Four County Catholic October 2021

FOUR COUNTY

CATHOLIC United in Fai

VOLUME 33 • NUMBER 9 • OCTOBER 2021 • SERVING THE COUNTIES OF MIDDLESEX • NEW LONDON • TOLLAND • WINDHAM, CT & FISHERS ISLAND, NY

In This Issue page

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“We are living in a time and place where the . . . Christian way of life is attacked and persecuted. I think perhaps the Lord is reminding us all once again to take up the spiritual weapons that he has given to us.”

Fr. Michael Bovino addressing attendees of the 40 Days for Life Kickoff Mass held on September 21st at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick.

“You’ve got to have a sense of humor to stay married these many years. We’re still here and we’re still laughing.”

Anna Karrenberg on how she and her husband Walter have been blessed with a 74-year marriage.

“Being a child in Haiti means many things including getting up early in the morning to go and buy a bucket of water to take a bath. It means keeping your uniform in proper shape because it must be ready for class each day because despite extreme poverty, cleanliness is a priority for attending school.”

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Jimmy Kervens Jean-Felix, Education Liaison and Workshop Coordinator for Outreach to Haiti describing a day in the life of a typical student.

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ON THE COVER

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

ESTABLISHED IN 1989 AND PUBLISHED EACH MONTH EXCEPT JULY.

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Four County Catholic Issue 9, OCTOBER (PE 9934) is published monthly except July by The Diocese of Norwich, 25 Otis Street, Norwich, CT 06360-3613.

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As Catholics, we believe that every life is cherished and chosen from the moment of conception until natural death.

Every person is made in the image and likeness of God – the pre-born, those struggling with illness or disability, those who are reaching the twilight of their life – and so each and every person has inherent dignity. We have included as many articles pertaining to Respect Life month as possible in these pages. More articles and resources can be found on our website NorwichDiocese.org

© Copyright 2021, Diocese of Norwich. All rights reserved.

No content may be reproduced without expressed consent.

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

the poor, and the elderly. As Pope Francis notes in his encyclical Laudato Si, “When October is Respect Life Month. The theme we fail to acknowledge as part of reality the this year is Saint Joseph, Defender of Life. worth of a poor person, a human embryo, In this year of Saint Joseph, we recall how a person with disabilities --to offer just a Joseph protected the infant Jesus and few examples --it becomes difficult to hear His mother Mary. In his apostolic letter, the cry of nature itself.”

“With a Father’s Heart” our Holy Father, Pope Francis wrote, “God trusted Joseph, To combat what Pope Francis has labeled as did Mary, who found in him someone the “throwaway culture”, we need to who would not only save her life but would reemphasize that the human person is a “someone” not a “something”. Humans always provide for her and her child.” are not consumer goods to be discarded.

Saint Joseph, through his devotion and The infant growing in the womb is not faithfulness to the will of God, reveals to just a clump of cells, it is a human person us our own call to show special care for the created in the image and likeness of God. lives of those whom God has entrusted to The same can be said of the poor, the us, the most vulnerable in our midst --the homeless, the migrant, and the elderly. unborn, the poor, the migrant, and the They have a dignity and worth as sons and elderly. daughters of God. My dear sisters and brothers in Christ,

The Catholic Church proclaims that human life is sacred and that the dignity of the human person is the Foundation of a moral vision for society. The catechism states: “Of all visible creatures, only man is able to know and love his creator. He is the only creature on earth that God has willed for its own sake, and he alone is called to share, by knowledge and love, in God’s own life. It was for this end that he was created, and this is the fundamental reason for his dignity.” (CCC, 356). The Catechism continues: “Being in the image of God the human individual possesses the dignity of a person, who is not just something but someone.” (CCC, 357).

The dignity of the human person, the basis of catholic social teaching, is why the church is firm in its defense of the unborn,

Saint Joseph, without ever speaking a word, teaches us how to say yes to life despite our own human weaknesses. He teaches us that faith in God includes believing that He can work through us despite our fears.

During Respect Life Month, in the year of Saint Joseph, how can we become more like Saint Joseph when responding to our brothers and sisters? I invite you to reflect upon these questions –– As I go about my day, do I treat others as the precious creations that God created? How can I be of help to someone who is struggling with a difficult circumstance to show them that God loves them? How do I reassure those that are near the end of life that they are not a burden?

Fortunately, we are a community of faith with the ability to support each other through caring parishes and ministries; and we are a community of prayer. Prayer can move mountains. Prayer can heal.

Prayers can hasten in the recovery from the turmoil and conflict surrounding all life issues. May our Lord and Savior Jesus Christ graciously receive our prayers for a peaceful and just society in His name a society where every life is treated with dignity.

October is also the month of the Rosary.

The Most Holy Rosary of the Blessed Virgin Mary can be more than just a weapon, the Rosary is a healing balm, a meditation on the life of Christ that calms our hearts and strengthens our souls. Our Blessed Mother can aid us in our desire to stand up for life and comfort us when we fall. I encourage you to add the Rosary to your spiritual toolbox.

Let us strive to build a world of inclusion to counter the effects of a throwaway society. May Saint Joseph, Defender of Life, be our model and guide for the defense of every human life.

Thank you for all your efforts to build a culture of life here in the Diocese of Norwich.

Sincerely yours in Christ,

Most Reverend Michael R. Cote Bishop of Norwich

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

Respect Life, Always

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THE MOST REVEREND

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LET FAITH LEAD THE WAY

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

MICHAEL R. COTE, D.D.

BISHOP OF NORWICH

Respete la Vida, Siempre Mis queridos hermanos y hermanas en Cristo, Octubre es el Mes del Respeto a la Vida. El tema de este año es San José, Defensor de la Vida. Recordamos cómo José protegió al Niño Jesús y a su madre María. Nuestro Santo Padre, el Papa Francisco, en su carta apostólica, “Con Corazón de Padre,” escribió: “Dios confió en José, al igual que María, quien encontró en él a alguien que no solo salvaría su vida, sino que siempre la mantendría a ella y a su hijo. “ San José, a través de su devoción y fidelidad a la voluntad de Dios, nos revela nuestro propio llamado a mostrar un cuidado especial por la vida de aquellos a quienes Dios nos ha confiado, los más vulnerables entre nosotros: los no nacidos, los pobres, los migrantes y los ancianos.

La Iglesia Católica proclama que la vida humana es sagrada y que la dignidad de la persona humana es el fundamento de una visión moral de la sociedad. El catecismo dice: “De todas las criaturas visibles, sólo el hombre es capaz de conocer y amar a su Creador. Es la única criatura en la tierra que Dios ha querido por sí misma, y sólo él está llamado a compartir, por el conocimiento y el amor, en la propia vida de Dios. Para este fin fue creado, y esta es la razón fundamental de su dignidad “. (CIC, 356). El Catecismo continúa: “Siendo la imagen de Dios, el individuo humano posee la dignidad de una persona, que no es solo algo, sino alguien.”

(CIC, 357).

La dignidad de la persona humana, base de la doctrina social católica, es la razón por la que la Iglesia se mantiene firme en la defensa de los no nacidos, los pobres y los ancianos. Como señala el Papa Francisco

a otros a través de parroquias y ministerios solidarios; y somos una comunidad de oración. La oración puede mover montañas. La oración puede curar. Las oraciones pueden acelerar la recuperación de la confusión y el conflicto que rodean todos los problemas de la vida. Que Para combatir lo que el Papa Francisco nuestro Señor y Salvador Jesucristo reciba ha llamado la “cultura del descarte”, misericordiosamente nuestras oraciones necesitamos volver a enfatizar que la por una sociedad pacífica y justa en Su persona humana es un “alguien”, no un nombre, una sociedad donde cada vida sea “algo”. Los seres humanos no son bienes de tratada con dignidad. consumo para descartar. El bebé que crece en el útero no es solo un grupo de células, Octubre es también el mes del Rosario. es una persona humana creada a imagen El Rosario de la Santísima Virgen María y semejanza de Dios. Lo mismo puede puede ser más que un arma, el Rosario decirse de los pobres, los que no tienen es un bálsamo curativo, una meditación un hogar, los migrantes y los ancianos. sobre la vida de Cristo que calma Tienen dignidad y valor como hijos e hijas nuestros corazones y fortalece nuestras almas. Nuestra Santísima Madre puede de Dios. ayudarnos en nuestro deseo de defender San José, sin pronunciar palabra alguna, la vida y consolarnos cuando caemos. Les nos enseña a decir sí a la vida a pesar de animo a agregar el Rosario a su caja de nuestras propias debilidades humanas. herramientas espirituales.

Nos enseña que la fe en Dios incluye creer que Él puede obrar a través de nosotros a Esforcémonos por construir un mundo de inclusión para contrarrestar los efectos de pesar de nuestros temores. una sociedad de usar y tirar. Que San José, Durante el Mes del Respeto a la Vida, Defensor de la Vida, sea nuestro modelo y en el año de San José, ¿cómo podemos guía para la defensa de toda vida humana. ser más como San José al responder a nuestros hermanos y hermanas? Les invito Gracias por todos sus esfuerzos para a reflexionar sobre estas preguntas: A construir una cultura de vida aquí en la medida que avanzo en mi día, ¿trato a los Diócesis de Norwich. demás como las preciadas creaciones que Dios creó? ¿Cómo puedo ayudar a alguien que está luchando con una circunstancia Sinceramente en el amor de Cristo, difícil para mostrarle que Dios le ama? ¿Cómo puedo asegurar a aquellos que están cerca del final de la vida que no son una carga? en su encíclica Laudato Si, “Cuando no reconocemos el valor de una persona pobre, un embrión humano, una persona con discapacidad, para dar solo algunos ejemplos, se vuelve difícil escuchar el grito de la naturaleza misma.”

Afortunadamente, somos una comunidad de fe con la capacidad de apoyarnos unos

Michael R. Cote Obispo de Norwich

Vocations Corner Pastoral Assignment

Deacon Jacob Ramos

4th Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Dharen Brochero

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Ruben Garcia Sanchez

3rd Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

New “Metanoia” Lecture Series at UConn

By the time you read this, radio personality and Catholic commentator Gloria Purvis will have already offered her lecture, “Discovering Your Gifts and Mission” at the St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel in Storrs to UConn students and young adults of our diocesan community. Her talk is the first of three in a new Fall lecture series for young adults called “Metanoia.” Sponsored by the Office of Vocations and Campus Ministry at UConn, the Metanoia lecture series will feature speakers of various backgrounds and states of life offering unique personal reflections on the question and meaning of vocation.

In his short book, “Discovering Your Personal Vocation: The Search for Meaning Through the Spiritual Exercises,” Herbert Alphonso reminds us that a fundamental theme that runs through the Bible is “called by name.” He says, “What it amounts to is, I am not one in a crowd for God, I am not a serialized number nor a catalogued card; I am unrepeatable and unique, for God “calls me by name” .

This reality, he says, can be called many things: our personal identity, our personal orientation in life, or our true self. Ultimately, he concludes, what it refers to is our personal vocation, understood as a calling from God to a specific orientation or mission in life.

How often do we restrict the term “vocation” to priestly and religious vocations? My hope in offering this lecture series at St. Thomas Aquinas Chapel is to provide a space for young people on campus and throughout our diocese to actively

question God’s bigger picture and plan for them and their lives. I hope these talks inspire our listeners to look differently (perhaps more profoundly) at themselves and each other. I hope they help them, as Pope Francis says, “to delight in dreaming together.”

I have asked each of our lecturers to address the question of vocation from their unique perspective and experience. They will shed light on their unique journeys of faith and how their relationships with God have opened them up to embracing their true “selves.” They will offer insight into how to practically discern one’s vocation or mission in life as coming from the heart and mind of the One who calls each of us by name.

Again, the Metanoia lectures will be offered in the Chapel of St. Thomas Aquinas on the UConn campus in Storrs, which holds about 250-300 people. Please spread the word. We hope to fill the chapel this Fall with students and young adults from throughout our diocese. I’m grateful to Liza Roach, our diocesan youth minister, for her assistance in spreading the word about these upcoming lectures and being a point of contact for our young people who wish to attend. Please don’t hesitate to reach out to me or her with any questions that you have about the lecture series.

As always, we remember all of our young people in our prayers. May they become increasingly aware of God’s personal plan for them. May they accept it freely and profoundly. May they live it out faithfully and generously. Amen.

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

Mark Johnson

1st Theology Mount Saint Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

- Father Jonathan Ficara, Director of Vocations

MONTHLY

Holy Hour

for Vocations

October 21, 6:00 p.m. Sagrado Corazon, Windham November 18, 6:00 p.m.– St. Paul, Waterford December 16 , 6:00 p.m. – Most Holy Trinity, Pomfret

OCTOBER 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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New Donors Help Annual Catholic Appeal

By Mary Ellen Mahoney

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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any people have told me recently how quickly summer has flown by. I think it’s because with the rescheduling of so many 2020 events, our weekends were full of weddings, showers, bachelorette parties, along with the usual number of graduations, birthdays, and family parties. While so busy with work and social activities, thinking about giving to your favorite charities sometimes takes a backseat. This year, though, I am thrilled to say that was not the case.

As our Annual Catholic Appeal, “One Faith, One Family” enters its last few months, we are happy to report that some of those who had not yet made gifts or pledges, have done so. We realize that although people often plan on making a gift, time gets away from all of

us. So, this year a few weeks ago, we asked our ACA Chairpeople to reach out to a select group of past donors with personal notes.

Thankfully, in the past two weeks, we have received a steady influx of new donations attributable to these notes, amounting to more than $35,000. While this may not seem like a lot to you, given our overall goal of $2.7 million, it is to us. If we continue to receive new donations at this rate, we will exceed our 2021 goal. Every donation is so appreciated as it allows our more than 25 ministries and programs to carry out their missions, doing the work of Jesus Christ in our churches, schools and communities. Whether it be providing spiritual guidance to one struggling with his faith, food to a family with an unemployed parent, or the sacraments to those

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

We are here

in your time of need 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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in a nursing home or hospital, our ministries are there for each of us in a very special way.

After Mass last weekend I spoke to two people who expressed their appreciation of the Annual Catholic Appeal. The first was a woman in her 60s who told me how wonderful her experience with St. Joseph Living Center had been. When her mom needed help, they were there for her, providing compassionate, loving care as well as nourishing her spiritually, with Rosary and Adoration. A second parishioner, a young mom, said how happy she was that her son’s elementary school would be opening and running just as it did last year, during the pandemic.

Like many of our Catholic school parents, she was very grateful for not only the quality faith-based education but also the fact that

the school was small enough to safely maintain in-person learning throughout the pandemic.

As of this writing, the ACA has currently reached 92% of its goal. We have 21 parishes that have met their 2021 goal. Your parish bulletins should contain information about your parish progress towards its goal. If you would like to get the most current information, please feel free to contact our office. If you have not yet made a gift or pledge to the 2021 Annual Catholic Appeal, we would appreciate any size donation.

You may make them online at norwichdiocesedevelopment.org or by contacting our Campaign Manager, Heather Harris at (860) 886-1928 or hharris@ norwichdiocese.net .

Thank you and God Bless you all.

CLERGY APPOINTMENTS

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

Reverend Francis Gilbert, from Parochial Vicar, The St. John Paul II Parish-Moodus and East Hampton, to Parochial Vicar, Divine Mercy Parish-Uncasville, Oakdale, and Quaker Hill.

Effective: September 27, 2021.

Rev. Msgr. Leszek T. Janik, from Vicar General for the Diocese of Norwich and Pastor, Sacred Heart Church, Norwichtown, to Vicar General for the Diocese of Norwich, Pastor, Sacred Heart Church, Norwichtown, and Pastor, Saint Joseph Church, Norwich.

Effective: September 27, 2021.

Reverend James Sucholet from Parochial Vicar, Divine Mercy Parish-Uncasville, Oakdale, and Quaker Hill, to Parochial Vicar, Sacred Heart, Norwichtown, and St. Joseph, Norwich.

Effective: September 27, 2021.

Reverend Peter Langevin, Chancellor

40 DAYS OF OCTOBER !

FCC News Desk

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he Most Reverend Michael R. Cote greeted participants in attendance at the vigil Mass held on September 21st with these words, “I thank you for joining us in this opening mass as we begin our 15th year of participation in the prayerful 40 Days For Life campaign in the Diocese of Norwich. We gather together this evening to pray for the end of the taking of innocent human lives here in our very own community. Tomorrow our prayerful outdoor presence begins, showing our compassion towards those who may find themselves in stressful circumstances, and with the help of God’s grace, hopefully, mothers may turn their hearts into making life affirming decisions.”

Guest homilist Father Michael Bovino reminded all in attendance, as well as those watching the livestream,

about the spiritual weapons that the Lord has provided us.

“Now I suspect that none of you here tonight need to be reminded that we need to fight for the protection of human life. Many of you are and wish to be devoted servants to the Gospel of Life.” He noted that we are, “living in a time and place where the Gospel seems to be opposed more and more each day, where the Christian way of life is attacked and persecuted. I think perhaps the Lord is reminding us all once again to take up the spiritual weapons that he has given to us.”

Whether it be in your home, in your local church, or as a visible witness on the sidewalk in front of Planned Parenthood, we pray that you can find it in your heart to participate in the 40 Days for Life campaign with prayer and fasting to put an end to abortion.

By Fr. Brian Maxwell

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s we celebrate the month of the Most Holy Rosary in October, in honor of Our Blessed Mother, let us offer our Rosary intentions for Her Children. October was the month in which Mary appeared for the last time to the shepherd children in Fatima, urging us to “pray the Rosary every day to obtain peace for the world.” Please join us, the parishioners of our diocese, who are praying every day during October on the sidewalk outside the

Planned Parenthood facility at 12 Case St. in Norwich.

You’re welcome to stop by any day between 6AM - 6PM. And please pray your Rosaries at home and in your Parishes - that mother’s hearts will make a life-affirming decision and for an end to this taking of innocent lives. Love and prayers save lives! Please contact the Norwich 40 Days For Life Team at (860) 8755770 or 40DaysNorwich@ gmail.com

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/40daysforlife to sign up for one hour of prayer at Planned Parenthood and to view the entire vigil Mass, including the homily.

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Vigil Mass Kicks Off 40 Days for Life Campaign

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An Autumn Journey W

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Gina Foster

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ith the arrival of Autumn, I hope that you get to visit your favorite farm or orchard, enjoy a piece of warm apple cobbler and sip your favorite pumpkinspiced coffee. Whether it’s the start of a new school year, a new job or perhaps a residential move, autumn can bring many changes.

A journey can be defined as any course or passage from one stage or experience to another. As “One Faith, One Family,” we pray for the members of our diocese and for our Catholic school students as they continue their journey to grow in Christ’s love as the school year begins. As Pope Francis said, “Let us thank all those who teach in Catholic schools. Educating is an act of love; it is like giving life.”

Our diocesan elementary schools continue to work so hard to provide an exemplary education for our students. They have been faced with ongoing challenges over the past year-and-a-half, but our students, teachers and faculty have remained dedicated and resilient.

“Catholic Schools allow me to teach to the whole child,” Mrs. Jennifer Clark from Saint John School, Old Saybrook, said.

“Not only the intellectual and emotional, but also the spiritual.

It is a privilege to connect with students on a spiritual level.”

Our families are very appreciative of the quality Catholic education their children receive. A parent of a child at Saint Joseph School in Baltic chose the school for its allday pre-kindergarten.

“We fell in love with the teachers, the staff, the school mission and are still enrolled eight grades later,” the parent said.

“The greatest gift you can give your children is that of a good education.”

This year we will hold the 11th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner on Nov. 7 at the Riverhouse in Haddam. This important dinner honors three individuals within the Diocese of Norwich who have made a significant contribution to Catholic education: Director of Faith Events Andrea D. Hoisl; Vicar for the Clergy and Pastor of Saint Michael Parish, Pawcatuck, The Very Reverend Dennis Perkins; and Saint Bernard School teacher Frederic S. Smith. The proceeds from this event help Catholic elementary school students from the diocese with tuition assistance.

Our ACA donations continue to be

extremely important to help all of our ministries carry out their spiritually-affirming and life-changing missions. Your generosity through the pandemic has been inspiring and very much appreciated. We still need your help to make our goal.

To make a contribution to our 2021 ACA “One Faith, One Family,” please go online to www. norwichdiocesedevelopment.org or call Heather Harris in the Office of Development at 860-886-1928. If you would like further information about becoming a sponsor or purchasing tickets for the 11th Annual Seton Scholarship Dinner, please email or call me at gfoster@norwichdiocese.org or 860-886-1928, extension 115.

Stay safe and God bless you.

Caring for the community for nearly 150 years

112 Lafaytte Street, Norwich, CT 060360 p: (860) 887-2538 • UtleyandJones@att.net• www.UtleyandJones.com

Permanent Diaconate Candidates Complete Summer Pastoral Ministries

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o be ordained as a Permanent Deacon in our diocese requires the completion of a five-year program comprising the four dimensions of formation: human, spiritual, intellectual and pastoral.

Candidates are formed in the human and spiritual dimensions by ordained deacons from the diocese. For their intellectual formation they attend four years of virtual classes at the Josephinum Diaconate Institute in Columbus, Ohio. In order to address the pastoral dimension of their formation, candidates must complete three ministries.

Typically candidates perform their ministries for three months from May to July, and this year our candidates completed their second ministry.

Earlier this year, Deacon Dan D’Amelio did a survey to identify areas of need in the diocese. Deacon Dan compiled

a list of areas of pastoral need, and each of our five candidates were assigned to a specific ministry. The candidates were matched to ministries that would be commensurate with their respective skill sets, but in some way be a “stretch” beyond their comfort zone. The ministries varied from soup kitchens to nursing homes to data collection and databases. The results were very profitable, both for the institutions they served and the pastoral formation of the candidates.

Joseph Delaney made weekly trips to a nursing home, offering a Bible study every week and visiting residents in their rooms.

Joe was able to draw residents who rarely socialized out of their rooms, and the director reported that he had a significant effect on one individual who now attends daily Mass.

Help Us Decorate a Tree

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Mark Desrosiers also made an impact in the nursing home that he visited weekly. Many of the residents there suffered from the traumatic effects of COVID-19, such as increased isolation and loneliness. Staff reported that Mark was a “bright spot” in the residents’ day and that he also had a significant effect on one resident who was severely depressed before meeting Mark.

Christopher Hammond cataloged and researched all RCIA resources in the diocese.

He contacted RCIA teams in every parish and identified what resources and programs they currently utilize. This list will eventually be posted on the diocesan website as resources for all diocesan RCIA teams.

David Imhof identified all bereavement support groups within the geographic boundaries of the diocese, including all

Catholic parishes and other church denominations. He cataloged when they meet and how they meet - virtually or in person. This list will also be available as a resource on the diocesan website.

Ronald Krystofic assisted at a soup kitchen with food deliveries, unloading and stocking supplies and other help needed with food item collecting and disbursement. He also served as a van driver and overall “man Friday” who chipped in whenever and wherever needed. The staff greatly appreciated his service.

Each candidate expressed how meaningful their individual experience was for their growth and awareness of the needs of the diocese. Such awareness is exactly what is desired in a deacon.

he Office of Faith Events will be donating two Christmas trees this year to the Festival of Trees at the Wadsworth Atheneum in Hartford. We are still seeking ornaments to help complete our tree entitled “The Nativity”.

If you have a nativity themed ornament/s you would like to donate to adorn this tree, please drop them off at or send to The Office of Faith Events, 199 Broadway, Norwich, CT 06360 by November 19, 2021. Questions? Please email us at faithevents@norwichdiocese.net or give us a call at 860-848-2237 ext. 304

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Deacon Ben LoCasto

9

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Former Chairperson’s Presence Felt at Catholic Charities Golf Tournament

Ralph Monaco

By Sally Velcofsky

C

atholic Charities wrapped up another successful Golf Tournament at Great Neck Country Club on September 13th, 2021. We were blessed with a beautiful day to host 92 golfers, including Bishop Michael Cote, Monsignor Les Janik and Father Kevin Reilly.

This year’s tournament was bittersweet after the sudden passing of Ralph Monaco a few months ago. Ralph served on Catholic Charities Board of Directors and started this tournament 16 years ago. We were most honored to have Ralph’s wife, Dina, join us at the tournament. Bishop Cote gave a touching speech honoring Ralph and presenting her with a beautiful bouquet before kicking off the tournament.

Fast Signs donated a beautiful poster with pictures of Ralph from previous tournaments.

Players from Ralph’s former law firm, Conway, Londregan & Sheehan all wore New York Giants hats with Ralph’s initials to honor their former colleague, and Ralph’s presence was definitely felt all day.

sponsoring this special feature of the tournament.

MJ Sullivan provided a Buick Enclave for the Hole-in-One sponsor this year. Closest to the Pin was sponsored by Waller, Smith and Palmer and St. Patrick’s Church in Mystic.

Longest Drive was sponsored

by Impellitteri-Malia Funeral The festivities began at 11 Home and the Practice Green a.m. with registration and a was sponsored by Norwich Group/ delicious BBQ lunch. Through Ophthalmology the generosity of many local NORWICHLASIK.Com. In individuals and businesses, we addition, we had 12 tee sponsors were able to offer a large array from local businesses and of raffle items as well as several parishes throughout the diocese support our event. silent auction items.

In addition, the golfers were able to help themselves to a handrolled cigar from Connecticut Cigar Company before heading out to the course. A big thank To honor Ralph’s legacy, we all you to A Beautiful Company General Contractors for 10 wore green “Ribbons for Ralph.”

Corporate Sponsors included our Platinum Sponsors, ShopRite of New London and Norwich, and Harp and Dragon of Norwich.

Gold Sponsors were Conway, Londregan & Sheehan, P.C. and Tito’s Handmade Vodka.

Mike Sheehan, Brian Estep, Eric Garfino, and David Estep from Ralph Monaco’s former law firm don New York Giants hats with Ralph’s initials to honor their former colleague.

Bronze Sponsors were Castaldi Financial Solutions, Inc. and Crest Mechanical Services. An unexpected surprise came when Dave and Ann Mortimer, the owners of Great Neck Country Club, presented Catholic

Dina Monaco holding flowers presented to her by Bishop Cote prior to the start of the tournament.

Overall, the tournament was a huge success. We couldn’t have done it without the support and generosity of all our volunteers, our sponsors, local businesses, Brian Langley and Kevin Shea a t Great Neck Country Club and all our golfers. To all of you, we express our most sincere appreciation.

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Charities with a very generous donation that 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

1970

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Bishop Hines retired as Bishop of Norwich on June 17, 1975. Monsignor Daniel P. Reilly, Vicar General of the Diocese of Providence, R.I., was named Bishop.

August 6, 1975, Bishop Daniel P. Reilly was ordained Bishop and installed as Bishop of Norwich. He continued the work of Bishop Hines in the organization and establishment of ministry offices.

1977

The Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s annual membership collection started in parishes, with a major portion of the proceeds donated to Catholic Charities.

Parishes set up a Thanksgiving clothing collection, held yearly until 1986.

1978

The diocese held the first of what would become the Annual Bishop’s Appeal to help finance its educational, spiritual and outreach ministries, including Catholic Charities.

Catholic Charities sponsored a settlement program for two Vietnam families who sought refuge as a result of the Vietnam War.

1983

Catholic Charities and St. James Episcopal Church jointly opened the Covenant Shelter at 42 Jay St., first home to Catholic Charities in 1921.

1984

Father Robert E. McNulty, who held a master’s degree in social work, was named Diocesan Director in 1984 and Monsignor Finnegan retired.

1985

Catholic Charities held an annual meeting June 19 at the Ramada Inn, Norwich.

1986

Sister Carla Hopkins, DHS, who had served as New London District Secretary since 1969, resigned to serve in Haiti. She began her mission to the poor, especially Spanish-speaking people, in 1969. She directed the evolution of the Catholic Charities office. Bishop Reilly presented her the Patrici-Anne Award, the highest Norwich Diocesan honor, for her exemplary dedication to the mission of Catholic Charities and her life as witness to the Gospel message of Jesus.

1980

The Office of Family Life aligned with Catholic Charities and the office was renamed Catholic Charities-Catholic Family Services. Catholic Charities provided professional counseling services.

Continued to next page 12

On the morning of his Consecration, soon to be Bishop Reilly was joined by former Norwich Bishops, Vincent Hines and Bernard Flanagan.

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Bishop Reilly presents the Patrici-Anne Award to Sister Carla Hopkins, DHS. (J. Keller Photo)

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Crowley Club members joyfully celebrate their 60th anniversary and Bishop Daniel P. Reilly’s 53rd birthday at St. Mary Star of the Sea Rectory, New London, May 1981. The Crowley Club was a major supporter of Catholic Charities from its beginning.

Marcella and Isabel Grimes, founding members of the Crowley Club, established the Grimes Trust Fund that had contributed to Catholic Charities through the years. (J. Keller Photo)

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Encountering Jesus in the Eucharist & Everyday Life Free Virtual Women’s Retreat via Zoom

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W

omen from Our Lady Queen of Peace (OLQOP) parish in Coventry and Storrs will hold a free one-day retreat for women on Saturday, October 30, 2021, from 9am-3:30pm entitled: “Encountering Jesus in the Eucharist & Everyday Life.” It will be presented virtually via Zoom.

Archdiocese of Boston. Participants can join in songs and discussions of personal experiences from women of the parish retreat team.

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

The retreat is open to all women, not just from OLQOP parish.

Registration is limited to 50. Women are asked to register by October 23, 2021. The retreat team is looking forward to an enjoyable gathering Participants at the retreat will discuss of women with whom to share their encountering the true presence faith and stories, so register early to of Jesus in the Eucharist at Mass, guarantee a spot at this event.

Eucharistic adoration, and prayer, For questions and to register, then explore encountering Jesus please contact Elizabeth Percy at: in everyday life. There will be an tiggpercy@hotmail.com. engaging talk on the Eucharist

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14

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One Quick Kiss Leads to an Enduring Love Story

T

he chorus of a wellknown 1960’s song goes, “If you want to know if he loves you so, it’s in his kiss.”

After 74 years of marriage, those words are still ringing true for Anna Karrenberg of Colchester.

On New Year’s Eve, 1925, when Anna was 15, she and a girlfriend were walking home when they ran into three neighborhood boys. The two girls exchanged a friendly New Year’s kiss with each of the boys, but there was something special and different about 16-year-old Wally Karrenberg’s kiss. They’ve been kissing ever since. In fact, Anna admitted, “He’s the best kisser I have ever kissed.”

This November 27th, the Karrenbergs will celebrate their 74th wedding anniversary. They were one of several couples honored by Bishop Michael R. Cote during the annual Diocesan Silver and Golden Wedding Anniversary Mass celebrated October 3 at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick.

The secret to the Karrenbergs’ enduring love story, beside lots of kissing, is, said Anna, “We laugh

a lot. We really have a good time.”

Wally has a different interpretation, “She was a good cook,” he said.

Long before he tasted her cooking, Wally knew that Anna was the girl for him. To get her to notice him, he stole a bag of penny candy from her as she stood outside a local variety store in their Manhattan neighborhood. She didn’t appreciate his flirtatious gesture or losing her candy, so to

over a month when his family received word he was a prisoner in a German war camp. During those long 10½ months of hard labor toiling in a German railroad yard wondering if he would ever make it home, it was Wally’s faith in God, lots of prayers, and thoughts of Anna that kept his spirits alive.

Back home Anna was miserable.

“I was a sad sack,” she said. “I didn’t realize how much I loved him until I heard he was missing in action. It was a terrible time.”

The day Anna learned Wally had returned home from the war, she collapsed on the ground from make relief. “When I finally saw him, it up I just stood there looking at him to her until he came over to give me a he wrote kiss. I melted.” The kisses have a letter to apologize. “I figured never stopped. then, he wasn’t so bad,” she Two years later, on Thanksgiving recalled. That letter would spawn Day, 1947, they were married in a long-lasting friendship and love their local church despite her story spanning eight decades. mother’s protestations that Wally There would be more letters while was too short for Anna. It would he was serving as a paratrooper take three proposals before Anna during World War II until they decided to ignore her mother’s stopped, leaving Anna to wonder disapproval and say yes, but Wally why. When she got her answer, was persistent. “She was worth all she could do was scream. waiting for,” he said misty-eyed.

Wally was missing in action for Over the next 74 years, the - Continued on page 18

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin, Catholic Family Services

15

Diocese

Enduring Love of A

By Mary-Jo McLaughlin

O

n the subject of Marriage, Pope Francis has written: “Love is not a feeling. Feelings come and go with the days and weeks. Love is more. It is a commitment to live through good times and difficult ones, through sickness and health, through thick and thin. Love comes from only one source: God. God is the basis of true marriage.”

To celebrate and honor the Sacrament of Marriage and the daily decisions couples make to commit to their spouses, the Diocese recognizes the following couples celebrating anniversaries this year. Thank you for your years of enduring love and the witness you give to others of the fullness and beauty of living a Sacramental Marriage with God at the center of your lives. May God bless your union as you continue your journey of faith and love together.

Four Years

Brian and Kelly Ciezynski, June 3, 2017

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Silver Jubilarians

Michael and Giusy Beaman, September 28, 1996 Jon Godshall and Suzanne Podurgiel November 9, 1996 Joseph and Siobhan Kelly Gordon, June 1, 1996 John and Susan Lucek Hughes, August 26, 1996 Douglas J. and Jeannette L. Kenefick, June 15, 1996 Patrick and Madeleine LeBlanc, February 14, 1996 Mark and Donna Lombardi, November 23, 1996 Don and Julie Lumpkins, December 7, 1996 Mark and Joan Marchione, October 5, 1996 Gary and Mary Martin, August 9, 1996 David and Janet Mayotte, October 5, 1996 Jeff and Patrice Nelson, May 18, 1996 Wladimir and Christine Petruniw, September 22, 1996 Karl and Janice Sentivany, May 25, 1996 Gregory and Carlean Wirt, October 19, 1996

Twenty-six Years

James and Karen MacLean, November 18, 1995 Patrick and Kelly Pothier, April 8, 1995

Thirty Years

John and Cynthia Ramatowski, July 20, 1991

Thirty-three Years 16

Dr. Hema and Dr. Paula DeSilva, June 25, 1988

Thirty-four Years Phillip and Sandy Cote, May 15, 1987

Thirty-five Years

Stephen and Marianne Juber, April 5, 1986 James and Elaine Norowski, May 24, 1986

Thirty-six Years

Douglas and Jan Collard, November 2, 1985

Forty Years

Robert and Doreen Breault, September 19, 1981 John and Jackie Haywood, June 26, 1981 Joseph and Rowena Parzych, September 19, 1981

Forty-five Years

Joseph and Anne Causey, September 4, 1976

Forty-six Years

Gilles and Rosemary Beauregard, October 4, 1975

Golden Jubilarians

Louis and JoAnne Beauvais, August 7, 1971 Deacon Michael and Mary Frances Berstene, June 12, 1971 William R. and Camilla D. Bertsche, June 26, 1971 David and Kathleen Blaney, April 17, 1971 Peter and Sandra Castelli, October 23, 1971 Christopher and MaryAnn Contos, January 9, 1971 Don and Ann Corcoran, August 28, 1971

e Honors

Anniversary Couples

Fifty-one Years

Thomas and Marilyn Butler, February 14, 1970 Charles and Donna Gagne, February 21, 1970

Fifty-two Years

Robert and Jeanne Gawlak, February 14, 1969

Fifty-three Years

Peter and Arlene Bergan, October 26, 1968 Ron and Pat Strom, October 26, 1968

Fifty-nine Years

F. Paul and Elaine Dugas Story, September 15, 1962

Sixty Years

Joseph and Elizabeth Ettl, August 26, 1961 Daniel and Norma Goslicki, August 26, 1961 Jim and Jan Ledwidge, June 24, 1961 Benjamin and Suzanne Podurgiel, July 1, 1961 Thomas and Carol Surprenant, April 7, 1961

Sixty-one Years

Ronald Bruce and Denise Eileen Beaudoin, August 6, 1960

Sixty-three Years

Raymond and Gloria Brosofske, September 13, 1958 Francis and Julia Duquette, October 4, 1958

Sixty-five Years

John and Phyllis Lester, August 11, 1956 William and MaryAnn Maruzo, February 11, 1956 Raymond and Marianne Pavlak, November 24, 1956 John and Jane Sterry, June 30, 1956

Sixty-eight Years

Luigi and Angelina Furno, September 16, 1953

Seventy-four Years

Walter and Anna Karrenberg, November 27, 1947

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Gerald and Judith Donat, October 2, 1971 William and Linda Farrell, September 25, 1971 Anthony M. and Arminda (Mindy) V. Fragoso, October 2, 1971 Wilfred and Nancy Gauthier, September 11, 1971 Edward and Dorothy Greenwold, October 2, 1971 William and Barbara Heine, August 19, 1971 Frank and Rose Herrick, August 28, 1971 Joel and Linda Jakiel, February 13, 1971 Ted and Jan Lambert, September 12, 1971 Daniel and Debra Leone, September 11, 1971 James and Lynda MacKenzie, June 5, 1971 Andre and Sheila Messier, July 31, 1971 Peter and Patricia Morrissey, February 18, 1971 Joseph and Elaine Pelliccio, October 9, 1971 Joseph and Marsha Peters, July 31, 1971 Fred and Judy Pettini, June 5, 1971 Ed and Nancy Pistel, February 19, 1971 Robert and Sally Rychlovsky, December 3, 1971 David and Joan Schmitt, November 6, 1971 Richard W. and Kathleen Lyons Schrum, October 23, 1971 James and Anna Marie Scott, September 25, 1971 Michael and Penela Turano, May 1, 1971 John and Sandra Zajac, September 24, 1971

Fifty-five Years

Pasquale and Barbara Sicignano, October 23, 1966 17

Continued - from page 15

Enduring Love Story

“

Witnessing their been a POW (prisoner playful banter of war) but now back and forth he is a POL – a prisoner of love,” is delightful. If she laughed.

Wally had to do it all over, “You’ve got he said he would to have a sense marry Anna again. of humor to stay married these many “I love her.” he said years. We’re still here and we’re softly.

“Say it like you mean it,” his wife still laughing.” teased back to him.

“I tell Wally that he may have

“

God was watching over us.

7th Annual Bike Ride for Haiti October 11-15, 2021

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Support finishing our new building in Christ Roi (Christ the King) Karrenbergs would see their The team will ride 337 miles over 5 days through five of the six New England share of the usual heartaches and states. Visit St Patrick’s Cathedral greeted by Bishop Cote, along with other disillusionment that most married twinned parishes and sites at a beautiful time of the year . couples experience, but through Any time is fitting for the Come, bike and join the team for a fabulous ride! Even for a day. it all, Wally said, they knew, “God message of peace; in no situation Please donate: call us 860 800-3601 or visit our website Outreachtohaiti.org Do You Want to Win $10,000? was watching over us.” Anna added, Doever Youlacking.

Want to Win $10,000? or send a check to: Outreach to Haiti, 815 Boswell Ave., Norwich, CT 06360 is God’s grace “You have to have patience when Do You you’re married. My mom told me OutreachtoHaiti.org when I got married that I had to Outreach to Haifeed him good and take care of him and I did.”

In August, Anna celebrated her Sponsored

by Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti Drawing on November 27, 2020 at noon 96th birthday, and Wally turned 97 To Outreach to Haibenefit our ministry in Haiti in March. Their family tree boasts Outreach to Hai Outreach to HaiDrawing to be held Friday, November 5, 2021 at 12 Noon four children, 10 grandchildren, at Outreach to Haiti Offices 10 great- and three great great815 Boswell Ave., Norwich, CT Maximum 400 8ckets to be sold grandchildren. The couple, who Drawing on November 27, 2020 at noon Drawing on November 27, 2020 at noon Drawing on November 27, 2020 at noon Winner need not be present attend Guardian Angels Parish in One (1) Prize to be Awarded Colchester, still live in their own st home with support from live-in Dona8on $100 No. 001 caregivers. While they both have Maximum 400 8ckets to be sold Maximum 400 8ckets to be sold Maximum 400 8ckets to be sold medical conditions that limit their Winner need not be present Winner need not be present Winner need not be present mobility, the love between them is clearly visible. Wally smiles as Anna Price applicable taxes Dona8on $100 *Less Dona8on $100 No. 001 recalls stories of their courtship and Dona8on $100 No. 001 To get your ticket call Marie at 860-800-3603 or send your check to Outreach to Haiti 18 early marriage.

Drawing: November 5, 2021 at 12 noon Outreach to Haiti Office 815 Boswell Ave. Norwich, CT 06360

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Check out these great features!

19

OCTOBER

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Sunday, October 3, from 7- 7:45 PM Trashed: A virtual meeting on Human Life, The Environment, and The Migrant

The kickoff event will feature keynote speaker Dr. Patrick Lee, Director of the Center for bioethics at Franciscan University, Steubenville and professor in the Philosophy Dept. To join us use this link https://bit.ly/2Vy3eSk , Meeting number 2632 535 6327, Password: Trashed

Saturday, October 2 & 9 Sunday, October 3 & 10 Honoring the Year of St. Joseph

St. Joseph Church on 120 Cliff Street, Norwich will be holding an exhibition of the parish history at the parish Rectory on Oct. 2nd and 9th after the 4PM mass and Oct 3rd and 10th after the 8:30 AM mass. The exhibit will be open for 2 hours.

All are welcome.

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Tuesdays, October 5, 12, 19, 26, at 3 PM Virtual Rosaries for the month of October

20

October is the month of the rosary. Join us virtually every Tuesday this month to say the rosary together. The third Tuesday will be dedicated to the Rachel Rosary to end abortion. To join the rosary, go to: http://bit.ly/3mogX95, Meeting number 132 196 4253, Password: Mary

Thursday, October 14, at 7- 7:45 PM, 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.

Saturday, October 16, 10 AM – 3 PM St Pius X ‘Fall into the Holiday’ Fair

310 Westfield St., Middletown, CT The Fair will feature a General Raffle as well as Arts and Crafts, Baked Goods, White Elephant, and Refreshments. New items, vendors, and activities for children.

For more information, call 860-347-4441 during Friary Hours M – F 8:30 - 4:30.

Wednesdays, October 20, 27, and 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 860-848-2237 ext. 304 or manicholas@norwichdiocese.net

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

Saturday, October 23, 2021

Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women 65th Annual Convention St. Matthias Church, East Lyme, CT Shawnee Baldwin to speak at Norwich Diocesan Council of Catholic Women’s 65th Annual Convention. Her talk is titled Rooted in Faith: Grounded in Service. She will explore causes and consequences of issues raised in every day news headlines and how service to others can infuse gospel values into our lives. Call or email Judy Pappagallo for more information and a registration form. 860-303-4977 or judypappa@hotmail.com Deadline: Oct. 15, 2021. Registration Fee $25 includes lunch and materials.

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

21 Mercy_Visit_FourCountyCathAd_Sept21_R1.indd 1

7/28/21 9:10 PM

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

OCTOBER 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 another one of the outstanding educational institutions of the diocese.

St. Michael School at West Broad, in Pawcatuck, has been a vibrant part of the community for more than 145 years. The school is summed up in our mission to engage students in a program of Christian formation characterized by a challenging and enriching Catholic Classical curriculum, in a nurturing environment.

So, what is a Catholic Classical curriculum?

Students study the great ideas of Western civilization. Democracy, science, art, and literature provide understanding of how the

past influences and unifies our culture. Great classical literature and primary sources are utilized. Students use memorization and recitation not just to acquire knowledge, but train their minds to learn and remember.

Reading, writing, phonics and vocabulary are emphasized. The study of Latin begins in the early grades and continues through grade eight. As the basis of all the Romance Languages, Latin is beneficial not just to the acquisition of these languages but also to the teaching of logic, grammar and vocabulary.

What does this look like? If you walked through our school you would meet students learning the history of Western civilization and Christianity. You would hear students parsing sentences by chanting and identifying

Add to all this the fact that last year we moved from the building across from the church to a larger building a block away. Our new building, the former West Broad Street School, affords us more space, larger classrooms and plenty of room to grow. And we are growing. Our enrollment is up by 21% since our move and we are excited to welcome new families to our school community.

If you are interested in learning more about Classical education and St. Michael School, we welcome you to visit to see what we have to offer. We’d love to show you!

May God Bless You and Keep you Safe, Dr. Gail Kingston Superintendent of Schools

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

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

Saturday, November 6, 2021 Saturday, December 4, 2021 Saturday, January 22, 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 Open House where you can learn about our academic programs, athletics, campus life and much more.

Saturday, October 23, 2021

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

each part of speech; and you would meet teachers thrilled at how this has benefited the students’ writing skills. You would find students reciting poetry and preparing for our annual Recitation night. In the older grades students will be conjugating Latin verbs, declining Latin nouns and adjectives and achieving success on the National Latin exam, all while learning to think logically and prepare themselves to tackle other languages. You would hear even our younger students reciting their prayers in Latin. You would observe students reading good classical literature, and discussing and recommending books to their classmates; students learning to discuss and debate logically and clearly with evidence using Socratic discussions. You would also meet students learning about and growing in virtue.

Or book a virtual open house tour any time of the year!

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OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

‘Founding Five’ of St. John Paul II School to Complete Their Journey

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In August 2013, St John Paul II Regional Catholic School, a result of the merger between St. Mary and St. John Schools, opened its doors and 17 kindergarten students began their academic journey. Fast forward nine years and that very first kindergarten class is preparing to graduate. Of the 23 eighth-grade students enrolled this year at St. John Paul II, five students – Dory Antaya, Sydney Esteves, Aiden Filush, Billy McKenna, and Oli Obi – began their journey in kindergarten.

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Diocese of Norwich Outreach to Haiti Education Sponsorship Program

A Day in the Life of a Typical “Outreach to Haiti” Student

By Jimmy Kervens Jean-Felix, Education Liaison and Workshop Coordinator and Susan Wallace, Executive Director

immy Kervens Jean-Felix, a member of our staff in Christ the King neighborhood of Haiti’s capital city, Port-au-Prince, was able to attend school and graduate from University thanks to the Education Sponsorship Program Outreach has had for many years.

the morning. If you are not lucky you walk home in the afternoon with an empty stomach and hope one of your parents will by home by 4:00 pm with something for you to eat. Each day you begin anew.

shortages. Our staff in Haiti work together to help our young people to do well in school and to successfully make it to the next grade level or move onto secondary school and then post-secondary school.

In addition, they are always Jimmy recently shared the trials developing special workshops and tribulations that are all Each year, the Diocese of and programs that include part of the everyday experience Norwich Outreach to Haiti self-development, the English of the young men and women works hard to secure sponsors and language, and entrepreneurship who attend school thanks to the Foundations so we can provide Outreach Program. scholarships to more than 200 Please know how very grateful young people to attend primary, Being a child in Haiti means secondary, and post-secondary many things including getting schools (universities) in Haiti. In up early in the morning to go addition to giving scholarships, and buy a bucket of water to take we also provide medical checka bath. It means keeping your ups, support, and food, especially uniform in proper shape because when Haitians are facing food it must be ready for class each day because despite extreme poverty, cleanliness is a priority for PRAYER TO SAINT ROCH attending school. It also means probably having nothing to eat for breakfast before you start your long walk to school, alone and on O Blessed Saint Roch, very steep and over crowed streets.

Patron of the sick, Have pity on those Your parents do not accompany Who lie upon a bed of suffering.

Your power was so great you because they left home even When you were in this world, earlier than you to sell things in That by the sign of the Cross, Many were healed of their diseases. the streets to be able to put a roof Now that you are in heaven, Your power is not less, over your head and something to Offer, then, to God Our sighs and tears eat on the table for dinner, if you And obtain for us that health we seek Through Christ our Lord. Amen. are lucky.

Once you reach school, you know you have the opportunity to learn and grow. You begin to appreciate that school is your most valuable option if you want to rise up from poverty. If you are lucky your school provides a meal at ten in

(Repeat the following 3 times) Saint Roch, pray for us, That we may be preserved From all diseases of body and soul.

O most merciful God, who through an angel promised Saint Roch, that whoever would invoke his name should be preserved from pestilence and contagious disease, grant that through his intercession we may be preserved from all dangers, both of soul and body, through Jesus Christ Our Lord. Amen.

JC

our young people and their parents are to have this wonderful opportunity. Education provides a strong foundation for their lives and will allow them to develop their God given gifts and become who they were meant to become in this life.

We ask you to keep our Haitian young people in your prayers and to consider helping us to ensure their education and the education of those yet to come. God bless you!

Visit OutreachtoHaiti.org OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

J

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Mercy High School Launches New Academic Year

New Teachers Join Highly Regarded Faculty

By Marie C. Kalita new school year is underway at Mercy High School in Middletown.

The 400 students from nearly 50 towns across the state, were greeted by the addition of new faculty members.

“We’re thrilled to welcome outstanding educators to our faculty, who will help us build on a solid foundation of academic excellence and an unwavering commitment to our students,” said Alissa K. DeJonge, ’95, OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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President of Mercy High School. “We take the safety of our students, and everyone on campus, very seriously. For us, education and safety go handin-hand. This year’s COVID-19 mitigation strategies intend to keep our community as healthy as possible and allow our faculty and staff to provide the best instruction and interactions with our students throughout the school building and our athletic facilities.”

(Left to right) Mr. Liam Cahill, English; Mr. Justin Michaud, Math; Mr. Andrew Carroll, Social Studies and World Language (Latin); Ms. Sangita Ray, Science (Physics).

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

Dedicating our love, compassion and service to our community.

By Susan Wallace, Executive Director Outreach to Haiti

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

Sponsoredby bythe the Sponsored Dioces Norwich Diocese ofofNorwich

Classes got underway on September 2nd. There was a palpable excitement to be back on campus to launch this new academic year. COVID mitigation strategies allowed for many Mercy traditions such as the Opening Mass with Bishop Cote and Freshwoman Pin Ceremony to be held in the normal Mercy tradition.

The new members of the faculty in 2021-22 include: Andrew Carroll Social Studies and Latin Having grown up in Franklin, Massachusetts and recently relocated from Colorado to Connecticut, Andrew earned his BA-Classics at UMass Amherst and MA-Classics at University

of Colorado - Boulder. He and his wife are aiming to visit all 423 National Park sites, and they’re on their way!

Liam Cahill English Liam Cahill earned a BS in Accounting and a Master’s of Secondary Education, English, both from Fairfield University.

A native of New York, and a selfdescribed “Shakespeare nerd” Liam is passionate about theatre, theatre studies, playwriting, and music, all of which he views as having a significant place in the English classroom.

Justin Michaud – Math Born and raised in Waterbury, Justin Michaud attended Catholic schools for grammar school and high school. He earned - Continued

The Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, D.D. was the celebrant for the Opening Mass and Freshwomen Pin Ceremony on September 9th at Mercy High School. Prior to Mass, Bishop Cote spoke with the Academic Scholarship winners for the Class of 2025 congratulating them on their outstanding accomplishment and granting the scholarship recipients and all members of the Mercy Class of 2025 well wishes and prayers for a very successful high school experience.

L-R Nida Rana of the Parish of St. Joseph in Hartford; Kayla Johnson of Portland; Abigail Waterman from Durham; Ms. Alissa DeJonge, President of Mercy High School; Bishop Cote; Leilani Doung-Vasquez a member of St. Francis Church in Middletown; Julia Lewis of St. Pius X Church parish in Middletown and Emily Bernard a resident of Portland.

Mercy High School is an AP Capstone Diploma, Catholic diocesan college preparatory high school for young women, where each student is encouraged to recognize the abilities and strengths that will enable her to achieve her potential. Students are inspired to respect the dignity of others and to provide leadership and service that foster community, understanding and compassion in local and global environments. Students attend from across Connecticut, from communities in Hartford, Middlesex, New Haven, and New London counties.

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

a Bachelor’s degree in Business Management, Bachelor’s degree in Psychology, and Master’s degree in Education, all at the University of Connecticut. Justin appreciates the close-knit community/family feeling at Mercy, and looks forward to providing a first-rate education for Mercy students.

Sangita Ray Science Sangita grew up in a small town Alipurduar, India where her father was Vice Principal of the high school in which she studied. Known for her persistence and perseverance, she earned degrees in physics and education from North Bengal University and Calcutta University, earned numerous certificates of merit, and began her teaching career in Bangalore, India. Also an accomplished artist, Sangita looks forward to inspiring, motivating and encouraging a new generation of learners to make a positive impact in the world around them.

Also joining the full-time staff at Mercy High School is: Tori Giannotti Information Technology Assistant/Library and Grant Writer, Advancement Office Tori fondly remembers her years as a student at Mercy High School, Class of 2013. Then, as now, the Branford native is grateful to be part of the Mercy family. She believes it is important to help students with their devices and troubleshoot common problems, so technology won’t obstruct learning. She also looks forward to assisting in the Advancement Office to help Mercy grow. Tori earned Bachelor of Liberal Arts and Master of Public Affairs degrees from Merrimack College.

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By Ryan Blessing ndrea Hoisl, the director of the Diocese of Norwich Office of Faith Events, took time on Saturday, Sept. 18, to sign copies of her children’s book, “Matthew, God and the Corona Virus” at the Merciful Saviour Gift Shop in Colchester. Hoisl said she had wanted to create a book that looked at the pandemic from a child’s perspective and reinforced the presence of God’s love and mercy in our lives, especially in difficult times.

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Hoisl said she wrote the story in one evening, but that divine providence helped her get through a number of roadblocks in getting it published in the weeks and months that followed.

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The book signing on Sept. 18 proved to be a great success, and Hoisl signed copies for dozens of people, including Deacon Dennis Dolan. After receiving the signed book, Dolan eagerly read it with his adoring grandchildren.

A Sign of the Times

Deacon Dennis Dolan reading to his grandchildren Matthew (5) and twins Julia & John (7)

“Matthew, God and the Corona Virus” can be found at Merciful Saviour, Amazon, and Barnes & Noble.

Blessings for New Residents of Saint Mary Place

FCC News Desk

T

he Most Reverend Michael R. Cote offered a blessing to the residents of the new St. Mary Place housing complex during a special ribbon cutting on September 8 in New London.

St. Mary Place, a 20-unit building, opened after The Connection Inc., a nonprofit social services agency, led an extensive two-year renovation of the former St. Mary Star of the Sea Elementary School.

The redevelopment property offers a mix of affordable studio and one-bedroom apartments and The Connection has a 99-year lease of the building from the Diocese of Norwich.

(Photo: The Connection Inc.)

Sacraments 101 + A.M.D.G. +

Volume 13: Marriage Part II

L

ast month we introduced the Sacrament of Matrimony. In doing so, we also entered into the third and final category of the sacraments. First, we covered the Sacraments of Initiation: Baptism, Confirmation, and Holy Eucharist. Then, we looked at the second category, the Sacraments of Healing: Penance (Confession) and Anointing of the Sick. Now, with marriage, we transition into the third and final category, the sacraments at the service of communion: Marriage and Holy Orders.

These two sacraments of Marriage and Holy Orders are given to us by Jesus, among other reasons, in order to help foster communion among God’s people. Marriage is primarily ordered to relationship and communion at the level of the spouses and family, while Holy Orders is ordered primarily toward relationship and communion among the local Christian community, namely, the diocese and the parish family.

Last month we saw how Jesus has elevated the beauty of “natural marriage” to the level of a sacrament by making it a means of sanctifying grace - a channel of divine life - for the married couple. Now we’ll take a closer look at what that means.

The best place to start is by taking a look at both the questions of consent and the vows that take place in a Catholic wedding. Like the other sacraments we’ve covered, where there is always a proper form associated with the sacrament, so too, in Marriage, there is a form or formula which is required for the sacrament to be valid.

Before the couple exchange their vows in the wedding, the minister asks the bride and groom three questions of consent that publicly establish that both the bride and groom know what they are entering into. These vital questions reflect some of the key “ingredients” for a Catholic marriage.

The three questions are: 1.) Have you come here to enter Marriage without coercion; freely and wholeheartedly?

2.) Are you prepared, as you follow the path of Marriage, to love and honor each other for as long as you both shall live?

3.) Are you prepared to accept children lovingly from God and to bring them up according to the law of Christ and His Church?

Immediately after these questions, the bride and groom turn toward each other and exchange their vows, which typically use the following words: “I, N., take you, N., to be my wife/husband. I promise to be faithful to you, in good times and in bad, in sickness and in health, to love you and to honor you all the days of my life.”

Captured in these three questions before consent and in the vows themselves, the Church draws out four elements that define Christian marriage. The four elements are free, total, faithful, and fruitful.

These four qualities “define” for us what Christian marriage is meant to be - they are what the bride and groom promise to one another before God and His Church. These four qualities are what the married couple strives to live out each day for the rest of their lives.

As many of you know very well, these qualities are beautiful but they can, at times, be difficult to live. Therefore, it is important to recall that these four qualities are not given to us at random. Rather, they reveal for us the love that Christ has for His Bride, the Church, especially as He gave Himself on the Cross. There, He gave Himself freely and totally. He was faithful to His Bride even unto death. And lastly, His love on the Cross has proven fruitful, for it was through the Cross that the Church has spread throughout the world, bearing countless spiritual children down through the centuries.

Class is in session...

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

Fr. Michael Bovino

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Fai t h Sparks

By Liza Roach

Change Can Bring Both Challenge and Beauty

By Liza Roach

OCTOBER 2021 | FOUR COUNTY CATHOLIC | NorwichDiocese.org

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all is here, and the beauty of the season is all around us. From the crisp chill that floats in the air to the vibrant colors of the leaves, we know that a new season is coming when these changes begin.

Change is one of the most challenging things for humans to do. If you are like me, the first thing you do when you need to make a change is avoid doing it. I think avoiding what needs to be done will produce the results I want, so I just keep doing what I know is comfortable. Yet, as we have often heard, the definition of insanity is, “Doing the same thing over and over again expecting different results.”

I think this says a lot about our faith life. Often, we hit difficult times when we struggle with church truths or have issues with a homily and instead of

working with it through prayer and conversation, we just step away from Mass, prayer, and our faith.

I have a wonderful mother-in-law, Lee. She and my father-in-law were married for 60 years. They renewed their marriage commitment in the church, and we celebrated the occasion with grand festivity as they marked the success of their marriage through their faith-filled devotion. Shortly after the anniversary, my father-in-law passed away from B-cell Leukemia. After the funeral, Lee left the church. She could not believe in a God that took her husband. She turned inward and stopped communicating with longtime friends or even seeing family. Her faith was shaken.

When I speak with students preparing to receive the Sacrament

of Confirmation, I tell them that they will question their faith and truths.

Yet, when they say ‘yes’ to being confirmed, they are saying they will work on their faith with other members of the Catholic Church like their sponsor, priest, parents, as well as dedicate their time to prayer through attendance at Mass and personal time with God. My mother-in-law still struggles with questions about her faith, but has made room for a pastoral counselor to spend time with her. I pray she opens herself up to the Spirit again soon.

Change does challenge our faith life, but like Fall it can be beautiful when we take the steps to work on our beliefs with God and the faithful Catholics that surround us.

Ignite Your Faith.

Visit NorwichDiocese.org/FaithSparks for additional resources.

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Amen

-JC~MG~

PRAYER INTENTION

All Souls’ Day All Saints’ Day Tuesday, November 2Monday, November 1

We pray that every baptized person may be engaged in evangelization, available to the mission, by being witnesses of a life that has the flavor of the Gospel.

∑∑∑∑ All Souls’ Day Tuesday, November 2

- Pope Francis

Four County Catholic Annual Statement of Ownership 1. Publication Title

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The Four County Catholic 4. Issue Frequency

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_

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9 3 4

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11

09/23/2021

25 Otis Street Norwich, CT 06360

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Contact Person

Wayne Gignac

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14,992

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14,084

14,466

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Mailed Outside-County Paid Subscriptions Stated on PS Form 3541 (Include paid distribution above nominal rate, advertiser’s proof copies, and exchange copies)

14,466

14,084

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14,234

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99%

99%

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Wayne Gignac 25 Otis Street Norwich, CT 06360

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0

0

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14,466

14,084

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0 150

XI certify that 50% of all my distributed copies (electronic and print) are paid above a nominal price.

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150

150 14,234

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350 14,966

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99 %

in the October

Publication not required.

2021 issue of this publication.

Wayne D. Gignac

14,616

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X If the publication is a general publication, publication of this statement is required. Will be printed 18. Signature and Title of Editor, Publisher, Business Manager, or Owner

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FOUR COUNTY

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

PRAYER TO ST. JOSEPH AFTER THE ROSARY Pope Leo XIII, in 1889, composed this prayer and asked that we add it to the end of the Rosary, especially during the month of October, which is dedicated to the Rosary.

Prayer to Saint Joseph To you, O blessed Joseph, do we come in our tribulation, and having implored the help of your most holy Spouse, we confidently invoke your patronage also.

Through that charity which bound you to the Immaculate Virgin Mother of God and through the paternal love with which you embraced the Child Jesus, we humbly beg you graciously to regard the inheritance which Jesus Christ has purchased by His Blood, and with your power and strength to aid us in our necessities.

O most watchful guardian of the Holy Family, defend the chosen children of Jesus Christ; O most loving father, ward off from us every contagion of error and corrupting influence; O our most mighty protector, be kind to us and from heaven assist us in our struggle with the power of darkness.

As once you rescued the Child Jesus from deadly peril, so now protect God’s Holy Church from the snares of the enemy and from all adversity; shield, too, each one of us by your constant protection, so that, supported by your example and your aid, we may be able to live piously, to die in holiness, and to obtain eternal happiness in heaven.

Amen.