joanne Companini, IHM, MSW, was appointed supervisor of the Catholic Charities/Family Life Office.

Sister Joanne Companini, IHM, MSW, named Supervisor of Catholic Charities/Catholic Family Services July 20, 1997.

(J. Keller photo)

Bishop Daniel A. Hart upon his installation as the fourth Bishop of Norwich, November 1, 1995.

(Carol Phelps photo)

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Helen McGuire, Sister Carla Hopkins, Father Robert W. Cronin, Ann McHugh Sullivan, Lt. Col. Waldron Higgins, USAF Retired), John Smey, Kay McGuire, Father Robert E. McNulty, Mrs. Grover V. Lassen, Jr.

13

Saint Dymphna Statue Arrives in New London

By Paulina Angulo

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

O

n September 15, parishioners of Saint Brendan the Navigator Catholic Community gathered at St. Joseph Church, New London to welcome the statue of St. Dymphna that was shipped from Puerto Rico.

The statue was carved in Cedrela Odorata, also known as Spanish Cedar, by Mr. A. Vonn Hartung, a renowned Catholic Sacred Art artist. He resides in Puerto Rico but grew up in Connecticut. He is a former parishioner of St. Joseph Church who studied art at the University of Hartford. Most of

Father Mark O’Donnell, pastor of Saint Brendan the Navigator Catholic Community, commissioned the statue of St. Dymphna.

“When I first arrived at St. Joseph Parish almost 10 years ago, I was approached by three parishioners who asked me, ‘Father who is the patron saint for those afflicted with nervous, mental and emotional illness?’” Fr. O’Donnell

th Main Street, Colchester -0079 SaviourGifts.com

14

his works, which include holy paintings, wood carving and mosaic, beautify churches in the Diocese of Norwich. Other works are in Puerto Rico, and the portrait of Blessed Carlos Manuel Rodríguez Santiago is found now hanging inside the Vatican. The artist also taught art classes at Enders Island, Mystic.

~ JP ~

said. Saint Dymphna was his answer.

An Irish saint from the seventh century, Dymphna’s feast day is May 15. Her father killed her because she refused to marry him. She preferred to die than commit a sin. Her father became mentally ill after the death of his beautiful wife, who Dymphna resembled. The devotion to Saint Dymphna has healed people who suffer mental problems.

I would like to thank Father Mark O’Donnell and Mr. A. Vonn Hartung for providing information for this story.

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~ MAM~

Thanking God For All His Blessings

I

t is easy for many of us to give prayerful thanks to God on joyous occasions, but it is also important to give thanks during the trials of life that often face us. This is something I have witnessed first-hand in Haiti, a country that has one challenge after another, some of them due to nature (earthquakes, hurricanes, and tropical storms); others manmade (political unrest, violence, and kidnappings). In just the past five months, the sitting President of Haiti was assassinated in July, a major earthquake struck in August, tropical storms and hurricanes washed over Haiti, and the country is in the throes of COVID-19 and escalating gang violence that includes kidnappings.

“

In spite of all of this, our Haitian brothers and sisters remain steadfast in their faith and have hope that tomorrow will be Prayer is an aspiration better. Nowhere is this more of the heart. It is a evident than with our Haitian simple glance staff who aid the 60,000 men, women and children who live directed to Heaven. It in the neighborhood we serve, is a cry of gratitude and Christ Roi (Christ the King).

love in the midst of trial as well as joy.

The Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti ministry reminds our Haitian brothers and sisters that God has not forgotten them.

Outreach also reflects God’s love to the clergy and parishioners of the Haitian parishes in the Archdiocese

”

– Saint Thérèse of Lisieux

of Port-au-Prince who are part of our twinning program. (Parishes in the Diocese of Norwich and other

U.S. dioceses have twinned with these Haitian parishes to develop meaningful relationships and provide support where it is most needed.)

Outreach to Haiti has been working in Haiti for almost four decades.

We thank God for the many friends and supporters within our diocese and throughout the United States and Canada. Your gifts allow us to offer life-saving support

through our medical clinic, healthcare services and food and nutritional supplement program.

Thanks to you we can provide

Trust in the mercy of God’s love.

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

All calls are confidential.

860-861-4439

See the latest list of retreats on NorwichDiocese.org

~ NL ~

educational scholarships to approximately 200 young people to attend primary, secondary and postsecondary schools.

You as well as our Haitian staff and the Haitians we serve inspire us to thank God for His many blessings and to have hope for today and tomorrow. St. Therese Lisieux, a Carmelite nun, knew “that a grateful heart was one full of prayer…”

In this season and spirit of Thanksgiving, we thank God His blessings which include having generous and committed friends and supporters of our work in Haiti. We ask you to please keep our Haitian friends and Haiti in your prayers so that one day Haitians will have peace and prosperity.

Thank you for your support. If you would like further information about our work or would like to help us, please visit our website https://outreachtohaiti. org or call us at 860-800-3601.

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Susan Wallace

15

Holiday Fairs

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Saturday, November 6, 9 AM –– 7 PM Sunday, November 7, 9:30 AM –– 12:30PM Our Lady of Lourdes Church Annual Christmas Festival Located next to the Ocean State Job Lot Plaza in Gales Ferry

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Saturday, November 13, 10AM –– 6PM Guardian Angels Parish, St. Andrew Church Angels and Snowflakes Christmas Fair Our treasures include handmade knit/crochet items, hand 128 Norwich Ave, Colchester sewn specialty items, Christmas crafts/decorations, religious Booths include: Bake Shop, Baskets and More Raffle, Little articles, a basket raffle, a bake sale, and jewelry galore. Gift Shop with handmade items, Quilters Corner, Christmas Lunch available for purchase.

Treasures, Faith Corner of gently used religious items, Tea Cup Raffle, and local crafters. For more information, contact Friday, November 12, Barbara Gozzo, at 860-208-4121.

6 PM –– 9 PM Saturday, November 13, Friday, November 19, 10 AM –– 2PM 5 PM –– 7 PM Our Lady Queen of Peace Christmas Fair Saturday, November 20, St. Mary Church Hall, 1600 Main St, Coventry 9 AM –– 3 PM St. Peter Church Fair Something for everyone! Beautiful hand-made and craft items. Visit our booths - all items from our Parishioners! 30 St. Peter Lane, Higganum Jewelry, Stitchery, Geppetto’s Wooden crafts, Toys, Country Our Christmas Fair is Back!!! Visa Card Raffle - top prize Store items, Christmas decorations, religious items, and our $2500 gift card. Basket Raffle with 22 baskets for men, bakery of tasty treats. Food Concession available. Also, a women, and children. Holiday Decorations including Small Raffle table of beautiful items so take a chance to win! wreaths and other greenery, Bake Sale, Attic Treasures, and a To- Go kitchen with assorted soups and grinders.

All proceeds to benefit our Parish.

Santa will visit on Saturday! For more info, contact Janice Saturday, November 20, 9 AM –– 3 PM Sentivany at 860-742-6355 or 1teuke@gmail.com.

St. Maurice Church 50th Annual “Sleigh Bells Ring” Fair Saturday, November 13, 32 Hebron Road, Bolton 8 AM –– 2 PM Featuring a Country Store filled with unique gifts! Hand-knit St. Mary Church Yuletide Festival items; “Take-A-Chance” booth; clothes for American Girl 218 Providence Street, Putnam dolls; homemade apple pies! Hot lunch. Over 40 crafters.

Masks required. (860) 295-9254 Hand crafts, baked goods, raffle, cafe and so much more!

Come shop and join in the fun. Sponsored by the Daughters of Isabella.

Calendarof Events Thursday, November 11, at 7- 7:45 PM, and monthly every second Thursday 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.

Sunday, November 21, 3:30- 5 PM Virtual BINGO Great prizes and fun for all ages! Cards are $6 each and will be emailed, BINGO is played online. Only 200 cards will be sold. To register go to http://bit.ly/2Laol7Y Questions? Call Marianne at 860-848-2237, ext. 304 Tuesdays, November 30, and December 7, 14, and 21 Virtual Diocesan Advent Mission Take this opportunity and join Vicar General Msgr. Les Janik and Director of Catholic Family Services Mary- Jo McLaughlin to deepen your faith and take up the call to conversion while you renew your commitment to the newborn Christ and His Church. To register please contact Marianne at 860-848-2237, ext. 304 or manicholas@norwichdiocese.net

Saturday, November 13, from 10- 12:15 Praying Your Goodbyes: A Virtual Bereavement Day of Prayer If you are grieving the loss of a loved one, join us for a virtual workshop and learn ways to grow through the experience of your loss. To register please contact Mary- Jo McLauhglin at 860-848-2237, ext. 312 or mmclaughlin@norwichdiocese.net Tuesday, November 16, at 3 PM Virtual Rosary for Project Rachel Join us virtually the third Tuesday of the month to say the rosary together for Project Rachel for an end to abortion. To join the rosary, go to: http://bit.ly/3mogX95, Meeting number 132 196 4253, Password: Mary Sunday, November 21, from 7- 8 PM Trashed: The Conclusion- A virtual meeting on Human Life, The Environment, and The Migrant This meeting will wrap up the past month’s videos and explorations of these topics. To obtain the link to join this meeting please register by contacting Marianne at manicholas@norwichdiocese.net or 860-848-2237, ext. 304

Virtual BINGO Sunday, November 21, 3:30 - 5 PM Great prizes and fun for all ages! Cards are $6 each and will be emailed, BINGO is played online. Only 200 cards will be sold.

To register go to http://bit.ly/2Laol7Y

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Wednesdays November 3, 10, and 17, at 6:30- 8 PM Virtual Scripture Seminar: Discipleship and the Gospel of St. Mark Bible Study with Dr. Lisa M. Gulino Dr. Gulino will guide participants through the pages of the Gospel of St. Mark. To register contact Marianne at 860-8482237 ext. 304 or manicholas@norwichdiocese.net

Questions? Call Marianne at 860-848-2237, ext. 304 17

Together, We Can Accomplish Great Things

T NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

he holiday season between Thanksgiving and Christmas can be stressful for many.

We try to fit all the extra activities into an already busy schedule while also figuring out how to afford all the extra expenses for food and gifts on an already tight budget.

18

However, we manage to get everything done and celebrate all of our blessings throughout the holidays.

Still, for some of our neighbors, those hardships are tough to overcome. They need extra help to put food on the table or have toys under the Christmas tree for their children.

In order to help families during this time, Catholic Charities asks you to consider making a donation

of non-perishable food items for Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner such as boxed stuffing mix, instant mashed potatoes, gravy, canned vegetables, cranberries, macaroni and cheese, or a grocery gift card. For the children at Christmas, Catholic Charities is collecting new, unwrapped toys or gift cards for kids of all ages.

Donations can be dropped off at any of our four Catholic Charities locations in Norwich: 331 Main St.; New London: 28 Huntington St.; Middletown: 151 Broad St.; Willimantic: 88 Jackson St. For more information, visit our website www.ccfsn.org or call Terri at 860889-8346 ext. 263.

Together, we can provide a stable, joyous holiday season for those who need our help and support.

If we all work together we can accomplish great things. Hebrews 13:16 states, “And do not forget to do good and to share with others, for with such sacrifices God is pleased.”

Thank you for your thoughtful consideration in helping the least among us. Catholic Charities could not continue our mission without your support. As we celebrate our 100 years of service to those in need, we wish you all a very blessed, happy and healthy holiday season.

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NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Check out these great features!

19

Book Offers Hope to Women Journeying Through Widowhood

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin

C

arol Corliss didn’t set out to share her story about widowhood, loss and resiliency. But the Holy Spirit had other ideas for her, and Carol followed its movement in her life.

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

That movement gave birth to a touching and hope-filled book entitled, “Yanking Bittersweet: Stories of Widows Coming to Terms with Grief.”

20

It shares the stories of 21 women who have traveled the often difficult, lonely and challenging journey of widowhood. Each of them, in Carol’s words, was “badly shaken by her loss, but not done in by it.”

She calls the book a ‘window’ into widowhood.

Carol’s own story – one of the 21 vignettes – provides the anchor for the book as she candidly and poignantly shares her own grief journey and the heartache, anger and deepening faith she encountered in integrating her losses into her life. Her first husband, Jim, died when Carol was 36 after 10 years of marriage. Her second husband, Gary, died when she was 62 after 18 years together.

Like the stories she shares in the

book, each of Carol’s losses were different as were the grief processes she experienced. In the book she writes, “It was as if I were two widows in one body.” Jim’s death followed a long battle with cancer that left her a young, single mother raising their son, Jimmy. Their love story, while beautiful, was also pained with sorrow: the couple lost two children to miscarriage and then two others, Mary Kate, at 3 months, and Thomas Patrick, at five weeks of age, to a genetic disorder.

“It was painful to write the part about Jim and the babies and reimmerse myself into that dark period of time in my life,” recalls Carol, who lives in Middletown.

While she was somewhat prepared for the death of Jim and her infant children, Gary’s loss was sudden and unexpected, leaving her emotionally adrift.

“I was completely bewildered when Gary died,” she said. “My vision for retirement and plans for my future Author Carol Corliss signs copies of her book, Yanking Bittersweet, during a were completely changed.”

book signing at her parish, St. Patrick Church, East Hampton. It contains

With Jim’s death, Carol’s concerns the stories of 21 widows, a few of which are members of Carol’s parish. focused on the immediate needs of her son and herself, whereas with Gary’s death she was thrown into unknown territory addressing his death, Carol said that when it came unfinished business ventures. time to write that part of her story,

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

“There were pieces of both of those eras of my life that I had never shared with anybody,” said Carol.

“It was cathartic to put it all down on paper and be honest about how hard all of it was.”

Picking up the pieces of Gary’s life after he died was challenging for her, so she used journaling to process her thoughts and feelings and heal the anger that surfaced over his sudden death. Having spent so much time journaling about Gary’s

“It wrote itself.”

Oftentimes when people experience tragedy, their faith can be shaken and they may turn away from God. The opposite was true for Carol.

Gary’s death strengthened her prayer life and personal relationship with God, as it was God she leaned on during those challenging days of letting go. “I had a strong sense that God was carrying me along…I felt God rushing toward me in so many ways,” Carol said.

commonalities and aspects of loss that are unique to widows.”

Some of the 20 women included in the stories are people she was acquainted with through her parish, St. Patrick’s Church, East Hampton. Family and friends recommended others, and she met a few while travelling.

“I feel so protective of all the women in the book. They have put their story in my hands. They were all so generous and eager to have their story told with the hope they would be a source of hope to other women,” she said.

She finds contentment in knowing the book may be a source of comfort and a motivator for strength for other women. “All along the way, I sensed I had to do something with the grief I was experiencing. I sensed there was a

Yanking Bittersweet, by Carol Corliss of Middletown, is a compilation of 21 stories about widows and the hope and inspiration they offer others experiencing the difficult journey of widowhood. Copies of the book are available on the Amazon and Barnes & Noble websites.

purpose beyond me,” she said.

She hopes that purpose will help enlighten readers to the struggles widows face and that others, “will see from these stories that it is possible to survive great loss with grace and dignity, not bitterness.”

The book is available on both Amazon and Barnes & Noble websites.

~ EB ~

Your son/daughter will succeed.

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

• Located in scenic southeastern Connecticut

860.823.3861

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St. Joseph School New London, CT

“A Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love”

A college prep program that opens the doors to opportunities.

A safe environment with strong Christian values.

Safety precautions in place to ensure the health and safety of all students and staff.

Visit the Virtual Admissions Center admissions@ahfbaltic.org | 54 West Main St. Baltic, CT ahfbaltic.org 860-822-6279

Celebrating 81 Years of Excellence In Catholic Education Grades K-8

Registration is ongoing, please call for information

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

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

It was the Holy Spirit, she says, that nudged her three-and-a-half years ago to start interviewing other widows, discovering common threads – hope, transformation, resiliency, faith and supportive family and friends – between their stories and hers. “It became clear that these women all had something special to say to inform others about what widowhood is and the

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 Linda Marie Joyal, 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

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

St. Joseph School, New London

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

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

My dear friends, This month we highlight Mercy High School, another one of the outstanding educational institutions in the diocese.

Mercy High School is an AP Capstone Diploma, Christ-centered Catholic diocesan college preparatory high school for young women in Middlesex County. In the tradition of the Sisters of Mercy and their Foundress, Catherine McAuley, the vision is for every student to grow academically, spiritually and individually into inspiring, empowered and compassionate women who demonstrate lifelong learning, a moral compass, and awareness of their gifts, while meaningfully benefitting society.

Each student is encouraged to recognize the abilities and strengths that will enable her to achieve her potential. The Mercy private high school charism inspires students and provides a challenging college preparatory academic experience with a strong foundation of Catholic teachings, and traditions and values of the Sisters of Mercy, in a safe and nurturing environment that promotes service, confidence, ethical leadership and respect, encouraging each student to flourish individually while rooted in community Mercy is home to top-notch athletic teams as well as the only all-female robotics team in the region, the TechTigers. The Mercy varsity Math Team finished in first place for four

consecutive years in the Middlesex County Math League. The team is only five years old and earned second place their first year. Mercy graduates achieve success far beyond their high school years.

Mercy alumnae have careers that span all industries and around the globe. Their Women of Mercy magazine (https://www.mercyhigh. com/page/newsletters) lists achievements of current students and details the lives and career paths of graduates. The recent edition spotlights alumnae who have started their own BioTech business, worked on the selection of Fulbright scholars from India and the placement of U.S. Citizens on Fulbright grants in India, have become directors at Google and saw the need for service in the community and created a non-profit organization.

The administrative team is composed of President Alissa DeJonge, a Mercy alumna of the class of 1995, Melissa Bullock, Principal of Academics and Technology and Ann E. Drewry, Principal of Student Life, class of 1997. This team spent time this summer carefully updating the detailed, multi-faceted COVID-19 mitigation plan aimed at assuring the safety of students, faculty and staff. Last year, Mercy opened and continued with in-person classes all year. Classes got underway on Sept.

2 this year, and Mercy continues to provide in-person educational instruction, as well as a full array of extracurricular clubs and activities, including athletics and interscholastic sports.

Mercy will hold their open house for middle and high school students on Sunday, Nov. 7, beginning at 1 p.m. The entrance exam for the Class of 2026 will be given on Nov. 13 and 20. Visit www.mercyhigh.com for more information and to register.

May God bless you and keep you safe.

Dr. Gail Kingston Superintendent of Schools

Mercy_Visit_FourCountyCathAd_Sept21_R1.indd 1

PLACEMENT TEST

7/28/21 9:10 PM

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

Saturday, December 4, 2021 Saturday, January 22, 2022 Saturday, April 30, 2022

Save the Dates!

To register for any of the events, call 860-848-1271 or 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.

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.

Thursday, November 18, 2021 Thursday, January 13, 2022 Saturday, February 5, 2022 Thursday, February 17, 2022

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

COVID mitigation strategies allow for many Mercy traditions such as the Opening Mass with Bishop Cote, Freshwoman Pin Ceremony and Mercy Day to be held in the normal Mercy tradition and a full fall athletic schedule.

This top-rated private high school in our diocese is committed to providing a challenging educational experience in a safe and nurturing environment. The private high school approach responds to individual needs and provides students with the technological and social skills needed in the 21st Century.

23

Academy of the Holy Family Marks Peace One Day with Fun, Unity

By Eleanor Cooper, Iris Gillette, Anna Plascencia, Isabella Wright, Sister M. Rafael, SCMC

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

T

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he students of the Academy of the Holy Family in Baltic celebrated Peace One Day in September. To start off the day, we, as students, prayed the Rosary in the Chapel for peace in the world and freedom from discrimination.

The president of the Human Rights club led a prayer for equality everywhere. Afterwards, we chose to have a snack break. Snack time was a point to come together and share a love of cookies. Although that may sound unimportant, it had a significant impact on our day.

Sharing food is considered an act of friendship across many cultures. It brought us together as a community and it was a peaceful time where we enjoyed delicious cookies and chips and talked to each other about the day.

During Peace One Day, we also had an honorable guest come to talk to us, Ms. Azra Jafari, the first woman mayor in Afghanistan. As a member of the council helping create a constitution, she began to develop talents in serving her people through governmental change. Many of our students were truly inspired by

her story. She worked through the One activity was to write a little opposition from the males in letter of kindness. We all drew Afghanistan as well as an names and wrote to the attempted kidnapping girl chosen, whether we and even bombs knew them well or not. placed on the side of Additionally, there the road to kill her. was a slideshow Through all of these which opened a trials, she brought discussion about improvement to the privileges that city of Nili, including are ours as U.S. paved roads, parks, citizens, which school municipality, some other and healthcare countries are services. During still fighting her work in for. The Salad Afghanistan, Bowl game Ms. Jafari also is a form of influenced men charades in to understand the which slips change she was of paper bringing, a chance about different Azra Jafari, the first woman for women to use human rights mayor in Afghanistan their talents in are chosen to the world. While be acted out by living in the United students. The States, she continues to advocate for challenge of acting out “Justice” women, especially in Afghanistan. and “Freedom” stumped several The afternoon was spent groups. A Kahoot session reviewed participating in group activities The United Nations Constitution having to do with Peace One Day. on Human Rights. For the final activity, we headed up to the gym

to play a game of soccer, which is considered a worldwide favorite sport.

The origins of Peace One Day come from Jeremy Gilley, a filmmaker from the United Kingdom, who changed the world in 1999, when he began his mission to make a day where everyone around the globe would put down their weapons and enjoy a day of complete nonviolence. Finally, in 2001, the nonprofit organization called Peace One Day was recognized by the United Nations, and September 21 was designated as a global ceasefire. Since then, Peace One Day has collaborated with the United Nations Assistance Mission in Afghanistan (UNAMA), the World Health Organisation (WHO), as well as other United Nations agencies. In 2007, 4.5 million Afghan children received the polio vaccine as a result of the worldwide day of peace. As the message of Peace One Day spreads, we pray that harmony between all peoples spreads similarly around the world.

~ DT ~

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The prayer of thanksgiving begins by recognizing that we were thought of before we learned how to think; we were loved before we learned how to love. If we view life like this, then “thank you” becomes the driving force of our day.

St. John Paul II Regional Catholic School 87 South Main Street / Middletown, CT 06457 Telephone: 860-347-2978 / www.jpii.org 25

Saint Bernard School Students Are Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars

By Kim Hodges

S

aint Bernard seniors Angeljolee “Jojo” Carter and JoseManuel “Manny” Castillo have been named as two of the 2021 Dr. Martin Luther King Jr. Scholars. They will each receive a $20,000 scholarship from the Scholarship Trust to attend a college of their choice.

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Jojo Carter has been aware of the MLK scholarship since she was a young child and knew that she would apply for it in her junior year of high school. “When I won the scholarship, I was speechless,” Carter said. Her parents were with her during the Zoom meeting when it was announced, and she said the

26

room was full of joy when they all heard the good news.

Carter came to Saint Bernard School after graduating from Saint Joseph School in New London.

When applying and interviewing for the scholarship, Jojo said she was able to draw upon the skills and experiences that she has learned in the classroom at Saint B’s. She is incredibly grateful to her English teachers, who have helped her to become a more sophisticated public speaker and a strong writer.

These are two skills she knows will help her in college and throughout life. In the short term, her writing skills will be put to good use when

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applying for other scholarships and with her college applications.

Jojo is planning to major in criminal justice and is considering schools in the Boston area such as Northeastern University, Boston College, and Boston University.

When the scholarship committee contacted Manny for an additional meeting, he thought they wanted more information from him.

Manny had no idea they were going to tell him he was a scholarship winner. When he heard that he was a scholarship recipient he was speechless. “All I could say was, ‘Thank you, thank you.’”

Manny said all of his life his mom has been telling him to work to the

best of his ability and to apply for scholarships. Her support and encouragement has given Manny the drive to do well academically and reach high.

“My first scholarship was to Sacred Heart School in Groton. Then, I received a scholarship to attend Saint Bernard School. Now, with the MLK scholarship, I will be able to go to a four-year college,” Castillo said.

He plans to study computer science at the University of Connecticut.

The faculty and staff of St. Bernard School is incredibly proud of both scholarship recipients. They truly exemplify the school’s mission of ‘Scholarship, Spirit, and Community.’

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Xavier Students Remember 9-11 Tragedy

A

ll of the current Xavier High School students were born after the terrorist attacks on Sept. 11, 2001 that killed about 3,000 people, but that did not stop the youths from marking the anniversary of that terrible day.

The Xavier school day always opens with prayer, and on that morning there was a special one by the Peer Ministers. Principal Brendan Donohue reminded the students of the 9/11 memorial flag that hangs on the wall outside of the Brothers’ residence, and the photo of 1986 graduate Peter Gelinas that hangs on a wall across from the chapel. Gelinas was killed in the World Trade Center attacks. and friends. Console them in their grief, especially on this difficult day of remembrance. Fill them with hope in your promise of eternal life for those who do your will. In a special way, we pray for the repose of the soul of Peter Gelinas, Xavier alum from the Class of 1986, who died in the attacks.”

After school in the chapel a rosary was recited to commemorate the 20th anniversary of 9/11.

Gelinas worked in New York City for Cantor Fitzgerald. He played football all four years at Xavier and was a captain in 1985. At the football banquet in his senior year, Gelinas won the Larry McHugh Senior Award. He was active at Xavier in other ways: Homeroom representative as a freshman and sophomore, baseball as a freshman, junior volunteer and junior retreat in his third year here; and XLI Institute as a senior.

This is the first of two national celebrations, this school year, marking the importance and value of Catholic education in our nation. These celebrations have been designated as an opportunity both to recognize the excellence of our Catholic Schools and to showcase what makes Catholic education a unique and worthy investment of our time, talent, and treasure.

The end of the prayer Friday morning at Xavier: “Allow us to work toward peace rather than war; justice rather than revenge; and forgiveness rather than hatred.

Give our leaders the wisdom to keep us secure while striving for lasting peace. Guide our hearts to seek you even in life’s tragedies.

Bring an end to terrorism and grant us peace in our hearts, our homes, our communities, our nation, and our world.”

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Part of the prayer read on Sept. 10: “Heavenly Father, Creator of all people and all nations, it is with deep sorrow that we remember the tragic events that occurred on September 11, 2001. We lift to you in prayer all those who died at the World Trade Center, at the Pentagon, and on United Airlines Flight 93. We entrust them to your care and ask you to bring them into your loving presence in heaven, where they will find peace and rest in your kingdom. Continue to bring healing and comfort to their families

Peter Gelinas Class of 1986

~ MAM~

27

November 14 thru November 20

Learn more about our Catholic schools and how you can help to support them in their mission of educating our young people. Visit NorwichDSO.org to find the list of Catholic schools in the Diocese of Norwich.

Novena to Christ the King Almighty and merciful God, you break the power of evil and make all things new in your Son Jesus Christ, the King of the universe. May all in heaven and earth acclaim your glory and never cease to praise you.

We ask this through our Lord Jesus Christ, your Son, who lives and reigns with you and the Holy Spirit, one God, for ever and ever. Amen.

Recite One Our Father, One Hail Mary and One Glory Be per day followed by the Novena Prayer:

O Lord our God, You alone are the Most Holy King and Ruler of all nations.

We pray to You, Lord, in the great expectation of receiving from You, O Divine King, mercy, peace, justice and all good things.

Protect, O Lord our King, our families and the land of our birth.

Guard us we pray Most Faithful One. Protect us from our enemies and from Your Just Judgment Forgive us, O Sovereign King, our sins against you.

Jesus, You are a King of Mercy.

We have deserved Your Just Judgment Have mercy on us, Lord, and forgive us.

We trust in Your Great Mercy.

O most awe-inspiring King, we bow before You and pray; NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

May Your Reign, Your Kingdom, be recognized on earth.

28

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

Visit the websites below to see how you can help.

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Fai t h Sparks

Thankful and Blessed:

New Traditions to Reinforce Thankfulness

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Andrea Hoisl

30

This is the time of year when we typically give thanks for all the blessings in our lives.

Thanksgiving reminds us to pause and examine all that we’ve been gifted by God. We marvel throughout the month at God’s bounty and generosity – blessing each one of us in innumerable ways, whether we deserve it or not. But the practice of only thinking about this around Thanksgiving needs to be changed. We need to try to infuse thankful contemplation into our lives throughout the year.

Being grateful and thankful is a practice that not only glorifies God for all God does for us, but also helps us acknowledge all the people in our lives who help us grow and become better Christians every day. Without our family, friends, neighbors, and yes even strangers, we would not be the people we are today.

Everyone we encounter blesses

our lives in some way. They may challenge us to do more and be more or perhaps they are living examples for us of what not to do. We also need to consider that God may have placed us in their lives to help them be more and do more than they thought possible for themselves.

We should all strive to make every month a thankful one by establishing rituals that serve as a reminder of the importance of gratitude. This is especially true for our children, who learn best through hands-on activities and tradition.

Each month, start a new ritual of conscious gratefulness appreciating the unique challenges and joys each month brings into your life.

Some practical ideas include: ● In December, make a paper chain or garland to put around the tree with things you are thankful for written on the inside of each link.

● In January, take a five-minute walk once a week to look for the beauty of creation. Even in the darkness of winter we can find some gorgeous stars shining brightly. ● In February, use love to remember everyone in your life who has been an example of love for you to follow. I’m sure it will take all month to complete that list. ● In March, start a seed garden in your kitchen in paper cups to bring the beauty of creation into your house. How lucky we are to have all that nature provides for us on a daily basis. ● April of course brings spring, a time to plant seeds of gratitude.

Create a gratitude garden where every plant/seed represents something or someone for whom you are grateful. ● May is filled with sunshine and warm breezes, the perfect month to remember all the things your

mom, and the significant women in your life, have done to make you the person you are today. ● And June is the month to do the same with your dad and the significant men in your life. ● As summer enfolds into July and August, family outings, trips to the beach and outdoor dining are great opportunities to celebrate all the intangible blessings in your life, like the freedoms many may take for granted. ● September and October bring a return to school and the Autumn season allows us to remember and thank all the teachers and mentors who have helped shape us as individuals.

Of course, all these new traditions start with the foundation of God’s gift of life, unconditional love, and endless mercy – all of which we should give praise every day.

Ignite Your Faith.

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks for additional resources.

Advent

Sunday, November 28, 2021 - Friday, December 24, 2021 The Advent season is a time of preparation that directs our hearts and minds to Christ’s second coming at the end of time and to the anniversary of Our Lord’s birth on Christmas. From the earliest days of the Church, people have been fascinated by Jesus’ promise to come back. But the scripture readings during Advent tell us not to waste our time with predictions. Advent is not about speculation. Our Advent readings call us to be alert and ready, not weighted down and distracted by the cares of this world (Lk 21:34-36). Like Lent, the liturgical color for Advent is purple since both are seasons that prepare us for great feast days. Advent also includes an element of penance in the sense of preparing, quieting, and disciplining our hearts for the full joy of Christmas.

T

he use of the Advent Wreath is a traditional practice which has found its place in the Church as well as in the home. The blessing of an Advent Wreath takes place on the First Sunday of Advent or on the evening before the First Sunday of Advent. When the blessing of the Advent Wreath is celebrated in the home, it is appropriate that it be blessed by a parent or another member of the family.

All make the sign of the cross as the leader says: Our help is in the name of the Lord.

Response (R/.) Who made heaven and earth.

Then the Scripture, Isaiah 9: (lines 1-2 and 5-6) or Isaiah 63 (lines 16-17 & 19) or Isaiah 64 (lines 2-7) is read:

Reader: The Word of the Lord.

R/. Thanks be to God. With hands joined, the leader says: Lord our God, we praise you for your Son, Jesus Christ: He is Emmanuel, the hope of the peoples, He is the wisdom that teaches and guides us, He is the Savior of every nation. Lord God, let your blessing come upon us as we light the candles of this wreath.

May the wreath and its light be a sign of Christ’s promise to bring us salvation. May He come quickly and not delay. We ask this through Christ our Lord.

R/. Amen.

The blessing may conclude with a verse from “O Come, O Come, Emmanuel”: O come, desire of nations, bind in one the hearts of humankind; bid ev’ry sad division cease and be thyself our Prince of peace. Rejoice! Rejoice! Emmanuel shall come to thee, O Israel.

Blessing of the Advent Wreath taken from Catholic Household Blessings and Prayers, Revised Edition (Washington, DC: USCCB, 2007), 73-75. Copyright © 2007, United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, Washington, DC. All rights reserved.

Virtual Diocesan Advent Mission Tuesdays, November 30, and December 7, 14, and 21 Take this opportunity and join Vicar General Msgr.

Les Janik and Director of Catholic Family Services Mary- Jo McLaughlin to deepen your faith and take up the call to conversion while you renew your commitment to the newborn Christ and His Church.

To register please contact Marianne at 860-848-2237, ext. 304 or manicholas@norwichdiocese.net

NOVEMBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Excerpted from USCCB.org

31

FOUR COUNTY

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

Legal Professionals

Consecrated Life

Administrative Assistants

PRAYER

Love On behalf of the entire Diocese, I extend a special thank you to the brave and dedicated men and women of Healthcare, our Military, Law Enforcement, Firefighters, First Responders, Legal Professionals, Educators, Administrative Assistants, those serving in Ministry and Consecrated men and women for answering God’s call to

“Love your neighbor as yourself” (Mark 12:31)

I pray you have a happy and blessed Thanksgiving.

Sincerely yours in the charity of Christ,

Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich