Four County Catholic December 2015 by Diocese of Norwich

God's Mercy Transforms Hearts. Volume 27 Number 11

December 2015

The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich officially opened the Holy Door at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, December 13, 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; inaugurating the Holy Year of Mercy

December 8, 2015 ~ November 13, 2016

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Four County Catholic December 2015

I am the gate. - John 10:9 -- Sister Elissa Rinere noting the scriptural reference to Jesus inherent in the Holy Door symbolism as we begin the Holy Year of Mercy.

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Volum e 27 Nu mber 11 Decemb er 201 5

God's M Transfor ercy ms Hear ts.

“Holy Door of Mercy” at Cathedral of St. Patrick officially opened for the Holy Year of Mercy. Diocese also has designated a Holy Door of Mercy at St. John Church in Middletown. Photo by Trina Fulton.

The Most Revere Bisho nd p of th Norw Michael Decem e Holy Do ich off R. Co ber 13, or at te, ici the 2015 Cathed ally ope D.D., – ina ned ugura ral of ting St. the Holy Patrick, Year of Me rcy

December 8, 2015

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- Father Gregory Galvin, Diocesan Director of Priestly Vocations, relaying the true spirit of Christmas.

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Four County Catholic December 2015

The Most Reverend

Michael R. Cote, D.D.

Bishop of Norwich

A True Moment of Encounter with the Mercy of God “The Church must be a place of mercy freely given, where everyone can feel welcomed, loved, forgiven, and encouraged to live the good life of the Gospel.”

Evangelii Gaudium, Pope Francis

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: This past Sunday, we officially opened the Jubilee Year of Mercy here in the Diocese with a special celebration of the Eucharist at the Cathedral of St. Patrick. As declared by the Holy Father, Pope Francis, this historic Holy Year will extend from December 8, 2015 through November 13, 2016. Following the opening ceremonies conducted by Pope Francis a few days ago at St. Peter’s Basilica in Rome, I had the honor of opening the designated Door of Mercy in our own Cathedral witnessed by parishioners, representing each of the 76 parishes in the Diocese. Here, as in Rome and across the world, the message of the Holy Father serves as a universal invitation: “Anyone who enters will experience the love of God who consoles, pardons and instills hope.” With this hopeful message,

the door has been opened to walk through and experience God’s mercy. You will want to read, in this same issue, Sister Elissa Rinere’s historical account of the Holy Door tradition as a symbol of renewed intention of journeying with Christ. As we so painfully try to comprehend the horror of Christian persecution across the Middle East, the murder of innocent people in Paris, onboard a Russian airliner, in Mali, Colorado Springs, San Bernardino and other targets of terror, our faith assures us that the mercy of God will ultimately overcome hatred wherever it erupts. We grieve and pray together as we begin our year-long journey of mercy, in a world that needs to discover that mercy not cruelty is the way. Taken from the Gospel of Luke (6:36), the central Holy Year theme, “Merciful like the Father,”

beckons us to follow the merciful example of the Father who asks us not to judge or condemn but to forgive and to love. This is where the sacrament of reconciliation becomes integral to the Year of Mercy. The Sacrament of Reconciliation is one of the most profound gifts of our faith. Jesus Christ, in His abundant love and mercy, established the Sacrament so that we as sinners can obtain forgiveness for our sins and reconcile with God and the Church. We are reminded and encouraged during the Holy Year to seek forgiveness and grace through Penance. Each Parish, with the assistance of their commissioned disciples of mercy, will work with the Diocesan Holy Year Committee to help organize parish activities honoring the spirit of the journey of mercy. Some parishes have already begun, as has Saints Peter & Paul Parish, to initiate divine mercy prayer

hours devoted to the mission of mercy of this special year. In addition to individual parish activities, the ongoing work of the diocesan ministries also gives daily witness to both the corporal and spiritual works of mercy that apply to our everyday lives. This is an exceptional moment for each one of us in our caring community of faith to pitch-in more than ever to help our ministries feed the hungry and the thirsty, clothe and shelter the homeless, care for and visit the sick and imprisoned as per the corporal works of mercy. It is also a time to rededicate ourselves to the spiritual works of mercy to help convert sinners, instruct and comfort the sorrowful, doubtful and uninformed, to exercise patience and forgiveness when wronged, and to always pray for the living and the dead. Mercy, extended to the most vulnerable, most in need and

those misguided is the core message of Pope Francis delivered to us at a dangerous and tumultuous time in history. It is a message at the heart of the ministry of Jesus Christ. It is a message that will help re-center our thinking with respect to caring for one another across the human family. One person can make a difference. One parish can make a difference. The Diocese of Norwich can make a difference. The universal Church drawing on the Gospel of Mercy can and will make a difference to help heal and calm turbulence in the world. Lord, hear our prayer as we walk through the Open Door of Mercy, renewed and believing so strongly that “The mercy of God is able to transform hearts”. Sincerely yours in Christ’s love, Bishop Michael R. Cote

Un Verdadero Momento de Encuentro con la Misericordia de Dios “La Iglesia debe ser un lugar de misericordia dada libremente, donde todos puedan sentirse acogidos, amados, perdonados, y animados a vivir la buena vida del Evangelio.” Evangeli Gaudium, Papa Francisco Queridos Hermanos y Hermanas: Este domingo pasado, oficialmente inauguramos aquí en la diócesis el aniversario del Año de la Misericordia con una celebración especial de la Eucaristía en la Catedral de Saint Patrick. Como declarado por el Santo Padre, el Papa Francisco, este histórico Año Santo se extenderá desde el 8 de diciembre del 2015 hasta el 13 de noviembre del 2016.

Tras las ceremonias de apertura realizadas por el Papa Francisco hace unos días en San Pedro en Roma, tuve el honor de abrir la designada puerta de la Misericordia en nuestra propia Catedral presenciada por los feligreses, representando a cada una de las 76 parroquias de la diócesis. Aquí, como en Roma y en todo el mundo, el mensaje del Santo Padre sirve como una invitación

universal. “Cualquiera que entre experimentará el amor de Dios, que consuela, perdona e inspira esperanza”. Con este mensaje de esperanza, la puerta ha sido abierta para caminar y experimentar la misericordia de Dios. Usted querrá leer, en este mismo número, el recuento histórico de la hermana Elissa Rinere de la tradición de la Puerta Santa como símbolo de la renovada intención de caminar

con Cristo. A medida que tan dolorosamente tratamos de comprender el horror de la persecución cristiana en todo el Oriente Medio, el asesinato de personas inocentes en París, a bordo de un avión de pasajeros ruso, en Mali, Colorado Springs, San Bernardino y otros elegidos como blancos de terror, nuestra fe nos asegura que la misericordia de Dios en última instan-

cia, superará el odio dondequiera que estalle. En un mundo que necesita descubrir que la misericordia no la crueldad es el camino, nos afligimos y oramos juntos al comenzar nuestro largo viaje de un año de misericordia. Tomado del Evangelio de San Lucas (6:36), el tema central del Año Santo, “Misericordioso como Un Verdadero Momento de Encuentro

Continued on page 4

Four County Catholic December 2015

Un Verdadero Momento de Encuentro el Padre”, nos llama a seguir el ejemplo misericordioso del Padre que nos pide no juzgar o condenar, sino perdonar y amar. Aquí es donde el sacramento de la reconciliación se convierte en parte integral del Año de la Misericordia. El sacramento de la reconciliación es uno de los más profundos dones de nuestra fe. Jesucristo, en su gran amor y misericordia, estableció el sacramento para que nosotros como pecadores podamos obtener el perdón de nuestros pecados y reconciliarnos con Dios y la Iglesia. Se nos recuerda y anima durante el Año Santo a buscar el perdón y la gracia a través de la Penitencia. Cada parroquia, con la ayuda de sus discípulos encargados de la misericordia, trabajará con el comité diocesano del Año Santo para ayudar a organizar actividades de la parroquia en honor al espíritu del viaje de la misericordia. Algunas parroquias como Saint Peter and Saint Paul, ya han comenzado a iniciar horas regu-

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lares de oración dedicadas a la misión de este año especial de la misericordia. Además de las actividades parroquiales individuales, el trabajo en curso de los ministerios diocesanos también da testimonio diario tanto a las obras de misericordia corporal y espiritual que ayudan a aplicar los principios de misericordia a nuestra vida cotidiana. Este es un momento excepcional para cada uno de nosotros en nuestra comunidad solidaria más que nunca para ayudar a nuestros ministerios según las obras de misericordia corporal dar de comer a los hambrientos y sedientos, vestir y albergar a las personas sin hogar, cuidar y visitar a los enfermos y encarcelados. Es también un tiempo para volver a dedicarnos a las obras de misericordia espiritual para ayudar a convertir a los pecadores, instruir y consolar a los afligidos, confundidos e ignorantes, a ejercitar la paciencia y el perdón cuando hemos sido perjudicados, y a orar siempre por los vivos y los muertos. Misericordia, extendida a los más vulnerables, más necesitados y

Continued from page 3

equivocados es el mensaje central del Papa Francisco entregado a nosotros en un momento peligroso y tumultuoso en la historia. Es un mensaje en el corazón del ministerio de Jesucristo. Es un mensaje que ayudará a evaluar nuestros pensamientos con respecto al cuidado de los unos a otros a través de la familia humana. Una persona puede hacer la diferencia. Una parroquia puede hacer la diferencia. La diócesis de Norwich puede hacer la diferencia. La iglesia universal basándose en el Evangelio de la Misericordia puede y hará una diferencia para ayudar a sanar y calmar la turbulencia en el mundo. Señor, escucha nuestra oración mientras caminamos a través de la puerta abierta de la Misericordia, renovados y creyendo con tanta fuerza que “La misericordia de Dios es capaz de transformar los corazones”. Estamos agradecidos. Atentamente en el amor de Cristo, Obispo Michael R. Cote Translated by Paulina Angulo

Pope Francis @Pontifex • Recent Tweet The Jubilee Year of Mercy reminds us that God is waiting for us with open arms, just like the father of the prodigal son.

Four County Catholic December 2015

Director of Priestly Vocations

Father Gregory Galvin We are approaching quickly the true beginning of the Christmas season! December seems to be flying by as quickly as the snow was piling up last winter! Please God let the good weather we have been having here in New England continue. As we continue the Advent season in our preparation for the Glorious season of Christmas, I call to your mind the words of Jesus as written by St. Paul in his letter to the Hebrews: ‘As is written of me in the book, I have come to do your will, O God.’” The Incarnate Son of God, The Word made Flesh, puts the focus of Christmas on the redemptive power of God’s love working through human flesh. Because God created us in His image, for Himself, and since sin entered into our lives through the body, we had to be redeemed also through the body. Thus, Christ through obedience to His Father, lowered himself to take on a lower created nature, a human body. This Christ does to bring the Joy, Peace and Love of God into the world, thereby making redemption possible for all mankind. He accomplishes this all through the loving act of obedience. Pray this coming Christmas season for our diocese, our state, our country and those around the world, that all will humbly choose to follow the way of the Christ-child by re-committing themselves, or by committing themselves for the first time to choosing daily to search out and do the will of God in their lives. May each of us become more open instruments of true Christmas joy, love and peace to all who cross our paths both during the Christmas season and throughout our lives! Please pray with me that each of us will come to know more deeply this Christmas season the power and fruit of choosing God’s will in our lives. VOCATION NOTES: We

are, with great joy, anticipating the upcoming diaconate ordination of Juan Aguirre on December 19, 2015 at 10 a.m. at the Cathedral of St. Patrick in Norwich. Please join us for this beautiful Holy Mass of Ordination. Juan will be serving here in the diocese during the next six months as a transitional deacon before hopefully joining with Deacon Jeff Ellis, Deacon Peter Langevin and Deacon Tom Griffin in being called to priestly ordination in June of 2016. Watch for the announcement of that date in the coming months as the diocese prepares to have four men ordained to the Holy Priesthood, the largest class in many years for the diocese! Thank you to all around the diocese who have participated in the Advent gift program for our seminarians. This is helpful to each of the men throughout the school year and summer as they do not have a regular income to take care of such things as their

car, personal items, gas, and the like. If you were unable to obtain tags and would like to assist a seminarian through this program, please call the vocation office and we will mail one to you. As many of you know, our Holy Father has called for a special Holy Year of Mercy beginning on December 8, 2015, the Feast of the Immaculate Conception. The Holy Year has opened officially around the world in different dioceses. Here in the Diocese of Norwich, Bishop Cote officially opened the Holy Year at a Mass at the Cathedral on Sunday December 13, 2015. Throughout the Holy Year of Mercy at each of the Monthly Holy Hours for Vocations around

the diocese, we will have priests available for confession during the Holy Hour. This is a great opportunity for everyone to take part in the sacrament that most directly allows us to experience the reason Christ came into the world, to forgive our sins and to make it possible for us to experience the fullness of God the Father’s Love and Mercy. Finally, as we head into the Christmas season and a new calendar year, please remember to continue begging the harvest master, God our Heavenly Father, to send us many good men to be priests for the diocese for many years to come. Please join us for the monthly holy hours and please continue to keep all of our

priests, your spiritual fathers, in your prayers. May you all have a very blessed Christmas season and a very healthy, happy and safe new year! May peace and joy which comes from the heart of the Holy Trinity fill your lives.

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Holy Hour for Vocations The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour: Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations vocations@norwichdiocese.net

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December 17, 2015 • 6:30 pm - 7:30 pm Saint Joseph, Norwich

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for November

Universal: That all may experience the mercy of God, who never tires of forgiving.

January 28, 2016 • 6:00 pm - 7:00 pm Saint Catherine of Siena, Preston

Juan Aguirre 4th Year Theology English Studies St. Mary Seminary Baltimore MD

Frank Gilbert 2nd Year Theology Pope Saint John XXIII National Seminary Weston, MA

Michael Bovino 2nd Year Philosophy Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Deacon Ron Blank 2nd Year Theology Pope Saint John XXIII National Seminary Weston, MA

Jeffrey Ellis 4th Year Theology Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Peter Langevin 4th Year Theology Mt. St. Mary Seminary Emmitsburg, MD

Thomas Grifﬁn 4th Year Theology Blessed John XXIII National Seminary Weston, MA

Prayer, Praise & Worship Every Tuesday afternoon at 2pm. For more information please contact Spiritual Renewal at 860-887-0702. Monday, December 14 Prayer and Discernment Board Meeting 10:30am at Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich. For more information, please call 860-8870702. Tuesday, December 15 Diocesan Prayer Meeting 7:30pm at St. Mary Church, Portland. Fr. Paul Boudreau, speaker. For more information, please call 860-887-0702.

Four County Catholic December 2015

Wednesday, December 16 Mercy Winter Music Concert 7:00 pm at Mercy High School Auditorium, 1740 Randolph Rd. Middletown. Admission is free – Please consider bringing a new unwrapped toy for holiday toy drive. Thursday, December 17 Holy Hour for Vocations The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, leads the Holy Hour at St. Joseph Church, Norwich from 6:30pm – 7:30pm. For more information contact Father Greg Galvin, Director of Priestly Vocations at vocations@norwichdiocese.net or (860) 887-9294. www.God-Calls.com

Sunday, December 20 36th Annual Festival of Lessons and Carols At 7:30pm in the Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich. Participating in the festival along with the Norwich Diocesan Choir will be the Cathedral Children’s Choir, the three Cathedral handbell choirs, the Cathedral Youth Singers and readers from the Cathedral parish. The choirs, totaling more than one hundred voices and ringers are all under the direction of Douglas Green, Cathedral Music Director. Persons attending the festival will have the opportunity to sing many traditional Christmas Carols. The public is invited and admission is free.

Youth March for Life Trip January 21-22, 2016 H.S. Students, stand up your for faith and it will change your world! Join us for an exciting and faith-filled onenight pilgrimage as we experience what it means to be PRO-LIFE in the D.C. metropolitan area. January 22, 1974, thousands of pro-lifers took a stand for the unborn and each year it has grown into the annual march which is the largest pro-life event in the world. SCHEDULE OF EVENTS Thursday, January 21

12:00 p.m. Stop in Willimantic for pick up 1:00 p.m. Bus departs from Saint Bernard School *1 stop for dinner on paid for by youth 10:00 p.m. Check-in Courtyard Marriot, Fairfax 11:30 p.m. Lights out

Friday, January 22

7:00 a.m. Buffet Breakfast 8:00 a.m. Depart for Life is Very Good Morning Rally and Mass 9:00 a.m. Youth Rally begins 9:30 a.m. Mass and Confessions offered 12:00 p.m. Rally ends/eat box lunch/depart on Bus 1:00 p.m. Arrive at National Mall/March for Life 4:00 p.m. Depart DC for home *1 stop for dinner on paid for by youth 11:00 p.m. Arrive at Saint Bernard School 12:00 a.m. Stop at Willimantic

Student accommodations are quad occupancy, chaperones are double, the breakfast and lunch will be provided, but the stops for supper are on-your-own. Breakfast, Rally, and Mass all happen before we arrive at march. Cost for the trip is $125 per student and must have permission form. Contact Liza at Lroach@Norwichdiocese.net or (860)848-2237 ex. 305. Chaperones are $160.

Tuesday, December 22 Childers Christmas Mass The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich will celebrate a children’s Mass for all students at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, 213 Broadway, Norwich, at 10:15am. Thursday, December 24 Midnight Mass The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich will celebrate Midnight Mass at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, 213 Broadway, Norwich. Friday, December 25 Christmas Day Saturday, January 2 Epiphany Concert There will be an Epiphany Concert in St. Joseph’s Church, New London, at 3pm. It will feature violinist June Ingram and organist Edward Stoltz. Selections will be seasonal and classical. Admission is free.

Wednesday, Jan. 6

Television Mass

At 10:00am Channel 20 WTXX, Charter Channel 11 WCCT, Comcast. Celebrant is Bishop Michael R. Cote.

Saturday, January 9 Prayer Group Leaders Meeting, Part I 9-3:00pm. Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich. For more information, please call 860-8870702. Wednesday, January 20 Panel Discussion on the Prevalence and Effects of Substance Abuse and Dependency You are invited to a panel discussion on the prevalence and effects of substance abuse & medication dependency in our community. From 7-8:30pm at Our Lady of Lourdes Parish Hall, 1650 Rte 12, Gales Ferry. There is no fee but please register. For more information, including scheduled panelist, please call Randy at 860-4647251 or by email: secretary@ololgf.org. [Snow date Jan 27th] Thursday, January 21 2016 March For Life Buses At 9pm. buses sponsored by the Southeast Chapter of Connecticut Right to Life will leave from the Norwich Municipal Parking Lot (Exit 11, formally Exit 80, I395) and travel to D.C. to attend the March For Life on January 22, 2016. Bus fare is $65 per person. (Reduced rate available for students) Please reply by January 7th. For further information or to reserve or to sponsor a seat, please call Margaret Becotte at 860-822-1362. Friday, January 22 March for Life Trip for High School Youth The Diocese of Norwich with

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Four County Catholic December 2015

the Office of Faith Events is offering an exciting and faith filled pilgrimage as we experience what it means to be PRO-LIFE in the D.C. metropolitan area. On January 22, 1974 thousands of prolifers took a stand for the unborn and each year it has grown into the annual march which is the largest pro-life event in the world. High School students will begin their day with a rally and Mass with national speakers and

faith, the sacraments, and awesome music. Open to graduating 8th -12th grade. $75 deposit due by January 15th. Total Cost is $330. Deposit includes: sendoff Mass with Bishop Cote, three Tâ&#x20AC;&#x201C; Shirts, pizza, transportation, and more. Cost for conference is $255 for early bird due in April. For further information email Liza Roach at lroach@norwichdiocese.net or 860-848-2237.

bishops in the Arlington Diocese then proceed to the March at the D.C. mall. If you are interested, please contact Liza at lroach@norwichdiocese.net or (860)848-2237 ex.305. Friday, June 24 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Sunday, June 26, 2016 Steubenville NYC 2016 St. Johnâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s University. Join 3000 teens from throughout the area for three days of fellowship,

â&#x20AC;&#x153;And you Bethlehem, Land of Judah, are by no means Least among the Rulers of Judah; since from you shall come a ruler (Jesus) who is to shepherd my people --- they shall call Him Emmanuel â&#x20AC;&#x201C; (which means) ~ Matthew 2:6; 1:23 â&#x20AC;&#x153;GOD IS WITH US!â&#x20AC;?

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Diocesan Prayer Meeting Tuesday, December 15, 2015 at 7:30 PM St. Mary Church, Portland, CT Fr. Paul Boudreau, Speaker

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Masses of Healing and Hope Mondays, December 14 and December 28, 2015 at 2:00 PM Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich, CT

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Prayer and Discernment Board Meeting Monday, December 14, 2015 at 10:30 AM Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich, CT

Television Mass Wednesday, December 9, 2015 at 10:00 AM Channel 20, WTXX Charter Channel 11, WCCT Comcast Celebrant, Fr. Ray Introvigne The Brothers and Sisters of Charity Music Ministry

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Life in the Spirit Seminar Wednesday, Dec. 2, 2015 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; â&#x20AC;&#x153;Transformationâ&#x20AC;? 2:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 4:00 PM and 7:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 9:00PM Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich, CT

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December 25, 2015 Merry Christmas â&#x20AC;&#x201C; Thank You Jesus â&#x20AC;&#x153;Jesus is the REASON for the SEASON!â&#x20AC;? Prayer Group Leaders Meeting, Part I Saturday, January 9, 2016, 9:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3:00PM Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich, CT Part II Saturday, February 6, 2016 9:00 â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 3PM â&#x20AC;&#x153;Everyoneâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s welcomed to these programs!

spiritual renewal services Diocese of Norwich

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Four County Catholic December 2015

Bishop Blesses New Handicap Ramp at Our Lady of La Salette On Sunday, December 6, the parishioners of Our Lady of La Salette Church in Brooklyn witBy Barbara Laliberte Our Lady of La Salette, Brooklyn

nessed the fruition of a longtime dream—a new handicap ramp. The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, was the celebrant at the Mass and blessed the new ramp and sacristy addition in the presence of the parishioners, Reverend John O’Neill and Reverend Elson Kattookkaran. The project was no easy task. The church, dedicated in 1936, is faced with stone veneer, up to six inches thick, and the thought of breaking through the wall of such an old building was cause for much concern. The fact that Our

Lady of La Salette is located in Brooklyn’s historic district added another perspective to the project. All plans had to meet the requirements of the Planning and Zoning Commission to assure the new addition would blend in with the historic character of the area. Careful thought and consideration went into the plans created by Art Hall, architect with Dan Wright & Associates. Art explained that it was a challenge dealing with existing construction, not knowing what was inside the wall. Extreme care was taken when analyzing the structure before construction began. The plans also called for the ramp to be extra wide in order to accommodate caskets for funerals. Work began in August by Woodstock Building Associates.

The wonderful weather experienced during summer and fall and the diligent work of the crew kept the project on schedule. In addition to creating a new entrance and breaking through the stone wall of the church, two of the original stained glass windows had to be relocated. Some of the original stonework was reused in the new structure. Matching the type and color of the stones in the church walls was of utmost importance in order to maintain cohesion throughout the building. Each week brought more progress until it finally was completed. Bishop Cote referred to the ramp as “a ramp of welcome.” Now all parishioners will have access to the church and will be truly welcome. Photo by Albert Messore.

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Red, White & Blue Mass The Annual Red, White and Blue Mass was celebrated November 15, 2015 at the Cathedral of St. Patrick honoring active, reserve, and retired members of all the uniformed services as well as the auxiliaries and service families. Special recognition given this year to the U.S. Navy. The Most Rev-

erend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich was the principal celebrant. Deacon William H. McGann III served as Deacon of the Word and homilist. Congratulations to Committee Co-chairs, BG CT Edward J. Waitte CTANG (ret) and Mr. David K. Harding, U.S. Merchant Marine.

Four County Catholic December 2015

Former Teacher Salvatore Scirpo’s Legacy of Caring Salvatore Scirpo, born on October 29 1924 to Joseph and Filomena Scirpo, grew up in By Mary Ellen Mahoney Major Gifts, Diocese of Norwich Office of Development

Middletown, Connecticut in a large family of four brothers and four sisters. He was a communicant at St. Francis of Assisi Church in Middletown and taught in the Durham school system until his retirement. Salvatore lived with Christ at the center of his life. His nephew, Anthony Scirpo and his wife, Elizabeth, remember “Uncle Sal” as always being dedicated to his family and his God. His father died at an early age and as his mother grew elderly, Salvatore took care of her and his younger sister while living with them. He kept God as the focal point of his life, reserving private prayer time from his busy schedule every day. He knew that in order to communicate with God he needed to have solitude, time to be still and listen to God speaking to him. Salvatore believed that the world God created was special and his experience of both the world around him and across the globe, allowed him to better appreciate all its beauty. In his early years, Salvatore traveled throughout the world to learn about other cultures. In later years, he kept abreast of world developments by keenly reading newspapers, books and magazines and watching news shows. On a more local scale, Salvatore enjoyed Connecticut’s bounty by taking

daily walks through the fields and contemplating the simple joy of a beautiful day. As a true follower of Jesus Christ, Salvatore chose not to be a materialistic man, but rather to give back whenever he was able. Elizabeth Scirpo recollected that

Salvatore never tired of caring for the poor and disadvantaged. His favorite exhortation was “Feed the Poor!” Following his own advice, Salvatore gave life to his words when he wrote his Last Will and Testament and left money to a number of nonprofits committed to helping the world’s neediest. Throughout his life, Salvatore never sought any recognition or fanfare for the many good deeds he did; nor would he have expected any. This was the case when Salvatore wrote his Last Will and Testament. Without any request for appreciation or acknowledgment, Salvatore remembered the Diocese in his estate plan. This past month, the Catholic Appeal of the Diocese of Norwich received a check in the amount of $89,000 from the Estate of Salvatore Scirpo. St Francis of Assisi and St. Sebastian

churches, both of Middletown, also received $20,000 each from his estate. Through his very generous gift to the Annual Catholic Appeal, Salvatore will help the 25 plus ministries supported by the ACA. His money will be used to assist the most downtrodden of our brothers and sisters and certainly will be used in part, to “Feed the Poor”. “We are very thankful to Salvatore Scirpo and others like him who show us all how to be Christlike. Salvatore’s gift will allow our ministries to reach out, just as he did during his life, and have a positive impact on the lives of many,” Angela Arnold, Executive Director of the Diocesan Office of Development. Salvatore Scirpo will forever be a teacher in the hearts of those who knew him. As many teachers are, Salvatore was concerned with the wellbeing of others. Bishop Michael R. Cote noted, “It is parishioners like Salvatore Scirpo who remind us all of Christ’s call to help those in need. Salvatore’s action of remembering, in his Will, not only the many ministries supported by the ACA but also two of his hometown parishes was a continuation of the care he showed to others during his life. Salvatore Scirpo’s kindness serves as an inspiration to us all.”

Salvatore Scirpo celebrating Easter 2015 with his great grandniece, Carmella.

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Four County Catholic December 2015

St. Andrew Choir Tour Spain as Goodwill Ambassadors The St Andrew Choir, of Colchester recently completed their eighth international tour and Submitted by Colleen Puscas Choir Director, St. Andrew, Colchester

pilgrimage, this time bringing their song and spirit to the cathedrals and basilicas of Portugal and Spain. Approximately 40 people from St Andrew Church made the pilgrimage, including St Andrew parochial vicar, Fr. Ben Soosaimanickam, who was celebrating the 25th anniversary of his ordination to the priesthood. Also joining the choir were members of St John Fisher Church in Marlborough Connecticut, St Ann Church in Avon CT, St Patrick’s parish in Collinsville CT, and the Federated Church of Colchester. The group traveled first to Lisbon, where they sang for Mass at the birthplace of St Anthony of Padua, patron saint of Portugal. A short bus ride then took them to Fatima, where the choir participated with over a thousand pilgrims in the beautiful, moving candlelight rosary procession, which is held each evening. Sunday morning, the choir sang for Mass at the fourth largest church in the world: the 9,000-seat Basilica of the Holy Trinity. The

church is built near the place where the Blessed Mother appeared in in 1917 to three simple shepherd children and exhorted humanity to pray for world peace. The choir sang a 30-minute a cappella program prior to the Mass, in addition to providing anthems and meditative music during the Mass, which was concelebrated by Father Ben. One of the great honors the choir had was to sing in Avila, Spain, during the 500th anniversary celebration of the birth of St Teresa of Avila, Spanish mystic, and founder of the Discalced Carmelites. The group then visited and performed at the famous El Escorial monastery, burial place of Spanish kings and queens. The concert was abbreviated, as the church was being prepared for a funeral of a member of the royal family the very next day. The choir sang in the main Santa Cruz Basilica, a temple of monumental proportions, crowned by a towering 500 foot cross, visible from 30 miles away. The sixth day of the tour found the group in Madrid, with the choir singing at the magnificent basilica, Santa Maria la Real de La Almudena, the seat of the Roman Catholic Archdiocese of Madrid.

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The group also had the opportunity to visit the famed Puerto del Sol, and the Prado museum, renowned for its stunning collection of paintings by El Greco, among others. The day concluded with a trip to see an astonishing performance of fiery Flamenco dancing. As the group wound its way towards the Northeastern coast of Spain, stops were made in Segovia, where a walking tour on ancient crooked streets included a visit to an ancient, undamaged Roman aqueduct, Segovia’s massive 16th century cathedral, and Alcazar, palace of the great Queen Isabella. Evening found the group at the Basilica of “Our Lady of the Pillar” in Zaragoza, one of the most visited pilgrimage spots in

Spain. Tradition takes the birth of this cathedral to October 12, 40 A.D., the dawn of Christianity in Spain. The Apostle James the Great was preaching in what was then the pagan territory of Caesaraugusta (now Zaragoza.) St James was discouraged, having converted only a few new believers. While he was deep in prayer, Mary appeared to him atop a pillar, assuring him that the people would ultimately be converted, and that their newfound faith would be a strong as the pillar on which she stood. She left the pillar, along with an image of herself, as a symbol of her protection. The pillar, which still emits an extraordinary fragrance, is visible in the church. One of the high points of all the

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concert venues was the opportunity to sing at the resplendent Benedictine Abbey of Montserrat, in Catalonia, built 4000 feet above the valley below. For over a thousand years, pilgrims from all over the world have made their way to this Shrine of the Black Madonna, reputed to have been carved by St Luke. The choir performed for hundreds, in a full-tocapacity basilica, overflowing with eager listeners. The ten-day pilgrimage ended in Barcelona, with one final concert at the second most visited site in all of Spain: the magnificent basilica Sagrada Familia (Holy Family.) Construction of the church began in 1882, with renowned architect Antoni Gaudi as primary designer. Although incomplete, the church is nonetheless a UNESCO World Heritage Site, with builders hoping to finish the church by 2026, the 100th anniversary of Gaudi’s death. While the primary organization of all St Andrew choir tours is geared towards concert venues, the group always considers themselves first and foremost, goodwill ambassadors for our faith and our country, hoping to be a part of the mission of peace so desperately needed in this world.

Four County Catholic December 2015

St. John the Baptist plays a prominent role in the Scripture readings during the Advent season as the church prepares for the celebration of Christmas. He is not mentioned on the first and fourth Sundays of Advent, but he is a major figure on the second and third. While Jesus is always the main focus of the Gospel, during the middle of Advent, St. John the Baptist serves as the main supporting character. John the Baptist is the intertestamental prophet, the prophet who bridges the Old

and New Testaments. “The one who is coming after me is mightier than I” (Matthew 3:11); “I am not fit to loosen his sandal strap” (Luke 3:16). John the Baptist’s prophetic message is applicable to our spiritual preparation for Christmas. Advent is a time to prepare the way of the Lord, to clear away every obstacle that would prevent Jesus from coming to us, so that when Jesus comes to us today and on Christmas, He will have unimpeded access to our hearts. John the Baptist wanted his listeners to re-

nounce sin, be washed of their past impurities, and be in the state of grace when Jesus appeared. Likewise, if we wish to be well-prepared for the solemn feast of Christmas, we would be wise to renounce our own sins, to confess them in the sacrament of reconciliation, to be washed of our impurities through sacramental absolution, to do good works, and to be in the state of grace when Jesus comes on Christmas. Let us humbly keep Jesus as the main focus of Advent, Christmas and every day of our lives.

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Four County Catholic December 2015

Saint Francis of Assisi Celebrates 35 Years as a Parish Saint Francis of Assisi. Lebanon, joyfully celebrated 35 years at their present location on West Town By Barbara Wengloski Saint Francis of Assisi, Lebanon

Street and 35 years as an independent Parish on November 8th at the 10:30 a.m. Mass. Pastor Mark Masnicki celebrated the Mass. Also present were Joyce Okonuk, First Selectman who read a Proclamation from the Town of Lebanon, Bert Bosse, the original building committee co-chair, who commented on the process it took to build the church and Edward Breen, the building architect. Music was provided by the Saint Francis Folk Group. Knights of Columbus from St. Francis and the Assembly 138 Coventry Color Guard in their official regalia brought pageantry to the Mass. A reception by the Ladies Guild was held prior to Mass. Father Mark in his homily compared the Church to the stones in the wall behind the sanctuary that St. Francis is known for. He said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Church really is not built of rocks, or bricks, or stones, or concrete, or wood, or glass. The real

Father Mark Masnicki celebrated the Eucharist at the November 8th 35th Anniversary Mass at Saint Francis of Assisi commemorating the 1980 dedication and blessing of the church on West Town Street and becoming an independent Parish. Photo by Barbara Wengloski. Church, the people of God, is made up of you, each one of you, and me. We are the Churchâ&#x20AC;Śthere is no better symbol in this entire building of who we are, than our

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stone wall. It takes all of us to make the Church. Just like it took many different stones to make up this wall. No two stones are the same. But each stone fills its spot and takes its role, of making the Church strong, and sound, and secure.â&#x20AC;? He continued to say that if a few of the

stones decide that they donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t want to be part of the wall any longer and pull themselves out, there would be a holey wall. The more stones that are missing make the wall weak and if enough stones are removed the wall will collapse. And it is important for all of us to put

ourselves into the Church, as living stones and make the Church strong. In 1943, a house on the Route 87 side of Lebanon Green was purchased and renovated into Saint Francis Mission Chapel. Property across the Green on West Town Street was purchased in 1965. By 1977 the number of parishioners had sufficiently increased and plans began to build a new church. Under the direction of Father Edward Davis, a new church was built, designed to harmonize with Lebanon Greenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s colonial setting. It was dedicated and blessed by Bishop Daniel P. Reilly on May 18, 1980; and Saint Francis Mission became an independent Parish December 8, 1980. Father Roger Gaulin was named the first Pastor. In 2011, Saint Francis Parish was yoked with Saint Andrew, Colchester under the leadership of one pastor, Father Mark Masnicki. Father Mark noted in his homily what has been accomplished and the number of people who have been touched at Saint Francis in a variety of ways over 35 years. In the future, Pastor and parishioners will continue to work together and support each other, like the stone wall. The possibilities are endless.

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Four County Catholic December 2015

Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe also known affectionately among the Hispanic faithful of the diocese as Festividad de La Virgin de Guadalupe was celebrated at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, December 12, 2015. The Most Reverend Michael R. Côte, Bishop of Nor-

wich, was the principal celebrant of the special Mass honoring the miracle of Our Lady of Guadalupe as an expression of God’s love and mercy for all God’s children. Following the Eucharist celebration, a lively and grateful fiesta concluded a weekend of joyful celebrating.

“By means of the Funeral Rites, it has been the practice of the Church, as a tender Mother,…to commend the dead to God…and to give witness to its own faith in the future resurrection of the Baptized with Christ.” (CONGREGATION FOR DIVINE WORSHIP ~ 1969)

Mother Mary Jude Lazarus, S.C.M.C., Hispanic Ministry Diocesan Director. Photos by Meredith Morrison.

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Four County Catholic December 2015

Tradition of the Holy Door The Jubilee Year of Mercy began on December 8, 2015. For the past five hundred By Sister Elissa Rinere, CP, JCD Office of Worship

years, an integral part of every Jubilee Year has been the tradition of opening and then, at the end of the Year, closing the Holy Door. In Rome, the four great basilicas; Saint Peter’s, Saint John Lateran, Saint Mary Major and Saint Paul Outside the Walls, have special doors designated for this purpose, which are opened only during specially proclaimed Jubilee Years. The Holy Door at Saint Peter’s was opened by Pope Francis on December 8th, and ceremonies in the other basilicas followed. The ritual of opening the Holy Door was first used at Saint Peter’s Basilica in Rome in the year 1499 to mark the dawn of the sixteenth century and sixteen hundred years of Christianity. At the conclusion of this first Jubilee Year, all access to the Holy Door was sealed with bricks and mortar. For subsequent Jubilee Years, the opening of the Holy Door involved the removal of at least some of the bricks and mortar by the pope. Now, and since 1975, the ritual calls for the pope only to knock on the Holy Door, the bricks and mortar having already been removed by others. Although the ritual has undergone several changes

through the centuries, the meaning of the Holy Door has remained unchanged. The meaning of the Holy Door has its roots in Scripture, when Jesus taught that he was the Good Shepherd: “Amen, amen I say to you, I am the gate for the sheep. All who came before me were thieves and robbers, but the sheep did not listen to them. I am the gate” (John 10: 7-9). The Holy Door is a symbol of entrance into a new way of life. Crossing over the threshold of the Holy Door is a sign of repentance and of the renewed intention of journeying with Christ. Pilgrims walk through the opened Holy Door as an outward sign of this inner conversion, forgiveness and grace. In this Holy Year, as proclaimed by Pope Francis, the door through which pilgrims are invited to walk is the Holy Door of Mercy. The journey through the door signifies both the receiving of God’s mercy, and the desire to share this mercy with others. In a Jubilee Year such as this Year of Mercy, every diocesan cathedral or shrine is free to designate one door as the Holy Door through which pilgrims walk. In the ritual for the opening of the Holy Door, the diocesan bishop leads a procession to the Holy

Door, stands at the closed door and says: “Open the gates of justice. We shall enter and give thanks to the Lord.” Then, as the designated Holy Door

opens, the bishop prays, “This is the Lord’s gate. Let us enter through it and obtain mercy and forgiveness.” Then, through the Holy Door of Mercy passes the

procession of bishop, clergy and laity to begin the celebration of the Jubilee Year of Mercy. At the front of the procession into the cathedral is the Book of the Gospels, emphasizing the centrality of Christ and the Word of God, through which we hear the message of salvation. Throughout the Year of Mercy, parishes of the diocese will be encouraged to organize pilgrimages to the Cathedral, and to walk through the Holy Door of Mercy as part of a prayer service or time of reflection. Parishes are also encouraged to plan events or programs highlighting the Spiritual and Corpo-

ral Works of Mercy, which capture so well the spirit of the Year of Mercy. As Pope Francis wrote in the document announcing the Year of Mercy: “It is my burning desire that, during this Jubilee, the Christian people may reflect on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. It will be a way to reawaken our conscience, too often grown dull in the face of poverty. ... Jesus introduces us to these works of mercy in his preaching so that we can know whether or not we are living as his disciples” (Misericordiae vultus, n.15). May this coming Year of Mercy be for each one of us a time of conversion, grace and action.

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The Knights of Columbus Silver Rose rests on a pillow in front of a shrine to Our Lady of Guadalupe at St. Agnes Church in Niantic on December 7. The Mexican crafted Silver Rose is one of six roses that travel through North America each year as part of a Marian devotion. One rose made its way from Maine through the New England states, traveling 925 miles in Connecticut alone and was viewed by more than 3,000 Catholics during Masses before being placed at the crypt of Venerable Father Michael J. McGivney at St. Mary Church in New Haven. The annual Running of the Rose, begun in 1960 by the Columbian Squires, honors Our Lady of Guadalupe. Photo by Shelley Wolf.

Holy Year “Send your Spirit and consecrate every one of us with its anointing, so that the Jubilee of Mercy may be a year of grace from the Lord.” Disciples of Mercy to Help Year of Mercy be a Gracefilled Experience To help all parishes across the diocese embrace and celebrate the Extraordinary Holy Year of Mercy, there will be at least two parishioners per parish commissioned as disciples of mercy. Appointed by their pastors, the disciples of mercy will help coordinate events and programs to help make the Jubilee Year a meaningful and gracefilled experience for all parishioners. The responsibilities of the disciples of mercy include: • Becoming familiar with the teachings that are significant to the Year of Mercy to help with frequently asked questions. • Receiving and sharing information from the Year of Mercy Committee. • Attending diocesan Year of Mercy meetings at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, and reporting back to their local parish. Possible activities for the disciples of mercy in their parishes or clusters: • Speaking at Mass to update parishioners on upcoming activities. • Organizing a committee of parishioners to help with projects. • Inviting a speaker to lead a reflection day on some aspect of the Year of Mercy. • Helping catechists present the spiritual and corporal works of mercy to children in faith Formation. • Helping to organize a series of adult faith formation sessions. • Helping to organize a special Mass to include a celebration of Anointing of the Sick. • Encouraging one’s parish to undertake new outreach programs which put the spiritual and corporal works of mercy into action. • Helping organize a parish pilgrimage to the Holy Door at the Cathedral or St. John Church in Middletown. Called to be “Merciful like the Father,” we pray for the grace to be disciples of mercy in all aspects of our daily life.

~ Pope Francis

Bishop Cote Opens the Cathedral’s Holy Door of Mercy, Launching the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy Norwich - The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich, tugged at the brass handle on the right inner door and then on the left inner door, opening wide the Cathedral By Shelley Wolf of St. Patrick’s Holy Four County Catholic Contributor Door of Mercy in a sacred rite that initiated the Extraordinary Jubilee Year of Mercy on Sunday, December 13 here in the Diocese of Norwich. “Open the gates of justice. We shall enter and give thanks to the Lord,” Bishop Cote commanded. Once the doors were opened he pronounced, “This is the Lord’s gate. Let us enter through it and obtain mercy and forgiveness.” Then, the Bishop crossed over the threshold. The Bishop of Norwich was followed by clergy from throughout the diocese, by the event organizers, and finally by families representing each of the seven deaneries — all of whom took their turn passing through the Holy Door of Mercy, which was decorated with beautiful purple and white floral and eucalyptus wreaths. The Jubilee Year of Mercy is a special year-long event that has been designated by Pope Francis as a time to focus on and deepen our gratitude for the loving mercy of God. Pope Francis has asked that specially designated Holy Doors be established in each diocese throughout the world so that Catholics can make a pilgrimage to the nearest Holy Door and enter through it to experience the love, consolation, pardon, and hope that only comes from God. In Norwich, the Jubilee Year of Mercy was celebrated with the Rite of Opening and a full Mass. Bishop Cote served as the main celebrant and homilist, while the concelebrants included Monsignor Anthony S. Rosaforte, Father Stephen S. Gulino, Father Brian C. Maxwell, and Father Francis C. Rouleau. Sister Elissa Rinere, C.P., read from Pope Francis’s Proclamation of the Extraordinary Jubilee of Mercy, which defined mercy as “the ultimate supreme act by which God comes to meet us.” During his homily, Bishop Cote cited just a few of the many reasons that Pope Francis designated a special Year of Mercy. For instance, the Bishop noted that God’s mercy be-

came living and visible in Jesus of Nazareth. “God has never ceased to show his divine mercy,” the Bishop said. Pope Francis has also called us to bring mercy to those living on the fringes of society who have no voice. “ ‘Let us open our eyes and see the misery of the world,’ “ Bishop Cote said, quoting the Holy Father. We must recognize we are compelled to heed their cry for help with our presence, friendship, and fraternity. All of the Church’s activity should be “caught up in tenderness,” the Bishop said, paraphrasing the Holy Father. Nothing should be “lacking in mercy.”

Bishop Cote Opens Holy Door Continued

on page 18

Mercy

December 8, 2015 ~ November 13, 2016

The Works of Mercy Corporal Works Feed the Hungry Give Drink to the Thirsty Clothe the Naked Visit the Sick Shelter the Homeless Visit the Imprisoned Bury the Dead

Spiritual Works

Living As His Disciples As we prepare to enter the Jubilee Year of Mercy, we are drawn to the words of Pope Francis who expressed his desire that the Christian people reflect on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy. By Deacon Peter Gill “Jesus introduces us Four County Catholic Contributor to these works of mercy in his preaching,” Pope Francis said, “ so that we can know whether or not we are living as his disciples.” Here in the Diocese, two very active ministries exemplify the mission of mercy to which we are called. St. Vincent de Paul Middletown and St. Vincent de Paul Place in Norwich feed the hungry, provide clothing and shelter, but they are and do so much more than that. The ministries focus on helping the communities in which they are located. St. Vincent de Paul Middletown, located on Main Street, was founded in November 1980 by the Sisters of Mercy as a community ministry of the Diocese of Norwich. St. Vincent de Paul Place (SVdPP), in Norwich has been serving the needs of the homeless and people with limited income in the greater Norwich area since 1979. July 2015 marked the third anniversary at the current location, the former St. Joseph School in Norwich.

Ron Krom, the executive director of St. Vincent de Paul Middletown, notes that “For 35 years, we have been serving the poor, homeless and people in need in the greater Middletown area with compassion, care and a spirit of hospitality. “ Jillian Corbin is executive director of St. Vincent de Paul Place, Norwich. The goal, she says, is: “To provide food, companionship, and advocacy for anyone in need, regardless of age, gender, race, or religion. Our primary services address hunger: we serve breakfast and lunch six days a week, and our food pantry distributes food three days a week. Our care and advocacy program has a full time case manager who provides counseling and offers a variety of ways to link patrons to programs and benefits that will lead them toward self-sufficiency and a better life.” Mr. Krom reports a four-part approach: The Soup Kitchen serves approximately 85,000 meals each year, averaging about 230 meals per day. Meals are prepared daily and served in a community dining room that is like home to many of our guests. As relationships are built with staff, we hear stories of many people who struggle with poverty, homelessness, mental illness, addictions, and hunger, and we work together to make connections to services and resources that are appropriate and timely.

Admonish the Sinner Instruct the Ignorant Counsel the Doubtful Comfort the Sorrowful Bear Wrongs Patiently Forgive All Injuries Pray for the Living & Dead The Amazing Grace Food Pantry is a grocery store (and food warehouse) where low-income people can shop for free. We are currently serving more than 1,000 households every month, which translates into about 2,400 individuals, including 600 children. The Pantry is open for shopping on Mondays, Wednesdays and Fridays from 1-4 pm, and Saturdays from 10-1. Each family receives approximately three days’ worth of nutritious meals each time they shop. The Community Assistance Program began about 15 years ago to help meet the needs of people in our community with financial assistance for rent, security deposits, electric and gas bills, heating oil, medications, transportation, and so on. We are able to assist more than 300 families annually with approximately $120,000 and many more with information about other community resources. Finally, our Supportive Housing Program provides support services to 78 adult men and women who are disabled and who were formerly chronically homeless in their own apartments. In Norwich, Ms. Corbin reports: Our served meals program is the largest community meal site in the greater Norwich area. We serve breakfast and lunch Living as His Disciples Continued

on page 18

Holy Year Bishop Cote Opens Holy Door

Four County Catholic December 2015

Mercy

Continued from page 16

Living As His Disciples “In addition, it is the Holy Father’s burning desire that Christian people reflect on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy,” Bishop Cote said. “This is the Gospel we are to preach in word and in deed,” Bishop Cote stressed. “The Holy Father calls these actions ‘the beating heart of the Gospel.’” They renew those who exercise mercy as well as those who are the beneficiaries of these actions, the Bishop said. Moreover, Bishop Cote suggested that Catholics make ardent use of the pathways to mercy, such as reading scripture, making a pilgrimage to a church, or frequenting the Sacrament of Reconciliation. All of these actions, combined with the corporal and spiritual

works of mercy, provide us with “the opportunity to know more deeply the love and mercy of God,” Bishop Cote said. Following the homily, Bishop Cote commissioned the Disciples of Mercy— the representatives from every parish in the diocese — asking them to organize meaningful parish events to celebrate God’s unfailing mercy. “I commission you to be Disciples of Mercy, to raise the awareness of those in your parish families to new ways in which they can celebrate, share, and live as channels of mercy and instruments of peace,” Bishop Cote said. “May you strive to make visible Jesus’ love so that parishioners may know they are valued, loved, welcomed, and respected. Through the

power of the Holy Spirit, may you be empowered to see Christ in others and to bring Christ to them.” Pope Francis has also asked that special Missionaries of Mercy be sent out during Lent in the coming year. Bishop Cote announced that Father Brian Maxwell has been appointed the diocese’s Missionary and Preacher of Mercy and will be traveling to various parishes throughout the diocese to pardon sins and preach on the subject ofmercy. Finally, Bishop Cote announced that St. John Church in Middletown will be the site of a second Holy Door of Mercy within the diocese — available to all pilgrims of contrite heart who are seeking the pardon, compassion, and comfort of God.

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Cont. from page 17

six days a week. In 2014, we served an average of 246 meals per day for a total of over 76,000 meals. We provided an additional 7,700 meals, many that were taken home by our patrons. Our pantry offers food to families and individuals who prepare their own meals. In 2014, more than 1,300 households used the pantry. These households comprise over 3,400 individuals including more than 200 senior citizens and 1,100 children. The pantry distributed over 269,000 meals last year. St. Vincent de Paul Middletown runs the City of Middletown’s Warming Center during the winter months. This is a program that provides a warm, safe environment in a local church hall for an average of 22 people nightly who would otherwise be out in the cold on the streets. We have many partners, and we are an active participant in community-wide efforts to address the problem of homelessness. We are the representative payee for more than 50 people and help them to budget and manage their disability income to pay rent and utility bills. We receive mail for more than 100 people who do not have permanent addresses. “St. Vincent de Paul Middletown,” said Mr. Krom, “is a ministry of caring.” As it is in Norwich as Ms. Corbin notes: St. Vincent de Paul Place is a member of the Norwich and New London Community Care Teams, a collaborative of municipal, local, and state health and human service agencies. These agencies along with many other partners have banded together for the purpose of finding long-term solutions for displaced and homeless people. In addition to helping people find shelter and housing, we have implemented an extreme-weather emergency protocol to promote the safety of people who are living outside or in vehicles. Other ways this agency lives out the corporal works of mercy: • Welcome the stranger; - we are a drop in center; people can come as they are and we do not judge . • Visit the sick; - visit people at the hospital, nursing home, take them to doctors. • Ransom the captive; - help with detox, getting a job- give financial aid - ride to detox buy special shoes for work or pay for an ID. Offer encouragement and hope when they succeed or fail. • Bury the dead. Memorial services are held for deceased patrons and family members of patrons. We offer a community that is safe and spiritual. Our community allows for people to be themselves- even when they mess up and we deal with it as a family. We celebrate holidays and birthdays as well as memorials. We acknowledge global issues and pray for peace and those that need prayer. We foster spiritual growth. One of our patrons was confirmed in our faith at the last Holy Saturday Mass. Our Listening Ministry provides non-judgmental listening between patron and volunteer. The SVdPP community participates in a number of activities that foster helping people feel a part of the larger community - a sense of belonging. The works and multi-faceted ministries of the Middletown and Norwich agencies can help us keep our focus on the corporal and spiritual works of mercy during this jubilee year and beyond. “…I want a Church which is poor and for the poor…We are called to find Christ in them, to lend our voices to their causes, but also to be their friends, to listen to them, to speak for them, and to embrace the mysterious wisdom which God wishes to share with us through them.” (Evangelli Gaudium 197-198).

Four County Catholic December 2015

Statement from Michael P. Warsaw, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer, EWTN Global Catholic Network: “The decision by the US Supreme Court to take up the HHS contraceptive mandate cases, including the one filed by the Little Sisters of the Poor is wonderful news. In our own challenge to the mandate, EWTN has been waiting for the Atlanta-based US Court of Appeals for the Eleventh Circuit to issue a decision following oral arguments before that court in February 2015. Today’s action by the Supreme Court may mean the EWTN case will be put on hold pending the outcome of the Supreme Court’s decision. “Contraception, sterilization and abortion-inducing drugs are

not healthcare and participating in providing them to our employees violates our Catholic beliefs. When EWTN launched its first lawsuit against the mandate in 2012, we made it clear that we cannot and will not compromise our strongly held beliefs on these

We Can Help To report inappropriate contact of any kind by a representative of the Diocese of Norwich or for assistance to victims, please call: 1-800-624-7407

moral issues. We are extremely encouraged by the fact that the Supreme Court has chosen to weigh in on this unprecedented government violation of religious liberty. We ask our EWTN Family to continue to keep this matter in their prayers.”

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Defending Religious Liberty Religious freedom is a cornerstone of our democracy. The federal health care mandate fundamentally alters the fragile balance between government and religious groups created by the framers of our Constitution. The same First Amendment that protects religious freedom protects freedom of the press. We wouldn’t stand for the government telling news programs whom to interview or what articles to write. If you haven’t done so already, please voice your opposition to the federal health care mandate by calling U.S. Secretary of Health and Human Services Sylvia Mathews Burwell at 202-205-5445, and your elected representatives. Let them know that the mandate is in violation of our First Amendment right to religious freedom.

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Four County Catholic December 2015

St. Patrick Cathedral School, Norwich 860-889-4174 www.St-patrickschoolnorwich.org

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Sacred Heart School, Taftville 860-887-1757 www.sacredhearttaftville.org Sacred Heart School, Groton 860-445-0611 www.sacredheartgroton.org St. Edward School, Stafford Springs 860-684-2600 www.stedward-stafford.org St. James School, Danielson 860-774-3281 www.stjamesdanielson.com St. John Paul II Regional School, Middletown 860-347-2978 www.jpii.org

Wreaths Across America On December 8th, Saint Bernard School was the first stop in Connecticut for Wreaths Across America’s annual pilBy Shari Marderness Communications & Advancement Assistant, SBS

grimage from Harrington, Maine, to Arlington National Cemetery. SBS welcomed more than 150 volunteers from the organization, along with a convoy that included 11 semi-trailer trucks full of wreaths that would ulti-

mately be displayed on veterans’ graves. A group of students solemnly carried out and unfolded a 30- x 45-foot flag toward the trucks, where class of 1987 alumnus Kevin Reilly, the Pastor at St. Patrick’s Church in Mystic, blessed the fleet, wreaths and drivers making the journey to Arlington. Samuel Britner, a junior at SBS, played “Taps” on his trumpet. Attendees were led indoors by Saint Bernard parent William Irwin, who

played “Amazing Grace” on the bagpipes. The honor guard from the U.S. Coast Guard Academy presented the colors during the ceremony, which included performances of the national anthem and “America the Beautiful” by the Saint Bernard choir, and the themes of the Armed Forces by the school band. Madison Rising, a patriotic rock band in town for a show at Mohegan Sun, also performed.

St. John School, Old Saybrook 860-388-0849 www.saintjohnschoolos.com St. Joseph School, Baltic 860-822-6141 www.stjosephbaltic.org St. Joseph School, North Grosvenordale 860-923-2090 www.schoolofstjoseph.com St. Joseph School, New London 860-442-1720 www.sjsnl.com St. Mary-St. Joseph School, Willimantic 860-423-8479 www.smsjschool.org St. Michael School, Pawcatuck 860-599-1084 www.stmichaelschoolct.com St. Matthew Pre-School, Tolland 860-872-0200 www.stmatthewct.org St. Bernard Pre-School, Rockville 860-875-0753 x113 www.saintbernardchurch.org

To learn more, contact the Diocesan School Office, 860-887-4086, www.norwichdso.org or contact one of the diocesan schools.

Four County Catholic December 2015

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Speakers included Saint Bernard alumnus U.S. Army Col. John Whitford, class of 1980, and U.S. Coast Guard Capt. Anthony “Jack” Vogt. Saint Bernard Headmaster Don Macrino said, “Our students, and the entire Saint Bernard’s family, pause today to remember all our veterans.” Wreaths Across America is a non-profit organization formed in 2007 as an extension of The Arlington Wreath Project, with over

700 participating locations in all 50 states, and 24 national veteran cemeteries on foreign soil. The convoy, consisting of 150,000 wreaths, makes visits to schools, veterans’ homes, monuments, and communities along the east coast on their way to Arlington. The wreaths’ journey has become a tradition in itself, allowing locals along the route to share in the emotional and educational experience as the convoy passes through their hometown.

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Thirteen Sons, No Daughters, No Reality TV Shows The wedding that Tyler Schwandt and his fiancée are planning could’ve been By Christina Capecchi Four County Catholic Contributor

broadcast on national TV. But he’s perfectly content with a quieter, more intimate wedding Mass. The 23-year-old Catholic from Rockford, Mich., has the distinction of being the firstborn of 13 boys, the family whose improbable boy streak went viral with the 12th pregnancy and generated another round of stories when a 13th son arrived in May. Crews from “The Today Show” and “Good Morning America” were at the Schwandts’ six-bedroom brick home before they had returned from the hospital, citing statisticians who set the odds of 13 con-

secutive boys at 1 in 8,000. Each boy has felt like a one-ina-million blessing to Jay and Kateri Schwandt, whose openness to life is rooted in their Catholic faith. Ty absorbed those values his entire life and considers his family the best marriage-prep he could’ve hoped for. He’s been changing diapers since third grade and has a

knack for getting a baby to sleep. When asked what he wants to do when he grows up, Ty has always offered the same answer: be successful, be happy and be a dad. Growing up with so many brothers brought a series of practical jokes and broken windows, including one instance when the

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family’s pole barn didn’t have a single intact window, thanks to errant hockey pucks. Stuffed with backpacks and bunk beds and mounds of hockey pads, Kateri has likened their house to a locker room. Ty loves it. He and his fiancée, Bailey, a 20year-old college junior, are planning a July, 2016 wedding. She has one sibling and used to imagine having two kids of her own one day but has since raised it to four – a number Ty still considers far too low. “God has a plan for us,” Ty said. “I’ll be happy with whatever we’re blessed with. Every time we get on that subject, Bailey says, ‘Please, just give me one little girl.’” After the birth of their 12th son in 2013, TLC offered the Schwandts a reality show. Jay and Kateri sat down to discuss the prospect with their older sons one autumn evening before supper, hashing out the pros and cons. “I was never intrigued,” Ty said. “I liked the attention, but I never loved the attention, and it almost lasted a little too long for me. I’d rather live a simple, happy life. You see ‘Kate Plus 8’ and the Duggars and all those other shows. They make a good run and then, in the end, they come crashing down. It wasn’t worth trying to be the exception.” The money TLC offered didn’t

justify the cost it would come at, Ty felt. Surely the camera crew would’ve gravitated toward the handsome firstborn, turning his engagement into a major storyline and reducing the wedding sacrament to a heavily marketed special

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episode. No thanks, says Ty. “We want our wedding to be intimate. I’m glad we’re able to keep this in the family.” Saying no to reality TV, as he sees it, is a yes to privacy, serenity and family. He has total confidence – and a measure of relief – in their decision to decline. “I’m very thankful for it because I don’t know how well I’d be able to take it. My biggest concern would be all of the little boys. They would grow up in front of cameras. I feel like they would never become who they really are.” Watching their lives unfold as he begins a family of his own leaves nothing to be desired. It is the adventure of a lifetime. Christina Capecchi is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, Minn., and the editor of SisterStory.org.

Four County Catholic December 2015

The 2nd Annual Harvest Fest at the Academy at Mount Saint John The Second Annual Harvest Fest at The Academy at Mount Saint John on November 14th By Kathy C. White Chief Administrator/Education Director, AMSJ

was a huge success, attended by 80 people! This year’s highlights included live music by BluesGrass and a tour of the facility, delicious appetizers, entrees and desserts made by our Chef Kristen and the culinary students, and a great silent auction with donated items. Kathy C. White, Chief Administrator/ Education Director, presented recognitions to several supporters of the program. Two students, Ells and John, were present to help with the food preparation, serving, cleanup and technology assistance. The keynote speaker was Michael Rohde, former employee of Mount Saint John, Mayor of Meriden and long time supporter of child welfare causes and programs. He intro-

duced John William Tuohy, author of “No Time to Say Goodbye; A Memoir of a Life in Foster Care”. John attended MSJ in the late 60s and Mike was his wrestling coach. Amid laughter about his adventures while at Mount Saint John, the audience rose to give John a standing ovation, after he read a chapter in his book about attending a dance in the very same gym. He described how girls were bussed in from another school for the evening and depicted the awkwardness and insecurity, with the boys looking at the girls looking at the boys… Eventually it turned into a great night of dancing, and after an emotional pause, he read “for a few hours we weren’t poor or scared or desperate …. we were just kids, doing what kids do, and it felt good. It was a great night.” John and his wife Mary live in Washington DC. John has written several non-fiction

From left to right: An Academy at Mount Saint John Student/Intern; John Tuohy; Kathy C. White & Mary Tuohy. books and is active in politics. He has committed to help The

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Youth Ministry Events Help to Make Advent Extra Special Youth Ministers provide valuable services to their parishes by providing creative experiences By Linda Norton Four County Catholic Contributor

that help adolescents grow into a closer relationship with Jesus and His Church. Teens who participate in youth ministry help to bring vitality and joy to their parishes and most often remain involved in the Church throughout adulthood. Advent is one of the liturgical seasons that youth ministers love to plan for because there are so many creative programming opportunities in which to evangelize, involve, and inspire teens. St. Andrew parish in Colchester and All Saints parish in Somersville are two of the parishes in our diocese offering a special

Advent event for their high school teens who are involved in their

parish youth groups or preparing for Confirmation.

The student nativity scene from the Sacred Heart School, Taftville, float in the annual Norwich Winterfest Parade November 28th. It was a dreary day with light rain, but our parents and students showed great spirit! Submitted by Mother Christina.

The first event was at St. Andrew parish (Pastor, Father Mark Masnicki) on the first Sunday of Advent, November 29th, for an estimated gathering of 50 parish teens. Youth Minster Carol Pettit, and her Life Teen Core Team presented a creative program called “Merry Advent and a Happy New Year” noting that “Advent is a great time to reflect on our spiritual journey.” During the event, the teens learned about the seasons of the Church’s liturgical year through creative activities and explored how to grow closer to Jesus through each liturgical season. The focus was on opening the Church’s new liturgical year with a holy Advent. This special night began with a New Year’s celebration, including a DJ, dinner, and ended with a prayerful opportunity to make a holy New Year’s resolution. The second event was at All

Saints parish in Somersville (Pastor, Father Roland Cloutier) on the first Monday of Advent, November 30, 2015. Susan King, DRE/Youth Minister and several catechists hosted a special program for 40 – 45 of their 9th grade Confirmation teens. They called this first time event “An Advent and Christmas Pilgrimage”. Susan shared that the goal of the event was to “take some time out to travel back in time to see how the world welcomed the birth of our Savior and compare it to how the youth can welcome our Savior into their own lives this coming year.” The teens dressed in the traditional nativity garb and explored how things were at the time Jesus was born. The night started with ice breakers to help the teens connect with the theme, followed by “The Wheel of Advent/Christmas” game show. There was also a special prayer service.

Four County Catholic December 2015

Veteran Teacher and Coach Receives Ryken Award A veteran teacher and coach from Norwich was presented with the 2015 Theodore James

jobs four or five times in their lifetime, Mr. Leone said, â&#x20AC;&#x153;fulfilling the

By Shari Marderness Communications & Advancement Assistant, SBS

Ryken Award on Dec. 3 for his commitment to the mission of Saint Bernard School and his dedication to the values of the Xaverian Brothers. Mr. James Leone, who has taught at SBS for 37 years, was presented the honor by Headmaster Don Macrino following a prayer service, which celebrated the feast of St. Francis Xavier, patron saint of the Xaverian Brothers. â&#x20AC;&#x153;The name Jim Leone is synonymous with Saint Bernard School,â&#x20AC;? Mr. Macrino said. Mr. Leone began teaching at Saint Bernard in 1978 after graduating from Trinity College with a degree in religion. Through his years at Saint Bernard, Mr. Leone has coached baseball, football and wrestling, and taught religion to generations of students. â&#x20AC;&#x153;Saint Bernardâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s has always been a home for me,â&#x20AC;? said Mr. Leone. â&#x20AC;&#x153;I am very proud and honored to receive the Theodore James Ryken award, a man who inspires me with his compassion, humility and zeal for Catholic education.â&#x20AC;? While most people change

Sponsored Schools. The recipient is chosen by a committee made up of the administration and past Ryken Award winners. Mr. Leone has been the faculty representative for pro-life, accompanying students to Washington, D.C., annually for the March for Life. He was one of three finalists for the national assistant coach of the year award and has served as a member of the principalsâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; advisory L to R: James Leone receives Ryken Award Trophy from SBS Headmaster Don Macrino.

mission of Saint Bernard School to bring Jesus Christ to the great students and athletes I have been fortunate enough to teach has always been a great love and passion for me.â&#x20AC;? The Ryken Award- named for the founder of the Xaverian Brothers - is given annually on the feast of St. Francis Xavier at each of the 13 Xaverian Brothers

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board. Each year he has taken students abroad, exposing them to art, history and the culture of faraway places. He has also been a Big Brother for the United Way. â&#x20AC;&#x153;But perhaps most important has been his consistent, compas-

sionate, spiritual influence upon the thousands of students who have passed through these doors,â&#x20AC;? Mr. Macrino said. â&#x20AC;&#x153;You cannot speak to alumni without being asked â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;Is Mr. Leone still there?â&#x20AC;&#x2122; followed by, â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;What a great guy.â&#x20AC;&#x2122;â&#x20AC;?

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Four County Catholic December 2015

New Diocesan Young Adult Ministry Kick-off Event Our new Diocesan Young Adult Ministry got underway on Friday, November 13th with a By Linda Norton Four County Catholic Contributor

kick-off event held at St. Patrick’s Cathedral hall in Norwich. About twenty-five young adults from across our diocese and beyond responded to the invitation. The event took place on a chilly and windy night, however the atmosphere inside was warm, friendly, and relaxed. The evening started out with a social time followed by a program entitled “Being Catholic in Today’s Culture” presented by Catholic speaker, author, and musician Chris Padgett. Afterwards there was more time to socialize, an opportunity to purchase some of Chris’ books and CDs, and a group photo was snapped to mark this first official Young Adult event. In his presentation, Chris talked about the importance for Catholics to be authentic people of faith. He encouraged attendees not to cover up their interior faith with social masks on the exterior just because their faith may not appeal to others. He reminded the group that none of us have it all together, although some people expend a lot of effort trying to act like they do. Chris emphasized the importance of revealing our authentic selves in relationships especially when dating or moving toward marriage. Chris shared that “marriage is a powerful place of self-disclosure” and that, for all of us, married or not, “living the Christian life takes someone who will acknowledge their constant need for Christ”. As a husband, and father of nine children, Chris was certainly speaking from experience! Chris also mentioned that it is our imperfections that cause us to need Jesus. God’s mercy is ours, but we must also try to be more merciful and less judgmental with ourselves. Chris also played guitar, sang, and led the group in a time of reflection and prayer. Lisa Hugick, a young adult

who heard about this event and came all the way from Immaculate Conception parish in Waterbury (Archdiocese of Hartford), shared “I attended tonight looking to grow in my faith and to be challenged. Padgett came through. He encouraged me to pursue a deeper relationship with

Jesus and to trust God more. I am committed to becoming more vulnerable with those around me and to authentically love the people in my life, even when it is difficult.” For more information on Chris Padgett visit http://www.chrispadgett.com. For more informa-

tion about future Young Adult Ministry events in our diocese, contact Marge Vanner, Director of the Office of Faith events (faithevents@norwichdiocese.net ) or Liza Roach, Diocesan Youth Minister (lroach@norwichdiocese.net) or by calling 860-8482237.

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There will be more events in the future for young adults between 18 – 39 years of age. In the next issue of the Four County Catholic there will be an article devoted to the new Diocesan Young Adult Council so stay tuned for more information on this exciting new ministry!

Four County Catholic December 2015

“A Holy Place Where We Discover Each Other in God’s Love” Celebrating 76 Years of Excellence in Catholic Education ~ Grades K-8 ~

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25 Squire Street New London, CT For information call 860-442-1720 sjsscty@ct.metrocast.net www.sjsnl.com

St. Joseph School, Baltic, CT had the honor of hosting Lt. Sean Mokler (Reserves) US Navy, Petty Officer First Class Larry Watson (Reserves) US Navy, and Commander Whit Irwin (Ret.) U.S. Coast Guard at the school’s Veterans’ Day celebration. The men spent time with the students and staff sharing their experiences and stories and answering questions. It was a great privilege to have had these servicemen at our celebration. The celebration was organized by the Student Council and their advisor.

St. Mary – St. Joseph School 35 Valley Street – Willimantic, CT 06226 860-423-8479 • www.smsjschool.org

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PreK—3 year olds (3 half days) PreK – 4 year olds full or half days Full day Kindergarten – Gr.8 Before and after school care Weekly Art, P.E., Music, Library, Technology Classes Student to Teacher Ratio: 18:1 Challenging academic program

Trust your child to a Catholic School where faith, knowledge and life meet. Come visit us!

Four County Catholic December 2015

Did You Know? Advent Advent started November 29th. Enjoy time around an Advent wreath daily, singing carols and reading about the coming of Christ. Each day, read a little bit of Matthew chapter one and Luke chapters one and two.

December 8 Feast of Immaculate Conception of Mary. Read about Mary in Luke 1:26-56.

Christmas Code Puzzle

December 12 National cocoa day. Warm up with friends and family!

December 21 World Peace Day. Jesus is called the Prince of Peace in Isaiah 9:6.

Start at the top of the tree. Change each letter to the one before it in the alphabet and each number to the one before it numerically so replace a C with a B. Each * is a space between words. It spells out a message of a prophet. The verse is from Matthew 1:23 and fulfilled the prophets words find in Isaiah 7:14.

Bible Families & Your Families A Christmas tree helps make the season brighter. But, Christmas is really about Jesus, so the tree should also help you remember his birth and other reasons for celebrating. Long ago, God used an evergreen tree to describe himself. The last part of Hosea 14:8 says, I am like an evergreen cypress, from me comes your fruit. Consider how a Christmas tree can help you focus on Jesus this year. • Let the Christmas tree stand tall as a symbol of God and his everlasting love. Add lights as a reminder that Jesus came to be the light of the world. Chat about the decorations and how many reflect the story of the birth of Jesus. Even the tree is a symbol of why Jesus came as you look beyond the branches to remember he died on a cross made from the wood of a tree. He came to save us. • God wants us to be in his family, so think about a family tree and add ornaments with your photos and names to the tree. • Angel trees often stand in church foyers beckoning us to help needy children. Paper angel ornaments on these trees contain names and ages of children and sometimes include specific needs, like jeans or a doll. This is an opportunity to be fruitful at Christmas. Be like an angel who spreads joy and take a name. Shop as a family and add a few little items, like a dollar in a pant’s pocket, or a little toy to go with clothes. • Some people like to decorate a Jesse Tree that reminds us of the long journey through the Bible, from the creation and promise of a Savior, to the birth of Jesus. Check out more at http://www.catholicculture.org/culture/liturgicalyear/activities/view.cfm?id=545 A Jesse tree provides a great way to review Bible stories and recall how God kept his promise. • Bird trees are ones where we add ornaments with seeds and peanut butter to help feed little winged creatures. Consider hanging up some goodies to care for God’s creation. Let the tree be a symbol of hope this year and gather round it to sing carols and read the Christmas story.

M PPL *UIF* WJSHJO* TIBMM*DPO DFJWF*BOE*C FBS*B*TPO*BOE *UIFZ*TIBMM*OBN F*IJN*FNNBOVFM*XI JDI*NFBOT*HPE*JT*XJ UI* VT* Answer: Look, the virgin shall conceive and bear a son and they shall name him Emmanuel which means God is with us. Matthew 1:23

December 16 Start of Las Posadas (means The Inns) that recalls the journey of Mary and Joseph to Bethlehem.

in t i h W H y Karen

December 7 First Day of Hanukkah. The story is in Maccabees, chapters two and four. It’s a reminder that Jesus would come as the light of the world.

Four County Catholic December 2015

Pope Francis Recalls His Apostolic Trip to Africa and Praises Missionaries How Beautiful Africa Is! ~ Pope Francis

Unfailing Prayer to St. Anthony O Holy St. Anthony, gentlest of Saints, your love for God and Charity for His creatures, made you worthy, when on earth, to possess miraculous powers. Miracles waited on your word, which you were ever ready to speak for those in trouble or anxiety. Encouraged by this thought, I implore of you to obtain for me (state request here). The answer to my prayer may require a miracle, even so, you are the Saint of Miracles. O gentle and loving St. Anthony, whose heart was ever full of human sympathy, whisper my petition into the ears of the Sweet Infant Jesus, who loved to be folded in your arms; and the gratitude of my heart will ever be yours. Amen. Promise publication and for nine consecutive days, pray one Our Father, one Hail Mary and one Glory Be.

~ MD ~

was witness of the young who, in spite of difficulties, safeguard the gift of hope and seek to live according to the Gospel. There was the witness of the priests and consecrated persons who day by day renew their total ‘yes’ to Christ and devote themselves with joy to the service of God’s holy people. … All this multiform witness, inspired by the Holy Spirit, is a leaven for all society, as is shown by the effective work carried out in Uganda in the battle against AIDS and in the welcome to refugees”. The third stage in the Pope’s trip was the Central African Republic, the geographical heart of the continent, the heart of Africa. “This visit was in reality the first in my intentions, as it is a country that is trying to come out of a very difficult period, of violent conflicts and great suffering among the population. For this reason I wanted to open there, in Bangui, a week ahead of time, the Holy Door of the Jubilee of Mercy, as a sign of faith and hope for the people, and symbolically for all the African peoples who are most in need of redemption and consolation.” Christ’s invitation to His disciples – to go over to the other side – was the theme of this leg of the journey. “Passing to the other side, in the civil sense, means leaving behind war, divisions and poverty, and choosing peace, reconcilia-

tion, development. But this presupposes a ‘passage’ that takes place in the conscience, in the attitudes and intentions of the people. And at this level, the contribution of religious communities is decisive. For this reason I met with the Evangelical and the Muslim communities, sharing in prayer and commitment to peace. … And finally, in the final Mass in the Bangui stadium … we renewed our commitment to follow-

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Vatican City (VIS) – The first country he visited was Kenya. The Pope recalled that on many occasions he encouraged Kenyans to cherish the great wealth of their country: their natural and spiritual wealth, made up of the resources of the land, the new generations and the values that form the wisdom of the people. In this context, so dramatically relevant today, I had the joy of bringing Jesus’ Word of hope: be firm in faith, do not be afraid. This was the motto of the visit. A word that is lived every day by many humble and simple people, with noble dignity. In Uganda, the second country, the fiftieth anniversary of the canonisation of the nation’s martyrs by Blessed Paul VI set the tone for the visit. “For this, the motto was, ‘You will be my witnesses’. … the witness of charity … that involves many communities and associations in service to the poorest, the disabled, and the sick. There

ing Jesus, our hope, our peace, the face of Divine Mercy. This final Mass was marvellous: it was full of young people, a stadium full of the young! Half the population of the Central African Republic is less than eighteen year old; a promise for the future”. The Pope also spoke about missionaries, “the men and women who left their homeland, when they were young, leading a life of work, at times sleeping on the ground”. Francis mentioned that when he was in Bangui he met an Italian religious sister aged 81, who had been in Africa since she was 24, and had come to Bangui from her home in nearby Congo by canoe, accompanied by a child. “This is how missionaries are: brave”, he said. She was a nurse who then became a midwife, and had delivered 3,280 babies. “All a life, spent for life, for the life of others. And there are many more like her, many: nuns, priests, men

and women religious who spend their life proclaiming Jesus.” “I would like to say a word to the young”, he concluded. “Think about what you do with your lives. Think about that religious sister and the many others like her, who have given their lives, and so many others like her have died there. She told me that Muslim women came to her because they knew that religious sisters were good nurses who cure well, without giving catechesis to convert them! Bearing witness: then offering catechesis to those who want it. Witness is the great heroic missionary act of the Church. Announcing Jesus Christ with your own life. I ask the young: think about what you want to do with your life. It is the moment to think and ask the Lord to let you hear His will. But do not exclude, please, this possibility of becoming a missionary, to take love, humanity and faith to other countries.

Four County Catholic December 2015

Pope Francis Orders Financial Audit Rome - Pope Francis has ordered the most powerful bodies in the city-state to launch an unBy John Follain Bloomberg News

precedented financial audit. At the suggestion of his economic chief, Cardinal George Pell, Pope Francis has set up a “Working-Party for the Economic Future” which brings together the Secretariat of State, or prime minister’s office, the Vatican Bank and other agencies. Francis has told the panel “to address the financial challenges and identify how more resources can be devoted to the many good works of the Church, especially supporting the poor and vulnerable,” Danny Casey, director of Pell’s office at the Secretariat for the Economy, said in an interview. The pope’s initiatives come as five people stand trial in the Vatican over the leak of confidential documents in two books published last month that described corruption, mismanagement and wasteful spending by church officials. Those on trial deny wrongdoing. Pope Francis, 78, has pushed for more openness and transparency in Vatican financial and economic agencies but he has faced resistance from the Rome bureaucracy. On the flight back to Rome after a visit to Africa, Francis told

reporters that the so-called Vatileaks II scandal was an indication of the mess that he’s trying to sort out. The trial of two former Vatican employees alongside the books’ authors highlighted Church efforts “to seek out corruption, the things which aren’t right,” he said, according to a transcript provided by the Vatican. The working group, which held its first meeting last week, will study measures to cut costs and raise revenue as part of a long-term financial plan. “This will include comparing actual expenditure against budgets at a consolidated level, which is a new initiative,” Casey said. As officials try to drag the Vatican’s financial management into the 21st century, officials will appoint one of the world’s top-four accounting firms to review the Church’s processes, Casey said. The audit will look at financial investments, real estate and cultural assets. The four biggest firms are Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP, Deloitte & Touche LLP, EY LLP and KPMG LLP. Assets that would never be sold and thus have no market value -- including St Peter’s Basilica, the Sistine Chapel and priceless art treasures by Michelangelo -- will be included in financial statements though the Vatican is still considering whether and how they should be valued.

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Four County Catholic Please contact: Meredith Morrison (860) 887-3933 commeredith@norwichdiocese.net

The Good News is that Christmas brings the gift of faith, the blessings of hope and the peace of His love.

Thank You

For the opportunity to continue to share the news of our faith with you and for your kind and generous response to our recent fundraising appeal. Wishing you every blessing this Christmas and in the Year of Faith.

Your Four County Catholic Team

Jesus, My Friend Written by Lue Ann Watchus of Norwich, CT is now available at Amazon, Barnes & Noble, etc. in book and digital (e-book) format. The story is exhilirating from beginning to end - Readers will realize the richness of faith in Our Lord Jesus Christ as the characters unfold.

Four County Catholic December 2015

Wishing Wi W iissh you you a HAPPY& H & HEALTHY Holiday Season From our family to yours

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