Four County Catholic June 2014 by Diocese of Norwich

Volume 26 Number 6

June 2014

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

Four County Catholic June 2014

Oh God, hear our prayer for peace. Your power changes hearts.

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Serving the Counties of Middlesex New London Tolland Windham & Fishers Island NY

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

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It seems to me that if you go to high school for 50 years, you ought to have more than just one diploma. - SBS Headmaster, Tom Doherty, congratulating English teacher, Arthur Lamoureux, on receiving an honorary diploma from class of 2014, having taught at SBS for 46 years.

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Grant we pray, O heavenly Father, in this decisive hour in the history of our Nation, for the sake of our children, our grandchildren, and all who come after us – this great land will always be ‘one nation, under God.’ - Verse from Prayer for the Protection of Religious Liberty.

On the Cover Confirmation candidate, Jassiel Julia Chaparro, of Sagrado Corazon de Jesus Parish and the Corpus Christi Catholic Community, in a moment of prayer at the Confirmation ceremonies, St. Joseph Church, Willimantic, Ct, June 6, 2014. Empowered by the Grace of the Holy Spirit, the Confirmation Class of 2014 are ready as young adults to live the Gospel. Photo by Donna Antonacci.

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The deadline for advertising is the second Monday of the preceding month. (Discount rate available to Diocesan-sponsored ministries and programs.) The editorial deadline is the third Monday of the preceding month. Articles limited to 500-word max; letters to the editor limited to 200-word max and must include name, address and phone number for verification. Email photos as JPEG attachments and MS Word copy to comtrina@norwichdiocese.net or fax to 860.859.1253. Publication not guaranteed. The Editor reserves the right to reject, omit or edit all editorial and advertising copy. Published opinions and advertisements do not necessarily reflect the editorial position of this newspaper.

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Four County Catholic June 2014

The Most Reverend

Michael R. Cote, D.D.

My Dear Brothers and Sisters in Christ: Recently I had the opportunity to attend a ceremony at the State Capital in Hartford honoring the architects and artists responsible for the superb restoration of the Cathedral of St. Patrick. It was held in the historic Hall of Flags, where I happened to notice the State motto embroidered on the blue State flag and written in Latin -- “Qui transtulit sustinet.” This translates to “He who is transplanted still sustains.” It reminded me that the history of our State and our Country is so much the history of transplanting or migrating from other lands to this land. This land of opportunity. This land of freedom of religion. A land where people of all backgrounds can bring their customs and religious beliefs and sustain their faith and grow in their faith. Even more recently, I had the opportunity to attend a special anniversary celebration in the village of Melilli, Sicily. It commemorated the 600th anniversary of the discovery of the statue of St. Sebastian that had washed ashore in 1414. Legend has it that the statue was being shipped by

Bishop of Norwich

Faith Sustained

monks from the Middle East to Europe and the ship sank. Villagers from nearby Melilli carried the statue up to a higher elevation where they felt called to build a church. A church was built and rebuilt generations later following an earthquake. And still generations later, a church would be built in Middletown, Connecticut inspired by the original. What a remarkable and joyful example of transplanting one’s religious traditions here in America, complete with the festive annual celebration honoring St. Sebastian with a procession through the neighborhood and a closing Mass I have had the honor to celebrate more than once. It is an extraordinary experience to witness the tradition and passion of faith shared so closely by two parishes oceans apart. We are a young Country in comparison to the places from which Americans have immigrated. That young history reflects waves of immigration from Ireland, Poland, Italy, Germany and so many others countries and continents. This time in our history, we are experiencing in both Country and Church a significant

wave of Hispanic immigration. Here is a wonderful opportunity to continue the “transplanting and sustaining” tradition of the Catholic faith in the Diocese and across the Country. As we welcome these new traditions and celebrate the first Pope, His Holiness Pope Francis, from the Southern Hemisphere, we will find ever increasing ways to make our Hispanic brothers and sisters feel right at home in the Church. The diocesan Hispanic Ministry continues to lead the way. The Feast of Our Lady of Guadalupe has become one of the most festive and well-attended of all the annual celebrations. Accordingly, we have included a magnificent mural of Señora de Guadalupe as part of the just completed restoration of the Cathedral of St. Patrick. There are many continuing acknowledgments of our Spanish-speaking fellow parishioners such as the translating of this column each month into Spanish and bi-lingual liturgy on many occasions. I have been studying the results of the latest Pew Research Center reports on the religious identity of Latinos. Yes, there is concern that

there has been a rise in switching from the Catholic faith. As I look at the statistics, I see that the Catholic Church actually has a higher retention rate than any single Christian denomination. The survey results are somewhat mixed, but underscore our mission to be more diligent in our evangelization, our liturgy and in the increasing attention to the traditions and spiritual needs of the growing Hispanic segment of the Church family. We must also be outspoken in support of legislation consistent with the social justice teachings of the Church and of immediate impact on Hispanic families. At the top of these concerns is immigration reform. Just days ago, several of my fellow bishops, led by Archbishop Thomas Wenski and Auxiliary Bishop Elizondo, Chairman of the U.S. Conference of Catholic Bishops’ Committee on Migration, visited Capital Hill to deliver a strong written and spoken pro-reform message, “When laws fail to advance the common good, they can and should be changed.” Let us work hard to be part of the solution for so many hard-

working Hispanic families to provide them the opportunity to continue to contribute to society and make a better life for their children. You can help. June 13th has been designated a Call your Representative day. The telephone numbers have been posted in this issue of the newspaper and also online. Let’s make that call to our Congressional Representatives and encourage them to vote for immigration reform that supports a path to citizenship and preserves family unity. The spirit of transplanting and sustaining the faith has served all within the Church family of diverse ancestral backgrounds. We welcome the newest groups into the family and will provide them with vitality of worship and a supportive community of faith. As we follow the inspiring reawakening message of the Holy Father Pope Francis, we will be the inclusive community of faith as intended and gifted to us by Jesus Christ. Sincerely yours in Christ’s love, Bishop Michael R. Cote

La Fe Prolongada Queridos Hermanos y Hermanas: Recientemente tuve la oportunidad de asistir a una ceremonia en la capital del Estado en Hartford en honor a los arquitectos y a los artistas responsables de la magnífica restauración de la Catedral de Saint Patrick. Se llevó a cabo en el histórico Salón de Banderas. Dado el entorno, me fijé en el lema del Estado bordado en su bandera azul y escrito en latín-

“Qui transtulit sustinet.” Esto se traduce en: “El que se trasplanta aún se prolonga.” Me recordó que la historia de nuestro Estado y de nuestro País es tanto la historia de trasplante o migración de otras tierras a esta tierra. Esta tierra de oportunidades. Esta tierra de libertad de religión. Una tierra donde personas de todos los orígenes puede traer sus costumbres y creencias religiosas y prolongar

su fe y crecer en ella. Incluso más recientemente, tuve la oportunidad de asistir a una celebración especial de aniversario en la aldea de Melilli, Sicilia. Se conmemoró el 600a aniversario del descubrimiento de la estatua de San Sebastián que se había lavado en tierra en 1414. Cuenta la leyenda que la estatua estaba siendo transportada por monjes desde el Oriente Medio a

Europa y el barco se hundió. Los aldeanos de las cercanías de Melilli llevaron la estatua hasta una elevación más alta donde se sintieron llamados a construir una iglesia. Una iglesia fue construida y generaciones más tarde reconstruida después de un terremoto. Y todavía generaciones más tarde, una iglesia se construyó en Middletown, Connecticut inspirada en la original. Qué ejemplo tan

notable y alegre de prolongar las propias tradiciones religiosas aquí en Estados Unidos, completo con la festividad anual en honor a San Sebastián con una procesión por el barrio y una misa de clausura que he tenido el honor de celebrar más de una vez. Es una experiencia extraordinaria que da testimonio de la tradición y la pasión de La Fe Prolongada Continued on page 4

Four County Catholic June 2014

La Fe Prolongada

Continued from page 3

la fe compartida tan cerca por dos parroquias separadas por océanos. Somos un país joven en comparación a los lugares desde donde los estadounidenses han inmigrado. Esa joven historia refleja oleadas de inmigración de Irlanda, Polonia, Italia, Alemania y muchos otros países y continentes. Esta vez en nuestra historia, estamos experimentando en ambos País e Iglesia una oleada significante de inmigración hispana. Aquí hay una oportunidad maravillosa para continuar “trasplantando y prolongando” la

tradición de la fe Católica en la Diócesis y en todo el País. Al dar bienvenida a estas nuevas tradiciones y al celebrar a Su Santidad el Papa Francisco, el primer Papa desde el hemisferio sur, cada vez encontraremos más formas de hacer que nuestros hermanos y hermanas hispanos se sientan como en casa en la Iglesia. El Ministerio Hispano diocesano continúa abriendo el camino. La Fiesta de Nuestra Señora de Guadalupe se ha convertido en una de las más festivas y concurridas de todas las celebraciones

anuales. En consecuencia, hemos incluido un magnifico mural de la Señora de Guadalupe como parte de la terminada restauración de la Catedral de Saint Patrick. Hay muchos reconocimientos continuos de nuestros feligreses de habla hispana, como la traducción mensual de esta columna al español y en muchas ocasiones la liturgia bilingüe. He estado estudiando los resultados de los últimos informes del Centro de Investigaciones PEW sobre la identidad religiosa de los latinos. Sí, hay una preocupación

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

de que ha habido un aumento en los que se han cambiado de la fe Católica. Cuando miro las estadísticas, veo que la Iglesia Católica actualmente tiene una tasa de retención más alta que cualquier otra denominación cristiana. Los resultados de la encuesta son un tanto variados, pero subrayan nuestra misión de ser más diligentes en nuestra evangelización, nuestra liturgia y en el aumento de atención a las tradiciones y a las necesidades espirituales del creciente segmento hispano de la familia de la iglesia. También al igual que los obispos estadounidenses debemos ser sinceros en apoyo de la legislación, perseverantes con las enseñanzas de justicia social de la Iglesia y de impacto inmediato en las familias hispanas. Por encima de estas preocupaciones está la reforma migratoria. Hace apenas unos días, varios de mis compañeros obispos, encabezados por el Arzobispo Thomas Wenski, y el Obispo auxiliar Eusebio Elizondo, Presidente del Comité Migración de la Conferencia Episcopal de E.E.U.U., visitaron el Capitolio para entregar un fuerte mensaje escrito y hablado a favor de la reforma, “Cuando las leyes fracasan para avanzar en el bien común, pueden y deben ser cambiadas.”

Trabajemos con gran esfuerzo para ser parte de la solución de muchas familias hispanas trabajadoras para proporcionarles la oportunidad de seguir contribuyendo a la sociedad y hacer una vida mejor para sus hijos. Usted puede ayudar. El 13 de junio ha sido designado un día para llamar a su Representante. Los números de teléfono han sido publicados en este ejemplar de periódico y también en línea. Hagamos esa llamada a nuestros Representantes del Congreso y exhortémoslos a votar por una reforma migratoria que apoye el camino a la ciudadanía y preserve la unidad familiar. El espíritu de trasplantar de diversos orígenes ancestrales y prolongar la fe ha servido a todos dentro de la familia de la Iglesia. Damos bienvenida a los grupos más nuevos en la familia y les proporcionaremos con vitalidad de culto y una comunidad de fe de apoyo. Mientras seguimos el inspirador mensaje de despertar del Santo Padre Francisco, seremos una comunidad de fe inclusiva tal cono fue diseñada y dotada a nosotros por Jesucristo. Sinceramente, en el amor de Cristo, Obispo Michael R. Cote Translated by Paulina Angulo

Reverend Brian Christopher Maxwell, Ordained to Priesthood on May 25, 2013, by the Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, D.D., Bishop of Norwich at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich

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Four County Catholic June 2014

Director of Priestly Vocations

Reverend Gregory Galvin

Joyful Anticipation of July 26 Ordination Last month you read the reflections of our two transitional deacons as they are now preparing for their priestly Ordinations later this summer on July 26, 2014 at St. Patrick Cathedral in Norwich. As you read this article here in early June, our seminarians have already finished the past year at the seminary and have returned home. On a more regular basis, I will be including a brief paragraph or more entitled, “Vocation Notes” to assist in giving a more consistent update regarding our seminarians. As we enter into the summer months, I offer the following Vocations Notes: Summer assignments - each summer following their year of formation at a particular seminary, major seminarians are given assignments through the vocation office in order to continue their progress of “formation and preparation” in readying themselves for diocesan priesthood. This summer, Jeff Ellis and Peter Langevin will be spending six weeks in Guatemala taking part in a spanish immersion program so they may both continue improving both their ability to speak the language and to deepen their understanding of Spanish culture. Please pray for Jeff and Peter as they left on May 30th and return on July 13th. Our transitional deacons will each be spending a shorter summer assignment in a parish here in the diocese as a way of final preparation for their work after Priestly Ordination later in July. Deacon Martin Noe, who graduated from Holy

Apostles Seminary earlier this past May, will be assisting at St. Patrick Parish in East Hampton under the guidance of Father Walter Nagle. Deacon Jon Ficara, who will return from Rome in June, will spend his final summer assignment assisting Monsignor Tony Rosaforte at Saint Patrick Cathedral in Norwich. Both deacons will then have a little time to themselves to focus and prepare for their Priestly Ordination which Bishop Cote will celebrate on the morning of July 26, 2014 at 10am at Saint Patrick Cathedral. The ordination is open to the public. If you have never seen a Priestly Ordination, please join us on this special day for the diocese. Juan Aguirre, our candidate from Columbia who has been busy learning English the last two academic years in Worcester at Clark University, is splitting his summer assignment between St. Mary Star of the Sea Church in New London and St. Francis of Assisi Church in Middletown. Juan will return to Worcester for five additional weeks of English study before hopefully being accepted into and placed for studies at St. Mary Seminary in Baltimore Maryland, the oldest seminary in the country. I am pleased to announce that Frank Gilbert who last summer was accepted by Bishop Cote as a seminarian for the diocese but then because of medical issue had to be put on hold, has been cleared of the issue and given permission to continue pursuing seminary studies. Frank will begin the next part of his journey at Saint John XXIII Na-

Pope Francis @Pontifex • June 1 At times we can be self‐absorbed. Lord, help us to open our hearts to others and to serve those who are most vulnerable.

tional Seminary in Weston MA, hopefully joining one of our other men, Tom Griffin who will be entering his third year of studies there. Please keep Tom in your prayers as he recently experienced a medical issue and is also recovering from recent surgery, hoping to be recovered and able to continue with his studies this Fall. This July 9 - 11, along with one of our college seminarians, Kurt O’Brien and I will be attending a three day conference in Philadelphia PA on the Theology of the Body. In the August issue of the FCC, I hope to announce the acceptance of additional seminarians who are presently finishing the application process and hopefully will have another candidate who will by that time also be working on the application for the diocese. As you can tell, there is a great deal going on and this is the fruit of so many prayers being said around the diocese. Please continue to pray personally for an increase of priestly

Pope Francis’ Prayer Intentions for June That the unemployed may receive support and find the work they need to live in dignity.

vocations for our diocese; please continue to join Bishop Cote and myself for our Diocesan Monthly Eucharist Holy Hour for Vocations; and please continue to keep an eye out for those you think have the qualities that would make them great priests or great religious. Pray

for them, mention them to your pastor and encourage them to seek God’s plan for them in their life before making any other “lifetime decisions”. May God bless you all with a healthy summer season and safety for all those traveling.

Some White Collar Jobs Are More Challenging Than Others

You have been thinking about it. Let’s talk...

Father Greg Galvin 860-887-9294 www.God-Calls.org Office of Vocations • Diocese of Norwich, CT • vocations@norwichdiocese.net

Four County Catholic June 2014

St. Joseph Parish, Norwich, CT Invites you to

Poland September 7-16, 2014

Spiritual Director: Monsignor Leszek Janik

10 days in historic picturesque Poland!

WARSAW, CZESTOCHOWA, KRAKOW, WADOWICE, ZAKOPANE AND BUSKO ZDROJ

June is “Leave a Legacy” Month It’s a wonderful time to remind parishioners in the Diocese about the value of charitable estate planning. If you are interested in learning more about how you can leave your legacy, please contact Angela Arnold, Executive Director, Diocesan Office of Development by telephone at 860-886-1928 ext. 13, or e-mail dod@norwichdiocese.net. Tuesday, June 10 29th Annual Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction Honoring Kevin Ollie & Jackie MacMullan The 29th Annual Franciscan Sports Banquet and Silent Auction to benefit The Franciscan Life Center and Franciscan Home Care and Hospice Care will be held from, 5:309:30pm, at the Aqua Turf Club, Plantsville, Connecticut. Honored

ART UNL MIT TED ED

Visit vibrant cities, sacred shrines, stunning architecture, special places in the life of Saint John Paul II and unique symbols of Poland’s national identity. Tour cost of $2,975. covers round-trip air, private motor coach, 8 nights hotel accommodation, breakfast and dinner daily. For more information and to register, call Monsignor Janik 860-887-1565. Zawsze pamiętaj, wycieczka do

Please join us for the

guests are: Saint Francis Award: Kevin Ollie, Head Men’s Basketball Coach, UCONN Huskies NCAA Champions; Saint Clare Award: Jackie MacMullan, award-winning columnist, author and sports writer, ESPN; Jim Calhoun Community Service Award: Guy DeFrances, Sr., Esquire; The Dean of Sport Award, Dave Bike, Retired Men’s Basketball Coach, Sacred Heart University; Special recognition to Jon Proto, Defensive Tackle, Mount Ida College; North Haven and Southington Football Teams; Connecticut Special Olympians. For reservations or more information visit www.flcenter.org or call 203-237-8084.

Saturday, June 14 Flag Day Saturday, June 14 Annual Strawberry Festival St. Lawrence Church will host the Annual Strawberry Festival at 7 Hemlock Drive at Route 81 in Killingworth. The Craft Fair & Giant Auction is from 10:00am to 4:00pm. The event includes a craft fair, plant sale, silent auction, quilt raffle, tag sale, book sale, children’s games and clowns for entertainment. Fried dough, hot dogs, hamburgers, chowder, french fries, assorted beverages and their famous homemade strawberry shortcake available for purchase. Live auction starts at 11:00am. Admission is free and there is ample parking. Portable restrooms available. Come for a day filled with fun for the entire family!

Ordination to Holy Priesthood of Deacons Martin Noe & Jonathan Ficara

Saturday, July 26, 2014 at 10:00 am Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich

Four County Catholic June 2014

Thursday , June 16 Catholic Foundation Awards Dinner The Catholic Foundation will hold its annual Awards Dinner at 5:30pm at the Holiday Inn in Norwich. The Catholic Foundation of the Diocese of Norwich is a nonprofit corporation, established to provide endowments for the Diocese of Norwich and its parishes, schools, agencies and organizations. For further information please contact Mary Ellen Mahoney, Development Coordinator for Diocesan Schools at 860-886-1928 ext. 14, or e-mail developmentdso@ norwichdiocese.net. Weds.-Thurs., June 18- 26 Sisters Retreat Daughters of Mary In Rochester, N.H.. For more information please call Spiritual Renewal 860-887-0702. Saturday, June 28 Healing and Freedom Conference (Unbound) From 8:45 am to 7:15 pm at the Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich. Father Ray Introvigne, Judith Hughes and Team. Must register at 860-887-0702, donation $25.

photography, as well as music/sports memorabilia. Preview will be at 6:00pm and the auction will start at 7:00pm. Complimentary wine, beer and hors d’oeuvres will be served. Bring your friends because this will be an exciting, funfilled evening. Tickets are $20 per person or $30 per couple. For tickets or more information, please contact Bill Albro at (860) 8333398 or Janet Fay at (860) 5524492. Friday-Sunday, June 27-29 Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat Weekend Healing, forgiveness and peace from post-abortion grief can begin with a Rachel’s Vineyard Retreat. Retreat June 27-29 in RI call 401-4217833 x118. Retreat July 11-15 in Stockbridge, MA call 413-4520661. www.rachelsvineyard.org Friday-Sunday, July 11-13 Marriage Encounter Weekend The perfect weekend for couples to fall in love all over again. Rediscover each other with a heart to heart Marriage Encounter. For informa-

tion on the weekend in Manchester on July 11-13 call 860-376-0440. wwme.org. Tuesday, September 9 Annual Diocesan Mass of Remembrance A Mass in memory of preborn children who have died from stillbirths, miscarriages or abortions will be held at the Cathedral of St. Patrick, at 6:00pm. A remembrance of children who have died recently or years ago. Bishop Michael R. Cote will be the main celebrant for the Mass. Refreshments follow the Mass. Sponsored by the Family Life Office and ProLife Office. For information call 860-889-8346 ext. 283. Gift of Grace 2014 The Gift of Grace 2014 training schedule is as follows: Saturday, September 20, Saturday, September 27, Saturday, October 4, Saturday, October 18 and Sunday, December 7. Pre-registration is required. For more information, please contact Sheree at 860.848.2237 Ext. 211 or email prison@norwichdiocese.net.

Saturday, July 19 Auction at St. Mark Parish St. Mark Parish Hall at 222 McVeagh Rd., Westbrook, will be filled with a tremendous array of fine framed artwork in all media, including oils, watercolors, serigraphs, lithographs, giclees and

“...WHO CHOSE YOU!!” Matthew 15:14-16

“I Love You (your name) with an EVERLASTING LOVE!” Jeremiah 31:3

50th Anniversary Mass & Reception June 1, 2014, Cathedral of St. Patrick, Norwich 1:00 pm-4:30 pm for Fr. Ray Introvigne Our Lady of Lourdes Prayer Group Mass Wednesday, June 5, 2014 at 7:00 pm 1650 Route 12, Gales Ferry, CT Mass of Healing-Monday, June 9 & Monday June 30 1:00 pm - Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich Fr. Ray, Celebrant, Judith Hughes-Healing Prayers Sisters Retreat-Daughters of Mary June 18, 2014 to June 26, 2014, Rochester, N.H. Fr. Ray and Judith Hughes One Day Life In The Spirit Seminars St. Mary Convent, Putnam, CT Our Lady of Lourdes, Gales Ferry, CT Saturday, June 7, 2014 from 9:00 am to 4:00 pm

Monday, June 30 Mass of Healing 1:00 pm - Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich. Father Ray Introvigne, Celebrant, Judith Hughes Healing Prayers. For more information please call Spiritual Renewal at 860-887-0702. Wednesday, July 16 The Spirituality of Transition: Covering Secretaries to Administrative Assistants From 10:00am to 3:00pm at the Immaculata Retreat House, 289 Windham Road, Willimantic. This retreat will include two Conferences, lunch and the Celebration of the Eucharist. All Secretaries and Administrative Assistants are invited to attend. The fee is $15.00 per person which will be collected on the day of the retreat. For information or to register, call Jennifer at 860423-8484 or email your registration to info@immaculataretreat.org. Registration is required by July 1st for the luncheon count.

“You (your name) are My friend(s) if you do what I command you. I no longer call you servants (slaves), because a servant (slave) does not know what his master is doing. I have called you FRIENDS, because I have told you EVERYTHING I have heard from My Father. It was not you (your name) who chose Me, it was I...

Healing and Freedom Conference (Unbound) Saturday, June 28, 2014, 8:45 am to 7:15 pm Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich, CT Fr. Ray, Judith Hughes and Team Must register at 860-887-0702-Donation $25. Prayer, Praise, Worship and Adoration Every Tuesday evening @ 6:30 pm Spiritual Renewal Center, Norwich, CT Leaders: Usually Deacon Jim Delaney and Nancy Delaney Spiritual Pilgrimage to Italy-Venice-Florence-Assisi-Rome Audience with Pope Francis October 29-November 8, 2014 Sponsored by Spiritual Renewal Services Call for information 860-887-0702 “Everyone’s welcomed to these programs!

June 2 - Nov. 2, 2014

spiritual renewal services Diocese of Norwich

Dial-A-Prayer (860) 887-7767

1 State Street, New Haven • Free Admission & Parking 203-865-0400 • kofcmuseum.org

P.O. Box 6 • 11 Bath Street Norwich, CT 06360 • (860) 887-0702 email: Renewal@catholicweb.com

Four County Catholic June 2014

Diocese Celebrates Annual Mass for Healthcare Workers “Lord, Great Healer, I Kneel Before You.” Healthcare workers of all faiths gathered at the Cathedral of St. Patrick on Sunday, May 4, 2014 From the FCC News Desk

to celebrate the Twenty-fourth Annual White Mass. All were welcomed to the newly restored Cathedral by Cathedral Rector and Principal Celebrant Monsignor Anthony Rosaforte. The congregation included doctors, nurses, practitioners, technicians, caregivers, administrators and staff from hospitals, medical facilities and mobile units from across Eastern/Southeastern Connecticut. All present listened to a moving homily by Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk, P.h.D. recounting the experience of Terry Anderson, AP correspondent, held captive in Beirut for seven years. His is an inspiring story of reintroducing himself to the Bible during his captivity and having his faith come alive and his life take on a new and deeper meaning. As Father Tad reminded the congregation, “We too have the beautiful and life-redeeming opportunity to meet Him in the forgiveness of our sins through confession, in the breaking of bread and in the power of his

Word burning within our hearts.” Father Tad, Director of Education at the National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia, also delivered the David P. Lauler and Joan M. Lauler B.S.N. Memorial Lecture at the brunch following Mass. Father Tad’s topic was the Determination of Death and Organ Donation, which engendered an interesting series of questions from the luncheon audience. The central medical and moral issue is, “Are the donors dead before excision of organs?” a fundamental right received from the Creator. If the separation of the body and life cannot be verified, or if there is doubt about the separation of the body and life, organ

Father Ralph DiOrio

Mass and Healing Service Sunday, August 17 • Sunday, November 9

Sturbridge Host Conference Center • Sturbridge, MA Cost $49 (includes $10 ticket) Children & Teenagers welcome as our guest

Father Tadeusz Pacholczyk, P.h.D., Director of Education at the National Catholic Bioethics Center in Philadelphia, gives a moving homily at the Twenty-fourth Annual White Mass for Healthcare Workers at the Cathedral of Saint Patrick, Norwich. Photos by Donna Antonacci excision is morally prohibited and should not be allowed. From a medical perspective, the possibility of varying interpretations of cessation of life can present heightened ethical questions when the urgency of organ dona-

tions is present. A complex topic of much interest to the healthcare professionals present. Congratulations to Deacon L. Shaw, M.D. as Chairperson of the White Mass Committee and Master of Ceremonies at this year’s brunch. White Mass Committee members are Michael M. Deren, M.D., Sister Rita John-

son, S.S.N.D., Robert J. Keltner, M.D., Thomas H. Lesnik, M.D., Mrs. Madelyn M. Lyman, R.N., Deacon William H. McGann III, Setu K. Vora, M.D. and Monsignor Robert L. Brown. An announcement of the date of next year’s Twenty-fifth anniversary White Mass will be made soon.

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This year, the theme of the two week observance focuses on “Freedom to Serve.” It emphasizes “the link between liberty and service to the poor and vulnerable.” On June 21, 2014, at 5:30 p.m., Archbishop Lori, the Chairman of the Ad Hoc Committee for Religious Liberty of the United States Conference of Catholic Bishops, will celebrate Mass at the Baltimore Basilica; On July 4, at Noon, Cardinal Donald Wuerl, the Archbishop of Washington, will celebrate Mass at the Basilica of the National Shrine of the Immaculate Conception in Monsignor Robert L. Brown, Chancellor, Diocese of Norwich, celebrates the Memorial Day Mass on May 26, 2014 at Saint Mary Cemetery, New London. Photo by Trina Fulton

The residents of Rook Retirement Community in Cromwell, a Marian Housing property whose Board is compromised of members of the Norwich Diocese, observed Memorial Day with a Ceremony of Remembrance honoring WWII Army veteran Anthony Rook and Air Force veteran Albert Rook, after whose mother the Community is named. Rep. Christie Carpino, Sen. Paul Doyle, Jay Polke (CromwellMan of the Year), Elinor DeRenne (Cromwell Woman of the Year), Larry McHugh (President, Middlesex Chamber of Commerce) and Rick Kowalker with Melody, the Riderless Horse, all took part in the ceremony held on May 23. Submitted by Jackie Haywood

Washington, D.C. USCCB President Archbishop Joseph Kurtz of Louisville, will be the homilist. Archbishop William E. Lori, notes that this third Fortnight For Freedom, is a time when Catholics can unite themselves in prayer to men and women throughout history who spread the Gospel and lived out Jesus’ call to serve the ‘least of these’ in even the direst of circumstances.” Following is a prayer provided to all Dioceses to join the Catholic voices of Freedom together in unity of appeal to God our Creator, to preserve “one Nation under God.”

Prayer for the Protection of Religious Liberty

O God our Creator, from your provident hand we have received our right to life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness. You have called us as your people and given us the right and the duty to worship you, the only true God, and your Son, Jesus Christ. Through the power and working of your Holy Spirit, you call us to live out our faith in the midst of the world, bringing the light and the saving truth of the Gospel to every corner of society. We ask you to bless us in our vigilance for the gift of religious liberty. Give us the strength of mind and heart to readily defend our freedoms when they are threatened; give us courage in making our voices heard on behalf of the rights of your Church and the freedom of conscience of all people of faith. Grant, we pray, O heavenly Father, a clear and united voice to all your sons and daughters gathered in your Church in this decisive hour in the history of our nation, so that, with every trial withstood and every danger overcome— for the sake of our children, our grandchildren, and all who come after us— this great land will always be “one nation, under God, indivisible, with liberty and justice for all.” We ask this through Christ our Lord. Amen.

Four County Catholic June 2014

600 Years of Tradition The Parish of St. Sebastian in Middletown celebrated the 93rd annual Feast of St. Sebastian last By Michael Strammiello Executive Editor, Four County Catholic

month just a short while after the recent completion of the latest

renovations to their magnificent parish Church. Among the improvements to the church are a new tile floor, all new ergonomically designed pews and a freshly cleaned and appointment altar and sanctuary. Although modeled after the Church of St. Sebastian

in Melilli, Sicily, the replica may have become more the masterpiece of late than the original. The enthusiasm for the Patron Saint of the Parish, for the traditions of their faith and a sentimental attachment to the little town in Sicily are all responsible for the impeccably maintained church on Wa s h i n g t o n Street just off Main in Middletown. While festivities as usual this year included the procession of the statue of St. Sebastian through the neighborhood, the running of I Nuri in customary white dress with red sashes and a closing Mass celebrated by the Most Reverend Peter A. Rosazza, D.D., Auxiliary Bishop Emeritus,

Archdiocese of Hartford, similar festivities were taking place in the town of Melilli, 4,000 miles from Washington and Main. Remarkably, in Sicily they were celebrating a 600th year anniversary. This is not a misprint. It had been 600 years since the historic St. Sebastian statue washed ashore in t h e Mediterranean and inspired the villagers in Melilli to build the first church to honor St. Sebastian. To honor this occasion, The Most Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich and Father James Thaikoottathil, Pastor of St. Sebastian Parish attended the cele-

bration, a celebration that continues there for days and is very much a complete town event. Also present, were over 300 people from Connecticut. Not to accentuate the obvious, but 600-year anniversaries donâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t come along every day. It was a joyful celebration. Pictured here are photographs of Bishop Cote and Father James in the crowded town square near the Church of Saint Sebastian. Also pictured is the I Nuri gathering outside St. Sebastian in Middletown. Other photographs show the interior of St. Sebastian Church in Melilli.

Four County Catholic June 2014

A Resilient Faith Community Rebuilds and Recovers As the one-year anniversary of the fire that closed our church on Valley Street in Willimantic apBy Anne Pappalardo

proaches, St. Mary’s parish family would like to convey deep gratitude to the devoted, loving people who have prayed and assisted in our efforts to reopen our church. One year ago, on May 16th,

Roger J. Lamoureux, OMI, would like to thank everyone that has supported them in this great labor of love. These include Bishop Michael Cote for his full support from the night of the fire when he promised Fr. Lamoureux that St. Mary’s would indeed reopen and would be better than ever. We are truly grateful to the

Very Rev. Laurence LaPointe and the parishioners of St. Joseph’s Church, who generously welcomed us into their church to continue our services with the anticipation that St. Mary’s would rise again from the ashes. The parish is also thankful for all parishioners that comprise the Corpus Christi Catholic Community of Windham for their deour hearts sank as we watched flames and smoke rise above our church. While spirits were low, the continued prayers and encouragement extended by countless people in the Windham area assured us of our goal. The heartbreak that dominated the parish community has been replaced with hope and rejoicing, just twelve months after the fire. Parishioners’ prayers, hopes and dreams are finally coming to fruition. The church now has a new roof and all masonry and wood construction has been repaired. At this point, the exterior building now shows no evidence of the fire, and workers are continuing with the ongoing repair of the interior including rewiring and plumbing tasks, the plastering of ceilings and walls, and the repair and leading of windows. Decisions about floors and pews are currently underway and plans for a new, handicapped-accessible bathroom have been finalized. While it is estimated that the final details may take another 6 months to complete, St. Mary’s parishioners, along with Rev.

voted support and prayers and for making St. Mary’s parishioners welcome in their individual spiritual houses of worship. The parish family is also ex-

pressing tremendous respect and gratitude for its general contractor, Pelletier Builders, Inc. The company surpassed all expectations in their sensitivity for the church building and parish community, as well as their professional approach to the project. Thanks also go to Robin Holtsclaw of Catholic Mutual Insurance, and to the many contractors and tradesmen who showed the utmost respect for, and took great care of, the church structure. “I am sincerely grateful to our parish families for their unwavering moral and financial support. We are also very thankful for the continued progress of the restoration. We so look forward to the day we are finally able to return to our parish home,” stated Father Lamoureux.

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OBLATE ASSOCIATES: This group of men and women will meet at Immaculata on Wednesday, June 11 from 2:30 4:00 PM. We will spend our time learning about the charism of the founder of the Oblates of Mary Immaculate, Saint Eugene deMazenod. If you are interested in deepening your spiritual life, come and join us. Call and let us know you are coming. We would love to have you join us. (860) 423 8484.

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Four County Catholic June 2014

Liturgical Treasures in the Month of June The Liturgical Year is moving on, long past Lent, and now through the Easter SeaBy Sister Elissa Rinere, CP, JCD Office of Worship

son to Pentecost. Just before we return to “Ordinary Time” in July, we encounter a parade of celebrations on every one of the Sundays of June. Each one is rich in mean-

ing and history. This year, the first Sunday of June is the great Solemnity of Pentecost. Pentecost is the 50th day of the Easter celebration, and its conclusion. On Pentecost we celebrate the gift of the Holy Spirit to the Church, and the Spirit’s abiding presence with each of us in our own lives, just as Jesus promised. Perhaps we can find a few moments on this great feast to recall

the gifts of the Holy Spirit, and to appreciate the ways in which they are active in our lives. The gifts are wisdom, understanding, counsel, knowledge, fortitude, piety and fear of the Lord. The last listed gift, “fear of the Lord,” is defined, not as traditionally understood “fear,” but as “wonder and awe at the greatness of God.” The second Sunday of June is the Solemnity of the Most Holy

Diocese of Norwich Pilgrimage to the Czech Republic To See the Miraculous Statue of the Infant Jesus of Prague With Bishop Michael R. Cote

October 29 ~ November 4, 2014 ost Reverend Michael R. Cote, Bishop of Norwich, will lead a seven day pilgrimage to the Czech Republic to Karlovy Vary (Carlsbad), the Marian Shrine at Svatá Hora (Holy Mountain) featuring a miraculous image of the Virgin Mary and the spectacular Basilica. The group will enjoy a panoramic tour of the city of Prague highlighting the State Opera, National Museum, Wenceslas Square and Prague’s Castle District. We will also tour the old part of the city to view staromĕstkĕ námĕstí (Old Town Square), Royal Castle of Hradcany, St. Vitus Cathedral, St. George Church, the Golden Lane, St. Nicholas Church, Church of Our Lady of Victory where the original miraculous Infant Jesus of Prague dating back to 1628 is kept and visit St. Barbara Cathedral in Kutna Hora (UNESCO town). Cost of Tour:

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Trinity, or Trinity Sunday. This celebration focuses out attention on a core mystery of our faith; the three divine persons of the One God. This unfathomable mystery plays a very important role in our lives. We are baptized in the name of the Trinity. We profess our faith in the Trinity with every Sign of the Cross, with every proclamation of the Creed at Mass, with every recitation of “Glory be to the Father....” Most especially, at every Mass we proclaim our faith in the Trinity with our response to the doxology recited by the priest at the conclusion of each Eucharistic Prayer, “Through Him and with Him and in Him, O God Almighty Father, in the unity of the Holy Spirit, all glory and honor is yours for ever and ever. “Amen!” On the third Sunday of June we celebrate the Solemnity of the Most Holy Body and Blood of Christ. This feast was first observed in Belgium in the mid-thirteenth century, but within one hundred years was observed throughout the entire Church. On this feast, our hearts and minds are turned to another unfathomable mystery at the core of our faith, the Eucharist. The abiding presence of Christ with us, the Real Presence, and the incomprehensible gift which has been given to us in Christ. In the readings for this day we hear St. Paul telling the Corinthians, and

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us, of our unity in Christ: “Because the loaf of bread is one, we, though many are one body, for we all partake of the one loaf.” In the Gospel, we hear the promise of Jesus, “I am the living bread that came down from heaven;

whoever eats this bread will live forever.” On this great solemnity, perhaps we can find the time to consider these words, this great gift, and in what ways our lives and actions are different because we are a Eucharistic people. The final Sunday of June is the Solemnity of Saints Peter and Paul. Again, this celebration brings us back to the deep roots of our faith, but by way of the two apostles and martyrs known as the “pillars” of the Church. The joining of the commemorations of Peter and Paul brings to light the diversity of gifts in the Church. The two saints are honored equally, but their works as early followers of Jesus were very different. The Preface of the Mass for this day gives us a few comparisons. Peter is named “foremost in confessing the faith,” while Paul is designated as “outstanding preacher.” Peter is credited with forming the Church “from the remnant of Israel,” while Paul is “master and teacher of the Gentiles.” The Preface goes on, “And so, each in a different way, gathered together the one family of Christ ...” This one family of Christ now extends to every part of our world, with different talents and works being exercised for the sake of the Gospel. What gifts and talents does each of us bring to the effort begun by Jesus, and built up by Saints Peter and Paul? Just as in the early days of the Church, the message of Jesus must still be preached, and each follower of Jesus is called to make her or his unique contribution. What is yours?

Four County Catholic June 2014

A Legacy of Generosity and Christian Spirit The Diocese of Norwich recognizes June as “Leave a Legacy Month.” This initiative reminds By MaryLou Gannotti Director of Planned Giving

parishioners in the Diocese about the importance of philanthropy through estate planning. By making a gift through your estate, your donation can help those in need and provide you with an attractive tax benefit. Thanks to your generosity and careful planning, the Church can continue to promote the work of Christ in and around our region and beyond. One of the biggest misconceptions people have about legacy giving is they often think they have to be wealthy to make an estate gift. This is far from true! Your estate does not have to rival that of the Vanderbilt’s. Your estate is comprised of your total property and assets upon your passing. This includes your home, your posses-

sions, and your financial savings. If you would like to take advantage of this form of philanthropy and are still curious as to just how you can do this, we’ve compiled a “Top 10” list to help get you started.

Here are some of the top 10 ways to “Leave a Legacy.” 1. Prepare or update your will. 2. Set aside a gift in your will for your parish, the Diocese, or one of the many Annual Catholic Appeal supported ministries. 3. Name your parish, the Diocese, or an ACA funded ministry as the beneficiary of an existing life insurance policy, or purchase a new policy and name your selected charity as the beneficiary. 4. Remember your loved ones

through a charitable bequest in their honor. 5. Name your parish, Diocese, or ACA funded ministry as the beneficiary of your pension plan or IRA. 6. Discuss with your advisors the tax advantages you can enjoy now by leaving a gift in your will to the Church. 7. Consider using assets for your legacy gift. 8. Ask your financial or estate planning advisor to include charitable giving as part of your overall financial plan. Encourage them to do so with other clients. 9. Explore the advantages of a charitable gift annuity or charitable trust. 10. Spread the word! Let your family, friends, and fellow parishioners and advisors know that you have taken responsibility for your legacy and for the wellbeing of the Church. If you are inspired to begin the process to “Leave a Legacy,” please contact Angela Arnold, Executive Director, Diocesan Office of Development by telephone at 860-8861928 ext. 13, or e-mail dod@norwichdiocese.net. You can also visit www.norwichdiocesede-

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In a Time of Great Need, Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Clinic is There for Those Who Need Help Since the devastating acts of violence that occurred at Sandy Hook Elementary School, By Anna DeBiasi Development Coordinator, Catholic Charities, Diocese of Norwich

and even more recently at Jonathan Law High School in Milford, Connecticut, mental health has been at the forefront of conversations and concerns of Connecticut residentsand rightly so. Often, the stigma of mental illness and the fear of being associated with it, stops people from seeking the help they need. For many years, mental illness has been feared and misunderstood by the general public, and far too few people reach out for help. During a time of mental health

crisis in our state, Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Clinic is there for those in need. With the new addition of Alice Harding, APRN, the clinic is equipped to serve clients ages 14 and up who need both medication management and counseling services. Over the past several months, the world has heard Pope Francis encouraging compassion for all those who are suffering. In a recent article in Psychology Today, Psychologist Lloyd Sederer writes about the message of looking past stigmas associated with many forms of suffering, and the relevance this message holds for the field of mental health. “As a psychiatrist, I think Pope Francis’ message resonates with what is becoming a prevailing ethos

of good mental health care – a belief that everyone has promise, can recover and rebuild from life’s misfortunes, and should be able to have what we all want, namely the warmth of relationships, the safety of home, the experience of community, and the dignity of being able to contribute to society.” At Catholic Charities Diocese of Norwich, it is our mission to provide compassionate services to those in need- and this could not apply more directly than in the daily work at the behavioral health

clinic. The therapists and doctors at Catholic Charities Diocese of Norwich are trained to treat their clients with dignity and respect,

and they indeed embody this concept every day. In his article, Dr. Sederer emphasizes that, “Francis’ message is clear: as people and institutions, we need to be welcoming (not judging)… serve those in need (the wounded), and practice what we preach… Recovery means sustaining hope, inclusion, finding strengths, building

resilience, and valuing, most of all, the patient’s needs and wishes first.” Catholic Charities Behavioral Health Clinic exists to do just this. Here, the resources for those who need individual counseling, marriage therapy, and/or group therapy are available in the most confidential and hopeful ways possible. Our counselors are now accepting patients. If you or anyone you know is seeking help for issues including anxiety, depression, domestic violence, addiction, or other mental health related struggles, please visit our website or call 860.889.8346 for more information.

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Four County Catholic June 2014

2014 Walk Against Hunger Notre Dame and St. Colman Churches participated in the 2014 Walk Against Hunger held in May. The two parishes raised in excess of $1,200 and more was expected. The benefiting organization is St. Vincent de Paul Middletown. Foodshare is the parent organ-

ization which organized the Walk, but St. Vincent de Paul Middletown is the organization the parishes chose to benefit from our participation. SVDM will receive 80% of the total raised by Notre Dame and St. Colman and many other organizations on their behalf. Al-

D.R.E. NEEDED

though it is too soon to know final totals, Bob Walsh, Chair of the SVDM Walk, reports that he is optimistic that the effort will have raised at least as much as we did in 2013 which was $46,600. This was truly a cooperative effort of our two yoked church communities.

St. Sebastian Church in Middletown is looking for a D.R.E (part-time) for this upcoming catechetical year. Those who are interested may apply by sending a resume to the Parish office: St. Sebastian Church 155 Washington Street Middletown, CT-06457 Email: church6892@att.net Fax: 860-347-6736

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Four County Catholic June 2014

Celebrating the Life of Jesus St. Andrew Church 10th Annual Passion Play By Barbara Musinski

disciples have appeared at St. Andrew Church in Colchester, on Palm Sunday weekend, to tell the story of the birth, life, death and resurrection of Jesus Christ, in the church’s annual production of the “Passion Play.” Since the very first performance in 2005, Colleen Puscas, Director of music at St Andrew church, has crafted an original script, based upon the four Gospel accounts, and has selected powerful, appropriate music to be sung by a carefully hand-picked cast averaging over 140 performers. This year’s soldout performances on Friday, April 11th and Saturday, April 12th resulted in standing ovations from an awe-struck audience. For them, cheering and vigorous applause was not enough: people attending the performance began singing with the cast, not only during the grand finale but also while the performers exited the stage. Arriving at the point of this year’s final performance was not at all a smooth ride. Multiple daunting obstacles arose, but were seemingly miraculously resolved. The first challenge was the difficult search to replace Bill Watson,

a multi-talented St Andrew parishioner who had portrayed Jesus the previous nine years. The search for “a new Jesus” ended only weeks prior to this year’s first rehearsal. Passion play production team members had prayed diligently for God’s “providence”-that the Lord would send a new person to play the part of Jesus. And provide the Lord did: from “Providence” Rhode Island, none the less. Even though he would have to travel over 170 miles round trip from Providence to Colchester, Edward (Ed) Benjamin, III accepted the part of Jesus, and began commuting countless nights for rehearsals, successfully and impressively stepping into this most difficult and demanding part, and bringing substantial experience to the leading role. Having portrayed Jesus in productions of “Jesus Christ Superstar” and “Godspell,” Mr Benjamin was very aware of the challenge he faced: not only acting the part of Jesus, but relaying the life, heart, and message of Jesus to an audience. Unexpected circumstances also

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forced the previous director of the passion play to step down the week before rehearsals began. Once again, God provided. Within one and one half hours of learning that our previous director would be unable to continue; noted area director, Erin SousaSt a n l e y,

agreed to step in. A teacher of theater, voice and dance at her own performing arts school, Ms SousaStanley capably directed and choreographed the Passion Play, even displaying her own acting and vocal skills by assuming one of the roles in the production. The majority of passionate and dedicated cast members were parishioners of St. Andrew. However, the popularity of the St. Andrew “Passion Play” over the years

has begun to draw people from neighborhood churches and towns, and from the Dioceses of Norwich, Hartford, and Bridgeport. The age of participants in this play has ranged from three months old to age eighty five, some people having been part of this “Passion Play” for all ten years of its existence! This includes some of those essential “behind the scenes” personnel who sing as choir members or do costuming, stage construction, lights, sound, props, program creation, communication, and publicity. Some may argue that they already know the story of Jesus. “Why do I need to go to a ‘Pas-

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For the tenth consecutive year, angels, shepherds, Pharisees, Roman guards, and all manner of

sion Play? I know the story, the plot, and the conclusion.” Granted, most people have a general familiarity with the story of Jesus. However, a “Passion Play” can become a powerful, personal refresher course in the life of Christ, putting flesh onto words from the Bible. A “prayer” of this nature can serve as a path toward deepening one’s own relationship with Christ. Many who have attended the Passion Play have said that their faith was strengthened upon seeing the play – so much so that they have returned to prayer, some even returning to the Church for the first time in many years. Children who have played a part – no matter how small – have come to know Jesus and their faith in a unique and enjoyable way. (Most can’t wait to do it again next year!) And … this year someone was overheard saying that the finale song (“Following Jesus”) could easily become our church’s theme song as we all leave Mass on Sunday. Not sure that you’d like to make a trip to St. Andrew in 2015 to see the play for yourself? Just speak to someone who attended the “Passion Play” at St. Andrew Parish Palm Sunday weekend in April of 2014!

Four County Catholic June 2014

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Four County Catholic June 2014

What You Should Know Defending Religious Liberty The Catholic Church is not asking for special treatment when it comes to the federal healthcare mandate, she is simply asking that every Americanâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s right to religious freedom be protected. This right is not only about our ability to go to Mass on Sunday, or to pray the Rosary at home. It is about adhering to the tenets of our faith, so that we can contribute to the common good of all Americans. If you havenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t done so already, please voice your opposition to the mandate by calling President Obama at the White House at 202-456-1111 or the U.S. Department of Health and Human Services at 202-205-5445. Let them know that the mandate is in violation of our First Amendment right to religious freedom.

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You should know that on Monday May 5, 2014, the Unites States Supreme Court of America ruled By Senator Rev. RubĂŠn DĂaz District 32 Bronx County, New York

in favor of a case established by a small town called Greece in upstate New York. This case was known as â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Case of the Town of Greece v. Galloway,â&#x20AC;? and it was in regards to prayers offered at public legislative meetings. You should know that this was a ruling of immense importance to religious organizations in America, and for the many people like us who have been fighting many years to bring prayer back to schools and to different public places. At the same time, it was a great defeat and setback for those who promote political correctness and for those who oppose prayer basing their opposition in not wanting to offend anyone. Because of the importance of this news and what it means to

many of us, I would like to quote two paragraphs written by Rev. Jason J. McGuire, Executive Director of New Yorkers for Constitutional Freedoms: â&#x20AC;&#x153;The Supreme Courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision today is important and muchneeded, as it protects the religious liberty of all Americans and upholds the quintessentially American tradition of prayer at government proceedings. The Courtâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s ruling clarifies once again that commencing government proceedings with prayer does not constitute an â&#x20AC;&#x2DC;establishment of religionâ&#x20AC;&#x2122; in violation of the First Amendment. Further, the Court has reminded Americans that governing bodies which allow public prayer are not required to edit or regulate the content of the prayers that are offered, to go beyond the borders of their cities or towns to recruit a religiously diverse pool of prayer-givers, or to guarantee that no listeners are offended by what they hear during such prayers. So

long as prayers at public meetings do not fall into a pattern of proselytizing others or denigrating different faiths, they do not violate the First Amendment.â&#x20AC;? â&#x20AC;&#x153;Todayâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s decision is a victory for the free exercise of religion, for freedom of speech, and for freedom from judicial overreach. All Americans who believe that prayer and religious faith play a key role in our society should celebrate. All Christians should be thankful that our Supreme Courtâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;unlike the Second Circuit Court of Appealsâ&#x20AC;&#x201D;has not given in to the voices of censorship and political correctness that would prevent us from praying in the name of Jesus in city, town, and village halls across the nation. And the Town of Greece and its legal counsel are to be commended for their perseverance in seeing this case through to its conclusion.â&#x20AC;? How sweet it is, how great it is! Viva the Freedom of Speech and Viva the Freedom of Religion!

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Four County Catholic June 2014

US Bishop: Broken Laws – Not Immigrants – Must Change Washington D.C., May 29, 2014 / 05:12 pm (CNA/EWTN News).- The desperation of many By Adelaide Mena Catholic News Association

immigrants who have no choice but to break existing U.S. laws shows the need for comprehensive immigration reform, said the head of the U.S. bishops’ migration efforts. Bishop Eusebio L. Elizondo, auxiliary bishop of Seattle and chairman of the U.S. Bishops’ Committee on Migration, told CNA that while some migrants break U.S. immigration laws to enter and work in the country, their worth as “my brothers and sisters” is not diminished. “There are many things that are lawful that are immoral,” he noted, adding that simply because an action “is unlawful doesn’t mean it is immoral.” The bishop explained that a wide array of circumstances place people in a situation where they are forced to break the law in order to provide for their families, and that this situation calls for a change in the laws to reflect what is moral and just. Bishop Elizondo spoke to CNA after a May 29 Mass at St. Peter’s Catholic Church on Capitol Hill. The Mass was held by a group of bishops from across the U.S. who had come to speak up about the importance of reforming current immigration policies. Lawmakers and leaders of faith, business and labor groups were invited to the Mass, which was offered for immigrants and their families who have been separated from one another as a result of current U.S. immigration policy. “When laws fail to advance the common good, they can and they should be changed,” said Archbishop Thomas G. Wenski of Miami, who delivered the homily. Reflecting on the parable of the Good Samaritan, he explained that laws “must take into account both human dignity and the national interest.” Current U.S. immigration laws are “ill adapted” to the challenges of today, the archbishop said. Also at the Mass were Bishop

Gerald F. Kicanas of Tucson, Ariz., Auxiliary Bishop Martin D. Holley of Washington, D.C., and Bishops Oscar Cantu and Emeritus Ricardo Ramirez of Las Cruces, N.M. Before the Mass, the bishops met with young people who were brought to the United States by their parents when they were children. Known as “DREAMers,” these individuals have grown up in the U.S., but many face a wide array of challenges due to their family’s lack of documentation. Afterwards, the bishops met with several members of the House of Representatives, including Speaker of the House John Boehner (R-Ohio). During a press conference after the Mass, they said that they are also working to ask U.S. President Barack Obama to issue an executive order so that immigrant families can more easily stay together. The May 29 Mass was part of the bishops’ larger Mission for Migrants. Last month, a group of bishops visited the U.S.-Mexico border to say Mass in remembrance of migrants who died during their journey to cross it. Momentum behind immigration reform increased last year as a bipartisan “Gang of Eight” senators worked together to introduce legislation aimed at both providing a path to citizenship for undocumented immigrants and securing the U.S. border. In June 2013, the Senate approved the bill in a bipartisan 68-32 vote. However, it stalled in the House of Representatives. The U.S. bishops’ conference has laid out several goals for comprehensive immigration reform, including an “earned legalization program” with an “eventual path

to citizenship” for those who pass background checks and pay a fine, along with “targeted, proportional, and humane” enforcement measures. The conference has also called for a program to help low-skilled migrant workers to enter and work in the U.S. legally, as well as the restoration of due process protections for immigrants, an emphasis on family unification, and policy changes to address the deeper causes of immigration. Bishop Elizondo explained that the bishops’ conference is hoping to make the moral case for immigration reform during this “key moment for the government,” with the hope of enacting some sort of change before the end of the president’s term in January 2017. He called on Catholics to provide “testimony, witness” on behalf of migrant persons, emphasizing that “they have feelings, they have hopes and they have dreams,” as well as the potential to play a vital role within the U.S. Church. Archbishop Wenski pleaded for a change to the “broken” and “cynical” system, calling current laws a “stain on the soul of the nation” for their role in keeping “families separated for an intolerable length of time” and placing people who are trying to make a living in dangerous situations. In addition, the undocumented status of many families leads to the creation of “a new underclass” of people who lack access to the same legal structures and institutions as other residents, he said. “We’re asking Congress, the House, to act,” the archbishop said. “Laws are designed to the benefit – not the harm – of humankind.”

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National Call-In Day When? Why?

June 13, 2014 To ask our Representatives to support a just Immigration Reform

On May 29 we called our Representatives at their Washington office. Now, we want to call them at their Connecticut office – so they don’t forget that there is an urgent need for them to stand up and speak out for Comprehensive Immigration Reform.

Here’s how you do it: 1. Find your Representative from the list below: 2. Call him/her and give the following message: “Please vote for immigration reform that supports a path to citizenship, preserves family unity, and employs safe and humane immigration enforcement practices.”

That’s it! 5 minutes of your time to join us in the work for justice. Even if your Representative supports Immigration Reform, he/she still wants to hear from you. Make the call! If they have two numbers, call both numbers, please.

Connecticut U.S. Representatives: 1st District – North-Central CT Representative John Larson: 860-278-8888 2nd District- Eastern CT Representative Joe Courtney: 860-886-0139 & 860-741-6011 3rd District – Central CT Representative Rosa DeLauro: 203-562-3718 & 203-378-9005 4th District – Southwestern CT Representative Jim Himes: 866-453-0028 & 203-353-9400 5th District – Northwestern CT Representative Elizabeth Esty: 860-223-8412

Four County Catholic June 2014

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Four County Catholic June 2014

Internships, A Foot in the Door for Haitian Students It was a long time ago, but I still remember my first day working as an intern at a CPA firm in By Dennis Petruzzi Interim Management Team, Development & Education

New York City. I remember the gray flannel business suit and the wing tipped oxford shoes I was wearing. I remember too how nervous I was about making a good first impression and wanting to make the most of the opportunity that I was given. Then, as it is today, an internship meant a foot in the door and a better chance at getting a full time job in a chosen profession. That is why I was so excited to hear that for the first time in our Education Sponsorship Programâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s history, Erold Ezerbe, Outreach to Haitiâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s Education Director, had arranged eight internships for our post secondary students. This would be a chance for these eight students to prove the value of the grades listed on their college transcripts and the skills and attributes reflected on their resumes.

Ernso Vaincouer a Civil Engineering major is interning with SECOSA an international construction company building

schools and roads in Haiti. About internships, he says â&#x20AC;&#x153;Internships are another world compared to school, It is where I feel that I

am at the end of my dreams. If I could find a better word than â&#x20AC;&#x153;thanksâ&#x20AC;? I would offer it to Outreach to Haiti. This program is like an oasis in the desert.â&#x20AC;? Sp e a k i n g about her internship opportunity at internet provider Access Haiti, Benite Noel says â&#x20AC;&#x153;This program means a lot to me. It introduces me to the values of the society and even influences my behavior. Because of this opportunity, I am sure Iâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;ll become a person that I have never imagined beforeâ&#x20AC;?. Benite, a Marketing and Public Relations Major, is a natural leader who participates in planning meetings about her uni-

versityâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s future and heads up her internship group. Today, it strikes me that my long ago experiences as an intern, though separated by time and distance and distinguished by gray flannel and wing tipped shoes, is not all that different from the ex-

periences of these 2 students. Even in these trying economic times, young people in the United States are blessed with many more opportunities than those available to their young brothers and sisters in Haiti. But arenâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;t their dreams the same?

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Four County Catholic June 2014

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Saint Bernard School Graduates 55:

‘You Will Always Be Saints’ Norwich - The St. Bernard School graduation ceremonies Friday evening, By Judy Benson Reprint from The Day

St. Matthew Pre-School, Tolland 860-872-0200 www.stmatthewct.org St. Bernard Pre-School, Rockville 860-875-0753 x113 www.saintbernardchurch.org

May 30, marked not only a milestone for the 55 seniors, but also significant pas-

sages for two school faculty, Headmaster Thomas Doherty III and English teacher Arthur Lamoureux. “My time here has been amazing,” said Doherty, who came to the Uncasville school in 2011 and is credited with helping to stabilize finances and build enroll-

ment. Doherty announced in January that he would leave at the end of the academic year to take a job at a Catholic school closer to his home in Massachusetts. “Just remember,” he told the graduates, a cluster of crimson-and-gray caps and

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

Four County Catholic June 2014

with an honorary diploma, making him the 56th member of the Class of 2014. “It seems to me that if you go to high school for 50 years,” Doherty said, “you ought to have more than just one diploma.” The audience gave Lamoureux a standing ovation as he approached the altar to receive the diploma from Doherty. Student speaker Justin Bell of Mystic credited his time at St. Bernard with teaching him to value his passions and those of others. “I have learned that passion is not a flame, but a treasure,” he said. “St. Bernard has supplied me with a map to that treasure. This did not come from the course material I learned, or the grades I received. It came from the friends I’ve made, and the teachers I was lucky to have had.” The school, he said, gave him the tools to accomplish his goal of

making his mark on the world. “Thank you to all my friends, teachers and classmates for all you’ve given me,” he said. “It will not be wasted or forgotten.” The graduating seniors hailed from 22 Eastern Connecticut communities as well as two cities

in China. Two of the graduates came from Beijing, and one was from Taiyuan, part of a contingent of 34 international students at the school this year. After each student received his or her diploma, the bishop of Norwich, the Most Rev. Michael R. Cote, challenged them not to neglect their faith and to heed a message delivered by Pope Francis “to learn to be magnanimous.” “Magnanimity is the virtue of the great and the small,” Bishop Cote said. “It means to have a great heart, greatness of mind, great ideas and a wish to do great things in response to what God asks of us. It also means doing the routine, the little everyday things, with a great heart.”

Saint Ber Bernard nard School School Grades Gr ades 6 – 12 12 gowns in the front pews at the Cathedral of St. Patrick as their parents, siblings and grandparents filled the rest of the majestic space, “wherever you go, you will always

be Saints.” He concluded his remarks by presenting Lamoureux, who graduated from St. Bernard in 1962 and then taught there for 46 years,

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Four County Catholic June 2014

How the Son of a President Proved Himself Being the son of an American president comes with as many pressures as it does privileges, especially By Christina Capecchi Four County Catholic Contributor

when you’re his first boy and you bear his name. Theodore Roosevelt, Jr., felt that his dad, President Teddy Roosevelt, demanded more of him than of his three younger brothers. The boyhood levity expressed in his broad HowdyDoody smile, tanned skin and light eyes was never fully unhinged from

the weight of expectation. One day when Ted Jr. was about 9, his dad gave him a rifle. When he asked if it was real, his father loaded it and shot a bullet into the ceiling. It wasn’t long before the family faced the glare of the national spot-

light. Teddy Roosevelt began his presidency the day after Ted Jr.’s 14th birthday. Ted wasn’t the academic type,

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but he attended his dad’s alma mater, Harvard, and plodded along. After college Ted worked in the steel and carpet business and then became a branch manager of an investment bank. He was making good money and, it seemed, a name for h i m s e l f, yet he was badgered by questions of legacy and leadership, thoughts of the renegade who walked softly and carried a big stick. When World War I began, Ted felt compelled to leave his job and volunteer for service. He fought in several major battles and reached the rank of lieutenant colonel. The war refined the young father of three, filling him with newfound purpose. Back home, Ted enjoyed considerable political success until World War II beckoned and the 53-yearold returned to active duty. He was soon promoted and eventually became known as a general who often visited the front lines.

When D-Day neared, Ted was not assigned to the front lines, which he argued

several times and then formally petitioned, writing: “I believe I can contribute materially…by going in with the assault companies. Furthermore, I personally know both officers and men of these advance units and be-

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lieve that it will steady them to know that I am with them.” At 56, Ted became the oldest man in the Normandy invasion. He was the only general on D-Day to land by sea with the first wave of troops. He was also the only man to serve with his son on D-Day. Ted was one of the first soldiers off his landing craft at Utah Beach early on that first Thursday in June. He skillfully redirected the men when he realized they had landed more than a mile south of their target, maneuvering the beach with a cane and a pistol. He didn’t appear deterred by his arthritis and heart troubles when he declared, “We’ll start the war from right here!” As June pressed on, Ted guided his troops and kept them calm, reciting poetry and sharing stories about his father. He died of a heart attack five weeks after D-Day, shortly after being captured by Germans. I think of his story this month, as we mark D-Day’s 70th anniversary. I imagine the Hail Marys chanted as 20-year-old men neared Normandy, feeling the spray of the English Channel. They responded to the terror in their hearts with prayer. “I am not a religious man,” Lieutenant Colonel Robert Lee Wolverton told his battalion hours before the D-Day parachute dropped them behind enemy lines. “But I am going to ask you to pray with me for the success of the mission before us. And while we pray, let us get on our knees and not look down but up with faces raised to the sky so that we can see God and ask his blessing in what we are about to do.” Seven decades later we salute these men. At the heart of their bravery was belief. We honor their memory, and we look up. Christina Capecchi is a freelance writer from Inver Grove Heights, Minn., and editor of SisterStory.org, the official website of National Catholic Sisters Week.

Four County Catholic June 2014

Top Students from Connecticut are Recognized by Johns Hopkins University for Academic Excellence

Baltimore - Payton Noe of East Lyme, a student at Sacred Heart, Groton, CT Parochial School, was recently honored as one of the brightest young students in the nation at a regional awards ceremony for academically advanced children

sponsored by The Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth (CTY). The Center honored Payton, a participant in the CTY Talent Search, for her exceptional performance on a rigorous, above-grade-

level test given to academically talented second-through-eighth-grade students. As part of the CTY Talent Search, which is going on now, advanced young learners take above-grade level tests that CTY has used for years to spot academic talent and reveal gaps between a child’s academic program and his or her actual capacity for learning. Seventh and eighth graders take the SAT or ACT—the same tests used for college admissions. These students, along with second through sixth graders, can take the School and College Ability Test (SCAT), an above-level test. Payton, was one of more than 38,000 students from over 120 countries who participated in the CTY Talent Search. Because of the difficulty of the tests, only about 30 percent of students who participated earned an invitation to a CTY Awards Ceremony where they are individually honored for their aca-

demic performance and potential. Most students honored in 2014 CTY Awards Ceremonies also qualified academically for CTY’s summer courses and online classes. “The CTY awards ceremony congratulates students for their academic achievement, and it recognizes the defining roles that parents, educators, and others play in developing the academic talents of our outstanding honorees,” said Elaine Tuttle Hansen, executive director of CTY. “For these advanced learners, as with all children, there should be no gap between their capabilities and the opportunities open to them.” This spring, some 9,700 CTY Talent Search honorees were invited to participate in 43 CTY Awards

Ceremonies across the county, and one in Hong Kong. Payton received her award May 4, 2014 at Bryant University in Smithfield, Rhode Island. About The Johns Hopkins University Center for Talented Youth (CTY) A global leader in gifted education since 1979, CTY is focused on recognizing academic talent in exceptional K-12 students and supporting their growth with courses, services, and resources specifically designed to meet their needs. Education Week called CTY “one of a set of remarkable nonpublic institutions dedicated to the discovery and nurture of the most talented young people for the highest levels of accomplishment.”

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We are pleased to announce this new and unique retreat experience beginning Memorial Day Weekend. With 3 distinct rooms to choose from, Enders House offers a private, comfortable stay -- perfect for a weekend or longer getaway. Our commitment is to make every moment with us memorable: whether you choose The Bishop’s Suite, the Canterbury Room or Pontigny Room, our breathtaking views and exquisite meals will leave you feeling refreshed. All are welcome to enjoy the peace, serenity and natural beauty of Enders Island. Nestled in Fishers Island Sound, Enders Island is a place of great beauty, solace and peace. Our grounds, with a wide variety of trees, shrubs, walkways, gardens and seasonal lowers, also have many shrines, outdoor Stations of the Cross and an outdoor Shrine on the water. Our magni icent Lady of the Assumption Chapel is a showcase of sacred art and the spiritual heart of our ministry where you may wish to attend daily Mass each morning. The St. Edmund’s staff extends their hospitality to create a serene setting that accommodates your needs and allows for a relaxing and spiritually enriching experience. We have saved a place for you!

Call for rates – and please ask for details about our newest retreat experience.

Danube River Cruise June 8 – 17, 2015 Spiritual Director: Fr. Tom Hoar, SSE Immerse Yourself in Culture, Spirituality and Beauty Spend 2 nights in Prague, then enjoy a fascinating 7-night cruise from Vilshofen to Budapest. Join Father Tom as he leads us in prayer and re lection along the way. There will be opportunity for Daily Mass. Please call our Mission Advancement Of ice for more details and trip cost:

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Four County Catholic June 2014

My Life-Changing Trip to Nicaragua Before going on this mission trip to Nicaragua, I was reserved with showing my emotions. I By Michalene Lee Sophomore, Saint Bernard School

would always hold back, especially if it was around someone with a disability. I knew I would have to get over this obstacle, but I didn’t know when or how. The first four days of being in Ni c a r a g u a were intense and yet I still hadn’t had any of those “lifechanging” experiences that people always talk about when they go on a mission trip. It wasn’t until Thursday, however, that I met Santos and my world was rocked. Santos is 15, the same age as me, and has to use crutches as his right leg is severely deformed and he cannot walk. Santos definitely is a little rough around the edges and

is most certainly a “macho” man. Despite his hard shell, he has a huge heart and looked out for his

the kids, I felt God pushing me to embrace and love them more. Because even though I sometimes can’t love through the dirt and the smells, God can. I saw God’s unstoppable, unbiased, unquenchable, furiously unconditional love in every single kid that week, and I learned to love the same. Michalene Lee is a sophomore at Saint Bernard School. She resides in Griswold with her mom & dad. She traveled to Nicaragua during Holy Week with 13 other students and 2 chaperones where they served the orphaned and disabled children of Mustard Seed Communities at Hogar Belen Managua & Diriamba.

friends. B u t m o s t importantly, he taught me what it means to love unconditionally. He taught me to look past the crutches, the scars, the language barrier, and to simply run up to him, hold him tight, and say “My big man!” And every time I wanted to pull back from Santos, or from any one of

Annual May Crowning Spring is Here! On May 21, 2014 St. Patrick’s Cathedral School held their an-

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nual May Crowning of the Blessed Virgin Mary. The entire school was on hand to pay homage to Mary as Queen of heaven and earth. Second

grader Ava Gilmore was chosen to crown Mary, while the rest of the children at St. Patrick’s were assigned a very simple but very important role in the procession: bringing one flower to place at Mary’s feet. Joy and love filled the air as the children sang Immaculate Mary and Hail,

Holy Queen. The May Crowning marks a new spiritual season. Our Mary, Queen of heaven and earth, lifted us right out of the last, long, cold days of winter and firmly planted our hearts in the warm and promising soil of spring. The promise of everything made anew.

Four County Catholic June 2014

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As announced by Bishop Cote on June 3, 2014, Mr. Donald Macrino has been selected to serve as the interim Head of School at St. Bernard School, effective July 1, 2014 through June 30, 2015. Mr. Macrino, well known to the Diocese of Norwich family, has extensive experience in curriculum development on both the middle school and high school levels. His strong background in teacher supervision and evaluation as well as facilities planning will serve St. Bernard’s well as it launches a new strategic plan and seeks the support of the wider St. Bernard School community. A native of New London, Don has served as a teacher of English and dean of students at New London High School and assistant principal of Clark Middle School in Waterford. From 1997 through

2013, Mr. Macrino was principal of Waterford High School and retired from that position. Most recently, Mr. Macrino filled interim principal positions at Veteran’s Memorial School in Norwich and Wheeler Middle School and High School in North Stonington. Mr. Macrino has received the highest honor the Catholic Church can bestow upon a member of the laity, the Pro Ecclesia et Ponticice Medal. He also received recognition as the 2008 Connecticut Principal of the Year, has served as chair of the Diocesan Review Board and is a former

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Four County Catholic June 2014

Did You Know? National Zoo and Aquarium month so visit a zoo, read about Noah’s Ark in Genesis 9, and be kind to creatures. June 14 Flag Day so wear red, white, and blue and pray for America today. June 21 National Daylight Appreciation Day for the longest day of the year. Stay up a little later and celebrate that God created light. Read how there will be no need for the sun or stars in the future in Revelation 21:23 because God is our light. June 29 Feast of St. Peter and Paul. They worked hard to tell the world about Jesus and eternal life. Paul wrote most of the letters in the New Testament and Peter wrote two letters. Read from some of the letters by these saints this week.

by Karen H Whiting

Three Special Days in June Father’s Day word scramble June 19th is Father’s Day! Do something special for your dad. Give him a big hug, too. Unscramble the names of these famous fathers in the Bible.

1. King David’s father

SSEJE

2. Father of apostles John and James

EEDEEBZ (Matthew 4:21)

3. Called Mark his son

TEERP (1 Peter 5:13)

4. The first father

MAAD (Genesis 4:1-2)

5. Father of Isaac

HBAMARA (Genesis 21:2)

6. Foster father of Jesus

EPHSJO (Matthew 1:18-25)

7. Father of all believers

DGO (John 1:12-13)

8. Father of twelve tribes of Israel

CBAOJ (Genesis35:22-26)

9. Father of John the Baptist

AHAICARSZ (Luke 1Luke 1:57-62)

10. Father of King Solomon

DDAIV (1 Kings 2:1-3,12)

11. Father with a big boat

ONAH (Genesis 7:13)

12. Father who led people out of Egypt

SSEMO (Exodus 2:22)

Answer key: 1. Jesse 2. Zebedee 3. Peter 4. Adam 5. Abraham 6. Joseph 7. God 8. Jacob 9. Zacharias 10. David 11. Noah 12. Moses

Pentecost on June 8th comes 50 days after Easter and celebrates the beginning of the church. Did you know it’s also one of three special days in June this year? The other two are the Feast of Corpus Christi on June 19th (Corpus Christi means the body of Christ) and Holy Trinity Sunday on June 15th. Many churches celebrate Pentecost and ask people to wear red. It’s the day Jesus sent His Holy Spirit to the apostles. Swoosh! They heard the wind and saw fiery tongues land on each person’s head. The spirit filled their hearts and they began to preach about Jesus. Light a red candle at meals this week (or tie a red bow around a candle). Read and talk about the Holy Spirit each day. Here are some Bible verse to read: Acts 1:8, Acts 2, John 14:26, Acts 9:31, Galatians 5:22-231, and 1Corinthians 2:10-13. Corpus Christi means the body of Christ. It’s a day to be thankful for the gift of Communion, the Eucharist. It’s a great time to talk about the Eucharist and what it means. Celebrate with an agape meal of bread and grapes. Read what St. Paul said about Eucharist in 1 Corinthians 10:16-17 and 11:23-27. Make the sign of the cross. That’s a reminder of the Holy Trinity and our belief in three persons in one God: the Father, the Son, and the Holy Spirit. To celebrate Holy Trinity Sunday, make a trinity pyramid. Cut the solid lines and fold on the dotted lines to form a pyramid. Write name of one person of the trinity on each triangle side (God the Father, God the Son, God the Holy Spirit). Fold in the rectangle tab and glue or tape it inside to hold the pyramid together.

Four County Catholic June 2014

On Last Morning in Holy Land, Pope Reaches Out to Muslims, Jews Jerusalem (CNS) - Pope Francis spent the last morning of his three-day pilgrimage to the Holy Land meeting with Muslims and Jews and calling for closer relations among the three major monotheistic religions as the basis for peace in the region. At his first appearance May 26, Pope Francis toured the Dome of the Rock on the Temple Mount, sacred to Muslims as the place from which Mohammed ascended to heaven, and spoke to Muslim leaders. Addressing his listeners as “brothers” -- rather than “friends,” as indicated in his prepared text -- the pope pointed to Abraham as a common model for Muslims, Jews and Christians, since he was a pilgrim who left “his own people and his own house in order to em-

bark on that spiritual journey to which God called him.” “We must constantly be prepared to go out from ourselves, docile to God’s call,” especially “his summons to work for peace and justice, to implore these gifts in prayer and to learn from on high mercy, magnanimity and compassion,” the pope said. In his remarks to the pope, the grand mufti of Jerusalem, Muhammad Ahmad Hussein, accused Israel of impeding Muslims’ access to Jerusalem’s holy sites. Pope Francis then visited the Western Wall, the only standing part of the foundation of the Second Temple, destroyed in 70 A.D. The pope stood for more than a minute and a half with his right hand against the wall, most of the time in silent prayer, before reciting the Our Father. Then he followed custom by leaving a written message inside a crack between two blocks. Rabbi Abraham Skorka, a longtime friend of the pope from

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Buenos Aires and an official member of the papal entourage, said the pope’s message contained the text of the Our Father and of the 122nd Psalm, traditionally prayed by Jewish pilgrims who travel to Jerusalem. Stepping away from the wall, the pope simultaneously embraced Rabbi Skorka and Omar Abboud, a Muslim leader from Buenos Aires and a member of the papal entourage. “We did it,” Rabbi Skorka said he told the pope and Abboud. The pope also visited a memorial to victims of terrorism, a stop that had not appeared on his original itinerary. It was added at the request of Israeli authorities, in reaction to his spontaneous decision the previous day to pray at Israel’s separation barrier in the West Bank. The separation wall, which Israel says it needs to protect itself from terrorism, has been a target of Palestinian protests and international condemnation. At the terrorism memorial, the pope prayed with his hand against the stone, the same gesture he used at the separation wall and at the Western Wall. Following a brief wreath-laying at the grave of Theodor Herzl, father of the Zionist movement that led to Israel’s founding, Pope Francis visited the Yad Vashem Memorial to victims of the Holocaust. There he greeted half a dozen survivors of the Nazi genocide, kissing their hands in honor. “He took my hand in his two hands and kissed my hand. I was dumbfounded. I never had a rabbi do that,” Joe Gottdenker of Toronto told Catholic News Service. Gottdenker, who was rescued

Four County Catholic June 2014

as a baby by a Polish Catholic couple, said he “was moved much more than I had even anticipated.” In his remarks at Yad Vashem, the pope echoed and elaborated on God’s words to Adam after the fall, asking: “Who convinced you that you were god? Not only did you torture and kill your brothers and sisters, but you sacrificed them to yourself, because you made yourself a god.” “Grant us the grace to be ashamed of what we men have done,” the pope prayed, “to be ashamed of this massive idolatry, of having despised and destroyed our own flesh which you formed from the earth, to which you gave life with your own breath of life.” Pope Francis’ next stop was a visit to the two chief rabbis of Israel, leaders of the country’s Sephardic and Ashkenazi communities. The pope told them that relations between Jews and Catholics had progressed greatly in the half century since the Second Vatican Council, which declared that Jews were not collectively responsible for the death of Jesus and that God’s covenant with them had never been abrogated. Pope Francis called on Christians and Jews to develop greater appreciation for their common “spiritual heritage,” through deeper knowledge of each other’s faith, especially among the young. Even by the standard of his densely packed Holy Land trip, the pope’s morning was especially busy, and he soon fell behind schedule. Many other Jerusalem residents found themselves in the same situation, as streets cleared to facilitate the pope’s movements caused traffic jams across the city. His public appearances for the morning ended with a visit to President Shimon Peres at his official residence, where the pope greeted and blessed a group of children with cancer and planted an olive tree in the garden as a symbol of peace. The pope told Peres that he wanted to “invent a new beatitude, which I apply to myself, ‘Blessed is the one welcomed into the home of a wise and good man.’” It was only the latest sign of the pope’s friendship with Peres, who invited him to Israel shortly after

the start of his pontificate. At Yad Vashem, the pope greeted other dignitaries with a handshake but gave the president a warm embrace. In his address at the presidential palace, Pope Francis praised Peres as a “man of peace and a peacemaker,” and, as the pope had done the previous day to Palestinian President Mahmoud Abbas, asked that “all parties avoid initiatives and actions which contradict their stated determination” to end the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The pope also stressed the “universal and cultural significance” of Jerusalem, and its importance to Christians, Muslims and Jews. “How good it is when pilgrims and residents enjoy free access to the holy places and can freely take part in religious celebrations,” he said. As in his speeches to Abbas and to the king of Jordan over the previous two days, Pope Francis also spoke up for the local Christian community, telling Peres its members wished to “contribute to the common good and the growth of peace,” and thus deserved to be “full-fledged citizens” of Israel.

First Positive Conclusions Regarding the Holy See Report for the Convention Against Torture Vatican City (VIS) – The Committee for the Convention Against Torture (CAT) has released an advance unedited version of its Concluding Observations on the Initial Report of the Holy See. These Observations recognise that the Holy See has made many serious and substantial reforms on its procedures that further advance the principles and objectives of the CAT. The Concluding Observations acknowledge extensively the good faith efforts of the Holy See to comply with and advance the CAT, to institute reforms to prevent sexual abuse, and to compensate and facilitate the care and healing of the victims of sexual abuse. The report states that the Committee did not find the Holy See in violation of the CAT, and acknowledges that the Holy See and Catholic dioceses and religious orders have instituted important efforts to prevent sexual abuse. The Committee appreciates the open and constructive dialogue with the high-level delegation of the Holy See and notes that many Catholic dioceses and religious orders have provided financial settlements to victims of sexual abuse. Finally, the Conclusions do not assert that the Church’s efforts to protect the unborn are a form of torture or cruel, inhuman or degrading treatment or punishment under the CAT, thus safeguarding the fundamental human right of freedom of religion and opinion and the protection and promotion of human life.

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